Homecoming weekend recognizes Park alumni
Open house shows Park history
Mati Smith Assistant Editor-in-Chief
The Frances Fishburn Archives and Special Collections will hold an open house from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2024, in the Academic Underground.
The exhibit will feature Fishburn Archives of 200 Bibles, including the 1545 Greek New Testament, 1,888 artifacts donated by missionary alumni, artifacts about Chestnut I and Chestnut II resident halls, and the story of Dr. Eleanor Chestnut, who was an 1888 graduate from Park University.
The Frances Fishburn and Special Collections open house will provide students with the opportunity to learn more about the history of Park University. Visit The Archives Magazine to find out more about Park University’s past.
Park University’s Alumni Association and Park Athletics honored esteemed alumni during the 2024 Homecoming celebration on Friday, Sept. 27. Above left, former men’s volleball player Rob Cordero, left, and former soccer player Robert Palmer, right, were added to Park’s Wall of Honor. Above, from left to right, are Torchlighter Award winner Tom Peterman, Ph.D.; Alumni Council President Mary Celeste; Park Promising Young Professional Award winner Master Sgt. Corey Holt; Marlowe Sherwood Memorial Service Award winner Jack Satter; Cordero and Palmer; Park Director of Athletics Kristin Gillette; Provost Michelle Myers, Ed.D.; and President Shane Smeed.
October 4, 2024
Presidential Ratings Pt2: The Nearly Greats
Damon Grosvenor Editor
What does it take to be a great president?
Last month I briefly examined three men who I consider the Great Presidents. But in order for that term to mean anything, it means that not everyone can be in the category. Thus, we have the Nearly Greats. Men who were almost Great. This doesn’t mean they were bad, in fact it means the opposite. They were so good they almost made it to the top, but just missed out on a couple of counts.
Let me try and define the completely subjective category of Nearly Great. Much like the Greats and the Lemons, it comes down to either intimate knowledge of passing vibes. I admit, I have read far more on Herbert Hoover, who I have placed as an Above Average President, than I have on Teddy Roosevelt. But the vibes I get from Roosevelt and the adjacent readings on him make me think he is Great. Nearly Great presidents were men who achieved either great success with a few complications or men who strove to achieve greatness but couldn’t hold onto that slippery object of destiny.
Given the quantity of men, 45, that I have to rate, I have decided to limit myself to discussions of only three per category. I shall list all of them in order of Most Nearly Great to Least Nearly Great: Dwight D. Eisenhower, Ulysses S. Grant, James K. Polk, Harry S Truman, George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, William McKinley, and Franklin D. Roosevelt. The three I will discuss each uniquely define this subjective category.
Ulysses S. Grant: U.S. Grant, born Hiram Ulysses Grant, was the first President elected after the Civil War and the expectations upon him to put the newly re-knitted nation back on a track of prosperity and justice was more than anyone could have possibly achieved. And yet, Grant did far more than either his adversaries, both Republican and Democratic, and historians have credited.
Domestically, Grant’s pressure on reconstruction was admirable, although doomed to fail. He prosecuted and eliminated the Ku Klux Klan in the South but was unable to ensure the full equal voting rights of the 15th Amendment. He ended the treaty system with Native Americans and installed a new Peace Policy and Quaker Policy that had early success but was undercut by the very grafting
and racism the new systems were trying to prevent. He returned the US to the gold standard to allow for more stable financial footing on the world stage, but was hit by the trainwreck of the Panic of 1873 which created the worst economic depression to that point in American History. Every step forward was difficult and often accompanied by a step or two backwards.
Internationally, Grant and his Secretary of State Hamilton Fish were boons for the future. While failing to annex Santo Domingo (today The Dominican Republic) to create a Black State as an escape route inside the Union for Freedmen, Grant succeeded in preventing war with Cuba and Canada. The methods of diplomacy were far more reminiscent of post-WWII, multilateral initiatives than the prior unilateral diplomatic strategies of simply going to war. Grant’s administration secured the allyship with England that won both World Wars and endures today.
Grant’s actual achievements and unrealized aspirations are why I rank him Nearly Great. He was held back by the American people and those he trusted.
