10_31_18 by The Wichitan

Oct. 31, 2018 | Midwestern State University | thewichitan.com | Your Campus. Your News. | Vol. 83 No. 9

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PHOTO BY NATHAN MARTINEZ | THE WICHITAN

U.S. Senate Candidate, Beto O’Rourke speaks at Kiwanis Park, Wichita Falls.

U.S. Senate Candidate, Beto O’Rourke poses with Emily Martinez, nursing freshman, at Kiwanis Park, Wichita Falls. Follow The Wichitan on Twitter @WichitanOnline

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Beto O’Rourke makes last-minute stop in Wichita Falls CHLOE PHILLIPS CO-EDITOR

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bout 350 people from the Wichita Falls community came out to see Beto O’Rourke in Kiwanis Park Oct. 29. Beto O’Rourke, democratic candidate for U.S. Senate representing Texas, came to cities like Wichita Falls because he did not want any cities left out. O’Rourke said he experienced that growing up in El Paso. “Coming from El Paso, Texas, and not a city that’s not easy to get to, I feel very often we were written off or taken for granted. People didn’t show up to where I’m from to listen to us on issues that we knew best. I’m not gonna make that mistake in this campaign, that’s why I’m going everywhere,” O’Rourke said. “I’m going to Wichita Falls, but I’m also going to Henrietta, I was in Amarillo earlier today we’ve been to Plainview, Lubbock, and Pampa, Dalhart and Booker. We’re going everywhere to be there for everyone regardless of party affiliation or any other difference all

of us need to come together for this country.” O’Rourke also has plans to address student issues such as the student loan debt crisis, saying higher education needs to be affordable for people who cannot put the resources together to make college affordable, and for students who are also raising children. “When we invest in young people being able to better themselves, not only are they gonna be better for it but all of us are going to gain from the contributions they make. That’s why I’d like us to refinance existing student loans debt at lower interest rates,” O’Rourke said. “And that’s why I’d like anyone who wants to attend community college or a four year university does not take on debt for the first two years of their education.” O’Rourke also has plans for those who move back to places like Wichita Falls and his hometown El Paso. “I would like to see people who move back to Wichita Falls, back to El Paso in demand, underserved professions that we either fi-

nance their education or wipe clean their debts so they can get back to contributing to the success that raised them in the first place,” O’Rourke said. Dorian Harbin, special education sophomore, who has already participated in early voting, said the main reason she is voting for Beto is because he cares for teachers. “My main thing is that he cares for teachers: he doesn’t want teachers to get a second or third job anymore [to financially support themselves]. I also just appreciate again how much he really cares and wants to be senate for the state of Texas,” Harbin said. Harbin also mentioned how O’Rouke’s candidacy has made college students get more politically involved, including herself. “I’ve never been in politics before until this election,” Harbin said. “Whether or not they’re voting for Beto you know it’s really cool to see them get involved because you don’t really see a lot of young people get out and vote.”

2 | Oct. 31, 2018| STAF F E D I T O R I A L

School spirit on campus OUR VIEW: While there will always be events that are more popular than others, we feel there should be more school spirit during homecoming.

rom the Torchlight Parade to the Saturday night football game, homecoming is a time for students, alumni, and families to take part in the traditions, celebrate school pride and enjoy the activities. This is also a time for families to visit and for alumni to reunite with their graduating class; at least it should be. Events such as the bonfire, Mustangs Madness and lip sync are popular with students, and The Texas State Fair, a new homecoming event made for this year’s theme, ‘Texas sized homecoming’ was also well received. However, we believe there is still room to grow in the school spirit department. Even students that did attend the homecoming events weren’t “hyped”. As we covered each homecoming event we noticed low attendance rates at some and large attendance at others, but very little reaction from the attendees. We believe that homecoming is a time to show your school pride and act outlandish, with no shame; that is what homecoming is about. Organizations are reaching out in efforts to provide a better homecoming experience for students and in the process create school spirit. We believe the overall campus attitude has to change in regards to attending events before any progress will be made in creating spirit, but that depends on the students.

