Volume 82 No. 3 Milligan College November 17, 2016 www.milliganstampede.com

President-elect Donald Trump causes students to feel anxious about the future, others hopeful for change Tiffany Florian, Staff Reporter | @Tiffytbagirl bert. biggest issues right now is the economy Students and first-time voters say this 45th President of the United States. “Even if you were hoping Trump would and that is his strongest attribute,” he election has not been Although Trump won the mock elec- win, I think we were all surprised,” said. Borchert the most ideal, tion hosted by The Stampede, many Kitchen said said that while but it’s cer- students say they were surprised to Hilbert said what shocked him Trump may tainly been see him do so well in the 2016 presi- most was how many swing states be a good historical. dential election. Trump won over in the election. business- Donald “When I found out, I was just ”I was amazed that he was win- man, he Trump, shocked and concerned,” Elissa ning in narrow margins states that may not the billion- Borchert, a junior, said. do not typically go to Republicans,” be good aire, reality Seth Hilbert, a senior, said he Hilbert said. for the TV star and too was surprised with the elec- Donald Trump won victories in economy. businessman toral college results. Wisconsin, Michigan and Pennsyl- who has never “I definitely thought vania; causing the “blue wall” to go See held political that Hillary was red in this election. Trump, office, will be going to win,” he “I really hoped my home state, Penn- p.2 the said. “She was sylvania, would have come through,” not expecting to Kitchen said. “Unfortunately they lose, and a lot did not, and they have gone red of others didn’t for the first time in a long think she would time.” either.” Trump has reshaped And Ryan the political map, and Kitchen, a se- Hilbert is hoping nior who serves Trump can also re- as president of shape the economy. the Milligan Col- “I think it’s im- lege Democrats, portant to remem- agrees with Hil- ber that one of our

Photo via Michael Vadon Photo via Gage Skidmore Milligan ladies want bins in Cross Country bathroom stalls team sweeps Amanda Florian, Editor in Chief | @Amanda_Florian What do women really want? Trash “It’s like not having soap in bathrooms up awards at cans. Yes, tiny trash cans or bins in or something,” Gemar says. bathroom stalls. Bethany Witherspoon, a freshman “In all public restrooms – anywhere – studying Bible, also finds the situation AAC there are little trash cans you can use “irritating,” because, out of the 18 pub- when you’re on your menstrual cycle,” lic restrooms The Stampede visited on Championships Grace Gemar, a senior studying biolo- Milligan’s campus, only one had a bin gy, says. “Even at the janky gas stations.” for women who are menstruating. The Alyssa Boyer, Staff Reporter | The lack of trash cans in bathroom bin – which sits in between two stalls @swimmerboyer stalls on Milligan’s campus leaves la- – can be found in the Paxson Commu- hind Segrave in titles as he finished his dies either flushing their used feminine nications Center. close race with second overall and a products down the toilet – which has Women use 20 or so tampons while time of 26:18.1, helping the men to win a negative impact on the environment on their cycle and 300-420 tampons the AAC championship meet. and causes damage to the sewage sys- or pads a year, according to The Diva The AAC Championships were not just tem – or carrying them in stealth-like Cup website. So, the women on campus Segrave cruises to a first place in the 5K at the AAC a showcase of our senior buffs talents, fashion to a trash can outside the stall. say bins aren’t only convenient – they’re championships. Photo by Tanner Morris but also a showcase of the new talent “It’s kind of awkward and unhygienic,” necessary. On Nov. 5, the Cross Country Buffs that came to Milligan College this year. Mitchell Marquez, a junior studying Milligan’s Student Government Asso- traveled to Black Mountain, North Car- Freshman Mitch Bronstetter finished Humanities, says. “A lot of girls end up ciation brought the issue to the atten- olina, where they competed in the Ap- in fourth place, only 18 seconds behind using their dorm bathrooms, because tion of the service manager of house- palachian Athletic Conference champi- Tafelsky. Sam Wehner followed in 13th it’s much more convenient.” keeping last spring through a formal onship at Montreat College. place, helping out the men’s team to Women account for 63 percent of the proposal, but there hasn’t been much The top result from the meet was win the championships with another student body at Milligan while men talk about the proposal since. Hannah Segrave, who not only won her top 15 finish. account for only 37 percent, accord- Because the proposal was submitted race by a whopping 19 seconds in front Katlyn Haas secured a top 15 position ing to U.S. News & World Report. For so late into the semester, SGA member of her SCAD Atlanta competitor with as she placed 11th in the women’s race. these ladies, the uncomfortable voyage Somang Lee, who is a political science a time of 17:53.3, but also won for the from stall to restroom hall has become and business sophomore, says many second year in a row AAC Runner of the the “walk of shame.” And Gemar is sur- have just forgotten about it. year. prised this is even an issue on campus. See Period, p. 2 Senior Taylor Tafelsky was right be- See Cross Country, p. 6 WEEKEND FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY WEATHER 73° / 42° 55° / 33° 46° / 25° 2 | POLITICS & NEWS NOVEMBER 17, 2016

