Editorial: The student press will not be silenced
THE WICHITAN STAFF
Censoring student media on college campuses is the easiest way administration can get around being held accountable.
Student media, including student run newspapers, podcasts and radio shows, run independently from news published directly by the university. This independence allows the student media to publish freely, even if the news they are publishing contradicts the wishes of university adminstrators.
Student media is legally protected by the First Amendment. This means that staff and faculty have no power to censor what student media publishes.
However, that has not stopped universities from trying.
On Oct. 14 Indiana University (IU) student media director Jim Rodenbush was fired for refusing to interfere with the student newspaper, Indiana Daily Student (IDS).
This came after the Media School directed the student paper to only publish homecoming related stories in their Oct. 16 newspaper.
Rodenbush pushed back against administration, explaining that he legally had no power to tell the student paper what they could or could not publish.
Rodenbush took his concern to IU Media School’s dean, David Tolchinsky and was fired.
“Your lack of leadership and ability to work in alignment with the University’s direction for the Student Media Plan is unacceptable,” Tolchinsky wrote in the termination letter. “As a result, leadership has lost trust in your ability to lead and communicate appropriately on behalf of the University.”
The college cut IDS’s print publication shortly after.
The chancellor of IU argued that this cut was in line with the Student Media Action Plan released Oct. 8, and was supposed to help the budget in some way shape or form.
However, the facts remain that this retaliation followed after the student newspaper refused to bend the knee to administration.
In Sept. 2024, the editor-in-chief along with the rest of the editorial staff of UT Dallas’s student newspaper “The Mercury” were fired and “The Mercury” ceased operation. This came after a long battle with the university following the newspaper’s op-ed on the removal of UTD’s spirit rocks, and coverage of a Gaza solidarity encampment on campus.
Though we have yet to see MSU or The Texas Tech System try to censor student media in the same way IU and UTD have, we should not have to wait until the fire is at our doorstep to care.
The fact of the matter is, without a free and dedicated student media, governing bodies are able to act without fear of being held accountable.
It is our job and responsibility as student journalists to remind these bodies that the students at their universities are not political talking points, nor are they statistics. They are real, living, breathing people with real stories.
COURTESY OF INDIANA DAILY STUDENT
In response to Indiana University directing the executive staff of the Indiana Daily Student not to publish news in their Oct. 16 issue, the co-editors-inchief wrote a letter about the censorship, Oct. 16.
Editor-in-Chief: Sabrina Harrison
Managing Editor: Sana Hussain
Photography Editor: Madisyn Butler
Social Media Manager: Aaron Burrows
Business Manager: Bernard Sasu Boateng
Spanish Editor: Juliette Saltos Molina
Advisor: Professor Jonathon Quam
Issue Staff: Alex Rhea, Astrith Alvarez, Carma
Hulse, Kassidi Ferguson, Manny Ortiz, Helen Hamberg, Malik Swann, Dazzirae Chumbley
Copyright ©2024.
First copy free. Additional copies $1.00 each.
If they will not fight for their students’ voices to be heard, then we will.
In light of the censorship running rampant in universities across the nation, our hope is to have a free student press that is actively and willingly fighting for the truth. If we cannot do that, then what can we do?
The Wichitan is a member of the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association and the Associated Collegiate Press. The Wichitan reserves the right to edit any material submitted for publication.
Opinions expressed in The Wichitan do not necessarily reflect those of the students, staff, faculty, administration 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 an email address, telephone number and address.
COURTESY OF INDIANA DAILY STUDENT
Jim Rodenbush was fired on Oct. 14, 2025.
Wichita Falls rallies for "No Kings"
HELEN HAMBERG REPORTER
Gray, drizzly weather didn’t dampen the spirits of approximately 300 people who gathered at Hamilton Park on the morning of Saturday, Oct. 18, for the second “No Kings” protest.
A dozen citizens from various organizations spoke to an attentive crowd. Flags, frogs and butterflies punctuated the colorful signs held by attendees who came out to support the growing movement.
The skies cleared as the event began with a welcome from organizer Beth Schuman, who reminded attendees that political polarization is fueled by fear and that the antidote to fear is community. She called on the crowd to focus on helping their neighbors.
Schuman later said the event was important “because of all the despair in the country and all the people I’ve met that say, ‘Why should we even try?’ This country was designed to be run by the people … we need to be hopeful. We need to know that where we find our power is when we combine our efforts and our resources and our minds and our thoughts and get together and raise our voices.”
The gathering featured speakers from various backgrounds: Pastor Mel Martinez of Safe Harbor Church opened with an inclusive prayer, encouraging everyone to celebrate the diversity that God created and to be united in compassion and peace.
Army veteran Blaine Purcell spoke about the Insurrection Act of 1807, the Posse Comitatus Act of 1878 and the role
of democracy. He shared a message he received from “a good Christian woman”: “If we truly believe in freedom, we must never stop trying to preserve it.”
