Washburn Review: January 16, 2019 -Issue 14

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January 16, 2019

Volume 145, Issue 14

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Washburn begins new Themester initiative To start off the year, Washburn is kicking off the spring semester with a new initiative called Themester.

In May of 2018, the Academic Diversity & Inclusion Committee had a brainstorming session to discuss how to connect all the various conversations of diversity and inclusion happening in different parts of campus.

The committee is made up of faculty and student representatives from areas all across campus that are committed to diversity and inclusion at Washburn.

Kara Kendall-Morwick, an English professor at Washburn and member of the Academic Diversity & Inclusion Committee, brought up the idea of Themester. The idea originated from Indiana University when Kendall-Morwick was working on her Ph.D. Indiana began Themester in 2009 to bring big issues to the surface. Indiana introduces the theme in the spring to build up interest for the fall semester’s special courses and events. While the idea was brought from Indiana, other universities have been doing Themester all over the country.

The theme for spring 2019 Themester is Freedom of Speech and Expression. “[The theme] is at the core of what the university does or should do. It is at the root of intellectual inquiry and the production of knowledge and we need to teach our students the importance of that. Addressing this topic teaches students to think about why freedom of speech is important and think about how to use their freedom of speech in constructive, responsible ways,” Kelly Erby, history professor and chair of the Academic Diversity & Inclusion Committee, said.

The Academic Diversity & Inclusion Committee worked to implement programming that would appeal to everyone.

“I’ve been really excited by all the support we have gotten,” Erby said. “It is really amazing to see so many disciplines and departments get involved. Students should expect to find something that appeals to them and be useful for their education no matter what major they are or what their career goal is.”

The Academic Diversity & Inclusion Committee has been putting together panels, film screenings, guest lectures, talks in the Union Underground and more.

Along with programming events, there are five special courses offered this semester in four areas including arts, English, history and philosophy.

One of the courses is called Banned Books and Films and is taught by Kendall-Morwick. There are 22 students enrolled in the class and it is cross-listed as a 100 level general education course, a 200 level honors course and a 300 level English elective.

“It means I get to teach some texts that don’t normally fall under my purview with classes I teach. I don’t ordinarily teach a lot of film so I’m excited to teach some new things and learn more myself about this topic,” Kendall-Morwick said.

While there are few special courses for Themester, many professors are planning on implementing topics that pertain to the theme.

“I am really excited about Themester.

My class this morning was Academic Reading and Research, a 100 level course, and it’s not specifically a Themester class but I’m integrating that theme in key ways,” Kendall-Morwick said.

The university is also participating by hosting a special designation Apeiron for Themester.

Students

doing projects for a Themester related course or another class with a topic relevant to the theme can participate.

The Academic Diversity & Inclusion Committee hopes that every student can grow and learn from Themester events and programs.

Students interested in events and how Themester is impacting campus can go to https://washburn.edu/ diversity/Themester.html.

If any student organization sees a way of connecting something they want to do, contact Kelly Erby, Kara Kendall-Morwick or anyone on the Academic Diversity & Inclusion Committee.

Michael Russell: Approachable professor cares about the success of college students Samuel Cox Washburn Review samuel.cox@washburn.edu

Michael Russell is a professor of psychology and the director of the Scholarly Creative WTE Program at Washburn University.

“In the 18 years I have been at Washburn University, I still think this is the best institution in the country. We have great faculty, our focus is strictly on the students and their success. We have an incredibly supportive administration. We are supported by the state. This is by far the best institution I have ever seen.”

Russell received a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Master of Arts in Child and Developmental Psychology and a Ph.D in Experimental Psychology all from the University of Connecticut.

Russell began his career at WU in the fall of 2001 after teaching at Bucknell University and Kutztown University which are both in Pennsylvania.

The comprehensive list of classes he has taught is quite long, but some major classes include Psychological Statistics, Sensation and Perception and Graduate Research Design. Of all the classes he has taught at Washburn, Psychological Statistics is one of his favorites.

“I love teaching a course where most, if not everyone, walks in saying, ‘I don’t want to take this course.’ They are afraid of math, but by the end of the semester they are no longer afraid of the math at

all.”

A favorite part of teaching for Russell is, “Getting students to think about things they have never though about before...Perception is always about interpretation.

Getting students to start thinking about the world in a different way or the things that they have taken for granted.”

All students struggle at some point in their college career.

Whether it is an assignment or class that takes persistence and practice to understand; or even a personal problem that can often cause havoc in students grades and involvement at school. It can often seem that teachers are too far removed from student life to be able to empathize with a work load or just not understanding a homework assignment.

For Professor Russell, however, this is not the case.

“First, I try to be as understanding as possible. I put myself in the student’s shoes, if I haven’t already been in those shoes. Next, is to be flexible. Most deadlines, I do not believe to be all that important. So most important is to just be understanding.”

Students can also often feel like a burden to their professors when they have question in or outside of class. They may not go to them for help because they feel help is an insignificant thing for the professor to have to make time in their busy schedule for. Professor Russell makes it a priority to be friendly and easy to talk to.

“I like students to think of me as approachable. If there is something wrong, they feel like they can come to me for help.”

Teachers have hopes and dreams for the future just like students do.

It can be a great way for students to see those older and wiser than them strive toward a better life.

Russell said, “My goals are to keep improving as a teacher, there is always room for improvement.

As director of the WTE program, I would love to have President Farley double the budget so we can send more students to conferences.

To be able to get all the equipment that they need to do their scholarly creative projects. I also would like to be more published and more well known as having made great contributions to my field.”

Not only are goals supposed to be scholarly, but personal goals impact every aspect of an individuals life.

When a professor as well known and loved as Professor Russell, it can have a great impact on the society at large.

“It seems nowadays, it’s a tough world and people aren’t getting along and I just think I could be a better person. I think I could be a better brother, better son, better uncle and better friend.”

Based on Russell’s positive outlook on life and his sincere commitment toward the welfare of every student, it is no surprise that he is the recipient of numerous awards of excellence and achievement. Not to mention he is also one of the high-

photo by Samuel Cox

Man in the Mirror: Michael Russell talks about the ways in which he can impact the student body for the better. Russell has taught at Washburn University for more than 18 years.

est rated professors on “Rate My Professor” at WU, a public forum for college professor reviews and ratings source based on individual student’s feedback.

In closing, Russell talked about the difference he can try to make in

the world.

“There’s a song by Michael Jackson called ‘Man in the Mirror’. I listen to that and realize if we all made the world just a little bit better, but we all really did it, the world would be a pretty amazing place.”

WU Ceramics

Photo Ops

2019 Music

WU Advocate

Prior Washburn faculty brings ceramics studio to North Topeka Arts District.

Looking for places to take photos? Here’s some art murals around Topeka for the best photo opportunities.

Check out up-and-coming music artists and artists to continue watching for 2019.

Caitlin Fuller, a Washburn cheerleader, advocates to improve overall health of others

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NEWS

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ARTS & LIVING

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FEATURES

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SPORTS

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NEWS

washburnreview.org

New plaza to appear in downtown Topeka Darby Toth

Washburn Review darby.toth@washburn.edu

In early January, Topeka is embracing new construction. Not the road construction that students see every time they drive to campus for class. Topeka is shifting its focus to a downtown gathering spot for the community.

The new Evergy Plaza will be available to the public in 2020, and it will contain a large performance stage, a digital screen, several programmed fountains and it will be able to be converted into an ice skating rink in the winter.

It will be located on the east side of the 600 block of Kansas Avenue.

Demolition is scheduled to begin on Jan. 10, but it will not be open to the public until March 2020.

President and CEO of Downtown Topeka Inc., Vince Frye, said that the estimated cost for the entire project ranges between $8 million and $9 million. Capitol Federal and Evergy both donated $2.5 million a piece. This donation makes up more than half of the required money for the plaza. Evergy is a product of Westar and KCP&L’s integration.

In addition to the donations made

by Capitol Federal and Evergy, other funds for the project were raised through a variety of different ways,

such as local businesses, private fundraising and Topeka Lodging Association.

The design of the Topeka plaza has been heavily based on successful plazas in Arizona and South Dakota. The CEO of Downtown Tucson Partnership, Kathleen Eriksen, warns us of the concerns in regards to the new plaza. Erikson was a first hand on the establishment of the plaza in Arizona that Topeka showed interest in. She said that simply building the plaza is not enough.

“Security and programming are essential to the upkeep and successfulness of the plaza in Tucson,” Eriksen said. “The same will be the case for Topeka.”

According to the South Dakota Main Street Square, which is the plaza they have shown great interest in, hosts over 200 events per year and has proven to be a destination that the whole family enjoys.

We can only hope that our beloved town will get to experience a community-oriented venue like this.

This new addition to the Topeka community is something that the local government has been pushing for some time now. With the hopes of revitalizing the city and bringing the community closer together, Evergy Plaza was born.

Marissa Wagner, freshman at

photo courtesy HTK Architects

Envisioning Evergy: The plaza is scheduled to open in March 2020. The cost has been estimated between $8 million and $9 million.

Washburn, is beyond excited that her hometown is taking strides toward improvement and growth.

