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/ The Sunflower

THURSDAY Oct. 28, 2021 Volume 126 Issue 12

WICHITA STATE’S STUDENT NEWS SOURCE SINCE 1896

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Professor files federal lawsuit against WSU, administrators BY LINDSAY SMITH editor@thesunflower.com / @Lindsau_KSmith

The Founder of the Center for Combatting Human Trafficking, Karen Countryman-Roswurm, filed a federal lawsuit Monday against Wichita State University and several administrators citing “years of harassment, discrimination, and retaliation.” The 115-page lawsuit details allegations of male colleagues in

Wichita State experiencing supply chain issues BY LINDSAY SMITH editor@thesunflower.com / @Lindsay_KSmith

Wichita State’s auxiliary services are facing a backlog of products due to supply shortages and are expecting it to last up until 2023. The university has seen the most problems ordering printing toner, paper and lamination. “We’ve had lamination on backorder for two months and still have no idea when we may get some in,” WSU’s director of auxiliary services Ellen Abbey said. Abbey said that the auxiliary services has changed the way they order to combat the issues. “We have changed the way we are doing ordering with auxiliary services,” Abbey said. “So that would include, you know, the post office and Chicago printing and some other areas, our office supplies, but so we’ve just decided with paper for example, you find a vendor that has the paper that you use most regularly. “We’re stocking up on it.” Abbey said since the start of the pandemic, supply shortages have been a common occurrence. “When COVID began a lot of our raw materials and a lot of parts … Are made in China, and that’s where COVID originates so that’s a lot of business that were affected by that,” Abbey said. “[They’re] trying to catch up with your business and all of the back orders that you have. And so now you’ve got tons of stuff that needs to ship but there’s only so many shipping containers … it’s just a problem that’s compounded.” Abbey said not enough of the campus community knows of the significant problems that the supply chain is causing. “I don’t think people are really aware and not thinking ahead,” Abbey said. “And you know, if you’re ordering binders to put on a workshop or something, you might not be able to get those binders. Especially if you have a large order and that’s what we’re experiencing is that things are trickling in.” “So if you want binders, you may order 50 binders for this conference, but you’re going to get them maybe five [or] 10 at a time and you may not get them in time.” Abbey said now is the time for people to change their habits. “We have got so accustomed to you know, ‘I need something, we’ll just go to Amazon and I’ll have it in a day or two,’” she said. “You really need to be buying your Christmas presents right now.”

the department of social work spreading falsehoods that she traded sexual favors for advancement in the university, and of administrators failing to follow university policy regarding discrimination and harrassment. The lawsuit also claims she received negative statements regarding her Native American heritage and faced retaliation from the university when the instances were reported, among other allegations.

When asked about the lawsuit Wednesday afternoon, President Rick Muma had no comment. Countryman-Roswurm, associate professor of social work, talked about her experiences in February 2020 during her opening remarks at a local conference on combatting human trafficking. The harassment allegedly started in 2013, when she was an assistant professor, and continued through present time.

The lawsuit accuses Fred Besthorn, professor of social work, of defamation of character, alleging that false COUNTRYMANROSWURM statements made by him caused Countryman-Roswurm harm, including her termination as the executive director of the Center for Combatting Human Trafficking.

Besthorn allegedly suggested that Countryman-Roswurm had sex with dean-level administrators to advance in the school, saying that “Native women are known for trading sex to get what they want.” The lawsuit details that Countryman-Roswurm frequently reported the harassment to thenDean of Liberal Arts and Sciences Ron Matson, who suggested she SEE LAWSUIT PAGE 2

SENIOR SHOWCASE

PHOTOS BY MIA HENNEN / THE SUNFLOWER

Wichita State University Musical Theatre Program’s graduating seniors held a dress rehearsal for their showcase at Wilner Auditorium on Oct. 21. Fall 2021 Senior Musical Theatre Showcase was hosted the next day with songs from Wicked, She Loves Me, Once, Into the Woods, Big Fish, The Bridges of Madison County, and others.

2 | THURSDAY, OCT. 28, 2021

NEWS

PHOTO BY KHANH NGUYEN / THE SUNFLOWER

President Rick Muma and SGA president Rija Khan pose in a photo booth during Pizza with the President on Oct 27 in the RSC.

Pizza with the President: Students get involved with homecoming week BY JULIA NIGHTENGALE news@thesunflower.com / @JuliaNightengale

On Wednesday, October 27, students attended the Pizza with the President and first Gentleman event, where students could enjoy free pizza, a photo booth, goodie bags and an hour to speak with the president and first Gentleman. Many students were excited at the chance to meet the president and have the opportunity to speak with him, as well as getting free pizza. Others had attended homecoming events such as the Dive-In Movie: Jaws and Wu’s Birthday Bash. President Rick Muma said that he has been enjoying homecoming week so far and is looking forward to more events. “It’s been great, we started out with the trunk or treat on Saturday, we test drove the float we are going to have for the homecoming parade,” Muma said. “I’ve been impressed at the involvement and the number of students involved.” Mary Peterson, a sophomore majoring in electrical engineering, said that she had attended WU’s birthday bash earlier in the week, and also made some sunflowers in the art gallery in the RSC. She said that it is really fun to have chances to connect and meet more people in the community. “I thought it would be fun to have free pizza, and it’s always great to meet the president of the university,” Peterson said. Eduardo Avila, a sophomore majoring in history, said that he

LAWSUIT FROM PAGE 1 not report the cases as it could affect her job and application for tenure. Countryman-Roswurm has individually sued University President Rick Muma, Liberal Arts and Sciences Dean Andrew Hippisley, Director of the School of Social Work Kyoung Lee and Vice President for Strategic Engagement and Planning Kaye Monk-Morgan. The lawsuit says all parties had knowledge of the discimination, harassment and retaliation, but failed to take any

was on campus and decided to wait around and check out the event. He said that he is enjoying getting more involved with campus life this year. “Ya, I think it’s been great, I’m a sophomore and freshman year we didn’t really have the opportunity to do much,” Avila said. Tais Solis, a junior majoring in international studies, said that she was curious to see who would come and wanted to hang out and see if she could talk to the president. Elena Kaufmann, an international student majoring in business administration, said that she is looking forward to attending the parade on Saturday. She said she enjoys the chance to meet other people. Cecilee Huber, a junior majoring in dental hygiene, said that she heard that there would be free pizza today. She attended Wu’s Birthday Bash and enjoyed the free cupcakes and getting to see everyone and take pictures. “I like President Muma a lot … but I also walked into the RSC and heard a lot of music so I stopped by,” Huber said. Muma said that he is looking forward to seeing the priorities he has already implemented start to move forward, as well as the Inauguration on Friday. “I’m feeling great, you know it’s not really about me, it’s about the university moving forward, that’s what it symbolizes to me,” Muma said.

actions, citing “evil motive or reckless indifference.” Andrew Hippisley allegedly told Countryman-Roswurm in 2018 that she was lucky to have her job and salary “as a woman” and that she should stop complaining about the discrimination and harassment. The lawsuit also claims that Muma, who was the provost at the time, encouraged CountrymanRoswurm to not pursue any of her complaints. He allegedly told her that it would be better for her to “let go of it.” Countryman-Roswurm has worked at the university since 2010.

www.thesunflower.com The Sunflower, founded in 1896, is the student-run newspaper covering Wichita State University. The print edition is published Monday during the fall and spring semesters. The staff publishes daily online at www.thesunflower.com.

