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CEDAR FALLS, IA

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2026

VOLUME 123, ISSUE 10

‘The best UNI president in history’ President Mark Nook announces retirement after nearly a decade

Courtesy Photo/InsideUNI Mark Nook, the 11th UNI president, and his wife, Cheryl Nook, in front of Seerley Hall.

By Lily Munnik

Executive Editor

niversity of Northern Iowa President Mark Nook announced on Friday, Oct. 23, that he plans to retire in July 2027, bringing his nearly decade-long presidency to a close. Nook, who has served as UNI’s 11th president since February 2017, shared the news via campus-wide email, reflecting on his time at the university and the relationships he and his wife, Cheryl, have built throughout the years. A tireless advocate of the Panther spirit and a visible presence on campus, Nook led the university through tough times, like the COVID-19 pandemic, budget cuts and challenges, but also through the triumphant moments presented by history. During his stint, he elevated the university’s impact on students and communities and achieved national recognition. Nook led the year-long celebration of the university’s sesquicentennial milestone, paying

homage to the institution’s legacy and envisioning and planning its future. A fundraising campaign, eight years in the making and focused on ensuring the sustainability of the school’s future, culminated in a record-breaking $342,842,222 in 2026. UNI was named the No. 1 public regional university in the Midwest by the U.S. News and World Report’s Best Colleges in 2026, another first for UNI under Nook. A program to recruit students from neighboring states has helped bolster enrollment, ending a slide in enrollment and bringing this fall’s class total to 9,366. In his announcement, Nook emphasized the strong sense of community that initially drew him and Cheryl to Cedar Falls. “That strong tradition of community drew us to the University of Northern Iowa ten years ago,” Nook said. “It is also what makes it difficult to let you know that we plan to retire next July.”

Nook said that he is working with the Iowa Board of Regents to ensure a smooth transition and said he would continue serving the university until UNI’s next president is selected. For Nook and Cheryl, retirement will bring an opportunity to spend more time with their family, particularly their several grandchildren. “In many ways, we feel like most of our soon-tobe graduates as they enter their final semester,” said Nook. “We are about to leave a place where we have built so many wonderful relationships, a place we love, a place we call home.” He also added, “The opportunity to spend more time with our family is exciting, and while we will never leave the Panther family, we are looking forward to exchanging our current titles for those of Grandma Cheryl and Grandpa Mark.” See NOOK, page 2

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NEWS OCTOBER 28, 2026 |

NORTHERNIOWAN.COM

LILY MUNNIK Executive Editor

VOLUME 123, ISSUE 10

NOOK

continued from page 1

A decade of leading the university Nook became UNI’s 11th president in early 2017 after being selected for the position the previous December. Before coming to Cedar Falls, he served as chancellor of Montana State University Billings. Originally from Holstein, Iowa, Nook earned his bachelor’s degree in physics and mathematics from Southwest Minnesota State University in 1980. He later earned a master’s degree in astrophysics from Iowa State University in 1983 and a doctorate in astronomy from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1990. Throughout his presidency, Nook has overseen changes to UNI’s academic offerings and helped guide the university through a period of growth and transition. “There’s always so much focus on what happens when a particular leaders here … but the work is done by the entire campus,” said Nook in an interview last year with the Northern Iowan. “People know who I am, but the work is really done by so many other people.” In an InsideUNI article announcing his retirement, Iowa Board of Regents President Robert Cramer highlighted the work Nook has done to expand higher education in Iowa. “Under President Nook’s leadership, the university developed an innovative partnership with Iowa’s community colleges that provides place-bound students the opportunity to earn a bachelor’s degree from UNI from any of our 99 counties,” said Cramer. Katie Mulholland, who served on the Iowa Board of Regents from 2011 to 2017 and co-chaired the presidential search committee that selected Nook, also commented on his leadership. “The University of Northern Iowa has been extremely fortunate that President Nook has helped guide our institution through a transformative period over the past decade,” said Mulholland in the InsideUNI article. Panther community reacts to the announcement Following Friday’s morning announcement, students, alumni and faculty almost instantly shared their reactions and memories of Nook’s presidency.

Northern Iowa Student Government President Gabriel Salazar described the announcement as bittersweet, reflecting on the impact the Nooks have had on the campus community. “Mark and Cheryl have been a staple of UNI’s campus and are just as recognizable as TK and TC,” he said. “We are incredibly thankful for the Nook family, as they have given a lot to UNI.” Salazar encouraged the campus community to also use the remainder of Nook’s presidency as an opportunity to reflect on his contributions and celebrate his time at UNI. “I look forward to the rest of the time we get with the Nook family this year, and I am beyond excited for their next step of spending time with their grandchildren,” said Salazar. “What better way to finish our celebration of 150 years than to celebrate the best UNI president in history.” Former NISG Senator Tanner Filip, who served from 2016 to 2017, shared a memory of meeting Nook shortly after he was appointed as UNI’s president. “I remember meeting Dr. Nook at an NISG meeting shortly after he was appointed. My first impression was, ‘this guy is a dork in all the best ways,’” wrote Filip on Instagram. “It’s been great to see that it hasn’t changed since then. It’s genuinely heartwarming to see a leader that even the students are so fond of.” Recent spring graduate Maddie Brouwer also reflected on her experiences with Nook, writing on Instagram, “Some of my favorite memories include President Nook. Wishing you nothing but the best.” The appreciation extends beyond students and alumni, as UNI communication and media professor Nichole Harken recognized the contributions of both Mark and Cheryl on LinkedIn. “I love how President Nook used ‘we plan to retire’ in the email. Cheryl has been such an integral part of our campus and loving students. They are the real deal and will be missed,” said Harken. “Thank you, Nooks, for your service, commitment, integrity, and excellence.” Pete Moris from UNI’s University Relations

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Department shared a statement of gratitude for the Nooks’ contributions to campus as well. “Our campus community owes them a debt of gratitude for helping so many individuals thrive during their time in Cedar Falls,” he said. “Thank you to Mark and Cheryl for helping make the University of Northern Iowa an even better place as the institution embarks on its next 150 years.” Looking toward UNI’s next chapter Nook’s retirement announcement comes as UNI celebrates its 150th anniversary, marking a significant transition in UNI’s history. While the search for UNI’s next president will bring a new leader to campus, Nook emphasized that he and Cheryl will remain committed to the Panther community throughout their remaining time in Cedar Falls. “For Cheryl and me, it is one of the greatest privileges of our lives to serve the people of Iowa and in particular the students, alumni, faculty and staff of the University of Northern Iowa,” said Nook in the InsideUNI announcement. “Thank you to the Panther family and the people of Iowa for the confidence you have placed in us.” Although their time leading the university is coming to a close, the couple made it clear that their connection to UNI will continue long after retirement. As Nook put it best, they “will never leave the Panther Family.”

