The Stylus - Volume 129 - Issue 5 - May 3, 2024

s u l y t S e h T

Volume 129

ISSUE

2023-24

#5

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A student publication of Park University since 1895

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Students earn top awards at annual Honors Convocation Two multimedia journalism students earn most prestigious university honors on April 17 Nathan Matthews Editor Park University hosted the annual Honors Convocation on April 17, 2024, in the Graham Tyler Memorial Chapel. Two students from Park’s communication program earned top honors.

Pictured left, Skyler Jensen, multimedia journalism/

public relations and communications studies double major and Editor-in-Chief of The Stylus, as well as biology major Annastasia Bair (center), were given the most prestigious honor bestowed on any student at Park University, the Outstanding Parkite Award. This award is given to two students on the University’s Parkville Campus who best exemplify the ideals of the University in their character, conduct, scholarship and student

activity participation.

Pictured right, Bryce Butler, multimedia journalism/ public relations major and Editor for The Stylus, as well as graphic design major Zoe Franzen (not pictured), were honored with the Louisa Davidson Hinde/Carolyn Hinde Zarkaryan Memorial Award. This is awarded to students, faculty, staff and/or alumni who best represent the spirit of Park University by promoting in others that quality of excellence that has always been associated with a Park education.

In addition, the President’s Award for Teaching Excellence, given to recognize a full-time faculty member who exemplifies excellence in teaching, was this year awarded to Brian Hoffman, Professor of Biology.

The J.L. Zwingle Award, which pays tribute to an outstanding faculty member as voted by the student body, went to Andrea Lee, Ph.D., associate professor of art and design, and director of the Campanella Gallery. And the Excellence in Academic Advising Award was given to Jeff Kimmons, Ph.D., associate professor of biology.

In This Issue:

Park University to hold 2024 commencement Opinion..................2-3 Audrey Hentges elor’s degree, associate degree and/or undergraduate certificate.

Kansas City entrepreneur CiCi Rojas, the CEO of Tico ProducEditor

Park University’s 2024 Commencement will be held Saturday, May 4, at 10 a.m. at the Cable Dahmer Arena in Independence, Mo. A total of 687 students are receiving their degrees, 242 for their master’s degree and/or graduate certificates and 445 for their bach-

tions and Tico Sports LLC, which she founded with her husband in 2013, will present the keynote address to graduates.

Over the course of her career, Rojas has worked to improve Kansas City. By building successful for-profit endeavors, she has worked to advance economic, political and social change in the city.

Campus Life.........4-6 Features....................7 Sports..................8-10 Entertainment....11-12

OPINION

Page 2 May 3, 2024

The end of an era at Park University Skyler Jensen Editor-in-Chief

On my computer, at any moment, I easily have at least 50 tabs open. Some are in my web browsers, and some are random documents. Anytime anyone looks at my computer, they look at me like I’m crazy.

But this is normal for me. I’m used to functioning this way. For the past four years, I have been a student, an intern and an Editor-in-Chief. When you have that much going on, it is hard to convince yourself to close out of any tabs, and it became the way my brain functioned.

On overdrive.

This last week as a Park student has been one of the most stressful of my education, but I feel like that sums up my experience here. Yes, I may have been stressed and at times overwhelmed, but I learned to thrive under pressure and to adapt whenever needed.

It has been a challenging four years, but as I look towards the future, I’ve found myself reflecting on my experience as a Park Pirate. On how I have grown beyond the classroom. How I have evolved into the next version of myself by making myself uncomfortable.

I was recently honored to receive the Outstanding Parkite Award. However, to be honest, the first thing I thought of when I won it was watching Honors Convo-

cation in my sophomore year when Sophie Roper and Bayan Salam received the award. As I watched those two ladies walk across the stage, I sat there going, “I want to earn that award while I’m here.” And then, I did. Now, it feels like the tip of the iceberg reminding me of my growth and perseverance.

I’m proud to be a Park graduate knowing that I have done my best to leave an impact wherever I have been including my classes and at The Stylus. I will be sad to say goodbye to this campus I have called home for the past four years. But I think this is a sign that it is finally time to close some of those tabs on my computer and slow down.

Grappling with a deeper meaning of sacrifice Damon Grosvenor Editor “Sacrifice.” I thought I knew what that word entailed. I was always surrounded by sacrifice during my time in the United States Navy. On April 12, 2024, I gained a far deeper understanding of what it means.

On this date, the love of my life, my fiancée Ashlyn Weber, departed for Naval Station Newport, Rhode Island, to begin her naval career. It had been her goal before we met, and I knew of it. It was a specter looming beneath every joyous moment we had together. I thought I really knew the challenge that this separation would bring, but nothing can prepare you.

I first thought I understood what sacrifice meant during my time in bootcamp in December of 2016. I missed Christmas with my family for the first time. I was deprived of free time, the Internet, a good book, and even the ability to call and talk to my folks. But I was more than occupied.

Between drilling, training, marching, and waiting in line, my time was always filled. I had little time to dwell on the separation from my family. It was one of the proudest moments of life to be recognized

by my Recruit Drill Instructors as a Sailor and not a recruit. When they donned my head with a Navy ballcap, replacing the emblazoned “Recruit” with a golden “Navy,” my eyes welled with tears. It was the most challenging time of my life, or so I thought.

I thought I understood sacrifice when I left for my first duty station, Armed Forces Network Diego Garcia. The remote destination was a pivotal learning experience for my younger self. I thought I had found love, but it was not to be.

The sharp edge of the island’s loneliness was thankfully tempered by the friends I made. Without Internet, I replaced my gaming habits with reading and hanging out with friends. There was sacrifice on Diego, but it was not I who was suffering.

I thought I knew sacrifice when I was stationed in Italy. The transition was difficult, but it was easier than Diego. Instead of a tropical island, I was now in a first-world city with the commodities of the 21st century. But, the storm cloud of sadness, with its lightning bolts of despair and freezing rain of numbness, slowly enveloped me. I felt so alone.

I thought I knew what sacrifice meant when my brother attempted suicide in early 2020. The lockdowns had just occurred. I couldn’t leave Naples, Italy. I was

stuck. I was alone. I was an ocean away from my brother in his darkest time. Trying to cope was the most difficult thing I had ever experienced. I fell deeply into self-destruction. I drank very heavily. I sat at home and cried.

I truly thought I knew what sacrifice meant, and I did, to be fair to myself. I knew what it meant to be the one leaving, to be the one who was gone. But that is only half of the sacrifice required of military service. It is more than a service member’s separation and risk to protect their country. There is another side of sacrifice that I was completely unaware of; the sacrifice of those who stay and watch the ones they love leave.

I proposed to my fiancée on March 16, 2024 at English Landing Park. It was the happiest moment of my life. Our paths crossed at the right time for our love to blossom. It was upon learning she was trying to enter Officer Candidate School that I got my butt kicked in gear and I asked her out. I thought I knew how difficult it is to see those you love to leave. I was wrong.

