The Stylus- February 2, 2018

s u l y t S e h T

Volume 123

ISSUE

2017-18

#1

Visit stylusonline.org for online news and student blogs

A student publication of Park University since 1895

FB: ParkUniversityStylus stylus@park.edu February 2, 2018

‘Welcome back bash’ brings Park students together to celebrate Abby Jeans Reporter

major and President of the International Club, Ikem Eriobuna, started the group in hopes to bring students from all over the world together. He has been successful in doing so by hosting Classes resumed at Park University for the spring semester events like the bash that allow students to unwind and get to and the Park International Club wanted to be the first to wel- know each other in a fun and comfortable atmosphere. Somecome students back. For weeks the club spent time planning thing Eriobuna said he struggled with when he first came to an event that allowed students time to relax and have fun be- Park. fore diving deep into the books.

“What I saw when I was back home about coming to the Friday, January 19, the Park Avenue Underground was United States wasn’t what I witnessed my first week here,” filled with music, games, prizes and food. said Eriobuna. “After being here a while and seeing new in“My favorite part was getting to see all different types of ternational students I felt like they were going through the cultures and people come together and have a good time,” said same thing I did which motivated me to start the Internationsenior marketing major Kenzie Lawson. al Club.” In just two semesters the club has accumulated 72 That is exactly what the International Club intended to do members. with the back-to-school bash. Senior international business With his passion for bringing students together he knew he wanted to host an event the first week back to school to welcome all students.

“I took a big stand in saying we had to do it, and the executive board gave us the go ahead,” said Eriobuna. From there the planning process began, and fliers went out.

Staff advisor and International Program Coordinator at Park University Michael House said he believes this was the perfect time to host the event because not much is happening on campus early in the spring semester.

“So many events happen in the fall, so International Club wanted to host something the first week back to school,” said House.

Sodexo provided brownies, salsa and lemonade for students to enjoy while also singing and dancing. Eriobuna gathered students to the dance floor to dance to iconic songs such as “YMCA” and “Sweet Caroline.” Students PHOTO/ABBY JEANS also came together to play oversized Jenga, corn hole and video games.

Club members helping handout raffle tickets (Left to Right) Zainab AbSee Welcome back bash on page 6 duosalam,Victoria Olaleye, Ulfat Faraji, Alex Hale.

Park community helps the homeless with 10,000 meals Page 12

In This Issue: News......................1 Opinion...............2-3 Entertainment....4-5 Campus Life.......6-7 Features..........8, 12 Sports...............9-11

OPINION

Page 2 February 2, 2018

Consent requires more than ‘no comment’ Sexual harassment, sexual assault and rape were all over the news in 2017 and are showing no signs of moving out of the spotlight in 2018. A positive thing that has come from all of this is that people are finally talking about consent.

Consent is something that should be the basis of every sexual encounter. Still, not many people Kalie Strain seem to understand what Reporter consent is. Consent, most importantly, isn’t just a lack of a “no.”

There are many reason why the lack of a “no” isn’t enough. A person can be incapable of saying no because they’re drunk or

asleep. They could feel pressured and feel like they can’t say no.

Or they could be terrified of saying no in fear of facing violent backlash.

Consent can be taken back at any point during sex. Removing a condom or other STD and birth control prevention items is a violation of consent.

Consent is an enthusiastic and freely given “yes.” If you aren’t completely certain the person you’re sleeping with is into what’s going on, ask.

“Do you like that?”

“Does this feel good?”

These are perfect questions to make sure your partner is into everything that’s going on.

It’s good to talk about boundaries beforehand. Don’t be afraid to say what you don’t want to happen during sex. Talk about what kind of birth control and STD prevention you want to use.

Paying attention to your partner’s needs keeps everyone feeling safe and satisfied.

STAFF LIST

EDITORS IN CHIEF: EMILIE HESTON CICELY NGUYEN

EDITORS:

LOGAN FREEMAN JON HOKENSON CONNOR JONES MAX MOHR DAYANA PLAISIME ARRON RIFFLE REPORTERS: SKYLAR BRITT CARIN BUBLIZ ABBY JEANS CHRISTIAN MCFADDEN ZARTASHA SANI KALIE STRAIN

FACULTY ADVISER: KRISTIN SHAW

Changes must arrive for music in the classroom What needs to be different in the classroom involving music? Music – meaning sounds from instruments or vocals – can allow individual expression in numerous ways, including conveying emotion and feeling through harmony.

Steven Hill, a Park University student, suggested the university should have a class that branches out further from the standard music appreciation course Park University that’s currently in the catalog.

Hill is an underground professional hip-hop artist going by the name of Steven4AReason. Or for short you could call him $4AR. He and I share a lot in common, as I perform under the artist Christian McFadden name CHRIZZY. We both agree that an “urban Reporter music appreciation class” would be amazing. It could teach students who want to produce and mix music that usually focuses more on life outside of the classroom the importance of education and making influential connections while learning.

In general, music appreciation is phenomenal. There’s so much to learn by digging into the history. For an urban music appreciation course, students could also work on song production with peers and the community. They could interact with artists and DJs. This mentorship would give the students a perspective and an actual idea of what it would really take to pursue a music career.

We know the industry is competitive and there’s a high road to success. But even if they don’t make it big, this type of class could uncover the song inside of everyone.

That’s the beauty of music. This class could do so much more than just opening minds

to doorways to better skill sets and personality traits.

