October 2021 Vol. 115 Issue 3

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• Vol. 115 • Issue 3 • Oct. 22, 2021

Campus Recycling Efforts End Up in the Trash EMMA FISCHER Reporter

Every day, plastic bottles, cardboard and pieces of paper are chucked into the recycling bins throughout campus, and every day, those recyclable materials are taken to the landfill. In previous years, the local company Heartland Waste handled campus trash and recycling services. However, over the summer, the national company Republic Services bought Heartland Waste and took over operations. Unlike Heartland Waste, Republic does not offer recycling services.

In a City Council interview earlier this month, City Manager Danielle Dulin spoke with Tyler Riordan, the municipal sales manager for Republic Services in Warrensburg. “We did have to make the difficult decision to temporarily suspend the recycling service,” Riordan said. “Some recycling facilities that we’ve used for years have shut down … Really we’re trying to do our due diligence as far as analyzing the Warrensburg market and what we can do for a recycling program.” Riordan mentioned that the company

Republic Services trucks sit next to Heartland Waste’s old trucks. Republic acquired Heartland on July 21. Republic mechanic Tru Devine said they are working on getting Heartland’s trucks “road ready” to meet their safety standards.

should have some answers on whether or not recycling services will return in November. However, while waiting on that decision, students are navigating a campus without the same recycling options. “I [recycle] at home, and I also recycle here, or at least I thought I was recycling here,” freshman business management major Javon Hampton said. Like other students and staff, Hampton was unaware that the campus no longer had recycling. “It’s wrong … to keep something like that private because there are people that believe that they’re doing a good deed — that they’re recycling, and the whole time, they’re not,” Hampton said. Hampton said he believes there are people on campus who would look for other recycling solutions if they knew they were unable to recycle at UCM. Andrew Forgette, entrepreneurship and social networking major, said he recycles when it’s convenient for him. However, Forgette agreed recycling should be done more often. “Something on this scale is not up to just me,” Forgette said. “Maybe the university should have said something.” Open options freshman Brianna Stai was also unaware about the lack of recycling.

“It’s weird because everywhere else I’ve been, they offer recycling services ... My roommate [and I] have a recycling bin in our room and we take it out to the bin outside every Sunday,” Stai said. Some staff members are not aware of the changes that have been made. Assistant Custodial Manager Matt Metcalf has been working with Republic Services to organize trash collection on campus. “Even though [the bins] say recycling, it is going to the trash,” Metcalf said. Metcalf said that the recycling cans are still in use, but that they are used as extra trash cans. “People are still going to put, by nature, plastic bottles in the plastic bottle containers … if we didn’t have those, our trash would be overflowing in our regular trash cans,” Metcalf said. Jeremiah Robison, who oversees the Office of Sustainability on campus and is the assistant director of student activities and outdoor education, said his office is waiting for further information from Republic Services. “What we want to do is encourage those habits of trying to recycle everything we can on campus so that when those services are restored, we don’t have to then build that knowledge once again,” Robison said.

Campus Security Installs 300 Cameras Throughout Campus ABRAM TABOR Reporter

This summer, UCM’s Department of Public Safety completed a two year project to install security cameras on the Warrensburg campus. This project involved two phases. The first phase created policies for the surveillance systems and updated existing cameras, which was a total of 76 cameras. The second phase added more coverage across the whole campus, particularly for university buildings, which was a total of 300 cameras. “We didn’t have a lot of cameras on campus,” Bill Brinkley, interim director of Public Safety, said. “As time went on, students came to campus, and we would take a report, and they would say, ‘Don’t you have cameras?’ So, the expectation was that there are cameras here. Well, there weren’t in years past.

We’ve worked towards it for a long time, and now we finally have them.” The cameras have already proven helpful in multiple cases. They recently aided the department in tracking down an individual who robbed multiple vehicles in the parking lots. “Most every case now we can go back and look and see if we have footage,” Brinkley said. “Now the answer to ‘Don’t you have cameras?’ can finally be ‘Yes.’” Most students did not know about the recent increase in security cameras, or at least how big it was, as it happened over the summer. “I already thought there was that many cameras,” Nathalie Colindres, freshman digital media production major, said. “I thought that was the baseline, like that’s what would be in a college. So, I didn’t realize that there was so little before and now there’s so many.”

Some students are more unsettled by the number of cameras around campus. “I don’t know, I mean that does put me at suspicion,” junior psychology major Deniro Peterson said. “It’s sort of like I’m being watched.”

Cameras outside the Elliott Student Union were installed to cover all entrances to campus and university buildings in phase two of Public Safety’s two year project. Photo by Abram Tabor.

News

2 Muleskinner • Vol. 115 • Issue 3 • Oct. 22, 2021

University Closes Nattinger-Bradshaw COVID-19 Cases Decrease, Masks Continue OLIVIA GIBBS

MATTHEW GOLDSMITH

Reporter

News Editor

As of Oct. 15, the University of Central Missouri has 10 known active student COVID-19 cases and two faculty/staff cases. Student case numbers on campus have gone down in the last month, as there were 17 student cases reported on Sept. 17. Junior marketing major Michael Cadwell works at the Elliott Student Union and said the biggest change he’s seen during COVID-19 is the smaller number of students at the Union, while noting it has increased this year. Cadwell said he has had COVID-19 and wouldn’t wear a mask while at the Union if UCM’s mask mandate is lifted.

“I think there’s a lot of students on campus that would be comfortable not wearing masks, and I think if you’re not comfortable, wear a mask,” Cadwell said. Sophomore biology major Urja Doshi said that this school year has been better for her than her freshman year, as all of her classes are now in person. Doshi said she doesn’t care whether or not the university has a mask mandate. “At this point, I think everything is normalizing, so it’s okay if we don’t have masks,” Doshi said. “I really don’t mind if people do have masks, and I don’t really mind if we don’t.”

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The University of Central Missouri plans to begin the demolition of Nattinger-Bradshaw this coming spring. Built in 1963, the halls were named after former faculty members Maude Nattinger and Pearl Bradshaw and were home to the Nursing SHIP. Photo by Meah Copeland

Nattinger-Bradshaw, a residence hall located on the west side of UCM’s campus, will not be reopening to house students and will be returning to green space on campus. Senior Director of Housing Brenda Moeder said Natt-Brad was not up to university standards. “The university, in conjunction with our maintenance team, contracted with a company to do building assessments and look at everything structural about the building — the electrical, the plumbing, the envelope of the building,” Moeder said. “Through all of their reviews, NattBrad was at the lowest.” Moeder said the university originally planned to remodel the building, but after receiving the scores, realized it would be too expensive to fix the repairs on the building without adding any additional renovations. A decision like this can take several months to finalize, as multiple departments at the university and outside contracting companies have to complete details beforehand. “Once we knew [the university] was on board, then it was a process for a scope of work to be written for a bid, for a curement to get the word out on the street, for companies to bid on the demolition of the building but also the abatement of the building,” Moeder said. Junior nursing major Ashlyn Kordula said she is sad to see Natt-Brad go.

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“I lived in Natt-Brad my freshman year on the nursing SHIP, which made it so much easier for all of us to study together,” Kordula said. “It’s upsetting that they’re tearing it down. I made a lot of friends and memories there.” Payton Christensen, a junior secondary education English major, doesn’t have the same fond memories of Nattinger-Bradshaw. “It needed to be redone,” Christensen said. “It was kind of gross. Things needed to be cleaned all the time, and a lot of things were broken.” The university has tentative plans to begin demolition in the spring of 2022.