MISSION The Sunflower — both in print and online — will be a timely resource of information about the Wichita State University community. It will report on news, issues, activities, academics and athletics, in addition to offering a forum for discussion, reviews and commentary. It will also be an effective learning experience for students, who will have the final authority over what is published.

LEGAL One free copy of The Sunflower is available to members of the WSU community. Additional copies may be purchased for $1 in the newsroom, Elliott Hall 019. The Sunflower is private property and unlawful removal or use of papers is prosecutable. The Sunflower is funded by a combination of print and online advertisment sales and student fees allocated by the Student Government Association. The Sunflower is a member of Kansas Collegiate Media, the Associated Collegiate Press and College Media Association. Copyright © 2021 The Sunflower. This newspaper, its design and its contents are copyrighted.

PHOTO BY RACHEL RUDISILL / THE SUNFLOWER

Rija Khan talks about the work she has done for her second year of student president on Oct. 20 in the RSC.

SGA president continues year with excitement BY JULIA NIGHTENGALE news@thesunflower.com / @JuliaNightengale

Criminal justice senior Rija Khan is currently serving in her second term as student body president with a new sense of reality. “I think folks like myself go into the role with so much passion, ready to just do everything,” Khan said. “But then the reality hits that you have to be understanding of the system around you, you have to be strategic with how you approach so there’s a cleaner process not just for you but everyone involved. Also taking input requires a lot of patience.” Through her role as SGA president, Khan has learned that she wants to go into politics one day and impact and improve the lives of people on a bigger scale. Khan is originally from Karachi, Pakistan and for her family, her role is still a big shock to them. “There are times where I still forget that I am the Student Body President so I just do whatever and then I’m like, ‘Wait, no I hold a position where I have to behave a certain way, cannot do certain things,’ but it’s always been an honor,” Khan said. “Coming from Karachi, Pakistan, a third world country where the lifestyle is different there, no one expected me to come to college at WSU

and become the student body president twice. Khan’s uncle is a graduate of WSU. She said that this made it even more special when she got elected twice. Khan said that her cabinet has been focused on diversity and inclusion, with the implementation of Diversity Week. They are also hoping to get the Diversity and Inclusion Senate finalized during this session. In terms of sustainability efforts, they have been focused on working with The Green Group and their community garden as well as trying to tackle food insecurity by bringing an ICT community pantry to campus for 24/7 access to food. Khan said that they will hopefully soon be putting out a Shocker Support Locker five-year plan and are also wanting to bring a grocery story on or near campus. “The decisions that I make reflect the past, present and affect the future,” Khan said. “This position is more than me … I have to be really careful and strategic on how it affects the future of our student body.” Khan said that while the position is a difficult one, she has learned to lean on those around her. “What makes me the most happy is knowing that I have a team surrounding me that is

equally as passionate about the stuff they are working on,” Khan said. “I know none of the things that we have accomplished would never have gotten accomplished if it wasn’t that team surrounding me.” Khan said that she wants to leave a lasting impact on those around her. “If people were to remember me, I hope they would remember the passion and the work ethic, and I guess my morals that I brought to this role and how it impacted the student body positively,” Khan said. “And if that’s not the case, that’s alright because I did everything to the best of my ability to make sure that they were the right things for our students, and hopefully time shows that.” Khan is graduating with her bachelor’s degree this upcoming May. She said that she is both excited and dreading leaving Wichita State University. “I am excited for the next phase, because the hope is that I get into a really good law school,” Khan said. “But I’m also really really sad because I have such good relationships on campus with students, staff and faculty. This feels like home now, I’ve been doing it for the past year and a half now. It will be really sad to leave the Wichita State University family behind.”

Vaccine mandate issued for all WSU employees, mask mandate issued for all BY LINDSAY SMITH editor@thesunflower.com / @Lindsay_ KSmith

All WSU employees are now required to receive the COVID19 vaccine by Dec. 8, following President Biden’s executive order. This includes full-time, part-time and student employees who do not provide a medical or religious exemption, the university announced on Friday. The mandate includes those who are

working remotely. Employees who do not comply will not be allowed to work after Dec. 8. Further failure to comply may result in separation, according to the university statement. The University is asking for unvaccinated workers to receive their first dose immediately. “As I have said before, vaccines remain the most effective way for us to combat this virus,” President Rick Muma said. “Our top priority has been and remains the

EDITOR IN CHIEF Lindsay Smith news@thesunflower.com

DESIGN DIRECTOR Thy Vo design@thesunflower.com

NEWS EDITOR Julia Nightengale news@thesunflower.com

PHOTO EDITOR Khanh Nguyen photoeditor@thesunflower.com

OPINION EDITOR Jaycie Nelson opinion@thesunflower.com

ASSISTANT PHOTO EDITOR Lena Alhallaq photos@thesunflower.com

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Kyran Crist arts@thesunflower.com

MARKETING MANAGER Kaylee Stout marketing@thesunflower.com

SPORTS EDITOR Sean Marty sports@thesunfower.com

ADVERTISING MANAGER Rachel Thomas admanager@thesunflower.com

ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR Emmie Boese elboese@shockers.wichita.edu

FACULTY ADVISOR Amy DeVault amy.devault@wichita.edu

health, safety and well-being of our entire campus community.” Additionally, everyone on campus will be required to wear a mask and socially distance at all times on campus, both outdoor and indoor spaces, effective Oct. 25. Currently, masking is only required in classroom settings. Students, faculty and staff can schedule a vaccination appointment through Student Health Services.

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Corrections

The Sunflower is committed to accuracy in its publications. If you find an error in any of its publications, please email the editor at editor@thesunflower.com immediately.

NEWS

THURSDAY, OCT. 28, 2021 | 3

UNIVERSITY TO INAUGURATE

15TH PRESIDENT

ILLUSTRATION BY THY VO / THE SUNFLOWER

Nathan Jackson Morrison (1895-1907) President of Fairmount College — Nathan Morrison was the first president of Fairmount College, and was responsible for putting the first library on campus and one of the first libraries in Wichita, according to the Wichita Eagle. In 1906, Fairmount College received a $40,000 grant from the Carnegie Foundation to build the library, according to the Wichita Eagle.

