MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY
THE STANDARD SEPTEMBER ISSUE
Renovations coming to McDonald Arena on pg. 4!
Band performance schedule on pg. 6!
MSU’s new QB1 on pg. 8!
Cider Days and fall events calender on pg. 12!
“The Odyssey” review on pg. 14!
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A note from the editor A very big welcome back from The Standard is due! The year is fully upon us now, and with a month behind us, it looks like there is no intention of slowing down! Missouri State Athletics announced major developments coming to its football facilities, with phase one recently being presented to the Board of Governors. Bears Football also has a new starting quarterback, Skyler Locklear. Additionally, Women’s Soccer takes a win over Mizzou for the first time in nearly 30 years! Aside from fall sports, Springfield is eager to welcome the autumn season with local favorites, like Cider Days, and many other events! This September issue has been designed to get you excited and informed about the fall ahead! So settle in Bears, we are in for a busy, wonderful fall! Ella Conklin, Editor-in-Chief
Cover design by Ruby Knight On the cover: McDonald Arena is undergoing renovations to become a new football facility! The historic building is getting a face-lift to support our football Bears!
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is Missouri State University’s student-produced newspaper. The university has not approved and is not responsible for its content, which is produced and edited by the students on The Standard staff.
India Foote junior reporter
Halley junior reporter Standard staff Delta Olivia Lyon junior reporter Editors and leadership Ella Conklin editor-in-chief Jorja Lageschulte campus administration editor Hunter Meacheam campus activities editor Maddux Radosevic sports editor Rylie Robinson arts and culture editor Lucia Arreola Macazani all-topics editor Sam Roehrig newsletter editor Ruby Knight chief graphics illustrator Reporters and junior reporters KC Culbertson sports reporter Elizabeth Dedert sports reporter Collen Fuller reporter Ruby Knight reporter Olamide Ogunmolawa reporter Ayricka Pointer sports reporter Jamie Santner sports reporter Abby Sommer reporter Camryn Threlkeld reporter Harper Adams junior reporter Jenna Adams junior reporter Beau Edenfield junior reporter
James McCloskey junior sports reporter Calvin Pointer junior reporter Copy Editors Dani Cook chief copy editor Candice Dalton copy editor Hanna Nickles copy editor Advertising staff McKenna Miller advertising sales assistant Professional staff Jack Dimond faculty adviser
The Standard 901 S. National Avenue • Springfield, MO 65897 • 417-836-5272 Standard@MissouriState.edu the-standard.org
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Rendering provided by Missouri State University
Missouri State Athletics unveils its master plan football rendering ELIZABETH DEDERT Sports Reporter Qelizabethdedert
Missouri State University athletics recently turned heads as it released striking new visual mock-ups detailing a multi-phase, multimillion-dollar overhaul of its football facilities. The athletics master plan presented to the university’s Board of Governors outlines a strategic vision to transform the student-athlete experience and to capitalize on the growing program following its transition to Football Bowl Subdivision football in Conference USA. The proposed upgrades are split into immediate, player-focused modernizations and longterm stadium enhancements. The initial focus will revitalize the historic, 1940s-era McDonald Arena located just north of the stadium. The plan aims to build a brand-new, 8,500-squarefoot football locker room in the east wing and convert the main court into a large-scale weight room for the team. This is all being added on top of the already planned uncovering and extending of the historic game-day tunnel connecting McDonald’s Arena directly to the playing field for an epic team entrance. Future phases outlined in the mock-ups shift focus towards the enhancement of the fan ex-
perience at Plaster Stadium. Proposed changes include structural renovations to the west side seating bowl, expanding premium club seating, adding second-level luxury suites and creating an overall upscale feel for seating in the current north end zone. Also proposed is a public fan plaza just outside the stadium. The mock-ups look beyond the stadium gates to propose a new indoor football practice facility. The site would sit south of Grand Street and would replace lots 18 and 22, which now provide parking for Missouri State staff and students. This site will also feature an adjoining Bearfest Village Park dedicated to expanding the school’s popular tailgating scene. This project follows a wave of recent upgrades to Plaster Stadium, including a complete redesign of the football field with fresh turf, which features a prominent outline of Missouri on the 50-yard-line. New stadium lighting and upgraded surfaces for volleyball and basketball were also recently completed to prepare the venues for higher levels of competition. By repurposing a historic area of campus such as McDonald Arena rather than building an end zone complex from scratch, the athletic department estimates saving tens of millions of dollars in immediate development costs. The board executive committee accepted
the preliminary presentation back in August of this year; going up against the Board of Governors on Sept. 16 will be proposed plans for the locker room, tunnel and potentially an equipment room, training room and weight room. If the proposed plans are approved by the board of governors, athletic director Patrick
Ransdell hopes construction will start at the end of the month, stating, “By the end of the month and going into early October you’ll see things starting to be kicked off.” The rest of the proposed upgrades are mainly funding-dependent and donor-funded, according to Ransdell, and are not expected to start for another five to 10 years.
Rendering provided by Missouri State University The master plan involves uncovering and extending the tunnel connecting McDonald Arena to the playing field.
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Student seat on Board of Governors remains vacant for over a year
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The fall season
Overrated or time-honored? OLAMIDE OGUNMOLAWA Reporter
Illustration by Ruby Knight JORJA LAGESCHULTE Campus Admin Editor Qjorjalageschulte The MSU Board of Governors approved a liaison position with less access to board meetings in early August for the student governor seat that has been empty since Fall 2025. Student governor is a non-voting student representative position on the board of governors that must be appointed by Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe and three applications were sent to his office last semester. Jamie Birch, chief of staff/assistant to the president for government relations, explained why the liaison position was created. “State law requires that the governor appoint the student position,” said Birch, “so we basically just have to wait and see, you know, when he makes an appointment. So it’s been vacant for a while.” The Student Government Association urged the Board of Governors to create a temporary position to hold the seat and represent student interest until an official student governor is chosen. The liaison position will be held by Student Body President Walter Reyes. “(Former Student Body President) Colin Chastain had indicated that SGA was interested in having a student representative on the board,” said Birch, “We heard the frustration from Student Government Association, and then just from students who were interested in serving on the board.” University President Williams said the liaison position will have the same rights and authorities as a student governor, but according to the Board of Governors bylaws, the liaison is unable to attend closed meetings of the Board of Governors.