“I am from Topeka. With that said, it is sometimes hard to find things

Former WU lecturer brings together community through ceramics studio Josey Trimble

Washburn Review josey.trimble@washburn.edu

In an effort to unite the Topeka community through Fire Me Up Ceramics & Fine Arts Studio LLC, former Washburn University professor Monette Mark has found an inspiring community of her own in the North Topeka Arts District.

After searching for the perfect place for her ceramics studio to call home, Mark bought the iconic Dr. Pepper building in the NOTO Arts District.

Shortly after securing her building in November, Mark hosted a conference for the Kansas Artists Craftsmen Association. The conference featured nationally recognized ceramics artist Patricia Sannit.

At this conference artists were able to attend workshops and collaborate on a statue that will be placed in NOTO. Mark said she was thrilled to involve locals in creating the parts of the statue, a community project that has already had so many hands touch it so soon after closing on the building.

The most rewarding aspect of opening her studio is the support she has received from the community. She has been given immense help from the neighboring stores and their owners, especially from Michael Bradley, co-owner of NOTO ArtsPlace. “[Bradley] has been a tremendous supporter and help and [has been] tirelessly helping me in this endeavor,” Mark said.

Mark plans to hold a ribbon cutting ceremony and opening party during the First Friday Art Walk at 6 p.m. Feb. 1. The opening will feature live music, art displays, food and lots of fun. Although the building’s renovations will not be finished by the ribbon cutting, ceramics classes will be starting, sending this community effort into full swing.

Mark will be teaching classes about throwing and hand-building techniques. Practice is highly im-

to do that are friendly for all ages.

Bringing something new to this city will be good for its citizens,” Wagner said. “I have no doubt that it will be very successful.”

The Evergy Plaza is the type of venue that the Topeka community is lacking. While there may be construction for the time being, hopefully it will be worth it in the end.

Briefs

Kansas City Restaurant Week

Jan. 11 - 20 Kansas City is hosting Restaurant Week. More than 200 of the most popular restaurants in Kansas City are serving multicourse meals at a lower price. Ten percent of sales from each meal benefit three local charities: Boys & Girl Club of Greater Kansas City, KC Regioinal Destination Development Foundation and the Greater KC Restaurant Association Educational Foundation.

PTKAW Hygiene Products Drive

Phi Theta Kappa Alumni of Washburn University is having a hygiene products drive Jan. 14 - Feb. 14. All of the collected items will be given to people in need in Shawnee, Pottawatomie and Wabunsee counties with the help of the Community Health Ministry.

PTKAW is looking for donations of new soap bars, shampoo and toothpaste tubes. There will be boxes for donations in the Living Learning Center lobby and Mabee Library by the main entrance.

Topeka Pilots vs. Odessa Jackalopes

7:05 p.m. Jan. 18, 7:05 p.m. Jan. 19 and 4:05 p.m. Jan. 20 the Topeka Pilots face off against the Odessa Jackalopes at the Kansas Expocentre. Tickets range from $10 to $16. Enjoy a local hockey game with friends. After the game Jan. 18, join the Pilots team, staff, and mascot Ace at HHB BBQ located at 906 S. Kansas Ave for a post game party.

Friends of the Library Book and Media Sale photo by Josey Trimble

Hard work pays off: Monette Mark showcases art at Fire Me Up Ceramics and Fine Arts Studios. The studio will have its official ribbon cutting ceremony at 6 p.m. Friday, February 2.

portant when learning the basics of ceramics which is why Mark set up the classes to last a six-week period.

“Learning to throw is like learning how to play an instrument. It takes practice,” Mark said.

She also plans on working with community groups such as home schools, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts to provide art education courses and help scouts earn badges.

In addition to long-term classes, Mark will be holding events such as workshops, wine tastings, date nights and even selling supplies such as 50-pound boxes of clay at reasonable prices.

Studio space has been completely booked since before the building was officially bought, but Fire Me Up Ceramics still has shelf space available for artists.

Recent Washburn graduate, Harvey Flowers, is renting studio space

and is excited about the opportunities available through Fire Me Up Ceramics.

“This space allows me to continue my work in ceramics,” Flowers said in a Facebook message. “Without this space I would have no access to clay, kilns and other materials.”

Flowers is also looking forward to collaborating with other artists and to learn from the community of ceramic artists who will share the same space.

When renovations to the bottom half of the building are complete, Mark plans to start working on the upstairs unit. In the spirit of fostering a sense of community, Mark would like to create the second floor of the building into apartments, and she looks forward to utilizing the apartments by creating an artist residency program to help support local artists.

9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Jan. 19 at Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library, come buy donated books, music and movies from the Friends of the Library to raise money for the library. Noon to 3 p.m.

Jan. 20, come fill a provided grocery sack for $10 at the Bag Sale.

Topeka Gun Show

9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Jan. 19 and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Jan. 20 visit the Kansas Expocentre for the Topeka Gun Show hosted by RK Shows.

RK Shows displays guns, hunting supplies, military surplus and outdoor gear to educate, answer questions and help individuals find what they are looking for.

Union Daze

Starting at 11 a.m. Jan. 22, get free Pepsi samples on the main level of the Memorial Union. 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Jan. 23 Coffee Talks takes place in the Union Underground discussing Themester and knowing the First amendment. 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Jan. 24 experience a Winter Wonderland on the main level of the union.

Topeka Symphony Orchestra

Who am I, and Where am I going? concert takes place at 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 19 at 2100 SE 29th St. in Topeka. Listen to poetry and prose responses to giant philosophical questions including Hansel and Gretel Prelude, Knoxville: Summer of 1915 and Symphony No. 4.

NEWS

January 16, 2019

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Government shutdown impacts the lower class DeyJa Cardenas

Washburn Review deyja.cardenas@washburn.eduu

Imagine if one social media post predicted yours and your family’s financial future.

Just before the government shutdown, President Trump tweeted, “If the Dems vote no, then there will be a shutdown for a very long time.”

President Trump’s tweet foreshadowed the impending shutdown that leaves over 800,000 Americans without paychecks. Assuming that the government will be up and running once again, only a portion of the government employees who are being affected by the government shutdown will be paid, some of them may not be paid at all.

In 2013, the government experienced a shutdown due to an insufficient amount of funds while trying to pass the Affordable Health Care Act. The Affordable Health Care Act is an equality bill for people who have an overflow of funds and were able to afford their own health care coverage. They were expected to pay for that, and simultaneously, that person would unconsciously be

helping someone less fortunate be able to obtain health care services.

However, the government shutdown of 2019 began after President Trump wanted to obtain funding for the border wall, which was promised in his 2016 presidential campaign. President Trump hopes that the wall will help reduce crime rate caused by illegal immigrants.

However, Balin Schneider, film major and liberal enthusiast, explained that he doesn’t believe it’s about the wall at all.

“I don’t think it’s about the wall, I think it’s deeper into things. A lot of people on the right think its deeper into racism and the people on the left are just apposing to it because its more or less about fighting with the republicans. It’s more than just the wall,” Schneider said. “It’s a deep rooted issue.”

A government shutdown occurs when the government must pass a budget to ensure that they have enough funding for a specific bill or department. This government shutdown was because congress has to send a budget for the president to approve and Trump denied

the budget that was given and asked for more money dedicated to border security.

Trump has been informed that the White House will soon run out of money if he doesn’t reopen the government, however, all the White House employees will be paid after the government shutdown has ended. The two-week shutdown of 2013 proved that families are negatively affected by government shutdowns. Most of these government employees are janitors, security guards and federal low-wage contractors.

The US Department of Agriculture announced that students who receive free-lunch services, families who receive WIC (women infants and children) and families photo by Morgan Holloway who receive food stamps (SNAP), ‘Risky Business’: Brown v. Board of Education is currently closed due to the governwill not be able to receive bene- ment shutdown. The National Park Service posted a sign on the door to park visitors fits if the government continues that any entry is at the risk of the vistor because there is no staff on hand. to be shut down through the next months, unless otherwise stated by tinued, “It makes it all the more abtwo months. These benefits are ac- the US Department of Agriculture. surd that this shutdown, is that there tively being used by single parent Jackson Woods, president of the are Federal employees and constudents at Washburn University Washburn University Democrats tractors, hundreds and thousands and will continue to be accessible stated, “The government shutdown of them, that aren’t being paid for for those who have them until the is something that shouldn’t be hap- food or gas or anything in the midfunds run out in approximately two pening in the first place.” He con- dle of winter.”

infographic by Sarah Miller

Kansas discrimination laws affect LGBTQ+ students Sarah Miller Washburn Review sarah.miller6@washburn.edu

There are many diverse people on Washburn’s campus. Each person who sets foot on campus has their own story, struggles and identity but everyone has the same goal, to graduate and find a fulfilling career.

For some students finding a career after graduation is an exciting prospect and achieving that goal is only based on how well they can do the job. For other students looking for a job after graduation can be an incredibly nerve-wracking experience because employers can and will discriminate against them based on their gender identity or sexual orientation.

Only 18 states currently have legal protection against discrimination based on gender identity

and sexual orientation. In all other states, including Kansas, employers have no legal reparations for queer discrimination in the workplace.