Ferguson. This march also touched on Editor’s note ICYMI: A news recap the broader issue of police brutality. Amanda Florian, Editor in Chief | Becca Guthrie, Staff Reporter | @reguth4 “Ouija: Origin of Evil” @Amanda_Florian Nobel Prize for photos and videos. The new Ouija movie hit theaters on Oct. 21. This movie takes place in 1967 Time check: 8:48 p.m. I went for a On Oct. 3, Yoshinori Ohsumi from Ja- Los Angeles with a psychic who obtains drive on Route 67 E. with some of my pan won the Nobel Prize. He was given Clowns Ouija board that allows her to talk to closest college friends. It was a Friday this award for his accomplishments in All through October, stories of clowns the dead. Although this is great for her night, and we were on the hunt for a medicine and research into autophagy. luring people into the woods and stand- psychic business, it also allows a ghost book, an inspirational book. Never- Ohsumi is a cell biologist and professor ing on the sides of roads swept through to possess her 9-year-old daughter. mind the fact that the bookstore was at Tokyo Institute of Technology’s Insti- America. People took caution in order Ouija is rated PG-13 and lasts about 1 set to close in 12 minutes, we were very tute of Innovative Research. to avoid the creepy clowns and stay safe hour and 30 minutes. determined to get the book and to make through the Halloween weekend. it to the store that night. We pulled into New Line of Google Phones Samsung Galaxy Note 7 the parking lot with a few minutes to Google announced its new line of “Ferguson October” The Samsung Galaxy Note 7 is lit, but spare, waltzed into the dimly lit book- products on Oct. 4. The Google Pixel This protesting event brought hun- not in the good way. The new Galaxy store and confidently approached the phone was the most popular piece of dreds of people to the streets of St. Lou- phone quickly made the news with var- two employees. They were taken aback technology to come out of this group. is on Oct. 11. People from all over the ious stories of its battery cell igniting. by our abrupt, Ghostbuster-esque en- The Pixel claims to have the highest world came together to march in sup- trance. After the shock wore off, one rated smart phone camera, a battery port of the 18-year-old boy killed by a See October news, p. 3 proceeded to ask us if he could help us that lasts all day and unlimited storage police officer in the nearby suburb of find anything. “What Keeps You Up At Night?” my over time in order to “soften the budget friend said. Period, from front impact.” With eyes wide open, the two employ- THE STAMPEDE While the proposal hasn’t really been ees suddenly became very quiet, looking page on SGA leaders’ radar this semester, And according to Jason Onks, the di- as if they were deep in thought. I quick- Editor in Chief Onks says the student affairs commit- rector of campus activities, finding a ly jumped in, telling them the complex Amanda Florian tee now plans on reviewing the propos- solution also involves the college com- question was actually the name of the al and will prioritize which bathrooms ing up with the finances to pay for the book we were looking for. The atmo- Assistant Editor “get the first installment of the addi- extra cans. sphere transformed; smiles all around. Jordyn Morel tional cans.” “Housekeeping supported having I later thought about my friend’s ques- Though the ladies hope to see chang- more (trash cans) in the bathrooms tion, however. And even though it was es made soon, they realize this is very Copy Editor but did not have the money,” Onks ex- not meant to be a sort of philosophical much a “first-world feminist issue.” Sarah Carrion plained in an email last Wednesday. or psychological experiment, it was. “I understand other women go SGA leaders decided a cost-effective We may sleep, but do we rest? We toss through much worse,” Gemar says. Social Media Managers plan might mean purchasing trash cans and turn – unable to wake up from the Tiffany Florian nightmare known as reality – as para- Jackie Snyder lyzing thoughts abduct our sense of in- ner peace. Our thoughts on the aftermath of an Analytics and unconventional election, the friend re- Circulation Manager quest that’s still pending or the conver- Kelley Sorenson sation that took place throughout the day all transform our warm beds into cold coffins. Or maybe we’re consumed Ad Manager with thoughts related to our swinging Elissa Borchert GPAs, our nearing graduation dates, our grad school plans, our current and Webmaster future jobs, our imperfect relationships Kennedy Weber or our desire to impress and please those around us. It’s these and other Graphic Designer thoughts that keep us lying in bed ... to Carly Owen ourselves. Because the truth is, we should not Staff Reporters fear the unknown. And we cannot – Maddie Barnett and should not – hide from reality by Alyssa Boyer pulling the covers up, turning the lights Emma Ellis off and hitting the snooze button. Becca Guthrie We must give our minds the chance to Bailey Hight rest, turning the volume of our internal voices down to a soft hum as we pre- pare to dream of solutions and sweet Columnist successes. Brandon Smith In our last print of the semester, you’ll read stories that are light-hearted and Contributors fun as well as stories that are meaty and Shaun Whitson meaningful. My hope, as you chew on Patrick Lines these issues, is that you become aware Amanda Norris of the beautiful and complex world, al- Lily Knott lowing these pieces to act as a midnight Cora Wymer snack of sorts. As you stare blankly at the ceiling, reflecting upon your day, rest knowing that there is indeed much Faculty Adviser to be thankful for. Rest knowing that Jim Dahlman by Amanda Florian, The Stampede the sun will rise again tomorrow.

