Muleskinner Vol. 114 Issue 4 Nov. 20, 2020

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• Vol. 114 • Issue 4 • Nov. 20, 2020

Active COVID-19 Cases Increase Before Break MATTHEW GOLDSMITH News Editor

as well as commencement.”

The University of Central Missouri

With fall break approaching, it is

has had an increase in COVID-19 cases,

important for students to follow COVID-19

bringing the campus total of active cases

protocols in order to keep the university’s numbers steady.

released on Sept. 4. However, the number

Morgan Wehmeyer, a senior child &

of cases is still lower than the campus’s

family development major, had to be

peak of 136 student cases.

quarantined after being exposed to two

As of Nov. 13, UCM has 42 known active

different people — within 48 hours — who

student cases and seven faculty/staff cases.

tested positive for COVID-19.

This is up from the Nov. 6 total of 16

“I had hung out with some friends on

student and six faculty/staff cases.

Jeff Murphy, assistant director for media relations, said he believes the increase on

Halloween, and we found out through The University’s COVID-19 cases remained low for 4 weeks before last week’s increase. The entire semester’s active student case numbers are graphed above. Graphic by Katelyn Oren

campus is related to local and national increases and social events on Halloween.

“There were a lot of parties going on locally, a lot of social events,” Murphy said.

them that one of them had tested positive,” Wehmeyer said. “And then I had also hung out with another person and she tested

steps to limit their exposure to their family

With many students leaving Warrensburg

positive.”

during fall break, especially those who are

for fall break and coming back to campus

vulnerable.

for two weeks, Brigdmon said it depends

concerned about returning to campus after

However, Wehmeyer said she isn’t

“We believe a lot of those activities were

Phillip Bridgmon, Provost and Vice

on the professor and class content whether

break. Since she is graduating in December

attended by students, and it’s quite likely

President for Academic Affairs, said he

or not students will have to go to in-person

and only has one in-person class, she is just

there were some cases that developed because of increase in social activity.”

Murphy said the university is monitoring the situation, but hasn’t made any changes

classes after the break. body has handled COVID-19 this year and

“It’s really contextual within the class,

understands the challenges they’ve faced.

“I think the students have been champs,”

to the plan to return to campus after fall

Bridgmon said. “It certainly hasn’t been

break. He also recommends students take

easy.”

strong,” Wehmeyer said. “So, if that means Bridgmon said. “But, operationally, we will

I’m staying home and just doing everything

be coming back after Thanksgiving and

online or coming back, I’m not super concerned with it.”

Warrensburg Old Drum Animal Shelter Raises $93,000 SKYE MELCHER Features Editor Many believe Old Drum Animal Shelter is a vital part of the Warrensburg community, to stay open.

To combat the defunding of the shelter, Old Drum and Friends Animal Shelter and the Warrensburg Animal Rescue have hosted a variety of fundraisers, including

a 5k run, garage sales and a “Paws for a

following year,” shelter manager Kayla

awareness related to animal welfare, which

Cause” fundraiser dinner.

Frank said.

has led to successful spay and neuter

As of Nov. 9, the groups have raised

UCM students and faculty have concerns

over $93,000 in the two months after the

about how defunding the shelter could

Warrensburg City Council voted to defund

affect the Warrensburg area.

the animal shelter.

“Sadly, during budget cuts, animal

The fundraisers have been hosted every

policies and improved perception of pet adoptions compared to purchases.

“This is largely attributable to local animal shelters holding adoption drives and collaborating with pet shops and vet

week, with many Warrensburg residents

resources to be cut because money is

clinics geared towards public education

stepping up to help raise money for their

needed in other essential areas,” assistant

about animal welfare,” he said.

local shelter.

biology professor Daniel M. Wolcott said.

“We have a goal of $100,000 to raise by Dec. 31 to help fund the shelter for the

Biden Elected 46th US President

Wolcott said animal shelters are great for communities because they create public

resources. JUMP TO PAGE 2

Parson Reelected Missouri Governor

MATTHEW GOLDSMITH

MATTHEW GOLDSMITH

News Editor

News Editor

Former Vice President Joe Biden was

Missouri Governor Mike Parson was re-

elected the 46th President of the United

elected, defeating Democratic candidate

States on Saturday Nov. 7, four days after

and State Auditor Nicole Galloway.

election day. The president-elect defeated

However, an underfunded shelter might try to do too much with not enough

Parson won 57.2% of the vote, compared

the incumbent Donald Trump.

to Galloway’s 40.6%. Galloway won

Biden currently has 290 electoral votes,

Jackson, Boone and St. Louis counties

exceeding the 270 necessary to be elected

along with the city of St. Louis, while

president, while Trump has earned 232

Parson won the rest of the state. Parson

electoral votes. Biden gave his victory

won 66.6% of the Johnson County vote,

speech in Wilmington, Delaware on

with Galloway at 29.9%.