Statistics provided by Washburn University Career Services show that there are approximately 55,000 queer people currently in the workforce in Kansas and in total around 83,000 queer individuals in Kansas. This means there are approximately 30,000 queer individuals that will be entering the workforce in the future, and many of them are currently in college or high school and they have to worry about being discriminated against in the workforce for simply being who they are.

Michael Anshutz is a fifth year senior who is graduating in May, 2019. He also happens to be gay.

Anschutz is currently an English literature major, but he originally

intended to major in English education to become a high school English teacher. Unfortunately, Anschutz reevaluated his career choice due to many factors, one of the main ones being the fear of being a gay teacher in Kansas.

“To me, my professional life and my personal life are two very different things, but as a teacher, or in any job that deals closely with children, oftentimes your personal life is open to extreme criticism,” Anschutz said.

It’s also no secret that parents can be fiercely protective when it comes to their children and many parents in a state like Kansas are uncomfortable with their children being taught by queer individuals.

Since there are no laws in Kansas that prevents employers from firing someone based on their sexual or gender identity, Anschutz would be in constant fear of suddenly los-

ing his job.

Now, Anschutz plans to go into book publishing, a field that is less of a gamble when it comes to discrimination, but as a gay man there is no guarantee that he won’t be fired on unfair grounds.

“Discrimination against LGBTQ+ people can sometimes go unnoticed or untalked about because many people still view the queer ‘lifestyle’ as a choice and something that can be easily hidden if it becomes an issue, but we shouldn’t have to hide who we are to keep our jobs,” Anschutz said.

There are also certain fields that queer people can feel more safe in. A majority of queer people will gravitate towards more artistic or creative fields, because people in those fields are thought to be more accepting and open-minded. Amelia (Vinyl) Anderton, junior mass media major and current vice-pres-

ident of Queers & Allies. Anderton identifies as queer and pronoun-indifferent.

“I know that part of my decision to pursue such a creative field was due to the fact that I fit in with the other people in this major,” Anderton said. “I am what society considers other or odd. I am accepted in this field and even praised for being different, whereas in a field such as business I might be ostracized.”

Kansas and many other states across the United States do not offer legal protection against workplace discrimination. This leaves college students and the future of the workforce afraid for their job security. Queer students at Washburn hope their resumes aren’t tarnished by being LGBT.

Crime Report Creepers gonna creep 4:04 p.m. Jan. 2. A suspicious person report was filed from Memorial Union.

Suspicious behavior observed on the campus, subject given a notice to leave.

You don’t even go here

Clothes on the run

3:17 a.m. Jan. 5. Officers contacted 7:52 a.m. Jan. 8. A report was filed a suspicious person waiting outside from Morgan Hall. Clothing was of the LLC. Individual was not a reported missing then found at LLC. resdient or a WU Student and left campus when requested.

Medical Report 11:33 p.m. Jan. 10. A medical Harassment Report Playing some ‘Minecraft’ report was filed from Lincoln Hall.

11:54 a.m. Jan. 4. An information 8:33 a.m. Jan. 7. A accident report Medical call for a student having report was issued from Whiting. was placed from Lot 9. A car versus seizures. Student refused medical Complaintant wanted to report tree non-injury accident occurred in services and left campus. harassment by a known subject.

Lot 9.

No raccoons allowed

No green in this room

2:22 a.m. Jan. 11. A burlarly/ 5:56 p.m. Jan. 13. A call was made intrusion alarm was reported from a from the Living Learning Center in 1313 SW 21st Street. Motion alarm reference to an odor of marajuana. was set off and area was secured.

Consent search was conducted on the room and nothing was found.

Iron Chef gone wrong

11:28 p.m. Jan. 12. A fire alarm Whatcha got there? report was made from Lincoln Hall.

10:55 p.m. Jan. 14. A report The alarm was set off due to burnt was made from Lincoln Hall of food. a marijuana odor. The consent to search was denied.

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OPINION AL I T EN

D NFI

CO

DEAR SMALLS

Ask Smalls, the ‘know-it-all’ Ichabod Dear Smalls, How can I find an on campus job and are they flexible with school schedules?

-Jobless Dear Jobless, Try going to the Washburn website; (washburn.edu/studentemployment) and then find the tab that says ‘student employment’ click it and explore the open job opportunities and yes, because the jobs are specifically for students, your work hours revolve around your school schedule.

Don’t worry about that, Washburn employers always make sure that student employees have a healthy balance.

Good luck!

Sincerely, Smalls Dear Smalls, What are your top 3 New Years resolutions?

Mine are; pass with B’s, drink more water and budget.

-Nosey Rosey Dear Nosey Rosey, Great resolutions! My top 3 New Years resolutions…hmmm..

1. Try not to be so secretive. (ironic, right?)

2. Pass online exams without Quizlet.

3. Find an alternative for caffeine.

Best, Smalls Dear Smalls, I failed college algebra twice what do you recommend me doing?

-Bad at Math Dear Bad at Math, I would start by talking to your advisor about alternative options, depending on if your major requires that specific course or not, you may be able to sneak by with essentials.

A few of my buddies have actually taken college algebra at Allen Community college and have had their credits transferred over to Washburn.

P.S. You’re not bad at math so don’t be so hard on yourself. Math is just like a complicated relationship, it has hope if you work on it.

Good luck and don’t give up, Smalls

washburnreview.org

Letter from the editor

Student Media Review Editor in Chief

Welcome back Bods! I hope you all had a wonderful winter break. As the new year has rolled in, I am sure many of you have created goals and resolutions like Washburn Student Media.

If you haven’t really thought about any goals, I have a few ideas for you.

Drink more water. Drinking water increases brain power and provides energy, promotes healthy weight management and weight loss, boosts your immune system and much more.

It may seem like a simple task but it can improve your overall attitude.

Self-care. Take a day every week for yourself. It doesn’t have to be a whole day but take an hour or two to destress. Use that time to journal, reflect, color, watch Netflix or whatever you need to do before you conquer the rest of the week.

Socialize. Washburn has so many events happening on campus that you as a student should take advantage of because they are typically free. While it may be uncomfortable, it is a great chance to meet new people and expand your horizons.

Planners. I live by my planner! Without my planner I would probably forget every deadline that I have. Every week I recommend sitting down before the week starts and layout what you have to do. Maybe even start planning ahead. I know my planner has my full semester included in it already and I add meetings and deadlines as I go. What I have found extremely beneficial is looking at each of my syllabi and adding in due dates for homework, quizzes and exams. I feel much more prepared and I know what to expect each week.

Hopefully you can use one or more of my tips and find more tips from Student Media in one of our media outlets.

For 134 years, the Washburn Review has provided a voice for the Washburn community. Since the beginning of the Washburn Review, the way we deliver information has changed drastically. Student Media provides a newspaper, the Bod Magazine, the KAW Yearbook, a website, social media and various projects. It’s our goal to find new, better

Morgan Holloway Online Reporters Arya Thapa News Editor Morgan Holloway News Reporters DeyJa Cardenas Matt Self Features Editor Samuel Cox Features Reporters Yash Chitrakar Natalie Croze Nicholas Solomon Sarah Miller Kodee Christensen Arts and Living Editor Samuel Cox Arts and Living Reporters Alicia Muniz photo courtesy of Morgan Holloway

and different ways to communicate what is happening at Washburn.

Washburn Student Media is excited to welcome new people to our staff to give you a new perspective on happenings at Washburn.

In 2018, Student Media received the All-Kansas Award in the 4-Year Newspaper Division by Kansas Collegiate Media and we work to maintain that same quality of work in 2019. We are always looking to see how we can improve and we hope you can help us do that. Give us feedback on how our coverage can improve, ask about what we do, write a letter to the editor and maybe even work here.

We look forward to hearing from you and wish you the best of luck with your spring semester.

Opinion: Road construction is a necessary evil Charles Rankin

Washburn Review charles.rankin@washburn.edu

Let me first preface this opinion piece by saying this: I do not drive. I’ve never learned how to and I don’t know if I ever will. It’s just a part of who I am that is an inconvenience to me at times and to those who drive me places I’m sure even more so. But knowing this information should make you realize how bad this situation really is.

With that out of the way, I will say this: road construction in Topeka is getting out of hand. Not only is it happening more often, but it is taking longer and longer to finish these projects. The intersection of 21st and Gage has seen construction about five times in the last six years, including another major project starting up soon. Another area that effects Washburn students is the construction at 29th and Burlingame, which began right before the end of the previous spring semester and continues as I type this.

What in the world is happening in this city?

It seems like the answer is that infrastructure in this nation is breaking down. According to the Congressional Budget Office, while the federal government has spent about the same on infrastructure costs in the past few decades, around $100 billion, state and local government spending on infrastructure has skyrocketed, spending around $150 billion in the 1970s to spending close to $350 billion now. The percentage that the federal government spends has changed dramatically as well. In 1977 it peaked at 38 percent of the total amount spent while the number dipped all the way down to 25 percent now.

By shifting the funding from the federal government to the state and local government, this has forced those local governments, Topeka included, to find ways to make infrastructure like roads last longer.