is concerning. we need right now.” “Whether or not we agree with him is Trump, from front “He doesn’t have the same kind of cre- On the contrary, Borchert said she’s something different, but we should dentials that almost every other pres- worried for the well being of the coun- hope for the best.” page ident has had,” Kitchen said. “Others try under Trump. Kitchen said we should pray for our “I think it’s interesting that people have been to prestigious schools, served “I am concerned for the future of the country’s success with the new presi- equate a good businessman with some- in the military or held public office be- United States, for the economy and for dent, but also make efforts towards suc- one who helps the economy. There is fore, but Trump is a complete outsider.” international relations,” she said. cess by being involved politically. a huge difference between running a But Hilbert believes Trump is the “an- Kitchen said that though his candi- “I think if you really are as bothered as business and running an economy,” she ti-establishment” leader that the coun- date of choice did not win, he is hopeful you say are, you should hold on to that said. try needs. for the best. and put it towards effecting change lo- The businessman is not a traditional “I don’t think he’s the greatest candi- “I think that at this point he is going cally and working towards the state and politician, and – for Kitchen – the pres- date,” he said. “He may not be the ideal to lead our country, so it’s important federal level.” ident-elect’s lack of political experience candidate, but he is someone I feel like that he is advised well,” Kitchen said. 3 | OPINIONS & NEWS NOVEMBER 17, 2016

of college, and she ended her life. Her parents found themselves in mounts of OPINION: The moment Why college guilt as they felt they should have no- ticed the warning signs. What many wish she would have service became all about us students known is that she was not alone. Men- Michaela Dove, Contributor mester has been quite discouraging for tal illness among college students is “Need Service Hours? SFP Provided!!” L.I.N.C. We’ve had students drop out of much more common than we realize. It These are the headlines I use when- the fall festival because they didn’t need should pay is very real and should be treated so. ever I send an email from the L.I.N.C. service hours anymore. We’ve had stu- In a society where students live un- office. We are L.I.N.C., Linking Indi- dents fail to show up at Trunk or Treat attention to der pressure with high expectations to viduals to the Needs of the Commu- after they’d told us they would come. do their best, mental health is often nity, an organization on campus that We’ve even had students attend our pushed to the side. This is especially seeks to inspire students to become ser- SFP events at local nursing homes but their mental true during finals season when grades vant-leaders in their neighborhood. play on their phones instead of inter- become a priority. Sadly, we’ve moved far from that acting with the residents. Mental illness such as depression, dream. All of this makes me wonder ... how health anxiety and grief has a tendency to be The truth is, I use headlines with “ser- did we get here? Bailey Hight, Staff Reporter | viewed as taboo or a stigma. Everyone vice hours” and “SFP” in the title, be- I wish I had a solution to transform @baileydhight knows it exists, but no one really talks cause I know they will work. We have our campus mindset, but I don’t. I just about it. Very few are aware how much want us to start thinking: At what point Her life looked ideal. She was a star of a reality it is. to provide students with incentives to track and soccer athlete, brilliant, loved serve or they won’t come. But when did did service become all about us? Ser- Senior Mattie Milliken shared her vice should be a lifestyle, because we by so many, and surrounded by a sup- thoughts about mental health and said service become all about what we can portive family of seven. But on Jan. 17, get out of it? Shouldn’t it be about what care for the needs of our brothers and mental illnesses are often shrugged sisters. I long for the day when it excites 2014, University of Pennsylvania fresh- off with a simple response like, “I’ll be we can give to the community? men found herself too overwhelmed to Let me explain what I mean. This se- us simply for this reason. praying for you.” deal with the pressures and demands See Mental health, p. 4

open-minded about the results of this One by one, lives are turned to Christ. October election (from what I have seen).The No president can do that with presiden- OPINION: Our source of my anger does not come from tial power. No senator can do that with this school and these people. legislation. It’s not the government’s job news, from p. 2 Rather, the source of my anger comes to save people or to even introduce peo- Samsung announced shortly after that godless from many Christians who say that by ple to Christ. It’s Christians’ job. they were stopping sales of the galaxy electing Trump, America is saved from Wasn’t it under the oppressive, poly- note and the U.S. Consumer Product it’s godless ways. theistic Roman government that Chris- Safety Commission (CPSC) warned government My friends, Trump will not save this tianity grew? That wasn’t because consumers to power off the phone and Kennedy Weber, Staff Reporter | country. Clinton will not save this Cesar said Christianity was great and not use it. country. The Republican, Democratic, enforced laws that everyone had to MacBook Pro @xoxkennedyxo Libertarian, Constitutional and Green be Christian – or else. Actually, what The new MacBook Pro, which is faster