James K. Polk: Polk, the Dark Horse, is an exceptional example of machiavellian politics that resulted in massive territorial gain and successful military action. I have rated him Nearly Great for a couple of reasons. First, he executed the second most successful military campaign in American History, only to be outdone by George H.W. Bush in the First Gulf War. Second, his settlement with England over the Oregon Territory was, in spite of himself, a diplomatic solution to a territorial dispute. However, some of his other successes have had lasting impacts on the American people. Polk annexed Texas, further causing the sectarian crisis beginning to engulf the Union. He also used Texas’ annexation and the dispute over the southern border with Mexico to incite a war that Grant called “one of the most unjust ever waged” by the United States. He also believed that more territory south of the 36 30 parallel would further the expansion of slavery in the United States and shift power to the South away from the North.
Given all this, why would I rank him Nearly Great? Despite his nefarious intentions, the end state of the Mexican-American War was more territory that would ultimately become free after the Civil War and not be scarred with the blight of Slavery. He may have orchestrated
ILLUSTRATION/Damon Grosvenor
war, but he orchestrated a successful war. Military achievement, while out of popularity today, is necessary for a world power to stay safe. And in the first-half of the 19th Century, such a war of conquest was the norm. His reasons and machinations are what hold him back from being Great.
Franklin D. Roosevelt: FDR is one of those presidents whom I begrudgingly admit was better than I otherwise might suggest. No one can doubt his ability to fight two fronts in the most dynamic and destructive war the human race has ever waged. In what was essentially a global race war, FDR managed to create and maintain a precarious alliance that defeated the most atrocious villains the world had ever seen. He may not have survived to see the end, but his work ensured it. For that alone, FDR could be considered a Great President. But that is not all of what he did. Let us not forget the first 9 years of his unprecedented four terms.
FDR is one of those characters in the great American play which we watch and live that divide people. Democrats love him. Republicans hate him. If you listen to New Dealers, FDR managed to fight the moneyed interests and save the American people. If you listen to any conservative, FDR created the leviathan of modern ABC soup bureaucracy and red tape while making the worst depression in modern history only more so. As I prefaced last month, rating presidents requires a lot of bias, and here is where mine shows. FDR’s handling of the Great Depression worsened it. His predecessor, one Herbert Hoover (my personal favorite President), created the structure FDR abused to deepen the depression and install his own power.
In an era of villains, FDR was certainly not one of them. However, compared to a Lincoln or a Washington, FDR never once put the nation above himself.
Thus concludes my evaluation of a select few Nearly Great Presidents. Next month, I will be examining The Above Average Presidents. I will look at Herbert Hoover, Barrack Obama, and Millard Fillmore.
Staff List
Editor-in-chief
Abby Beagel
Assist. Editor-in-Chief
Matalyn Smith
Design Editors
Marcus Castro
Taylor Crims
Damon Grosvenor
Destiny Pearson
Francisco Reyes
Reporters
Lorenzo Leone
Danny Burger
Adviser
Melody Alexander
the
CAMPUS LIFE
Fall festivities in Kansas City: October events to enjoy
Abby Beagel Editor-in-Chief
As the leaves begin to change and the air gets crisp, Kansas City and its surrounding areas offer a variety of fall festivities to help everyone get into the autumn spirit. Whether you’re into spooky thrills, cozy activities, or embracing classic fall traditions, there’s something for everyone this October. Here are some of the top events to check out, including a few close to Park University’s campus.
Fright Night at Park University
On Thursday, Oct. 24 from 6 to 8 p.m., Park University will host its annual Fright Night. This free event is open to the public and perfect for families. Kids are encouraged to come dressed in their favorite Halloween costumes for trick-or-treating through the residence halls. Park University student organizations will sponsor booths featuring face painting, crafts, carnival games and other activities to get everyone in the Halloween spirit.
Weston Applefest
A regional fall staple, Weston Applefest runs Saturday, Oct. 5 through Sunday, Oct. 6. Expect everything from live music to apple butter demonstrations. Vendors will be selling treats like apple dumplings, and Weston’s historic downtown will be decked out for the celebration. Don’t miss the parade at 10 a.m. on Saturday and check out the craft booths and kids’ games throughout the festival.