President of University of Wichita and Wichita State University — On July 1st, 1964, the university officially entered into the state system of higher education and became one of the six state universities today governed by the Kansas Board of Regents. 9

Walter Huntington Rollins (1914-1921)

John Duncan Finlayson (1922-1927)

Harold Waldstein Foght (1927-1934)

William Marion Jardine (1934-1949)

President of the Municipal University of Wichita — Jardine returned stability to the university and contributed to improving the standing of the university in many ways during his term, with the onset of the Great Depression and community members criticizing the “liberal” tendencies of faculty and sport “boosters” trying to control the sport programs. 7

Harry Finch Corbin (1949-1963)

Richard Muma (2021-) Muma has been at the university since 1994, when he was hired as a Physician’s Assistant Program professor. He became the associate vice president for strategic enrollment management in 2016 and was promoted to provost in 2018. When former President John Bardo died in 2019, Muma served as acting president until KBOR named Andy Tompkins interim president. When Golden resigned last year, Muma became acting president again and was later named interim president. Muma is the first openly gay president of WSU. An advocate for the LGBT population during his time at WSU, with his husband, Muma established an

John William Bardo (2012-2019) President of Wichita State University — Bardo started with a mission called the Bardo Five: improve overall quality of education, increase enrollment, enhance research, pursue technology in partnership with industry and improve the quality of student life. Some accomplishments included new infrastructure and housing facilities and the Innovation Campus.

President of the Municipal University of Wichita and University of Wichita — The first alumnus to be appointed president, enrollment topped 5,000 in 1956 after World War II ended. A battle to include the school in the state system began after the city could not support the University without charging a higher tuition. The university also continued to develop, with new buildings, dorms, and research becoming part of the mission.

Donald Lee Beggs (1999-2012) President of Wichita State University, Beggs accomplished many things in his term, including establishing and strengthening relationships with the City of Wichita and local employers. He also brought Koch Arena to campus, the Marcus Welcome Center, a multi-million dollar renovation of the RSC, and the continued development and growth of the National Institute for Aviation Research.

President of the Municipal University of Wichita — With the school now being controlled by a Board of Regents representing the city commission and the School Board, enrollment numbers quickly shot up with 1200 students in 1931. New colleges were added including a college of fine and applied arts and graduate school and Foght launched a major building campaign. 6

Eugene Morgan Hughes (1993-1998) President of The Wichita State University and Wichita State University — During his term, Hughes was focused on a campaign called “The Metropolitan Advantage,” to redefine WSU’s connection to the community. With the idea that universities need to evolve with their community, he opened off-campus centers.

President of Fairmount College and the Municipal University of Wichita — Finlayson entered into his term as president with a population of 500 students, and funding problems for the university finally came to a head with the decision to become the Municipal University of Wichita, to avoid moving or closing the college. The public was divided on this decision. 5

Warren Bruce Armstrong (1983-1993) President of Wichita State University and The Wichita State University — As enrollment began to decline due to the expansion of local community colleges, WSU focused on adding new doctoral programs and getting rid of two-year certificate programs. Part-time and international student enrollment rose, while other new additions included the Elliott School of Communication and the National Institute of Aviation Research.

President of Fairmount College — Rollins became president after Thayer retired, and faced the same fight of fixing the school’s financial problems. On May 20, 1916, he sent a letter home to parents asking for financial help to cover expenses for Fairmount college. After failing to solve these problems, Thayer retired with a sense of being unappreciated in Wichita. 4

Clark David Ahlberg (1968-1983) President of Wichita State University — Ahlberg saw the university advance rapidly during his term, with enrollment going from less than 7,000 in 1963 to over 17,000 in the early 1980’s. New programs such as computer science were added, the College of Health Professions, and the addition of one million square feet of new buildings and a new perimeter roads system.

Henry Ernest Thayer (1907-1914) President of Fairmount College — Henry Thayer, a previous minister with the Plymouth Congregational Church spent his time as president trying to fix the college’s budget issues, as well as continuing the vision that Morrison had of a college with Christian values that resembled a New England college.

Emory Kempton Lindquist (1963-1968)

Jay Golden (2019-2020) President of Wichita State University — Golden started in December 2019 and resigned in September 2020. He was never inaugurated. Three months in, he led campus through the initial stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. His resignation came roughly three months after donors threatened to pull funding if the Board of Regents didn’t fire him over his decision to move Ivanka Trump’s WSU Tech commencement speech from keynote to optional. The board gave no explanation for his resignation.

equality scholarship for LGBT individuals. “I think it’s historic, I think it’s important for Kansas,” Muma said at the presidential announcement in early May of this year. “I think it’ll say a lot of things to a lot of different people in different ways about inclusions diversity and just the way our society is. “Anybody can be in any position. I think the more that we send that message around and the more that we model it I think the better we will be as a society.” Muma said in an interview with The Sunflower that he will be focused on access and providing as much needbased aid to students as possible. He will also be making sure that students have paid applied learning experiences and focus on researching at the university.

INFORMATION AND PHOTOS COURTESY OF WICHITA STATE LIBRARY

Inauguration ceremony for Richard Muma at 2:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 29, in the Hughes Metropolitan Complex, located at 29th Street N. and Oliver. The ceremony will be livestreamed on YouTube and WSU social media channels.

4 | THURSDAY, OCT. 28, 2021

WWW.THESUNFLOWER.COM

Opinion

HAVE AN OPINION?

contact The Sunflower’s opinion editor, Jaycie Nelson opinion@thesunflower.com

What you fuel your body with is important Kyran Cast

Arts and Entertainment Editor

arts@thesunflower.com

There’s a stereotype about college students and our eating habits, the ol’ “living off ramen and coffee/energy drinks.” Which may not be exact, but it is pretty close to how well we pay attention to our nutrition. We spend all day bouncing from class to class and then knock out either a nap or a bit of homework before we have to go to work or other obligations — we need fast and easy. Fast and easy these days comes up to about a bunch of empty carbs and lots of sugar. Our dining options here on campus are wide in variety and offer a lot of options when it comes to healthy eating. But usually those aren't the tastiest things on the menu, and I don’t know about you but I don't want to spend 10 dollars on a gross meal. Yes, there is always the salad machine, it looks like it would have fresh salad mixings in it that are not soggy at all (note the sarcasm).