wichitan Vol. 83 | No. 9

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Listen to both sides of the issue W

ith both Texas senate candidates coming to Wichita Falls this week, students have a fantastic opportunity to hear the ideas and values of both candidates in the lead up to election night Nov. 6. Beto O’Rourke held a rally in Kiwanis Park Oct. 29 at 6:15 p.m., with the Democratic candidate hopeful to upset the incumbent Ted Nick Cruz. Republican Cruz will be on campus Nov. Lanier 1 at 5 p.m. in Akin Auditorium. In today’s age of political drama and divide, it is essential to listen to both sides of the issue. To better understand each candidate and their values, it is necessary to give them both time and attention, rather than ignore and berate them for their views. There are people on both sides of the aisle who are guilty of this toxic behavior. Comments left on the tweet above prove that political discussion in 2018 can go one of two ways. The discussions can be lighthearted, informative and productive, or they can be full of hatred and trolling. Those who argue for the sake of arguing are putting blinders on themselves when it comes to learning about the core issues. It is in fact these very people who ought to attend the rallies and listen to the opinions of the opposite side. Beto supporters should therefore make a point to attend

the Cruz event, just as fans of Cruz should’ve attended the Beto rally. This is not in hopes to have their opinions changed or ballot box decision altered, but to humanize and build a better understanding of the other side of things. All over the media, people show ignorance and a lack of understanding of, well politics in general, but most definitely of the views of side they don’t support. The media is not the only entity to blame. People don’t want to hear the other side. It’s like they don’t care or don’t respect the viewpoints. A nation without respect is a nation divided. By attending the opposing side’s event, people will be able to judge the candidates for themselves, without any bias from a media outlet, as well as removing one’s personal biases for a brief moment in time. The race is setting up to be a close one, with the polls divided on which candidate is ahead. Both men have worked diligently throughout the campaign season to appeal to the voters. Beto travelled to every county in the state, and Cruz has managed to keep his strong base despite beginning his campaign much later. Every vote will be important. Students should make sure that they voice their opinions on both candidates, in a productive manner, as debate and discussion is critical in a democratic society. Discuss the election and different campaign points with friends. Attend the rallies and, most importantly, sign up to vote. Your voice matters. Nick Lanier is a mass communication sophomore

Recovering people-pleaser J

ust like everyone else, I spent my time with acquaintances, taking classes, joined clubs and playing sports. As I got older, these ob ligations started to pile up higher than I could reach. Classes got harder, boys got cuter, girls got meaner, and reputations became a priority. So there I was — juggling college classes, a deMia manding relationship, typical drama, and my Heck small-town reputation. Then I moved off to a university where all those things were accompanied with the stress of moving towns, making new friends, joining a sorority and working with The Wichitan staff. I loved them all so much that I was always dedicating too much time, in too many places, for too many people. My favorite activities became mundane, and I lost the feeling of how excited they used to make me feel. My favorite activities and people eventually became obligations. I was an over-active people-pleaser and I was getting exhausted from it.

Unexpectedly, I quit being involved in all of them. I thought that taking myself out of these environments would make me feel better, but in turn, it made things worse. Taking this break made me realize that pushing myself has brought me some of the best people I never knew I needed. They were the people who were there to support me, even in my absence. Living for those around you is not such a bad thing – it’s just exhausting. College is an exhausting environment in general, but it’s the people you spend your time with that make your efforts worth it. Being a part of a team, sorority, clubs and relationships can teach you more than expected. You learn how to be aware of others’ feelings, genuinely apologize when in the wrong, and how each one of your actions affect other people. The moral to this is that it is okay to be a people-pleaser and to be involved in everything that makes you happy, just as much as it is to learn how to take a break from the crazy life you’ve created. We all live our lives in such a fast-paced manner that we forget to appreciate the amazing people and environment we’ve immersed ourselves in. Mia Heck is a mass communication senior

EDITORS: Kristin Silva, Alyssa Mitchell, Chloe Phillips, DESIGNER: Brittni Vilandre

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Opinions expressed in The Wichitan do not necessarily reflect those of the students, staff, faculty, administration or Board of Regents of Midwestern State University. The Wichitan welcomes letters of opinion from students, faculty and staff submitted by the Friday before intended publication. Letters should be brief (250 words or fewer) and without abusive language or personal attacks. Letters must be typed and signed by the writer and include a email address, telephone number and address.

| Oct. 31, 2018 | 3

Taylor Bennett

‘I don’t try speculate about the future ’ TOMMY CHHE REPORTER

n average week for Taylor Bennett, respiratory care junior, consists of cramming in information from her lecture in the library, working at Target until closing time, commuting to Plano, Texas for clinicals, and being an Alpha Phi member. Bennett said she does not have a course meal of breakfast to start off her day. “I generally wake up five minutes before class starts at 8 a.m. I do not have any sort of breakfast to start the day,” Bennett said. Bennett said there is consistency when it comes to her schedule, but there is a difference as to how her classes end. “On Mondays, Tuesday, and Thursdays, I go to class from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. On Wednesday, I still go to class on 8 a.m. but my classes end at 5 p.m.,” Bennett said. “Any day in my schedule is continuous. Due to my busy schedules of working at Target and going to classes, I’d like to take naps, but I can’t because my schedule is congested.” Bennett said working at Target as a guest service agent depends on her clinical schedule. “On the days where I do not have a class that ends at 5 p.m., I usually work at Target from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. I work at Target, Thursday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. normally and I usually work every day except for Wednesday,” Bennett said. Bennett said the most enjoyable part of her