Kansas City Renaissance Festival
The Kansas City Renaissance Festival, open Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. through Oct. 13, brings medieval times to life in Bonner Springs. The festival includes jousting tournaments, costumed performers, artisan booths, and themed weekends. It’s one of the largest Renaissance festivals in the country, drawing more than 200,000 visitors each year.
Halloween Haunt at Worlds of Fun
For thrill-seekers, Halloween Haunt at Worlds of Fun runs select nights through Oct. 26. The park transforms into a nighttime terror with haunted mazes, scare zones, and creatures lurking around every corner. Some of the park’s most popular rides stay open late. You can always get a “no-boo” necklace if you don’t want to be messed with.
The Beast, The Edge of Hell, and Macabre Cinema Haunted Houses
Kansas City’s downtown area is home to some of the most infamous haunted houses in the country. The Beast, The Edge of Hell, and Macabre Cinema Haunted Houses are must-visits for adrenaline junkies. Open on select nights through early November, these haunted attractions offer multi-story scares, including slides, mazes, and terrifying actors. Located in the West Bottoms, they’re known for their elaborate sets and terrifying experiences. Be prepared to face your fears — these attractions are recommended for those looking for an intense, immersive horror experience.
Zona Rosa Fall Fest
On Saturday, Oct. 12, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Zona Rosa hosts its Fall Fest. This family-friendly event offers pumpkin decorating, food trucks, live music, and even a DJ dance party. There’s something for everyone, including bounce houses for kids and fall-themed cocktails for adults. Don’t miss the pop-up shopping from local makers and artisans at the Strawberry Swing Indie Craft Fair.
Cornucopia at Power & Light
From Friday, Oct. 18 through Sunday, Oct. 20, the Power & Light District will host Cornucopia, a free fall festival featuring carnival rides, live music, a petting zoo, and seasonal food vendors. Activities are available for all ages- highlights include performances on the KC Live stage and a meet-and-greet with Grover from “Sesame Street” on Saturday, Oct. 19 (you’re never too old for a Grover photo-op, right?).
Local pumpkin patches and fruit picking
Pumpkin patches and orchards are a must for any fall bucket list. Fun Farm in Kearney, Alldredge Orchards in Platte City, or Carolyn’s Pumpkin Patch in Liberty are great spots to find the perfect pumpkin. Both offer hayrides, corn mazes, and other family-friendly activities. For apple picking, Cider Hill Family Orchard in Kansas City is a top pick, offering a classic fall afternoon experience.
Cozy night in
Not every fall festivity has to be outdoors — sometimes the best fall days are spent indoors with movies, snacks, and pumpkin painting. Gather some friends or enjoy a solo night in with classic Halloween films like “Hocus Pocus” or “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” paired with hot cider and a blanket. Get creative by painting mini pumpkins or making seasonal crafts to embrace the season in a more low-key way.
Kansas City is packed with activities to help you make the most of the fall season. Whether you’re looking for something spooky or a relaxed afternoon of fruit-picking, there’s something for everyone this October.
PHOTO COURTESY/ Abby Beagel
PHOTO COURTESY/ KC Ren Fest
PHOTO COURTESY/ Cider Hill
PHOTOS COURTESY/ Park University
PHOTO COURTESY/ Fun Farm
ENTERTAINMENT Batman gets star on Hollywood Walk of Fame
Danny Burger Editor
On Thursday, Sept. 26, 2024, the “Caped Crusader” became the first superhero to have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Batman, who first appeared in Detective Comics #27 in 1939, is arguably one of the most beloved and enduring characters in American pop culture. As the character celebrates his 85th anniversary, his impact on films, TV shows, video games and even the broader cultural landscape is undeniable.
Batman captured the imaginations of generations. He became a symbol of justice and determination, cementing his status as a cultural icon. Through Batman’s countless movie reboots, new cartoons, and comic book resets, Batman has been many things: a crime-fighter, a detective, a symbol of vengeance and, most importantly, a symbol of hope.
It is true that his stories often reflect the darker aspects of society—corruption, crime, the fragile nature of justice—but I would argue that he is thereto contrast this. This dark setting of Gotham City, where it seems like the average man
would be crushed under the heels of monsters, brings us to what makes Batman special. He’s human.
Batman stands out against a world filled with characters like Superman and Wonder Woman. His appeal is rooted in his humanity. Unlike other heroes, Batman shows us that one doesn’t need superpowers to be extraordinary.