“The best thing you can do for yourself in college is to take care of yourself so that you’re better off, that’s why we’re here right?” Bottom line, unless you are making your own food or picking the healthiest thing on the menu in Shocker Hall — it is hard to find a meal with the proper nutrients that your body needs. That being said, we are in one of the most non-stop and fast paced times of our lives. We will always have time to eat better later, right? Short answer — yeah. Long answer — no. Our health is something that should be just as prioritized as our classes and work. We can’t go days on end skipping meals and snacking on whatever throughout the day and substituting fake energy for the stuff we need. I’m not saying you have to change your whole diet. Just little changes, healthy food isn't fast

FILE PHOTO BY MATT COOPER / THE SUNFLOWER

The Sea of Japan is served on a bed of green lettuce and centered with a cucumber filled with Kanai’s in-house made crab salad. The Sea of Japan has a varying list price of about $30.

but it is if you spend some time on Sunday night to meal prep for your week. The best thing you can do for yourself in college is to take care of yourself so that you’re better off, that’s why we’re here right? To gain

knowledge and experience to be better off in life. Simple meals that you like and pack easily are great to take on campus, there is a microwave in the RSC if you need an area to heat it up, and there are areas to just

relax and eat. It’s cheaper, it’s better for your body and it saves time trying to figure out what to eat. At the end of the day the saying is true, our bodies are machines and we need to fuel them properly or they just won't work.

We need to do a better job of promoting social work as a career Julia Nightengale News Editor news@thesunflower.com

As a senior in the social work program at WSU, I couldn’t picture myself doing anything else or moving into any other profession. While I am very happy with my decision to major in social work, I didn’t figure out that this is what I wanted to do until two years ago when I was entering into my junior year of college. Majoring in social work was completely my idea, with no outside influences. I knew that I wanted to switch my major and after browsing the list of majors offered by WSU and doing my own research into the profession, I spent a lot of time wondering why it took me so long to figure out what I wanted to do.

When I was in my junior and senior year of high school, a lot of emphasis was placed on choosing a career path, but not once do I remember having someone tell me about the profession of social work. While careers such as teachers, psychologists and police officers were prominent, I knew that those weren’t exactly what I wanted to do. Have you ever heard a teenager respond with the statement, ‘I just want to help people’ in regards to what they want to do with their life? Because I have, and not just once, but a lot, and it has come from my own mouth as well. Many kids want to have a positive impact on the world but don’t see themselves in the typical helping professions that everyone talks about. Many people hear the word social worker and immediately picture a person who takes kids away

Opinion LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Letters should concentrate on issues, not personalities, and must be fewer than 400 words. Letters may be edited for accuracy, clarity and length. Please include your name, WSU affiliation and a phone number for verification purposes. To submit letters, email opinion@thesunflower.com or submit at www.thesunflower.com. The opinions expressed in The Sunflower editorials, columns, guest columns, reviews, advertisements, letters and editorial cartoons are not necessarily those of the staff, publications board, student body or the university. The Sunflower reserves the right to edit or reject any submission. We also reserve the right to edit or reject any advertisement.

“It’s helping people build better lives, relationships, communities and giving them the tools to live the healthy and happy life that they deserve.” from families. While child welfare is a huge sector of social work, it doesn’t even begin to describe the profession as a whole. I don’t have enough space here today to give an in-depth overview of social work, but all you really need to know are the core values of the profession; service, social justice, dignity and worth of the person, importance of human relationships, integrity, and competence. Social work is about people and

fighting for the basic rights that we all deserve. It’s helping people build better lives, relationships, communities and giving them the tools to live the healthy and happy life that they deserve. We work with all populations of people, from young to old, and believe in self-determination. We don’t tell people how to live their lives; we give them the tools and resources to create and meet their own personal goals. If you’ve ever been told that you have a bleeding heart or that you are too sensitive, it might just mean that you were meant to be a social worker. When I think about social work, I truly think that my purpose in life is to help people and be an advocate. At the end of the day, I know that my work is important and I am slowly making a positive impact on the world, one person at a time. The profession is growing and

in higher demand than ever, with a projected twelve percent change in employment from 2020 to 2030 according to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics. Social work is a very broad profession, with so many different paths to take and explore that you will never feel bored or stagnant. I urge schools and parents to start promoting social work to those kids who just aren’t sure what they want to do but know that they want to work with people and have a positive impact on the world. While I wouldn’t change anything about my path, I wish I would’ve known about social work way sooner than I did. We need social workers, and I am excited to be part of the next generation in a field that shines a bright light of hope in a world that is filled with negativity and darkness. We need all the hands that we can get; I hope you will join me.

SUNFLOWER HOT TAKES The Sunflower editorial board gives their one-sentence opinions.

Lindsay Smith: Hot Tamales helped me destress Sean Marty: The Bachelor franchise is going downhill. Jaycie Nightengale: I wonder how rich people sleep at night knowing their extra money could be used to pull some people out of poverty. Jaycie Nelson: It’s too cold for a hot take. Thy Vo: Frozen min-pizzas in the air fryer for 320º Fahrenheit.

5 | THURSDAY, OCT. 28, 2021

Street

OPINION

Dune part one was a success Jaycie Nelson Opinion Editor opinion@thesunflower. com

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE CANDY?

ADAM MCELROY JUNIOR, INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS

“Probably Reese’s, just because.”

This past Friday, Dune, a movie based on the sci-fi series by Frank Herbert, was released in theaters and it was a success. On opening day it reached up to 40 million dollars in the box office. It’s not only successful because of the money earned, but also based on the cinematic production itself. As someone who’s read the Dune book, and was beyond excited for the movie — I was not let down. I was unaware it was only part one of the movie until I entered the theater and read, “Dune Part 1,” however, it was a good decision to make it two parts. They did it right. The first movie built up the world so that even if a person hadn’t read the book, like my brother who went with me, they were able to be just as invested in the world and plot. I was happy and surprised about how the movie was very aligned with the book. No movie is going to exactly represent the book, however, I believe the movie did it justice. While Dune could be conceived as slow-paced, and I understand

why some people might not have been a fan, I think it was necessary for the story. My only problem with it is that I have to wait years for the second part because I loved the first one so much. According to Rotten Tomatoes, it received a 83% approval rating from critics and 91% from the audience rating. An average score for critics on rotten tomatoes is 60%, so 83% is well above it. Also, we sometimes see when the critics score high, the audience doesn’t and vice versa, however, both scores were very high. Letting us know the movie was well received. Not only did the movie have a stellar cinematic production, the cast was “stacked.” Dune had Timothy Chamalat as Paul Atreides (the main character), Zendaya as the woman he’s seeing visions of. Then we have the Game of Thrones star Jason Momoa as Duncan, a swordmaster, and Rebecca Ferguson from The Greatest Showman as Paul’s mom. We also have Oscar Isaac from Star Wars as his father, and many others. The movie brought to life the sci-fi world and events in a beautiful way. I’m not a movie critic, and can’t thoroughly dissect this movie. But I know I enjoyed it — and if you want to experience a breathtaking world, you should watch it.

COURTESY OF WARNER BROS

BRIANNA CALDINO FRESHMAN, HEALTH MANAGEMENT

“Airheads, but the rainbow strips.”

ILLUSTRATION BY THY VO / THE SUNFLOWER

JAYDEN MITCHELL FRESHMAN, EDUCATION

“Reese’s Pieces… just because it’s good and I like peanut butter.”