day is going to school because of her interest in respiratory care. “I am learning about the profession I am in and because of such, it genuinely interests me,” Bennett said. Bennett commutes to Plano, Texas for clinicals on any given week. Bennett said her schedule is different when doing clinicals in Plano. “I get up at 5:30 a.m. and drive to the clinical site where I stay until 7 p.m. After clinical, I go home, eat and shower,” Bennett said. Bennett said she is not homesick despite doing clinicals in Plano, Texas. “When I do clinicals in Plano, I am not homesick because I stay with my friends. My friends are generally welcoming,” Bennett said. Bennett said she chose the sorority chapter of Alpha Phi because of the philanthropy cause. “The philanthropy is women’s heart health which is related to my major [respiratory care], and I have experience with seeing people going through tragic circumstances such as seeing my grandfather passing away due to respiratory issues and my brother having heart issues,” Bennett said. Courtney Hoover, business management junior and Alpha Phi president, said Bennett is a participant of Alpha Phi activities. “Taylor is very dedicated. She’s been in the Alpha Phi chapter for four years,” Hoover said. “She’s always been super helpful, gener-

ally the first one to do anything that has to be done for an Alpha Phi activity and she’s one of the fun members.” Bennett said from doing clinicals to participating in retail and school, she couldn’t devote the time required to be an active member of her sorority, Alpha Phi, so she became an associate member. “When it comes to juggling all the events of being in a sorority and doing other activities, I am an associate. By definition, I go to whatever events I could possibly go to. Alpha Phi understands that I’m busy with a lot of things, so I am regarded as an associate. Because I am an associate, I don’t get fined for not attending any events,” Bennett said. Hoover said a key to participating in a sorority chapter is each member’s availability. “It starts with communication. I relate to Taylor because I work a full-time job. We’re [Alpha Phi] good at working with schedules and we understand that you are not available for every Alpha Phi activity. However, as long as you can communicate as to what is going on in regards to your availability, we’re okay with everything,” Hoover said. Natty Cervantes, general business junior and Alpha Phi member, said she and Bennett enjoy doing sports, but do not participate in the same intramural sports together. “She played volleyball for Alpha Phi last semester and I was there cheering her on. When I played soccer for intramurals, she was there cheering me on. We don’t play together, but

we definitely support each other,” Cervantes said. Bennett said she studies at the Moffett Library after she gets off of work from Target because the library is a place where her peers can engaged about the same lectures. “My preferred place to study is the library because I can engage with people that are related to my major [respiratory care] which helps out a lot on my assignments. The library is less distracting because there is no television,” Bennett said. Cervantes said despite her schedule and majors are not convenient with Bennett, she will try to participate in a study session with Bennett at the Moffett Library. “Our schedule is opposite of each other, but when we do have a chance to study together she will contact me and be like ‘Hey, I’m at the library. If you have time, you can come to do your assignments with me’ despite our majors are nothing alike,” Cervantes said. Bennett said she is inclusive of any genres when it comes to listening to music while driving from her occupation. “In regards to any genres I listen to, I am across the board. I do not exclude any genres. If there is any particular regular jam, it would be the soundtrack of The Greatest Showman,” Bennett said. For Bennett, she lives with two principles: working hard and living by faith. “I don’t try to speculate about the future a lot,” Bennett said.

4 | Oct. 31, 2018|

PHOTO BY STEPHEN GOMEZ | THE WICHITAN

Kappa Sigma and Sigma Kappa spread their homecoming spirit by using this years theme: Texas State Fair in their float, with Andrew Grisham, general business sophomore, as Big Tex during the Homecoming Parade Oct. 27.

Homecoming parade attracts alumni JAKE CLANCY REPORTER

ome 50 people attended the homecoming parade Oct. 27, but the annual event that allows campus organizations to create a float and try to beat the others in a creativity competition was mostly attended by alumni. “It’s a student competition,” Ruby Arriaga, student involvement activities coordinator said. “Students participate in homecoming competitions so their organization can get extra points, but it’s also something fun to do for the students. That’s why we had free food over here, to get the community involved as well.” Colonial Church provided free food for the event, which helped attract some 20 students to the parade. “A lot of the students who graduated last year ended up coming back this year,” Arriaga said. “It was really a homecoming because they were coming back home to MSU.” According to Tatum Hines, undecided freshman, homecoming is about having pride in school and showing that by attending the homecoming events and being involved in the different activities that are put on during the week. “It’s the most important game of the year,” Casey Albrikes, biology and chemistry sophomore,said. “It’s a time where we get together with the alumni and we get to see all the MSU spirit and traditions.” According to Albrikes, he would like to see more events in between the bigger ones so there is always something for students to do throughout the week. He wants to see more students involved in events around campus and having more events will help show students how important school spirit is. “Winning isn’t everything,” Caleb Kiser, marketing freshman, said. “The overall experience of making a float with my fraternity and trying our best to put on a show for the crowd and the judges is why I love being involved here at MSU.”