When we were preparing for her to leave, I was able to see the rays of sunshine she provided me with through that thunderhead of sorrow which ominously loomed over the horizon. I was the only

one not crying when she said goodbye to her family. They had never experienced a loved one leave. I had. At least, I had

See Sacrifice on page 3

Staff List Editor-in-chief Skyler Jensen

Design Editors

Abby Beagel Bryce Butler Mason Danner Damon Grosvenor Halle Magee Nathan Matthews Matalyn Smith

Editors

Audrey Hentges Jaylynn Tucker

Adviser

Melody Alexander

OPINION

Page 3 May 3, 2024

A letter to the Pirates Class of 2024 Bryce Butler Editor To my fellow Pirates, As we approach the end of this short chapter at Park University, it’s helpful to reflect on what brought us here in the first place. One could say it was for the affordability, or closeness to home, but ultimately we’ve gone through this institution to cultivate the talents and skill sets that the Most High God has given us.

There are many colleges where we could’ve done this, but one thing we’ll remember about Park is the effort we made to improve the culture for the classes after us. We may not have seen the fruit of our labor in the here-and-now, but I’d encourage us to keep a sense of gratitude in our final days as Pirates.

Our university motto is Fides Et Labor, which translates to “Faith and Work.”

While I think we greatly uphold the work aspect of that motto, I’d like for us to reflect on who we are placing our faith in.

There is a real temptation to seek identity in the things we do, rather than who we are. It is natural for us to try filling the void in our hearts with entertainment, careers, relationships, drugs, alcohol, etc.

But those things often leave us feeling more empty and disappointed than we were before we began pursuing them.

Having this in mind raises the following questions: Who are we? And what are we supposed to be doing? Part of answering these questions is first understanding who God is.

Because God is “the Holy One” according to the book of Hosea, He cannot be in the presence of sin. It would go against his nature. When the very first man, Adam, sinned in Genesis, he separated all of humanity from having fellowship with God. What does that mean for us? It means that we were born into this world with the same sinful nature that Adam had, separating us from God. This is why no one had to teach us how to lie, or steal, or disobey when we were little. That sinful nature was in us from birth.

But as the verse in John 3:16 reads, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

The key word there is “whoever.” The invitation is for everyone, but only those who make the choice to accept Christ into their heart will be saved from an eternity

My Park University experience Jaylynn Tucker Editor It has been an extremely interesting experience for me to attend Park University. By participating in full-time school and in track and field, I believe I have discovered a wealth of previously unknown aspects of myself. Park University has been an incredible experience.

I only attended Park for two years; prior to that, I attended a small community college in a small Illinois town. Park gave me the opportunity to get more involved and to become enthusiastic about seeing what a university is like.

It’s interesting to see new people and places every time. For a lot of individuals, I believe Park creates a lot of experiences. The campus stands apart from other schools due to its diversity, the array of activities and resources it provides for students.

For me, Park has opened a lot of doors, most notably the opportunity to receive my Bachelor of Multimedia Journalism with a concentration in Marketing. Sincerely, I can state that this experience has been quite beneficial. After earning my degree, I plan to use what I’ve learned from Park University to work in marketing at a psychology practice.

separated from God. It doesn’t matter what your background is, what trauma you’ve experienced, or what hurt you’ve caused someone else. Jesus Christ took on the burden of our sins so that we don’t have to carry that weight anymore. If we confess our sins, repent, and accept him into our hearts, he will wash and forgive all of them. He will make us new.

I’d be remiss not to point to the work of Jesus Christ on the cross because it is the only fulfilling source of identification we can ever have. The things that the world upholds as valuable are passing away, “but whoever does the will of God lives forever,” says 1 John 2:17.

I want us to begin this next chapter of life moving in the right direction. Understanding our identity in Jesus Christ will put an end to the division that is dominating the culture. Our lives are short, and

Park happens to be another stop on the journey. I’m sure you’re all aware that this is not the final destination. We have much more left to do.

Let’s leave Park understanding that when the wind and waves pick up, the ships that are our lives will not sink. We’ve faced many trials in the last few years including the COVID-19 pandemic, inflated gas prices, the Grimace Milkshake, the clash of Barbie-Heimer, and yes, even our Chiefs tight end placing the franchise in the same light as your little sister’s favorite singer-songwriter.

Nonetheless, we overcame these things. As Pirates, we will change the course of the culture, steering things back in the right direction. I leave you with a word of advice that my mother has given me many times before: “Only what you do for Christ will last.” Thank you.

Sacrifice Continued from page 2 experienced what Ashlyn was feeling.

Never had I been in the shoes of a loving family member watching their future spouse leave for uncertain waters.

I was ill prepared as it turned out.

I did not fully understand the reality of her absence until I was in the car. When I looked over and saw an empty passenger seat, I cried. It was a seat she so lovingly and beautifully occupied, like the impossibly large hole in my heart she filled. And it felt like I was alone again. I realized the pain and fear so many before us have felt. I know what sacrifice means now.

I understood, even if I never faced it, what the sacrifice my service would entail in the direst of circumstances. I hope to face that challenge with dignity and competency if it is required of me.

But that is so much easier than seeing

those you love have to face that same sacrifice.

It is far easier to leave those you love than for those you love to leave. It is a lesson I will never forget.

Like an uncertain course a ship must take to discover a new land, we embarked upon our journey knowing that dangerous shoals and tides would cause us heartache and pain. And it is not a destination that is important for a journey such as this. It is the journey. The next step you take is the most important. Like a fire forever burning, our love will light the way through the darkness of an uncertain future. It will bring heat and passion to the cold, numbing winds of adversity we shall face. Soon enough, we will face it together again.

CAMPUS LIFE

Page 4 May 3, 2024

Student journalists honored at annual awards events Melody Alexander Advisor The Stylus, Park University’s student newspaper, and several of Park’s student journalists were recognized in April for their role at the university, as well as for excellence in journalism.

The Stylus was named Student Organization of the year during Park’s 29th annual Dr. Doris A. Howell Leadership Awards, held April 10. The award was given “to the student organization that imparts strong sense of purpose, understands its mission, and provides involvement and support opportunities.”

In addition, The Stylus and its staff were recognized with 12 individual awards, one

website award, and one publication award during the Missouri College Media Association’s annual awards ceremony, held during the MCMA Convention April 6 at Crown Center in Kansas City, Mo. The Stylus earned the second place award in the sweepstakes category for Division 3. Other Division 3 schools include Avila University, Culver-Stockton College, Drury University, Evangel University, Missouri Valley College, and William Jewell College.

Multimedia journalism and public relations and communication studies double major and The Stylus Editor-in-Chief, Skyler Jensen, earned first place awards for sports page writing and design. Multimedia journalism and public relations

graduate Elisha Knapp earned a first place award for column writing for a piece she wrote about the end of printed newspaper for Park. Multimedia journalism and public relations graduate Nathan Dunn earned a first place for sports photography. Lastly, communication studies major Danny Burger earned a first place award for a non-political or entertainment cartoon.