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Muleskinner 3 • Vol. 115 • Issue 3 • Oct. 22, 2021

Campus Leaders Strive for Diversity and Inclusivity MULESKINNER STAFF Reporters and Editors

Senior music technology major Alia Peoples said she has been able to find her place within a predominantly white organization but acknowledges the cultural difficulties she faces in a predominately white school. “When I first came to UCM, it was intimidating like anything, but I started to get involved because I knew I wouldn’t have a good experience unless I got involved,” Peoples said. “It was hard because I came from a high school where it was predominately white Students gather to discuss issues and concerns with University of Central Missouri President Roger Best after the State of the University Address on Sept. 16 at and Hispanic students. I the W.C. Morris Science Building Nahm Auditorium. Photo by Trevor Martin am used to having that environment around me, I am glad I found my people, but it is an Instagram post by a SGA social media no longer a part of SGA,” Tremain the free speech wall displayed by the adjustment.” committee member. said. “We have put precautions in American Democracy Project. Since Many students are challenged by Hampton explained his comment was place where our social media chair this issue, students have continued to finding their community during their intended to hold SGA accountable for is required to sign a contract with speak out and ask for change. college experiece. According to the diversity and inclusivity. instructions on what they can and President of the Association of Black Fact Book for Spring 2021 enrollment After the comment was deleted, can’t monitor.” Collegians Colby Crowder has had the by ethnic origin of the University of Hampton shared the information with UCM President Roger Best said he unique experience of being involved Central Missouri is 74.5 percent white other Black students across campus. supported the decision of allowing with both ABC and SGA. He says he and 6.5 percent is Black. “They were outraged because SGA students in leadership positions to was one of the first students to see the The issues that Black students face claims to be the voice of the students,” learn to make decisions. racial slur. on UCM’s campus cannot be addressed Hampton said. “With SGA, we want to see the “One student was particularly upset without the involvement of the Then, on April 22, the Association of leadership of those organizations be and crying,” Crowder said. university’s leadership. Black Collegians student organization a part of the solutions rather than us After the incident with the racial Lover Chancler, director of the Center hosted a town hall on campus to telling them what to do,” Best said. slur, some Black students sat in during for Multiculturalism and Inclusivity, express frustration over issues Black “We have advisers, we meet with SGA the President’s State of the University has worked closely with Black students students face and attempted to hold to help to guide and mentor them.” Address. After the address, the for years. The center provides a place the Student Government Association In regard to what SGA has done students spoke with Best. where people of all backgrounds can accountable for silencing Black voices. beyond social media barriers Tylan Carter, sophomore digital come to find their space and support. Chancler stated that the center is to make the organization more media production major, was one The center also helps connect these supporting the Association of Black diverse and inclusive, Tremain said student who approached Best. students to different resources, Collegians and their student groups to the organization has four Black “It was important to be heard and organizations and Student Support strive for equity. students who are directly involved talk to President Best,” Carter said. “It Services. “We are working with them to in their committees and 14 students is heartbreaking to hear stories from Students who may feel excluded see if there is a way we can get who represent as resident student people who look like me go through or have an issue can find support on representation,” Chancler said. “We organization members, who attend systemic racism.” campus. Chancler urged students to are in the beginning stages of figuring SGA on behalf of other organizations. Graduate student Brandon Cannon visit the center located in the Elliott out what that is.” Tremain further addressed SGA’s has been on campus for eight years, Student Union. During the town hall, former SGA progress toward inclusivity and isn’t and he said he has spoken with Best “I say, students, find your president Justin Cobb apologized to finished making changes. and previous University President community,” Chancler said. “We are the audience, and explained how SGA “We have an inclusivity committee Chuck Ambrose about how diversity here to support our students and find would strive for the incident to not where every person has to meet with and inclusion have been addressed them a space. The center is where you happen again. RSOs who have to meet with an over the years. can find your community.” “Due to the kind of awkward organization that falls under culture Cannon mentioned that his For many years, Black students bicameral system of SGA, there and identity, governance, religious or experience with predominantly white have found a community together on actually was about eight people who special interests. This is done to keep groups at the university hasn’t always campus. had access to the account,” Cobb said. these organizations that may not be been negative but acknowledges there “Historically, overall, the experience I “The reasons that were given to me to represented directly in SGA in the are issues. hear from Black alumni was that their delete the comment were insufficient loop,” Tremain said. “I feel like I individually have been time here was memorable,” Chancler for me.” Hampton explained he feels treated fairly by the administration, said. “There are several women who Shari Bax, vice president of student frustrated with the university and but there are some things that we see are UCM alumni in the ‘80s and ‘90s. experience and engagement and wants more momentum throughout other organizations do on campus that Many of them talk about how they felt SGA adviser, discussed how the student organizations. the Black organizations have difficulty included and had a community.” administration played a role when the “Organizations like SGA believe doing, so it’s more of an organization However, Chancler added there’s incident with SGA took place. that simply partnering with another issue,” Cannon said. been a shift in feedback in the last “Because it was SGA social media organization is the solution, but it Peoples said she doesn’t feel the issue couple of years, saying students now and SGA students were managing it, is not when minority students say of not being approached by white feel like they don’t have the same the administration wasn’t going to they don’t feel included,” Hampton groups and students on campus is community that others did in the past. step in and take action,” Bax said. said. “It’s because we lack funding, or racially motivated. “I don’t know if it’s a change in the “We were going to advise them. Beth when we do events, the only people “I feel like it’s not a racist thing,” fact that the majority feel this way or Rutt and I helped SGA officers create that attend are people of color. The Peoples said. “People feel a cultural if those that are disheartened are now that agreement, but ultimately, those organizations can try to partner and difference not to approach me, so I feel speaking up,” Chancler said. decisions were on the students.” try to do collabs and say that we are the need to stick out or code switch There have been incidents during Since then, some students say they diverse and inclusive, but until you at times. I feel like, as a Black person, 2021 and many students are calling desire more progress. bring Black students into those spaces you have to do that in general because for action. Current SGA President Cade Tremain as graduate assistants, board members our culture isn’t the norm. It shouldn’t On April 13, graduate student discussed the SGA social media and leaders, we are not diverse or be that way.” Dominique Hampton’s comment about incident and what has happened since. equitable.” the Student Government Association “We in no way support the decision On Sept. 16, there was an incident Michael Lewis contributed to story election was removed from an of that student, and that person is in which a racial slur was written on

News

4 Muleskinner • Vol. 115 • Issue 3 • Oct. 22, 2021

UCC Residence Hall Closes After Electrical Failure ABRAM TABOR Reporter

On July 18, the power went out at the University Conference Center residence hall because of an electrical transformer failure. Since then, the building has remained closed, and it appears uncertain if it will ever reopen. After a quick investigation, the university contacted Evergy, an electric services company, to further assess the damage and possibly make repairs. “The thought was that it was the transformer that feeds the building had shot, maybe a squirrel or that kind of thing,” Brenda Moeder, senior director of University Housing, said. “So, they took a closer look at the building and found out that it was actually the transformer within the building. The exterior feeds the building, the interior transformer takes that power and puts it into manageable units to make the building operate. That unit had a catastrophic failure.” The average expectancy for an industrial transformer is 20 years, while the one in the UCC was originally built in 1963. With the age of the transformer being beyond traditional repair, the university considered the costs of replacing it. “It was between $175,000 to $200,000,” Tim Castilaw, the associate vice president of Facilities Planning

and Operations, said. “Another aspect of it was the time that it would take to actually get the transformer. Because of the age of the building and the age of the transformer, they’re not readily available. So, it was going to take almost 30 days to get a transformer here, if not longer.” Taking into account the time frame and costs, it was determined that the building would not be ready for the fall 2021 semester. Additionally, the building was completely without power during a humid, Missouri summer. To avoid any damage, the university made the decision to move out the beds, chairs and other furniture from the building to storage. “We had probably a hundred people,” Custodial Services Manager Debora Williams said. “We actually formed a line from the top floor, and then there was people in the stairwell. Everybody just handed them down, and it went into the truck and then off they went.” Even after the hall had been cleared of furniture, there still remained the problem of the 176 students who were assigned to live there this fall. “I think that we were well prepared, given all our challenges we faced last year with COVID,” Jay Hicks, director of Business Operations & Residential Leadership, said. “We reassigned everyone within about 48 hours. We

The UCC is on the east side of UCM’s Warrensburg campus and formerly housed the SHIPs for Art & Photography, Criminal Justice and Music. Photo by Abram Tabor.

were able to act quickly and get it done, and done right. I think we did our best under the circumstances.” Special Housing Interest Programs in the UCC were kept together, as were suitemates and roommates. Students paying for a single room also kept their status. SHIPs were moved into South Ellis and students who had applied for a single room were reassigned to South Todd. “I’m not going to be persnickety and say it ruined my whole mood, or be dramatic or anything, but now I’m on a total opposite side of campus, and

it’s weird,” junior graphic design major Xavier Langston said. Langston was reassigned to South Todd along with other single room students. “I chose UCC because I was like, ‘Okay, I know this part of campus and all the classes I need to take are on this part of campus,’” Langston said. “I’m not going to complain because they got me in a single room, and they made sure I had the same suitemate. So that’s cool, but it’s a lot more inconvenient, not as convenient as Ellis was.”