If you’re like me and have paid atten- parties will not save this country. Not happened was way more effective and more powerful than before, was an- tion to the news and to any social me- a single person on this earth has the than forcing people into converting to nounced on Oct. 27. The new MacBook dia, you should be disgusted; disgusted power to save a country. No law damns Christianity. Individuals had their lives is thinner and lighter, has the brightest, with America; angry with how people a country to Hell, just as no law sends it transformed by Jesus through other in- most colorful Mac notebook display have reacted and how people are react- to heaven. Countries and political par- dividuals. They couldn’t hold it back – ever, and has a new touch bar. Apple ing to reactions. ties do not go to heaven — souls do. they had to share. And pure, authentic used the touch bar as their biggest sell- First off, I will proudly say that I Instead of generalizing an entire group Christianity was the result. ing point. The multi-touch enabled love this school. While Milligan may of people (something everyone should It’s not our government’s job to pro- strip of glass built into the keyboard al- have things I don’t agree with, this refrain from), why not focus on individ- mote Christ. It’s ours. lows for instant access to certain tools, community is loving, supportive and uals? One by one, we share the gospel. such as emojis. 4 | COMMUNITY NOVEMBER 17, 2016

Life-hacks every college student should Mental know Emma Ellis, Staff Reporter health, from p. 3 Sometimes the answers to life’s most don’t have access to a kitchen or are 4. Fold clothes vertically in drawers “While that is foundational and im- frustrating annoyances can be found not in the mood for cooking in one, Anyone else find themselves search- portant, it needs more intentional at- right in front of us. Yet often we don’t there are some easy recipes which can ing aimlessly through their drawer for tention,” Milliken said. see that the solutions to our problems be made in a dorm room a matter of a shirt they know for a fact is hidden in So, why is mental illness so common can be solved with things right under- minutes. The microwave can be an in- there somewhere? One easy life-hack among college students anyway? neath our noses. Living in a small space credible tool in making fast food such that’s often overlooked is folding your Dr. Shauna Nefos Webb, a professor like a dorm room can often be cramped as mug cakes or scrambled eggs. Even shirts vertically rather than the typi- of counseling and psychology at Milli- at best, so here are five “life-hacks” ev- your coffee maker can be used to heat cal horizontal fold. By organizing your gan, said that “traditional aged college ery college student should know. Hope- hot water and cook things like pasta, shirts in a line it makes it easier to find students are in a transitional period of fully, these tips make your busy life a hot dogs or cheese dip. and fit in a drawer. development, which brings some chal- little bit easier. lenges, like trying to figure out one’s 3. Need to hang it? Stick to command 5. Freshen up your dorm with car air identity and belief systems while also 1. Use a shoe organizer for storage hooks fresheners trying to figure out a career path.” This tried and true life-hack uses Nearly every self-respecting college Let’s be honest--college dorms are not It’s no wonder college is such a hard something as simple as a shoe organizer student has discovered the amazing in- always the most glamorous. The smell time. Students are in a stage in devel- and makes it an easy way to de-clutter a vention of the command hook. These of old food sitting in your trashcan opment that is so critical and formative cramped space. Hang it on the back of little hooks come in tons of different which hasn’t been taken out for a week to who they become, and the pressures your shower door to store beauty and sizes and can be hung almost anywhere or the bathroom which hasn’t been of that fact alone along with maintain- cleaning supplies or over your door to without damaging your walls. Use them cleaned since move-in day, may start to ing an acceptable GPA leaves them very store snacks. This is a cheap and easy to hang your towel on the back of your take over your space. For those of you vulnerable to mental illnesses. way to take some of those miscella- bathroom door, mount a painting on who don’t always have time for a deep Webb also added that “our mental neous items laying around your room your wall, or virtually anything else you clean, one easy life-hack is putting car health is just as important as our phys- and organize them in one place. may need them for. Although it seems air fresheners which usually go over the ical health.” simple, picking up a box of command car air-conditioning vents over the air It is important that students pay atten- 2. Use your coffee maker to its full hooks the next time you are out may be vents in your room. tion to themselves, emotionally, men- potential one of the best purchases you make for tally and physically, especially during Feeling sick of cafeteria food? If you a while. times of high stress. And self-care can vary person to person. A student, for Place the tea bag in a large mug. Pour example, might meet with a counselor, boiling water on top and let steep for take a hike or do something creative. two to three minutes. Stir in the milk Depression and anxiety are very much and sugar. Sprinkle a pinch of Carda- a reality and should not be ignored, but mom on top. rather cared for and taken seriously. As finals quickly approach, keep your- Sweet Potato Casserole self as a priority. Your health is of more importance than your GPA. Take time Ingredients: to destress and surround yourself with Filling people who will support you. 5 cups mashed sweet potatoes “If you need help, tell somebody. I 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted) know it can be scary, but there are many 1/2 cup milk in this community who want to support 1 cup brown sugar you,” says Webb. 