Courtesy Photo/UNI Mark Nook with students at the Sesquicentennial Bell Ringing on Sept. 29, 2025.

NORTHERN IOWAN

Courtesy Photo/UNI Mark Nook hugging a recent graduate at the May 2026 graduation ceremony.

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NEWS

LILY MUNNIK Executive Editor

OCTOBER 28, 2026 |

NORTHERNIOWAN.COM

VOLUME 123, ISSUE 10

Students persevere through stress, homesickness By Alexa Farrell Staff Writer

With the semester now halfway through, students can be feeling all sorts of emotions, from midterm stress to confidence in their coping strategies and their place here. Regardless of age and other factors, homesickness can also be a struggle for many. “Feeling homesick is completely normal,” wrote Megan Cahalan, UNI health promotion coordinator and wellness coach, in a virtual interview. While anyone can be homesick, Cahalan noted that homesickness is often seen most in first-year students, out-of-state students and international students. She also said that students generally start to get homesick around the fourth week of the semester.

opportunity to get away from everything at home,” Mitchell said. “So it’s a positive experience.” Freshman Fisher Ferkett said he also would not consider his experience homesickness, because he missed his dog and his friends, but “not necessarily the location itself.” “Surround yourself with people who make you feel at home,” Ferkett advised. To overcome homesickness, Cahalan recommends things like calling family or friends, joining a student organization to find like-minded people or bringing something from home to school. What works can be different for everyone.

Graphic/Alexa Farrell

“Most of the welcome week festivities have ended and they are now fully immersed in school work, dictating their own schedule for the first time,” she wrote. Homesickness can be especially likely for students who live farther away and cannot see their families and for students who do see their families on breaks and then return to school. Senior Kassidy Otto, majoring in public health, said she now lives at home, but felt homesick in years past. “If my sisters sent me a picture of them doing something together, then I would get homesick or fear of missing out (FOMO),” she said. Being homesick is normal, but being away from home can be different for everyone. Freshman Kaylin Mitchell said she has missed people and places, but not necessarily her hometown. “I feel like college is for me an

Cahalan also said that homesickness and academic stress, which can be more high or likely during midterms and finals, are “interconnected.” “We see students that have trouble concentrating and often procrastinate their academics when they are missing home,” Cahalan wrote. She highlighted that the cycle can go both ways. “When a student is overwhelmed, they may feel more homesick because they don’t have the people they love and confide in close to them.” She said homesickness can cause symptoms like intense emotions and difficulty focusing on classes. Stress can cause all sorts of challenges too, like headaches, irritability, forgetfulness and more. Some students feel extra stressed during midterm season, while others said they feel just as stressed (or not stressed) as usual. Sophomore Emma Retallick said

she has felt more stressed during midterms. “One week, it was so bad that I couldn’t even focus on anything,” Retallick said. “My brain was so focused on studying and almost being perfect.” On the other hand, Mitchell, a psychology major, said she feels less stressed at school, at least in some ways. “Honestly, a lot of stressors I had at home were my home life, so coming here and not having all those stressors and it only being school as my stressor? I think I’m okay.” Mitchell said she still puts pressure on herself, though, especially because she is paying for her education. Yet, she believes she would still be somewhat stressed regardless of who is footing the bill. “Even if my parents were paying for it or my grandparents, I think I would still be stressed,” Mitchell said. “This is an education. You are paying for it. If you don’t take it seriously, that is on you and you’re only hurting you.” With the stress that can come from homesickness, midterms and academic pressure overall, self-inflicted or otherwise, each student needs ways to cope that work for them. “I feel like calling my mom always helps and also, going on walks and getting away from my computer for a little bit. Actually, just, taking time to myself,” Retallick, an elementary education major, said. Ferkett, a music education major, said that the week may be more busy or stressful not just because of midterms, but due to homecoming week immediately before. Although he said he does not let stress affect him, he has coping strategies similar to Retallick’s. “If I feel like I can’t get my schoolwork done on my computer, then I might just change it up and go to a practice room to practice my music. I might just go for a walk on campus, just take a 10-minute break,” Ferkett said. “I feel like 10 minutes of not working can make the next 30

Courtesy Photo/UNI Student Wellness Megan Cahalan is the UNI health promotion coordinator and wellness coach.

minutes a lot more productive.” Mitchell said she likes to give herself rewards for completing tasks to keep herself going. “Having something to hold off on and look forward to if you do this thing, it really works for me,” Mitchell said. “I do it a lot, like every single day.” To combat stress, Cahalan recommends that students find what studying strategies work for them and utilize The Learning Center support located in Rod Library, Success Coaching at Student Success & Retention in Gilchrist and Wellness Coaching located at 109 Maucker Union, which is covered under students’ mandatory health fee. Homesickness and stress are completely normal. Each individual may experience and overcome them differently. Ferkett said he has not let homesickness affect him because he lives in the moment. Mitchell advises the same thing. “Remember that this is you stepping out on your own and being your own person,” Mitchell said. “You need to take that time and really live in this moment, cause you’re not going to get these years back.”

What the newly established Humanities Hub means for students By Zach Mineart Spanish Editor

As students approach their final years of college, life beyond the classroom becomes imminent, and students often find themselves thinking about what they will do once they graduate. For many, gaining professional experience while in school is a crucial step in their educational journey. Some students take an internship to apply their classroom learning in the real world, while others take it to get the workplace experience before they walk the stage and enter the next chapter of their life. The recently established Humanities Hub at UNI, made possible by a five-year $2.4 million grant from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, provides students majoring in History, Languages & Literatures, Communication & Media and Philosophy & World Religions with paid internship opportunities while they complete their degree.

“The Humanities Hub idea was born as a result of our sense that we could help students navigate the potential pathways that their degree opened up,” said Dr. Jennifer McNabb, the History department head and one of the two faculty members who proposed the idea of the Humanities Hub. This program puts students’ needs at the forefront, focusing on professional development and paying students for the work that they do with these different businesses. In the past, humanities students who have had internships might not have been paid or have been underpaid, and the Humanities Hub aims to give a paid internship to humanities students as well as professional development resources and opportunities so these students enter the workforce prepared. “Humanities students generally don’t have a

lot of career readiness, professional development or internships built into their curriculum,” said Jess Cruz, the Humanities Hub coordinator. “Having that support and [professional] experience by the time that you graduate just sets you up to be more employable and takes away some of the anxiety of what life is going to look like after graduation.” Entering college at 18 years old and having to decide what you want to do for the rest of your life can be daunting, and the first thing you try might not be the right fit. A main goal of the Humanities Hub is to provide these experiences to students so they can decide if their original plan is something they still want to pursue.