Congress Democratic Candidate Mark Nair,told the audience: “As citizens, you do not report to a sovereign. You are not subjects. We all have a voice — but we are losing our voice with every day that goes by.” He urged collective action to build a better world.
Former District 3 city council candidate, Cathy Dodson, emphasized the importance of local elections. She noted that 89% of District 3 residents did not vote in the last election.
“The only thing that beats a lot of money is a vote,” she said, offering questions voters seeking transparency should ask candidates.
Wichita County Democratic chair Chelsea Streeter echoed the need for civic engagement. She criticized the prevalence of uncontested races and called on more people to run for local office. Streeter also highlighted the lack of adequate school funding over the past 30 years and promoted a school supply drive — particularly for Clorox wipes. Those interested in donating can contact her at chelseastreeter91@outlook.com.
Pastor Andrew Lemlyn of New Hope Presbyterian Church spoke about wealth, power and faith. He said wealth is often mistaken for worth and that “there’s a difference between faith and fandom.” He reminded listeners that “no one is above the law, and no one should be beneath our concern.”
Claudia Montoya encouraged the crowd to meet their neighbors and stand up for marginalized communities. Referring to threats against undocumented immigrants, she said, “When you have people in front of you with guns, your camera is the only weapon you have…People are terrified.
Protestors attended the event with signs protesting the current
Please help.”
Kelly Shrubs urged peaceful intervention and mutual protection. “As citizens, we can peacefully intervene,” she said. “Ask, ‘Who are you? What are you doing?’”
Jewish Voice for Peace Isaac Christiansen criticized U.S. foreign policy, including strikes on Venezuela and what he described as genocide in Gaza.
Member of the Young Democrats Joseph Adair emphasized free speech and government accountability. “He has no power if we don’t give it to him,” he said.
Traci Roberts, a recruiting specialist from the Texas Family Initiative, discussed the shortage of foster homes in Wichita County and the importance of keeping children within their communities
The event closed with music and conversations among participants. Several members of the WAC Young Democrats handed out flyers and answered questions.
"It’s important to me to let young people know that it’s important to vote,” said Nyome Munoz.
David Wilson added, “Young people have the power — we are becoming the largest generation in America today … and nobody votes. There’s an election coming up in November, and we all need to get out there and vote on the propositions across the state of Texas.”
Local voting information from the League of Women Voters of Texas is available at the Moffett Library. Election day is Nov. 4 from 7:00 am to 7:00pm. The Sikes Lake Center is one of the registered polling locations.
★ No Kings ★ No Kings ★
HELEN HAMBERG | THE WICHITAN Members of the Wichita Falls community came together for the second national "No Kings" protest, Oct. 18.
HELEN HAMBERG | THE WICHITAN
administration, Oct. 18.
Sikes House: Making a House a Home
SANA HUSSAIN MANAGING EDITOR
As students stepped through the carved wooden doors of Sikes House during this year’s President Picnic tours, they were not just entering a historic building. They were walking into the heart of Midwestern State University’s legacy.
For more than half a century, the stately mansion has served as the home of MSU Texas presidents, beginning with John G. Barker in 1974 and continuing through the tenure of current president Stacia Haynie. Though it has witnessed decades of leadership transitions, storms and celebrations, Sikes House remains one of the most enduring symbols of the university’s story.
The Oct. 8 tours gave students a rare glimpse inside the 9,626-square-foot residence. But the house’s history stretches back long before it became part of the campus.
In 1939, construction began under the direction of Louis and Glenna Sikes, a wealthy oilman and rancher from Corsicana, Texas. Louis had promised Glenna that if she agreed to move to Wichita Falls, she could have any house she wanted. True to his word, the couple built one of the most remarkable homes in North Texas.
Sixteen months later, in November 1940, the house was completed. The mansion’s design was said to resemble Mount Vernon, complete with symmetry and six hand-carved, twentyfoot columns inspired by Roman order and Greek Corinthian capitals. The wood used to build the home was shipped from Washington state and carved by hand on site. With its two stories, ten first-floor rooms, full basement and three upstairs bedrooms, the Sikes residence became a reflection of elegance and ambition.
Even today, its craftsmanship tells a story. Real marble floors,
original murals by Fort Worth artist H.C. Bennie and handcarved details remain preserved. The eighteen-foot foyer window continues to fill the entryway with natural light, just as it did when the Sikes family first walked through the door.
Decades later, however, the dream that built the house nearly brought it down. In the 1960s, Louis Sikes attempted to construct a shopping mall on his land, but the cost of the project drove him toward bankruptcy. In 1970, he sold the mansion to MSU for more than $700,000, with the agreement that he and Glenna could remain there for the rest of their lives. Louis passed away two years later and not long after, Glenna turned over the keys to MSU.