Be the change Turning Point USA you want to see should sue SGA at your university Mitchell Adamson Columnist

Jaycie Nelson Opinion Editor opinion@thesunflower. com

NATALIE FEILD FRESHMAN, FORENSIC SCIENCE

“Sour Patch Kids because obviously first they’re sour and then they’re sweet. But they’re just really good.. They’re just really good if you want both types of candy, you can just have it in one.”

TYLER BAYLIFF FRESHMAN, ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING

“Butterfinger… they’re best cold.”

No place, person or thing will ever be perfect. However, we can always push for better in ourselves, others and institutions. We can be grateful while at the same time want to grow. We can want better for everyone. We can be grateful, but that doesn’t have to mean being content. You can be happy and content with what you have. But there’s also something awe-inspiring about taking something you’re passionate about and pushing for better for it. Wichita State has amazing organizations, but does it have every organization possible? No. If there’s an organization you want to see be made, you can create it. There’s also an amazing faculty at Wichita State, but if you’re running into problems with that professor, speak up because others may be struggling with them as well. Talk to them about it, and if it’s not something you can do, then take it up with the university itself. If there are events you want, or ideas you have. Share them with your teachers, students and other faculty. Ask your teachers or dean’s how it could happen. Utilize the resources WSU has and then explore how it could be better. We pay a lot of money for school, and we should never have to settle. Work with the university to create a better place for yourself

“The university has the opportunity to create more opportunities, fix solutions and create a better environment, we just have to push for it.” and other students as well. Being an idealist with hope for a utopian school isn’t a fault. You can love your school and still want to see change. You may not think your idea is important, but if it’s important to you then it matters. We’re given four years, give or take, and we should want it to be the best experience we can. The university has the opportunity to create more opportunities, fix solutions and create a better environment, we just have to push for it. There will always be problems or improvements, but that doesn’t mean we stop pushing for them. Leave your mark on WSU, and make an impact. Join clubs, propose ideas and create. If you are content with the university, that’s okay — it’s a great school. However, it’s also okay if you want to see another club created or another team made. It might not be easy, and it’ll take some effort, but it can be done or at least worked toward. Go create memories, hope and a university you love. Be the change you want to see.

meadamson1@wichita. shockers.edu

The Wichita State Chapter of Turning Point USA should sue the Wichita State Student Government Association for barring the rights of Freedom of Speech under the First Amendment of the United States. Turning Point USA is filing an appeal to the student supreme court right now, according to KWCH. At the SGA’s most recent session, there was debate on whether to allow the organization “Turning Point USA” as a registered student organization. Many fearing that “white nationalist” ideals are held by the organization’s members, which could create a campus fraught with hate speech and violence. What they are doing is a violation of rights under the First Amendment of the United States. What is particularly important is the fact that the reason why they voted against Turning Point’s RSO status is not because the group has done something against the law, but because of potential future harm that could be attached to the group by having views contrary to the majority. That’s why I believe they voted against the group. They want to erase what they deem as the “incorrect” view of the world. There are currently no members part of the organization that hold white-supremacist beliefs, nor does the organization take any stances on social issues. This is very important to consider when thinking about the RSO

status, if the group does not plan to take any action on issues regarding race, why would it be an issue that the SGA would even discuss. They aren’t looking at what the organization stands for. They have a preconceived bias and were looking for something that would allow them to deny the organization from having a voice. Why would the SGA want to keep the group from having the ability to air their concerns? It is hard to tell, but considering the group leans more conservative I would conclude that it played a major part. This is not something just at WSU though, it exists across the country — for every conservative that wants to attain higher education at a university . They want conservatives to give up their views of the world and accept one’s that are foreign. They believe in “diversity” as long as it has nothing to do with beliefs different from their own. Would you see this type of pushback for another group that had more liberal views on campus? This is injustice. This is bias. For conservatives we must group together and we must speak out, we must take action and not let our beliefs be shut down, simply for having them. I know that it is easy to sit back and let the left have their way, but if they have their way it means that you won’t be able to have any thoughts of your own. It will mean conforming to whatever picture they want you to see when you wake up in the morning. Conservatives opinions are equally valid and at Wichita State we will not be silenced because you disagree.

6 | THURSDAY, OCT. 28, 2021

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Sports

HAVE A STORY IDEA? contact The Sunflower’s sports editor, Sean Marty sports@thesunflower.com

SIX NEW FACES New schools to join the American Athletic Conference

NAME University of Alabama in Birmingham

University of North Carolina in Charlotte

Florida Atlantic University

University of Texas-San Antionio

Rice University

University of North Texas

Owls

Mean Green

1969-70 First Round

2020-21 Second Round

Fifth-smallest school in D-I football

Named after alumni ‘Mean’ Joe Greene

NICKNAMES Blazers

49ers

Owls

Roadrunners

LAST NCAA TOURNAMENT 2004-05 First Round

2015-16 First Four

2001-02 First Round

2010-11 First Round

FUN FACTS Cut football in 2014, before its return in 2017

Changed name to Charlotte in 2000

Fielded first football team in 2001

Mascot was chosen by students in 1977

2021-22 KENPOM RANKINGS No. 71

No. 201

No. 194

No. 237

No. 144

No. 135

INFOGRAPHIC BY SEAN MARTY / THE SUNFLOWER

American Athletic Conference announces the addition of six new schools BY SEAN MARTY sports@thesunflower.com / @TheSeanMarty

The American Athletic Conference announced the addition of six new universities — Florida Atlantic University, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, University of North Texas, University of Texas at San Antonio, Rice University and University of Alabama at Birmingham — to the conference on Thursday. “Nine years ago (when the AAC formed), a lot of people doubted us,” AAC commissioner Mike Aresco said. “But what we’re doing here is building for the long-term future. We decided there was strength in numbers. We also looked around and said, ‘You know, there are some schools we might be interested in later on. Why not think about taking them now?’ The six universities will join the nine continuing members – East Carolina, Memphis, Navy (football only), South Florida, SMU, Temple, Tulane, Tulsa and Wichita State (basketball and Olympic sports only) — to bring The American’s membership to 15 schools. The American will compete as a 14-team league in football and in men’s and women’s basketball, among other sports. The timeline for the arrivals of the six new schools – all from Conference USA – is yet to be finalized, although it is likely to occur in 2023 and 2024. “We weren’t shocked when we heard the final word last week,” athletic director Darron Boatright said. “I do think we were surprised it was six, which is not a bad thing but six is a lot. We’re ready as a conference to welcome them in and hopefully

“We’re ready as a conference to welcome them in and hopefully they can make a difference and increase our attention nationally.” DARRON BOATRIGHT Athletic Director

they can make a difference and increase our attention nationally.” The American opted to add these six schools following the departures of the University of Houston, University of Cincinnati, and University of Central Florida to the Big-12 conference. The AAC is looking to keep the same high level of the conference, but it will be difficult to replace, especially for men’s basketball. Houston is fresh off a trip to the Final Four, while Cincinnati has made six trips to the NCAA Tournament during their time in the American. UCF only made it to the tournament once, advancing to the second round in 2019. According to AAC bylaws, those schools’ exit date would be July 1, 2024, but it is likely those schools will pay an increased exit fee so they will leave prior to the 2023 season. “Our intention and our hope is we can get back to that,” Boatright said. “We took a pretty hard blow but we’ve added some new conference affiliates that we think can add in other ways, be competitive in some sports that we maybe haven’t been as competitive in. It’s probably not the direction people saw us going, but it’s something we’re proud to be a part of.”