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 1/4 teaspoon salt of the pancake bubbles and flip to cook 2 large eggs until golden brown. Topping 1/2 cup all-purpose flour Hot Chocolate Cookies 1 cup brown sugar, packed 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted Ingredients: 5 autumn recipes we’re 1 ¼ cup chopped pecans 1 stick of butter (1/2 cup) 3/4 cup bittersweet chocolate baking falling for this season Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Bake chips sweet potatoes until tender. Cool, peel 1 1/4 cups brown sugar Tiffany Florian, Staff Reporter | @Tiffytbagirl and mash. Stir in butter, milk, sugar, 3 eggs vanilla, salt and eggs. Pour into 9 x 13 There’s something about the chill of 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats 1/4 teaspoon salt dish. autumn that creates a great desire to 1/3 cup unsalted butter (melted) 1/4 cup dark chocolate cocoa powder Topping: Mix together flour, sugar, indulge in something sweet. Maybe 1/2 cup chopped walnuts 1 3/4 cups flour butter, and pecans and spread over the it’s the crisp autumn air or the way the 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 1/2 teaspoon baking powder sweet potato mixture. Cook for approx- leaves fall that make an average walk 1/8 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon vanilla extract imately 25-30 minutes. feel as if you are walking through a cur- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. 8 ounces of dark chocolate tain of red and orange bliss. Or maybe 12 marshmallows it’s the comforting food that seems to Filling: Combine all filling ingredients warm our hearts, fills our homes with in a large bowl and spoon into a 9-inch In a small bowl, melt butter and bak- Gluten-Free Pumpkin Pancakes the aroma of cinnamon and our tum- pie dish. ing chips in microwave at 15-second mies with something sweet. Topping: Whisk the sugar, flour and intervals, stirring often until ingredi- Ingredients: oats together; add butter, cinnamon, ents are combined. Allow chocolate 1 1/2 cup gluten free flour Here are five fall recipes you can im- salt and walnuts and whisk to form to cool. In a large bowl cream togeth- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin press your friends with: crumble. er brown sugar, eggs and vanilla until 1/2 cup milk Sprinkle topping over filling and bake smooth and add to chocolate mixture. 1/2 cup water Apple of my Eye (Apple Crisp) for 30-35 minutes. Allow to cool 10-15 In a separate bowl combine flour, cocoa 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract minutes. powder, baking powder and salt. Com- 2 tablespoon sugar Ingredients: (For a gluten-free version, substitute bine dry ingredients with wet ingredi- 1 large egg Filling flour with Bob’s Red Mill Gluten Free 1 ents into mixture. Cover the bowl with 2 tablespoon melted coconut oil 4 large apples (peeled, cored and sliced to 1 baking flour and rolled oats for glu- plastic wrap and refrigerate for two ½ cup butter into thin wedges) ten-free certified oats.) hours. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. 2 teaspoons lemon juice Roll the dough into 2-inch balls. Flat- In a medium bowl, mix together flour 1/3 cup maple syrup Chai Love You a Latte ten slightly and bake for 10 minutes. and cinnamon. In a small bowl, whisk 1/3 cup granulated sugar Cut marshmallows in half and top each together the pumpkin, milk, water, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Ingredients: cookie with a chunk of chocolate and egg, sugar and coconut oil. Combine 1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch 1 Chai tea bag half a marshmallow. Cook for another 3 wet and dry ingredients. Heat a small 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 2/3 cup of boiling water minutes until marshmallow has puffed. amount of oil on a nonstick pan and Topping 1/3 cup almond milk Allow cookies to cool on a baking sheet using a 1/4 measuring cup, scoop the 1/3 cup brown sugar 1 tablespoon white sugar and enjoy! batter onto the pan. Cook until the top 1/4 cup flour 1 pinch of cardamom 5 | COMMUNITY NOVEMBER 17, 2016

5 ways to celebrate Thanksgiving even if you’re stuck on campus Maddie Barnett, Staff Reporter Go to church people, and includes a roasted turkey That’s right--some churches in the area breast, a variety of sides, and dessert. are welcoming those in the community But if that’s not in your college budget, to join them for a Thanksgiving meal. try an entree or appetizer from their Beginning at 1 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. main menu or pay a visit to one of your 24, Hopwood Memorial Church will favorite restaurants. host a free potluck-style Thanksgiving dinner right on campus. The church Crash your friend’s party has often welcomed Milligan students There are tons of local students who to this event in past years. would be happy to include you in their Thanksgiving celebration, so be sure to Go to a professor’s house ask around! Milligan is known for its tight-knit community. Chances are, one or two of Last resort: Have Thanksgiving your professors will invite you and your shipped to you friends over for some homestyle cook- The online service Send a Meal will ing. deliver a frozen Thanksgiving dinner for 4 wherever you want for $80. The Visit your favorite restaurant meal usually arrives between 3-10 busi- With at least 24-hour notice, Cracker ness days after ordering, but 3-day, Barrel will offer both pre-cooked and 2-day, and next-day shipping options take-and-bake Thanksgiving meals be- are available for an extra fee. The meal tween Tuesday, Nov. 22 and Thursday, comes frozen in an insulated package Nov. 24. The $100 meal serves up to 10 filled with dry ice to ensure freshness and quality. 6 | ENTERTAINMENT & SPORTS NOVEMBER 17, 2016