News

Muleskinner 5 • Vol. 115 • Issue 3 • Oct. 22, 2021

Transfer Students Change the Institution but Continue Learning YOHANNES GIRMA Reporter

Freshmen aren’t the only students who experience the university for the first time. According to UCM’s website, “Nearly 1,200 students transfer to UCM every year” from a community college or another university. Junior psychology major Jenelle Roberts is one of the many transfer students at the university who transferred from Metropolitan Community College over a month ago. “My community college was a lot smaller and felt like a community,” Roberts said. “People knew each other, you saw the same students repeatedly, the campus was close to home. I’m also not the best at socializing, but I have joined a club recently.” The university has over 200 student organizations with a variety of categories. In addition to getting accustomed to campus life, the learning environment can also be a different experience for transfer students. “I would jokingly say community college was a continuation of high

school,” Roberts said. “Here, it’s ‘Here’s your book, you’re going to learn this yourself.’ While community colleges do that, they didn’t do it to the extent they do it here. It almost felt like a stepping stone.” Roberts is not the only transfer student having to get used to campus life. Junior computer science major Andrew McLaughlin transferred from St. Charles Community College to the university this semester. McLaughlin said meeting other students has been a challenge. “Meeting new people is hard,” McLaughlin said. “I knew students would have known each other and formed their own cliques. I was a bit nervous, especially because I’m an introvert. It’s really difficult, and I am socially awkward. I have joined a fencing club, but I’m still working on being social.” Although the transfer transition takes time to get used to, both Roberts and McLaughlin said they are glad to have started at a community college first. “I’m very happy I started at a community college,” McLaughlin said.

“Starting at community college saved me lots of money. In fact, I’m going to be taking one more General Education course at my previous community college this upcoming summer.” “Starting at community college was the best path for me because I pretty much received a full scholarship and got my general education out of the way,” Roberts said. Junior digital media major Isaac Roberson also chose to attend community college first because of the financial benefits. After high school, Roberson went to WPU on a wrestling scholarship. However, he transferred from William Penn University to UCM this year. “At the end of wrestling season, I started to lose love for the sport and wasn’t content about where I was at in my life,” Roberson said. “UCM was a college I was always looking at, so I made the switch.”

Even with the challenges that come from transferring, Roberson said he wouldn’t change where he started even if he could. “If I started here [at UCM], I would have never found out wrestling wasn’t for me,” Roberson said. “My past made me who I am today. I feel like it was the path of my life.”

Graduate Students Continue Their Education YOHANNES GIRMA Reporter

Walking across the stage on graduation day for a bachelor’s degree is a dream for many students. While some see their bachelor’s as the final destination, it’s just the beginning for students who choose graduate school. Mohamad Hammoud Dib earned his undergraduate degree in business at the American University of Lebanon. After graduating in December 2020, Dib came to the University of Central Missouri to earn an MBA in management. Dib said even though he graduated with a high GPA while being heavily involved on campus, finding a job was almost impossible. Many students in his shoes were traveling and doing their graduate program abroad for better opportunities, so Dib took his chance and came to America to earn his master’s degree. While earning a graduate degree is optional, Dib saw it as a requirement. “I was not able to find a job in Lebanon,” Dib said. “The economic crisis was really bad. It was either stay and not work or leave.” Dib said it was difficult leaving everything behind but having his girlfriend here made the whole process easier. When it came to the university, Dib adjusted to the graduate program system quite easily. “The professors were definitely more strict back home,” Dib said. “Here, professors are more lenient and really want you to pass. UCM professors are very lovely.”

Psychology graduate student Savanna Trout also credits professors at UCM for making graduate school manageable. “Graduate school can be intense, but once you get through your first semester, you’ll get used to it,” Trout said. “Your thesis is what you’ll mostly be focusing on during your master’s degree. Without your thesis, you won’t graduate. The professors are really good at making students equipped with necessary knowledge to be able to complete their thesis.” Although not all graduate degrees require a thesis, the psychology program Trout is in does. Unlike Dib, Trout took a year off after getting her bachelor’s degree. Trout used that time to take a break and determine her next step in life. Trout ultimately decided to return to UCM for graduate school since her future field of work will require it. “I would highly suggest taking a break if you need to,” Trout said. “Use the time off to regroup but don’t waste it. Look into what you want to do next. Even during my break, I was studying for the GRE when I decided to return for graduate school. The GRE is a test you need to pass to be accepted into graduate school.” Trout had many factors when deciding which graduate school to attend, and cost was one of them. Since a graduate program can cost more than undergraduate programs, it can have students wondering if graduate school is worth it. However, there are ways to reduce the costs. Muna AbdellaHazak, a Personnel Admin graduate student, is an example that it is possible to get into graduate school for little to no cost.

“Cost was a big factor when deciding which university to attend for graduate school,” Abdella-Hazak said. “Graduate assistance covered about 75% of costs for my last university. UCM covers pretty much everything with the Graduate Assistance program.” A graduate assistantship is a work opportunity for graduate students. Not every graduate program offers graduate assistantships, but Abdella-Hazak said students should always search for them. Stress was another concern AbdellaHazak had about graduate school. She thought grad school would be timeconsuming and scary. “I thought I wasn’t built for grad school, but realized you could do it if you set my mind to it. If you know how to balance you will be fine. Being

passionate about the subject will make the whole experience easier,” Abdella-Hazak said. “If it’s just for the title, it’s not going to be enough. You should have a plan.”

Features

6 Muleskinner • Vol. 115 • Issue 3 • Oct. 22, 2021

Emotional Support Animals Provide Accommodations for Students

ANGELA EVATT Reporter

According to the Office of Accessibility Services, as of the beginning of October, there are 68 ESAs registered on the University of Central Missouri campus. “This is a bit less than when we had over 100 a few years ago, however, the number of animals will continue to increase throughout the year,” Cathy Seeley, director of accessibility services, said. Some students have chosen to get an emotional support animal to better enhance their chances of academic success. According to the ADA National Network, a service dog is trained to perform specialized functions or jobs for an owner who has a physical, intellectual or emotional disability. An emotional support animal serves as more of a companion for the owner, but it’s important to note that they are animals that have a specialized purpose accredited by doctors more than domestic pets. These support animals provide companionship, relieve loneliness and sometimes help with depression, anxiety and certain phobias, but do not have special training to perform tasks that assist people with disabilities.

Haney and her emotional support animal, Jackson, cuddling on her bed. Photo submitted.

Laura Haney, mathematics and secondary mathematics double major, and her dog, Jackson, have been in each other’s lives since November of 2020. Jackson has been living at The Crossing apartments on campus with Haney since spring 2021. Haney said while she was lonely when she lived alone, Jackson has helped her to have someone to take care of. “I can’t imagine life without Jackson,” Haney said. “He’s super cute and fluffy.”