Washburn Review Corrections

Topeka began a process called micro-surfacing to extend the life of many streets for a few years. This quick and seemingly cheap process is preventative and temporary and will give many streets in the area about five more years of life before needing major construction. But why not spend a little more money to permanently fix these streets and give them 15, 20 or even 30 years of life?

Another area of concern with many Topekans is that these construction projects seem futile considering how many issues we have with other infrastructure systems, namely the water main system in the city. Just yesterday, as I was going to lunch with people I work with at my internship, one of my co-workers made a comment about how she knew of several cases where a street would have major construction to fix an issue on the road, only to have it be closed and torn up a few weeks later because a water main broke under the surface. According to a report by KSNT, between July 8 and July 10 of last year, there were 22 water main breaks reported in Topeka. Twenty-two breaks in the span of 72 hours!

There is a simple solution to all of this, but it’s not one that will come cheap or in a short amount of time. We as citizens will need to be willing to pay more in taxes. Local taxes come and go as the political climate and needs of the citizens change. Even in the upcoming election, there will be a question on the ballot about continuing a current sales tax for the improvement of streets for another 10 years.

A poll conducted this past summer showed that just over half of Topekans would be willing to pay more in taxes to see an improvement in our streets. This is a great indication that the average citizen is willing to take ownership in their city and willing to see the improvement that its streets so desperately need.

Mingzhu Zhu Sports Editor Alex Landwehr Sports Reporters Seth Burdick Brandon Brownlee Design Editor Cody Dannar Designers Joshua Irsik Erica Faulkinbury Online Editor in Chief Joelle Conway KAW Editor in Chief Maggie Gile Designer Joelle Conway Anna Marie Lauppe Bod Mag Editor Rachel Ciummo Chief Copy Editor Shayn Jones Copy Editors Adam White Abbie Barth Kendra Wicks Wesley Tabor Ads Manager Josey Trimble Ad Sales Victoria Smith Ad Design Randi Dofat Paper Delivery Josey Trimble Arya Thapa Freelance Lou Collobert Dylan Babcock John Burns Eriko Hirano HR Manager Bailey Sater Executive Editor of Student Media Kraig Dafoe Director of Student Media Regina Cassell

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January 16, 2019

ARTS & LIVING

5

Transgender English professor inspires acceptance Sarah Miller

Washburn Review sarah.miller6@washburn.edu

Izzy Wasserstein has been a professor in the Washburn University English department for almost 11 years, but she has recently gone through a change that is inspiring students and faculty.

Wasserstein is a Washburn aluma who received her bachelor’s in English, then went on to pursue her masters at the University of New Mexico. After receiving her masters, Wasserstein returned to Topeka and began looking for a job, which is when she accepted the position at Washburn University as an English professor.

Since then she has enjoyed being a professor at Washburn University and loves working with students as she has found them to be the most accepting and caring generation of people.

“College students today are much more accepting than any other generation. I hesitate to use the word ‘woke’ but they really are so open to others and their feelings and they are constantly pushing boundaries,”

Wasserstein said.

Although Wasserstein is content being a professor and she was happy in her personal life, she felt that she was not being authentic in her everyday life. As a queer transgender woman who was still presenting as a man at work, Wasserstein was in constant battle with true self every day.

About a year ago Wasserstein came out as transgender to the university and her students fully transitioned into using female pronouns and presenting as a woman. Since then she has received support from faculty and students alike.

“It was amazing to me how quickly the students accepted the change,” said Wasserstein. “I transitioned between semesters last year and almost immediately the students were able to change pronouns. They just rolled with it.”

Now that Wasserstein has opened up to everyone in her life about her gender identity, she has felt much more fulfilled as a person. Before making the decision to come out publicly in her workplace she was already living as a woman in her pri-

vate life with her friends, family and spouse. Even with all the support she got from those closest to her it was nerve-wracking to contemplate coming out as transgender to the public, especially in the current political climate. Her bravery has been inspirational to many students, especially transgender students.

“Many professors don’t realize that we have many transgender students on campus.They don’t mean to be ignorant or non-inclusive but they are just unaware of the transgender population,” Wasserstein said.

Ever since she has come out she has decided to be vocal about transgender and queer rights. She believes that we need a lot more exposure to queer history and topics in the courses at Washburn University.

Wasserstein wants to see queer topics introduced into classes that are already a part of the curriculum so that all students can learn about it, rather than just those students that pick and choose to take classes centered around queer themes.

Lauren Evans, junior English major, has taken several courses with Wasserstein.

photo courtesy of Izzy Wasserstein

Making changes: English professor Izzy Wasserstein inspires students and faculty to be who they wish to be. Wasserstein transitioned as a woman about a year ago.

“As a queer person myself, seeing someone I look up to being so open about her identity really is amazing,” Evans said.

Activism is a big part of bringing about change and Wasserstein fully

believes that every voice can lead to change.

“Change is never enacted by sitting around and waiting for it to happen,” Wasserstein said.

What do you think of the government shutdown?

By Samuel Cox

Daniel Albertson Junior Music Education

“I think it’s really silly because of one person who isn’t getting his way and that’s affecting thousands of Americans across the country. He is not keeping everyone’s best interest in mind. Even though he has opinions of his own, that shouldn’t affect how the country is run as a whole.”

photos courtesy of alpha coders.com

Game decisions: Games “Paladins” and “Overwatch” each have their good and bad parts. Give these games a whirl in between homework and class.

Playing ‘Paladins’ or ‘Overwatch’: The pros and cons of both Natalie Croze Washburn Review natale.croze@washburn.edu

When Blizzard’s “Overwatch” hit the market in May 2016, it became successful overnight. With interesting heroes, engaging game modes and a large player base, “Overwatch” had a lot of promise at release. In the three years since then, the game looks almost the same as it did in 2016 with the addition of some new heroes and a few new maps. It still has a vibrant player base, but if you have ever had a long losing streak in ranked matches due to disorganized teams, the game might be feeling a little stale.

If you enjoy “Overwatch” but are in the mood for something that rewards you for personal skill instead of team play, consider playing HiRez Studios’ “Paladins.” The game is a team based shooter, like “Overwatch,” and also features a number

of playable heroes that you use to win player versus player matches.

Unlike “Overwatch,” “Paladins” allows for more customization of these heroes and how you play them. Each hero has a set of cards that augment their abilities letting your Fernando (similar to “Overwatch’s” Reinhardt) be different than another player’s Fernando.

In addition to cards, at the beginning of every match you get to choose one of four overall buffs that further enhance the hero and as the match goes on, you earn points based on how well you play and are able to spend these points on more buffs that you can choose as the situation calls for it. For example, if the enemy team has a lot of shields, your damage dealers can purchase damage boosters that will tear through shields. If instead they have a great healer, you can purchase a debuff that reduces the effectiveness of enemy heals.

One difference in this game that

“Overwatch” players might have trouble with is that once you choose a hero, you have to play that hero until the end of the match. This forces players to better cooperate with each other because if a team has all damage dealers, they can’t swap them out when the match starts to go south.

Ranking is also done differently.

Winning is not as crucial to a high score as skilled game play. Though winning gives a significant boost to leveling up, if you get stuck on an awful team but do the most damage, heals, tanking or anything else, the game will reward you accordingly, making sure your efforts are not wasted.

If you’re looking for something new to play this semester, I recommend giving “Paladins” a try. It’s a great game to play in between homework and it is free to play so you can try it out before you put any money down.

Noah Copeland Senior Kinesiology “I understand that he’s trying to get something done. Government shutdowns have been used in the past to get something done as well. Do I think that the methods [of a shutdown] are good? No, because it causes people to go through some stress and tough times.”

Matt Willis Senior Finance Management “I feel like we are too split currently. Everyone wants their way. It’s either one side or the other, so right now [the shutdown] just hurts the American people. We need to come together and do a little more in order to fix it. I like it personally, and I understand why it’s happening, but I think there is a lot of ways we can change that.”

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ARTS & LIVING

washburnreview.org

Best art murals and photo opportunities around Topeka

Community spirit: The Brown v. Board mural covers a 130 foot by 30 foot wall and is located on SE 15th Street by the Brown v. Board of Education. It was painted last year by numerous artists and the Topeka community.

Double meaning: The location of this mural is in the alley of 905 N Kansas. This mural was named ragaZagar which is the artist’s name backward and forward.

Tree of love: This mural can be found at 1029 N Kansas. A former Methodist minister, Rev. January Kiefer named this mural the Wall of Healing.

Hidden gem: To find this mural, one might have to look a little harder. It was found after walking between the ragaZagar and sunflower mural in the 905 N Kansas alley.

Smiling sunflowers: This mural can be found around the corner of the ragaZagar in the 905 N Kansas alley.

No place like home: This mural is located at the west side of Habitat for Humanity in NOTO. The mural was painted in 2018 by Beth King.