The bylaws state, “The student liaison shall not be permitted to attend closed meetings of the board.” The Standard reached out to five other public Missouri universities that had a similar empty student representative position that required appointment from Kehoe. Harris-Stowe State University and the University of Missouri did not reply in time for publication. It was confirmed by the respective administrations that Missouri Western State University, Northwest Missouri State University, and the University of Central Missouri are all waiting for a student representative position from Kehoe. Birch confirmed that Missouri State University is also waiting for appointments for two regular Board of Governor positions, the 1st and 4th congressional districts, but noted that due to legislation passed on Aug. 28, 2026, one more at-large member can be appointed. “So even though those specific districts are vacant, if our current members stay the same, one of those could be from any congressional district.” said Birch, “We do have several members serving on expired terms, though. Accordingly, some of those current filled positions could have new appointments in the future.” Susan Hardy was the last student to hold the student governor seat from fall 2024 to fall 2025 after being appointed by former Gov. Parson when the legislature was not in session. When Parson left office, the appointment was withdrawn in January 2025 to provide Kehoe flexibility. The last officially appointed student governor was Bradley Cooper, who served from spring 2023 to spring 2024.
In the spring, the trees and flowers blossom with breezy, cool days to match. In the summer all the flowers and trees come to a full blossom under warm, sunny skies. Then there is the winter, where they lie dormant, stripped of their leaves and life, bare and stark. But then there is the fall, the season that makes all the other seasons look dull in comparison. If anything, fall is underrated because of how magical that it truly is. Fall is when the plants start to wilt and as they are wilting the process looks beautiful. Let’s be honest, fall is the best season to be experienced. It has a way of making a grand entrance. First, the air, that first crisp morning air that catches you off guard saying change is coming. The sunshine then takes on a new life as it takes a golden, almost lazy stroll across the sky. Finally, the leaves, that paint the world in hues that no artist could hope to capture, in burnt orange, deep crimson and amber gold. What other season can boast of such riches? Other seasons tend to have one thing going for them and one thing only. Spring is all hope, but hope drenched in rain. Summer is all fun but often stifling hot. Winter is all majesty, but under a layer of icy cruelty, that keeps us bottled up for months at a time. But fall is the season that has it all, the cool, but not frigid temperatures, perfect to wrap oneself in a cozy sweater, while enjoying a walk through the woods. It is the season where one can sleep with the windows open, wrapped in a light blanket, listening to the leaves blow in the breeze. And what about the sheer aesthetics of fall? Pumpkin spice lattes aren’t just a marketing ploy. They are an exercise in relaxation, a chance to enjoy the warm, comfortable smells of cinnamon, nutmeg and clove. Sweaters and scarves aren’t just fashion statements, they are works of art that make us look good and feel good. Apple orchards, hayrides and corn mazes are all traditions that bind families together, that create lasting memories in the minds of children and parents alike. There is almost a nostalgic feeling in the very air of autumn, a feeling of coming home perhaps. Of fond memories of back to school, of trick-or-treating. Of holidays spent with family and friends, feasting and sharing and enjoying each other’s company. A feeling of warmth, not temperature, but of spirit.
Photo by Olamide Ogunmolawa Fall flavored drinks including pumpkin spice, maple and brown sugar are very popular during autumn and even take on a life of thier own. Critics of autumn would have you believe that it is commercialized, and that the season has become more about shopping than sitting in the leaves and enjoying the breeze. But what’s wrong with that? Just because something’s more popular, doesn’t mean it’s less meaningful. After all, fall is a holiday for everyone, and as such, everyone gets something out of it. A chance to enjoy, and appreciate the world around them, in all its burning, dying glory. Fall is a time of the year that everyone looks forward to, and a season that few and far between can articulate. That’s why we can all agree that fall is the most wonderful time of year.
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MSU bands
Incredible music meets amazing Photo by Jenna Adams performance MSU Pride Marching Band practice at Plaster Stadium to prepare for stellar halftime performances during football games. ABBY SOMMER Reporter Qabbys2025
If you’re a fan of music, then you’re in luck! Whether you’re a fan of classical music or classic rock, Missouri State has some amazing ensembles for you to enjoy listening to. These incredibly talented musicians work extremely hard, practice constantly and excel at every performance. Here are some of our incredible, hardworking ensembles and their fall performances for you to check out. Wind Ensemble The Missouri State Wind Ensemble is our premier wind band, selected by audition. The Wind Ensemble includes woodwinds such as flutes, clarinets and saxophones; brass instruments such as trumpets and trombones; and various percussion instruments. They have appeared at several distinguished band conferences, such as MMEA conferences. With a continually growing repertoire, you are sure to enjoy any of their concerts. Seeking to expose their students and audiences to the highest-quality music, their repertoire includes everything from the Renaissance to contemporary pieces. Thursday, Sept. 24 at 7:30 p.m. The Wind Ensemble will perform at Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts. The first concert of the academic year, it’s always exciting to see new faces and hear the result of the hard work that the students put in during the first weeks of school. Tuesday, Nov. 17 at 7:30 p.m. The Wind Ensemble will perform at Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts. As the academic year progresses, so too does the sophistication and complexity of the repertoire and its performance. Wind Symphony Another one of Missouri State’s advanced bands, selected by audition, the Missouri State Wind Symphony is a great concert to go to. Committed to broadening its students’ artistic
level and interests, the wide range of its repertoire has something for everyone in the audience. Thursday, Sept. 24 at 7:30 p.m. The Wind Symphony will perform at Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts alongside the Wind Ensemble. With new faces and new music, the first concert of the academic year is always an exciting time.
and saxophones; brass instruments including trumpets and trombones; and various percussion instruments. Monday, Oct. 12 at 7:30 p.m. The Community Band will perform at Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts. Monday, Dec. 7 at 7:30 p.m. The Community Band will perform in the gymnasium of First & Calvary Church.