The process of registering a fur companion as an ESA requires going through multiple steps. One needs to be able to find a doctor that will provide a letter of documentation to prove the need of an ESA, fill out an agreement form that the student will take full responsibility of the animal, provide verification that the animal is up to date on all vaccinations and is spayed or neutered, and be registered with the OAS office. “The hardest part was finding someone to write the letter for me,” Haney said. This is often difficult because finding the right people to prescribe adequate documentation can be a challenge itself. Having an ESA on campus creates additional responsibility because students have to take care of a life other than their own. For some students this is a benefit, but it doesn’t mean an ESA is for everyone. Holly Hagood is a sophomore majoring in radiology. She’s a mulerider, works full time as a campus advisor and lives with her dog, Shortstacks. Shortstacks is a mix of Australian Shepherd, Australian Cattle Dog and German Shepherd. Hagood grew up on a farm and has always been around animals. So, when she moved on campus, away from her family, boyfriend and critters, she said she found herself touch deprived. “I was really anxious and depressed,” Hagood said. “I barely got out of my room aside from going to and from classes.” Hagood went to the University Health Center in December 2019 to ask what’s needed to bring an ESA to the university. After learning about the requirements, the next challenge for Hagood was choosing the puppy to be her support system. Since her family breeds dogs, Hagood was able to select her furever companion from a litter, get her trained and bring her to Warrensburg. Hagood said having ‘Shorty’ by her side has made a difference for her. “The long hours of doing homework while having her really forces me to go take a break — to go outside and recharge myself before getting back into it again,” Hagood said. Hagood said she believes getting a dog is not for everyone.

“No dog deserves or should be in a pen for 8-12 hours a day,” Hagood said. “If someone wants a lowmaintenance lifestyle, get a lowmaintenance dog, like a senior dog.” Hagood takes Shorty to the Cave Hollow dog park whenever she can, and said that other people with dogs are automatically her friend because they also enjoy dogs. Kodi Stockstill, a junior middle school education major, decided to get an emotional support animal for the same reason as Hagood. She wanted a companion on campus.

To obtain an Emotional Support Animal

a student would need to...

Provide a letter of documentation From a general practitioner doctor, counselor, therapist or psychiatrist to prove the need of Emotional Service Animal.

Fill out an agreement form Agreeing you will take full responsibility of the animal. If you live with roomates, you will need an agreement form with them too. Nola lays on Stockstill’s bed posing and smiling for a photo. Photo submitted.

“ “I didn’t know anyone, so I would just go to class and back to my dorm room and that would be it, ‘’ Stockstill said. “So, once my suitemate got her own ESA dog, I thought it would be good for me.” Being prescribed an ESA was a process for Stockstill. She tried contacting a counselor she used to go to before college, but they wouldn’t approve it. Only certain people can make the decision if an ESA is an appropriate prescription. When Stockstill went home during Thanksgiving break, she spoke with her doctor, and she approved her for an ESA. Her emotional companion is Nola, a two year old dachshund-mix, and they have been together since December 2019. Adding an animal to a student’s support system can provide a level of comfort while away from home. ESAs also can help provide emotional regulation and needed structure for certain students. If any students are interested in bringing their ESA to campus, they can contact the accessibility office and talk to one of the staff members there.

Provide a written record of vaccinations

From the animal’s veterinarian providing verification that the animal is up to date on all vaccinations and is spayed or neutered.

Be registered with the OAS office* Before or at the time of registration of their emotional support animal. *The Office of Accessibility Services can be found in Elliott ​​ Student Union 224. Students can also call them at: 660-543-4983, or email at: oas@ucmo. edu or access@ucmo.edu.

Illustrations by Sarah Sedgwick

Features

Muleskinner 7 • Vol. 115 • Issue 3 • Oct. 22, 2021

Fashion Students Style Looks from Downtown Businesses LIBBY EAST Reporter

Warrensburg residents were introduced to the University of Central Missouri fashion community at the Moonlight Market Fashion Show on Sept. 26 at 4:30 p.m. This show was made up of looks from local small businesses in Warrensburg, including Brown’s Shoe Fit Co., Crave Boutique, Awesome Blossoms, That’s So Darling, MKT Clothing and Salvation Army, in order to promote and shed light on the products available in these stores. Earlier this year, the UCM Fashion Business Association was approached by the Warrensburg Farmer’s Market in which their committee proposed the idea of the fashion show. From that point on, the club began making preparations for the big night. “Everyone wants to put on a fashion show,” Malloy Martin, junior fashion merchandising major and president of the FBA, said. “But when you really get into event management and figuring out all the logistics, you’re like, ‘Holy cow! There’s so much.’”

The FBA poses for a picture after the Moonlight Market Fashion Show on Sept. 26. Everyone in this photo is wearing a look made up of merchandise from local businesses. Photo by Libby East

The first challenge the FBA faced was finding businesses willing to lend out their merchandise. One of the businesses in particular that participated in this event was MKT Clothing Co. The boutique is co-owned by Karen Vick and Rachel Mifflin.

Junior fashion major Jay Shegog flashes the audience a smile while styling a look from the Salvation Army. Photo by Libby East

Freshman art major Zoey Carpenter styles a black dress from MKT Clothing Co. Photo by Libby East

Sophomore fashion major Cydni Stanford wows the audience with a look from the Salvation Army. Photo by Libby East

When Mifflin, who happens to be a UCM fashion program alumna, was approached by the FBA about this event, she was more than willing to help out. “We’re always game to help the FBA with anything,” Mifflin said. Once merchandise was secured, the FBA students went to work finding models. This included recruiting students to participate during UCM’s Involvement Fair. The event went off seamlessly and was a welcomed unity between UCM students and the Warrensburg community. Martin said she hoped the community increased awareness

of the UCM fashion program and the variety of merchandise offered by local businesses. “Sometimes the university has stuff going on and the community has stuff going on, and they just don’t mesh,” fashion merchandising associate professor Melissa Abner said. “I think it was great having a crossover event.” On top of promoting local businesses, the show also gave the opportunity for FBA to advertise their own products. The FBA focuses mostly on merchandising, however they also have a line of products designed with student-made patterns, which can be found on their website.

Features

8 Muleskinner • Vol. 115 • Issue 3 • Oct. 22, 2021

Warrensburg Wheels Hosts 32nd Annual Car Show GINA CUSIMANO Reporter

look underneath the car,” Gerdes said. “The better looking and taken care of, they’re the ones who are going to win the prizes.” Jon Cooper is from Overland Park, and he owns a 1969 Camaro Z28 Rally Sport. He’s been doing car shows for the past 15 years, and he’s won many contests. “The car shows I go to, they mainly look for cleanliness, so I do a lot of detail work with different products to shine up the body, wheels or engine,” Cooper said. Something that people see in Cooper’s car is his 8-track tape player and his 8-track tapes. “One of the first things people ask me is ‘Do they work?’ Yes they do!” Cooper said. “Some younger people look at the tapes and they wonder, ‘What in the world is an 8-track tape?’ But that was kinda a big thing in my day.”

Wally Westbrook is a retired Army soldier from Warrensburg who owns a 1942 Dodge WC-57. Westbrook was a logistics manager at the Whiteman Airforce Base and was also commander of the 128th field artillery unit in 1995 and 1996, Jon Cooper’s been going to car shows for 15 years with his 1969 Camaro but the unit was Z28 Rally Sport. Photo by Gina Cusimano originally based out of Jefferson Barracks, Missouri and was deployed into combat in 1942, during World War II. Westbrook first presented his vehicle in June 2021 to honor veterans, but this was his first show in Warrensburg. “This car saw combat service in Europe during World War II,” Westbrook said. This vehicle is Wally Westbrook retired from the Whiteman Airforce Base in Warrensburg. unique as it was He is pictured with his wife and Dodge WC-57. Photo by Gina Cusimano the United States’ humvee of its time in the second World War, and it was used for many Robert Meyrand is the president of purposes rather than just transporting Warrensburg Wheels, and he explained troops. each car show raises money for charity. Westbrook’s vehicle has been featured “For each show, we take the profit on the front page of Military Vehicles and give it to the local charities,” Magazine, which is a magazine Meyrand said. “Some of them include dedicated to those interested in Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, military vehicle restoration. Angel Tree, Survival House and more.”