Saturday, Nov. 7. Biden placed emphasis on unifying the country in his speech.

“To make progress, we must stop treating our opponents as our enemy,” Biden said.

“We are not enemies. We are Americans.”

Another major theme of Biden’s speech was dealing with COVID-19.

“We cannot repair the economy, restore our vitality, or relish life’s most precious

after taking over for Eric Greitens. After Joe Biden was elected the 46th President

the loss, Galloway will continue to serve as

Mike Parson was reelected Governor of

of the United States on Nov. 7, defeating incumbent Donald Trump. Biden currently

state auditor.

Missouri on Nov. 3, defeating Democratic candidate Nicole Galloway. Parson will be

holds a 290-232 electoral vote lead.

we get this virus under control,” Biden said.

Trump has yet to make a concession

moments — hugging a grandchild,

speech. His campaign has lost lawsuits in

birthdays, weddings, graduations, all the

Michigan, Pennsylvania and dropped a

moments that matter most to us — until

lawsuit in Arizona.

Parson spoke to supporters at the White after his win.

“This election was about preserving

“My goal was to run a campaign that would make you proud, to run a campaign

freedom, capitalism and the rule of law,”

that was accessible and responsive, a

Parson said.

campaign that you could see yourself in,

Galloway conceded at the Tiger Hotel in Columbia, Missouri.

and I believe we did just that,” Galloway said.

News

2 Muleskinner • Vol. 114 • Issue 4 • Nov. 20, 2020

Campus Ministries Continue to Worship During Pandemic

ANIMAL SHELTER CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1: Wolcott said the shelter might not have funds to house all feral cats, but might still feed them in an attempt to care for them. This can cause problems for native wildlife because the cats still have a predator drive and are loose in the environment.

Abram Tabor

Lack of funds causes issues, so

Reporter

does not having an animal shelter.

“One of the greatest disadvantages to losing an animal shelter in a smaller town like Warrensburg is the ability to use it as a lost and found resource,” Wolcott said.

Wolcott said animal shelters return a large number of pets back to their owners, and having a shelter increases the because they will have a place to look and need to keep the animals.

“Having a local shelter helps people

Benjamin Kirtley speaks to socially-distanced students at the weekly Baptist Student Union worship event. The students at the BSU continue to worship, although COVID-19 creates challenges. Kirtley said, “All three of our Community Groups have noticed that friends are less willing to attend group activities, even though we follow mask and distancing recommendations.”

Photo by Abram Tabor

Kyndal Mullins said. “It also is very helpful animals in Warrensburg.”

Mullins said she was worried how the defunding could impact the stray animal population in town and the odds of those

Illustration by Estaban Saldaña

During the COVID-19 pandemic, campus ministries have had to deal with effects on student involvement, outreach and

ministry.

“We had one donor increase support by

to several different campus ministries, including the Navigators, Risen

increases in friends taking steps of faith.

Multicultural Ministry and the Baptist

I think God is calling his church and his

Student Union. Each of these ministries

people to radical generosity in a season where that doesn’t make sense from a

operating out of home churches and others as independent organizations. However,

worldly perspective.”

Galloway said several activities have been

they all depend on donations and student

limited for everyone’s safety and to abide

involvement to operate.

by university policies.

COVID-19 and the university’s regulations

“It used to be really common to all go

have had an effect on ministry donations

out to eat at a restaurant after one of our

and student involvement, Benjamin Kirtley,

events,” he said. “Given current events,

the UCM Baptist Student Union’s associate

that would be unwise and simply unsafe.”

campus minister. The BSU receives funding

These changes have become

from local churches and people who

commonplace in many campus ministries,

support the ministry, said.

as they opt for different activities while

“Churches everywhere have seen reduced

wearing masks and gloves. Jazmyn

giving; since much of our budget is from

Smith-Reed, creative director for Risen

churches, we have also been affected,”

Multicultural Ministries on campus, said

Kirtley said.

toward the beginning of the pandemic,

The biggest change for the ministry, however, is with student involvement.

“While they are necessary, masks can

they had to address the additional challenges of how to get together safely.