Classic Kansas: Greetings from Topeka is on the north side of 917 N Kansas. This postcard style mural was added last year in the NOTO Arts District. photos by Morgan Holloway

FEATURES

January 16, 2019

7

Music artists to watch in 2019 Shayn Jones

Washburn Review shayndel.jones@washburn.edu Jade Bird

Ariana Grande

photo courtesy of Coversongs.com

photo courtesy of hit-Channel.com

AJR

Ava Max

photo courtesy of Coversongs.com

photo courtesy of Octavpelin.wordpress.com

The Chainsmokers

Imagine Dragons

photo courtesy of Edmred.com

photo courtesy of Muzoko.ru

Halsey

Panic! At the disco

photo courtesy of biblouisemichel.wordpress.co,

photo courtesy of lyricalpoem.blogspot.com

Beyonce

Dan + Shay

photo courtesy of melodicamente.com

photo courtesy of Tasteofcountry.com

Monte Vista Crane Festival takes flight Alicia Muniz

Washburn Review alicia.muniz@washburn.edu

The 36th Monte Vista Crane Festival will begin March 8-10. During the month of January, there have been ticket sales for crane viewing and different tours. The first week had over 200 tickets sold for different events.

There were traditional Sandhill Crane tours, beer tasting and archaeological sites to visit. There are still plenty of tickets, however the expectation is that by the end of January, tickets will be sold out. The Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge annually celebrates the arrival of the mass migration of thousands of Sandhill Cranes, an endangered species that has only recently began to recover their population. The cranes don’t stay, as they only touch down to feed and rest before continuing their migration north to their final nesting ground. It is an amazing sight to see and something many locals feel privileged to witness.

The tours offered are hosted by different companies. The archaeological tour is hosted by the Scott Miller Archaeological Site, which is located in the Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge, and it is generally closed to the public. However, to gain more funds, they open it up to one tour for people to see and examine the site that contains hundreds of ancient artifacts dating back more than 10,000 years.

Tours are also offered by the Colorado Farm Brewery that is located southeast of the refuge, which gives tourists the opportunity to learn things about brewing, as well as being able to taste different brews made locally.

Bird walks are also offered by a local ornithologist, John Rawinski, who has a lot of accumulated knowledge to impart, but there are only two tours that go around Home Lake.

Raptor-viewing, a guided tour highlighting

the history of different stops of the Sangre De Cristo National Heritage Area, is led by experts at Hawks Aloft, a rehabilitation place for raptors that have been injured or abandoned as babies to recover and be set free again. This is located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and will be offered again this year.

This festival is an important event, not only for the communities in the valley, but also for the organizations that are involved.

It helps bring in new funds and the interest of different people to the needs of different companies and refuges. Volunteers make this event possible and it is organized every year through sponsorship from various businesses and individuals.

Ruthanne Johnson, media outreach specialist, believes this is an important event.

“This event is an important part of this community. Without the support of businesses and volunteers, the cranes would not have a good place to rest and recover from their beginning flight and a way to center themselves for the last stretch,” Johnson said. “This is an important part for the birds and without this, they would have to find somewhere less ideal that might not be able to handle the amount that come.”

photo courtesy of Joe Zinn

Birds of a feather: Sandhill cranes gracefully land on the marshy wetland. Jan. 9 marked opening ticket sales for an upcoming event this March.

Since 2018, many up-and-coming and current musicians have taken their seat in the spotlight, singing to their heart’s content and gaining more and more popularity as the year progressed. Now that the new year has begun, some artists continue to gain fans while up-and-coming artists are working hard after their first debut album.

Starting with up-and-coming artist Jade Bird, British singer, songwriter and musician, she debuted her first extended play record “Something American” in July 2017. Since then Bird’s edgy, pop-rock sound with an indie vibe has given way to a new fanbase with her newest single “Love Has All Been Done Before,” released in late 2018, gaining more than 400,000 views on YouTube. Fans of Bird continue to keep a close eye on her into 2019, excited to hear her next big hit.

Ariana Grande, American singer, songwriter and actress, continues to make big waves into 2019. Since her first acting job in 2009 as Cat Valentine in the Nickelodeon television show “Victorious,” Grande has done nothing but excel. After her time as an actress, she quickly made it into the music spotlight with her first hit “The Way,” gaining more than 360 million views on YouTube. She continues to release hit songs like “Dangerous Woman” and “Thank U, Next,” and gains more fans on a daily basis. Fans are awaiting more hit albums and songs as 2019 kicks off.

Artists AJR, Ava Max, the Chainsmokers, Imagine Dragons and Halsey left their mark in 2018 and continue to gain fans and popularity as the new year begins.

Alyssa Hatch, sophomore chemistry education major, enjoys listening to a lot of today’s

pop music.

“I think they have really unique styles of music,” Hatch said.

Panic! At the Disco, an American rock band, continues to please rock fans. They consistently change the sound of each album they produce, adding to their fanbase. Musically, they are described as pop-rock and alternative, piecing together synth, rock and pop sounds, creating a twist on the typical rock band persona. Fans await their next big hit, curious to see what new sounds they experiment with.

Katelyn Terbovich, sophomore music major, is a huge fan of Panic! At the Disco.

“They constantly change their sound of each album and they’re not your average group,” Terbovich said. “They actually use instruments and the singer definitely can wow a crowd.”

Beyoncѐ, American singer, songwriter, actress, record producer and dancer, also continues to excel in her music career as she begins the new year. Since her time as a member of Destiny’s Child and moving into a solo music career, fans rave about her sound and success.

For country lovers, Dan + Shay, American country vocalists and songwriters Dan Smyers and Shay Mooney, have become a new duo heartthrob in the country music industry.

After their first single “19 You and Me” was released, their success took off. Since then fans continue to watch Dan + Shay as they move into the new year, hoping for another hit like “Tequila,” released in January 2018, which has since become their highest charting song on “Billboard Hot 100,” making the Top 40.

As 2019 begins, fans are excited to hear about their favorite artists as new hit songs and albums are released.

‘Future Man’ season 2: Terrific sci-fi comedy series returns to Hulu and Amazon Prime Nick Solomon

Washburn Review nicholas.solomon@washburn.edu

Comfort food comedy returns for a second season.

One of my favorite comedies of recent years, Hulu exclusive “Future Man” had a debut season that was an incredibly pleasant surprise.

Executively produced by Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg, season 1 was an incredibly fun show. Every episode, despite a few jokes that didn’t land, was consistently funny with each being separate and episodic.

“Future Man” is about Josh Futturman (Josh Hutcherson), a 20-something working as a custodian at a lab that’s main goal is to research a cure for herpes. He is visited by two super-soldier rebels, Tiger (Eliza Coupe) and Wolf (Derek Wilson), who are from the dystopian future, which happens to be indirectly caused by Josh’s employer. Season 2 continues that story with the trio traveling to an alternate future after accomplishing their mission.

What made season 1 so good was the well-paced humor, writing and the cast. It was never self-serious and it worked incredibly well with every episode by generating consistent laughs. It is important to point out season 1’s many strengths, because “Future Man” season 2 is a sharp departure. In some ways it sticks the landing, and in others it doesn’t.

The big thing to discuss about season 2 is the setting.

It stays in one contained setting throughout the entire season, which sets it apart from the first season as each episode bounced decade to decade. One of my favorite aspects of the show is the time travel. Season 2 nearly does away with that entirely, rather focusing on the effects of what the protagonists changed with a singular bottled up setting.

With this, the show also tries to become a more serious science fiction, and it really does work for the most part. However, the show loses much of the vital off-the-wall humor. The balance between the two is wildly inconsistent

photo courtesy of IMDb

Never surrender: “Future Man” has returned with a flawed but still must-watch second season, thanks to the cast. Pictured is Derek Wilson as Wolf, who remains an insanely enjoyable person to see perform and the best part of the entire show.

with only the last few getting back into the consistent joke after joke awesomeness.

The trio is also given unbalanced screen time. In the first season, Futturman was the viewer’s anchor to reality.

He was billed as the protagonist but Tiger, and especially Wolf, overshadowed him. I liked him enough, but he is given minimal screentime.

While it may seem that the writers have chosen to focus on the more interesting characters, even Tiger and Wolf are given ho-hum material.

For Tiger, while Coupe remains an excellent actress with perfect comedic timing, she is perhaps given the shortest end of the stick. She has the most screen time, but also the worst material. Her character is given the worst fate of all: her narrative becomes contrived. She is written incredibly out of character and it doesn’t let you suspend disbelief because the character arc makes no sense. To make matters worse, the storyline surrounding her is also incredibly long and drawn out, feeling almost artificially long at times, and Coupe certainly deserves better.

I will be frank. Wilson’s performance as Wolf has to be some of the most wonderful and funny character development I have seen recently. For an actor that could easily lead the show on his own, he deserves so much credit. He continues to be the best part by a wide margin, and the show is absolutely worth watching for him

alone. What made him so fun in the first place is his wild character arc, going from a deadpan-delivery future soldier to a sensitive Renaissance man. He is given plenty of great lines that made me laugh out loud, but is also given sincere moments too. The show is definitely at its best whenever Wolf is involved. His narrative does drag a bit, but Wilson makes it more than bearable.