REVIEW: ‘Jack Reacher: Never Go Back’ begins with promise, then dives headfirst into generic blockbuster territory Brandon Smith, Columnist | @brandons19941 Jack Reacher must uncover the truth Cruise reprises Reacher in behind a major government conspiracy spectacular fashion. The in order to clear his name. On the run writing is a little rough as a fugitive from the law, Reacher un- here and there, but it’s covers a potential secret from his past nothing unbearable. The that could change his life forever. story, on the other hand, is absurd at times, at least in Director: Edward Zwick this adaptation of Child’s Starring: Tom Cruise, Cobie Smulders, generally well-received Aldis Hodge novel. It doesn’t’ come off Rated PG-13 for sequences of violence as genuine on screen, and and action, some bloody images, lan- this could be due to the guage and thematic elements surprising lack of char- acter development. The The 2012 “Jack Reacher” release was main secondary character decent. Not great, mind you, but de- of the film is introduced cent. It was an above-average action within the first five min- flick that benefited tremendously from utes of the film, and we are Tom Cruise’s performance as the clever, automatically thrust into tough-as-nails titular character. Adapt- her world and her prob- ed from the ninth book in Lee Child’s lems without much to go Jack Reacher series, “One Shot,” it al- on. Things are revealed lowed Cruise to showcase his talent in throughout the next half- a new way. Having previously starred hour or so, but we are in the “Mission: Impossible” films, Tom supposed to be rooting Cruise is certainly no stranger to play- for Reacher, and it’s hard ing leads in action movies, but “Jack to do so when we have no Reacher” feels different. The character idea what to think about came across as a mix between the emo- what’s unfolding on the tionally distant Max from “Mad Max” screen. Is it all a smoke- and Bryan Mills from “Taken.” screen? Is Jack Reacher The hardest aspect of producing an correct in his incredibly action film these days is connecting to bold assumptions and on- audiences on an emotional level. With the-spot decision-mak- filmmakers like Michael Bay, who seem ing? to churn out headache-inducing, ex- “Jack Reacher: Never Go plosion-laden extravaganzas, those Back” isn’t the worst film like Zack Snyder, who directed “Man of the year, but it’s certain- of Steel,” or Joe Carnahan, “The Grey,” ly a significant step down have attempted to present thought-pro- from its predecessor. voking stories while also attaining Gone is the lone ranger of enough visual spectacle to satisfy the action. Instead, the film average moviegoer. However, directors forces us to like characters like Snyder and Carnahan seem to have because it’s what the sto- more respect for the audience’s intelli- ry calls for, and since the gence, and refuse to resort to loud nois- film cannot justify their es and flashing lights to keep viewers likability, things are up in entertained. “Jack Reacher: Never Go the air for a large portion Back” director Edward Zwick attempts of the film, the character to find some middle ground here. development nearly non- While it’s difficult to walk the fine line existent. The character of between emotional resonance and vi- Jack Reacher, already es- sual splendor, it’s quite clear that “Jack tablished by the previous Reacher: Never Go Back” is not only film as a man who works via Paramount Pictures incapable of doing so, but it can’t even alone, even comes off as a walk on solid ground. The first half- little uneven at times, but this is largely to Reacher just a tad too well. Unfortu- can’t live up to the first film, and hope- hour of the film feels exactly like the because the secondary characters relate nately, “Jack Reacher: Never Go Back” fully Reacher will stay retired for good. original “Jack Reacher.” Then, Reach- er’s personal life becomes too much of the film’s focus, and instead of us- Cross coun- ing this to push the story along, it be- comes the story, and the film suddenly turns into an overly-sentimental mess. try, from front page Adapted from the 18th book in Child’s The men’s team had great results as book series, titled “Never Go Back,” it’s Tafelsky, Bronstetter and Brandon Ellis very confusing as to why, out of every all made the All-Conference team, with other Reacher novel written, this one freshmen Bronstetter and Wehner also was singled out. Perhaps it was chosen qualifying for the All-Freshman team. because it was the first released follow- The women’s team also had great re- ing the film? It’s not entirely clear, but sults as our AAC champion Hannah this Reacher story obviously reads bet- Segrave took home Runner of the Year. ter on paper, and perhaps that’s where Sarah Kate Gartman, JJ Robinson and it belongs. Amber Grello made the All-Confer- Zwick directed “Glory,” “Blood Dia- ence team, while Haas qualified for the mond,” and “Pawn Sacrifice,” all three of All-Freshman team. which received either generally positive Head coach Chris Layne was recog- reviews or substantial critical acclaim. nized as the AAC Coach of the year for All three films deserve their praise. the second year in a row. “Jack Reacher: Never Go Back,” unfor- Both teams will finish their fall sea- tunately, fell in the hands of Zwick, and sons at the NAIA National Champion- now this title will haunt his filmography ship meet at Principia College, St. Louis forever. Perhaps it’s not his fault alone. in two weeks time. Men’s XC Team huddles before taking off in the 8K at the AAC championship. Photo by Tanner Morris 7 | ENTERTAINMENT & SPORTS NOVEMBER 17, 2016