“We meet in the union in the

be a barrier to building relationships,”

Multicultural Center now, but in the

Kirtley said. “Our elevated concern about

beginning, we had some real changes we

COVID-19 makes it nearly impossible

had to make there,” Smith-Reed said.

to meet new people in public areas, like

Unlike the Navigators, who are still seeing

the Union. All three of our Community

consistent turnout, Risen is seeing less

Groups have noticed that friends are less

people at their events.

willing to attend group activities, even

“Our numbers, like with members coming

though we follow mask and distancing

out to our meetings on Wednesdays, have

recommendations.”

decreased because a lot of people like to

The changes COVID-19 brought are not

stay conscious, you know,” Smith-Reed

the same for all ministries. Some have

said. “They just make sure they’re not

seen an increase in support. McCullen

doing too much outside of their room

Galloway, UCM campus director for the

activities.”

Navigators, an international Christian

Risen has not experienced changes

ministry, has been “pleasantly surprised” majority of their funding through the the Navigators have seen some increases

Student Funding Committee on campus.

Features

Muleskinner 3 • Vol. 114 • Issue 4 • Nov. 20, 2020

The Art of Performance: Drag Queens Visit UCM

MEAH COPELAND & LAURYN MORROW Reporters Drag is about performances, satire and challenging social norms, while promoting diversity and inclusion. On Oct. 21, Spotlight hosted the 8th annual Royal Blush Drag Show, featuring performers from the Kansas City area including host Dirty Dorthy and RiiRii, Miss Priscilla, Lana Luxx, Kiki Uchawi and Karmella Uchawi.

Sarah Ray Rondot, assistant professor of women, gender and sexuality studies, said a drag show is a performance where participants dress up as a different gender.

They use different gender expressions with songs, costumes and make up to celebrate gender expression. There is a wide variety of this type of performance. To Rondot, drag shows are important to people who

Kiki Uchawi created a smokey eye look for her performance at Hendrick’s Hall on the University of Central Missouri’s Campus. Kiki and Karmella Uchawi both belong to the Uchawi house and Karmella is Kiki’s drag mother. Photo by Lauryn Morrow

aren’t able to express themselves openly.

“From the students I’ve talked to and the drag shows I’ve been to on the campus, it of color who don’t have a place together,” Rondot said. “We don’t have a place for

Students appreciate the inclusivity of the performances. The presentations allow audiences to gain a better understanding

in 2013 after former UCM student Diallo

Lana Luxx performs at UCM’s 8th Annual Royal Blush Show. Luxx has been a trailblazer in the Kansas City community as an openly trans woman. She advocates for inclusion of the LGBTQ community and trans-inclusion in the drag communinity. Photo by Lauryn Morrow

way of life to better represent themselves.

The queens performed a number of

of gender identities and how they are

familiar songs and remixed classics during

performed within society.

the show. Priscilla lip-synced to “Rolling in

“I’m really glad that UCM is trying to

the Deep” by Adele and Lana Luxx played Lady Gaga’s “Plastic Doll” during her

queer people to come together. It seems really important for Warrensburg to have.”

and transgender individuals change their

on campus,” freshman education major

performance. Dirty Dorthy had everyone

Lindsey Burns said.

sing a rendition of “Over the Rainbow” by

Before this year’s show, a Q&A session

Simms, a drag performer, was approached

was held during which students asked the

by UCM grad student, Natalie Fajardo, to

performers about drag, and Simms led

costumes and up to six hours to prepare

create a function to promote diversity and

a discussion that gave a brief overview

for a performance. Lana Luxx created a

inclusion on campus. Simms coordinated

of drag culture, including information

“vagina pantsuit” for her performance. She

this event with Spotlight.

about the differences between people who

said her intention of wearing this was to

identify as transgender, drag performers

make the audience laugh, and it did.

“I think that it’s good to go in with an

RiiRii said it takes 2-3 weeks to create

open mind as an audience member because

and people who choose to cross dress. Lana

All the queens’ work and preparation

this is the most they can be themselves,”

Luxx said drag is performance-based, cross-

made the 8th annual Royal Blush Drag

Simms said.

dressing is usually for personal pleasure

Show a success.

Illustration by Victoria Cimerman

Skinner on the Street: UCM Student Perspectives

Reactions to the Election Results MADISON PRESTON Reporter

Freshman Hannah George Open Options

Senior Ally Fields Theatre

Senior Demetrius Hampton Theatre and International Studies

Junior Sam Bailey Computer Science

“I don’t really have any strong feelings one way or another,” Hannah George, a freshman open options

“I was very relieved when I saw the election results, and then, I was also excited because I feel like the past four years have been really divisive for our country,” senior theatre major Ally Fields said. “I’m really excited to see how this new administration will help the United States hopefully become more united.”