PHOTO BY STEPHEN GOMEZ | THE WICHITAN

Jay Robinson, kinesiology junior, fills his plate during the Fish Fry at Sikes Lake Oct. 26.

Students drop by just for the halibut PAIGE CHAMPAGNE REPORTER

arrying on a 39 year-old tradition, the Kiowa Kooks fried up fish for the annual homecoming Fish Fry Oct. 26 at 5 p.m. at the Sike’s Lake Center. “It’s just something to get everybody together,” Kiowa Kooks member and alumni Carl Nichols said. “Everybody likes fish and homecoming is a good time to do it.” The event was free for students, faculty and staff with a meal plan, but open to any community members and alumni for $9. The funds raised will be donated to the university. “They do a good job, and it’s quite a reasonable price,” community member Chester Zachary said. “Also the group that does this doesn’t charge any money to do it.” The Kooks prepared burgers, beans, fries, hush puppies, and fried catfish for the event. “The fish here is amazing,” mechanical engineering sophomore Ethan Criblez said. “It’s always good.” Nichols said his favorite part of the Fish Fry was how it reunites people. “The work is the same every year, it’s just hard,” Nichols said. “We’ve got a good group of guys that do it, a good group of ladies that help on the inside. It’s a nice time to get together.”

200 pounds of catfish were fried

PHOTO BY STEPHEN GOMEZ | THE WICHITAN

Keith Lamb, vice president for student affairs, holds a plate and socializes while waiting to grab his fish at the 39th annual Fish Fry Oct. 26.

750

pounds of french fries were made

| Oct. 31, 2018 | 5

PHOTO BY STEPHEN GOMEZ | THE WICHITAN

Students feel the heat of bonfire as they watch their T-shirts go up in flames at Nocona Trail south parking lot Oct. 26. | T-shirts and TSU sign go up in flames during the annual homecoming bonfire.

Homecoming tradition goes up in flames LUKE BRYANT | REPORTER

Nocona Trail south parking lot went up in flames once again for the homecoming bonfire. Whether they were there for the atmosphere, the people, or the fire, everyone experienced the tradition that has taken place as far back as the 1960’s. “Great turnout, it was the most lit I have seen everyone at MSU. It was a lot of fun and I was really surprised by the fireworks.” | MITCH KIPP, POLITICAL SCIENCE SOPHOMORE “It’s nice to get out and see this many people come together to support Midwestern, I came for the enjoyment of being around a lot of people and to meet more people.” | MATT LONDON, NONSTUDENT “It’s one of those traditions I have just always done, and it’s cool to see the school spirit. This year was good, it took longer to light this year and having it after mustang madness was different. The atmosphere was pretty much the same as usual.” | JUSTIN ERVIN, ATHLETIC TRAINING JUNIOR

“It’s tradition and I love supporting the football team. The bonfire brings a great atmosphere and it’s inspiring to see all of the school spirit.” | CONNER CHAMBERLAIN, MATHEMATICS SOPHOMORE “It’s just one of those MSU traditions that you have to come to, it’s good to meet new people and see all your friends. It was a great experience, it was really alive, the music was great, the fire was great, and I love the people.” | CULLEN PEARCE, MARKETING JUNIOR “It’s homecoming and who doesn’t want to come to homecoming events? It’s super hot, but I wanted to come see all my friends and have the same experiences as everyone.” | JACEY GRIMES, RADIOLOGY SOPHOMORE

gallons of gasoline poured over the shirts

“It’s a bonfire, it brings a great environment and everyone comes. It gives me the opportunity to see most of my friends, when I don’t get to see all of them on a regular day. The crowd was actually energetic and it was amazing.” | CHELSEA TOLLER, GLOBAL STUDIES JUNIOR “It’s an awesome tradition and I really enjoy engaging in the school spirit, it is one of the only traditions that brings that here.” | TREVOR CARLTON, NURSING JUNIOR “I like to be around a lot of people and supporting MSU, the bonfire always brings those two things together.” | MATT REED, NON-STUDENT “I wanted to come because everyone likes fire and all of my friends wanted to come. Honoring our school and all of our sports is something I