UAB is the most promising basketball program, entering this season with a KenPom ranking of No. 71. North Texas is the latest of the six programs to make the NCAA Tournament, advancing to the second round last spring. Outside of those two programs, the other four have struggled in recent seasons. None have finished in the top-100 of KenPom in the past 10 years. “We’re off to a good start this year, without those six schools,” Boatright said. “It’s going to be a long term process, they’re not going to beat the door down on year one, we don’t expect them to.” The addition of these six new universities could help WSU in recruiting, with the conference adding three Texas schools and Charlotte. The Shockers have recruited well in North Carolina, most recently with Ricky Council IV and in Texas with Morris Udeze and Qua Grant. “These are (all) areas we recruit – Texas, North Carolina, Florida,” men’s basketball head coach Isaac Brown said. “That helps us a lot in recruiting, for those kids to be able to go back home and play against those teams in their (home) state. It does a lot for us in recruiting.” WSU is entering its fifth year in the AAC, which Boatright said has been a successful partnership. The Shockers are coming off one of its best seasons in school history after winning two regular season conference championships. “I think it’s been very positive for us,” Boatright said. “I think it’s been something our fans have been excited about. I know our coaches have been excited about it. It’s been positive and I look for that to remain moving forward.”

COURTESTY PHOTO FROM JULIA MAENIUS / THE PAISANO

UTSA’s Sincere McCormick celebrates with Frank Harris during their game against UNLV on Oct. 2 inside the Alamodome.

SPORTS

THURSDAY, OCT. 28, 2021 | 7

MORE THAN AN ATHLETE

Wichita State men’s basketball player Tyson Etienne gives back to charity through photography exhibition BY SEAN MARTY sports@thesunflower.com / @TheSeanMarty

Wichita State’s men’s basketball player Tyson Etienne became the latest student-athlete to take advantage of the new name, image, and likeness rules, showcasing his photography skills in an art exhibit in downtown Wichita on Saturday. The exhibition titled, “What do you see?” showed Etienne’s photographs of New York City at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The event was hosted by Mud Haus and featured live and silent auctions, and a gift raffle. “You see things from a different angle, everybody has a different perspective,” Etienne said. “I’m just here to show how I capture it. I captured New York City during COVID-19, a city that always has people on the streets, empty and just giving people a different perspective. “Everybody here is mostly from Wichita, Kansas and they only see New York in the movies and in the pictures and stuff. I wanted to give my own interpretations of the environments. What they see in the frame and in the lens is what they depict from it.” The proceeds from select photographs will go towards Starkey, a local organization that serves people with disabilities. Choosing an organization like Starkey was important for Etienne.

Wichita State to require masks at sporting events

“That’s the biggest thing for me is trying to give back. At the end of the day, I play basketball with the intention and intensity to inspire people.” TYSON ETIENNE Sophomore

“That’s the biggest thing for me is trying to give back,” Etienne said. “At the end of the day, I play basketball with the intention and intensity that I have ultimately to inspire people on a global scale. You’ve got to start somewhere so to be able to give back to Starkey is something huge for me. “People with disabilities are something close to my heart, obviously I lost a family member to it. Just to be able to give back and give people a night on the town is something that I value.” Etienne initially started a passion for photography during his freshman year of high school after suffering an ankle injury. Since he couldn’t train or work out, his mother suggested photography and he soon found a passion. “My mom was like ‘you need to take the camera and go somewhere and get out of the house’,” Etienne said. “From that point,

I remember going down to that river and taking pictures of the city and I just loved the feeling of it and ever since it’s been a hobby of mine.” The sophomore guard is coming off his best season as a Shocker, winning co-AAC Player of the Year and leading WSU to a NCAA Tournament berth. Etienne is back in Wichita for his third season of college basketball after testing the NBA Draft waters this past offseason. Etienne said it was important for him to host the first part of his exhibit in Wichita, after the past three years. “I wanted to have the first part in Wichita, it’s been important to me for the past three years of my life,” Etienne said. “I’ve grown so much as a person and a player obviously but I wanted to do something to give back to the city.” Etienne’s teammates were in attendance at the event, which he said their support away from the basketball court is important to him. “Just to have my teammates have my back on something that’s not on the court, I’m appreciative of it but it also shows me the impact I have on my teammates,” Etienne said. “The fact that my teammates come and stay makes me really appreciative. I’m glad to go to war with those guys and for the season that we’ll have.”

PHOTO BY KHANH NGUYEN / THE SUNFLOWER

Sophomore Tyson Etienne talks to the media during his photography exhibition on Oct 23 in downtown Wichita.

Volleyball extends winning streak to seven matches

BY SEAN MARTY

sports@thesunflower.com

sports@thesunflower.com / @TheSeanMarty

Masks will be required at sporting events on Wichita State’s campus indefinitely, a university spokesperson confirmed to The Sunflower. The university announced yesterday that all university employees must receive the COVID-19 vaccine, following President Biden’s order. All individuals are also required to wear masks on campus and to socially distance, according to the release. The Sunflower initially reported earlier on Saturday that officials were unclear about the mask requirement and have yet to make an official announcement. There had been no restrictions at any sporting events this year, but starting with the men’s basketball game against Missouri Southern State on Nov. 1, masks will be required. “We’re gonna not be in a hurry and see what’s best for our fans,” athletic director Darron Boatright said yesterday, shortly following the university announcement. They’re will be some push back no doubt about it but the good news and bad news is that we’ve been through this exercise before. We’re going to try to make it as easy for them as we can but we have regulations to adhere to. When we open up our facilities and open up the university the most important thing is to keep it going business wise.” Last year, basketball games initially started with no fans allowed to attend games, before it was increased to 25% capacity for men’s basketball’s regular-season finale. Boatright said he viewed the university’s announcement as a setback, although it remains unclear what precautions will be taken by the athletic department. “I don’t want to minimize the battle of COVID by restricting it to games but I just think we’re back to some familiar areas that we don’t want to be in,” Boatright said. “As long as they’re mandated, we’re going to follow the mandates and what’s requested of us.” Although the university has announced the mask requirement, they have not announced any additional protocols for attending games following the university’s announcement.