Overall, I commend the second season of “Future Man” for doing something way out of left field instead of rehashing the first season, but it has definitely left me questioning how satisfied I am with it. Exploring themes such as the effects of the time travel for an entire season is interesting and is pulled off well at times, but the season long story arc could have been done so much better. I wish it fired on all cylinders the same way as the final three episodes of the season.

I still recommend it, and I need to give it credit. The show had some very sincere moments in it that really didn’t happen often in the first season. For the most part, these felt natural and were some of the strongest moments the series has seen yet. This gives me hope that the writers will learn to balance things more for a potential third season. While things were a little off in this one, I still want more. I enjoy having more of the trio and hope to see the series appreciated by more people.

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washburnreview.org

‘Aquaman’: A fun yet questionable film Nick Solomon

Washburn Review nicholas.solomon@washburn.edu

Maybe the best DCEU film yet.

The DC film shared universe has had an absolutely terrible losing streak. “Suicide Squad,” “Batman v Superman,” “Justice League” and the like were all marred with a multitude of problems and are genuinely bad movies. So far the only successful DC film was “Wonder Woman,” directed by Patty Jenkins.

Just like “Wonder Woman,” “Aquaman”stands out among the rest.

Directed by James Wan (“Saw,” “The Conjuring”), “Aquaman” is about Arthur Curry, son of a human and Atlantean woman (portrayed by Temuera Morrison and Nicole Kidman) who has superhuman powers such as strength, the manipulation of fish and tides and fast swimming.

He is, of course, portrayed by Jason Momoa, and I still love the Rob Zombie Jason Momoa look. He is shoved into a save-the-world plot involving underwater politics, Indiana Jones-type globe trotting and a host of other amalgamations.

The basic gist is that Orm (Patrick Wilson), Arthur’s half brother, wants to take over all of the ocean and declare war on humanity. Then there is another villain, although a less used one, named Black Manta, portrayed by Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, who has a grudge against Arthur. The plot is startlingly similar to Marvel’s “Black Panther” but the protagonist and antagonist roles are reversed.

Most of the film is dedicated to Arthur and Mera (portrayed by Amber Heard), an Atlantean princess with strange powers. The characters fight and travel their way through beautiful underwater areas and around the globe, visiting places like the Sahara and Italy. That is where the film absolutely shines, visually and action-wise.

The CGI in this film is heavy, but I absolutely enjoy it. It really blew

my expectations. Combined with great costume design, this led to quite a spectacle that I have never really seen before in a movie.

Much of the film is set underwater, and for the most part it works.

Only one time did I notice a tiny flaw with the CGI. Visually, I can see kids absolutely loving this film, even more than I did. I was thoroughly impressed in stark contrast to some of the previous films. Normally, I don’t make a big deal about costume design, but in combination with other VFX this film was on another level, from Arthur and Orm’s suit designs to even Atlantean Guards, I enjoyed all of it as the effort and creativity really showed.

I also have to gush about the action. Usually I’m not impressed by superhero action with the exceptions being “Daredevil” and “The Punisher,” but these were awesome.

They were long takes that hit hard and really left an impact. There was absolutely no shaky cam and I enjoyed every single one. When not talking, Aquaman punching fools had a weight to it, and this can be applied to other characters and their fight scenes.

In between the action is where the film’s problems occur. “Aquaman” is over two hours long, and it really showed. While there were plenty of plot points, near the end there were moments where I was checking my watch to see what time it was. I can’t put my finger on it, but while certainly not having a bunch of filler, this film definitely felt a bit too long.

There are also some major issues with acting and writing. While “Aquaman” is better in some respects, certainly more than “Suicide Squad” and “Dawn of Justice,” there is still some incredibly forced dialogue and plot points. Jason Momoa, while he unquestionably looks the part and brings physicality to the role, is a weak actor. He will crack jokes and deliver lines, but he really doesn’t have the charisma

and likability of Bruce Campbell, Arnold Schwarzenegger or more recently Chris Pratt, as this film is definitely going for a Star Lord-like Aquaman. He seemed at points to phone the performance in, others to really try, but it really pulled me out of the experience.

When there isn’t questionable acting, there is certainly questionable writing. Amber Heard’s performance as Mera started out great, and she really wasn’t given good content to work with, leading me to want to see her with good content before I can form a proper opinion on her acting.

The proven great actors are also given questionable material with Patrick Wilson being given the worst material. While he does his best with what he is given, there are some truly awkward moments with him because of the writing. However, there were a number of times

where I got into his role, and being an actor I admire, I’m glad his acting skills could rise above poor writing sometimes. Then, there is Abdul-Matteen’s Black Manta. I loved this guy’s character and acting, and I loved every time he appeared. He might be my favorite performance in the movie but he wasn’t spared from the dialogue.

Another problem I have is with the soundtrack. Typically, I don’t outright criticize a film’s soundtrack, but the movie had some I enjoyed.

There were some synth elements, which totally matched the setting, and I was pleasantly surprised. Sadly, Rupert Gregson-Williams’ score is more generic than that with the usual superhero orchestra music playing rather than the fun synth music. To top it all off, there is an “Africa” cover by Pitbull, which led me to cringe and sort of laugh more than anything.

All in all, “Aquaman” is visually mesmerizing and has awesome action. It really seems to be up there with “Wonder Woman” and “Man of Steel” as the best DCEU movies, however, it is certainly easy to be better than a movie like “Suicide Squad” so its faults really can’t be ignored. Momoa’s acting and the writing in general lead me to really never suspend my disbelief. There were notable problems even down to a soundtrack that started to get memorable but fell flat most of the time. That being said, I think general audiences and children will love this movie. If I had been a kid when this was released, this is the type of movie I would watch over and over.

I can definitely see this film being a crowd-pleaser to the majority, but it still suffers some incredibly big problems which keep it from being a great film.

photo courtesy of DC Comics and Warner Bros.

50/50: James Wan’s “Aquaman” is a perplexing film with great action and visuals, but the rest of the film is lacking. Pictured is Arthur Curry (portrayed by Jason Momoa), the poorly written and acted protagonist of the film.

‘Long Way Down’: An easy read Kraig Dafoe Washburn Review kraig.dafoe@washburn.edu

photo courtesy of IMDb

Kind of a big dill: Chef Bobby Flay shows off for a live studio audience in his show “Beat Bobby Flay.” The show on Food Network has been running for 18 seasons with over 240 cook-offs.

Tim Freeman wins ‘Beat Bobby Flay’: Brings the heat to Overland Park Samuel Cox Washburn Review samuel.cox@washburn.edu

The concept of Disney channel’s original movie “Eddie’s Million Dollar Cook-Off” becomes reality when renowned chef Bobby Flay takes on amateur cooking competitors.

“Beat Bobby Flay” is an American cooking show on Food Network that has been running for 5 1/2 years.

In this program, Flay is both a judge and a competitor. Each halfhour episode begins with two less experienced chefs competing to create a dish using an ingredient chosen by Flay. The winner of that first challenge is determined by a panel of special guest chefs and food experts. The winner of round one goes to the second round where he or she takes on seasoned chef Flay. Since Flay is much more experienced than most, the second round is made more fair. The winner of round one and challenger to Flay has the advantage of picking a dish for them both to cook.

The challenger must put a unique enough spin on their signature dish, or Flay, with his vast knowl-

edge of everything food, will easily beat them. The special guest panel then determines the winner of the second round through a blind taste test. Through 224 competitions and 18 seasons, Bobby Flay’s win-loss record is 147 and 77, which totals a 65.6 percent winning record.

In season 7 episode 1, winner Tim Freeman strategically challenged Flay to make pad Thai for the final round.

“I knew it was something he couldn’t do,” Freeman said in an interview with a Colorado events magazine. “It was my biggest strength and his biggest weakness.”

Freeman’s victory over Flay gave him an edge to start his career. The Overland Park Convention Center in Kansas announced last week the appointment of Tim Freeman as the venue’s new executive chef.

“Chef Freeman brings more than 25 years of culinary experience from around the world.”

Originally from Granville, Ohio, he has held previous positions in five different countries including Russia, Philippines, Kenya, Portugal and several major cities throughout the U.S., and Kansas is certainly proud to have him back in the Midwest.

“My food is influenced by my multicultural experiences,” Freeman said. “You just pick up on different techniques when you’re traveling around the world learning about other cultures. I’m excited to plant some roots in Kansas, and bring new ingredients and fresh ideas to the convention center.”

Chef Freeman’s accolades include working alongside Chef Wolfgang Puck, cooking at the White House for former President Bill Clinton and the Ohio Governor’s Mansion, and most recently handily beating Bobby Flay in his competition.

Freeman’s new responsibilities will include formulating a new menu and team to begin cooking at the convention center. The center is used for high-profile banquets and catering events ranging in size from small meeting to large galas of 3,500 plus.

“Chef Freeman is an extreme talent and has an impressive culinary background. We were looking for the best and we found him,” Corona said. “We are beyond excited to welcome him to our team and we are confident our clients will be blown away by what he brings to the table.”

Wow, this was an easy read. Of course, this book is for young adult readers, but if you want to take a break from the monotony of all the reading you do as a student, the long uninteresting fodder of higher education, “Long Way Down” offers something different.