500+ students attended

think is really cool.” | NOAH FLOWER, MARKETING JUNIOR “I really enjoy homecoming, the fire is different every year and that is really cool. It’s tradition and I like fire and the fireworks were new.” | MAGGIE-MAE ELLISON, HISTORY SENIOR “The bonfire is cool, I get to meet new people and just hangout. It gives everyone something to do on a Friday night.” | GARRET LEEK, SPORTS LEISURE FRESHMAN “I came tonight because I really love the Torchlight Parade and meeting up with friends. It lets me do something fun before going into work tomorrow.” | CONNER FITZHENRY, CRIMINAL JUSTICE SOPHOMORE

shirts were burned at the bonfire

6 | Oct. 31, 2018|

Students walk down Comanche with their torches in celebration of the Torchlight Parade for homecoming Oct. 26.

PHOTO BY STEPHEN GOMEZ | THE WICHITAN

Torchlight Parade brings school spirit ALYSSA MITCHELL | CHLOE PHILLIPS | CO-EDITORS

A street full of flickering torchlights lit up the night as students put another year under the belt of the annual homecoming Torchlight Parade. From wanting to support our school to just enjoying the heat, over 100 attendees had their reasons for participating in the homecoming tradition. “I went to the Torchlight Parade because I wanted to get involved this year. This is my second homecoming and I was just really excited to participate and it seemed fun and it was a nice way to spend the night.” | MELISSA KOCKS, PSYCHOLOGY SOPHOMORE “I like the Torchlight Parade because it brings out a lot of students to come together and celebrate homecoming but it’s also kind of fun to play with all the fire. It also looks really pretty with all the torches.” | ELIZA CAMERON, ENGLISH JUNIOR

“I like the fire because its heat because it’s cold out here.” | TY’RAN BEARD, KINESIOLOGY SOPHOMORE “The lights are really pretty and I like how everyone is together all walking to the big bonfire and I’m excited to see the bonfire.” | MIA CHAMBLEE, CHEMISTRY PRE-MED FRESHMAN “My favorite thing about torchlight is getting to hold the torches and hanging out with friends, it’s the best time ever getting to look cool.” | HAYLIE HOLMAN, MATHEMATICS FRESHMAN

“Well this is actually my first time. It is a new experience for me because I’m not from the states so I’m just trying to soak it in and understand the culture behind it and I’ve enjoyed my week so far so I’m looking forward to next year.” | TYLER JONES, BIOLOGY SENIOR

“I heard lots of people, mostly from social media saying ‘come on people you should go. People were encouraging it so I wanted to try it out. I don’t trust myself with the torch, I rather just watch.” | SAMANTHA VENEGAS, NURSING FRESHMAN

“Just wanting to get to know more people, and just be apart of this school. [I’m now looking forward to] the football game and the parties.” | NICHOLAS RAMIREZ, EDUCATION FRESHMAN

“My friends are coming. This is actually my first year here, I’m a transfer student and I just wanted to see what it’s all about.” | NICOLE LINEN, PSYCHOLOGY JUNIOR

“I honestly don’t know what to expect, this is my first bonfire experience ever overall I’m quite excited for it I look forward to more of it in the future.” | MAVERICK MOXIE, PRE-PHYSICAL THERAPY AND PHYSIOLOGY FRESHMAN “[I wanted to come] because I’ve been there before and I haven’t gone a lot and wanted to come to more homecoming events this year.” | ALEXIS MENDEZ, PSYCHOLOGY SENIOR “I just feel like I wanna be apart of the school, to support this school and its homecoming.” | OLA AYDOELE, APPLIED SCIENCES JUNIOR “I just wanna get with the community, feel the presence of everybody and to do something outside of studying all the time.” | ANH TRAN, EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGY SENIOR “It’s cold [outside], I like the heat [from the torches] and I like that everyone actually participates in this event.” | DANIELLE VEALS, NURSING SOPHOMORE

PHOTO BY STEPHEN GOMEZ | THE WICHITAN

Karla Herny, finance senior, blows out her torch during the end of the Torchlight Parade Oct. 26.

“This is my first to attend and I think it’s very pretty with all the lights and I look forward to coming next year which is my last year before I graduate.” | SHERVONNE JOSEPH, BIOLOGY PRE-MED SENIOR “That was awesome, to see all those torches, that was great.” | KATHARINA KERN, MARKETING JUNIOR

| Oct. 31, 2018 | 7

PHOTOS BY BRIDGET REILLY | CLARA UKWITEGYETSE | THE WICHITAN

Pre-physical senior and guard Chelcie Kizart is celebrated for beating the men’s basketball team in the 3-point shooting contest. | MSU Cheer and Maverick welcome Kityana Diaz, radiology sophomore, onto the court. | Crowd cheers for the women’s basketball team for beating the men’s basketball team in a 3-point shooting competition at Mustang Madness Oct. 25.