When the Barkers became the first presidential family to move in, they were tasked with transforming the house into both a private residence and a public gathering space. Mrs. Barker led much of the work, ensuring the home could host university functions while still feeling lived-in. That sense of duality, balancing personal warmth with institutional pride, has defined the house ever since.
The home’s strength was tested in 1979 during Wichita Falls’ “Terrible Tuesday” tornado. Reinforced with materials from Mr. Sikes’ oil fields, the mansion withstood the storm, while the Barker family took shelter in the basement vault. The same vault remains today, a quiet reminder of both the family’s safety and the home’s resilience.
Each president since has added a personal touch while preserving the building’s history. Some modernized living spaces, others focused on restoration. Today, Sikes House still features its original hardwood floors, marble details and antique furniture, alongside more recent additions like updated appliances and fixtures. The balance between
old and new mirrors the university’s evolution itself.
One of the home’s most storied moments came in 1997 during MSU’s 75th anniversary. Then-president Louis J. Rodriguez awoke the morning of the celebration to find the antique dining room chandelier shattered across the floor. The fixture, originally purchased by Mr. Sikes in New Orleans, was replaced with a replica that remains in the dining room today.
Stories like these give the house a character beyond its architecture. From the hidden dumbwaiter that once sent food between floors to the basement iceboxes that predate electric refrigeration, Sikes House carries the fingerprints of every era it has lived through. Even the smallest details, like the servants’ call bell system still tucked behind the walls, remind visitors that this was once a working home, filled with movement and conversation.
In the present day, Haynie continues the legacy of welcoming students, faculty and guests into the home. Events like the annual President’s Picnic bring the community together on its front lawn. The gatherings symbolize what Sikes House has become, a place where tradition meets connection.
What began as a mansion built from oil wealth has grown into something more meaningful. It is not just a residence for university leaders but a cornerstone of MSU’s identity. Its walls have seen the weight of decisions, the comfort of family dinners and the laughter of campus celebrations.
Sikes House stands as a reminder that even the grandest buildings are defined not only by their architecture but by the people who fill them.
PHOTO BY SANA HUSSAIN | THE WICHITAN
The last stop of the Sikes House tour is a sunlit living room with history of Seven Presidents.
PHOTO BY MALIK SWANN | THE WICHITAN Chandelier in the dining room replaced after the original fixture shattered on the morning of 75th anniversary celebration.
President's Picnic!
PHOTO BY MALIK SWANN | THE WICHITAN Students participate in axe throwing on the president's lawn, Oct. 15.
PHOTO BY MALIK SWANN | THE WICHITAN Kona Ice sells snow cones to eager students, Oct. 15.
PHOTO BY MALIK SWANN | THE WICHITAN Students line up to get food. Choices included burgers, hot dogs and other various sides, Oct. 15.
PHOTO BY MALIK SWANN | THE WICHITAN Students play tic-tac-toe on a giant inflatable, Oct. 15.
HOMECOMING GETS
Marketing sophomore Levi Rutledge and arts and applied sciences senior Charles Fofanah let trunk or treaters attempt to get a basket, Oct. 21.
PHOTO BY ASTRITH ALVAREZ | THE WICHITAN
PHOTO BY ALEX RHEA | THE WICHITAN Students line up for Maverick T. Mustang's 19th birthday party, Oct. 22.
PHOTO BY ASTRITH ALVAREZ | THE WICHITAN Nursing senior Marisol Mora dances to "Play Tha Funky Music" by Wild Cherry during the Redwine Honors Program performace,
PHOTO BY MADISYN BUTLER | THE WIC HITAN The geology club imitates a volcano errupting with candy for trunk or treater, Oct. 21.
PHOTO BY ASTRITH ALVAREZ | THE WICHITAN Both students and staff show up to enjoy Maverick's birthday celebration, Oct. 22.
PHOTO BY MADISYN BUTLER | THE WICHITAN Political science senior Taylor Clark attempts an inflatable obstacle course during Maverick's birthday party, OCt. 22.
PHOTO BY MADISYN BUTLER | THE WICHITAN
Business management senior Isabella Kelle her gets groovy during MSU Cheer's lipsync set to music from the '70s, Oct. 20.
PHOTO BY ASTRITH ALVAREZ | THE WICHITAN Computer Science freshman Teresa Gitau challenges trunk or treaters to scream for candy, Oct. 21.
GETS GROOVEY!
Finance sophmore Madison Brinkley, exercise phsiology junior Taryn Sueltz and biol ogy junior Ashlyn Novotny invite MSU students to their upcoming soccer game, Oct.
PHOTO BY MADISYN BUTLER | THE
PHOTO BY MADISYN BUTLER | THE WICHITAN Computer science sophomore Noah Bustard leans in to tell psychology junior Akil Edwards kickoff time for the upcoming football game, Oct. 24.
PHOTO BY ASTRITH ALVAREZ | THE WICHITAN
The Redwine Honors Program paddle along in their groovy ride during the cardboard boat race, Oct. 23
PHOTO BY DAZZIRAE CHUMBLEY | THE WICHITAN MSU students, facuilty, and alumni line up for fish and fries. This event honored oustanding alumni, Oct. 24.