“I was very shocked but excited that there is going to be a completely different administration,” Demetrius Hampton, a senior theatre and international studies student said. “There will be so many policy changes

“I’m disappointed to see the number of people who still voted for Trump after what he’s shown to do in the past four years, but I’m pleased with the outcome of the electoral college here,” Sam Bailey, a junior computer science student said.

election I’ve been able to understand because I’ve been too young for all of the other ones. It was crazy to hear everyone’s reaction everywhere.”

the whole country rather than just a small part of the country.”

Features

4 Muleskinner • Vol. 114 • Issue 4 • Nov. 20, 2020

‘Tilikum’ Virtually Calls Out Social Injustice SKYE MELCHER Features Editor

The University of Central Missouri Theatre

alumni came together saying they wanted

and Drama department put on a virtual

to put on more diverse stories to be more

play Oct. 29 and 30 that spoke of the

representative of all students.

current social injustice and unrest within America.

“Tilikum” is a play about an orca who

area that we were in,” Ortiz said. “We just

was captured and brought to SeaWorld

decided as a department to stop being

to perform, but features parallels and

scared if we got tickets sold or not and

metaphors to point out the wrongdoings

start doing the art that we feel that needs

of slavery, racism and incarceration.

to be done.”

Although the play was virtual, the “Tilikum” cast were shown together during the last scene of the show when Tilikum, the orca animal trainer played by Shanna Sinow. Photo submitted by Shanna Sinow

Playwright Kristiana Rae Colón wrote

Bringing controversial performances to

the play after seeing the outrage and

a small town can bring to light necessary

sympathy for the orca in the documentary

perspectives. Ortiz said she hopes the

do this or I should do this because of my

members of the community who see the

color,” Gage said.

could have sympathy for a whale but not

show see the wonderful artists of color in

Many believe productions that promote

for their fellow humans.

the theater department and consider how

inclusivity and diversity make safe places

much the story affects them.

for students on campus and can create a sense of belonging.

of color, as a Latinx woman, I was a little

Senior theatre major Emily Layt was the

offended that people of color were being

assistant dramaturg for the performance,

“Doing shows like this shows that people

compared to animals,” Sabrina Ortiz,

and she said she agreed it was important

of color, we have a voice too and that voice

senior musical theater major and student

to choose this play, especially in rural

deserves to be shown through pieces and

producer, said.

Missouri.

to the public just as much as everyone

However, after hearing why the

“It’s a social justice piece,” Layt said. “It

else’s.” Gage said.

playwright made the decision, it really

touches on Black Lives Matter. It touches

“Tilikum” started a discussion in

impacted her. Ortiz said it speaks about our

on all these really important topics, and it

Warrensburg and at UCM, setting a

world and she never thought about how

moved me so much when I got to watch it.”

precedent for what the university theater

some people care more about animal rights than human rights.

Freshman theatre major Danny Gage, who played Tilikum, had an emotional

department can do for social injustice even in a virtual setting.

connection with the performance as well,

“My hope is that before I leave college,

a victory for the people of color in the

especially being African American, Puerto

UCM theatre department will become an

Theatre and Drama Department. Ortiz said

Rican and Caucasian.

open diverse place that does shows that

The decision to perform “Tilikum” was Freshman Danny Gage stands in front of a green screen during rehearsal. He changed location three times because of internet issues to record his performance. Photo submitted by Shanna Sinow

“For a long time we weren’t doing shows that were ‘controversial’ because of our

that although plays that are part of the theater department’s main stage series are

“It meant a lot to me because I have faced racism a lot in my life, and I have also been

everyone can enjoy, that everyone can be cast in, and that’s not so separated like it is right now,” Gage said.

chosen by professors, current students and

Illustration and Design Seniors Cover Gallery Walls BETHANY SPITZMILLER & SKYE MELCHER Managing Editor & Features Editor The UCM Fall 2020 Senior Exhibition

not only for the senior but also for other

features the work of graphic design,

undergrads who are following in their

interior design and illustration majors in

footsteps and will be having a senior show

the Gallery of Art & Design. The exhibition

in the future.”

was from Nov. 11-20, and featured the creations of 13 student artists.

Junior graphic design major Margarete Atatai visited the gallery to see the student

Gallery Director and Curator Christian “It kind of helps me get an idea of how gallery this semester because of COVID-19, but even while at a 10% capacity, attendance was better than last semester.

“Back in March, when we had to close down because of Covid-19, we had to put

maybe I can do mine later on,” Atatai said.

Senior Emilee Patterson is a graphic design and illustration major who showcased her art.