Jensen also earned second place awards for her sports column and sports page, a third place award for newswriting, and an honorable mention for sports writing. Burger earned a second place award for column writing. Jensen and Dunn earned an honorable mention for op/ed page design as well as a third place for sports page writing and design. Jensen and Burger earned a second page for a feature page.

The Stylus has been a consistent part of the Park community since 1895, and during that time, it’s served as an organization that trains students who will become professional journalists. It has acted as a historical record of campus and com-

munity events. And it’s given generations of students the ability to take on leadership roles that serve them well beyond their college education.

These recent honors exemplify the continued importance of journalism and the role it plays both for the Park campus and its students. As The Stylus has been forced to adapt in a changing world, the paper has had its share of challenges.

However, these recent awards highlight the continued importance it plays in today’s world.

As we close out the semester and begin looking toward next year, please consider joining this award-winning team. Whether you’re a writer, photographer, videographer or designer, The Stylus is a great environment where you can hone your skills and be a part of a legacy.

We also encourage you to keep supporting The Stylus. Check out StylusOnline.org. Follow the newspaper on social media. Comment and share when a story speaks to you. Our team appreciates feedback and knowing they’re creating stories that resonate with their audience.

Student Spotlight Jaylynn Tucker Editor

PHOTO/Melody Alexander From left to right, editors Bryce Butler, Nathan Matthews and Damon Grosvenor and Editor-in-Chief Skyler Jensen, who were four of the members of The Stylus’ team for the spring semester, pose with a trophy the paper earned during the annual Dr. Doris A. Howell Leadership Awards.

Dawn McIntyre is a sophomore at Park University, and a member of the Park Track and Field team. Originally from Independence, Mo., Dawn is majoring in Sport and Exercise Science and is expected to graduate in May of 2026.

She plans to move on to graduate school to become a physician assistant, as well as intends to work as an athletic trainer after graduation.

Dawn offered words of encouragement to all Park students: “Be yourself; you’re enough.”

Good luck from Park University on the remainder of your academic path and thank you, Dawn for your encouraging message.

PHOTO/Jaylynn Tucker

CAMPUS LIFE

Page 5 May 3, 2024

Park Pirates gather to watch solar eclipse Damon Grosvenor Editor The Park University community ventured outside to view the partial solar eclipse on April 8, 2024.

Parkville experienced a deep coverage (90.1 percent) solar eclipse at 1:54 p.m. As the moon passed between the Earth and the sun, the Parkville campus was covered in an eerie dusk-like tone.

The main student gathering centered around Thompson Commons where over 50 students gathered shortly after noon. Student Life provided a limited amount of free eclipse glasses and snacks. Students spread out on the grass and used their special glasses to watch the astronomical phenomenon.

Another group of students trekked up the hill to the old observatory. “It was just amazing,” said Kofi Black, an MBA sophomore from Ghana.

Philip Walker, a freshman from Ghana, said the eclipse is something special to behold.

Both Black and Walker last viewed an eclipse in 2006 in Ghana.

Martin Roberson, a secondary education sophomore, brought eclipse glasses he saved from 2017, when Kansas City last experienced a solar eclipse. “I was cleaning out some old boxes of stuff and I found I still had sealed 2017 glasses, and I thought it was pretty funny,” he said.

Since this year’s eclipse was not total, Martin did not find it as cool.

“It’s still a neat thing to experience; you get to see so many of these in your life.” Martin enjoys hanging out with friends on campus, and this was a great excuse to do just that.

Outside of Norrington Library, Park University President Shane Smeed and several Board of Trustee members donned their eclipse glasses alongside students and faculty. “I thought the eclipse has been fantastic. It reminds me of 2017, when everyone got together at Julian Field … a lot of smiles,” said Smeed.

Ashlyn Weber, who graduated in 2019 from Park, and was formerly the associate director of the George S. Robb Centre, came back to campus to visit and view the eclipse. “It was a very congenial experience,” said Weber.

“It was nice to see faculty, staff and students experiencing the same event.” Weber remembered the last eclipse, saying, “The one in 2017 was a better eclipse, but I enjoyed myself more being with good friends, former colleagues and the weather was beautiful.”

Solar eclipses occur regularly, according to AP News, but these often occur where no one can view them, over the Pacific Ocean or Antarctica. The next solar eclipse will occur in 2026 but will only be viewable in Greenland. North America will experience a total eclipse in 2033, but only in Alaska. The next solar eclipse viewable in the continental United States is not until 2044, according to NASA, and will only be viewable in three states.

Missouri is not one of those states.

Park Speech & Debate go to IPDA Nationals Damon Grosvenor Editor

Park University’s Speech and Debate Team participated in the International Public Debate Associations (IPDA) National Tournament in Starksville, Miss., located on the Mississippi State University campus, from April 12-15, 2024. Ashlee Dureka, freshman, went 9-1 and ended 32nd best in the nation. There were 48 other schools attending the tournament with nearly 600 student debaters.

Adam Wilkins, a senior majoring in nursing and vice president of the team, advanced to double octofinals in Varsity IPDA. Dureka went to elimination rounds and ended in double octofinals for Novice IPDA. She competed against 127 other entries in Novice IPDA. Wilkins and Martin Roberson, a sophomore secondary-education major and president of the team, advanced to double octofinals in Team IDPA. Dureka and Dani Burg, a freshman accounting major and Park Pirate soccer goalie, participated in Novice Team IPDA. “I love debate,” said Dureka. “It’s my favorite thing. If could get paid just to overthink and debate all day long, I would do it.” Dureka joined Park Speech and Debate the beginning of this academic school year, in Sept. 2023.

The event was tightly run, with no event going over time, said Lara Cohn, Ph. D., the team’s coach. The league of debate is growing phenomenally. “This was the big-

gest tournament they’ve had since COVID,” said Cohn.

Friday, April 12, was team IPDA. Saturday and Sunday, April 13 and 14, were Novice and Varsity IPDA. Monday, April 15, was quarter-finals and finals.

Dureka has grown extensively, according to Cohn.

The first couple of tournaments the more experienced debaters, Roberson and Wilkins, did very well. Throughout the season they imparted their knowledge onto the freshman and let them excel.

Cohn gave praise for all the members. Roberson learned the valuable lesson of humility, said Cohn.

Wilkins learned the importance of school-life balance, having to juggle Speech and Debate with his nursing finals and clinicals. Dureka learned to come out of her shell and become more assertive in her argumentation.

Dani Burg, a freshman accounting major and Park Pirate soccer goalie, honed her ability to listen and dismantle arguments. Zachary Knowles, a freshman secondary education major, learned to be cautious with what you say because it can be and will be used against you. Arastas Allen, a freshman communications major, learned that you cannot always trust your own judgment for how something went.

The team improved most on their research abilities, said Cohn. Dureka, Roberson and Burg agreed with that assessment.