PHOTO BY ASTRITH ALVAREZ | THE WICHITAN English major Victoria Perry and secondary ed-
PHOTO BY MADISYN BUTLER | THE WICHITAN (Front left) applied arts and sciences senior Kortland Kenvin, (front right) music education freshman Ali Seavert, (back left) biology sophomore Kaci Brewster, (back right) general business sophomore Rebecca Terry row towards the shore for the Golden Thunder Marching Band.
ADRIAN SALCEDO REPORTERO
EEvento de Lip Sync marca el inicio de Homecoming en MSU
l tradicional concurso reunió a cientos de estudiantes en una noche de música, disfraces y espíritu universitario. La semana de Homecoming inició el lunes 20 de octubre en el D.L. Ligon Coliseum con un animado evento de Lip Sync, que comenzó a las ocho de la noche.
La competencia sirvió como preámbulo para la coronación que se llevará a cabo el viernes durante el pep rally, donde se anunciará al campeón de Lip Sync.
En primer lugar, el equipo de porristas universitarias destacó por su excelente coreografía y sus rápidos cambios de vestuario. Con música setentera, brillo disco y una gran dosis de confianza, su presentación fue tan esperada como destacable.
Por otro lado, el Club de Estudiantes Caribeños llenó el escenario de color y alegría con sus pelucas vibrantes, provocando una de las reacciones más entusiastas del público.
Asimismo, Redwine Honors trajo el humor y la energía con una rutina inspirada en Austin Powers, que destacó por su creatividad y ambientación retro.
Cuando Alpha Phi y Sigma Alpha Epsilon fueron anunciados, los aplausos y gritos del público alcanzaron su punto máximo, ya que su presentación, con temática de Halloween, incluyó una sorprendente aparición de Michael Myers “cantando” Somebody to Love, de Queen.
Entre los asistentes se encontraba Yolanda Salas, estudiante de segundo año con doble especialidad en Español y Radiología, quien compartió su experiencia sobre el evento: “Llegué al coliseo un poco antes, así que al principio estaba casi vacío”, comentó.
“Me preocupaba que no viniera mucha gente, especialmente de mi organización. Pero al final hubo una excelente asistencia y el público estuvo muy animado.”
Yolanda asistió para apoyar a Redwine Honors, grupo que, según explicó, ha trabajado intensamente en
las últimas semanas. “La participación del público cuenta como parte de la calificación, así que tenía que estar presente para apoyar”.
Aunque fue fiel a su grupo, también destacó el talento de otros competidores: “Soy peer educator y uno de mis estudiantes participó, así
que también lo apoyé. Pero las porristas me impresionaron muchísimo. Me encantó cómo usaron sus accesorios y los cambios de vestuario”
Los equipos que avanzaron al playoff del Lip Sync fueron la Organización de Estudiantes Caribeños, las Porristas de MSU, y el grupo de Redwine Honors. El evento terminó entre aplausos y entusiasmo general. Con la emoción del Homecoming apenas comenzando, el Lip Sync no solo demostró el talento y la creatividad de los estudiantes, sino también el espíritu comunitario que caracteriza a MSU.
En definitiva, la competencia dejó claro que, más allá de la corona, el verdadero triunfo fue la energía compartida en el coliseo y el orgullo universitario que unió a todos los presentes.
Más Homecoming artículos en thewichitan.com
MSU trae festividades de Halloween espeluznantes al estacionamiento del Akin Auditorium
JENNIFER RAMIREZ REPORTERA
El martes 21 de octubre, la comunidad de MSU fue anfitriona de uno de los eventos más populares de Halloween en Wichita Falls. Este fue un evento familiar dentro de la semana de Homecoming, con entrada gratuita para el público en general.
La Oficina de Liderazgo y Participación Estudiantil organizó la actividad llamada trunk-or-treat o cajuela-o-golosina. Un trunkor-treat es un evento donde las personas decoran la cajuela de su carro y se reúnen para repartir dulces de una manera segura y divertida. Además de los dulces, hubo juegos, música a cargo de Ultra Productions y varias camionetas de comida y bebidas, como Tacos Don Pepe, Razzles Italian Ice y Squeezies Lemonade.
Numerosas organizaciones se reunieron en el estacionamiento del Akin Auditorium, de seis a ocho de la tarde, para disfrutar de un momento lleno de alegría y hacer posible el evento. Entre las que participaron se encontraban el equipo de básquetbol, las porristas, Delta Sigma Pi, Texas Roadhouse,
State Farm y Servpro de Wichita Falls.
Asistieron al menos mil personas, y por todos lados se veían sonrisas, no solo de los niños, sino también de los adultos.