With the current pandemic, there were

everything online for senior show, and it

changes to the set up and format of the

was just awful,” Cutler said. “The ability

exhibition, but the nervous energy and

for someone to come in and physically

stress the seniors typically feel as they

install their hard work onto the walls and

prepare was still there.

After weeks of planning and set up by the graphic design, illustration and interior design seniors, the Senior Exhibit is a rewarding moment for students. Senior participant Emilee Patterson said, “The senior show is a chance for everybody in the art department to kind of show off their skill and where their aesthetic is.” Photo by Skye Melcher

“It’s not necessarily harder on the professors,” Patterson said. “I think it’s harder on us because we expect ourselves to make a perfect show. We put a lot of stress on ourselves.”

Even with nervous energy, it’s rewarding for the artists to see their work displayed.

“I really like my dog stickers because I’m a dog sitter on the side, and all those

might not have enough pieces or could

dogs are based off of dogs I interact with,

have too much, and the artists don’t

Patterson said. “It was fun to draw their

want to overwhelm those coming in to

sketches and give them a personality.”

Senior Moriah Dowty, graphic design and

takes a lot of time and energy, which

illustration major, agreed with Patterson

Patterson recommended replenishing with

that the senior exhibit is a special time for

doughnuts.

seniors to display their work.

“It’s a lot of fun, and if you ever have Senior Exhibition on opening day. Cutler said,“These are typically a project that they have been working on for the last year to a semester, so it’s a culmination of their degree here at UCM.” Photo by Skye Melcher

probably skipping lunch that day.”

Patterson said the worry is that they

see the displays. Setting up for the show

Gallery Director and Curator Christian Cutler and students look at the art displayed for the

us food during senior show, go for it. We’re

“They get to have the chance to show off

the urge to drop off doughnuts during the

what they’ve done, all the hard work and

setup of it, do it,” Patterson said. “That’s

the sweat and tears they have to put in for

what we always joke about in the art department, is if you ever feel like giving

get to show it off, which is a big thing.”

Opinions

Muleskinner 5 • Vol. 114 • Issue 4 • Nov. 20, 2020

Consider University Safety During Thanksgiving Break Goodbye and BETHANY SPITZMILLER Goodluck to our Managing Editor apart. Those rules apply no matter where important to include enough supplies to you are or who you’re with. Sometimes last 10-14 days.

Graduates With the heightened stress of the semester your family is just gross. Think about it.

An aspect people forget to plan for is need Thanksgiving break to relax.

However, everyone must keep in mind that there is a global pandemic and the safety of ourselves and others must come COVID-19 cases around the world are spiking again, including in the U.S. Earlier this week, the United States surpassed 10 million cases – just ten days after hitting 9 million.

If students are traveling home for Thanksgiving, they must consider the environment they’re bringing home to their families. They must also consider what they might be bringing back to

Mom. Dad. Ew. Love ya, but gross.

Preparation requires thinking in a

comfort and communication. Designate at least two people who will check in with

different way. It requires planning ahead

you daily during isolation or quarantine.

in case you suddenly have to isolate or

Mental health is always important, but can

is a necessary step to being prepared.

Being informed includes staying up

Consider where you could quarantine if

to date on COVID-19 information and

you need to. Do you have an apartment or

updating your plan as necessary. UCM

dorm room to yourself or would you need

has a process to follow if you test positive

to go home? Do you have transportation to

or have been exposed to someone who is

get there if you have to relocate? If you’ve

positive, and knowing that is important to

tested positive, public transportation is not

keeping the university community safe.

a good idea.

Have fun and enjoy break, but remember

Then, what would you pack? When creating a COVID-19 preparedness kit, it’s

to stay cautious and sanitized to protect others when returning to campus.

COVID-19 Preparedness Kit

decide to return, they must be prepared to

· Food (depending on where you are, campus dining and take-out could be options)

quarantine if necessary.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency and U.S. Department of Health &

· COVID-19 supplies (masks, hand sanitizer, digital thermometer) · Toiletries (shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, towels)

Prepared” Toolkit, which includes three

· Phone and laptop chargers

Informed.

· School supplies/Coursework

rules apply for months. Remember to wear a mask, wash your hands and stay six feet

Carley Taylor: Muleskinner Minute Manager since 2018. She started in the news section

· Towels, pillows, extra bedding

key principles: Prevent. Prepared. Be Preventing COVID-19 has had the same

Carley Taylor’s senior photo taken on the campus of UCM. Photo by Skye Melcher.