Photo by Jenna Adams Pride Marching Band includes color guard, with flag bearers that harness all the pep! Tuesday, Nov. 17 at 7:30 p.m. The Wind Symphony will perform at Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts alongside the Wind Ensemble. Community Band A unique ensemble composed of musicians from all around the community at all different levels, the Missouri State Community Band has a distinctively entertaining style. This ensemble includes woodwinds such as clarinets
Marching Band Probably the most familiar ensemble here at Missouri State, our Pride Marching Band is an incredibly fun way to get a dose of good music. This ensemble includes every instrument from woodwinds to percussion, and whether watching them in a parade or catching them at a home football game, the hard work and precision of this dedicated ensemble is evident. Marching alongside our also outstanding color
guard, their remarkable collaboration is evident throughout their performances. Concert Band One of Missouri State’s non-audition bands, the Missouri State Concert Band is definitely a crowd-pleaser. Striving to create an environment where all students can enjoy making music, the Concert Band provides a uniquely enjoyable sound. Although they only have concerts in the spring semester, definitely be on the lookout for more information as the next semester grows closer. About the directors Dr. Brad Snow Dr. Brad Snow is director of bands for Missouri State University and directs both the Missouri State Wind Ensemble and the Missouri State PRIDE Marching Band. Snow is a renowned director, previously having served as director of bands with the University of Missouri (Mizzou), where he also directed its Wind Ensemble and marching band. He has also served as a member of the United States Marine Band, where he led its premier bass quintet and served as the assistant conductor of its concert and ceremonial bands. As a collegiate band director, he has conducted ensembles at several CBDNA and MMEA conferences, as well as served as the executive administrator of the National Band Association. Dr. Matthew Boswell Dr. Matthew Boswell is the associate director of bands at Missouri State and co-directs the Missouri State PRIDE Marching Band, organizes Bearmania athletic bands, conducts the Missouri State Wind Symphony and teaches courses in music education. Boswell has earned a Ph.D. in music education with an emphasis in instrumental conducting and a master’s degree in music education from Florida State University. In between his university studies, he taught comprehensive high school bands that consistently achieved highly at both the district and state levels.
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Photo by MSU Creative Services
Skyler Locklear Mo State’s new quaterback JAMIE SANTNER Sports Reporter Qjamiesantner The Missouri State University football team had an eventful offseason after head coach Casey Woods arrived in Springfield, Missouri, from Dallas, Texas. From new transfers coming in to a plethora of coaching and staff changes, everyone has been wondering if this brand-new Bears team can capitalize on the success of the 2025 season, one that led to a 7-6 record and an appearance in the Xbox Bowl in the team’s first year in the
Football Bowl Subdivision. But there was one question that was consistently asked by both fans and the media throughout this offseason: Who was gonna be the new starting quarterback? Two quarterbacks transferred to the 417 to see if they could be the replacement for former Bear Jacob Clark: Henry Belin IV, a fifth-year signal-caller coming from Duke, and Skyler Locklear, another fifth-year player who followed offensive coordinator Mark Cala to Springfield from former conference foe UTEP. Locklear bounced between starter and backup throughout his two seasons with the Miners,
becoming the QB1 in 2024 before being benched that year for Cade McConnell. While Locklear did regain the starting job that year, he’d be benched again for former five-star recruit Malachi Nelson in 2025 before becoming a starter again for the last seven games of the season, including playing in last year’s Homecoming game at Missouri State. Before coming to UTEP, the fifth-year player spent his first couple of seasons with Austin Peay, where he didn’t see much action. Throughout both summer and training camp, the quarterbacks dueled to see who was gonna carry the QB1 title. Curiosity was at an all-time
high during Conference USA Media Days, held July 20-21 in Dallas, Texas. Woods even mentioned that “both quarterbacks have started games and have won games” and showed confidence that either quarterback can come in and execute the offense in ways that can help the team win, especially when it comes to building the offense’s identity. “The two most important throws a quarterback can make are the deep-throw and screen, whether it’s a spotter or a bubble,” Woods said at the CUSA Football Kickoff press conference. “Then, we develop the mid-range pass game and what we do on third down after, but I be-
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lieve that both players can do that.” Woods finished his statements at the football kickoff by saying that both Locklear and Belin “pulled for each other, learned the offense together, and have understood their values and role on the team” and that he “has confidence in both their role and their development of who they want to be.” As the regular season got closer, anticipation went through the roof, as every fan, the media and the community were on the edge of their seats waiting to see who would become QB1 for the Bears. It wasn’t until Aug. 19 that Woods named Locklear the starting quarterback, and Locklear soon said he was excited to be the starter at MO State. “It means a lot to me, and it’s gonna mean even more when we go out here and show the world what we can do, what we’ve been doing in practice, all fall camp,” Locklear said. The 23-year-old from Clayton, North Carolina, also described how confident he is in himself and his team. “I just feel confident in the work that we’ve put in,” Locklear said. “I feel confident in the guys around me, I feel confident in the experience that I have, and all of that has really upped my confidence.” Locklear’s stats in his final season with the Miners included 13 passing touchdowns and 17 interceptions. The fifth-year player also threw for 1,418 yards and rushed for 396 yards and eight touchdowns. Despite being considered undersized in the NCAA at 5 feet, 11 inches tall, Locklear was described by Cala as a player who makes up for his height “with his ability to make plays off script.” “He can make plays with his legs, and so I’ve got all the faith in the world in him as a player and as a person,” Cala said. Cala also said Locklear reminds him of NFL players such as Baker Mayfield and Kyler Mur-