Read more online at NORTHERNIOWAN.COM

PAGE 6

NEWS OCTOBER 28, 2026 |

NORTHERNIOWAN.COM

LILY MUNNIK Executive Editor

VOLUME 123, ISSUE 10

2026 midterm election voter guide By Lily Munnik

Executive Editor

U.S. Senate - The U.S. Senate helps write federal laws and approves presidential appointments, serving six-year terms. Ashley Hinson (Republican): Hinson is a U.S. representative for Iowa’s 2nd Congressional District and a former Iowa state legislator. Hinson advocates for stronger border security and stricter immigration enforcement, as well as banning members of Congress from trading individual stocks. Josh Turek (Democrat): Turek is an Iowa state representative and a Paralympic gold medalist in wheelchair basketball. He has advocated for disability rights, restored Medicaid funding, and expanding the Affordable Care Act. Thomas Laehn (Libertarian): Laehn serves as Greene County attorney in Iowa. His campaign emphasizes eliminating federal personal income taxes and decriminalizing marijuana. U.S. House of Representatives - Members of the House serve two-year terms and represent their congressional districts in Washington, D.C. Joe Mitchell (Republican): Mitchell is a former Iowa state representative who was elected to the Iowa House at age 21. He supports increasing funding for ICE and Border Patrol and establishing congressional term limits. Lindsay James (Democrat): James is an Iowa state representative from Dubuque and an ordained

Polling sites for students registered to vote at their on-campus address: Bender Hall, Dancer Hall Hearst Center for the Arts 304 West Seerley Blvd.

Hagemann, Lawther, Noehren, Panther Village, Rider, Shull UNI Gilchrist Hall 2700 Campus St.

Roth Apartments & Jennings Court Apartments Bethlehem Lutheran Church 4000 Hudson Road

Trailside Apartments Cedar Valley Unitarian Universalists 9204 University Ave.

Polls in Iowa are open Nov. 3 from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. minister. She supports protecting public school funding and reversing federal Medicaid funding cuts. Rick Stewart (Libertarian): Stewart is an Iowa political candidate who has previously run for statewide office. His platform has emphasized individual freedoms and criminal justice reform. Dave Bushaw (Independent): Bushaw is a first-generation farmland owner whose previous occupation was serving as a community organizer. His campaign focuses on universal healthcare and supporting the working class. Governor and Lieutenant Governor - The Governor leads Iowa’s executive branch, signs or vetoes legislation and oversees state agencies. The lieutenant governor serves alongside the governor Zach Lahn (Republican): Lahn is a farmer, businessman and co-founder of an investment firm and a private school. His campaign emphasizes increasing out-of-state institutional investors and data centers and funding conservation practices to improve water quality. Derek Wulf (Republican): Wulf is an Iowa state representative and fourth-generation farmer. He has chaired the Iowa

House Agriculture Committee and worked on legislation related to farming and rural communities. Rob Sand (Democrat): Sand is Iowa’s current state auditor and a former assistant attorney general. His campaign emphasizes increasing general state aid to public schools, addressing Iowa’s high cancer rates and interest-free assistance for first-time homebuyers. Dave Muhlbauer (Democrat): Muhlbauer is a fifth-generation Iowa farmer and Crawford County supervisor. His experience in politics focuses on rural communities and agriculture. Iowa Secretary of State - The secretary of state oversees Iowa elections and voter registration. Paul Pate (Republican): Pate is Iowa’s incumbent secretary of state and former state senator and Cedar Rapids mayor. His campaign has focused on voter identification requirements and election administration. Ryan Peterman (Demo-

crat): Peterman’s campaign has focused on election administration and voter access. Iowa Auditor of State - The state auditor examines government finances and reviews how public money is spent. Chris Cournoyer (Republican): Cournoyer is Iowa’s lieutenant governor and a former state senator. Taylor Wettach (Democrat): Wettach is an attorney running for state auditor.

Iowa Treasurer of State - The treasurer manages state funds and financial programs. Roby Smith (Republican): Smith is Iowa’s incumbent treasurer and a former state senator.

statewide office.

Mike Naig (Republican): Naig is Iowa’s incumbent secretary of agriculture and previously served as deputy secretary. Chris Jones (Democrat): Jones is a retired University of Iowa research engineer and water-quality researcher. Iowa Attorney General - The attorney general is Iowa’s chief legal officer and represents the state in legal matters. Brenna Bird (Republican): Bird is Iowa’s incumbent attorney general and a former Guthrie County attorney. Nate Willems (Democrat): Willems is an attorney and former Iowa state representative. Iowa House of Representatives Drew Stensland (Democrat): Stensland is a Cedar Falls native, a 2019 University of Northern Iowa graduate and former UNI student body president. He has worked in the Iowa State Auditor’s Office for six years. He is running unopposed. Black Hawk County Board of Supervisors Kamyar Enshayan (Democrat): Enshayan is a former Cedar Falls City Council member and the former director of UNI’s Center for Energy & Environmental Education. He is running unopposed. Black Hawk County Treasurer Lynda Hintzman (Republican): Hintzman is the incumbent county treasurer, handling property tax collections and other county financial responsibilities. Black Hawk County Recorder Sandie L. Smith (Democrat): Smith is the incumbent county recorder, maintaining public records and other official documents.

John Norwood (Democrat): Norwood has a background in business and public policy and has previously sought

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture - The secretary oversees agricultural policy, soil and water conservation programs and the state’s agricultural economy.

Black Hawk County Attorney Brian John Williams (Democrat): Williams is the incumbent Black Hawk County attorney, prosecuting criminal cases and representing the county in certain legal proceedings.