Carley has worked for the Muleskinner

· Bottled Water City recently shared their “Be COVID

The Muleskinner

quarantine. Creating an emergency plan

individual to each student, but if they do

campus. The decision to go home is

YOUR MULESKINNER FAMILY

and developed her writing skills. However, this semester she was our Muleskinner Minute Manager, producing all our video content alongside her team. She has grown

· Comfort items

so much during this semester. Carley has

· Prescription/Over-the-counter medicines *According to FEMA and U.S. Department of Health & Human Services

Illustration by Aria Steffan

been an amazing friend and manager to members of the Muleskinner staff. She has always been there to lend a helping hand

Mashed Potatoes 2 pounds potatoes 1/3 to 1/2 cup milk 1/4 cup softened butter

1/2 tsp. salt Dash of pepper

and to place tiny plastic babies in weird places all over campus. We hope you come back to visit and tell us all about your new career at The Comets.

Peel and boil potatoes, then drain. Mash potatoes until no lumps remain. Beat in milk in and pepper; beat vigorously until potatoes are or toppings.

Katelyn Oren’s senior photo taken in her

Pumpkin Pie 8-Inch Pie Crust 1 egg 1 1/4 cups pumpkin 2/3 cups sugar 1/4 tsp. salt

3/4 tsp. ground cinnamon 1/4 tsp. ground ginger 1/8 ground ground cloves 1 1/4 cups evaporated milk

hometown of Greenwood, Missouri. Photo

by Kayla Hayden

Katelyn Oren: Design Chief the Muleskinner, and she took on the challenge of redesigning and rebranding

Heat oven to 435°. Beat eggs with hand beater, and beat in remaining ingredients. Place pastry-lined pie plate or pie crust on oven

the paper. She has created many impressive

oven temperature to 350°. Bake 35 more minutes. Top with whipped cream.

She is an amazing leader and a great friend

designs, but more impressive was her ability to coach her team of designers and

who is always there to offer a ride or eat fried pickles. Your Muleskinner family wishes you all the success in the world as you graduate and move to Las Vegas. If you ever need anything, you know where to

Illustration by Victoria Cimerman

Sports

6 Muleskinner • Vol. 114 • Issue 3 • Oct. 23, 2020

Intrasquad Football Scrimmage Makes a Difference MATTHEW GOLDSMITH

Although the Mules were helping out the

News Editor The Central Missouri Mules football team played in an intrasquad scrimmage on

community through donations to the food center, the team was still disappointed about having a scrimmage against another team canceled.

the defense 30-23.

The event was a replacement for the scrimmages with Washburn and Northwest Missouri State, which were cancelled in the last two weeks after the opposing teams had COVID-19 cases.

The scrimmage had no charge for entry, but fans were encouraged to donate to the Mules football food drive. The event produced roughly 200 pounds of food and $96 in donations. The proceeds were donated to the Warrensburg Food Center, Manna Harvest and Early Childhood Hunger Operation.

“I was kind of bummed out about not being able to play a team that’s not the Mules,” senior quarterback Kyle Bradley said.

Bradley has found ways to remain positive despite the scrimmage cancellations.

“You just got to think of it in a positive aspect and just try and make the most of the opportunities and the practice we get

The University of Central Missouri Mules football team competes in an intrasquad scrimmage at Walton Stadium on Sat. Nov 14. The event was organized after scrimmages with Washburn University and Northwest Missouri State University were cancelled. Photo by Matthew Goldsmith

they are still going at it with their fastThe scrimmage was a growing experience for the Mules’ young players and Bradley said he thinks getting to be in them.

“I think just being able to see some actual game-like situations and

paced style of football. teams coordinator, said he has been

UCM Mulekickers dance team, along with

impressed by the squad this year and was

the marching band and color guard, were

disappointed they didn’t get to compete

also set to perform.

against another team.

“It was time for us to hit another color Westphal said he wasn’t surprised by the Washburn cancellation and realizes the

their most successful seasons in recent

challenges COVID-19 and this year has

memory. The team went 11-2, clinched

brought.

a share of the MIAA conference title and advanced to the NCAA Division 2 Two offesive players hip bump each other after a successful play. The offense won the scrimmage.

Photo by Matthew Goldsmith

Bradley said he has liked what he has

Mulekickers captain Allyson Miller said the dancers were disappointed by the lack of a fall season and the cancellation of the Washburn scrimmage.

Miller said the Mulekicker experience COVID-19 and all the challenges that

“The year that we’re living in, you can’t really take anything for granted,” Westphal said.

seen from this year’s group so far, and

The football team isn’t the only team

Kyle Westphal, the Mules special

jersey,” Westphal said. them,” Bradley said.

able to practice.

have come with it.