Nurturing musicians will provide support, positivity and hope. This course could provide knowledge through constructive criticism and establish a group of loyal relationships.

In turn this could undoubtedly create a strong community around these aspiring students for music. This support system could protect them from failure and shame and remind them that anything truly new and imaginative will have faults no matter what.

To be in a classroom free to express oneself in music could be one of the best programs benefiting Park University students as well as the professor through inspiration and discovery. Learning the history between the urban music as well can really help find someone’s call to a certain genre or position in the world of PHOTO/Steven Hill music.

Cover of Hill’s EP album, Submerged

OPINION

Page 3 February 2, 2018

From a ‘shithole’ country and proud On Jan. 11, President Trump questioned why the United States would allow more people from Haiti and Africa to enter the country. He described those countries by using expletives, and he suggested that we should be encouraging more people from NorDayana Plaisime way.

Editor In a report from CNN, one source from an Oval Office meeting said that Trump asked, “Why do we want all these people from shithole countries coming here?” as they discussed providing protections for immigrants from Haiti, El Salvador and African countries as part of a bipartisan immigration deal.

When I first read those comments, I was not surprised. I was enraged because calling any country a shithole is not presidential. I felt personally attacked because Haiti is my native country.

Haiti is a country that is filled with pride in our history and culture. Although it is poor, it is far from be-

PHOTOS COURTESY/Wikipedia

ing a “shithole” country. President Trump’s comments were made one day before the 8th anniversary of the devastating earthquake in Haiti.

According to the Red Cross, the 7.0 magnitude earthquake killed roughly 230,000 people and left 1.5 million people homeless. Still to this day, Haiti is trying to recover from the earthquake that destroyed a majority of the country. In 2016, Hurricane Matthew struck Haiti causing more hindrance to the already damaged country.

Trump’s presidency was built around his ludicrous stance on immigration. Trump vowed to build a Haitians do not eat leaves from trees or eat cats, not wall along the Mexican border, impleall Haitians practice voodoo, and most importantly, all ment a Muslim ban, end DACA protections and increase the deportation immigrants from Haiti do not have AIDS. of illegal immigrants.

This is not the first time President parts of Haiti that are flourishing.

Trump has attacked Haiti. According Haitians do not eat leaves from trees or eat cats, not to the New York Times, six White House officials reportall Haitians practice voodoo and, most importantly, all ed President Trump allegedly said that “all Haitians have immigrants from Haiti do not have AIDS. Those negaAIDS.” tive stereotypes need to be debunked.

While the White House denied the alleged statement If President Trump were informed of Haiti’s history, was ever said, it is discouraging to hear someone who he would have known that, other than being the first is the leader of the free world, someone who should be black republic in the world to gain its independence setting an example for other countries, someone who from Europe, Haitians have contributed to American should be the epitome of democracy, using such deculture from its foundation. meaning language about someone’s country. President Take for example the Haitian volunteers who fought Trump attacks countries whose population are primaralongside Americans in the battle of Savannah in 1779, ily people of color, and his immigration reforms attack or the founder of Chicago, Jean Baptiste Point du Sable, people of color. who is Haitian, or the thousands of Haitian lawyers, docIn November 2017, the Trump administration retors, nurses, engineers and business owners who convoked deportation protection that was granted to protect tributed to this country’s economy. thousands of Haitians after the earthquake happened.

When Haitians come to the United States, like other Until that point, they had until July 2019 to return to immigrants, they come in search of a better life, not to Haiti. be told their country is a “shithole. ” People from these Trump stated on multiple occasions that his mission “shithole” countries fight in the military to protect civilwas to make America great again, but he just wants to ians that often cost them their lives. make America white again. He will allow immigrants Haitians have a sense of pride. We are survivors, even from predominantly white countries such as Norway, with the negative stereotypes. We continue to walk with Russia, etc., to come here but calls for the mass deportaour heads up high. tion of those from countries that contain people of color.

I am proud of my heritage and my country. I am Haiti, like many other countries, has its good proud to be from what Trump would call a “shithole” parts and bad parts. The media has always focused country such as Haiti. on the poverty-stricken areas but often overlooks the

ENTERTAINMENT

Page 4 February 2, 2018

Husband-wife duo dazzles at ICM Masters Concert Logan Freeman Editor

You’re missing out. I recently had the immense pleasure of attending Park University International Center for Music’s masters concert featuring famed violinist Ben Sayevich and international award-winning pianist Lolita Lisovskaya-Sayevich.

The Parkway Room in the 1900 Building provided an intimate setting for the night’s display as audience members poured in like the fine wine swirling in their glasses to hear the highly acclaimed husband and wife duo.

After a swift tune-up, a deep breath and a quick nod, the performance began-- and a performance it was. The first piece, Adagio in E major, K.261, by Mozart, started the concert off with a sweet melody, entrancing the audience as the music resonated in the acoustically-rich room.

Lisovskaya-Sayevich’s fingers delicately graced the Steinway concert grand piano as her husband swayed back and forth, pulling life from the strings of his violin with each graceful stroke of the bow. Shadows danced on the wall behind the couple, mirroring their movements in silhouette.