And that is why Batman deserves a star on the legendary Hollywood Walk of Fame. A star there is a testament to the enduring power of stories. Whether those stories are told on the screen or on the page, whether the heroes are real or imagined, their legacies live on long after the lights go down.
Batman may be the first Superhero to have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, but he is not the first fictional character by a long shot. That honor belonged to no other than Mickey Mouse in 1978, and other characters like Bugs Bunny, Kermit the Frog, and Godzilla have followed suit.
These stars are a celebration of the characters’ impact on entertainment and culture—and of course, the franchises they represent.
Ana Martinez, producer of the Hol-
lywood Walk of Fame said, “Fans from around the world will be thrilled to know that Batman will have his star dedicated next to the stars of television’s Batman, Adam West, and the co-creator of Batman, Bob Kane.”
His star is located at 6764 Hollywood
Blvd. in front of The Hollywood Guinness World Records Museum.
As we celebrate Batman’s 85 years of vigilante justice, it’s worth remembering that heroes, real or fictional, can inspire us all.
Electric Light Orchestra’s final curtain call
Damon Grosvenor Editor
It was quite the show. On Sept. 6, 2024, my fiancée and I saw one of our favorite bands on their final tour. It was Jeff Lynne’s Electric Light Orchestra (ELO). The “Over and Out Tour” was a greatest hits, visual spectacle.
The tour began on Aug. 24, 2024, in Palm Beach, Fla., and will end on Oct. 25 in Los Angeles. The band has been around for 54 years, beginning in Birmingham, England, in 1970.
Created by Jeff Lynne, Roy Wood, and Bev Bevan, the band has achieved a lot of
success and been through the ringer. This incarnation of ELO, called Jeff Lynne’s ELO for legal reasons, has all new members except for Lynne.
“It was one of the best shows I’ve ever seen,” said Ashlyn Weber, ’19.
Weber has been a fan of ELO since childhood. Her father introduced her to the band through songs like “Telephone Line” and “Don’t Bring Me Down.”
I had always been aware of the band’s songs, though not by name, until Weber inundated me with their magical music on long car rides. Songs like “Last Train to London” and “Rockaria!” really resonated with me. Their music strikes a special
balance of unique instrumentation and catchy lyrics.
My typical playlist from the ’70s consists of Black Sabbath and AC/DC, while Weber’s has more friendly bands like The Doors and performers like Glen Campbell. But ELO manages to meld our tastes through their command of melody and lyricism.
The concert itself was well worth the trip to St. Louis and the admission cost.
“There was very little gap between songs,” said Weber. “They would transition into the next song in about a minute.”
This pace was helpful since neither she nor I enjoy incomprehensible one-way
conversations with elderly music artists. At the last concert we attended, Alabama at the State Fair, the lead singer babbled in a way that combined a strong Southern accent with the slurring of a man who had recently suffered a stroke.
Lynne, on the other hand, was much more understandable and seemed to really just want to play his music. That said, it was apparent that it was time for Lynne to retire. At least twice during the concert, Lynne was singing off beat, and I’m not entirely convinced that his guitar was plugged in. It was so bad at one point that
The Guinness World Record Museum’s Michael Empric, left, presents a certificate to DC Comics’ Anne DePies, left, Batman, and Jim Lee, right.
PHOTO COURTESY/DC Comics
ENTERTAINMENT
‘Inside Out 2’: The emotional sequel
Marcus Castro Editor
In the real world, it’s hard to read someone’s mind. As Joy says, “You ever look at someone and wonder, ‘What is going on inside their head?’” Well, you get to see the deep level thinking of Riley Andersen in Disney and Pixar’s latest movie, “Inside Out 2”, the sequel to the 2015 film “Inside Out”, where you can experience Riley’s mindset as she goes through a new chapter in her life.
This coming-of-age animated film is set in San Francisco, where Riley (Kensington Tallman) has developed a good life and is working hard to be one of the best ice hockey players in the little leagues. With that, she is still the same optimistic girl thanks to Joy (Amy Poehler) and the rest of Riley’s emotions running Headquarters: Sadness (Phyllis Smith), Fear (Tony Hale), Disgust (Liza Lapira), and Anger (Lewis Black).