Despite the challenges, the Mulekickers and many of the teams have used this year

Westphal said after 2-3 months of quarantining, they are excited to just be

as a bonding experience.

“We’ve all gotten really close this year,”

Have a Great and Safe Holiday Break!

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Sports

Muleskinner 7 • Vol. 114 • Issue 4 • Nov. 20, 2020

UCM Basketball Season About to Tip Off

Jennies Expect to Make Impact MEAH COPELAND Reporter Last year, the Jennies Basketball team won 27 games and lost four. They had multiple

better each year.

MuleNation Graduation Celebration MuleNation Graduation Celebration

During the offseason, multiple players

players who earned high awards and head

tested positive with COVID-19 and that put

coach David Slifer was named MIAA and

them behind on conditioning and weights.

WBCA Central Region Coach of the Year.

However, they still have had practices since

The team lost two starters, but they also

mid-October to prepare for tipoff.

signed seven freshmen to the team early

VanHyfte said she is looking forward to

this year. It will be a learning experience

enjoying every moment being on the court

for the team, but coach Slifer said he

with the other players.

thinks the team can have similar success to last year.

“We lost some good players, but also

“Having the season being taken away from us at the last second before the MIAA Tournament, I took that for granted and

gained new players.” Slifer said. “We have

assumed that we would play. Now with

solid returnees and there will be new

everything that’s going on, not every game is guaranteed, and I want to enjoy every

Slifer also said Nija Collier, senior forward and guard, averaged a double-double in

game,” VanHyfte said.

Slifer said as players prepare, some fans

points and rebounds last year, senior guard

can expect to attend games. However,

Gigi McAtee came through last season and

UCM is expected to have a 25% capacity in

senior Morgan VanHyfte keeps getting

the Multipurpose building.

Nov. 30–Dec. 4, 2020

Smiser Alumni Center the Nov. 30–Dec. 4,in2020

Student Union in the Smiser Elliott Alumni Center Elliott Student Union The UCM Alumni Foundation invites all 2020 graduates — spring, summer and fall — to a weeklong MuleNation Graduation Celebration!

The UCM Alumni Foundation invites all 2020 graduates — spring, summer and fall — to a Run, don’tMuleNation walk, to be one of the firstAlumni 150 graduatesCelebration! to get a weeklong Graduation The UCM Starbucks gift card to get you through finals week! Everyone can enter for a chance to win a diploma frame and pick up a swag bag and a UCM pennant for your new work space!

Foundation invites all 2020

Run, don’t walk, to be one of the first graduates to get a graduates —150 spring, graduation at our photo wall week! and signEveryone up for a StarbucksTake giftyour card to get pictures you through finals can MuleNation chapter in yourand area to stay in touch friends and summer fall —withto a enter for a chance to win a diploma frame and pick up a swag network with more than 100,000 alumni across the world! bag and a UCM pennant for yourMuleNation new work space! weeklong

Graduation Celebration!

Take your graduation pictures at our photo wall and sign up for a MuleNation chapter in your area to stay in touch with friends and The UCM Alumni Foundation welcomes you! network with more than 100,000 alumni across the world! ucmfoundation.org/mulenation

The UCM Alumni Foundation welcomes you!

ucmfoundation.org/mulenation

MuleNation Graduation Celebration

TOP RIGHT: Guard Madison Cook aims to pass the ball to guard Ali Vigil. TOP LEFT: Guard Adria Costley and guard Nija Collier push each other out of way to get a better position on the court. BOTTOM: The Jennies Basketball Team practice for their upcoming game on Nov. 24 at home. The men’s team was unavailable because of quarantining team members. Photos by Meah Copeland

Mules Ready to Return to the Courts MEAH COPELAND Reporter As the season is about to start, the Mules basketball team has been limited to practicing because of the UCM COVID-19

The UCM Alumni Foundation invites all 2020 graduates — spring, summer and fall — to a weeklong MuleNation Graduation Celebration!

Pinkley also said the team has to take one game at a time and if they focus on that, then it would lead to a successful season.

Coach Karleskint said the toughest

policy and number of people who have

opponent will be Northwest Missouri State

been in quarantine. Head coach Doug

because they are a very good team with great players. He also said Pinkley was one

to operate day to day during the COVID-19

of the team leaders because he had a great

pandemic. He also said that the talent level

season last year and he shows the new

is there and they have good returnees.

guys around the program.