See sample ballot at NORTHERNIOWAN.COM

FAITH VANDENBERG

OPINION

News Editor

OCTOBER 28, 2026 |

NORTHERNIOWAN.COM

PAGE 7

VOLUME 123, ISSUE 10

Is ‘Psych’ the most underrated crime procedural? By Theo Trimble Staff Writer

In 1951, the genre of police procedural took off with the show “Dragnet,” showcasing a pair of police officers who solved a different crime each episode. The show grew in popularity immediately, reaching number two in the ratings, right behind “I Love Lucy.” It set the bar for future procedural shows, establishing the formula we still see in the genre. With shows like “Criminal Minds,” “The Wire” and “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation,” it can be challenging to keep track of all the detective-themed programs that grace our screens. But beneath the most popular programs lies an almost hidden gem, one that didn’t make it to the same level as the rest. “Psych” premiered on July 7, 2006, on the USA Network, giving the world a new spin on the police procedural. Created by director and writer Steve Franks, the show follows fake psychic Shawn Spencer and his best friend, Burton “Gus” Guster, as they solve crimes in Santa Barbara, the so-called “murder capital of the world.” In an interview with Forbes, Franks talked about his relationship with USA Network and how the show became as crazy as we know it today. “In the first season, we got a lot of pushback — they wanted more mystery, crime and ‘stakes’ — we wanted all that stuff to connect, but it was more important to create a world and the characters and the comedy. After a couple of

seasons, they realized this was what we were doing,” said Franks. Episodes such as “Last Night Gus,” “Office Space” and “Psych: The Musical” showcased how wacky the writers and producers were willing to go in terms of plot and setting. With new locations, characters and murders for each episode, it was easy to come up with original ideas that wouldn’t bore viewers. It’s been five years since “Psych 3: This Is Gus,” and fans still hope for a rebooted series or fourth movie installment. Franks is still up and ready to write the next movie, saying, “If they called tonight and said, ‘Get writing,’ I’d say, ‘I’ll see you next week and pitch that to you,’” said Franks in an Entertainment Weekly article. The main heart of the show comes from the chemistry of lead actors James Roday Rodriguez (Shawn Spencer) and Dulé Hill (Burton Guster). The duo is a comedic twist on another famous detective pair: Sherlock Holmes and Dr. John Watson. Spencer takes the deductive reasoning skills and leadership of Holmes, while Gus implements the medical knowledge and more “straight man” role in the couple. The relationship between the childhood friends drives the story, along with the comedic relief, as the two bounce off each other and argue over mundane topics like movies, TV shows or who killed whom in a murder case. Each episode is jam-packed with pop culture

Courtesy Photo/IMDb James Roday Rodriguez and Dulé Hill in “Psych” (2006).

references, mostly from Spencer’s foolish nicknames he gives his partner, such as Galileo Humpkins, Sh’Dynasty or Radio Star (your video will kill him). Episodes like “Dual Spires” and “Heeeeere’s Lassie!” were directly inspired by popular media such as “Twin Peaks” and “The Shining.” Although the relationship between Spencer and Guster fuels the story, “Psych” wouldn’t be the same without its several silly side characters, especially in the Santa Barbara Police Department. Timothy Omundson perfectly encapsulates the serious but quirky personality of Carlton “Lassie” Lassiter, while Maggie Lawson brings a passionate and charming personality to Juliet O’Hara. The former police officer and father to Spencer, Henry Spencer, is played by Corbin

Bernson, who showcases the tough love he has for his son perfectly. On the other side, Kirsten Nelson portrays Chief of Police Karen Vick with the perfect balance of both authority and kindness. In the later seasons, Kurt Fueller plays the kooky coroner Woody Strode. Speaking of pop culture references, the show has no shortage of celebrity cameos, with appearances such as Tim Curry, John Cena and William Shatner blessing our screens. Even the prominent Yang Killer is played by Ally Sheedy of “The Breakfast Club” fame. Throughout the years, “Psych” has seemed to fizzle out from the public eye, despite how much content has been produced, garnering eight seasons, three movies, five books, a musical and an animated spin-off series. With all this wonderful coverage,

what could have dragged it down from the placement it deserved? Around the time “Psych” began airing, USA Network was also working on shows like “Monk” and “Burn Notice,” two more dramatic shows that fed into what the audience wanted for the time of the 2000s grunge. The show was rejected by several wellknown networks, such as Fox and ABC, before being picked up by USA, a network that wasn’t the most popular with Americans. When I meet someone who has also seen “Psych,” both of us tend to have the same positive opinion of it, being that it’s a fun show with a multitude of highlights in different areas. But the number of fans is low, too low for how much content and humor is packed within each episode.

‘Clayface’: The DCU’s new horrific, yet understandable villain By Jocelyn Loveless Staff Writer

DC fans across the US packed the theatres on Oct. 23 to welcome a new villain to the Detective Comics (DC) cinematic universe. “Clayface” was directed by James Watkins and produced by James Gunn, the current father of the DCU. The film currently has a 76% on Rotten Tomatoes. It is the first horror film entry within Gunn’s DCU and it greatly showcases the range of the franchise. Of the horror subgenres, it falls under body horror and does it well. The gradual transformation from movie star Matt Hagan to Clayface is terrifying. Fellow audience members recoiled in their seats as his body contorted throughout the film. Many compared these aspects to fellow modern horror hit: “The Substance.” The effects of the film are fantastic. A mix of practical and CGI was used to create the final product and it genuinely looks real. Practical effects are made using malleable materials while CGI is animated on computer software. Plenty of love and research went into the process, “VFX supervisor Angus Bickerton [tested] out real clay to see how it dried and cracked,” Entertainment Weekly reported. While effects were the film’s strong suit, the writing came into question at times. It was obvious that the writers had more interest or experience in horror and action, as the emotional or everyday writing felt sub par in comparison. The opening act follows Matt Hagan (Tom Rhys Harries) through his rise into stardom and it feels not only rushed but less realistic than the scenes in which

he becomes a literal monster. Which is an odd back and forth for viewers. However, the second half of the film is much more promising. The drama and horror pieces are much more strongly written, and the characters become much more 3D. You begin to feel torn as Matt loses control in vengeance for the life he misses. Each DC entry so far has a deep emotional meaning behind the film. “Superman” (2025) wasn’t just about laser beams and flying, but it was about how we all have the ability to be Superman through kindness and to stand up for what’s right. In return, “Clayface” shows what can happen when you place such high value on what is outside of your control such as love. When you wish to be picked so bad that you lose yourself and are willing to become a completely different person for what you want. One thing it didn’t do well in comparison to other Gunn projects was keeping a consistent aesthetic. In the past, James Gunn has created specific aesthetics for his titles predominantly through music. “Guardians of the Galaxy” is one of the strongest examples out there with a great selection of yacht rock, classic rock, and old love songs. “Clayface” jumps all over the place musically. That’s not to say that the music is bad - by all means the picks are great, however they just don’t fit together well at all. Overall, I give this a 7/10. It’s a good film, but it could’ve been better had there been more care for a consistent flow and pacing.