the accommodations office,” Gonzalez said. Accomodation isn’t always noticed, yet it provides a vital resource for many students who can feel excluded in a university setting. Accommodations allow students to receive the support they need to succeed, and it allows students who aren’t part of the majority to be included. Seeley has worked at UCM since 2005, and she said the love she has for her work and for the students is why she does what she does. “I had a cousin that was a part of a group home, and I’d go visit her whenever I could because she wasn’t included like the rest of us,” Seeley said. It’s becoming more known that there are students who live life differently. It’s noteworthy that there’s a difference between getting support and receiving help. While help is something that’s implemented when one is helpless, support is something that’s put in place when one’s able to do what’s needed independently even if it’s different from the mainstream process of completion. “It’s basic,” Seeley said. “It’s us, together. No them over there and us

over here, just us. We need everyone.” Everyone’s sense of reality has changed one way or another since the pandemic started. The adaptation of studying and doing coursework online has been effective in some regards, but based on Seeley’s observations through the requests she receives, most students have not been doing well with the online transition. Academically and socially, students can have their needs met as long as they submit their requests through the right channels. “Compared to other universities in Missouri, we work with the students more and within the feedback we receive, many students share that they feel heard,” Seeley said. “I just really hope it’s true. Gonzalez said accomodation needs to be talked about more to help reduce the negative stigma. “In high school, I didn’t know it was actually possible to receive accommodations, specifically for anxiety and depression, Gonzalez said. “Many think their challenges are ‘smaller’ and therefore not valid enough to go get help. But, we have them!” Both Seeley and Gonzalez have expressed gratitude that a new

During the Warrensburg Wheels car show on Oct. 2, during Burg Fest, participants show off their cars in hopes of winning, but also meeting fellow car enthusiasts. Photo by Gina Cusimano

Warrensburg’s two-day Burg Fest brought together outdoor activities, live music, food trucks, beer gardens and the Warrensburg Wheels 32nd annual car show. The car show showcased classic and new vehicles from the early 1900s to present. Warrensburg Wheels is the organization that hosted this year’s car show; they’ve been hosting car shows for more than 35 years. Warrensburg local Dale Gerdes is one of the members of Warrensburg Wheels, and he’s been involved with car shows for 20 years. He owns a 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, and he’s won roughly 80 or 90 car shows in the past. Gerdes wasn’t competing in this show, but he was there to support the club. “They’ve got some members in the club that judge the cars, they look at body, cleanliness inside and out, the engine, and sometimes, some judges

Office of Accessibility Offers Inclusion through Accommodation ANGELA EVATT Reporter

According to the Office of Accessibility Services, almost six percent of the students at the University of Central Missouri are currently utilizing different kinds of accommodations. Cathy Seeley, the director of the OAS department, said the number of students that request and receive accommodations will rise as the year continues to progress. Out of approximately 10,000 students at UCM, about 600 of them have specialized accommodations that provide a stronger foundation to their paths to success. As of the first week of October, 55% of the students registered with the OAS have at least one mental health diagnosis and about 360 of the 600 have multiple disabilities. Junior child and family development major Selena Gonzalez is one of the few students who works at the front desk within the OAS office, and they shared that they also have specialized accommodation that supports their higher education journey. “Whenever I’d listen in to the freshman campus tours, I noticed the guide would talk more about the movie theatre here on campus than

coordinator has been hired. Melissa Peterson is the new coordinator at the OAS office at UCM, and she started working in the office Sept. 1. She has a bachelor’s degree in elementary education, a master’s degree in special education and prior to coming to UCM, she did case management. “I mostly worked with the itty-bitty and old-old, but the transition to the age group in the middle has been an absolute blast!” Peterson said. Even though she has been at UCM for a short time, she said she feels like she has already been here forever. “It has been so welcoming here and the space feels so comfortable,” Peterson said. Peterson and Seeley explained they have been splitting all the meetings, and they cover for each other when one’s out of the office. Peterson shared that they’ve been in charge of the student staff within the office and the testing center. “Within the intakes, I find that a lot of the students request for support in time management,” Peterson said. “When they’re open to it and put in the effort, it’s really beneficial. So, I try to pair them up with the best peer mentors.”

Features

Muleskinner 9 • Vol. 115 • Issue 3 • Oct. 22, 2021

9th Annual Ladies Night Out Raises Awareness and $18,735 MEAH COPELAND Sports Editor

The month of October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and on Oct. 5, Western Missouri Medical Center hosted the 9th Annual Ladies Night Out to educate women about the importance of getting a mammogram. There were over 500 attendees and the event raised $18,735 to go toward the WMMC Foundation. In 2012, strategy and development executive Tara Carlyle and the marketing team started this event and had 15 attendees. Since then, it has become popular among the community of Warrensburg. Last year, while the event was virtual because of the COVID-19 pandemic, there were 114 mammograms scheduled with over 450 attendees, and this year 82 women signed up for mammograms. Carlyle said the event takes a year to plan, but as the years went by, the planning got less stressful. She said it takes a lot of marketing, coordination, volunteers and employees to put this event together. There are usually 20 volunteers to help out with the tables and vendors. “This event is incredibly special to me because I started this event,” Carlyle said. “It all goes back to if we could save one life, if we could encourage more women to get their mammograms and we can continue to save lives, that is the whole purpose of this event.”

Michelle Schubert displays items at her table in honor of beating Breast Cancer. “It’s just about getting the message across that early detection saves lives.” Photo by Meah Copeland

The WMMC Team that organized the event (from left to right): Bailee Copas, Tara Carlyle, Jennie Snapp, Kelsey Elmore and Teresa Collins. Submitted photo

The three-hour event consisted of refreshments, a photo booth, 40 vendors with three salons offering nails, hair and massage services. Toward the end of the event, there were three guest speakers, including emcee Meryl Lin McKean, cancer survivor and UCM’s Assistant Athletic Director for Development Michelle Schubert and Dr. Amira Ghazali. Schubert shared her journey of how she was able to beat breast cancer. She said early detection saved her life, and she is grateful for going to LNO last year, where she signed up for the mammogram that detected her cancer. “I appreciate Western Missouri Medical Center hosting this event because it is so important for our community and obviously the early detection to save lives and just to get the message out to get the mammograms and take care of our health,” Schubert said. Ghazali’s speech touched many people in the audience as she gave a sentimental speech. Ghazali talked about the impact breast cancer has on families and how early detection can give mothers a longer time to live and make lasting memories with loved ones. “We want control of our futures. A mammogram helps us catch it when it’s small, four times smaller than anything you can feel,” Ghazali said. “LNO is about raising awareness, raising our voices and raising awareness for early detection.”

Opinions

10 Muleskinner • Vol. 115 • Issue 3 • Oct. 22, 2021

Fiction Should A Look into the World of the Gifted through Theater Be Problematic LIBBY EAST

BLAIR MILLER Reporter

For the last couple of years, censorship

has been increasing while trying to be

more sensitive to the audience of today.

Companies are erasing yesterday’s media. This is problematic because it’s removing

history, establishes a precedent that when society doesn’t like something, that thing

should just be deleted and it takes away an individual’s freedom to choose what they themselves decide is acceptable media to consume.

“The Simpsons” removed the episode,

“Stark Raving Dad,” from the third season. Some schools have been trying to get

classic fiction like “Huckleberry Finn”

banned. Even Dr. Seuss is not safe, having some of his books removed for offensive imagery. The classic character Pepe Le

Pew was removed from the “Space Jam 2” movie. Even an episode of “Golden Girls”

was removed for a period of time on Hulu. While there are plenty of examples of

censorship, media should not be removed or censored.

It’s removing part of history. Fiction is not

only entertainment, but it is also culture. Each piece of media gives a window into the time period of which it was created.

Reporter

UCM Theatre and Dance just finished

production of their fall play, “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time.”

Captivating sensory effects paired with

Luke Habjan’s outstanding performance

made for an immersive adventure as the

audience was told the heartbreaking tale of the young and gifted Christopher Boone.

Lights opened on a truly disturbing scene

as the audience was shown the silhouette of a dog with a pitch fork through its

center. Right away, the raw talent in this cast revealed itself in Gracie Heath’s

portrayal of a distraught Mrs. Shears.

The audience was then introduced to the many voices that live in Christopher’s head, played by Gracie Heath, Luke

Englert, Sasha Fuller, Joseph Wandell,

Isabella Bryn-Johnson and Anna Braman.