ray, who use their size and agility to make plays that ultimately help the team on offense. Woods also gave some praise to the fifthyear quarterback during August and September, especially in the weeks before the Week 1 matchup against eighth-ranked Texas A&M. In the Week 1 press conference Monday, Aug. 31, Woods mentioned Locklear’s experience playing against Power Four opponents, more specifically when he started for UTEP at Nebraska in 2024, and praised his fearlessness on the field, especially in big environments. “Locklear is fearless,” Woods said. “He’s got great poise, got great awareness on the field.” Woods went on to say that the team has “bought into him” and that his story of being an underdog fighting for a starting spot every year at UTEP has “inspired players on the team.” “He (Locklear) is a great story,” Woods said. “He is a great kid, our players rally around him, and I believe that some of the moxie and things he had to overcome to get to the position he is in now gives him a different level of confidence than other quarterbacks out there.” One of the players rallying around Locklear is fellow fifth-year player and offensive lineman Isaiah Villanueva. “Man, I love my little dog,” Villanueva said. “He’s back there, we got like a little Baker Mayfield back there. He be chirping. He be chirping at us. We go to dinner together with him. Just really building that bond. We haven’t had as much time together as some other teams in the conference, but he came together well, and we enjoy blocking for that little fellow.” Woods said teammates like Villanueva “feed off” Locklear’s confidence and that they “listen to everything that he says in the huddle.” “(He) has a scrappy dude mentality that his teammates love,” Woods said.
Remaining football schedule Sept. 19 Sept. 26 Oct. 8 Oct. 14 Oct. 20 Oct. 27 Nov. 7 Nov. 14 Nov. 21 Nov. 28
Home Away Away Home Away Home Away Home Away Home
Marshall SMU WKU Kennesaw St. Delaware SHSU FIU NMSU Jax State Liberty
*All dates are subject to change. For more information visit MissouriStateBears. com.
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Mo State, no mo fraud University uses participation verification to combat identity theft
Photo by MSU Creative Services The Missouri State women’s soccer team defeated the Missouri Tigers on Aug. 23 with a 1-0 win. Senior Lillie Rasmussen (14) scored the only goal.
Bears defeat Tigers Illustration by Ruby Knight RUBY KNIGHT Reporter Qrubyknight As the semester got underway this August, Missouri State students saw another responsibility added to their already long first-weekof-class list. They must now ensure that their participation is verified in each of their classes. If they don’t, it could be curtains for their financial aid. In an Office of Student Financial Aid blog post published on Aug. 14, Director of Financial Aid Rob Moore wrote, “The most important change is that your participation at the beginning of the semester can now directly affect the processing of your financial aid.” The Standard paid a visit to the Vice President of Enrollment Management, Dr. Dawn Medley, seeking clarification around this new policy. She was happy to provide it. “I would say it’s not necessarily a policy, it’s a practice,” Medley said. It’s not new–the student verification has simply been shifted earlier due to additional scrutiny from the federal government, specifically the Department of Education, which requires MSU “to make sure that students are in the classes for which they receive Title IV federal aid,” Medley said. Students can fulfill this requirement by completing a quiz, attending a class session, or writing a discussion post, to name a few examples. Typically, having email contact with your
instructor does not fill this requirement. However, Medley says, “that is all up to the faculty member.” Ultimately, the instructor is the one who verifies engagement with the course, so they have the final say as to what counts. This spring, MSU introduced a $40 application fee with the aim of preventing fraudulent college applications used to steal financial aid. Verifying academic engagement early in the semester hopes to thwart this same scheme. According to Medley, fraudsters have been stealing prospective college students’ identities and using them to apply to MSU, get admitted, and collect financial aid in their name. When the federal government identifies the fraud, the University must then return these stolen funds; funds they no longer possess. “We figure out that student isn’t really here, maybe two, three months down the road, and the university has to pay that out. And so that’s a financial hit to the institution,” Medley says. For Medley, the adaptability of students, faculty and staff to the change has been remarkable. “Technology folks” had the necessary systems up and running quickly. Faculty and students voiced little resistance. Medley expressed her hopes that this practice has not created any barriers for students. Those in need of assistance should contact VerifyParticipation@MissouriState.edu.
Women’s soccer ends nearly 30year win drought over Mizzou KC CULBERTSON Sports Reporter Qgrillin_guy_KC Who would win in a fight, a bear or a tiger? Well, at least in women’s soccer, it’s a bear. On Aug. 23 at Betty and Bobby Allison Field, Missouri State University’s women’s soccer team defeated the University of Missouri’s team in a narrow 1-0 victory. The victory marked a breath of fresh air for the Bears, as MSU had not defeated the Tigers in women’s soccer since 1996 before this triumph, ending a five-match losing streak against MU. “I felt the team was in a good spot after playing some other Power Fours,” head coach Kirk Nelson said about the squad heading into the game. Those Power Fours he was referring to were the University of Kansas and Kansas State University, certainly a splash of cold water to the face to wake the Bears up. Unfortunately for the Bears, they lost those games. And to most, it looked like they would lose to the Tigers too. But not to Nelson. “Each game we want to get a little better than the day before, and that was a huge message for us.” And better they got. As the game clock was about to reach the 85-minute mark, goal keeper Kate Lewis was a steel wall, not allowing the Tigers to advance. The game was nearing an end, but the Bears
were not hungry for a tie. So, after a free kick, sophomore Ellie Neath launched a kick that connected with junior Maggie O’Keefe’s noggin, which placed the ball in the path of senior Lillie Rasmussen. Rasmussen then drove the ball into the Tiger’s net. Bears over Tigers. This marked both the first win for the Bears and the first goal scored of the season. “I just thought it was a neat special moment for her to have that goal and be able to sacrifice and do it in the way she did,” Nelson said. “I expect big things from her for the rest of the season as well.” But Nelson won’t let the victory spoil anything. “It’s a great feeling right now. But, you do not want to get numb by great wins. We got to keep it going against the other opponents. But, you also want to feel it again, so let’s keep building and keep growing.” The Bears need to continue to grow and build for conference play, which is only a few weeks away. The pressure will be on the Bears, as they are dominant in conference play. “In the last four years, we have been in three out of four championship games. Even in the new conference (Conference USA) last year, we got into the final,” Nelson said. Now, the attention shifts to this season, as the Bears look to continue their tradition of excellence.
