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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! Serving Johnson, Lafayette, Pettis & Saline Counties
Drew Lewis & Todd Lewis (UCM '93) (660)747-6171 trumantitle.com
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:
Mission Statement:
The Muleskinner is a monthly student newspaper in the News Editor...................................................... MatthewMya Goldsmith Advertising Manager................................................... 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. Assistant Advertising Manager....................................Seth Dougan Sports Editor.......................................................... Matthew Goldsmith Promotions Sydney Baynham MuleskinnerManager............................................ Minute Manager........................................... Carley Taylor
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............................................................... Chief.................................................................... Katelyn at editor Muleskinner@ucmo.edu or may be mailed or Head Illustrator...................................................Victoria Cimerman and alumni. Typed orMuleskinner legibly written letters may be Illustrator.................................................................. Victoria Cimermanfacultyhand-delivered to the newsroom at 203 Designers................................... Aria Steffan and Estaban Saldaña to by Street, email atWarrensburg, Muleskinner@ucmo.edu or may be Designer........................................................................ Lauryn Morrowsubmitted East Clark Missouri 64093, which mailedis or the Muleskinner in hand-delivered Wood building,to room 312. Includenewsroom your legal at name Photographer........................................................... Lauryn Morrow Street, Warrensburg, Missouri 64093, Photography Manager.......................................................... Cole Main203 East andClark phone number for verification, or the letterwhich may not building, 312. Include yourthe legal name Photographer............................................................ Tyler Langenberg is in Wood be printed. Theroom Muleskinner reserves right to edit Reporters..................................... Meah Copeland, Annelia Nixon, letters for style, content or length. Letters should be Zayin Barnes, Katelyn Schuler, Brandon Cannon, NickNicholas DistefanoThomas,printed. Theself-edited Muleskinner reserves the right toby edit letters the Reporters...................................... Meah Copeland, brief, and must be received Monday content length. Letters be brief, self- out Paige McKinsey, Annelia Nixon, Isaac Reevesfor style, week beforeorpublication. Theshould Muleskinner comes Copy Editors............................................................... Anna Furney editedonce and amust be received by Monday the week before month. Faculty Adviser.............................................................. Dr. Julie Lewis publication. The Muleskinner comes out once a month. Faculty Adviser.......................................................... Dr. Julie Lewis