Overall, the team did well this year, said Cohn. She is

PHOTO COURTESY/Park Speech & Debate Ashlee Dureka, left, and Adam Wilkins, right, pose for a photograph at the IPDA Nationals tournament. preparing for next year. She wants to focus on the fundamentals. Specifically, she mentioned a focus on cross-examination.

CAMPUS LIFE

Page 6 May 3, 2024

Symposium showcases student achievement Matalyn Smith Editor Park University held the 19th Annual Student Research and Creative Arts Symposium in the Watson Literacy Classroom and Park Avenue in the Academic Underground on April 22 and 23.

Students showcased their art presentations, graphic design presentations, interior design presentations, science oral presentations and Honors Academy oral presentations, which were displayed from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday, April 22.

Students presented posters, digital posters and oral presentations on Tuesday, April 23. These presentations went from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Students submitted coursework, independent research or visual art displays with faculty supervision. The presenting students were in undergraduate and graduate programs, from a variety of majors. All presentations lasted around 15 minutes including time for questions.

Kristina Mitchell, senior biology major, gave an oral presentation about hip injuries and prevention in ballet dancers on April 22. She talked about the history of ballet, hip

anatomy, diagnosis, treatment options and injury prevention. Her argument was that ballet needs more injury prevention programs and more research done on treatment options.

One senior who presented as part of the Honors Academy was Skyler Jensen, communication studies and multimedia journalism/public relations student. She spoke about John Gottman’s Four Horsemen and how this theory relates to college students.

She worked with John Hamilton, Emeritus Associate Professor of Criminal Justice.

“John Gottman’s Four Horsemen are toxic conflict behaviors that this researcher, who worked in relationships for over 40 years, found to be indicators of divorce in married couples,” she explained. Jensen sent out a survey to Park University students to see if these behaviors were present in that age demographic. After analyzing the results, she found they could be present but weren’t necessarily common.

Jensen explained that “some of the benefits when presenting is you learn to be more comfortable with an audience, being able to handle questions when asked on the spot and learning those innate skills that you need to have as a communications student”.

Anyone can sign up to do presentations for the next research and art symposium as long as it is before the deadline.

Opinion: Studying abroad opens student’s eyes Abby Beagel Editor Studying abroad is often described as a transformative experience, a journey that broadens one’s academic horizons while also providing an opportunity for personal growth and cultural immersion. My own semester in Rome, Italy, living in the neighborhood of Trastevere while attending John Cabot University was nothing short of extraordinary.

From the moment I stepped foot in Trastevere, I was captivated by its charm.

Cobblestone streets lined with ivy-covered buildings, vibrant piazzas filled with lively chatter and the aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through the air.

Trastevere felt like a place straight out of a postcard.

Yet, the path to get there was filled with moments of doubt and fear. From the uncertainty of not knowing a single soul in the city, to grappling with language barriers and the decision to opt out of dorm living for Airbnbs instead, every step was a testament to my courage into the unknown. The realization of the mag-

nitude of this adventure truly sank in as I said my goodbyes to my family at the airport with the weight of anticipation heavy on my shoulders (and quite literally in my arms). But amidst the nerves, there was an underlying sense of excitement, a determination to embrace the unknown and seize every opportunity that awaited me in this foreign place.

Living in Trastevere allowed me to truly immerse myself in the Roman way of life. I adapted to the leisurely pace of Italian living, where a simple stroll through the neighborhood may turn into a culinary adventure. I discovered quaint trattorias and osterias serving authentic Italian cuisine. However, my experience was uniquely shaped by having Celiac disease, which initially posed a challenge in navigating Italy’s carb-centric culinary scene.

Surprisingly, Italy has one of the highest rates of Celiac disease per capita, which made finding gluten-free options easier than I anticipated. Despite my dietary restrictions, I found an abundance of options that catered to my needs without compromising on taste or authenticity.

One of the most fulfilling aspects of

my time abroad was the chance to explore and travel. I had the opportunity to visit a variety of cities and regions, each offering its own unique charm. From the gardens of Villa d’Este in Tivoli to the dramatic cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, every stop was filled with new experiences and discoveries. In Florence, I immersed myself in Renaissance art and architecture, while the Dolomites provided breathtaking views and opportunities for outdoor adventure.

Naples was a delight with its vibrant street life and delicious pizza, and a visit to Pompeii offered a glimpse into the ancient past. In addition to these destinations, I also had the chance to explore Pisa, with its famous leaning tower (I can confirm it is in fact still leaning), the picturesque Tuscan countryside, the romantic atmosphere of Verona, and the grandeur of Vatican City. Each place left its mark on me, contributing to a semester filled with unforgettable memories and experiences.

But beyond its historical landmarks, Rome’s vibrant atmosphere and eclectic energy never failed to enchant me.

Whether it was getting lost in the bustling markets of Campo de’ Fiori or having

aperitivo along the Tiber River, every day brought new adventures and discoveries.

The most rewarding aspect of my time abroad was the profound sense of independence and self-confidence that blossomed within me. Stepping out of my comfort zone and navigating life in a foreign country challenged me in ways I never imagined. With each hurdle I overcame, I grew stronger and more assured in my abilities.

Yet, what truly made my experience unforgettable were the people I met along the way. Surprisingly, my closest bonds weren’t found at my university but rather with travelers, interns and au pairs from Australia, Switzerland, Sweden, India and beyond. Together, we shared the joys and challenges of exploring a new culture while creating memories that will last a lifetime. These friendships reminded me of the beauty of human connection across continents, and I’m glad to have stayed in touch with the ones who meant the most.

As my semester in Rome drew to a close, I found myself filled with a

See Study Abroad on page 11

FEATURES

Page 7 May 3, 2024

The unintended consequences of grade inflation Damon Grosvenor Editor Grade inflation is affecting major higher education institutions across the U.S. Has Park University been spared?

Grade inflation is a disproportional or non-linked rise in an institution’s grade point average to the actual level of mastery of content that students at the institution obtain.

According to Amelia Nierenberg, in an article from Dec. 2023 in The New York Times, “Nearly 80 percent of all grades given to undergraduates at Yale last year were A’s or A minuses.” Yale economics professor, Ray C. Fair, reported that G.P.A. was 3.7 in 2022, compared to a 3.6 in 2014 and 3.42 in 1999. Part of the rise came from a pandemic spike, but the spike has not been transitory, instead it has stuck around.

According to Park University’s Office of Institutional Research and Assessment, the school does not track G.P.A. for public release. This means that there is no way to statistically determine if Park is suffering grade inflation.

Timothy Westcott, Ph.D., chair of the Department of Culture and Society, Marine Corps veteran, has over 25 years of

experience teaching at Park University.

“An A is not worth the same today as it was in the past,” said Westcott. “If we went back to 1990 or 2000, students would be lining the President’s or Provost’s office complaining about the difficulties of what the professors are requiring.”