Written by award winning writer Jason Reynolds, in free form verse poetry, “Long Way Down” is the first-person reflection of Will, a young man of 15 who witnesses the death of his big brother to gang violence. As Will prepares to seek revenge for the killing, he encounters ghosts from his past as he rides the elevator down to the lobby of his apartment building. All the individuals he encounters on the ride down died from gun violence, and each has knowledge of the events to share with Will, in order to get him to consider more clearly the action he feels he needs to undertake.

Considering this book is for young adult readers, the free verse style certainly provides the reader with the feeling of an easy read and the writing of the free verse certainly complies with that assumption.

The story is simple and appealing though it carries a strong message that comes through quite clearly.

The story is good, but as far as poetry is concerned, many of the free-verse poems don’t work as stand-alone poems, unless everything written in the English language is considered poetry. There are occasions of syllable count and there are some passages that use placement in decent ways, but the poetry seems more a gimmick than artfully thought out. If each poem stood alone and came together to create the story, it would certainly work better. A great example of this is half way through the book. “Then Dani asked, ‘What if you miss?’”

Even in free verse, it seems a stretch to call this sentence a poem. Over-

photo courtesy of Goodreads.com

Going down: “Long Way Down” is a National Book Award Finalist. This book is about dealing with loss due to inner city gang violence.

all, this may mislead young readers as to what poetry is, but then again, it may get them interested in poetry.

As for the strengths and weaknesses of the plot, having ghosts appear that seem to add more knowledge to the situations as compared to having memories of conversations is a bold move. Although this is a stretch, and may turn some readers off because of believability, it works for the story.

Overall, this easy read is a great story about how violence begets violence and if people take the time to think things through when bad things happen, we may find less violence and more acceptance in the world. Given the book is 306 pages long, it may seem daunting until you realize that some of the pages are extremely short, as the line shared earlier is one page of the book.

Be sure to check out this novel when you feel like you need a break from the monotony of school. It only takes about two hours to read.

I give this book 4 1/2 top hats out of five.

FEATURES

January 16, 2019

9

‘The Naked Gun’: Likable comedy with an unlikable cast Nick Solomon

Washburn Review nicholas.solomon@washburn.edu

They don’t make comedies like this anymore.

“The Naked Gun: Files from the Police Squad” is without a doubt a deadpan comedy classic. Directed

by David Zucker and starring the late comedy icon Leslie Nielsen, this movie has a huge following, and for good reason.

The plot revolves around Frank Drebin (Nielsen), a Lieutenant for the LAPD, part of a special group called Police Squad. The squad is put in charge of assisting with the security of Queen Elizabeth II who is visiting Los Angeles. While this is going on, Frank must clear the name of fellow cop Nordberg (O.J. Simpson) who was found near death and framed for a connection to heroin dealing.

This leads Drebin on a wild goose chase across Los Angeles,

accompanied for the most part

by Jane (Priscilla Presley) who is Frank’s love interest, and Captain Ed (George Kennedy), a friend and colleague of Frank’s, trying to unravel a conspiracy involving shady businessman or politician-type Vincent Ludwig (Ricardo Montalában).

What really makes this film special is Nielsen. Before going into projects like Police Squad and “Airplane,” Nielsen was an actor that took serious, no nonsense roles. That translates perfectly to having a starring comedy role as his delivery is phenomenal and totally deadpan. He carries this film in the way Arnold Schwarzenegger does with his action films. Nielsen’s delivery and performance is so good nobody else can really replicate or replace his charm and charisma.

“The Naked Gun” is stuffed with so many funny moments. It has moments of slow burn movie-spanning

gags, like Frank repeatedly crashing his car, and most importantly, it mixes physical humor and dry wit with a countless amount of quotes and one-liners that are as great out of context as they are in context.

O.J. Simpson being in the film definitely shows its age. While jarring and problematic, he really isn’t shown much, but when he is shown he is given the kind of material that works so you feel guilty when the jokes land. I spent much of my time with Nordberg’s scenes trying to forget who was actually being filmed, but I still found enjoyment out of them. Much of the discomfort I had with seeing Simpson can be forgiven with Nielsen and his wonderful Drebin-isms.

I’m ashamed to say I only just now watched the entire “Naked Gun” trilogy, but it is abundantly clear why the movie, and Leslie Nielsen by extension, are so well loved and revered by many. It has

photo courtesy of ifc.com

A comedy masterpiece: “The Naked Gun” is a wonderful film, thoroughly enjoyable and it absolutely deserves all the love it gets with the crucial element being Leslie Nielsen’s performance as Frank Drebin. Pictured are Police Squad members Nordberg (O.J. Simpson), Lt. Frank Drebin (Leslie Nielsen) and Captain Ed Hocken (George Kennedy).

so much charm to it that it’s the type of movie to put on if you are having a bad day, and you can still laugh. It brought me back to my childhood, spending days watching comedies like “Wayne’s World” and “Austin Powers.” At the end there is no

question that I would have revered this movie as much as everyone else does. It makes me long for a time when theaters weren’t dominated by the next Kevin Hart and Dwayne Johnson buddy film, and I really wish I discovered it sooner.

‘Moon’: Netflix exclusive is released a decade after launch Nick Solomon

Washburn Review nicholas.solomon@washburn.edu

Sam Rockwell does beyond just an amazing performance in a wonderful treat of a movie.

I have been using Reddit for years, and one of the most well loved films on the forum is “Moon” (2009), directed by Duncan Jones and starring Sam Rockwell.

“Moon” is about the isolated Sam Bell, a man near the end of a three-year shift under a shady corporation, to be on a special station planted on the moon to monitor activity. He is joined by an automated AI, along with a fully automated facility, voiced by Kevin Spacey. Fortunately, GERTY doesn’t have the biggest role in the film, so Spacey doesn’t stain the movie to the point of being unwatchable like many others.

Odd things soon occur on the station while Sam starts to question his sanity and his employer’s motives. Rockwell is the substantial presence in the movie, and in every way he absolutely kills it. Sam is a wonderfully relatable and nuanced performance, but he also gets to demonstrate varied acting chops and he carries this movie. He has certainly made me an absolute fan.

It is difficult to talk about this movie without revealing details about the plot, but it is a well executed slow burn. Sometimes in film, a slow burn can make a film dreary and sleep inducing, but “Moon” sticks out. It had me from the beginning and it didn’t let up. It mounted with tensity as the ending approached, but even seeing Sam doing everyday tasks was a joy to watch. Being a fan of the “Blade Runner” series and “Westworld,”

this film has the depth in film I crave. “Moon” hit me with deep thought that I truly loved.

I also enjoyed the aesthetic and the soundtrack. This film is essentially a one-setting movie. It nails the claustrophobic, isolated hightech space station that it would feel like. The cinematography was a treat, and Clint Mansell’s score was also excellent. It brought me back to “Blade Runner,” and also “Alien,” in that the best science fiction films have a clearly defined atmosphere, and “Moon” is no exception.

The only problems that the film have are Spacey and the subjective nature of the plot. The film had me gripped from beginning to end, but hearing reactions of others, the film may seem to not make sense in some ways. However, Rockwell really makes this film make sense in that area and the plot can be clear-

photo courtesy of IMDB.com

Perfection: I don’t think Duncan Jones’ “Moon” would work as well as it does without Sam Rockwell (portraying Sam Bell) at the forefront. Pictured is Rockwell giving one of the best performances I have seen in a very long time.

ly and logically thought out after watching it from beginning to end.

Overall, “Moon” is without a doubt one of the best modern sci-fi films I have ever seen, and it blew me away. It has some issues, but those are easily drowned out by

how well done and simplistic, yet complex this movie is. The aesthetic, the music and especially Rockwell’s wonderful performance makes “Moon” a must watch for any Netflix subscriber.

‘Brazil’: Sci-fi dystopian drama helps create a fully realized world Nick Solomon

Washburn Review nicholas.solomon@washburn.edu

Directed by Terry Gilliam (“The Adventures of Baron Munchausen,” “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas”), “Brazil” is about Sam Lowry (Jonathan Pryce), trapped in an incredibly bureaucratic job, a cog within a totalitarian, urban society.

He longs to escape his misery, and strange coincidences lead to the overall main plot of the film where he tries to find a woman (Kim Greist) that he becomes infatuated with within the urban jungle they occupy, which isn’t Brazil.

The plot may seem boring as I described it, but you must see it to understand how special it is. It has a sincerity both visually and story-wise. The city Lowry lives in

is one of the greatest settings ever conceived as a fully realized world.

Part retro-future, part “Blade Runner” and part “Batman Art-Deco,” this movie is incredibly detailed in all the best ways. It can be described as dream-like with its camera work giving this film a dream-like and comic-like appearance, and it draws you in headfirst. I really could write a whole paper on why this film is so beautiful visually.

Then there is the story. Beforehand, I had really only seen Pryce in “Game of Thrones,” and the only other actor I was really familiar with was Ian Holm, who was Bilbo Baggins in “The Lord of the Rings” series, but everyone, especially Pryce, nails their role and lets you suspend your disbelief instantaneously, taking you headfirst into this dream-like sci-fi dystopia that

really nothing else comes close to.