Mustangs Madness keeps crowd on its feet ALLISON ATHERTON REPORTER

s part of a continuing series of events with homecoming, the Office of Student Leadership and Involvement presented Mustangs Madness Oct. 25 in the D.L. Ligon Coliseum. The event started off with the cheerleaders coming onto the floor and ramping up the crowd’s spirit for the women’s and men’s basketball teams. The players danced their way through the spirit line while the audience clapped and cheered. Mustang Madness still contained the men’s and women’s 3-point contest, dunking contest and ended with the Whataburger for a year 3-point shot contest and the 500 dollar scholarship giveaway. The event was slightly different from previous years because the lip sync finals were held in between the different sections of Mustang Madness.

Lauryn Gregg, psychology freshman

Q.| What was your favorite part of the

night? A.| My favorite part of the night was the danc-

ing and the general upbeatness of the music.

PHOTO BY BRIDGET REILLY | THE WICHITAN

Undecided freshman and forward Tayvion Johnson competes in the intersquad dunking contest at Mustang Madness Oct. 25.

Gracie Payne, mathematics freshman Q.| What was your favorite part of the night? A.| My favorite part of the night was watching the finalist of the lip sync battle. Q.| Why did you decide to attend? A.| I decided to attend because my friends wanted to go. Q.| Did the event get you excited for basketball season? A.| I got excited for basketball season because everything was super upbeat. Q.| Would you attend an event like this again? A.| I would definitely attend an event like this again

Additional reporting by Alyssa Mitchell

Study when you When 15 electricity/cellular customers sign up, $1,200 need to!! YOU EARN

BONUS MONEY!!!

PHOTO BY BRIDGET REILLY | THE WICHITAN

Business sophomore and guard Trae Jones competes in the intersquad 3-point contest at Mustang Madness Oct. 25.

Lonnie Dickson PHONE

: (940)-228-8807

LJDJ4LONNIE@HOTMAIL.COM LONNIEDICKSON.MYSTREAM.COM

8 | Oct. 31, 2018| T H E N E X T FOOTBALL GAM E IS SATURDAY AT WESTERN N E W M E X I C O AT 1 P. M .

PHOTO BY BRIDGET REILLY | THE WICHITAN

Mechanical engineering senior and running back Vincent Johnson gets past Tarleton State University’s defense for a 10-yard gain. After a call against MSU’s offense, the crowd protests in game against Tarleton State University Oct. 27.

Football falls to conference rival Tarleton State 34-35 TOMMY CHHE REPORTER

gainst rival Tarleton State University, the Mustangs lost 34-35 at the homecoming game in front of a crowd of 9,247 people. Bill Maskill, head football coach, said the loss was disappointing but he was satisfied with the team’s toughness. “The kids are devastated, especially about the way we lost. But they were resilient all game long. We never gave up, we kept battling the whole night. Things didn’t go our way, but our kids kept fighting,” Maskill said. Accounting senior Layton Rabb said if there is one thing they can build upon a successful facet of the game, it would be scoring a touchdown with not a lot of time in regulation. “We showed that we can go on a one-minute drill to score a touchdown,” Rabb said. Exercise physiology senior Alec DiValerio said the loss was tough to experience, but the team will not dwell on the loss.

in the NCAA Division II

“It’s a sour taste for the next 24 hours, but I feel like the guys know we have to move on and win out if we want to have a chance of making it to the playoffs,” DiValerio said. Maskill said the homecoming traditions did not affect the players’ performances. “We [the football staff] let our kids [football players] go back to their apartments or dorms. They didn’t go to the bonfire. There are enough distractions during the course of the week. Former players and alumnis coming back during homecoming week was a good thing,” Maskill said. Offensive lineman and business management senior A.J. Rolland said the loss is only one result as he wants the team to start focusing on next week’s game. “We’re going to come to work on Monday, go to meetings about football and watch the film to see what we can build upon and what we need to improve on in order to prepare for the next game,” Rolland said. The team has a 6-2 overall record, with a 4-2 record in the Lone Star Conference.

9,247 people attended

PHOTO BY BRIDGET REILLY | THE WICHITAN

After a call against MSU’s offense, head coach Bill Maskill disagrees with the sideline referee in game against Tarleton State University Oct. 27.