PAGE 8

MICHAEL SPAHN

SPORTS OCTOBER 28, 2026 |

NORTHERNIOWAN.COM

Sports Editor

VOLUME 123, ISSUE 10

70 straight MVC wins

Photo Courtesy/UNI Athletics

UNI volleyball sets record with conference opponent win streak Reese Booth (6), Cassidy Hartman (2), Maryn Bixby (10) and Calia Clubb (13) celebrate after earning a point in a volleyball match at the McLeod Center.

By Mason Kalkbrenner Sports Writer The University of Northern Iowa volleyball team hosted Evansville on Friday, Oct. 23, and sent the Purple Aces packing with a decisive 3-0 win. The Panthers carried their hot streak into their Saturday matchup against Bradley, sweeping the Braves 3-0 and left the weekend without dropping a set. The win against Bradley marked UNI’s 11th consecutive win over Bradley, and it extended their conference winning streak to 70 matches, a new program and MVC record. “Our teams over the years have done a really good job of just enjoying the journey, trusting the process more than

worrying about winning and losing and I think… that’s what we do,” said Petersen. “Streaks are great but that’s not what our journey is about this year, we want to make it to the NCAA Tournament and do some things there.” Evansville game UNI opened up the weekend with a dominant performance, winning three sets by a margin of 25-17, 25-12 and 25-6 while recording a season-high .422 hitting percentage in the process. The victory improved UNI’s all-time record against Evansville to 63-3. Senior Lily Dykstra led the Panthers with 15 kills, with Cassidy Hartman and Calia Clubb contributing 10 terminations of their own. Setter Reese

Booth added 37 assists to her resume, helping distribute the ball on offense and keep the pace moving forward. UNI capitalized on Evansville’s offensive struggles and displayed a strong defense performance. Maryn Bixby led the team with six blocks, while Jaydn Petersen put up a team-high 16 digs on the day. UNI also accomplished a season-high 14 blocks on the night. Head coach Bobbi Peteren earned her 650th career win on Friday, while UNI as a whole secured the program’s 40th straight season with a winning record in conference play. Bradley game The Panthers continued their strong play going into Sat-

urday against the Braves. UNI defeated Bradley 3-0, with set scores of 25-12, 25-18 and 2516. Hartman delivered a stellar performance against Bradley, finishing the contest with 22 kills. Her performance allowed UNI to control the tempo of the match and secure the victory. Dykstra and Clubb added nine kills apiece, while Booth recorded 39 assists and 18 digs for a double-double. The Panthers ended the day with 51 kills and a .360 hitting percentage. Coach Petersen was very impressed with the play from her attacking unit against the Braves on Saturday. “One stat that I thought was really neat for Saturday was all of our attackers hit

over .350,” said Petersen in her weekly coaches press conference. “If we can keep that balance and that efficiency that’s really going to help us moving forward.” Also during the match, Booth became the 12th player in program history to reach 2,000 career assists. She got to do it against her sister, Hayden Booth, who is a setter for Bradley’s volleyball team, with many family members in attendance. “The family part is the coolest part of that,” said Petersen. “Reese just continues to do great things, so being able to also get that honor at home was pretty cool as well.” UNI will look to stay on their hot streak as they visit Indiana State on Friday.

MICHAEL SPAHN

PAGE 9

SPORTS

Sports Editor

OCTOBER 28, 2026 |

NORTHERNIOWAN.COM

VOLUME 123, ISSUE 10

Men’s basketball ready for new era By Carter Lust Assistant Sports Editor In 2025, the University of Northern Iowa men’s basketball team returned 72% of their minutes from the previous season, leading all NCAA Division I programs. Now, the Panthers return just six players from last year’s NCAA Tournament team, none of whom averaged more than 15 minutes per game. UNI lost its entire 2025-26 starting lineup: Trey Campbell, Max Weisbrod, Leon Bond III, Tristan Smith and Will Hornseth. Campbell, a four-year starter for the Panthers, signed an NBA Summer League contract with the Minnesota Timberwolves but didn’t appear in any contests. Although having graduated from UNI and signed a professional contract, Campbell sought to benefit from the NCAA’s new age-based eligibility rules, which state that “student-athletes who meet all eligibility requirements and enter college no later than the academic year after their 19th birthday generally will have up to five years of eligibility.” Campbell, 22, is part of a group of athletes seeking a fifth year of athletic eligibility after entering college in 2022. This fall, Campbell transferred to the University of Utah even with his playing status in limbo. Weisbrod, 23, is also part of that group after transferring to Northern Illinois University. As of Oct. 20, Campbell and Weisbrod can both suit up this upcoming season. Jon Rothstein of CBS Sports reports that “An injunction was granted in California for the Glancey V. NCAA case, giving all members of the Class of 2022 eligibility through the end of the 2026-27 college basketball season,” unless the NCAA successfully appeals. Although not a senior, Bond III also entered the transfer portal, committing to Iowa State last April. He was the Panthers’ second-leading scorer behind Campbell, averaging 11.9 points per game. After just one season in which he helped Northern Iowa to a Missouri Valley Conference (MVC) Tournament title, Smith signed with Kipina Aanekoski of the Korisliiga, the top Finnish professional basketball league. Hornseth, the Panthers’ anchor down low, followed longtime UNI head

Photo Courtesy/UNI Basketball/Missouri Valley Conference

Geon Hutchins (left) head coach Kyle Green (middle) and Kyle Pock (right) pose with a basketball during the Missouri Valley Conference media day on Oct. 13.