Throughout the show, each voice exhibited their own quirk or fidget that allowed a

clear distinction between the many brilliant actors. Siobhan, played by Hanna Wilson, served as a narrator throughout the story,

Christopher Boone, played by Luke Habjan, lays on the ground, admiring the stars, while the voices in his head dance around him with colorful blocks, creating the illusion of space. The voices are played by Gracie Heath, Luke Englert, Sasha Fuller, Joseph Wandell, Isabella Bryn-Johnson and Anna Braman. Photo by Libby East

reading what Christopher had written in

investigation quickly turned into a tragic

blocks created mesmerizing effects as

story behind the play itself.

by Molly Ross, was revealed to be alive.

scenes right in front of the audience’s eyes.

Riley Given,

projectors during these scenes to add to the

his book, which is later revealed to be the What started as a neighborhood

discovery as Christopher’s mother, played

the holders of the blocks built beautiful

After a fight with his father, played by

The crew also incorporated the use of

Erasing media is erasing a part of history. TV shows, books, and movies show how shouldn’t be removed just because it is while also showing the bad.

his mother.

nearly every setting in the story had

and Molly Ross

building techniques via the blocks allowed

dysfunctional

characters lived in. Sounds were also

sad tale. Their

overload, letting the audience feel what

were both

moments.

portrayed and

conducted almost entirely by Habjan, as he

tension

problem referenced earlier in the story.

two ex-spouses

— via a confetti cannon — and left the

Riley Given

The other problem with removing

controversial media is that it creates the

precedent to remove things in the future that people in this time period consider

not problematic. Society has changed over time. What’s considered acceptable now may not be considered acceptable later. Also, what is acceptable now was not

times when there were demands to remove “Harry Potter” from the shelves.

When people are offended by certain

material or certain forms of media, they can simply choose not to watch or read

what makes them uncomfortable. However, some, this does not mean it is problematic Christopher Boone, played by Luke Habjan, delivers an eye-opening monologue to the audience. Photo by Libby East

a corresponding sound and the world

parents in this

used to demonstrate the effects of sensory

characters

Christopher was feeling during these

The show ended with a charming scene

the obvious

explained how Christopher solved a math

between the

The sequence ended with a bang, literally

was nothing

audience smiling with hope in their hearts.

realistic.

performances by the cast and engaging

the production,

Curious Incident of The Dog in The Night-

Throughout

for everyone. It also does not mean that

show did not feature a clear set; however,

the audience to visualize the world these

short of

just because the material is offensive to

The use of audio effects was exceptional

were the perfect

wonderfully

appropriate earlier. Remember, there were

is not allowing people to decide for

an adventure to

throughout the entire show as well. The

London to find

ugly. People should embrace the good

banning and removing material, society

immersive quality.

embarked on

society has evolved over the years. History

nobody else should be able to see it. By

Christopher

the use of

colorful, glowing

With the combination of stellar

practical effects done by the crew, “The

time” was more than just a show— it was an experience.

themselves what is acceptable.

Fiction should be allowed to be

controversial and problematic. Fiction

should not be this moral stature where what’s only allowed are certain views

from certain people who have deemed

what is right and wrong. Media should

not be limited to only what is considered moral or acceptable for the time period. Fiction should be allowed to bring up

views that are different. It should be a

place to explore controversial topics and not be moralistic. By limiting what is

shown and accessible, people are removing conversations and viewpoints.

Comic by Sarah Sedgewick

Opinions

Muleskinner 11 • Vol. 115 • Issue 3 • Oct. 22, 2021

Music on Repeat DILLON SECKINGTON Reporter

7.5/10

The Raconteurs: “Help Us Stranger” (2019) The Raconteurs’s 11-year hiatus did

Faye Webster: “I Know I’m Funny haha” (2021) Faye Webster made waves in the indie

Wiki: “Half God” (2021)

as their third full length record “Help

of her third record “I Know I’m Funny

New Yorker Navy Blue managing the

not seem to hinder their creative ability Us Stranger” is full of fun and fresh

instrumentation and songwriting. Fronted by Jack White, The Raconteurs are

somewhat of a supergroup. The three other members, guitarist and vocalist Brendan Benson, bassist Jack Lawerence and

drummer Patrick Keeler, have all achieved commercial success in the music industry

at one point or another. “Help Us Stranger” is a culmination of decades of songwriting and performing to produce a modern rock album that sounds so familiar, yet so new and inventive. The opening track, “Bored

and Razed” bursts through sonically with yet another tasty guitar tone from Jack White. Although, by the time we get to the last track, “Thoughts and Prayers,” the band is more interested in a softer

acoustic sound. The record travels, but The Raconteurs wrap it together quite nicely.

Highlights: “Bored and Razed,” “Help Me Stranger,” “Somedays (I Don’t Feel Like Trying)”

8/10

7/10

9/10

“Half God” is the fifth full-length record

Turnstile: “GLOW ON” (2021) The Baltimore hard rock group, Turnstile,

folk scene this year following the release

from New York rapper Wiki. With fellow

delivered their third album in five years

haha.” The record is a gentle listen,

production aspect of the record, the album

fitting, as this record is vibrant and fluid

and it’s capable of striking listeners

powerfully through calming melodies and instrumentation. Lap steel guitar

backdrops, rhythmic drums and colorful

guitar tones combine to allow Webster to

paint weary pictures of days spent indoors, a reflection of the introverted singer

songwriter. Webster spreads her wings

on songs like “Cheers,” while songs like

“Both All the Time” are devastating and

crippling. This variation in aesthetic, while maintaining a relatively consistent sound, is part of the genius of Faye Webster. Her witty and comical lyrics mean just as

much to her as the earnest ones, as they all contribute to a specific tonality or

sensation. “I Know I’m Funny haha” flows

is a reflection upon the struggles of youth in the Big Apple. Wiki’s aggravated, yet

calculated, rhymes meet with intriguingly

simple beats on “Half God,” allowing Wiki to float from bar to bar in a retro sort of way. Wiki raps about the world around

him, the people he sees and the division he sees between them and himself. Although the subject matter is bleak, the record in

its entirety paints a picture that is far from

dull. Through the production of Navy Blue, tastefully placed samples and brooding

lyricism, “Half God” sounds like a classic New York rap album. Refined, wise and

confident, Wiki showcases his talent on a greater scale on his fifth record.

compared to the band’s last two projects.

That being said, the band does remain true

to their punk/hard rock sound. Some of the most invigorating moments on the record are induced by heavy — yet pleasant — guitar riffs from Pat McCrory and Brady

Ebert. While the record is not out of place

in Turnstile’s discography, it features more experimentation and genre-melding tunes

than listeners have previously experienced

from the band. Tracks such as “ALIEN LOVE CALL” featuring Blood Orange incorporates daydreamy guitar effects and Blood

Orange’s trademark vocal production. The band more thoroughly executes on ideas from their last album, “Time & Space,”

while also expanding their sound by toying with aspects from various genres.

from track to track effortlessly, creating a floaty and laid back vibe.

Highlights: “Better Distractions,” “I Know I’m Funny haha,” “Cheers”

on Aug. 27, 2021. The title “GLOW ON” is

Highlights: “Roof,” “Never Fall Off,” “All I Need”

Highlights: “MYSTERY,” “UNDERWATER BOI,” “FLY AGAIN”

We want to hear student voices!

Send letters to the editor to muleskinner@ucmo.edu or find our “Apply” tab at Muleskinnernews.com to join our staff.

Comic by Garnett Williams

Ad

12 Muleskinner • Vol. 115 • Issue 3 • Oct. 22, 2021

Free public screening - Friday, October 22 at 2 p.m. Nahm Auditorium, in the W. C. Morris Science Building

KMOS-TV tracks the history of our university through archival images and footage, historian commentary and interviews with leaders past and present. Watch anytime on KMOS.ORG On KMOS 6.1 (Spectrum 709) - Livestreamed at kmos.org Premiere date: October 19 at 7 p.m. October 21 at noon October 22 at 9 p.m.

On KMOS Emerge 6.3 (Spectrum 185) October 23 at 7 p.m. October 24 at 3:30 p.m. December 2 at 7 p.m. December 4 at 5 p.m.