3.5

hour long game

degrees outside at the game

| Oct. 31, 2018 | 9

Mass comm students named king and queen

but they voted for me, and for that I am grateful,” Lacy said. Lacy said majoring in mass communication helped him win homecoming king. “Being a mass communication major did help me grab the win. A lot of people know me or know of me,” Lacy said. “I tried my best to stay involved with campus activities, speaking to different people whether they are a freshman or a senior. Just staying involved helps.”

TOMMY CHHE REPORTER

t the start of halftime, the homecoming court was introduced to the crowd. There were chatters around Memorial Stadium as the crowd waited to see who the next homecoming king and queen would be. “And the homecoming king and queen are...” Mass communication seniors Treston Lacy and Morgan Haire were announced as this year’s homecoming king and queen. Both Lacy and Haire were enthusiastic as they stood on the 50-yard line, waving to the crowd while receiving an applause from the audience and the homecoming court at Memorial Stadium. Haire said she was thankful that she was elected by the students to be homecoming queen. “I am really grateful for the people that voted for me. It really is appreciative of the student body to vote me as homecoming queen,” Haire said. Haire said majoring in mass communication was a part of the reason as to why she won homecoming queen. “Being able to talk to people and communicate with different groups of people helped me,” Haire said. Lacy said his initial reaction to being homecoming king was a surprise. “I was shocked. When I found out I won [homecoming king], I still couldn’t believe it,” Lacy said. Lacy said he was grateful for the students that participated in nominating and voting for him. “The students did not have to vote for me, they could have chose another individual,

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Nominee Comments “Just being in front of the fans during homecoming is awesome. I couldn’t imagine myself being junior prince. I am the only junior in my fraternity [Sigma Nu], and my fraternity gave me the idea to be the nominee for junior prince. I made a Twitter video as to why you should vote for me and here I am on the fields.” | RILEY CARR, NURSING JUNIOR “Being a junior princess is a great experience. Initially, it was my sorority’s [Chi Omega] idea to nominate me. It was a nerve-wracking experience at first, but I had a lot of fun.”| LAUREN PITTMAN, BUSINESS MANAGEMENT JUNIOR

PHOTO BY BRITTNI VILANDRE | THE WICHITAN

Mass communication seniors Treston Lacy and Morgan Haire posing as king and queen at the homecoming game against Tarleton at Memorial stadium Oct. 27.

“I am flattered. It was humbling to be able to go on the field and have your peers vote for you. It is crazy to think that everything has happened quickly such as being a part of a fraternity [Sigma Nu] and being voted as freshman lord during my first semester at MSU. Since I am already involved in a few events, I am going to continue to build relations with other people.” | CALEB KISER, MARKETING FRESHMAN

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PHOTO BY STEPHEN GOMEZ

Students completing the Cardboard Boat Race at Sikes Lake on Oct. 26.

Cardboard boat race goes swimmingly CLARA UKWITEGYETSE REPORTER

This year’s homecoming cardboard boat race had nearly 25 student organizations and attracted over 200 students, family members, and MSU alumni to Sikes Lake, Oct. 26 at 6 p.m. First place went to the team paddling for Kappa Alpha and Chi Omega, the Engineers for a Sustainable World came in second and last but not least the Caribbean Students Organization came in third place to finish up the competition. “There were way more boats this year for sure. Everyone was more surprised that so many of the students did make it to the end,” Ruby Arriaga, coordinator of student activities and university programing board

“We put at least 40 hours of work into this.”

adviser, said. “I think the stutogether and we had good dents learned from the previteam coordination. I need to ous years and they decided to thank all the members and mix it up a little bit; whether it the whole committee because was building a bigger boat, or a they helped us so much. We more stable boat or depending put at least 40 hours of work on how they used the materi- JEDESH CHANDRASEGARAN into this. This time we took als that they had.” MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, about three weeks and we did Jedesh Chandrasegaran, a lot of calculations and estiSENIOR mechanical engineering semates.” nior, and his boating partner Jacob Hawkins, Sarah Krahl, education senior, and Leslie mechanical engineering junior, are from the Landa, pre-med sophomore, said they manenvironmental student organization team aged to complete the course even took note and said they had to approach the competi- of where they could have to improve for next tion differently this time around. year’s competition. “Last time, we were sinking and [were] the The creator of their boat, Ismael Miranda last ones and this time we came in second,” engineering junior, said, “It took me at least Chandrasegaran said. “We spent a lot of time five hours, a hundred dollars worth of [duct]

tape, a lot of folding, creasing, and stressing out, but I built it in two nights. It is a pretty simple design and I thought it would be fun. I honestly wish I didn’t procrastinate and I had more time because I could’ve made a better design.” According to Arriaga, the boat race and the parade are one of the bigger competitive homecoming activities with higher earning points in the competition between the student organizations. This was one of the reasons the event was such a huge success. “It is a tradition here on campus,” Arriaga said. “It’s one of the things getting the student organizations together, partnering up trying to win the competition. This year was great because we actually had a lot of water [since] it rained before hand.”