The story itself is definitely a satire, but the work as a whole is an incredibly emotional one in an entirely authentic way. Sam is a protagonist that you really grow to care for, and he is definitely one of the best and most well written protagonists I have seen.

The score is also wonderful.

Composed by Michael Kamen and featuring Geoff Muldaur, this is the kind of score that is not only great, but is also incredibly crucial photo courtesy of IMDB.com thematically. It brings in this score that evokes a fantastical longing for Both fantastical and nightmarish: “Brazil” is one of the greatest films ever made with no flaws in sight. Pictured is protagonist Sam Lowry (Jonathan Pryce) and Lowry’s something idealized and built up. It friend Jack Lint (Michael Palin). really surprised me how thoughtful authentic tragedy to it, and that is own, dripping with complexities it was. what makes it special. Looking that all fit perfectly in the story Gil“Brazil” is without a doubt a film back, I really can’t see a flaw in it. liam came up with, and it is a clasthat elevates film to art, which is Certainly it won’t be for everyone, sic in every sense. why it is difficult to describe why but “Brazil” truly is a class of its it is so good. It has both satire and

Around this

Snippets from past issues of The Review

week in history

By Kraig Dafoe

This story appeared in the Jan. 21, 1981 edition of the Review. The current in-state tuition credit hour costs $292.

This is from the 1954-55 school year. Finals used to be in January.

Nothing like trying to enjoy the holidays with that pressure hanging over your head.

This ad appears in the Jan. 7, 1970 edition of the Review. Today, you can get a McDonalds cheeseburger for $1, but that meat doesn’t compare to tenderloin.

This ad appearred in the Jan. 11, 1957 edition of the Review.

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SPORTS

washburnreview.org

Caitlin Fuller: Washburn advocate

Track & field

Alexandria Landwehr

Washburn Review alexandria.landwehr@washburn.edu

After attending and graduating from Atchison County Community High School, junior Caitlin Fuller chose to continue her education as well as her cheer career at Washburn University.

As for family life, Fuller said she holds them to high importance and learns a lot of life lessons from both her parents and her older sister. Fuller’s mother, Sue, works at the Lansing Correctional Facility under the deputy warden. Her father, Rusty, works at Correctional Corporation of America.

Danielle, her older sister, is pursuing a degree in sociology at Benedictine College.

Once her journey in the Integrated Studies Program at Washburn has reached its end and she receives her bachelors in business and communications next year, Fuller hopes to start working in sales while coaching the next generation in gymnastics and cheerleading.

“My dream is to help others find their love for cheer or gymnastics like I did. By becoming a coach, I can help motivate them to grow as a person and an athlete while also being able to stay in the cheer/ gymnastics world. I don’t think I’ll ever be able to give it up completely, so coaching would be the

next step in my cheer journey,” Fuller said.

Since coming to Washburn as a freshman, Fuller said she hasn’t had any issues at Washburn. She thinks it’s a perfect fit for her, and is glad she chose such a helpful university to pursue her educational and athletic goals.

“My experience at Washburn has all been positive. I’ve met some of the most amazing people in my life and have enjoyed all the things this campus has offered me,” said Fuller.

Fuller has had nothing but positive things to say about her sport and her school.

“Cheerleading has been a major motivator for me and has also encouraged me to do well in my classes. School hasn’t always been the easiest for me, so I’m very thankful that the professors at Washburn and my coach are always available to help and push me to do my best while also having cheer to be a stress reliever,” said Fuller.

Sophomore base and teammate to Fuller, Tateum Hughes, credits Fuller for her free yet hardworking spirit.

“Caitlin is very dedicated and always ready to work. She makes cheer fun while also staying very focused so we can get everything done that needs to be done,” Hughes said.

Aside from cheering on

photo courtesy of Caitlin Fuller

Dolled up: Junior flyer Caitlin Fuller cleans up for a Washburn event. Fuller has been a part of the Bod cheer squad for the past three years.

her fellow Bod athletes, Fuller said she finds passion in helping others any way she can.

“I love working out and also helping others improve their health mentally and physically,” Fuller said.

As far as accomplishments go, Fuller said her most memorable one is winning a state championship in powerlifting during her senior year of high school.

“It was one of the best experiences of my life, next to competing and going to state in track and

cross country during my high school career. It was such a rush and I hope to feel that way again someday,” said Fuller.

One day Fuller hopes to expand her adventurous side and cross some things off her bucket list.

“I really want to go skydiving and travel to Italy at some point,” Fuller said. “I’ve spent most of my time cheering and going to school so I can’t wait to be able to have time to just see the world and experience new thin gs.”

Fast Break: Basketball recap Alexandria Landwehr Washburn Review alexandria.landwehr@washburn.edu

While everybody was at home cuddled up with hot chocolate and spending a month with their families, the Washburn basketball teams were busy making waves and moving through their season schedule.

Men’s Basketball advanced their record to 11-3. The men’s team scraped an overtime win against the Missouri Western State University Griffons Jan. 9. This came after their 94-81 win against Emporia State University Jan. 5.

Their win streak came to an end on Saturday with a loss against the

Northwest Missouri State University Bearcats.

Women’s Basketball is going into the spring semester with a 10-4 record, and the team found success on the court.

They were able to beat rival Emporia 96-88 Jan. 5 after going into two overtime. This momentum carried into their Jan. 9 and Jan. 12 games where they beat Missouri Western State University 65-54 and Southwest Missouri State University 70-51.

Both teams return to action at home to play at 5:30 p.m. this Wednesday, Jan. 16 at Lee Arena.

photo by Lou Collobert

Pivot: Senior forward David Salach maneuvers around the opponent. Salach ranks seventh of all time Bods with his 76 career blocked shots. photo by Lou Collobert

Team player: Senior guard Denesia Smith goes for a 3-point shot. Smith is currently averaging 2.5 points per game this year.

photo by Lou Collobert

Good shot: Tyas Martin (senior) jumps past the Eagles defense for the layup shot. Martin has played for the Bods since his freshman year in 2015.

photo by Lou Collobert

Dribble: Senior guard Denesia Smith looks to get past the defense. Smith came onto the team as a junior last year.

photo by Lou Collobert

Run: Junior guard Reagan Phelan runs up the court. Phelan started for the Bods in all 30 of their games last season.

SPORTS

January 16, 2019

11

What is your favorite part about the Super Bowl?

By Brandon Brownlee

Keenan Lehr Sophomore OTA “Personally, I go with the team I hate the most and I want to see them lose, and then sometimes the commercials and the halftime. This year I’m hoping the Patriots lose.”

Gus Ramirez Junior Business “I would say just the football in general. I’m not particularly ever interested in the halftime show or anything.”

Adam Humbard Junior Criminal Justice “I always enjoy the halftime show. I can’t really think of any recent ones off the top of my head, but I always like the halftime show.”

Christian Clark Sophomore Business “ I just like football. I’m a football player, so I just like the game itself, it’s just exciting. The halftime shows haven’t been as good lately, but the commercials are always good.”

William Gibson Sophomore Kinesiology “I pretty much just like the game itself and all the food that goes along with it.”

Deandre Harvey Freshman History “I like just getting together with family and friends and just hanging out and watching it on TV.”

Giving back: Bods host Special Olympics training camp Brandon Brownlee Washburn Review brandon.brownlee@washburn.edu

The Washburn men’s basketball team welcomed a group of Special Olympics athletes to their basketball home for a hands-on clinic Sunday, Jan. 13. Around 50 athletes of all ages joined to play basketball together and learn a thing or two from the Washburn players.

The day started out with the athletes learning how to properly stretch so they don’t injure themselves. Then they transitioned into groups and rotated around different stations. The stations were all the different aspects of playing basketball such as passing, layups, rebounding, free throws and ball-handling.

The athletes were excited and full of energy all day.

Head coach Brett Ballard enjoys the enthusiasm the team and the young athletes have about the camp.

“The athletes give us a ton of energy with their enthusiasm, [and] with their passion for the game,” Ballard said.

The energy was on full display as they took part in four-on-four games later in the day. Three of the

Special Olympics athletes teamed up with one Washburn player on their team to form a team of four and battle it out for seven minutes against another team.

Many of the Washburn players look forward to this clinic every year, and it is one of their favorite events to put on.

Senior David Salach enjoys helping with the Special Olympics training camp.

“Just seeing all the love that people have for the sport of basketball, and it’s something that I’ve always enjoyed, so to see people share that same enthusiasm is pretty cool,” said Salach.

The influence that the Washburn coaching staff and players have on these athletes is tremendous.

“It’s funny because we’ll see them around town, which is cool, and a lot of them come to our games, which is great, and they enjoy supporting our players,” Ballard said.

The day ended with the Washburn players spending some time to sign various posters for all the participants.

The Ichabods currently sit at 11-3 for the year and will return to action Wednesday, Jan. 16 to face the Nebraska-Kearney Lopers.

photo by Brandon Brownlee

Love of basketball: Head coach Brett Ballard enjoys talking with an athlete. The men’s basketball team was looking forward to this event all year.

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PUZZLES

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