coach Ben Jacobson to Utah State. After two decades at the helm in Cedar Falls, Jacobson moved to Logan, Utah, to lead an Aggie squad that joins the PAC-12 Conference this upcoming season. Jacobson’s departure paved the way for Kyle Green, a former Iowa State assistant coach, to take his place. Green, the father of former UNI star AJ Green, brings in a new group of recruits to help usher in a new era of Panther basketball. Four are on the MVC Preseason Watchlist: Juniors Greyson Uelmen, Tate McCubbin, Isaiah Johnson-Arigu and Ian Smikle. Uelmen, a 6-foot-3-inch guard, earned Second Team All-Summit League honors, conference all-tournament and newcomer team honors in his second season with North Dakota. He averaged 16.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 1.3 steals per game with the Fighting Hawks last year, and enters as the Panthers’ projected leading scorer. He also noted how this new Northern Iowa

squad has potential for great all-around scoring. “We’ve got a lot of good shooters,” Uelmen told Panther Sports Talk. “They space out the floor very well, and it opens up a lot for the drive… our bigs, they do a great job in the short roll; they’re very good at being patient with it and finding the open play.” MuCubbin, a 6-foot-8 guard/forward, averaged 10.1 points, 4.7 rebounds, 0.9 assists and 1.3 steals per game over two seasons at Austin Peay. He was named Atlantic Sun Conference (ASUN) Freshman of the Year in 2024-25 and earned ASUN All-Freshman Team honors that same season. Johnson-Arigu, a 6-foot-7 forward, finished last season at St. Thomas University after initially committing to Iowa after his freshman year with Miami (FL). He averaged 10.5 points, four rebounds and 1.1 assists with the Tommies. “We move the ball extremely well,” Johnson-Arigu also said regarding the Panthers offense. “I feel like we have a

lot of guys who are very unselfish and obviously our defense is top-tier because of Coach Green, and that’s a very good combination.” Smikle, a 6-foot-9 forward, spent two seasons with Tulsa, averaging 4.2 points, 4.5 rebounds and 0.8 assists. He was also named to the 2025 American Conference All-Freshman Team. Green also welcomes Carson Vis from Western Michigan and Jules Isebaert of Belgium to the squad. Additionally, two Cedar Falls natives, Will Gerdes and Jaydon Kimbrough, join UNI after winning a high school state championship with the Tigers last year. Of the six Panthers returning from their 2025-26 roster, Kyle Pock and Geon Hutchins are the most experienced of the bunch. Nevertheless, UNI could see contributions from Cade Courbat, Levi Valdo, Redek Born and Jalen Wilson. Wilson, a 2025 Minnesota Mr. Basketball finalist, redshirted last season and learned the ins and outs of Northern

Iowa’s philosophy. “Defense was kind of our big staple. That was kind of the identity of our team in a way,” Wilson said. “I think this year, defense is going to play an even bigger part… if we can kind of master that and get locked in on that, which we’ve been getting pretty close to, I think that can take us… who knows?” Nobody knows how far the Panthers will go, but fans hope to dance again in March under Green’s leadership. “It’s been an exciting fiveand-a-half months,” Green said at the 2026-27 UNI Men’s Basketball Media Day Press Conference on Oct. 7. “The people in the Cedar Valley are great… it’s hard to believe we are within a month from playing games and getting after it. That I’m excited about.” UNI opens its season with a free-to-attend exhibition against Upper Iowa University at the McLeod Center on Thursday, Oct. 27 at & 7 p.m. CST.

PAGE 10

MICHAEL SPAHN

SPORTS OCTOBER 28, 2026 |

Sports Editor

Men’s golf concludes Club sports season in Des Moines weekend recap

By Cooper Lindaman Sports Writer

The UNI men’s golf team competed in its final tournament of the fall season at the Zach Johnson Invitational on Oct. 19-20, finishing in 13th place with a team score of 906 (+54) over the three rounds of action at Glen Oaks Country Club in West Des Moines. Lindenwood and South Dakota State tied for the team title with a score of 840 (-12), while South Dakota State’s Jake Olson took home the individual

title. Senior Tanner Dinnebier led the way for the Panthers with a top-30 finish. The Des Moines-area native finished with a score of 218 (+5) over three rounds. Dinnebier opened play with a first-round score of 75, before firing off a teambest 69 (-2) in round two. He closed the tournament with a final-round 74, good enough for 29th place. Junior Sam Wahman followed with a score of 224 (+11). The Iowa Western Community College transfer shot a

Photo Courtesy/UNI Athletics

Anthony Galvin attempts a shot at the Bubba Barnett Intercollegiate meet. Galvin took 76th place at the Zack Johnson Invitational.

NORTHERNIOWAN.COM

first-round 74, a second-round 76 before finishing his fall season with a final-round 74. Wahman collected six birdies on his way to a tie for 54th place. Sophomore Davis Tripp finished next for the Panthers, finishing his tournament with a score of 233 (+20), good enough for a tie for 72nd place. The Maple Grove, Minnesota, native shot a first-round 78, followed by a second-round 82. He ended his fall campaign on a high note with a closing-round 73, the second-lowest round of his young career. One stroke behind Tripp, junior Drew Spooner finished the tournament with a score of 234 (+21). Spooner recorded a pair of rounds of 79 on day one, closing his fall with a score of 76 in the final round, ending in a tie for 74th place. Senior Zach McCarty also competed individually for the Panthers, tying teammate Drew Spooner for 74th place with a score of 234(+21). He recorded rounds of 78, 80, and 76. Cedar Falls native Anthony Galvin rounded out the Panthers’ team lineup with a sole share of 76th place. The sophomore recorded a score of 236 (+23), with rounds of 80, 79 and a final round 77. The tournament marks the end of the fall slate for the Panthers, who will resume their season in the spring.

VOLUME 123, ISSUE 10

By Michael Spahn Sports Editor

Rugby Breakdown, Northern Iowa defeated the University of Iowa 62-40 this past weekend.

Many club sports at the University of Northern Iowa competed over the weekend of Oct. 17-18. There were a few clubs that also competed this past weekend on Oct. 24-25.

Baseball club On Oct. 17, the club baseball team lost a double header to the UW School of Engineering.

Men’s soccer club On Oct. 17 men’s soccer defeated Gustavus Adolphus by a score of 7-0. On Oct. 18, they tied 2-2 with Iowa Central Community College. Last weekend the club lost to St. Thomas 4-0 in the National Tournament qualifier. They did not qualify but can still receive an invite to the national tournament. Men’s rugby club Men’s rugby defeated UW-Milwaukee 87-0 on Oct. 17 and earned the title of conference champs. The club was slated to play DePaul on Oct. 24 in Cedar Falls, but earned a 28-0 victory via forfeit, giving them a spot in the semi-finals. DePaul had too many injuries which depleted their team to the point where they had to forfeit. Women’s rugby club On Oct. 17 women’s rugby defeated the University of Minnesota 59-20. According to the

Tennis club The UNI tennis club finished 10th out of 15 teams in the Cyclone Invite last weekend. UNI golf club The golf club played in the national qualifier at Spirit Hollow Golf Club in Burlington, Iowa. The event had teams like Kansas, Iowa, Iowa State, and the University of Wisconsin participating. The team finished 5th and did not advance as a team. Clayton Liddle was a medalist with a total score of 3 over par. Will Steege finished tied for fifth place with a total score of 10 over par. Liddle now has the opportunity to play at nationals if he so chooses after winning the event. Nationals are held at Hot Springs Country Club in Arkansas in April. Women’s soccer club The women’s soccer club lost to St. Ambrose 1-0 this past weekend in their first home game in two years.