The Wichita State volleyball program continued its winning ways this past week, securing a pair of road victories. The wins bring the Shockers’ winning streak to seven matches, with all the victories coming in American Athletic Conference play.

TULSA After dropping the opening set, Wichita State rallied to knock off Tulsa on Wednesday, for the Shockers sixth consecutive win. WSU notched a season-high 94 digs on the night, combined with nine blocks to limit the Golden Hurricane to hitting percentages of .103, .167 and .065 over the final three sets. Morgan Weber set a new career high with 22 digs, followed by 18 from Lily Liekweg and 17 from Bryn Stansberry. WSU’s offense clicked into gear in the fourth set, after taking sets two and three, as the Shockers hit a match-best .368. Sophia Rohling and Brylee Kelly each delivered five kills in the set, increasing WSU’s lead to 15-9. Another Kelly kill put the finishing touches on the Shockers fourth straight road win in conference play. Setter Kayce Litzau collected another great performance in charge of the offense, tallying 46 assists while also recording 12 digs, five kills, four blocks and an ace. Rohling came off the bench to collect 11 kills on a .435 hitting percentage, and Morgan Stout had seven kills and six block assists.

TEMPLE Wichita State bounced back quickly from a first set defeat to roll past Temple on Sunday afternoon. Natalie Foster delivered a career-best and match-high 18 kills, hitting .417 and adding three block assists. The Shockers rallied to win sets two and three, before claiming the first four points of the fourth set and never trailed, thanks to five kills a piece from Kelly and Foster. Litzau delivered back-to-back aces late in the set to extend the lead to 19-14, and Temple never got closer than five points the rest of the way. Five different Shockers recorded multiple digs in the set, and Litzau

SPORTS IN BRIEFS FOSTER EARNS FIRST WEEKLY HONOR ROLL Wichita State freshman middle Natalie Foster was named to the American Weekly Honor Roll following a career-best performance on Sunday against Temple. Foster hammered 18 kills in the four-set win over the Owls, hitting .417 despite logging a career-high 36 attacks. Foster also added eight kills in Wednesday’s road victory over Tulsa, giving her 11 matches this season with eight or more kills.

HENSON SECURES TOP-10 FINISH

PHOTO BY MIA HENNEN / THE SUNFLOWER

The Wichita State volleyball team celebrates after a point during their match against Cincinnati on Oct. 17 inside Charles Koch Arena.

dished out 11 assists to give her 48 for the match. Litzau led the way with 16 digs, while Lily Liekweg added 15. Newsome finished one dig shy of a double-double, tallying 12 kills and nine digs. Kelly finished with 14 kills while adding three service aces and two solo blocks. It’s the seventh straight win for the Shockers, all coming in conference play. The victory, combined with Houston’s loss to East Carolina, moves Wichita State into a three-way tie for second place in the American standings at 7-3. The win is also the 800th in program history. “I feel like we’re all on the same page on what we want out of the season and we all want to win,” Sophie Childs said after their win against Cincinnati. “So, I think getting those wins more and more, we don’t want to stop. Keep it alive and everybody wants to win.”

UP NEXT Wichita State continues their roadtrip with a trip to Florida for a meeting with South Florida on Friday night. First serve is scheduled for 6:00 PM and can be streamed live on ESPN+.

WEEKEND LEADERS VS. TULSA (20-25, 25-22, 25-16,

25-15)

KILLS – Brylee Kelly (20)

Sophia Rohling (11) Natalie Foster (8) DIGS – Morgan Weber (22) Lily Liekweg (18) Bryn Stansberry (17) ACES – Brylee Kelly (1) Kayce Litzau (1) Lily Liekweg (1)

VS. TEMPLE (22-25, 25-21, 25-18, 25-19)

KILLS – Natalie Foster (18)

Brylee Kelly (14) Kailin Newsome (12) DIGS – Kayce Litzau (16) Lily Liekweg (15) Bryn Stansberry (9) ACES – Brylee Kelly (3) Kayce Litzau (3) Kailin Newsome (1)

Kenni Henson closed the fall season on a high note, registering her first top 10 finish of the season at the Little Rock Golf Classic. Henson paced WSU from the opening tee with rounds of even-par (72), 2-over par (74) and 1-over par (73) to tie for 10th place. Her 54-hole score of 219 was also a new career best. As a team, Wichita State placed 10th with a total score of 906, while Central Arkansas won the team title at 4-under par (860). Wichita State will now wait until the spring to return to tournament action. The first tournament will be in New Orleans, Feb. 13-15.

SOFTBALL WRAPS UP FALL SEASON AGAINST OSU The Shockers fell in its final game of the fall season to Oklahoma State, 4-3 in Stillwater. Lauren Mills gave WSU an early 3-0 on a three-run homer but that would be all the offense they would muster. The Cowgirls answered with a grand slam in the bottom of the sixth to take a late lead. OSU’s closer Morgan Day took over on the mound in the seventh and struck out seven and allowed only a single hit in the final four innings to preserve the victory. The Shockers finish the fall season with a 7-1 record in the fall, with all seven victories coming at home. WSU went 1-1 against Division-I opponents including a 5-1 victory against Kansas University.

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Arts & Entertainment

THURSDAY, OCT. 28, 2021 | 8

HAVE A STORY IDEA? contact The Sunflower’s A&E editor, Kyran Crist arts@thesunflower.com

Pumpkin run starts off Homecoming week BY MITCHELL ADAMSON meadamson@wichita.shockers.edu

It was a brisk and lively morning as runners prepared for the annual 5k Pumpkin Run across campus. There was a various assortment of people, young children, high school students, Wichita State students, alumni, and small families that attended. A big blow up Finish line banner waved in the wind as few people started to show up, stretching out, and doing small sprints to get their joints warmed up. Smiling families embraced and talked as their excited children were jumping around in anticipation for the race to start. Registration started within Shocker Hall, as registered runners got their numbers and began to get ready, drinking their energy and power drinks. There was excitement in the air, with many people jumping on their social media to take a quick snapshot of their running attire for all their friends to see. Wu Shock and the Pumpkin Man - a guy wearing a gigantic pumpkin suit - were running around posing for photos with children before the start of the race, as music sounded loud from the speakers near the starting line, and more people began to show up.

As the racers got to the starting line there was a long line that stretched far back from Hubbard Hall to the dining area at the end of Shocker Hall. There was an assortment of serious runners that were trying to catch a PR, with all their fancy running gear, and also fathers and daughters, hands clutched together, running for the memories. The race was led by a man on a bike that would show the rest of the runners the way, with yellow arrows on the ground showing the direction they were to travel across campus on their journey to the finish line (which was the same as where they started). When the countdown started runners got in their positions and then took off in the direction of Charles Koch Arena. Volunteers prepared at the Finish Line with drinks, and snacks, with craft tables full of halloween themed crafts. There was even a pumpkin painting station for the children to engage in when they got done running the race. This was not the only race going on, later on, there was a 1k that was packed with small children in costumes, many who had never participated in a race before. Overall, the event brought in everyone, creating a lively community and fun opportunity to get some exercise in, before Halloween.