Westcott believed that grade inflation was inevitable. “The need for student retention in higher education, including Park University, has become a concern of foremost importance alongside economics, financial assistance and grade inflation,” he said. The problem originated in reaction at higher education institutions to the draft for the Vietnam War, he said. The faculty would bump up grades for young men so that they would have the G.P.A. to not be drafted. But the saving act did not end with Vietnam. It remained and has had a cascading impact on grades.

Lara Cohn, Ph.D., associate professor of communication, echoed Westcott’s perspective. Cohn has been at Park for nearly two decades. Cohn believed that grade inflation was occurring at Park. “I really, truly believe that grade inflation is happening everywhere,” she said. It is not only occurring at the college level, she said, but in high schools. It was exacerbat-

ed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“A lot of the colleges are just giving up,” Cohn said. She mentioned the multitude of schools and institutions dropping test requirements. Park has always tried to be more assessable, said Cohn, “We will meet you where you are and move you up.” But that philosophy has had some unintended consequences. When the Parkville campus removed the G.P.A. requirement for admissions, at the behest of student groups at the time of the housing crash in 2008, there was supposed to be an increase in tutoring and remedial courses.

But that hasn’t happened, she said.

On the other side of the coin is Suzanne Tiemann, Ph.D., chair of Undergraduate Education. She has worked in higher education for five-and-a-half years at Park but has spent a long time in primary and secondary education as both an administrator and teacher. “I don’t buy it,” she said regarding grade inflation. If grades are rising, she said, then it is only a reflection of the continuing improvement of teachers in the field of teaching.

When asked about falling literacy rates and declining math aptitude and how that squares with rising high school grades, Tiemann did not know. “Is it the content?

Are we using different standards?” Per-

haps, she said, we are now putting value on “critically analyzing something and getting a reasonable answer rather than the answer,” she said. “Let’s face it, in my checkbook I’m looking for a reasonable answer, not the answer.”

Bridging the gap between Westcott, Cohn and Tiemann is Abhijit Mazumdar, Ph.D., assistant professor of journalism.

Mazumdar has been at Park for six years.

“Grade inflation has occurred nationally, but has made no marked change here at Park,” said Mazumdar.

Park has many problems that Mazumdar has observed. There is no attendance policy, so students often skip class, and their grades suffer because of it, he said.

The perspective of the many students who are only looking to get the degree and not focused on the learning required to get the degree means they only aspire to a C, he said. This, in conjunction with open admissions at Park, will have an adverse effect on the student body population.

Overall, Park is in a weird spot regarding grade inflation. Few people deny that it exists across the nation. But a dichotomy exists at Park. The tenured faculty were far more willing to grapple with the issue than the non-tenured professors.

Opinion: Milo Farm serves as tranquil, nearby destination Abby Beagel Editor Nestled just 45 minutes east of Park University lies Milo Farm, a hidden gem of tranquility and spiritual rejuvenation.

This 50-acre expanse of sacred land, located in Buckner, Mo., boasts a rich history dating back to the days of the Osage Natives and the Mormon settlers. Today, under the stewardship of Loni Louise, Milo Farm stands as a beacon of healing energy and natural beauty, inviting visitors to experience its mystical allure.

But Milo Farm is not just a destination; it’s a community dedicated to sus-

tainability, art, agriculture, and spiritual growth. In 2022, Milo Farm became a non-profit organization, aiming to expand its educational outreach and deepen its connection to the land and its visitors.

Whether through a stay, monthly events, membership opportunities, or volunteer programs, Milo Farm invites all who are drawn to its embrace to become part of its ever-growing family.

My most recent visit to Milo Farm for Earth Day weekend left me enchanted and refreshed. Staying in the brand-new cabin known as the “Hobbit Hut,” surrounded by friends and fellow travelers, I experienced firsthand the essence of this

space. As we joined in planting fruit trees and foliage across the property, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of connection to the land and its purpose.

For those seeking a touch of luxury, the lower level of the lodge offers comfortable accommodation, with booking available through Airbnb. Alternatively, you can choose a more naturalistic experience by staying on one of the campsites, or glamp in the Hippie Trailer, the charming Bunkhouse, or the Hobbit Hut, which can be booked through Hipcamp.

Milo Farm is more than just a campground or an organic farm; Loni aims for this land to be a sanctuary for the soul.

From meditation refuges and guided trail tours to encounters with roaming friendly goats and donkeys, the possibilities are endless. Unleash your artistic side in the on-site art studio or find serenity by serene ponds and within the Zen Garden.

For a celestial experience, gaze upon the stars from the Milo Observatory or find peace beneath the Tibetan Flag Tree. Explore the region’s rich history with visits to scattered historic sites. Take part in nature walks led by knowledgeable hosts and immersive meditative experiences. Navigate the property with paddle

See Farm on page 11

SPORTS

Page 8 May 3, 2024

NAIA bans transgender athletes from women’s sports Mason Danner Editor Since 2021, there have been a few cases of transgender athletes playing women’s sports. That will no longer be allowed in NAIA sports.

On Monday, April 8, the NAIA Council of Presidents met and approved a policy to ban transgender athletes from participating in women’s sports, in a unanimous 20-0 vote. This policy will apply to regular season and postseason play. At least 24 states have put laws in place that have the same effect, with the legislation pending in many other states.

In April of 2022, the NAIA put together the NAIA Transgender Task Force to investigate whether the current policy needed updating. The task force concluded and passed a new policy, which states that athletes who were assigned male at birth or who were assigned female but have started taking masculine hormones will not be able to participate in women’s sports. The only athletes that will be able to compete in women’s sports were those assigned female at birth.

In an interview with CBS Sports, NAIA president Jim Carr said, “For us, we believed our first responsibility was to create fairness and competition in the NAIA...

We also think it aligns with the reasons Title IX was created. You’re allowed to have separate but equal opportunities for women to compete.”

Shiwali Patel, a senior counsel for the National Women’s Law Center is infuriated with the decision and says that the policy is blatant discrimination and limits the potential of all athletes. “It’s important to recognize that these discriminatory policies don’t enhance fairness in competition,” Patel said. “Instead, they send a message of exclusion and reinforce dangerous stereotypes that harm all women.”

The policy currently in place in the NAIA allows transgender athletes to participate in regular-season contests but not in the postseason. Any athlete can practice and train with any team but can’t compete in real events when the new policy is put into place.

In 2022 the NCAA announced it would allow the governing bodies for each sport to determine their policies on transgender athletes. This came to life when Lia Thomas of the University of Pennsylvania became the first transgender athlete to win a Division I National Championship. Thomas was not the first case, as in the 2020 Olympics, Laurel Hubbard was the first transgender athlete to compete in a women’s competition. However, Hubbard did not complete any lifts and did not receive any medals in weightlifting.

There have been more than a dozen athletes who have sued the NCAA for taking steps to adopt this same policy. It is expected that lawsuits will be filed against the NAIA arguing that this violates Title IX, a hot topic in recent years.

The new policy is expected to take effect on August 1 for the 2024-25 academic year.