UNI Women’s basketball embraces young team By Tyler Wood Sports Writer On Monday, Nov. 2, the University of Northern Iowa women’s basketball program will begin its season against St. Thomas. The Panthers finished fifth in the Missouri Valley Conference last season and are looking to elevate their game to the top. Head coach Tanya Warren is entering her 19th season of coaching UNI women’s basketball, and looks to coach a competitive group this season. Warren’s team retained all but three players from last year and added one more in the transfer portal. Elise Jaeger is returning for her third season as a Panther after averaging 7.8 points per game last season as a sophomore. Jaeger is the only player

on UNI’s roster that has two or more years of Division I basketball experience. Head coach Tanya Warren sees that as a positive. “To some, that would probably give them gray hairs,” said Warren in her media day press conference. “To me, that’s extremely exciting, because as inexperienced as we are, I love the ceiling and the potential of this group. I love their versatility, I love their heart, I love how they compete, I love how they are there for each other.” Jenna Twedt also returns for her senior season after averaging 15.4 points per game last season. She is the only returning senior for the Panthers this year. Point guard Mya Nicholson is returning for her junior season. The Wisconsin native averaged eight points per game last season. Abby Tuttle is returning after a productive

campaign as a freshman. She played valuable minutes last season for the Panthers, and will look to increase her playing time even more during her sophomore season. Kaylynn Janes is another returning junior for the Panthers. She averaged 6.8 points last season as a sophomore and is eyeing an increased role this year. The Panthers also added a transfer to the squad this season in Callie Levin from the University of Iowa. Levin has already made a great impression on her coaches and teammates. “For her to be able to come into a new team, and her teammates vote her captain, that says a lot about that young lady,” said Warren. “She’s a natural leader in how she plays, and like I said, you would never know if she’s five for five or she’s 0-for-5 because of her communication with her team-

Photo Courtesy/UNI Athletics

Jenna Twedt drives down the lane in a matchup against South Dakota State on Dec. 10, 2025. Twedt is entering her senior season after averaging 15.4 points a season ago.

mates, her command of the floor, it never changes.” The Panthers will be tested early with its non-conference schedule this season, playing five high major teams in Iowa, Creighton, Kansas State, Minnesota and will play host to Iowa State on Nov. 18. The

deep array of competition is something Warren thinks will benefit her young team. “Sometimes with youth and inexperience, the best way to learn is to put your feet to the fire,” said Warren. “We’re certainly going to be able to do that and that excites me.”

PAGE 11

MICHAEL SPAHN

SPORTS

Sports Editor

Salukis stun Panthers OCTOBER 28, 2026 |

NORTHERNIOWAN.COM

By Christian Rasmussen Sports Writer

The UNI football team traveled to Carbondale, Illinois, for a Missouri Valley Conference battle against the Southern Illinois Salukis. The Panthers lost a close game by a score of 20-17, falling victim to a Salukis game-winning field goal as time expired. SIU quarterback DJ Williams made it very difficult for UNI to stop the Salukis’ offense. Williams ran for 89 yards on 14 carries and scored both touchdowns on the ground for Southern Illinois. The Panthers tallied over 350 total yards on offense, but penalties killed the team’s momentum throughout the course of the game. Despite the loss, Head Coach Todd Stepsis saw some things throughout the game he was pleased with. “I thought the effort was there,” said Stepsis. “I don’t think I saw us waiver the entire time. I thought our fourth down efficiency, both offense and defense was really good. I think we were four of five on offense [fourth down conversions] which was awesome.” Southern Illinois had possession to start this game, with running back Chandler Simpson starting the drive with a 39-yard rush on the first play. Shortly after, the Panthers’ defense stood tall, stopping Simpson on fourth-and-1 to spoil the scoring opportunity. UNI made quick work of

Photo Courtesy/UNI Athletics

Cyrus Courtney catches a touchdown against Southern Illinois in Carbondale, Illinois. Courtney caught two touchdown passes in UNI’s 20-17 loss.

the turnover on downs with a 39-yard rush by senior running back Xavier Terrell. After the drive stalled, the Panthers’ kicking woes would continue with a missed 35-yard field goal from Max Bartecheck to keep the game scoreless. Williams quickly returned the possession to UNI with an interception by Panthers cornerback Mekhi Toms on a deep ball. The Panthers methodically worked the ball downfield on an 11-play, 65-yard drive that spanned nearly seven minutes of clock. Quarterback Jaxon Dailey completed all five of his passes for 60 total yards, converting multiple third-and-long situations and a 3-yard touchdown pass to receiver Cyrus

Courtney on 4th-and-goal to give the Panthers a 7-0 lead. Dailey’s first three incompletions of the game came on the three-and-out drive, but a 59-yard punt by Logan Gregory pinned Southern Illinois deep in their own territory. After an 11-yard pass from Williams, the Salukis’ offense fell flat, resorting to their second punt in four drives. After both teams traded punts, the Salukis caught a break when unnecessary roughness and targeting penalties against the Panthers on a punt return put Southern Illinois 29 yards from the end zone. An 18-yard rushing touchdown by Williams tied the game up as the Salukis made

ally proud of the way the team fought back even when we were down 2-0 then down 3-0,” said Place Thomas in her weekly coaches press conference. UNI kicked off the match on the right foot. The Panthers created the match’s first scoring chance off a shot on target by defender Allison Flies in the seventh minute. UIC scored their first of three goals in the 20th minute as Rebecca Rugerrio found the back of the net to break the match’s level score. The Flames converted their very next shot on goal in the 34th minute to double their lead to 2-0. Panther midfielder Ella Ubben recorded two shots between the opposition’s goals, leading UNI in attempts in the first period. Abi Roberts also

notched a shot before the whistle blew for half-time. UNI opened the second half with an attacking flurry, threatening UIC with quick shots on goal from Audrey Still and Kacy Kuehl. Still, Ubben, and Camille Landphair kept pressing, adding four more straight shots, but still couldn’t get on the board. The Panthers outpaced the Flames in shots and shots on target throughout the match’s second half. Ubben and forwards Kylie Knief and Alli Saviano found yet another three shots before UIC’s Riley Cunningham retaliated, raising the score to 3-0. A minute later, the Panthers were awarded a penalty kick. Still capitalized on the chance in the 76th minute, rifling the ball in the top corner