PHOTOS COURTESY/Park University’s International Center for Music Park University ICM director, Roger Kugler, had glowing words for the pair of performers, who each hold staff positions within the organization; Sayevich is a professor of violin and the instruments, creating an eerie atmosphere within the room. Plucking pizzicato from the cello, director of the violin studio, and Lisovskaya-Sayevich is the director of collaborative piano. then long, drawn out high notes from the violin followed by a subtle switch in roles overtook “The way Ben and Lolita work together as an ensemble is amazing,” he said with a smile. the emotion of the room. They faded together with long bow strokes, weaving between har“Whatever I say, you could square it, and it wouldn’t be enough. It’s mony and discord, creating a sense of discomfort and unease for the amazing.” listener.

If any Park student, or anybody, had Following their rousing rendition of Mozart, the couple split for a Suddenly they burst into the “wild” portion of the dance, jumping moment, and Lisovskaya-Sayevich was replaced by Daniel Veis, profesinto a fast allegro tempo, intensity rising, heart rate increasing, blood the chance to experience what we sor of cello and director of the cello studio for the ICM. pressure climbing. The two traded off seemingly impossible runs, did tonight and did not leave with a notes flowing so rapidly the ear could hardly keep up. Aggressive, alTogether, Veis and Sayevich performed the U.S. premiere of Dances and Laments, introduced onstage by Peter Fribbins, the British compos- sense of awe, we have lost our sense of most angry bow strokes flew across the strings, hands bouncing back er himself, no less. Fribbins aptly described the composition as a “wild forth along the instruments’ necks, desperate to push the notes humanity. and dance” between the violin and cello, and he was certainly correct in his out at their quickening, frantic pace. The frenetic dance surged to the Roger Kugler, ICM Director peak of its raw, thrilling energy, emotions flashing. metaphor.

The song began with a melancholy call and response between the two And then, silence.

The experience live music provides is something that simply cannot be found anywhere else. Though I may try, my words will never do justice to the strikingly unique affair in which I found myself at the concert.

Sayevich and Lisovskaya-Sayevich went on to perform four more brilliant pieces, including a breathtaking encore performance in which the duet displayed their overwhelming mastery of their instruments. Afterward, the audience erupted into applause and gave the pair a well-deserved standing ovation.

Kugler succinctly described what we as students, along with the rest of the community, have the opportunity enjoy and be enriched by after the performance.

“If any Park student,” he said, wiping his forehead with his handkerchief, “or anybody, had the chance to experience what we did tonight and did not leave with a sense of awe, we have lost our sense of humanity.”

Park’s ICM is unparalleled, Kugler said, and Park students have the rare opportunity to experience what most in the country cannot.

“What’s really incredible is that it’s truly unique-- one of a kind in the country. None of it can be duplicated anywhere. We have students winning international competitions. It’s a unique opportunity; [students] may never have another access to such a thing,” he said.

I must echo his thoughts; this was an incredible experience. I have attended plenty of concerts, both classical and contemporary, but this was a different beast. The mastery and artistry I had the privilege of witnessing will stick with me for a long time.

PHOTO/Logan Freeman The next ICM-sponsored event will feature the Tesla Quartet on Saturday, February 10 again Ben Sayevich (left) and Lolita Lisovskaya-Sayevich following their performance at the at the 1900 Building.

Park University ICM masters concert.

ENTERTAINMENT

Page 5 February 2, 2018

Valentine’s Day ideas for couples, singles, everyone

Abby Jeans Reporter

Another year has come along which means the inevitable holiday of love is quickly approaching. Yes, Valentine’s Day is almost here; the holiday that is both hated and loved by so many. No matter how you feel about Valentine’s Day, there are all kinds of events and activities to make February 14 a great day for anyone.

Here are the top five Valentine’s Day outings that are sure to make your day.

If you’re one of the lucky ones spending this day with someone special, dinner is a must. Many restaurants have specials for couples on Valentine’s Day, but none are quite as good as what Houlihan’s has to offer. For just $50 you and your partner can enjoy a four-course meal. With that price you will get a shareable appetizer, choice of soup or salad, entree and dessert. If you’re single, there’s no need to worry. You can enjoy a three course meal, bar side, for only $25. Hurry up and make your reservations!

If dinner is too cliché for you then head to the Kansas City Zoo. The Zoo will be hosting an event called the “Kiss and Tail” where you can explore love in the animal kingdom. There will be live music, hors d’oeurvres and a comedic presentation on jungle love. This is the perfect way

to shake up Valentine’s Day this year. Tickets are $50.

Boulevard Brewing Company is also hosting a Valentine’s Day themed event for all of those 21 and older. This might be the dream date for all the beer drinkers. Boulevard is calling this event, “Paper Crafts and Boozy drafts/ Valentine’s Day edition.” For $25 you can join host Emily Farris in crafting a homemade card while enjoying a beer cocktail developed by Emily, along with an additional beer. This event will take place at Boulevard Thursday, February 1 from 6-8 p.m.

If you and your partner want to stay active and healthy on Valentine’s Day instead of indulging yourselves on chocolate, then head on over to Climb KC. Climb KC is a rock climbing facility filled with different levels of rock walls. Unlimited climbing is just $18. To complete the date, try cooking a fresh meal at home with your Valentine!

Don’t worry single ladies, it’s time to find your perfect outing for Valentine’s Day or rather Galentine’s Day. Gather your girlfriends and head to Weston, Mo., on February 11 for a delicious Galentine’s Day brunch. Tickets are $23, and you get to enjoy a waffle bar, brunch goodies and beverage. Why not spend the holiday of love with some of your closest friends?