Fue una noche maravillosa, llena de disfraces variados; por ejemplo, un dúo de hermanas: la menor iba vestida como el gusano de La oruga muy hambrienta y la mayor como la mariposa en la que se transforma.
Valerie Miller, madre de familia de la comunidad de Wichita Falls, comentó: “Es realmente hermoso ver cómo la comunidad de MSU se une para traer un evento seguro y acogedor para nuestros niños. En este mundo, muchos padres no se sienten seguros de llevar a sus hijos a pedir dulces de la manera tradicional, pero esto es un cambio radical para muchos padres —nosotros definitivamente estaremos aquí el año que viene”.
La noche terminó con los niños llevándose bolsas llenas de dulces y recuerdos. El evento fue un éxito, y para quienes no recibieron suficientes golosinas, muchas organizaciones en Wichita Falls estarán organizando su propio trunk-or-treat durante la semana de Halloween. MSU, sin duda, solo fue el comienzo.
PHOTO BY ASTRITH ALVAREZ | THE WICHITAN Presentación del grupo de Redwine Honors Program en el evento de lip sync en el D.L. Ligon Coliseum, Oct. 20.
PHOTO BY ASTRITH ALVAREZ | THE WICHITAN Evento familiar organizado por la Oficina de Liderazgo y Participación Estudiantil en el estacionamiento del Akin Auditorium, Oct. 21.
HOMECOMING!
La carrera de botes de cartón, un momento culminante en las celebraciones de Homecoming
MELODY DELAMARTER REPORTERA
La carrera de botes de cartón se llevó a cabo el jueves 23 de octubre en el Sikes Lake. Varias organizaciones estudiantiles compitieron para ganar este evento tradicional de Homecoming.
El equipo de Golden Thunder Marching Band obtuvo el primer lugar en una carrera desafiante, no solo contra la competencia, sino también contra la lluvia.
La carrera comenzó a las 6:00 p. m., aunque desde las 5:30 ya había muchas personas reunidas para observar a los cinco jueces que calificaron los diseños de los botes. El tema de Homecoming de este año fue “los años 70”, lo cual se reflejó tanto en los diseños de los botes como en los disfraces de varios participantes.
Debido al riesgo de tormenta, todos los equipos participaron en una sola carrera, en lugar de dos como en años anteriores. Poco después de iniciar, dos de los botes chocaron casi de inmediato, pero los participantes lograron volver a subir y continuar la competencia.
El objetivo de la carrera consistía en cruzar la parte más estrecha del lago, tocar la orilla opuesta y regresar al punto de partida. Algunos equipos no lograron completar ni la primera parte, mientras que otros vieron cómo sus botes se desbarataban en el agua durante el regreso.
El equipo de Golden Thunder Marching Band, sin embargo, lo hizo muy bien, remando de una manera rítmica, como si lo hubieran hecho toda la vida. Tanto su bote como el del equipo de Residence
Hall Association, que alcanzó el segundo lugar, logró terminar la carrera en buenas condiciones.
Avery Ondechek, miembro de Residence Hall Association, expresó: “Estuve allí en cada paso del proceso. Compré todos los materiales para ellos y los supervisé… Estoy muy feliz con cómo lo hicieron.”
Aunque algunos equipos no tuvieron éxito, el ambiente se mantuvo positivo y muchos participantes tomaron las circunstancias con buen humor. Anna Kough, estudiante de cuarto año de Geología, asistió para apoyar al equipo de Catholic Campus Ministries. Entre risas comentó: “Nos olvidamos de decirles cómo remar.” Sin embargo, añadió: “Fue una buena experiencia. Vamos a lograrlo el próximo año.”
Pep Rally de MSU en el edificio D.L. Ligon Coliseum
NATHALIE RODRIGUEZ REPORTERA
El 24 de octubre de 2025, el Pep Rally de MSU tuvo lugar en el edificio D.L. Ligon Coliseum. Este evento se organizó para crear entusiasmo entre los estudiantes y los jugadores de los distintos deportes antes de los próximos partidos. Además de las presentaciones deportivas, también se llevó a cabo un show con los finalistas del concurso de Lip Sync. Normalmente, el Pep Rally de MSU se realiza junto con la tradicional fogata (Bonfire), pero este año ambos fueron cancelados debido a la lluvia. El evento comenzó con una gran presentación de la banda de MSU, acompañada por los animadores, quienes bailaron y animaron al público en las gradas del coliseo. Luego, los dos narradores del evento aparecieron para introducir a los participantes, siendo los primeros finalistas la Organización Estudiantil del Caribe, que combinó elementos de baile de su cultura con un estilo inspirado en los años setenta.
El siguiente grupo fue el Programa de Honores
de Redwine, que también usó música de los años setenta y presentó una rutina con la aparición de un personaje de la película moderna Nosferatu. Finalmente, el tercer grupo en presentarse fueron las animadoras de MSU, cuyo tema giró en torno a una “máquina del tiempo” que las transportaba a los años setenta, destacando que, según ellas, la música de esa época era mejor que la actual.