VOLUME 123, ISSUE 10

quick work of the excellent field position. After the Panthers weren’t able to capitalize on a nine-play drive, Southern Illinois worked its way back downfield. SIU’s 11-play, 68-yard drive by the Salukis was brought to a halt after a fourth-down stop in the red zone by the Panthers. However, Dailey threw an interception on the ensuing drive, setting Southern Illinois up for a field goal right before halftime, giving the Salukis the 10-7 lead at the break. UNI started the half with possession, and with the help of an unnecessary roughness penalty against SIU, the Panthers were set up with great field position. Dailey was surgical, completing a 17-yard pass on fourth-and-5. The 15play drive, which lasted almost 9 minutes, led to a 32-yard field goal to tie the game at 10. Southern Illinois immediately responded with a 12-play, 75yard drive that ended in Williams’ second rushing touchdown to make it 17-10 Salukis. The Panthers were given a first down on a third-and-12 after SIU safety Vinny Pierre Jr. was flagged for targeting and ejected from the game. After the nine-play drive, Dailey’s pass fell incomplete on fourth down to give possession back to Southern Illinois. The Panthers’ defense stood tall thanks to a sack by senior Jackson Stortz, leading to a punt by Southern Illinois. UNI worked its way down

the field with a 37-yard pass and a 16-yard completion, with a roughing-the-passer penalty added on to the end of the play on 4th down. On fourthand-goal, Dailey threw a pass to Courtney at the back of the end zone. The play was originally called incomplete, but after replay review, it was ruled that Courtney maintained possession in the end zone, giving Courtney a ridiculous highlight-reel touchdown and two touchdowns on the day. The 13-play, 87-yard touchdown drive took over six minutes off the clock and tied the game at 17. With two minutes remaining in the game, Southern Illinois orchestrated a drive that consumed almost all the remaining time. Walk-on freshman kicker Weston Schofield drilled a game-winning 31-yard field goal, securing a 20-17 Southern Illinois victory. Dailey ended the afternoon with 26 completions, 240 passing yards and two touchdowns. Courtney stepped up with a six-catch performance, including his first two touchdowns as a Panther. Terrell also had a season high in carries (15) and yards (101) for UNI. “It was really neat for him [Cyrus Courtney] to come out and show everybody really what he’s all about,” said Stepsis. “We have a saying… you know.. Stay ready so you don’t have to get ready and that really is the epitome of Cyrus. It was really neat to see him have some big catches.”

Still notches first goal of 2026, UNI falls 3-1 By Sam O’Hair Sports Writer The University of Northern Iowa soccer team set off to Chicago, to face off with the UIC Flames in the team’s thirdto-last conference matchup on Sunday, Oct. 25. The Panthers came up short against the Flames, losing 3-1. The loss puts them ninth in the conference table as the Missouri Valley Conference (MVC) tournament approaches. Despite the disappointing result, head coach Alex Place Thomas was proud of the effort from her team. “It wasn’t the result we were looking for, however, we had the majority of possession the whole game, we had more shots than UIC, and I was re-

Photo Courtesy/UNI Athletics Keira Bogott dribbles to the net in a match at the UNI Soccer Field.

to bring the score to 3-1. Still became the Panthers’ fifth individual goalscorer of the season with the penalty shot. UNI’s Shalee Franck would record the team’s last shot on goal in the 84th minute before the officials called fulltime. The loss brings UNI’s record to 1-11-3, with a confer-

ence record of 1-4-2. While a top-six conference finish and MVC tournament bid are long shots, they aren’t mathematically out of the picture. The Panthers set their sights next on Carbondale, Illinois, hoping to upset the conference’s best team in Southern Illinois.

PAGE 12

ETC. OCTOBER 28, 2026 |

CROSSWORD BY NEW YORK TIMES

Across

1) Alphabetically first month 6) Affliction in "The Hurt Locker," in brief 10) "That so?" 14) Large safari sight 15) Island with Waikiki Beach 16) A goose egg 17) Staged fighting 19) Confirm with confidence 20) Beat, as cream 21) "I'll pay" 23) Tennis great Huber 26) Part of Lincoln's cabin 28) Convenient excuses 29) Extinct cousin of an elephant 33) Garlicky dip 34) Homer Simpson's watering hole 35) Angsty music genre 38) Repulsed cry 39) Longtime N.F.L. all-star game 42) J.F.K. or Obama, in brief 43) Cupful for a cold 44) Sitar maestro Shankar 45) Catherine of "The Last of Us" 47) Unethical marketing tactic

51) Olivia of "The Newsroom" 52) Feedbox bit 53) "Star Wars" twin sister 54) Deviate from the herd 57) What someone behind bars may need 59) Greiner of "Shark Tank" 60) Like an untrustworthy business ... or a hint to the ends of 17-, 29-, 39and 47-Across 65) Pep 66) Instrument to which an orchestra tunes 67) Biology class? 68) Which way the Great Sphinx of Giza faces 69) It trickles down an hourglass 70) Island off the coast of Venezuela

Down

1) One of the four in "all fours" 2) Vietnamese soup 3) Rocker Ocasek of the Cars 4) Bygone writing accessory 5) Nessie's body of water 6) Cheerleader's accessory 7) Can opener 8) False front 9) Responsibility 10) Stagnant 11) Words said with reservation?

NORTHERNIOWAN.COM

ANSWERS

12) Brainchilds 13) Small pie 18) Overly smooth 22) It might follow "Up top" and "down low" in a high-five trick 23) Stand by for 24) Neat, at a bar 25) "Laughing" birds from Down Under 27) Notorious Mafia family name 30) Bit of facial jewelry 31) Cry before being milked, maybe 32) Cry for milk, maybe 36) "Thank you, Madame" 37) Midwest city where Malcolm X was born 40) Snitch (on) 41) I.V.F. extractions 46) Tougher, in a way, as a bike course 48) Officially designate 49) Applied gently 50) "Don't go!" 51) Cold, hard cash 54) Great delight 55) Crafts seen around the world? 56) Idris of "A House of Dynamite" 58) "Young Frankenstein" woman 61) Over there, to a poet 62) White-bearded animal in the Serengeti 63) Center of operations 64) They wave their wands so you can fly, for short

JENNA WESTENDORF Managing Editor

VOLUME 123, ISSUE 10

SUDOKU