come true for many gamers. There are add support to this theory, the video many factors that could be an issue. also features major games such as NBA OPINION: Will Nintendo be Will the device’s battery life be short 2K17 and The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim in portable mode? Will the accesso- Special Edition. These are series from ries featured in the video be included developers that have primarily only fea- able to switch into high or sold separately? Will the device use tured their games on consoles that can the older Nvidia Tegra X1 processor or handle higher frame rates in high defi- gear? Shaun Whitson, Contributor | @whitson_shaun a soon-to-be-released updated version? nition. Nintendo has officially announced the completely lose their remaining con- Will third-party developers finally con- More information is expected to be Nintendo Switch. Way back in March fidence in Nintendo and the company tribute their featured series? A new re- announced on Jan 12, 2017, and the of 2015, Nintendo confirmed they would be forced to sell their franchis- port also says that the device could sup- official launch is set for March of 2017. were working on a project called the es. The Switch could quite possibly be port micro-SD cards for memory and In an interview with Bloomberg, an an- “NX.” Countless rumors have spread the last hope for Nintendo to remain a USB Type-C for charging. In making alyst projected that the console would about this console over the previous frontrunner. these an option, it will make the device sell most effectively at $250. However, year-and-a-half. This project began as The console is being marketed as a more universally compatible, leading to GameStop’s UK website accidentally an idea from the now deceased CEO gaming device that is both a portable further expandability. posted a preorder page for the console Satoru Iwata and very well could have and home console. The promotional The promotional release video also at £399, which is approximately $500. been the last project he had involve- release video features the device as be- features mostly young adults which, If the anticipation is killing you to get ment with. In my opinion, this console ing similar to a tablet with two control- to me, is interesting. This is because a new console before this Christmas, will do one of two things. Either this lers attached to the sides that resemble throughout much of Nintendo’s histo- Nintendo just released the NES Classic console will be an immense success, smaller versions of the Wii’s motion ry they have focused on advertising to Edition for $59.99 on Nov. 11, which bringing Nintendo back to the top, or controllers. They are detachable and families and children. This focus on includes 30 NES classics such as The this console’s sales could be even lower there is also a separate, more tradition- young adults could represent that Nin- Legend of Zelda, Metroid, Final Fan- than that of the Wii U’s. If the company al gamepad controller available. To an tendo plans to pursue a demographic tasy, Galaga, Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, faces increasingly low sales, fans could extent, the device sounds like a dream that takes gaming more seriously. To and Super Mario Bros. REVIEW: ‘Hacksaw Ridge’ is powerful and thought-provoking, Mel Gibson’s finest directorial work since ‘Braveheart’ Brandon Smith, Columnist | @brandons19941 faces the charges against him with from what he believes in, even when the courage and conviction. Garfield’s per- entire world seems to be pitted against World War II American Army medic obliged to follow in his footsteps and formance is full of emotion, and it could him. Mel Gibson understands the im- Desmond T. Doss, who served during serve his country. Much to his father’s have easily been overplayed by anyone portance of Dobson’s story, and never the Battle of Okinawa, refuses to kill dismay and – amid a romance he has else. But Garfield knows what he’s do- allows the film to come off as a black- people and becomes the first conscien- formed with a nurse from the nearby ing and this is evident. We feel what he and-white portrayal of right and wrong, tious objector in American history to be hospital – he leaves for basic training. feels, and there’s almost nothing to dis- but instead presents a simple, albeit awarded the Medal of Honor. Desmond, who is deeply religious, re- like about Dobson as a person. Garfield conventional, story that focuses more fuses to even touch a weapon during his plays Dobson in such a way that it’s in- on what Dobson believes in personally. Director: Mel Gibson training, which infuriates his superiors, credibly easy to root for him. However “Hacksaw Ridge” is not for the faint of Starring: Andrew Garfield, Sam wishing only to serve as a medic on the sympathetic the audience may feel to- heart. The films that Mel Gibson has di- Worthington, Luke Bracey battlefield. This sets into motion pro- wards Dobson and his personal trials, rected are, for whatever reason, incred- Rated R for intense prolonged realisti- ceedings for a court-martial that will “Hacksaw Ridge” is still a complex film ibly violent. Anyone who has seen “The cally graphic sequences of war violence shake his faith to its very core. that tackles some difficult subject