Además de las presentaciones del Lip Sync, hubo anuncios sobre los equipos de fútbol, básquetbol y fútbol americano. Los equipos femeninos y masculinos compartieron las fechas de sus próximos partidos para invitar a los estudiantes a asistir y brindar su apoyo.
El equipo femenino de fútbol jugó el sábado contra UT Tyler a las 11 a. m. en el
parque Stang, mientras que el equipo masculino se enfrentó a West Texas A&M a las 2:30 p. m. en el mismo lugar. Por su parte, el equipo de fútbol americano jugó el sábado contra Central Washington a las 7 p. m. en el estadio Memorial.
PHOTO BY MADISYN BUTLER | THE WICHITAN Organizaciones estudiantiles compiten en el Sikes Lake con botes de cartones hechos por ellos mismos, Oct. 23.
PHOTO BY MADISYN BUTLER | THE WICHITAN Presentación de Redwine Honors Program durante el Pep Rally, Oct. 24.
PHOTO BY MADISYN BUTLER | THE WICHITAN Presentación del equipo de fútbol en
Pep Rally, Oct. 24.
PHOTO BY CARMA HULSE | THE WICHITAN Synquis Lewis, 35, dances with fellow alumni's, Oct. 25.
Nyxalee Munoz (14) fights to
PHOTO BY
MSU soccer players celebrate their game play. The Mustangs win 2-0 against West Tex. A&M, Oct. 26.
PHOTO BY CARMA HULSE | THE WICHITAN
MSU cheerleaders run with the MSU flags after Mustangs first touchdown, Oct. 25.
PHOTO BY MANNY ORTIZ | THE WICHITAN keep the ball from UT Tyler, Oct. 26.
PHOTO BY MADISYN BUTLER | THE WICHITAN
Mechanical engineering senior Vincent Peters wins homecoming king, accompanied by Imani Broad-
PHOTO BY MADISYN BUTLER | THE WICHITAN MSU football players celebrate after touchdown. The touchdown was not valid due to a holding penalty,
PHOTO BY CARMA HULSE | THE WICHITAN MSU cheerleaders lead the fans with an MSU cheer, Oct. 25.
PHOT BY CARMA HULSE | THE WICHITAN Political science, senior, Rory Rucker leads dance with alumni, Oct. 25.
PHOTO BY MADISYN BUTLER | THE WICHITAN Theater performance senior Monique Watkins wins senior homecoming queen, Oct. 25.
The Wichitan's Halloween movie picks
PHOTO COURTESY OF IMDB
Editor-in-Chief Sabrina Harrison: "Scary Godmother Halloween Spook takular"
PHOTO COURTESY OF IMDB
Managing Editor Sana Hussain: "Silent Hill"
PHOTO COURTESY OF IMDB
Photo Editor Madisyn Butler: "Twitches"
PHOTO COURTESY OF DISNEY Spanish Editor Juliette Saltos Molina: "Hocus Pocus"
PHOTO COURTESY OF DISNEY Business Manager Bernard Sasu Boateng: "Coco"
PHOTO COURTESY OF IMDB
Social Media Manager, Aaron Burrows: "Monster House"
Opinion: "The Life of a Showgirl" is not that bad
MADI BUTLER REPORTER
Y'all, it's not that bad.
Taylor Swift's new album "The Life of a Showgirl" had mixed reviews upon its release on Oct. 3. However, I think people were way too quick to judge.
Do I think it's her best album? No. Do I think it has her best lyricism? No.
Do I think that it reflects where she is at in her life where everything is a bit more fun and silly? Absolutely.
The album opens with the lead single "The Fate of Ophelia" and the main criticism is that it is not a good metaphor.
Swift has said during her press tour that Ophelia was driven mad by love (a brief summary of Ophelia's story).
In my opinion, this song is about how her now fiancé, Travis Kelce, saved her from that fate. And honestly, I think a lot of Swifties share this opinion.
But the thing is, even if it is completely accurate, it is not about Ophelia's story.
It is about Swift and Kelce. And the average listener, the people who are not entrenched in Greek lore, do not care about the accuracy of the incorporation of the Greek legend.
The next few songs on the track list include "Elizabeth Taylor," "Opalite,” and "Father Figure."
The first two songs listed are
love songs to Kelce. It is more songs about falling in love with someone who loves her and brings laughter and joy into her life.
I love “Elizabeth Taylor,” it sounds like something from “Reputation,” her sixth studio album.
However, my favorite line from this entire album comes from “Father Figure.” In the song, Swift talks about being a mentor to someone until they turn on her and try to bring her down.
During the bridge of the song, Swift sings, “I’ve got the place surrounded you’ll be sleeping with the fishes before you know you’re drowning.” This line goes so hard. Anyone who says there is no good lyricism on this album is wrong because this line exists.