PHOTOS BY JORDAN PLOWMAN / THE SUNFLOWER

Particapates came out to enjoy in Wichita State’s annual Homecoming Pumpkin Run on Oct. 23. Participants enjoyed pumpkin painting, yard games, a spooky photo booth, massages, and the 5K and 1K run.

Happy Birthday Wu!

PHOTOS BY LENA ALHALLAQ / THE SUNFLOWER

Students gather to celebrate Wu’s 73rd birthday in the RSC Courtyard on Oct. 25, 2021.

9 | THURSDAY, OCT. 28, 2021

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

PHOTOS BY SEAN MARTY / THE SUNFLOWER

Opera singer Michael Sylvestor sings during the WSU Symphony Orchestra at the Miller Concert Hall on Oct. 27.

WSU Orchestra features renowned opera singer Michael Sylvestor Tuesday night BY MITCHELL ADAMSON meadamson@wichita.shockers.edu

On Tuesday night, the Wichita State University Symphony Orchestra featured the talents of renowned opera singer Michael Sylvestor. Sylvestor has been named one of the two most important tenors of his generation, in an article by USA today. He has also performed at opera houses such as London’s Covent Garden, Milan’s La Scala, Paris Opera, and many others across the world. The symphony came together in celebration of the inauguration of President Rick Muma, the 15th president of Wichita State. Muma has been part of the faculty for more than 25 years, spending many years overseeing Wichita State students. The first piece was Internet Symphony “Eroica,” which brought forth a display of music that was reminiscent of what many of the musicians had gone through in the past few years due to the pandemic. It was a very lively piece, with prominent parts from the bells and slow moving brass. The harp also was very beautiful and notable. The next piece was accompanied by Michael Slyvestor singing Traum duch die Dammerung, which spoke of the serenity of nature and love that was intertwined. Softer in sound, slower in

speed, creating an atmosphere of peace. Zueignung was the next piece sung, with more belting from Sylvestory. It was a bit faster and portrayed a heartbreak that the singer felt, having come across hard times and reckoning with them in a way of gratitude. Besame Mucho’s opening line said “Kiss me, Kiss me so much as if this night were the very last time we would meet.” Written by a woman who wrote not only the lyrics but also the music when she was 16, having never been kissed. In the final piece before intermission Slyvestor was accompanied by not only the orchestra but also by a chorus of Wichita State vocal students. In a fun comedic piece, Slyvestor displayed a lively entertaining piece about being part of the Queen’s Navy. After intermission, there was the presentation of Symphony No. 1 in C minor, by Johannes Brahms. A forty-five minute piece that took 14 years for Brahms to perfect before premiering it. The second and third movements were revised again and again, as Brahms could not find the right sound he wanted. Overall, the presentation brought forth a rich exposé of beauty in introducing President Muma into his presidency.

As part of homecoming festivities, Tuesday night the Wichita State University Symphony Orchestra played featuring the talents of renowned opera singer Michael Sylvestor.

The best and worst candies to get on Halloween Elena Kuckleman Reporter opinion@thesunflower. com

TOP 5 BEST If there is one thing I love most about Halloween, it’s the candy. Of course, as I’ve gotten older, I’ve traded in the childhood tradition of trick-or-treating and opted to stay at home, watching scary movies with a bag of my favorite fun-sized candy bars. Over the years, it has become clear that some Halloween candies are just better than others. Here is my list of the five best types of candy to get on Halloween.

REESE’S PUMPKINS

Although you can’t go wrong with a normal Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup, the pumpkin shape just makes them taste even better. The peanut butter to chocolate ratio is more balanced than the original. Plus they are festive.

SNICKERS

You know the Snickers slogan,

“You’re not you when you’re hungry”? For many of us, that saying holds some truth. But, Snickers are the perfect candy to satisfy your hunger and help you power through the Sunday Scaries you might get, since Halloween falls on a Sunday this year.

SOUR PATCH KIDS

The perfect combination of sour and sweet, Sour Patch Kids give your tastebuds a break from all the chocolate. But, their sour level isn’t too high for those of us that can’t handle the extreme sour candies.

PEANUT M&M’S

With the addition of the peanut, these colorful candies take regular M&M’s to the next level. And, their small size makes them the perfect candy to snack on.

STARBURSTS

For some reason, I never find myself eating a Starburst unless it’s Halloween. However, that one time a year I do try them, I’m reminded that they are a solid candy. (But only referring to the pink and red flavors of course.)

Kyran Crist A&E Editor arts@thesunflower.com

TOP 5 WORST There are plenty of good holidays that are surrounded by food and candies and these holidays produce many great holiday themed foods. Halloween is not one of them. Christmas brings on the sweetness of pepermint, chocolate, gingerbread. Homey and warm foods. Easter has lightly pastel colored robin eggs, marshmallow peeps, and chocolate bunnies. What does Halloween have? Stale misery. Everything is just doused in food coloring and I can’t explain it, but they all have the same musty taste. The chocolates are different I will admit, but the candies are seemingly the worst tasting holiday candies. There are ones worse than others so here is my list of the

top five worst candies to get for Halloween.

CANDY CORN

I will take one for the team and start with the most basic hated Halloween candy. This one just brings back memories of eating one too many and then stuck with a stomach ache. It should be a crime that this candy is what is associated with fall time and Halloween. Exhange it for the fake pumpkin ones and it’s tolerable.

GOOD AND PLENTY

This candy is always forgotten until found in the bottom of a candy bag, it is kind of just there but never appetizing. If one is going to put licorice in the bag just let it be the real stuff, not this pink trickery.

CIRCUS PEANUTS

These candies with their stale taste and their foamy texture are just not it, they certainly try to beat Good and Plenty’s for their spot but they’re taste isn’t as terrible and deciceful, they’re soley judged

off of their terrible texture and the fact that they make no sense for the holiday.

GREEN APPLE EVERYTHING

There is a flavor in the bags of Laffy Taffy that gets sifted and praised this time of year, along with any other green apple sucker or flavored candy. The caramel flavor that sometimes gets added does not fix the flavor, sometimes worsens it. If it were any time of year I could understand how it is accepted, but the explosion of only green apple gets intense.

BLACK LICORICE

This is a grandpa’s candy or something used to stop heartburn, it does not belong in a bag of candy, along with such amazing goodies such as Starbursts. The bitter yet sweet taste ruins the whole thing. But I rank it last because I can see how this one is considered a good candy for a spooky holiday.

10 | THURSDAY, OCT. 28, 2021

Congratulations to

Rick Muma, 15th president of Wichita State University.

Learn more about Dr. Muma at wichita.edu/president

Inauguration: October 29, 2021