Men and women’s volleyball garners many awards Mason Danner Editor The Park University men’s volleyball and women’s beach volleyball teams received many postseason awards.

The men’s volleyball team finished the 2024 season with a record of 22-7 and just missed the NAIA National Tournament after losing in the Heart of America Conference Semifinals to William Penn University 3-2.

Leading the Pirates on the court was sophomore setter, Eduardo Sabi. Sabi, a native of Florianpólis, Santa Catarina, Brazil, won his Heart Setter of the Year award while also being named First Team-All Conference. He was named Setter of the Week three times throughout the season. Sabi recorded 746 assists (10.08 per set) and 128 digs (1.73 digs per set).

Along with Sabi, the Pirates had three other all-conference members. Joao Friedrich, outside hitter, was named First Team All-Conference for the second time. Fellow outside hitter, Leonardo Maldonado, was named Second Team All-Conference in his freshman season. The final all-conference member was Nicolas Tenius, an opposite hitter who was named Honorable Mention All-Conference.

The Beach Volleyball team swept the Pair and Coach of the Year honors in the Central States Conference. The No. 3 ranked Pirates have a 12-6 record while playing a very tough schedule including NCAA Division I opponents University of Nebraska and Missouri State University. The Pirates qualified for the NAIA Beach Volleyball National Invitational in Greeneville, Tenn., which began on April 25.

The Pirates are led by Coach of the Year, Mike Talamantes, and Pair of the Year, Jullia Alvarez and Szonja Stollar. Joining Alvarez and Stollar on the First Team All-Conference list were pairs Grecia Ung and Arianna Marino, and Izabella Ceratti and Carla

Pons Sales. Park’s other two pairs made the All-Conference teams with Mafalda Bras and Luna Martins being named to the Second Team All-Conference, and Amra Kovac and Irene Verdino being named Honorable Mention All-Conference.

PHOTO COURTESY/Park Athletics A graphic made by Park Athletics shows the 2024 Heart All-Conference results. From left to right the players shown are: Eduardo Sabi, Joao Friedrich, Leonardo Maldonado, and Nicolas Tenius. Sabi was awarded Heart Setter of the Year.

SPORTS

Page 9 May 3, 2024

Caitlin Clark ridiculed while growing WBB Mason Danner Editor Caitlin Clark put women’s basketball on the map more than it ever has been.

Her electric play has captivated the attention of people all around the world. Despite this, there has come a lot of backlash from Clark’s peers and WNBA stars.

In her final season at Iowa, Clark set numerous records such as NCAA AllTime Points, single-season three-pointers, and most points in a single season by a woman, amongst many others. Clark was twice a winner of the Naismith and AP Player of the Year award along with the unanimous Big-Ten Player of the Year.

She led the Hawkeyes to back-to-back national championship losses in her final two seasons.

Clark’s popularity led to Iowa’s Final Four matchup against UConn averaging 14.2 million viewers, becoming the most viewed women’s basketball game ever and the largest ESPN broadcasted basketball game ever. This was followed up by the

National Championship game of Iowa vs South Carolina, which averaged 19 million viewers according to ESPN. The previous most viewed women’s game featured LSU and Clark’s Hawkeyes, which received an average of 12.3 million viewers. She has received shoutouts from NBA greats such as Lebron James for what she has done for the game.

She has done nothing but be an outstanding role model and ambassador for women’s basketball throughout her career. People say they want to grow the women’s game, so why is the person single-handedly putting the game on a world stage being ridiculed?

ESPN gave UConn alumni and WNBA greats Diana Taurasi and Sue Bird their own show to call the Final Four games of the women’s tournament. Taurasi and Bird called the Iowa/UConn game, and they called the game very biased and were negative towards Caitlin Clark for no good reason.

On the show, Taurasi said, “Reality is coming. There’s [sic] levels to this thing.

And that’s just life, we all went through it… You look superhuman playing against 18-year-olds, but you’re going to come with some grown women that have been playing professional basketball for a long time.”

Breanna Stewart, former UConn player and WNBA star called out Clark and said that she must win a championship to become one of the greats. She said that no one will remember the records broken but only that Clark never won a title. Stewart won four titles in college and thinks that means way more than breaking records.

Winning four titles is an outstanding feat, but dismissing Clark for setting numerous records is not called for. The number of things that Clark did for the game — from increasing viewership, to setting records, and just putting the game on the map — should not go unnoticed and unappreciated.

Lynette Woodard played at Kansas University from 1977-81 and scored more points than Clark, but at the time women’s athletics were not a part of the

NCAA so her record didn’t count. Clark invited Woodard to her senior day and at the game, she broke the all-time scoring record.

Woodard turned around and gave a speech saying Clark does not own the record because the games were played differently. “I don’t think my record has been broken because you can’t duplicate what you’re not duplicating…. You can help me spread the word.” Woodard’s comment is very disrespectful considering Clark went out of her way to invite Woodard and welcome her just for her to turn around and disrespect her and her accomplishments.

Clark earned the NCAA scoring record, and Woodard never played in the NCAA. Caitlin Clark was a legendary college basketball player and helped grow the game like no other person has ever done.

WNBA ticket prices have already skyrocketed when teams are scheduled to play the Indiana Fever, who chose Clark as a first overall pick in the WNBA draft on April 15.

Caitlin Clark set to bring new eyes to WNBA Skyler Jensen Editor-In-Chief Caitlin Clark, star for Iowa women’s basketball, was the No. 1 pick in the WNBA draft.

The Indiana Fever wasn’t shy about their intentions to bring Clark to their team. She had a well-decorated college career which includes being the all-time leader in scoring, made three-pointers, and a two-time national player of the year.

Michael Voepel for ESPN said that while the team has been struggling to find wins the past several seasons, now they have the opportunity to pick up one of the best in the history of college basketball. He added that it’s not just that she is the best player in the draft, she’s also the best at the position — point guard — that will most help the Fever.

With her talent, she has also brought millions of eyes to women’s college basketball. She also helped draw in a

bigger audience for the women’s championship than the men’s title game for the first time ever. There were 18.9 million viewers that watched South Carolina beat Iowa 87-75. The men’s final between UConn and Purdue averaged 14.82 million.

Dawn Staley, head coach for South Carolina, said after the championship game that she recognizes that Clark is one of the best of all time to play the game.

“I want to personally thank Caitlin Clark for lifting up our sport, she carried a heavy load for our sport and it just isn’t going to stop here, on a collegiate tour, but when she is the No. 1 pick in the WNBA Draft, she’s going to lift that league as well,” Staley said.

The audience for the national title game was up 90 percent over last year when Clark and Iowa fell to LSU. That also was the first time since 1995 that the championship was on network television.

During the Final Four, Clark said the audience growth was benefiting all of women’s sports, not just basketball.

“I think you see it across the board, whether it’s softball, whether it’s gymnastics, volleyball. People want to watch. It’s just when they’re given the opportunity, the research and the facts show that people love it,” she said.