Track five is called "Eldest Daughter." It is about how Swift is not as cool as she seems to be, but she is always going to protect her loved ones.
For me, this song fell flat, but I know a lot of people like it, specifically women who are also the oldest in their families.
The biggest thing with track fives is that they tend to be the most heartbreaking on the album. For example, "The Tortured Poets Department" had “So Long London,” a nod to Joe Alwyn, Swift’s previous six year relationship.
"Eldest Daughter" was just cringey. And there is nothing wrong with being cringey, but it made the song less enjoyable for me.
The next song is called “Ruin the Friendship,” and it is about someone Swift went to high school with that has since passed away, but she still thinks what if about.
Then we get “Actually Romantic” which is a sort of disstrack. It is about someone who dislikes you so much and brings it up so often. Swift refers to that kind of attention as "actually romantic” because they are always thinking about you.
The next two songs are once again about Kelce. “Wi$h Li$t” shares Swift’s lack of desire for luxury things if she can just have Kelce. “Wood” is about exactly what you think it is -- superstitions
and how she does not need them anymore because she got her wish.
The common thought was that “CANCELLED!” was about Blake Lively. However, I disagree. The album was recorded in Sweden during the Eras Tour. The Blake Lively lawsuits and her cancellation was well after.
I think it is more likely about how the media is quick to cancel people, even Swift herself, before the full stories come out. The media is quick to judge and I think this is commentary on that more than anything.
“Honey” is about all the names she’s been called and how Kelce redefined those for her. It is another love song for her fiancé. It is cute, not the best, but it is cute.
Finally, the 12th track on the album is also the title track. It features Sabrina Carpenter. The song is good. It ends with actual applause noise from the last night of the Eras Tour. I enjoyed it, but it was not my favorite.
In addition to the record breaking sales with over four million album-
has done this.
Swift said it best herself in her interview on "The Zane Lowe Show," “The rule of show business is if it’s the first week of my album release and you are either saying my name or my album title, you’re helping.”
During the release weekend, Swift released “The Fate of Ophelia” music video in theaters. She also is released lyric videos and spoke about the meanings behind each song. The three day theatrical run made $33 million.
When the album first came out, social media had mixed reviews. People did not enjoy the lyrics or the vibes of the album. But as they listened to it more, the more they liked it. And that’s true for most albums she releases. People are quick to judge, but then listen more and release that it’s not that bad.
equivalent units sold in the first week, Swift also held the top 12 spots on the billboard during the first week after the release.
Every single song was from “The Life of a Showgirl.” No other artist
I liked this album. I like pop music in general, so this was something that I enjoyed. However, not everyone likes pop, which means they may not enjoy this album as much as they did “Evermore” or “The Tortured Poets Department.” I personally did not enjoy TTPD, but I loved this album. It is not a no skip album (I will skip "Eldest Daughter" so sorry if you like that one) but I enjoy it and the vibes. Swift is in love, and personally I’m here for it.
COURTESY OF NPR
"The Life of Showgirl" release marks Swift's 12th studio album, not including her four rerecordings, Oct. 3.
COURTESY OF EYEWITNESS NEWS
Taylor Swift released her lasest album "The Life of a Showgirl" on Oct. 3, 2025. The album sold over 4 million albumequivalent units in the first week.
COURTESY OF CNN
Swift announces her new album on the "New Heights" podcast which her fiance Travis Kelce and future brother-in-law Jason Kelce co-host, Aug. 13, 2025.
Bad Bunny at the Super Bowl 2026
JULIETTE SALTOS MOLINA SPANISH EDITOR
The announcement that Bad Bunny would headline the halftime show of Super Bowl LX on Feb. 8, 2026 generated both celebration and controversy. The performance represents a significant moment in the convergence of popular music, cultural identity and mainstream American sports entertainment.
Puerto Rican superstar known for pioneering Latin trap and reggaeton Bad Bunny has become one of the most streamed global artists in recent years. The decision to feature him as the solo headliner for a Super Bowl halftime show is noteworthy as it represents a milestone in the inclusion of the Spanish language music at one of the most watched entertainment events in the United States.
Moreover, Bad Bunny made clear his intention to frame the performance as more than entertainment.
“What I’m feeling goes beyond myself … This is for my people, my culture, and our history,” Bad Bunny told ESQUIRE. The cultural dimension thus adds layers of meaning to what is typically conceived as a spectacle of light, sound and mainstream appeal.
From a production standpoint, the collaboration between the NFL, Apple Music and Roc Nation illustrates how the halftime show has evolved into a major music event platform. Reports note that Global Event Production for the NFL Senior VP Jon
Barker described Bad Bunny as representing “the global energy and cultural vibrancy” shaping today’s music scene. The context frames the show not purely as a performance but as a cultural milestone and strategic entertainment event.
Reactions to the announcement have been mixed, with praise and support on one side and significant backlash on the other.