Whether you celebrate Valentine’s Day or Singles awareness day, shower the people you care about most with love and appreciation.

Laurel Gagnon advances in international violin competition

PHOTOS/Nate Robinson

Park University graduate student Laurel Gagnon, ’17, has advanced to the semifinal round of the Singapore International Violin Competition.

Gagnon will perform again on Friday, Feb. 2 at 2:45 a.m. Central time.

She is planning to play four pieces in the semifinals, including works by Beethoven and Zhangyi. You can find her first round performance on the Singapore International Violin Competition Facebook page. Finalists will be announced at 7 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 3. If Gagnon continues to advance, the winners will be revealed on Feb. 8. Left, Gagnon at Park University in Spring 2017.

CAMPUS LIFE

Page 6 February 2, 2018

Keep Me In College Coalition offers students financial assistance Dayana Plaisime Reporter

The Keep Me in College Coalition was established in Missouri. It is a nonprofit organization consisting of students, parents, faculty, university staff and friends who are concerned about the future of education. The coalition consists of those who believe that states and the nation should continue the tradition of policies that promote the betterment of students and higher education.

“Although it was focused by or formed by the organizations and the institutions like Park University, it’s open to students who attend all universities in Missouri,” said Erik Bergrud, associate vice president for external relations.

The coalition was founded about a decade ago in Missouri by members of the Independent Colleges and Universities, of which Park University is a long-standing member. It was originally established to focus on Missouri issues to preserve Access Missouri financial aid for eligible students attending independent colleges and universities in Missouri.

Over the years, Keep Me in College Coalition members, including Park University student leaders, have successfully fought to protect the Access Missouri program, which provides need-based financial aid to deserving

Welcome back bash Continued from page 1

corn hole and video games.

Not only did the International Club provide games and food, they gave away prizes.

What college student doesn’t love free stuff?

When students showed up to the event, they were given a raffle ticket, and winners were announced every 30 minutes. Students won Park hats, hoodies, blankets, Amazon gift cards and Barnes and Noble gift cards.

The International Club hopes to host more events like this in the future. Eriobuna wants students to allow their culture and diverse qualities shine. To feature the diversity of Park students, the club is working towards hosting an international cooking night where students can come learn about food from other cultures. The International Club meets every Thursday in Thompson Commons from 4-5 p.m. It’s open to all students. Email Eriobuna for more information at ikem.eriobuna@park.edu.

students. The coalition believes it is time to expand and focus more broadly on improving all aspects of higher education, such as protecting state and federal financial aid, student loans and work-study programs.

Park University and other schools in Missouri want to serve all students regardless of where they came from so education funding is critical.

Erik Bergrud, Associate Vice President for external relations Members will also use their voice to help shape the Higher Education Act Reauthorization, which is the law that oversees federal financial aid programs currently being debated in Congress.

“Park University and other schools in Missouri want to serve all students regardless of where they came from so education funding is critical,” Bergrud emphasized.

“Not everybody has access to the same financial resources so how and why we got started was to make sure all students could have access to resources; we’re focused on grants, scholarships and making sure that our universities are sustainable for years to come,” said Bergrud.

Students are encouraged to use their voices to help the coalition with their mission of keeping higher education affordable, protecting state and federal financial aid, and more.

“Part of it is getting to know what happens in the state, part of it is making a commitment to get knowledgeable about what’s happening on education issues,” said Bergrud. “Then there is a follow-up opportunity to get involved whether it’s to get involved via social media or get involved by contacting legislators,” said Bergrud.

Students can join the coalition by texting KMIC at 52886 or by visiting www.kmic.org/join-us, which will allow the coalition to contact you when you need to act or when something that is happening will have a toll on your dreams of a higher education. When issues arise, the coalition will supply you with talking points, email you templates and provide suggestions for tweets and Facebook posts so you can act. You are encouraged to follow the coalition on social media as well.

Park mourns the loss of former social work professor Carin Bublitz

PHOTO COURTESY/Park University

Tamara Lorraine Tucker died on Jan. 19. She had been a full-time faculty member in the department of social work at Park University from 20122017 and was an adjunct instructor before that, beginning in 2007.

Her family wrote in her obituary that she loved music, collecting seashells and sea glass, genealogy and more. Her former coworker and current Park University Assistant Professor of Social Work Leon Probasco similarly remembered his three years working with Tucker fondly.

“Tamara was a wonderful professor, colleague, social worker, mother and friend,” he wrote. “She was loved by her students, for whom she was teacher, mentor and advocate. She was devoted to her family, students and social work profession. She spoke the truth, even when others were quiet. Tamara will

live on in the memories and lives she touched. She always signed her emails with ‘Namaste,’ which in Sanskrit means ‘The Spirit in me sees the Spirit in you.’ May this continue to be true with her students, family and friends.”

Tucker earned her bachelor of social work from Avila University and masters of social work from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. She is survived by her partner, Eric Newman, her son Johnathan Jordan Tucker and Stephanie Anaya (Lenexa, KS) and granddaughters, Alexandria Tucker and Nicol Nunez, as well as her mother, stepfather, brother and sister.

The visitation was held January 30,.

Contributions may be made to the Tamara Loraine Tucker Memorial FunD, Lawson Bank (816-580-3150) 401 N Pennsylvania Ave, Lawson Missouri 64062.