Meghan McKeown, a play-by-play announcer and analyst for the Big Ten Network, has been following Clark’s game since the first time Clark played on TV. She said that it started out with a small group of women’s basketball fans who knew who she was. Now, McKeown said, “… People are lining up at 5 a.m. to get a seat, just get a glance at her and she’s making people cry in the stands, people are freaking crying! And I’m like these are the reactions I personally have when I go to a Taylor Swift concert, it’s like the most sought-after ticket in town, and she’s the biggest star in sports right now.”

This past season for Iowa, Clark averaged 31.6 points, 7.4 rebounds and 8.9 assists per game. She finishes her collegiate career with 3,951 points, 990 rebounds, 1,144 assists, 210 steals and 548 made three-pointers.

SPORTS

Page 10 May 3, 2024

Student-athletes honored at Pirates Choice Awards Halle Magee Editor On Thursday, April 18, a celebration of excellence among Park University student-athletes served as a way to commemorate and acknowledge all the hard work put in throughout the year. This celebration of excellence is called the Pirates Choice Awards.

The recipients of these awards were voted on by the Park University community, and the ballot was also open to the public as well.

To kick off the awards ceremony, the Athletic Department decided to do something different. For the first time in the awards’ history, the highlighted athletes who were injured their previous year and had a comeback to their respective sport. The athletes recognized were Peyton Ayers, Stevie Oitker, Aiden Joseph, and Guillermo Cervantes. This section of the ceremony had no winner but served to recognize and celebrate these athletes.

Top player of the year, a popular award within the athletics community, went to Wayde Roman (men’s soccer). Female and male individual performances went to Micaela Suhl (women’s golf) and AJ Watson (men’s basketball).

The next award went to Park athletes who were considered newcomers this year, whether that be a freshman or a transfer student. Female and male newcomers of the year went to Emma Perry (women’s basketball) and Lukas Mehl (men’s cross country and track & field).

Candidates for Female Athlete of the Year included Arianna Marino, Halle Magee, Patrycia Kozak, and Shelby Birmingham. The winner of this award was given to Halle Magee

(softball).

Candidates for the Male Athlete of the Year included Wayde Roman, Joao Friedrich, Alexander Caines, Zachery Fritz, and AJ Watson. The winner of male athlete of the year was given to Joao Friedrich (men’s volleyball).

Women’s volleyball won the top team performance award.

Sportsmanship is a necessity in sports, so the athletic department includes awards for those who show great character. Seth Snowden from Esports was the individual recipient.

The team Champions of Character award went to Park men’s soccer.

Numerous individuals earned recognition for awards tailored to Park’s ethics and standards.

The Donald J. Breckon Award is given to someone who gives support and is involved within the department, administration, coaches, players, or staff. This person must also demonstrate a passion for student-athletes. Kevin Vicker, Senior Director of International Education, exemplifies all those qualities.

The Ed Nelson is another award that is given as a thanks from the student-athletes for someone who shows support and commitment to them.

Nick Rich from Campus Security was the recipient.

The Hal Henderson Award is all about leadership both on and off the field. Alex Rodriquez, baseball, was the recipient.

Debora Bernardi, women’s volleyball, won the Wendy Romero Award, which goes to someone who models the core values of the university, contributes significantly to their teams, and performs well within the classroom.

The last award was a sweet moment

between a coach and player. Lindsey Derry, Park University softball coach, presented the Old Kate Award to a player on her team, Kal Day, a senior on the softball team who had an outstanding work ethic on and off the field, within the weight room, and around campus.

The Pirates Choice Awards are meant to highlight athletes who had Above right, Wayde Roman was named top player of the year. Below, top from left to right: AJ Watson and Micaela Suhl were honored for outstanding individual performances. Below bottom from left to right, Halle Magee was named female athlete of the year and Joao Friedrich was named male athlete of the year.

an exceptional year or possibly years.

However, all Park athletes should be celebrating, knowing that their teammates could not have been uplifted or in this position without their help and constant support.

PHOTOS COURTESY/Park Athletics

ENTERTAINMENT

Page 11 May 3, 2024

Flyleaf’s self-titled album is a spiritual lifeline Bryce Butler Editor “There is something about music that opens up your soul to understand, to meditate on something, to taste the spiritual significance of the world around you,” wrote Flyleaf lead singer Lacey Sturm, in her book, “The Reason: How I Discovered a Life Worth Living.”

Music is an invitation to meditate on whatever message the artist is sharing.

We’ve all accepted this invitation at one point or another. At its biblical origin, music was used to meditate upon who God is and what he’s done.

A simple command is given in Ephesians, “Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

The book of Psalms is filled with poetic lyrics that describe God the Father, and it is where we get most of our modern contemporary worship songs.

It makes me grateful that groups of people out there cared enough to form bands and incorporate biblical messages into the rock genre that I’ve grown to love over the years. Flyleaf ’s 2006 self-titled album accomplished this at a time when rock was still dominating the music mainstream.

Reaching the Heart of the Audience A deeper look into the life story of Lacey Sturm will help you understand why Flyleaf found great resonance in the alternative rock scene.

Regardless of music preference, lis-

Study Abroad Continued from page 6 profound sense of gratitude for the memories made, the knowledge gained and the relationships built. My time in Rome had not only expanded my worldview but had also left a lasting mark on my heart.

In retrospect, studying abroad in

teners can appreciate when a song/album channels exactly what they’re feeling.

After all, isn’t relatability part of why we listen to music? Sure, a simpler reason is because we enjoy music that sounds good. However, a relatable song can reach a person’s heart in a way that a conversation might fall short.

Flyleaf ’s relatability is one of the reasons they were able to break into the rock mainstream as Christians. They touched on the feelings of despair and hopelessness that almost drove Sturm to take her own life.

There have been countless artists who sought to channel the experiences of their audience. For example, the rap supergroup N.W.A. was birthed out of a violence-stricken southern California.

The group rapped with the aggression of wanting to break out of their harsh environment.

But where some of these artists miss the mark is that they don’t point to the solution to those very real problems.

Whether it’s done intentionally or not, they often end up glorifying the problem rather than highlighting the solution of Jesus Christ.

On the other hand, some non-believers might argue that the problems of the world are often ignored or looked down upon by Christians. I think this is partly where the notion of Christians being judgmental comes from.

“The reason a lot of people fall away from their childhood faith is that they don’t see the darkness dealt with,” Sturm said in an interview with Highwire MagRome was more than just an academic pursuit. It was a journey of self-discovery, a tapestry of experiences woven together by the threads of adventure, curiosity, and cultural immersion. As I bid arrivederci to the Eternal City, I knew that its spirit would forever remain etched in my soul, guiding me on future adventures and inspiring me to embrace the world with an open heart.

azine.

What I appreciate about Sturm is that she openly shares the darker parts of her story. She’s spoken in interviews about how she once hated Christians as an outspoken atheist. However, it was the very Christians she thought could never understand her who not only empathized with her pain but explained to her that Christ died and rose again to free us from our brokenness.