On the positive side, Latino media and cultural commentators celebrated the choice, suggesting that the performance could spotlight Puerto Rican history and identity on a global stage.
For example, Teen Vogue’s analysis emphasized how Bad Bunny’s roots and Puerto Rico’s colonial history may inform the performance and its visual symbolism.
On social media and in entertainment circles, many welcomed the break from the tradition of the English language.
Conversely, the decision provoked substantial criticism, particularly among conservative commentators and fan groups. Analysts noted that the backlash was not solely about the music but about language, culture and identity. Additionally, a petition emerged calling for country icon George Strait to replace Bad Bunny, resulting in the collection of firms.
Bad Bunny’s selection carries multiple implications. First, it signals an increasing recognition of Latin music’s mainstream power in the U.S. market.
The fact that his announcement correlated with a measurable
increase in U.S. on-demand streams (up 26% after the announcement) suggests commercial impact and audience interest beyond the controversy.
Second, from a production and marketing perspective, the halftime show remains a cross-platform spectacle: live broadcast, streaming, social media and international reach. By aligning with an artist whose identity and language are embedded in non Anglophone contexts, the NFL and its partners are arguably repositioning the event within a globalized music ecosystem.
Finally, the backlash and counter events raise questions about the extent to which major entertainment platforms can, or should, serve as sites of cultural negotiation. The fact that the halftime show has become a flashpoint for debates over topics like language and cultural authenticity underscores how entertainment events are entangled with broader social tensions.
As we approach Feb. 8, 2026, the performance will likely serve both as a celebration and as a gauge of how audiences, industry and society engage with cultural shifts in visibility and power.
While the ultimate success of the show will depend on execution, ratings and critical reception, the choice itself marks a significant juncture. For stakeholders in entertainment, culture and sports marketing, the Bad Bunny Super Bowl halftime show exemplifies the interplay between artistry, branding and social meaning in the 21st-century media landscape.
COURTESTY OF BILLBOARD
This will be the second performance for Bad Bunny during the Superbowl. He performed at the 2020 halftime show as a guest performer, Sept. 28, 2025.
COURTESTY OF ABC7 NEW YORK Bad Bunny has had four No. 1 albums and three grammys over the course of his career.
What to expect from "Pokémon Legends: Z-A"
ALEX RHEA REPORTER
Three years since a mainline Pokémon release from Game Freak, “Pokémon Legends: Z-A” finally released on Oct. 16, 2025.
However, the entire game was leaked a few days before its debut.
Some individuals obtained the game early, either through legitimate means or not, and leaked the entire Pokédex and new Mega Evolutions of the game.
People have mixed feelings about the leak. Some view it as a massive spoiler and may have ruined the game for themselves, while others did their best to avoid it.
“Pokémon Legends: Z-A” takes place in the Kalos region of the Pokémon world, and the story of the game takes place approximately five years after the events of “Pokémon X” and “Pokémon Y.’
The game incorporates a new battle aspect other than turn-based combat. Unlike other Pokémon titles, this game employs realtime action for its combat, which occurs at a significantly faster pace, potentially intimidating players.
Since there is no turn-based combat, there is a time cooldown for each move instead of move accuracy.
In addition, like “Pokémon
Legends: Arceus,” the Pokémon in “Z-A” have no abilities that hinder the quality of some selected Pokémon and their Mega Evolutions, which is the main mechanic of the game.
Art freshman Lucy Foster has been playing “Pokémon Legends: Z-A” since its release on the Nintendo Switch.
“The gameplay felt nice, and it was really weird not having time to think about what I’ll do next turn because my options were attack or wait,” Foster said.
She also mentioned how the controls were similar to “Pokémon Legends: Arceus” except for throwing Poké Balls and sending out Pokémon, and how there can be multiple Pokémon outside of their Poké Ball at once. It can apparently get confusing when trying to catch a Pokémon and sending out your own Pokémon.
“I accidentally threw pokeballs trying to send out my pokemon too many times, but at least there’s now a guy who’ll pick them up for you and return them,” Foster added.
Foster said if this is your first Pokémon game, then you might be able to understand the story, but you will still be able to connect the dots over time.
“The story does connect slightly
to previous games, but even if this is your first game, you can still understand what’s going on. The main connection is the events of X and Y and the character AZ, but you can still figure out the specifics over time,” Foster said.
Foster described how the pacing of the game follows
a format where it is pretty easy to know what you are getting into.
“You can almost guess how many more big fights you have before stuff starts to go wrong for team MZ.”
She rated the game with a 10 out of 10, with the only downside being, “You can’t customize your key stone sadly.”
So overall, it seems like “Pokémon Legends: Z-A” is a great gameplay experience as long as you disregard the leak.
Hopefully, Game Freak and The Pokémon Company will continue making the Pokémon franchise that everyone can enjoy.
COURTESY OF GAME FREAK
" Pokémon Legends Z-A" returns to the Kalos region 5 years after the events of " Pokémon