“We have a bunch of new guys and with

Nov. 30–Dec. 4, 2020

Smiser Alumni Center in the Elliott Student Union

Run, don’t walk, to be one of the first 150 graduates to get a Starbucks gift card to get you through finals week! Everyone can enter for a chance to win a diploma frame and pick up a swag bag and a UCM pennant for your new work space!

Take your graduation pictures at our photo wall and sign up for a MuleNation chapter in your area to stay in touch with friends and network with more than 100,000 alumni across the world!

“I think that we are ready to play because

no preseason, it’s hard for them to learn

we are anxious to get on the court.”

the new materials,” junior Gavin Pinkley

Karleskint said. “The guys have been shut

said. “I think so far they have adapted

out since March, and they just want to play

well.”

basketball.”

The UCM Alumni Foundation welcomes you!

ucmfoundation.org/mulenation

Sports

8 Muleskinner • Vol. 114 • Issue 4 • Nov. 20, 2020

Senior Spotlight: Jacqueline Garcia-Ulloa Morales ZAYIN BARNS

Illustration by Aria Steffan

Reporter Senior Jacqueline Garcia-Ulloa Morales

of somebody who comes from a completely

had bowling in her blood, but she started

different background and was able to

earlier than expected. At 12 years old,

provide not only a great player but unique

Morales’s grandfather needed open-heart

leadership,” bowling coach Ronald Holmes said. “The biggest thing she has been able

his spot on his bowling league. Although skills show.”

After a year, her uncle signed her up

Morales is still unsure of what the future

for state competitions, where she made

holds for her, but she currently plans to

the Mexico youth team and earned the opportunity to compete for nationals in

work there for a few years before returning

Mexico. This was just the start of her

home to Mexico to see her family.

bowling career.

Since the bowling team is not a part of

Morales was born and raised in Mexico, but traveled to different countries, including the United States, Columbia and Panama, through her bowling experiences.

When it was time for college in August 2017, Morales brought her talents to

the MIAA but is in the GLVC, they had an Jacqueline Garcia-Ulloa Morales bowls in the UCM Elliott Union Bowling Center during the 2019 fall semester. Since age 12, she has been a competitive bowler. Garcia-Ulloa Morales’ homeland is Mexico and has adapted to the American collegiate league. Photo submitted by Jacqeline Farcia-Ulloa Morales

in January. However, since the GLVC was not going to test the athletes prior to competitions, UCM President Roger Best decided it was in the school’s best interest

Warrensburg. Morales is an industrial

practice. I have gotten to know her during

engineering major at UCM and a starter

COVID to where we would talk almost

Morales said. “For example, the ball that

on the bowling team. Morales said her

every day, and she was very supportive

you are using, the oil pattern that is put on

best year of bowling was her junior year.

and helpful with me coming into a new

the lane, how many people have played on

scrimmages to have us play with teams

She was named to the Great Lakes Valley

environment along with being away from

the lane, if you are a right or left-handed

that would likely be tested, so we have

Conference All-Conference team, was part

home.”

player, there are so many aspects to take

something before we start in January,”

into consideration when you want to bowl

Morales said.

Morales has also overcome challenges averaged 191.3 points per game.

Senior Madison Baxter, Morales’s

during her career. Coming from an international background, the sport

“It was a lot of learning new stuff,”

opportunity to start a shortened season

good.”

to pull the team from the season for this semester.

Normally, the bowling season runs from

This did not stop Morales from

early October to mid-April, but with the

teammate, said, “She is really sweet and

itself was different in Mexico than in the

succeeding in college.

COVID-19 pandemic, the team will wait

funny and always brightens up the day at

American collegiate leagues.

“I think Jackie has been a great example

until January to hold competitions.

Muleskinner Staff: Staff: Managing Bethany Spitzmiller ManagingEditor...............................................

Editor....................................................

Bethany Spitzmiller

Mission Statement:

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The Muleskinner is a monthly student newspaper in the News Editor......................................................

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Richardson The Muleskinner is a monthly student newspaper in the Communication Department at the UCM and operates Features Editor........................................................... Skye Melcher Communication Department at the University of Central in association with the Digital Media Production News Editor............................................................... Madelyn Harrison Missouri and operates in association with the Digital Media program.

It is a news lab for students.

Advertising Manger................................................ Colby Crowder Features Editor.................................................................

Skye Melcher Production program. It is a news lab for students.

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Letter to Editor:

Muleskinner Minute Manager..................................... CarleyLouie TaylorSharpLetters to Editor: Copy Chief.........................................................................

Letters to the editor are encouraged. Typed or legibly written letters may be submitted to the Muleskinner by Design Katelyn OrenOren Lettersemail to the are encouraged from students, DesignChief...............................................................

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