Flyleaf addresses both sides of this issue by identifying feelings associated with suffering, as well as meditating on the saving work of Christ. Whether their listeners realize it or not, they are accepting the invitation to meditate on lyrics inspired by the word of God. Power of the Musician Their message of rebirth, new life, and freedom from addiction are not just personal opinions. It says in Proverbs chapter 18, “The tongue has the power of life and death.” In other words, our voices can be used for either building up or tearing down other people.

With just that Proverbs verse in mind, musicians hold an unimaginable amount of power. When Sturm sings, she speaks life over everyone who chooses to listen.

If spoken words alone have the power of life and death, how much more power do lyrics sung over screaming guitars and thunderous drums have?

Sturm’s singing voice gives each lyric a sense of importance. The melody of

Sameer Bhattacharya’s lead guitar walks right alongside her voice through the verses on “All Around Me” and “Red Sam.” Perhaps I spent the most time listening to the vocals on “Sorrow.” At the end of the first verse, I love how Bhattacharya matches the accents of the drums. When drummer James Culpepper hits the crash symbol on beats one and four of each measure, it emphasizes Sturm’s syllables leading into the chorus.

The entire record could legitimately be thrown into a greatest hits album for the band. It impresses me when a band is able to pack so much substance into a debut release.

This record is another reminder of how God can use musicians to save lives. I think Flyleaf understood that before most people decide to open up a Bible, they will listen to a good song. Their lyrics don’t come off as preachy, but they’re certainly getting a biblical message across.

One relatable song can be the difference between someone taking their own life or waking up another day. One song can convince someone that there’s more to life than the evil things we’ve seen and done. One song can help point someone to the truth: that Christ took on our punishment so that we don’t have to carry the pain and weight of what we’ve done, or what others have to done to us. If we’ll accept Him into our hearts, He’ll begin to heal us from the inside out.

Farm

ers and wanderers for generations.

For those seeking a retreat into nature without venturing far from home, Milo Farm offers the perfect escape. Located a short drive from Parkville, Mo., this sanctuary of serenity beckons with its events, camping and glamping opportunities, and volunteer programs. Whether you’re in search of quiet contemplation or community connection, Milo Farm welcomes you with open arms and an open heart.

To learn more about Milo Farm and upcoming events, visit milofarm.com.

Continued from page 7 boating or bikes and indulge in artistic expression through workshops and live music sessions. Join drum circles or seek guidance through intuitive tarot/oracle readings. At Milo Farm, every moment is an opportunity for discovery and enrichment. But perhaps the most enchanting aspect of Milo Farm is its palpable positive energy, a quality that has drawn seek-

ENTERTAINMENT

Page 12 May 3, 2024

Opinion: Disney 100 exhibition sure to excite Danny Burger Reporter

It has taken over 100 years, but Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse are returning to Kansas City this May. (Kind of.)

Opening in Kansas City on May 24 at Union Station, The Disney 100 exhibition is a once-in-a-lifetime traveling event that celebrates the magic of Disney, which is capturing the hearts of audiences of all ages around the globe. It is a celebration of the enchanting world of Disney, offering a nostalgic journey through the company’s illustrious history.

The Walt Disney Archives have opened up the vaults and have brought 250 artifacts, props, and costumes from some of your favorite Disney movies and shows.

Some of these artifacts being shown have never been seen by the public before, adding an air of excitement and exclusivity to the exhibition. Some of these artifacts

could be considered the “Crown Jewels” of the Disney company.

To say I am excited for this is probably the understatement of the year.

I recently had a chance to speak with Amaris Ma, the Business Operations Manager of the Walt Disney Archives and asked a few questions about what students of Park University could expect from the Disney 100 Exhibition.

Q: What could students, who likely grew up watching Disney Movies, expect from this exhibit?

A: Disney100: The Exhibition is a celebration of the history and legacy of a company that has touched all of our lives in some way. This is your chance to see original animation art, props, costumes, even attraction vehicles from Disney Parks all in one place, many of which have never been seen by the public before.

Q: Are there any items/artifacts you’d like to highlight in particular?

A: This is a tough question because there are so many special pieces in this exhibition! As I mentioned earlier, this exhibition really delivers on Disney nostalgia, so for me the Spell Book from Hocus Pocus (1993) is one of those iconic pieces from my childhood that I hold very dear. I’m also a huge fan of theme parks, so Walt Disney’s Employee Badge #1 and Engineer Mickey from the opening day of Disneyland in the Parks Gallery are real treasures for any Disney Parks enthusiast.

I also think Emma Stone’s red dress from Cruella (2021) is a real showstopper!

The Disney 100 Exhibition would be something for students from Park University and beyond to embark on a mesmerizing journey through Disney’s rich history. This immersive experience is not just about reliving childhood memories; it’s a testament to the enduring legacy of creativity, innovation, and storytelling that defines Disney.

In its truest essence, the Disney 100 Exhibition is more than just an exhibition — it’s a journey of inspiration, discovery, and celebration. It’s a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and imagination. Moreover, as Park University is a community that values cultural enrichment and creative exploration, attending Disney 100 could help inspire students to dream big and pursue their passions with the same pioneering spirit that drove Walt Disney himself.

So, I extend a warm invitation to all students to join me at Union Station for the Disney 100 Exhibition and embark on a magical odyssey that transcends time, transports you to fantastical worlds, and leaves you with a renewed sense of wonder and possibility. Together, let’s celebrate the magic of Disney and the limitless potential of our own dreams.

Tickets are on sale now at Union Station or on their website.

Opinion: Binge-Watching can be good for mental health Audrey Hentges Editor

In today’s world, everyone is consuming the constant media feed that surrounds us on all our screens. Screens like phones, laptops, and TVs are continuing to evolve, making it easier for us to access media whenever and wherever we want. Some choose to watch sports, others watch reality television. Others still spend their time re-watching and binging old shows.

This trend has always been around, though it was popularized once again during COVID-19 back in 2020. Shows like “New Girl,” “Friends, and “Grey’s Anatomy,” among others, had a resurgence of viewers from stay-at-home orders. However, this didn’t stop when TV went back into production after the pandemic; people are still rewatching and binging old shows they have already seen before. Researchers say there is nothing wrong with this and the effects it has on a person and their mental health can be great.

Many scientists have researched the root of this binging “problem.” What they have come to agree on is that people with mental health issues are more prone to this behavior.

According to reports from Psychology Today and Time Magazine, rewatching shows can help with panic attacks, loneliness, and regaining a sense of control. Time spent revisiting a television show where you know the outcomes helps with anxiousness and generally makes people feel better, according to these reports. While some argue that this behavior isn’t healthy, it’s important to remember that rewatching TV shows is not a fix; it’s a temporary hold over. When you are done rewatching your favorite show, remember to take care of yourself in other ways.

If you have a comfort show, rest easy knowing it’s your safe space; just make sure you are also taking time to live in the moment.

IMAGE COURTESY/Just Girl Project