CAMPUS LIFE

Page 7 February 2, 2018

New business organization for students at Park Carin Bublitz Reporter

PHOTO/Carin Bublitz Dustin Woods, faculty advisor, adjunct professor of business and Henrietta Stremel, president of SHRM, working on a project.

The Society for Human Resource Management, or Members also have access to SHRM KC, the Kansas City SHRM, recently became a brand-new society at Park chapter of SHRM, which has been around since 1952.

University. Their goal is to help students, staff, faculty and Being able to attend these meetings gives the opportunithe Parkville community network with Human Resource ty to meet and network with Human Resources directors professionals in order to create internship and employ- from all over the Kansas City area. There are also opporment opportunities. According to shrm.org, “SHRM is tunities to travel to both the Missouri SHRM convention the world’s largest Human resources professional society, and the National SHRM convention, taking place in Chirepresenting 285,000 members cago this year. This allows netin more than 165 countries.”

It gets me out and not just in my studies, but working and getting members’ In the past 90 days, 120 Park names out to big organizations to meet other people in organizations and just like Google and Adobe. FinalUniversity students have been know that there’s opportunities for me. recruited across 22 states and ly, members of SHRM have 43 campuses with the majority access to a huge database of being right here in Parkville, Henrietta Stremel, SHRM President Human Resource laws that are Missouri. added and change daily.

“What’s unique about When asked what her faSHRM is that we are not biased and only for Human Re- vorite part of being a member of SHRM was, SHRM sources majors. We are actually the opposite. We are for President Henrietta Stremel said, “it gets me out and not every major because our goals and mission for the club just in my studies, but to meet other people in organiare to create networking events for students of all ma- zations and just know that there’s opportunities for me.” jors and to help create internships and career pathways SHRM provides valuable social and networking opwith HR directors that belong strictly with SHRM,” said portunities to assist students, staff, alumni and the comDustin Woods, adjunct professor of business and human munity in acquiring the career of their dreams. SHRM resources and the faculty advisor of SHRM. meets every Wednesday at noon on the first floor of NorBeing a member of SHRM comes with its own set of rington Center. If interested, contact SHRM president benefits. SHRM has its own interviewing officer to set Stremel at Henrietta.Stremel@park.edu or SHRM faculup mock interviews with members so they can practice ty advisor Woods at Dustin.Woods@park.edu. answering interview questions for jobs they apply for.

Students leave Alamo Drafthouse with more than just a good movie Skylar Britt Reporter Park University’s Math Club and the Park Student Activities Board provided students the opportunity to visit the Alamo Drafthouse movie theater in downtown Kansas City on Tuesday, January 23. The two clubs joined together to sponsor the trip to see the movie “Hidden Figures.”

Upon hearing the moviegoers’ reactions to the film, it was obvious the overall consensus was that the movie was well-liked. However, some students left the movie with more than just feeling they had witnessed a great movie, but rather feeling they had a great sense of unity with those also in the theater.

The film focused on the racial and gender inequality experienced by African American women working at NASA in the late 1950s. Although their talents and intelligence greatly benefited the program, the color of their skin and the fact they were women caused them to be looked down on and treated unfairly in the workplace and in all aspects of life. However, they were able to work through this and accomplish great things for not only themselves, but also for the United States of America.

PSAB President and secondary education and biology major Margarita Araiza has

seen the movie many times but said this viewing was different than the others. The senior experienced a great feeling of unity and a sense of relief for the progress towards equality this country will continue to experience. With the audience filled with people of all races and cultures, the interactions with the movie were all the same.

“We all laughed, cried and reacted to the movie together,” said Araiza. “We all agreed that the treatment they faced wasn’t acceptable.”

With everyone being unified through the movie, it made the future of this country seem that much more hopeful that equality of all forms can be reached.

“It was really empowering and inspiring to see what the women in the movie were able to accomplish,” said Araiza. “It gets young girls excited and shows boys that the future is bright for everyone.”

It also made the trip more memorable for the PSAB president after all the hard work of helping to organize the trip.

“During the movie, we only saw each other’s company and not race or gender,” said Araiza. “It made the event that much more worth it.”

“It becomes more about work ethic than race and gender,” said Araiza. “There is still so much to accomplish, but I have no doubt that my peers as well as many others will continue to have a voice, act and influence our future in a positive light.”

FEATURES

Page 8 February 2, 2018

Park students published in scientific journal Alayna Howard Reporter

Three Park University students and their professor have published an academic article in a peer-reviewed science journal. The Review of Palaeobotany and Palynology accepted, reviewed and finally published an article titled, “Growth habit indicators from Permian Antarctic glossopterids.” The research for this article, and the article itself, were all completed by Park students Margarita Araiza, Shelby DeWitt and Brooke Kelly, with assistance and advising from Patricia Ryberg, Ph.D. Review of Palaeobotany and Palynology is a peer-reviewed scientific journal of palaeobotany – the study of fossil plants – and palynology, the study of pollen grains and spores.

The research began with a grant request written by Ryberg about how this could help understand ways to combat climate change. Araiza, who is a senior secondary education and biology major, talked about the idea behind the project.