Rewinding to the first “Inside Out”, we see Riley from birth all the way to her 11-year-old self, voiced by Kaitlyn
ELO
Continued from page 4
Dias. Joy ensures that Riley stays happy even though she experiences more of the other emotions during her move from Minnesota to San Francisco. But despite her passion to stay optimistic, Joy struggles to share the spotlight with the other emotions, especially Sadness. In an act of selfishness, Joy attempts to get rid of a sad core memory and instead ends up leaving Headquarters along with Sadness and Riley’s five core memories that shaped her identity. While Joy is away, Fear (played by Bill Hader in this film), Disgust (played by Mindy Kaling), and Anger try to run Headquarters without Joy and Sadness.
In the sequel, Riley is 13 and getting better at ice hockey — so much better that she’s given an opportunity to play for a high school team. With that, her emotions discover that puberty has arrived, introducing new emotions for Riley: Anxiety (Maya Hawke), Envy (Ayo Edebiri), Embarrassment (Paul Walter Hauser), and Ennui (Adèle Exarchopoulos), which describes boredom.
Although Joy welcomes the new emotions, Anxiety attempts to force Riley to leave her old friends, Bree (Sumayyah Nuriddin-Green) and Grace (Grace Lu), so they can impress Valentina (Lilimar
Hernandez), the high school ice hockey team captain.
This movie brings the viewer in on an emotional level. It’s a film perfect for any age. Older viewers can relate to Riley’s experiences of growing up, developing a sense of self, and managing stress, while younger audiences get a whimsical view of how the mind works and how emotions control our thoughts as we age.
With Anxiety taking over Riley’s mind,
the viewer — along with the other emotions — feels unsure about what’s best for her. The buildup of anxiety will leave you wondering about Riley’s well-being and whether she believes she is a good person. No matter what emotions arise while watching, you’ll feel connected to Riley and her emotions, new and old, as she grows up, builds a sense of self, and strives to improve at ice hockey.
another member had to step in to sing for Lynne, who couldn’t keep up with the tempo of the song. That said, “Even with Jeff Lynne being aged and visibly exhausted, they captured the essence of the original recordings,” said Weber. All in all, the concert was amazing. Knowing a playlist so well you can sing every song with the crowd is an experience like no other. If you haven’t heard of ELO, I recommend listening to “Evil Woman,” “Mr. Blue Sky,” and “Strange Magic.”
Right, Jeff Lynne’s ELO performing on The Over and Out Tour at Enterprise Center in St. Louis, Mo.
PHOTO COURTESY/ Disney Pixar
NEWS Return to Normalcy: The Harris-Trump Debate
Damon Grosvenor Editor
On Sept. 10, 2024, Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump met for the first time on the debate stage at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, Penn. Republicans were hoping beyond hope for another Biden-Trump fiasco, and Democrats were praying for Harris to come out of the debate unscathed. The Democrats and the mainstream media couldn’t be happier with the outcome.
The debate lacked substance and was heavy on rhetoric. Harris, acting as a matador, was more than able to wave a red cape and enrage Trump to talk about everything from crowd size to the Central Park Five (a story so old it seems to counter Harris’ claim to want to “turn the page”). There was talk in Republican circles about the need for Trump to be energetic during the debate, but he showed up with too much. It was obvious that Harris left the debate in much higher standing than Trump. And the mainstream media isn’t likely to keep that news quiet.
The main takeaway from this debate is a return to normalcy. Trump is back to being a self-destructive leader of a populist movement with no real positions except winning. Kamala Harris is replacing the supposedly moderate Biden as a supposedly moderate replacement. The media is back to being a mouthpiece for the Democratic Party.
If you want an analysis of Trump’s
Park
performance, look at all of the major news media and the multitude of biased and often false fact-checkers. If you want analysis of Harris’ performance, look at Fox News and the alt-media sphere like the Daily Wire (when they aren’t complaining about the moderators and Trump’s performance themselves).
Don’t bother looking for a fact check of any of Harris’ claims from the mainstream media. Like Biden, Harris was not only able to get away with, but the moderators even agreed with, the debunked Charlottesville narrative. You have the lies about Trump’s position and connection with Project 2025 and lies about what is inside that document. You have Harris and the moderators lying about his stance on abortion, even if he refuses to help himself in the moment to clarify. Harris egregiously claimed that, “There is not one member of the United States military who is in an active-duty combat zone around the world,” a fact the personnel aboard the USS Carney in the fight against the Houthi rebels in the Red Sea or the several dozen soldiers on bases in Iraq that were drone-struck would disagree with.