mat- Passion of the Christ” will tell you that including grisly bloody images “Hacksaw Ridge” feels very conven- ter. After all, the film is largely a story it’s an excruciating experience, even for tional at times. The film doesn’t pull any of faith and, at times, that of personal those not emotionally attached to the It’s been a full decade since Mel Gib- punches, and the story is very straight- conflict. subject matter. It’s a brutal watch, as son directed his last film, “Apocalypto,” “Hacksaw Ridge” Jesus Christ is tortured, humiliated and which portrayed the declining state of takes its time. Char- crucified in graphic detail. “Apocalypto” the Mayan kingdom and one man’s at- acter development is also extremely violent. Characters are tempt to survive after being captured is key here. The decapitated, people are vividly beaten for one of their sacrifices. Gibson has film’s message is to death, and gore is a common visual. starred in a plethora of notable films, powerful, and this “Hacksaw Ridge” is no different. It’s a including “Mad Max,” “Lethal Weapon,” is accomplished by war film, and in apparently typical Mel “The Patriot,” “We Were Soldiers” and allowing the au- Gibson fashion, there’s lots of gruesome “Signs.” But in 1993, Gibson decided to dience to see the imagery. But it’s important to note that direct his own film, and he launched characters interact this is necessary to accurately describe his directorial career with “The Man with one another what the soldiers of World War II must Without a Face.” He continued to direct in confrontational have been going through mentally and and – in 1995 – Gibson’s “Braveheart” situations, and how what they did go through physically. won the Academy Award for Best Mo- they treat Desmond “Hacksaw Ridge” is exceptional. It’s tion Picture of the Year. In 2004, Gib- as a conscientious easily Mel Gibson’s best directori- son directed one of the most controver- objector is the most al effort, and tops the Oscar-winning sial films of all time, “The Passion of the important aspect of “Braveheart” by a mile, though it’s un- Christ,” which detailed the final hours this. The motiva- likely to win the award for Best Motion of the life of Jesus Christ. Following tions of each char- Picture of the Year from the Academy. “Apocalypto,” Gibson stepped into the acter are quite clear, Hopefully, it will be nominated in that dark, and practically disappeared from so “Hacksaw Ridge” category, and Gibson for Best Achieve- public view. He then made a comeback isn’t very engaging ment in Directing. There’s little to of sorts by starring in the 2010 film when it comes to dislike about this film. It’s a moving “Edge of Darkness” after his four-year what the characters tribute to the real-life Dobson, and to absence, following that up with several necessarily think of those who risked their lives to defend roles over the years. Gibson has played Desmond, but rath- our freedoms. Garfield’s performance is it relatively safe these past few years, er how they respond Oscar-worthy, though its presence in a but he’s entering the directing scene to their own initial year full of incredible performances is again with “Hacksaw Ridge,” arguably judgment of him, bad news for this film regarding awards his finest directorial work. and whether their season. “Hacksaw Ridge” is powerful, its As a young boy, Desmond T. Doss via Paramount Pictures opinion changes message timeless. Gibson’s film deliv- grew up in the Blue Ridge Mountains forward. Surprisingly enough, direc- throughout the rest of the film. ers on so many levels, and anyone who of Virginia, alongside his brother. Both tor Mel Gibson balances sentimental- The most extraordinary aspect of wants to experience a heart-wrenching, were subject to abuse from their alco- ity and sincere human emotion into a “Hacksaw Ridge” is that the film is a thoroughly engaging and thought-pro- holic father, a man scarred by his expe- seamless whole, never allowing melo- true story. There are several events voking film should not miss out on this. riences from World War I. Desmond’s drama to take center stage. Instead, he in the film that will simply take your mother is also subject to his drunken allows it to linger in the background, breath away. What Desmond can do outbursts, and this deeply upsets him. which allows things to come off as more as a human being, against all odds, is After his brother enlists in the military natural and less forced. Dobson, played fascinating. His moral character is out- during World War II, Desmond feels exceptionally well by Andrew Garfield, standing and he refuses to back down 8 | ODDS & ENDS NOVEMBER 17, 2016

Down 1. a large bird that often makes an appearance or two during the holidays (No, not that one.) 2. the one dessert no one wants to eat Across 3. family members gather ‘round the ____. This is typically found in the living room 1. a popular saying from your favorite 4. a popular warm holiday drink nanny played by Julie Andrews 5. the holiday that (pretty much) begins the day after Thanksgiving 2. outdoor activity involving family-- 6. a synonym for thankful bruising may occur! 7. an orange-colored casserole 8. often placed inside the turkey 9. a nickname for the month in which men grow their beards. Razors are a rarity 10. a character who sports a zigzag on his yellow shirt. He’s often featured in comic strips, holiday films and more 11. the perfect match for mashed potatoes, bread and everything else on your plate 12. a sound that notifies you of your guests’ arrival 13. utensils that often shine 14. your grandparents almost always have questions about their electronic devices or other ____ by Maddie Barnett, The Barnett, Stampede by Maddie