“We studied a plant called the glossopertid from Antarctica,” Araiza said. “Photosynthesis – its main reactants are water and carbon dioxide,” she said. “Plants now, they would not have survived during the Permian time period [299 to 251 million years ago] because the carbon dioxide levels were just too high. And so [Ryberg] wrote this grant saying how right now, with climate change, our carbon dioxide levels are rising and right now these carbon dioxide levels are affecting our plants today. So she wrote PHOTOS COURTESY/MARGARITA ARAIZA this grant explaining From left: Brooke Kelly, Shelby DeWitt and Margarita this to the National Science Foundation.”

Araiza

This resulted in a research grant from the National Science Foundation.

“They actually gave her a grant to explore and to research over this glossopertid plant so we can understand how it survived during this time period. That way, we can see how our plants today can survive with our carbon dioxide levels right now,” Araiza said.

This research and the grant, also allowed DeWitt, Araiza and Dr. Ryberg to attend the Botany Conference in Savannah, Georgia, in August 2016.

“The conference was my favorite From left: Shelby DeWitt, Patricia Ryberg, Ph.D., and Marpart of the entire garita Araiza at the botany conference. experience,” said senior biology major DeWitt. “We got to travel somewhere, which was fun.”

At the conference, the group had the professional experience of presenting their preliminary research.

“It was fun to stand up, have professional clothing on, and answer questions,” DeWitt said. “That was probably the best part of the whole experience. I learned how to be confident in giving answers for questions people had.”

DeWitt described other benefits of this experience. “Even though as a science major, you do a lot of papers,” she said, “this was the first one where you had to be really picky about wording and about graphs, about our pictures.”

“I definitely don’t think this would be an opportunity I would have at another school, especially a bigger school,” DeWitt said. “Here, there are a lot of students, but I feel like we get more one-on-one time. At a bigger school...I probably would’ve had a lesser chance to be a part of it.”

Ryberg spent winter break camping in Antarctica to study “ancient polar environments,” according to a post on the Park University Facebook page. Ryberg, Rudy Serbet, Ph.D., and Brian Atkinson, Ph.D. – the former two being from The University of Kansas, where much of the research for the article took place – traveled about 350 miles from the South Pole.

SPORTS

Page 9 February 2, 2018

Optimism surrounds defending national champions management major, calls “a rough start,” the third-ranked and retuning national-champion Pirates won their first game over the sixth-ranked Cardinal Stritch University on Jan. 26.

They followed it with another win over Graceland University on Jan. 30. The team is 2-2 thus far in the season.

As with any team and the addition of new players, it takes time and practice to learn how to best work together on the court. However, Neves and his teamPHOTO COURTESY/PARK ATHLETICS mates are both hopeJunior outside hitter Mario Lucas and the Park men’s ful and excited about volleyball team have begun their season at 2-2. the games to come.

Skylar Britt Reporter After what outside hitter Victor Neves, senior business marketing and

“The season is looking good,” said Neves. “We have a strong team with a lot of potential.”

One of the new players, freshman Hiago Crins, who is from Brazil, has enjoyed his time on the team so far.

“I like the practices and the team has a lot of nice people.” said Crins.

“There are many Brazilian players, which has helped me a lot.”

While his major is currently undecided, he is thinking about studying business computer information systems management.

The middle blocker has a hopeful outlook on the season and the years to come as a volleyball player for Park University.

“I believe the team has a great future, and I can definitely see myself here as an athlete,” said Crins.

This being the last season for the captain and only senior on the team,

Neves looks back at his experience as a Park athlete with great pride.

“The team has made me grow so much as a person and an athlete,” said Neves. “It has not only provided me with the chance to earn my degree while I play, but has also given me lifelong friends.”

Neves wants to end his Park volleyball career in the most memorable way he can.

“We are expecting to be National Champions again this year,” said Neves.

The team not only wants to have a successful season, but one that is also exciting for both the organization and the fans.

The Pirates first home game is Friday, February 2 at 7 p.m. against (2-2) Morningside College from Sioux City, Iowa.

Track and field speeds through indoor season Christian McFadden Reporter The sport of track and field has been around about as long as humans have. According to AthleticScholarships.net, the first running events may have been recorded as early as the ninth century in Olympia, a society among the Greek culture. The sport more officially came into existence in 776 B.C. when a cook named Koroibos ran and won a 600-foot dash in the original Olympic stadium. Of course, the sport expanded beyond running over the years into the many events we know today.

The season for Park University’s track and field team started off with a bang. In the meet on Jan. 19 at Johnson County Community College in Overland Park, two athletes qualified for nationals. Senior Jerosan Fletcher measured 5.72 meters in the long jump, and senior Aaliyah Brown threw 13.4 meters in shot put to start the season strong. But these athletes are no strangers to the road towards an All-American designation; both have done it

season after season since their sophomore year.

For the men, junior Nicholas Rotich won the 3,000 meters in 9:02.

In the season’s second meet at Pittsburg State on Jan. 27, seven track and field athletes set personal bests. Brown broke a school record for shot put as well as her personal record, with a throw of 14.33 meters.

Only three more indoor track meets are left this season. With so little time left, the pressure is high to qualify for nationals.

Instead of focusing on simply qualifying, most of the participants on the team have said they are looking forward to the outdoor part of the season, where they typically perform better.

The team also has a lot of optimism around the new freshmen and transfer athletes. There are 17 freshmen listed on the men’s roster and five on the women’s roster. Further, they are coached by Brian Renshaw, in his 27th season at

Park. The team has focus and respect for the plans the coaching staff is putting in place. The relays are projected to qualify for nationals, so there are a lot of exciting developments to keep looking for in the future.