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Big fan of making Game Day a fashion show!
Located on second floor of the Plaster Student Union
AT SIPS AND SCOOPS, A LITTLE INDULGENCE GOES A long way! Visit us at
3202 W Republic Rd, Suite 500 Springfield, MO MON-FRI 7am-8pm SAT-SUN 8am-8pm Students get 25% discount with student ID
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File photo by W. Paul Bohlen Families and MSU students alike enjoy activities on Historic Walnut Street during Cider Days, including these attendees from 2024. The 2026 edition will be Sept. 19-20.
Springfield’s fall kickoff
Cider Days fills Walnut Street with signs of the season
HUNTER MEACHEAM Campus Life Editor QHuntermeacheam
As summer slowly fades to fall, Springfield’s very own Historic Walnut Street once again becomes an annual gathering place for residents and visitors. For two days, artists, food vendors, musicians and local businesses fill the busy street for Cider Days: an annual festival that has managed to become a Springfield tradition, bringing the Springfield metropolitan community together through local art, vendors and entertainment. “Cider Days is really Springfield’s kickoff celebration of fall,” said Crystal Quade, the Downtown Springfield Association executive director. “For
two days, we take over Historic Walnut Street with artists and makers, live music and performances, local food, and of course, apple cider.” Cider Days began in the late 1990s and has continued to grow for nearly three decades. Quade says the setting is part of what makes Cider Days so special. Walnut Street’s tree-lined streets and historic homes work together to cultivate the perfect backdrop for celebration to give the festival that distinct Springfield feel. Quade added, “Together, we’re really focused on preserving what people love about Cider Days while continuing to strengthen the quality and diversity of artists and experiences at the festival.” Putting together an event of this scale takes more than just the two days
visitors see, months of planning go into coordinating and organizing with vendors, artists, obtaining permits, arranging street closures and securing sponsorships. Quade says work extends far beyond the organizations responsible for planning the event. “Cider Days may be a DSA event, but producing it truly takes a community,” she added. And that community effort is part of what organizers say makes the festival so important to Springfield. “I think that the best community events become traditions, and Cider Days has reached that point,” Quade added. “There are people who have been coming for years, who are now bringing their kids or introducing friends.” For residents, the festival rep-
resents much more than just a weekend event. It acts as a marker of the changing seasons and a tradition passed down through generations of Springfield residents. Cider Days also demonstrates how a community event can contribute to the city beyond just entertainment. “Events like this remind us that a strong downtown isn’t just about buildings or the businesses, It’s also about creating places and experiences where people feel connected to their own community,” Quade said. This year the festival will also coincide with Missouri State University’s Family Weekend, giving students and families an opportunity to experience one of Springfield’s annual fall traditions. Additionally, this year marks a new chapter for the festival as the
Downtown Springfield Association partners with the Springfield Regional Arts Council. As Cider Days returns to Historic Walnut Street, the festival will continue on a tradition that formed nearly 30 years ago while also entering a new era of partnership with Springfield Regional Arts Council. The result will be a weekend centered on the beauty of fall, local art, music, food and warm apple cider. Tickets are currently $5 and are available for purchase on the Downtown Springfield Association’s website. The event takes place Sept 19-20 and is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Additionally, more information regarding the festival can be found at https://www.itsalldowntown.com/ciderdays.