But this is the status quo. It was only because of the insane disaster of Biden exposing the state of his age that forced the mainstream media to critique and challenge the Biden administration. They are not watchdogs; they are lapdogs. They are the gaslighters of the Union. Why is the rhetoric and temperature in the country so high and volatile? Because the main-
stream media has been leaking noxious, flammable gas into the American public through their lies.
It is only because of Republicans’ inability to return to their own pre-2015 normalcy that characters like Biden, Harris, or Hillary Clinton were and are even viable candidates. The only man Biden could beat was Trump. The only person Harris may be able to beat is Trump (remember she received zero votes in the 2020 Democratic primary), and the only person who Trump is proven to be able to beat is Clinton.
Trump needed to put the focus on Harris and make her answer for her current tenure in the Biden-Harris administration. He was incapable of doing so. He
said after the debate that he saved what was his best argument for his closing statement, asking Harris, “Why haven’t you done it in three years?” His closing statement was his strongest two minutes. Instead of talking about Haitian immigrants in Ohio eating pets and Ralph Northam’s afterbirth abortion comments (which are true, but so old and memory-holed that no one knows what Trump’s talking about), Trump could have pivoted questions about the border, foreign policy, and the economy on the current administration. Instead, Trump was trumped by Harris’ highly effective but not very difficult task of getting Trump to talk about himself and his variety of grievances.
University and NAVO Arts partner for season-opening concert
Emyani Gotow Reporter
Park University’s International Center for Music (Park ICM) launched its 20242025 season in grand style with a collaborative concert alongside Overland Park, Kansas’ NAVO Arts. The performance took place on Friday, Sept. 20, at 7:30 p.m. at the Folly Theater in Kansas City, Mo.
Music lovers enjoyed a night filled with virtuosity. At the center of the performance will be world-renowned pianist Behzod Abduraimov, currently serving as Park ICM’s Artist-in-Residence. Alongside Park alumnus Maestro Shah Sadikov (‘12), founder, CEO, and conductor of NAVO Arts, the two led the combined ensemble.
The University continues its 2024-2025
season with a recital by graduate student Ilya Shmukler. The performance will take place on Saturday, Oct. 5, at 7:30 p.m. at the 1900 Building in Mission Woods, Kan. In June 2024, Shmukler emerged as a winner, along with four additional prizes, at the prestigious Concours Géza Anda Piano Competition in Zurich, Switzerland. Additionally, he was a finalist at the 2022 Van Cliburn International Piano
Competition in Fort Worth, Texas. Both concerts mark the beginning of Park ICM’s new season. By uniting the exceptional talents and dedication of the honorable musicians, the program promises a rich tapestry of musical expression. For more information about the concert and ticketing details, visit Park University’s website: park.edu/news/icm-abduraimov-navo-concert.
PHOTO COURTESY/Getty Images
Cross country team shows high potential for 2024 season
Destiny Pearson Reporter
Park University’s cross country team kicked off their season at the Bob Timmons Classic Invite at Kansas University on Saturday, Aug. 31, 2024. The meet drew attention from local sports enthusiasts and showcased the team’s determination.
Freshman Lily Brecheisen led the women’s team with a strong 43rd place finish in the 5K, clocking 21:59. She noted that the hilly course was challenging but expressed optimism for the team’s potential.
Sophomore Hannah Mand, competing in her first cross country meet, finished 50th with a time of 23:35, hoping the experience will enhance her track performance.
On the men’s side, freshman Palmer O’Connor finished 28th in the 6K with a time of 20:14, while sophomore Tom Kuehnel matched him with the same time, finishing 29th. Both athletes showed promise for the season ahead, with O’Connor eager to make the most of his collegiate opportunities.
Head Coach Rikki Hacker praised the team’s efforts against tougher competition, emphasizing the importance of this meet for evaluating their performance.
Although Park University did not secure top honors, their individual achievements and teamwork highlighted their potential for the season.