PHOTO COURTESY/ PARK ATHLETICS Senior Jerosan Fletcher competes in the long jump at Johnson County Community College on Jan. 20.

SPORTS

Page 10 February 2, 2018

Men’s basketball limps toward the finish line points. Although the scoring efficiency improved in the second half, Park trailed for all but the first 30 seconds of the 20-minute period en route to their Park University’s men’s basketball team struggled fourth straight American Midwest Conference over winter break. After starting the season 2-3 with (AMC) loss.

After two straight losses of four points or fewer, a victory over a top 25 opponent, the Pirates have experienced three separate losing streaks of at least the Pirates resumed their skid 12 days later with a three games. As of January 29, Park’s record sits at a double-digit loss to Hannibal-LaGrange University, 68-58. On December 16, the Pirates’ winning perdismal 4-14.

The Pirates’ downhill skid began on November centage hit its lowest mark so far this season, .222, 30 against Central Baptist College. The Mustangs after an 84-73 defeat against Lindenwood Universioutshot Park in both volume and efficiency in the ty-Belleville.

Park ended their four-game losing streak three first half while taking a 14-point lead into halftime. days after Christmas, beating Saint Louis College of Park shook off their shooting woes in the second half, going 17-for-34 from the field and 3-for-8 from Pharmacy by 31 points. The Pirates enjoyed a stellar 3-point range. The Pirates cut Central Baptist’s lead night from downtown, going 11-for-24 from behind to just six with over 10 minutes to play in the second the arc. Junior guard Josh Rutland and freshman guard Juan Quarles led the three-point barrage, finhalf but ultimately fell short, losing 71-66.

Park would drop their second straight close game ishing a combined 9-for-13 from deep. Twelve difjust two days later against Lyon College in an ugly ferent Pirates broke into the scoring column to give display for both teams. The Scots finished the first Park their first AMC victory of the season.

Two days later, Park picked up their fourth vichalf 7-for-28 from the field for an embarrassing 25 percent mark. Despite Lyon College’s shoot- tory of the season after beating a solid Benedictine ing struggles, Park kept the Scots in the game by College team 70-61. Junior Guard Zach Rutland turning the ball over 12 times. The score was knot- flashed his offensive prowess, leading all scorers with ted at halftime, with both teams managing just 19 29 points and dishing out six assists. Senior Mason Stuteville padded his stats as well. The nearly-seven foot center finished with a 20-point, 14 rebound double-double to give the Pirates their second straight win.

Park’s second losing streak of the season began on January 2 against then No. 7 Columbia College. The Cougars snagged a 12-point halftime lead thanks to a sterling 58 percent mark from the field. The Pirates and Cougars were close to even in nearly every statistical category except for shooting percentage. Park failed to shoot better than 44 percent in either half, allowing Columbia College to simply coast to their 15th victory of the season. The 72-59 loss PHOTO COURTESY/PARK ATHLETICS dropped Park to 4-8 on the season.

Sophomore guard Brandon Townsell cuts to the basket against Lin- Just two days after competing reldenwood University-Belleville on Dec. 16. atively well against one of the best Connor Jones Sports Editor

PHOTO COURTESY/PARK ATHLETICS Sophomore foward Vincent Phillips extends for a dunk against Saint-Louis College of Pharmacy on Dec. 28. teams in the country, Park suffered their worst loss of the season to Harris-Stowe State University in a forgettable performance for everyone involved.

Neither team shot over 40 percent from the field, with the Hornets tallying a 39 percent mark and the Pirates finishing at an even worse 32 percent. An abundance of turnovers complemented the poor shooting; Park and Harris-Stowe ended the game with 21 turnovers apiece. The Hornets buried Park by 23 points due to the Pirates’ complete collapse at the free-throw line. The Pirates went just 13-for-30 from the charity stripe to cap off a dreadful 77-54 defeat.

Following their worst outing of the season, Park traveled to Walnut Ridge, Ark., for a winnable matchup against Williams Baptist College. The Pirates played some of their best basketball of the season in the first half. Park shot 15-for-30 from the field, 4-for-10 from three-point range and record-

SPORTS display for both teams. The Scots finished the first half 7-for-28 from the field for an embarrassing 25 percent mark. Despite Lyon College’s shooting struggles, Park kept the Scots in the game by turning the ball over 12 times. The score was knotted at halftime, with both teams managing just 19 points.

Although the scoring efficiency improved in the second half, Park trailed for all but the first 30 seconds of the 20-minute period en route to their fourth straight American Midwest Conference (AMC) loss.

After two straight losses of four points or fewer, the Pirates resumed their skid 12 days later with a double-digit loss to Hannibal-LaGrange University, 68-58. On December 16, the Pirates’ winning percentage hit its lowest mark so far this season, .222, after an 84-73 defeat against Lindenwood University-Belleville.

Park ended their four-game losing streak three days after Christmas, beating Saint Louis College of Pharmacy by 31 points. The Pirates enjoyed a stellar night from downtown, going 11-for-24 from behind the arc. Junior guard Josh Rutland and PHOTO COURTESY/PARK ATHLETICS freshman guard Juan Quarles led the three-point Freshman forward Ernest Myles slices through mul- barrage, finishing a combined 9-for-13 from deep. tiple Lindenwood University-Belleville defenders on Twelve different Pirates broke into the scoring colDec. 16. umn to give Park their first AMC victory of the season.