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The Ozarks’ autumn calender Top five fall festivities to check out this season
Illustration by Ella Conklin LUCIA ARREOLA MACAZANI All-Topics Editor Qluciamacazani Fall is finally on its way again to Springfield! Whether someone is a lifelong resident or brand new to the area, there is already so much to do. While there is a wide array of events we could list, these top festivities are sure to be either a warm revisit to a nostalgic time for those familiar with the city or entertaining ways to get to know the city better for those who are experiencing their first fall here. Cider Days 2026 The Downtown Springfield Association has collaborated with the Springfield Regional Arts Council to host Cider Days. Historic Walnut Street will be home to this two-day fall festival on Sept. 19-20 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on both days. It is a weekend that promises to be full of entertainment. There will be live music, local crafters and artists, plenty of food, includ-
ing wonderful apple cider! Being so near to campus also makes it perfect for any MSU student to enjoy. Tickets are only $5, with children under 5 years of age can enter free, available at the venue or at www.itsalldowntown. com. White Hart Renaissance Faire Nearby in Hartville, less than an hour away from Springfield, there is the center for immersion into fantastical worlds. Sept. 19 features a Fae Masquerade Ball from 6 p.m.-11:59 p.m. “A Night Beyond the Fall Veil” will feature live entertainment and ticket purchases include complimentary drinks and small plates. October will also feature Ren Faire events, with themes going from autumnal to the spookier side with the Feast of the Goblin King. More information and tickets are at https://www. whitehartfaire.com. Black Walnut Festival 2026 The 66th Annual Black Walnut Festival will be hosted by The Stockton Lake Sertoma Club
from Sept. 24-26 in Stockton, MO. The schedule includes walnut judging, terrapin races, tractor pulls and much more. Taking place on the last Thursday, Friday and Saturday of the month, it is sure to bring in the joy of autumn after the turn of the autumn equinox on Sept. 23. There will also be live music and the highlight of the festivities, a parade on the last day. Visitors can browse and shop while enjoying good food and entertaining activities. Wilder Days Fans of Little House on the Prairie, history, and music will love this step back into the past to celebrate classic pioneer girl turned acclaimed author Laura Ingalls Wilder. From Sept. 25-26 there will be celebrations both downtown and at the Wilder house in Mansfield, MO, where the Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum will also be proud to host the 10th Annual Fiddle Contest this year. There will also be a “Wilder Dinner” and Literature festival during this last weekend of the month, more information at
https://lauraingallswilderhome.com/calendar-of-events. Ozark Mill and Quilting The Ozark Mill will be hosting a free twoday festival featuring live music, food and fun near their historic mill. Finley River has had this mill since 1833, and Finley Farms is celebrating from Sept. 25-26. While in Ozark, the Piecemakers Quilt Guilt is having a recurring fabric sale until the last weekend in September selling enough fabric to fill a crafter’s dream. Once again, these are only some of the events taking place around the area. There is sure to be something for everyone regardless of what they are interested in, so this fall is the perfect opportunity to go out and enjoy the season. Whether someone is a crafter, reader or simply a lover of fall, there is an event out there for them.
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“The Odyssey” Does it stay true to the original story? ABBY SOMMER Reporter Qabbys2025
Photo by MSU Creative Services Center fielder Caden Bogenphol is headed to the pros after three years at MSU.
MSU alum Caden Bogenpohl drafted by Phillies to MLB JAMES MCCLOSKEY Junior Sports Reporter Qmccloskeyjames039
Missouri State University star outfielder Caden Bogenpohl was selected 64th overall by the Philadelphia Phillies in the 2026 MLB Draft. This selection makes Bogenpohl the seventh-highest draft pick in Missouri State history and the highest-drafted outfielder in program history. He is the highest-picked player since infielder Jeremy Eirmen was selected 70th overall by the Oakland Athletics in 2018. The 6-foot-6-inch center fielder from Jackson, Missouri, was a key player in the success of the 2026 Missouri State baseball team, helping lead the Bears to a 34-21 record and their first NCAA tournament appearance since 2022. He showed off his heroics on March 31, when he hit a walk-off home run in the 10th inning against then No. 17 ranked Arkansas to cap off a 15-14 slugfest. Bogenpohl slashed .288/.441/.536 in his three years at Missouri State with 39 home runs. He also broke former American League batting champion Bill Mueller’s Missouri State career walks record with 160 and former National League Rookie of the Year and MVP Ryan Howard’s freshman home run record with 20. Bogenpohl was quickly assigned to the Phillies’ Low-A affiliate, the Clearwater Threshers, after his selection in the draft. He has since put up a respectable .742 OPS with two home runs and 11 RBIs in 72 at-bats before being placed
on the seven-day injured list on Aug. 31. Missouri State has produced plenty of major league talent, with Bogenpohl becoming the 123rd pick in program history. Former Missouri State Bear and current Atlanta Braves catcher Drake Baldwin won the NL Rookie of the Year award in 2025 and earned an all-star appearance this year. Bogenpohl and Baldwin did not get to play together at Missouri State. Baldwin was drafted in 2022 before Bogenpohl made his collegiate debut, but Bogenpohl had high praise for the All-Star. “I’ve gotten to know Drake [Baldwin],” Bogenpohl said. “Talked to him a couple times over the years and he’s a super good dude.” Bogenpohl also said he can use former Missouri State teammates and 2025 draftees Nick Rodriguez and Jake McCutcheon to lean on as he finds his footing in the minor leagues. “Just talking to them, getting a feel of the layout of pro ball and what to expect,” Bogenpohl said. “Definitely got some dudes in my corner that are looking out for me and are gonna help me transition to pro ball.” Missouri State baseball head coach Joey Hawkins had high praise for Bogenpohl and his contributions during his time with the Bears. “[Bogenpohl] came through our system. I think that’s what we’re most proud of,” Hawkins said. “A kid from our state came to the best program in the state to develop and get better and get an opportunity, and he took full advantage of it. We’re extremely proud of him.”