KMOS-TV is a community service of the University of Central Missouri

Sports

Muleskinner 13 • Vol. 115 • Issue 3 • Oct. 22, 2021

2020 Seniors Athletes Granted One Extra Year to Compete MEAH COPELAND Sports Editor The Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics

Association granted senior university

students an opportunity for an extra year

of eligibility, meaning they can stay for one extended year. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the MIAA wanted to make up

is occupational safety management.

Braun chose an extra year to focus on

his academics to help him get his degree. He said the choice was not hard because

Warrensburg is his hometown, and he has more school left to finish.

“I’m very grateful,” Braun said. “It’s

for the year that was lost. At the University

helped me out and gave me another year

chose to stay an extra year to make up for

closer to my degree.”

of Central Missouri, 35 student-athletes last season.

Sixth-year senior Hannah VanBuskirk

chose to have an extra year of eligibility. She plays in two sports and chose to

play in volleyball and track and field.

VanBuskirk decided to do both sports

because she was passionate about both

of school paid for and helped me out to get Braun said he has a good connection

with teammates and hopes to continue this

relationship with the team. He said he likes that no athlete has not dropped out since

the new interim head coach, John Feeney, was named.

Fifth-year athlete Elliott Anderson said he

and wanted to continue her career. In

is passionate about track and field. He is a

and field, she does indoor pentathlon and

chose an extra year of eligibility for track.

volleyball, she is an outside hitter. In track outdoors, she does the heptathlon events.

“I was really excited, happy and grateful

to be given the opportunity,” VanBuskirk

said. “I really wanted to come back and get

sprinter who sprints under 400 meters. He Anderson said he believes the extra year

was an opportunity to make up for the year that was lost.

Anderson said the choice was easy for

the opportunity to compete for four years.”

him and he was not ready to graduate. He

spring 2020, but now that she has

now he will be graduating in spring 2022.

VanBuskirk’s set graduation date was

extended her Master’s program and will be graduating in spring 2022.

Collin Braun, a senior heavy-weight

was supposed to graduate spring 2020, but Anderson also said he feels more prepared to graduate now.

“This is the program for track, if you need

wrestler weighing in at 285 pounds, also

proof the banner is out there,” Anderson

to graduate in fall 2022 and his major

is incredible.”

chose to stay for an extra year. He is set

said. “We are that team and just being here

Sports

14 Muleskinner • Vol. 115 • Issue 3 • Oct. 22, 2021

Twirler Taylor Herrmann Makes her Mark on Campus ZAYIN BARNES Features Editor

when I got out of dance, my mom found

baton for me to do,” Taylor said. “It gave

me something to kind of focus on with the baton because I could still do the dance aspect, but I had something to look at.” Taylor has found family and built

relationships in her baton twirling career as well.

“I think why I did it mostly was because

of the family I had formed with it, and how close I got with my teammates,” Taylor

said. One of the relationships she formed

was her long-time coach, Emily Hawkins of the St. Louis Performance Academy.

“She has always wanted to do more.

She has always went above and beyond

to be an exceptional student, but also an exceptional teammate,” Hawkins said.

Hawkins has coached Taylor her entire

baton twirling career.

“She has always been prepared and she

has always rose to the occasion in every Taylor Herrman twirls her baton at every football game alongside the Marching Mules. Photo courtesy of UCM Bands.

With homecoming week upon the

University of Central Missouri, students are looking to get involved with school

spirit. Students find themselves running

for homecoming royalty, hosting late-night school events, but for freshman interior

design major Taylor Herrmann,the day is

spent baton twirling during the Saturday football game.

Born in St. Louis, Missouri, Taylor

Herrmann started baton twirling in 5th grade at Point Elementary School.

“I was always involved in dance and

Taylor Herrman has been twirling since fifth grade, and now she performs for the University of Central Missouri. Photo courtesy of UCM Bands

Kenneth first noticed Taylor’s passion for

performance.

“We live on a cul-de-sac here. She would

I was even on the receiving end of it this

twirling when she started middle school.

aspect. I’ve coached a lot of students,

spend tons of time out in that middle area

understanding, lovely individual. Her

weather wasn’t that great, and she would

and Taylor in general is a very sweet,

when the weather was nice, and when the

family is the same way, so I obviously know where that comes from.”

Kenneth Herrman, Taylor’s father, was

also able to witness Taylor’s preparation

practice and practice and practice, and

when she finally hit her first one spin-tossand-catch, I knew she was hooked.” Taylor’s practice has given her an

and kind personality from a young age.

opportunity with the University of Central

a lot of different things. She was involved

an event called UCM Twirler for a Day.

“Taylor loves twirling. Before that, we did

in dance, she was involved in some musical stuff, and then we got the opportunity

with the St. Louis Performance Academy,” Kenneth said. “We’re really proud of her.

She impresses every time she’s performing, and the work ethic that she has put into it, even in fifth grade starting, is amazing.”

“With her hosting this Twirler for a Day,

time, where she has been organizing

everything. She organized a Zoom call and it was so rewarding to see her being on

the other end of it where she was running something and organizing something rather than me organizing it for her,” Hawkins said.

Taylor wants to be an interior designer so

Missouri, even allowing her to help host

that she is able to design homes for people.

This event gives twirlers ages four and up

coaching baton on the side in the future.

a chance to twirl baton with the University

However, she also hopes to continue

Taylor said, “I probably am going to

of Central Missouri Marching Mules on

continue coaching on the side because I

Registered twirlers will get to practice with

I just like to help the younger generations

homecoming game day, Saturday Oct. 23. the band, enjoy the Homecoming Parade, and find themselves in the pregame

have been doing that for a few years now. kind of get involved with it because there aren’t many people who do it.”

Tailgaiting Traditions at the Mule Stable Get an Early Start MEAH COPELAND Sports Editor Kurt Sunderman, the father of right

guard Dan Sunderman, has been tailgating throughout his entire life. On game days, Sunderman gets to his parking spot by 8:00 a.m. to start celebrating early.

His crew always makes food during the

celebration. They have cooked pizza, stack burgers, breakfast and barbeque.

S 13

“I think it’s important just to show

support for the school — having a

good time and meeting great people,”

Sunderman said. “I’ve met life-long friends doing this, so that’s the best part.”

Sunderman said everybody chips in

to help, and they have different cooks depending on what they have.

Assistant Athletic Director Jeff Mason is

tasked with putting the revenue together ­— including sponsors, alumni and advertising.

“I think most people do tailgating because

of the atmosphere and people getting together for a game,” Mason said. “At

tailgating, it would be a time to socialize

whereas the game you focused on what’s happening. It’s a combination of both for the game days.”

Mason said it’s always been a fun

experience for game day, and he is lucky to have the city, school and other partners to help get ready for game days.

Redshirt sophomore Dan Sunderman

plays for the Mules football team as part of the offense line. He said growing up,

his family always enjoyed tailgating and

spending time outside. Having his father

Right: The above map shows where fans can park before the game starts. The spots are designated for certain people to tailgate before the game. The parking lots are opened three hours before game time. Parking spaces may not be reserved or saved for others. Parking entrances cannot be blocked for any reason and must remain open to emergency vehicles. When entering the lots, visitors will be given plastic cups for alcoholic beverages and a parking ticket. Map courtesy of UCM Athletics

go to away games is special to him.

Top Left: Kurt Sunderman flattens the burgers with two spatulas as he makes stack burgers.

for three months a year to come to watch

these people are now my extended family, and it’s just a lot of fun.”

“My dad drops everything every weekend

me play, and I cherish that because not

everyone gets that love and support from their family,” Dan Sunderman said.

“I’ve had such a great time doing this,” Sunderman said. “I’ve met life-long friends and all Bottom Left: Devin Carter, the father of linebacker Tommy Carter, helps out with cooking the food. He grills hamburger buns, then he puts them in the warmer to keep them hot and ready.