Two days later, Park picked up their fourth vicContinued from page 10 tory of the season after beating a solid Benedictine College team 70-61. Junior Guard Zach Rutland Park University’s men’s basketball team struggled flashed his offensive prowess, leading all scorers over winter break. After starting the season 2-3 with with 29 points and dishing out six assists. Senior a victory over a top 25 opponent, the Pirates have Mason Stuteville padded his stats as well. The nearexperienced three separate losing streaks of at least ly-seven foot center finished with a 20-point, 14 three games. As of January 29, Park’s record sits at rebound double-double to give the Pirates their a dismal 4-14. second straight win.

The Pirates’ downhill skid began on November Park’s second losing streak of the season began 30 against Central Baptist College. The Mustangs on January 2 against then No. 7 Columbia Coloutshot Park in both volume and efficiency in the lege. The Cougars snagged a 12-point halftime lead first half while taking a 14-point lead into halftime. thanks to a sterling 58 percent mark from the field.

Park shook off their shooting woes in the second The Pirates and Cougars were close to even in nearhalf, going 17-for-34 from the field and 3-for-8 ly every statistical category except for shooting perfrom 3-point range. The Pirates cut Central Baptist’s centage. Park failed to shoot better than 44 percent lead to just six with over 10 minutes to play in the in either half, allowing Columbia College to simply second half but ultimately fell short, losing 71-66. coast to their 15th victory of the season. The 72-59 Park would drop their second straight close game loss dropped Park to 4-8 on the season. just two days later against Lyon College in an ugly Just two days after competing relatively well

Page 11 Feburary 2, 2018 against one of the best teams in the country, Park suffered their worst loss of the season to Harris-Stowe State University in a forgettable performance for everyone involved. Neither team shot over 40 percent from the field, with the Hornets tallying a 39 percent mark and the Pirates finishing at an even worse 32 percent. An abundance of turnovers complemented the poor shooting; Park and Harris-Stowe ended the game with 21 turnovers apiece. The Hornets buried Park by 23 points due to the Pirates’ complete collapse at the free-throw line. The Pirates went just 13-for-30 from the charity stripe to cap off a dreadful 77-54 defeat.

Following their worst outing of the season, Park traveled to Walnut Ridge, Ark., for a winnable matchup against Williams Baptist College. The Pirates played some of their best basketball of the season in the first half. Park shot 15-for-30 from the field, 4-for-10 from three-point range and recorded 10 assists for a 36-32 halftime lead. The Pirates reverted to their inefficient habits, shooting just 43 percent in the second period while allowing the Eagles to score 46 second half points. William Baptist

Men’s basketball

PHOTO COURTESY/PARK ATHLETICS Freshman guard Jacob Kline attempts a corner three against Missouri Baptist University on Nov. 16.

FEATURES

Page 12 February 2, 2018

Park packs 10,000 meals to nourish food insecurity Zartasha Sani Reporter

On Friday, Jan. 26, Park University students and staff packed into the Breckon Sports Center to package 10,000 meals to give back to their local community. The event was organized by President Greg Gunderson, Ph.D. and his wife, Laurie Gunderson, as well as Board of Trustee member Jim Cornelius and his wife, Bobbi Cornelius. It was made possible by The Pack Shack.

The Pack Shack’s mission is to bring awareness to the problem of food insecurity, poverty and food-related issues affecting communities near us today. They provide a way for the local community to get involved in a nonprofit organization while having fun and giving back at the same time. The organization packages 10,000 meals for only

President Greg Gunderson speaks to volunteers as they are working.

25 cents each which provides food that is not only accessible but is also nutritious.

Their “feed the funnel” parties make the time fly by, encouraging everyone to get involved, and creating a fun and open environment where meals are packed from start to finish.

Each station has the ingredients which are measured by a group of volunteers and poured into a bag. When a container is filled with bags, a runner is then called over to transport the bags to the next station, so they can be weighed and sealed. Once they are sealed, they are stored together until there are enough packages to fill a box. For every 1,000 meals that are prepared, participants are asked to strike a gong, which further motivates the volunteers. All of this happens while there’s dance music and dance breaks in the background.

The event came about with the effort of many leaders at Park. Laurie Gunderson was inspired by senior Ikemefuna Eriobuna’s idea for a coat drive in the fall which led to both she and the approaching the Board of Trustees to further discuss ways they could help the students at Park. Upon Laurie Gunderson’s research, food insecurity was an important issue facing students all over college campuses. Jim Cornelius responded by

recommending The Pack Shack. He and his wife began fundraising with a GoFundMe page, as the President and Laurie Gunderson began their own fundraising efforts, which provided $3,000 in Hy-Vee gift cards to help Park students over the holidays.

“I hope that this (event) helps connect the nonprofit organizations in the community to us, to know that we have a pool of student here at Park who cares about their community and is willing to help,” said Laurie Gunderson. All the leaders at the event emphasized how impressed and proud they were that students and faculty were willing to lend their time on a beautiful Friday afternoon to help feed others in our community. Sports teams to university organizations and even staff members were present at the event. More than 100 members of the Park family dedicated their time and effort to make this event possible. Laurie Gunderson said she hoped that this would not only help the community but become a bonding experience for the students and is something that can be a repeat event at Park.

Meal packers celebrate by tossing their hairnets in the air.

PHOTOS/ZARTASHA SANI