Christopher Nolan’s film adaptation of Homer’s “The Odyssey”, starring Matt Damon, hit theaters all over the world, and those of us partial to the original story were asking the million-dollar question: Can they pull it off? Will it stay true to Homer’s masterwork? There were a couple of glaring differences to start, the most interesting of which was the absence of any of the Olympians besides Athena’s occasional appearances to Odysseus. In the original story, the Olympian gods play a gigantic role in Odysseus’ journey. In fact, the story opens with the Olympians debating his fate. However, in the movie, the only Olympian to have a physical manifestation was Athena, played by Zendaya. Instead, Nolan opted to show the other Olympians through the manifestations of their power, like the storms. The removal of the dialogue between Odysseus and Polyphemus was another intriguing contrast between the movie and book. The famous exchange in which Odysseus tells Polyphemus that his name is “Nobody” is nowhere in sight. However, the scenes with Polyphemus are still impressively chilling. Indeed, we watch Polyphemus eat one of the soldiers, which lends those scenes the dread and terror of a horror movie. The absence of Odysseus and Penelope’s bed was also notable. In the original story, Odysseus builds their bed around an olive tree, symbolizing their eternal love. This is how Penelope finally recognizes her husband, since he and Penelope are the only ones who knew this. However, in the movie, there is no mention of the bed. Instead, Penelope gives him a figure of Athena to carry with him, which is how she recognizes him. The scenes on Circe’s island, however, are a particularly powerful depiction of the original story, although not a bar-for-bar copy. Samantha Morton is a standout as Circe, giving a chilling portrayal of Circe’s powers and her contempt for the men’s greediness. One of the most subtle yet extremely powerful moments in the movie was Circe quietly humming “back into your disguises” as she reversed the curse that she put on the men, which turned them into pigs. The most moving additional moments were
Screenshot from IMDb the scenes showing Odysseus’s regret after seizing Troy. In particular, this is shown in the scene where Odysseus is talking to Penelope shortly before the trial. There is flashback to Odysseus watching as the soldiers desecrate the temple of Athena. He then has a vision of Athena herself begging them to stop them as they cut her head off. This was a valuable addition because it emphasizes his humanity. The most extraordinary part, however, was Nolan’s devotion to practical effects. Polyphemus was, in fact, a 60-foot-tall puppet accompanied in real time by the voice of Bill Irwin. When Circe turns the men into pigs, the filmmakers used a combination of clay and animatronics. They also used real ships and built a real Trojan horse. Overall, this movie was an impressive feat of adaptation. While there were several points where the movie strayed from the original story, as with most screen adaptations, it stayed true in the broad strokes, and it felt like it flowed well. The acting was phenomenal, with veterans such as Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway and Charlize Theron proving their worth yet again. Overall, I would rate this movie about an eight out of 10.
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It’s Family Weekend!
Mo State plans three days of fun for the fam HARPER ADAMS Junior Reporter
For students, Family Weekend means having familiar faces on campus. For families, it means getting to see where their student has been spending their time, who their friends are and what they have been involved in during their time as a Bear. This year, Missouri State has a variety of events and activities planned.
All Weekend
Family Weekend will officially kick off at 8 a.m. on Friday, Sept.18, at the Missouri State bookstore. Family members can purchase their Missouri State merchandise, or “BearWear,” at a 20% discount on everything in the store. Families are encouraged to take a photo of their BearWear for a chance to be featured on the university’s website. The bookstore will be open on Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The official Family Weekend check-in and information desk will be open from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, and 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Saturday at the Plaster Student Union in the Grand Ballroom on the third floor. Guests can pick up their tickets for the weekend’s remaining events. The first 300 families to visit the desk will also receive a free goodie bag. After checking in, head over to the Foster Recreation Center’s open house for families to take advantage of its amenities. Some of these amenities include: a swimming pool, weightlifting equipment and rock-climbing wall. Visitors will need to sign a waiver at the FRC’s front desk before participating. The open house will run from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. For those looking to get off campus, the Downtown Springfield Association along with the Springfield Regional Arts Council will be
Photo by MSU Creative Services Tailgating is a highlight of Family Weekend. The football game begins at 5:30 p.m. Saturday. bringing back the annual Cider Days on Historic Walnut Street. The festival will feature local businesses, live performances, food, artists and crafters, as well as its signature apple cider. Tickets are $5, and can be purchased on Downtown Springfield’s website. The event will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday
and Sunday. Throughout the weekend, families are encouraged to visit the “Field of Memories” exhibit on the PSU’s North Mall. The exhibit is a visual display featuring flags to represent the approximate 1,100 suicides that occur on college campuses across the U.S. throughout the
year. This is a free exhibit, with the goal of being a conversation starter between students, friends and families. At all times during the weekend, the Missouri State Family Association is teaming up with the campus food pantry – The Bear Pantry – to collect donations. The Bear Pantry serves
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Photo by MSU Creative Services The Pride Band performs in BearFest Village during Family Weeekend in 2024. the Missouri State student body year-round by providing food to students who do not have access to proper nutrition on their own. Items needed include pasta, soup, canned fruit, condiments and dressings, grains (rice, quinoa and oats), shampoo and conditioner. Donation bins will be located across campus all weekend, including at athletic events.
Friday, Sept. 18
Stop by the Meyer Library at 10:30 a.m. for “Donuts with Dean Dave.” At this event, attendees will have the opportunity to meet library dean Dave Richards, and learn about all of the services the Meyer Library has to offer for students. On Friday evening, join the Student Activities Council, Family Association and MSU bookstore for BearWear Bingo in the PSU theater. Participants will have a chance to win several items from the Missouri State bookstore at no cost. Seating for this event will be on a first-come, first-served basis. Bingo will begin
at 7 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 19
The second day of Family Weekend will begin with a welcome brunch hosted by the Missouri State Parent and Family Programs in the PSU’s grand ballroom. Please note that this is a ticketed event and is currently sold out. Those who are already signed up will be able to meet university administrators and members of the Career Center after a short program at 9:30. This is a come-and-go event, open from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. If you are still looking for a breakfast spot, then look no further than local Springfield coffee shop, Potter’s House. The coffee shop will be offering $1 off their signature drink, the Oreo mudslide, from 9 a.m. to noon. Groups will also have the opportunity to have a family photo taken, with a free digital download available. On campus, Magers Health and Wellness Center will be offering a Family Weekend Mini DeStress Fest. The event will feature free chair
massages and yoga. Parents are also welcome to get to know the staff at Magers, and learn more about the resources that are offered to students. Light refreshments will be available. Families are required to sign up for this event on the provided SignUpGenius. This event is currently full, but spots will reopen if cancellations are made. Missouri State’s Traditions Council and Parent and Family Programs organization will be hosting Bear Family Tailgate. This event is currently sold out. Visitors who have already bought tickets can visit BearFest Village from 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. to enjoy performances from the Pride Band, get free food and drinks and cheer on the Bears football team as they take the field. Families are welcome to bring their own coolers, and it is recommended to bring chairs, as the area will be crowded. The tailgate will lead into the weekend’s biggest event — the Bears football team’s third game of the season, where they will face off against Marshall. Kickoff is at 5:30 p.m. at
Plaster Stadium. Tickets can be purchased on the Missouri State Athletics website.