PHOTOS BY STEPHEN GOMEZ | THE WICHITAN

Trevor Snyder, mechanical engineering sophomore, and Brooks Cremer, nursing sophomore, celebrate their victory. | Students representing their organizations try to cross Sikes Lake during the race. | Mario Ramirez, student involvement assistant director, gives the OK to start the Cardboard Boat Race. | Students preparing their boats before the Cardboard Boat Race starts at Sikes Lakes on Oct. 26.

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PHOTO BY BRITTNI VILANDRE | THE WICHITAN

PHOTOS BY BRITTNI VILANDRE | THE WICHITAN

Josiah Robbins, kinesiology and mathematics education freshman, holds on for dear life on the bull. | Alexis Rangel, nursing freshman, jumps over the arm on the Meltdown.

Constance Caraway, early childhood education sophomore, and Kathy Bone finish the run at the Mustang Stampede 5k and one mile Fun Run Oct. 27.

5K ATTRACTS MORE THAN JUST STUDENTS AMBER HERNANDEZ REPORTER

PHOTO BY BRITTNI VILANDRE | THE WICHITAN

Giavonna Johnson, nursing freshman, falls off the bull at Maverick’s 12th birthday party in CSC Comache Suites and atrium Oct. 24.

Students celebrate birthday riding a bull — inside CHLOE PHILLIPS REPORTER

bout 250 students helped celebrate Maverick’s 12th birthday Oct. 24 in the Clark Student Center atrium. The event’s normal venue is Sunwatcher Plaza, but was changed because of the rainy weather. However, Ruby Arriaga, coordinator of student activities, was satisfied with the turnout. “So far, it turned out really good, we always have it in Sunwatcher Plaza however it is raining. Monday we looked at the weather, we changed it inside, the inflatables are inside and that’s kind of it. We made it happen, we

made it work and it actually turned out pretty well,” Arriaga said. Keza Muvunyi, mass communication freshman, agreed saying the event it was fun. She attempted to ride the mechanical bull but the ride lasted for a couple seconds. “It was fun, I just got done riding the bull it lasted a couple of seconds but it was fun. [The food] was good, I liked the toast and the cake,” Muvunyi said. Alexis Valenzuela, social work freshman, also enjoyed the event, saying it was fun. She also attempted to successfully ride the mechanical bull but got off as soon as she got on.

EVENTS ON OCT. 24 | 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. All-School Picnic & Maverick’s 12th Birthday Party • Sunwatcher Plaza • 3 - 6 p.m. | Backyard Games • Sikes Lake | 8:30 - 10 p.m. Homecoming Dance • Legacy Hall Multipurpose Room

n celebration of homecoming week, the athletics program and Wellness Center hosted a 5k and Fun Run Oct. 27 at 9 a.m. Twenty-eight participants, a mix of students and community members, stood at the starting line and waited for their signal to go. Some students like Kiley Bagley, sophomore dental hygiene, prepared for the run, in advance. “I run twice a week so, in a way, I’m ready for it,” Bagley said. “I ran for a free T-shirt and food. I run a decent amount so it wasn’t bad.” Chris Lipscomb, Oklahoma resident and first place overPHOTO BY BRITTNI VILANDRE | THE WICHITAN Chris Lipscomb, Oklahoma resi- all competitor, said dent, finishes first place at the he drove 45 minutes Mustang Stampede 5k and one to the campus to mile Fun Run Oct. 27. run in the 5k. “I do it year round and I wanted to get my morning run in,” Lipscomb said. “Running is the easy part, visiting after is what I

like doing. “ After finishing the race, Lipscomb walked over to Sikes Lake and ran another eight miles before the award ceremony. Anna Hern, Wichita Falls local and second place overall competitor, said she decided to run in the 5k for exercise. “I just like to run and I like doing the long stuff,” Hern said. “I think running is the absolute best exercise on two feet.” Constance Caraway, sophomore education, heard about the 5k in one of her classes and decided to go with two friends. “I heard there would be breakfast and T-shirts [with registration] so that’s why I wanted to come,” Caraway said. This was Bagley’s first time to do a 5k and she was able to grab first place for her age group. Kristen Longo, art freshman, chose to do the 5k to get involved in the different activities on campus. “Since this is my first semester, I’m trying to do the things the campus has to offer and get involved,” Longo said. “This is my first time to run a 5k.” Dara Cunningham and Nadia Serna, education juniors, said they ran for extra-credit, a free breakfast and a free T-shirt.

Additional reporting by Kristin Silva

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