The team aims to build on their experiences as they prepare for their next meet, the Brian Simpson Invite in Columbia, Mo. on Oct. 12, 2024, focusing on improving their times and strategies moving forward.
‘Support a sport’ provides funds for all Park athletes
Mateus Carvalho Reporter
Park University’s “Talk Like a Pirate Day,” which was held Thursday, Sept. 19, 2024, brought an additional opportunity for the community to make a difference. On that day, Park Athletics hosted a “Support a Sport” day of giving, encouraging Pirates from all around to unite in support of student-athletes.
This annual event matches up with Park University Athletics’ mission of developing champions of character who do well in both the classroom and competition. As student-athletes return to class and their sports, the university asked supporters to help create new academic and athletic opportunities. Donations from the event provided student-athletes with leading academic support, elite sports performance training, and sports medicine care.
“Talk Like a Pirate Day” is more than just a fun event, it’s an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of Park athletes. The funds raised will help the Pirates remain strong as they pursue excellence on and off the field. From academic development to athletic performance, every contribution helps Park maintain its commitment to developing complete student-athletes.
Fans, alumni, and proud supporters were welcome to participate in the initiative and show their Pirate spirit. The community was able to work together to help Park’s student-athletes achieve their goals, build on their successful legacy and contribute to a lasting impact. Every donation helps Park University’s athletes succeed through competition and character development.
PHOTOS COURTESY/Park Athletics
Lily Brecheisen (left) and Palmer O’Connor (right) led Park University’s cross country team to victory.
SPORTS
October 4, 2024
Death of Olympian brings domestic violence issue to light
Mati Smith Assistant Editor-in-Chief
Rebecca Cheptegei was targeted because of her success.
Cheptegei, an Olympic marathon runner for Uganda, was doused in petrol and set on fire by her former partner Dickson Ndiema. She died Sept. 5, 2024, from the burns she sustained during the incident.
On Sunday, Sept. 1, 2024 Ndiema asked his friend for a lighter and said it was for “an emergency.” He then snuck onto Cheptegei’s land and hid until she came outside and attacked her. After the attack, 75 percent of Cheptegei’s body was covered in burns, as was 41 percent of Ndiema’s body. Ndiema also died of sepsis and airway burns just days after his former partner, on Sept. 10, 2024. Police did not interview or question him before his death.
Cheptegei, 33, and Ndiema, 32, had what many believed what a rough relationship from the beginning. Friends and family of Cheptegei said Ndiema was abusive towards her, and that is why she had decided to walk away from the relationship in January of 2024.
Cheptegei lived in Kenya and, as an athlete, was the breadwinner for her family. Kenyan female athletes, who earn more money in a single marathon than most in Kenya do in a year, are known to be targets for manipulation and control because of the money elite athletes make.
Cheptegei reported Ndiema to police in May because he sent men to force her to hand over land she had purchased to him, then again in August for making threats towards her. However, police did not do anything after the reports were made. Reports show because Cheptegei’s name was on the deed and Ndiema was listed as a witness, police believe the dispute between the two was just about land.
She is the third Kenyan athlete female runner to be killed by a significant other. World record breaker and Kenyan runner Agnes Jebet Tirop was stabbed to death by her husband in 2021. Damaris Muthee Mutua, another Kenyan-born athlete, was strangled by her significant other in 2022.
This case has brought light to domestic violence that happens towards successful female athletes in Kenya.
Cheptegei, who ran during the 2024 Paris Olympics, was a part of the Ugandan defense forces. She has two daughters, 9 and 11 years old, with ex-husband Simon Ayeko.
Pirate Madness supports homecoming events
PHOTOS COURTESY/Park Athletics
Park University’s homecoming weekend celebration took place Sept. 26 through Sept. 28, 2024. Parents, faculty, alumni, and students participated in alumni games and ceremonies hosted on campus. The women’s volleyball team played MidAmerica Nazarene University Friday, Sept. 27, while Saturday’s events included an alumni and student tailgate, soccer games, the Wall of Honor recognition, and the crowning of the homecoming court. For the volleyball game, each sports team dressed up to show support. Pictured (from left, then clockwise), are the women’s basketball team, women’s soccer team, men’s soccer team, women’s golf team, women’s volleyball team, and women’s softball team.