Sunday, Sept. 20
The Foster Recreation Center is hosting the third annual Inspire the Roar 5K. This is a fun run or walk through Missouri State’s campus. Families are welcome to bring strollers and well-behaved dogs. All participants will receive a commemorative t-shirt, snacks and a recovery zone at the end of the race. Top finishers will receive awards. To participate, racers must register in advance, and visit the FRC on Friday from 3 to 7 p.m., or Sunday from 6:30 to 7:30 a.m. to pick up a packet. The race will begin at 8 a.m. on Sunday at the FRC. To close out the weekend, Dining Services will offer a Sparkling Sunday Brunch. Families can come to Blair-Shannon dining hall to say goodbye to their student, and enjoy a variety of brunch foods. Tickets for this event can be purchased at the door, and are $10.75 each.
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Your guide to the midterms
Qthestandard_msu | THE-STANDARD.ORG Illustration by Ruby Knight
RUBY KNIGHT Reporter Qrubyrknight
JENNA ADAMS Junior Reporter With so many contested issues making headlines in Missouri, it can be hard to keep track. Not to worry: The Standard has compiled this handy guide to the issues on the ballot this Nov. 3. All quoted ballot language can be found at sos.mo.gov/petitions/2026ballotmeasures.
How do I register to vote?
Visit sos.mo.gov The last day to register is Oct. 7. Looking for more resources? Visit the Paws to the Polls website: publicaffairs.missouristate.edu/PTTP.
Where do I vote?
The Missouri secretary of state provides an online tool that allows voters to check their voter registration and find their voting location. At press time, the locations for the November election were not available through this system. The tool is available at https://voteroutreach.sos.mo.gov/ portal. In recent elections, the Davis-Harrington Welcome Center on the MSU campus has been used as a “central polling location,” meaning that all Greene County voters can vote there. Voters registered in other counties would need to vote in their home county or vote by absentee ballot.
taining to a separate lawsuit. This order barred Hoskins from using any map other than the 2025 version for the November election. However, the U.S. Supreme Court rejected the new map again on Sept. 10. As of this writing, the map that was approved after the 2022 census will be used. Proposition A asks Missouri voters to approve or disapprove the 2025 congressional map. A “yes” vote will approve the 2025 version of the map, redrawing the congressional district boundaries. A “no” vote will leave the 2022 version of the map intact, and the congressional district boundaries will stay the same.
Amendment 3
For Amendment 3, a “yes” vote would change the Missouri Constitution to remove the amendment approved by voters in 2024, which provided reproductive healthcare rights, including abortion past fetal Proposition A viability. Voting “no” will leave the The subject matter of this ballot 2024 amendment intact. measure has garnered considerable attention recently, with the battle over Amendment 6 the congressional map escalating to For Amendment 6, voting “yes” the United States Supreme Court. would stop people’s elected represenShortly after Supreme Court Justice tatives from directly amending or Brett Kavanaugh declined to hear the changing any law that the people case, U.S. District Judge Stephen proposed. Voting “no” would not Clark issued a restraining order per- change the current constitutional
laws, which already give citizens the cording to Ballotpedia. right to propose new laws and apVoting “no” will not change the prove, reject, or overturn current laws. Missouri Constitution. Current Missouri law provides for county sheriffs Amendment 7 to serve four-year terms, and their If Amendment 7 passes, the Mis- duties and removal will remain in souri Constitution will be changed to effect unless changed by law. create a permanent fund that will support the state government instead Elected Officials of taxing Missouri residents, ban the Parties and their corresponding General Assembly from spending the candidates are listed in alphabetical money for other purposes, and re- order. move state-imposed taxes once the fund has enough money to replace Missouri 7th Congressional District them. Voting “yes” will change the MisDemocrat - Missi Hesketh souri Constitution to create the Libertarian - Kevin Craig “Show-Me Prosperity Fund,” a perRepublican - Eric Burlison (inmanent fund to support the state gov- cumbent) ernment with the goal of removing state-imposed taxes without weaken- Missouri Court of ing the real value of the fund’s prin- Appeals Southern District cipal. Voting “no” will not change the This is a retention election, meanMissouri Constitution. ing voters will approve or disapprove Matt Hamner and Bryan Nickell to Amendment 8 retain their seats. Voting “yes” on Amendment 8 will change the Missouri Constitution Missouri State Auditor to require counties to elect a sheriff Democrat - Quentin Wilson every four years, which is currently Libertarian - Dustin Coffell Republican - Scott Fitzpatrick required by law. It will also require “the election of county sheriffs in (incumbent) most counties, establishing sheriffs as the chief law enforcement officers Missouri State Supreme in those counties, and limiting the Court removal of sheriffs from office,” acThis is a retention election, mean-
ing voters will approve or disapprove Judge Paul C. Wilson to retain his seat.
Missouri State Senate District 30
Because the incumbent Sen. Lincoln Hough is terming out, this is an open race. Democrat - Betsy Fogle Libertarian - Cecil Ince Republican - Melanie Stinnett
Missouri State House District 132
Hammons House, Hutchens House, Kentwood Hall, Sunvilla Tower, Scholars House, and Greek Row are in this district. Democrat - Jeremy Dean (incumbent) Republican - Russ Gosselin
Missouri State House District 135
Blair-Shannon House, Freudenberger House, Heitz House, Monroe Apartments, Wells House, and Woods House are in this district. Betsy Fogle is this seat’s incumbent, but she is not seeking reelection and is running for the state Senate seat listed above. Democrat - Johnny Chiles Republican - Michael Hasty
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