Sports

Muleskinner 15 • Vol. 115 • Issue 3 • Oct. 22, 2021

Fencing Club Prepares for Upcoming Tournaments

ANDREW DRAKE

Collegiate sport clubs allow students to

participate in a wide variety of sports that aren’t available at the University athletics level. The students that are in these

clubs can participate in tournaments or

challenges throughout that club’s season. At the University of Central Missouri,

there are a lot of student sport clubs, which include fishing, bowling, rugby, climbing,

inline hockey, men’s rugby, women’s rugby

and swimming, but UCM also has a fencing club, which is a sport that the average

student doesn’t know about. The fencing club has just over 20 students involved, and they compete in tournaments for awards.

The fencing team members train twice a

week for about two hours each day in the Lovinger gym, but before tournaments, individuals will have separate training sessions to prepare.

Graduate student Joseph Hartman, a

criminal justice major, has been fencing

at the university for five and a half years.

With his experience, he still emphasizes the importance of learning the basics.

“The basics is really what will let you

learn everything else and you build off of it,” Hartman said. “If you don’t have the basics pairs down, you can’t move onto anything else.”

$120

Members of the fencing club practice

Reporter

to improve for competitions. However,

last year, the fencing club wasn’t able to

$120

compete in any tournaments because of

COVID-19 protocols. This year is different. Once a month, the fencing team competes within their conference or Guild.

The University of Missouri, Missouri S&T

and St. Louis University are the schools in

$20

Lame (Outer Jacket)

Weapon

Plastron

$100

$15

Jacket

$30

Dry Weapon

Body Cord

$20

Gloves

the same Guild as UCM.

$55

Hartman and sophomore teammate

Lauren Channel, a music education

Chest Protector

major, said they are excited for tournaments this year because they get to compete and show

It has been two

what they have worked on for the

months since the fencing

last two years.

season started and the fencing team has

After suffering a knee injury in high

school, Channel decided that when she got to college she would participate in a club so she could stay busy.

“I just looked up all the clubs and I saw

fencing, and I was like, ‘that’s cool!’”

Channel said. “I can just do that, and I

don’t think it would hurt my knees too much. So, that’s why I chose it.”

Channel said she loves participating in

fencing along with her teammates. She

said that over time, the fencing club has made her feel like she belongs at the

improved.

“We performed well at our SLU

tournament, and the fencers have

been doing well against each other in

practices,” team manager Alana Golden said.

The UCM fencing team will be hosting

a fencing tournament that will take

place in the Student Recreation and Wellness Center, lower courts Nov. 6 and 7, beginning at 10:00 a.m. both days.

university. That aspect is what makes

being in the fencing club fun for her and everyone else.

111 N. Holden St

Illustration by Sarah Sedgewick

Warrensburg, MO 64093

www.blackwaterbarberco.com 660.362.0392

blackwaterbarberco

Appointments preferred, Book Appointments Online, Walk-ins welcome! Walk-ins Welcome!

Sports

16 Muleskinner • Vol. 115 • Issue 3 • Oct. 22, 2021

Mule Riders Uphold an Tradition of Excellence

GABBY ELLIS

Molly for the first time, and said Molly is

Reporter

truly a remarkable animal.

At Prussing Farm, in the quiet countryside

“When I went to ride Molly, we went on a

of Warrensburg, the university’s mule

6-hour trail ride where we came in contact

mascots, Tammy, also known as Mancow,

with a lot of loud noises and things she had

age 26, and Molly, age 11, spend their

never seen before,” Happy said. “I was so

days. When they aren’t getting ready for

impressed with her, and then we came to a

game day with their riders, the mules

part where we had to ride across a bridge

spend the day with the wind blowing

that went over a major highway. Molly was

through their manes, enjoying the sweet

so brave, and got us across safely. Needless

smell of the fresh, outdoor air.

to say, after that she got the job because

Students may have seen these long,

she showed such bravery, intelligence and

familiar faces at the University of Central

trust.”

Missouri’s home football games with the

Happy has been on the team for five

Mule Riders on their backs.

years, and the amount of years she has

The mules are ridden by this year’s mule

been involved makes her the veteran rider.

team, Victoria Happy and Holly Hagood.

“As the veteran, I am in charge of

Sophomore radiology major Hagood is

teaching my apprentice, making sure the

the mule apprentice while Happy is the

mules are getting the specific training to

veteran Mule Rider.

ensure they have the tools to do their job,

There is an extensive routine that goes

do most of the PR, and make moment to

into getting these mules game day ready.

moment decisions to ensure everyone has

Both Hagood and Happy are responsible

an enjoyably safe experience with our

for the mules’ game-day routines which include washing, trimming, cleaning,

drying, painting, saddling and warming the mules up.

“To be ready for game day, we typically

give them a bath, which can take up to

45 minutes to an hour,” Hagood said. “We need paints, glitter, all our normal tack and sometimes different ones. We also

trim their whiskers and manes. Game day

routine starts with getting up at 6:00 a.m.

to start anything forgotten the night before like cleaning tack, straightening hair or other odd things.”

Hagood said it can be difficult if the

mules do not want to cooperate with them, especially when trying to paint freehand.

mules,” Happy said. Veteran Mule Rider Victoria Happy decked out in gear ready to do a lap by the endzone once the Mules football team scores a touchdown. Photo submitted by Victoria Happy

In order to become a Mule Rider, Hume

explained, “There’s an extensive tryout

that the prospective riders go through with me. If they pass the riding portion and

can handle themselves well at a public

appearance, I will make a selection at the end of the season.”

Veteran Mule Rider Victoria Happy

1950s. The third mule was Roscoe in the

1960s. Each of these mules were donkeys bred with ponies rather than horses, so

they were all smaller in size. Therefore, the first three mules were not ridden. In the

1980s, Abbedale became the live mascot, and she was ridden by a staff member.

Mancow “Tammy” was donated in 2003.

While the job may look easy from an

outsider’s point of view, the UCM Mule Riders put in a lot of hours and hard work to ensure the UCM community is able to enjoy having live mascots.

Happy explained the mules are training

between before each appearance or game.

Additionally, the Mule Rider team has to be able to work together and trust each other, especially the mules and their riders.

“The job is far more than taking care

described the history behind the mules,

As an 8-year-old, she made her debut

of mules, sitting on a saddle and looking

starting with Gizmo. Shortly after Gizmo,

brought to the university in early 2017.

game prep, overall equine knowledge and

explaining that UCM has had live mascots there was a mule named Little Mo in the

for the 2004 football season. Molly was Happy recalls what it was like to ride

pretty,” Happy said. “We train in PR, riding, so many more details.”

On game day, the mules and Mule Riders have a specific routine.

“We walk through the tailgate lots and

say hi to fans as well as the rival team,” Hagood said. “After a quick stop at the

president’s tent, we go to the field and

warm-up, and then, we go on with the

game. Standing for the national anthem and doing a small lap if we score a

touchdown. After the game, we take

pictures, then head back to the barn to

clean the mules and let them go in their pasture.”

Sophomore communication studies major

Laney Rose described what it was like to see the mules at the games.

“After not being able to attend football

season my freshman year, I was super

The first live Mule mascot was Gizmo. The first three live mascots were smalller in stature because they were donkeys bred with ponies instead of horses. Photo courtesy of the McClure Archives and

The second mascot was Little Mo in the 1950s. Photo courtesy of the McClure Archives and University Museum, UCM

University Museum, UCM

excited to experience Mules football this

year,” Rose said. “I got to see the mules do

laps when UCM scored, which I wasn’t able to see before. Being a part of game day is an experience that I will never forget.”

With homecoming fast-approaching, the

Mule Riders have to prepare.

UCM farms director Travis Hume said,

“Homecoming is a 14-hour day for the

mule team starting at 4:00 a.m. and not wrapping up until around 6:00 p.m.

Preparation for game day lasts all year. Just like any other athletic team, we

practice all year because when game day

hits we have to bring our A-game. We can’t

allow for a mistake with that many eyes on us. Perfection is expected.”

The third mule was Roscoe in the 1960s. Photo courtesy of the

The fourth mule was Abbedale in the 1980s. She was the first mule

McClure Archives and University Museum, UCM

ridden on campus because she was the first full-sized mule. Photo courtesy of the McClure Archives and University Museum, UCM