The Oakland Post 10.19.22

lsantos@oakland.edu

EDITORIAL BOARD

Gabrielle Abdelmessih Editor-in-Chief gabdelmessih@oakland.edu

Tori Coker Content Editor toricoker@oakland.edu

Megan Parker Managing Editor meganparker@oakland.edu

EDITORS

Sophie Hume Co Photo Editor sophiahume@oakland.edu

Christopher Estrada Co-Photo Editor cestrada@oakland.edu

Brock Heilig Sports Editor brockheilig@oakland.edu

Arianna Heyman Features Editor aheyman@oakland.edu

Joe Zerilli Campus Editor jzerilli@oakland.edu

Gabby Gappy SciTech Editor gabriellegappy@oakland.edu

Bella Javier Arts Editor isabellajavier@oakland.edu

DISTRIBUTION

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Davis Distributor

ADVISING

Garry Gilbert Editorial Adviser gjgilber@oakland.edu 248.370.2105

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GABRIELLE ABDELMESSIH

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

East Campus development questions answered, timeline provided

JOE ZERILLI Campus Editor

Mike Westfall, the vice president of University Advancement, sat down with The Oakland Post to assist in providing transparency for the potential East Campus development by answering questions and establishing a timeline.

During 2018 and 2019, options were beginning to be explored for potential ways to use the space known as East Campus. Westfall then took over, and a market study was completed in late 2020/ early 2021 to see what the market said was the best use for the space.

The East Campus project discussion group was formed in March and April of 2022, which led to the stakeholder group whose goal is to provide feedback and assist in the process. Other groups involved include the OU Work Group, Board of Trustees (BOT) Work Group and several campus community groups like Campus Alliance for Sustainability and the Environment (CASE), Campus Development Environmental Committee and the Senate Steering Committee.

The conclusion of the study found the market for multi-family housing and the market for hotels and hospitality to be strong. The study also highlighted a strong market for an indoor performing arts center. With this analysis, the university wants to ensure if something does get built on East Campus, it ties into Oakland University’s values.

“From a mission standpoint, it needs to tie in directly or indirectly into the mission — which is tough,” Westfall said. “From a culture standpoint, whatever is done there needs to draw the campus to the corner, and it needs to draw the community to the corner. There are a lot of cool things on that side of campus, and it needs to compliment those things and bring people in together.”

Westfall also said preservation and sustainability are components potential developers must consider. Every potential developer has been told to protect the wooded areas — like TreeRunner — and they have each pledged their commitment to do so.

Sustainability has been a large concern for many students, faculty and alumni surrounding this development. Westfall said sustainability strategies

are critical. Recently, President Ora Pescovitz and others held a Sustainability Awareness Rally on campus which welcomed protestors who pushed for sustainability to be a large part of whatever comes of East Campus.

“I appreciate the passion — I’m all for sustainability,” Westfall said. “I’ve done sustainability work in the past.”

Westfall is planning to meet with Oakland University’s Student Congress (OUSC) in October to discuss the current timeline of the project and how the conversations with developers have gone thus far. He will meet again with OUSC in November to obtain feedback on the project and provide another round of updates.

The Request for Qualifications (RFQ) submissions were due on Aug. 15, with OU subsequently reviewing those interested in the process and making sure they were qualified. This process brought it down to five developers who must submit a Request for Proposal (RFP) by Nov. 23.

Finalists will be selected in December, and January will be used solely for obtaining feedback from all groups through an open house — which will seek to hear community feedback, as well. The potential final step will be in February when everything is presented to the BOT for approval.

The project must be able to support the university financially, but it has to be a high enough amount to make sense for the university to even go forward with the plan.

“It will generate revenue that can be used to support the university in other areas. How much that is and what that money would support, I don’t know,” Westfall said. “That’s the point of going through the proposals, because if it doesn’t pencil out and if what the university has to give up is too much, then it’s not worth it — but at least we’ll have run it out.”

Questions regarding whether or not now is a good time to look into developing East Campus due to the university’s enrollment and budget going down are commonly asked. But Westfall said those are reasons why the university wishes to explore these ideas.

“We have to be creative in exploring additional revenue opportunities, but it has to fit in and address

all those other areas,” he said. “If we wanted to just sell it to the highest bidder, there would be a Costco there — but that’s not what we want to do. We want to create revenue that’s reasonable, and reasonable means that it has to check a lot of boxes. If it doesn’t, then it’s not worth doing.”

Westfall has said he wants to make sure the students are involved in the process from a feedback standpoint, and also down the road to potentially have engineering students and design students part of the execution process.

As more information becomes available and updates happen, Westfall said he wants to be as transparent as possible.If it doesn’t, then it’s not worth doing.”

Westfall has said he wants to make sure the students are involved in the process from a feedback standpoint, and also down the road to potentially have engineering students and design students part of the execution process.

As more information becomes available and updates happen, Westfall said he wants to be as transparent as possible.

PHOTO BY THE OAKLAND POST

Mike Westfall, the vice president of University Advancement, sat down with The Oakland Post to assist in providing transpar ency for the potential East Campus development by answering questions and establishing a timeline.

Grizzlies for Choice presents ‘How to Talk About Abortion’

PAYTON BUCKI Campus Reporter

The Grizzlies for Choice (GFC) student organization hosted its “How to Talk About Abortion” event in the Lake Michigan Room of the Oakland Center (OC) on Oct. 13. The informative meeting focused on teaching students how to talk about abortion in an inclusive way without perpetuating harmful stigma.

Attendees were welcomed to the event and encouraged to take coloring pages and Planned Parenthood-provided free condoms and educational materials.

Grizzlies for Choice President Mags Rose began the event by setting boundaries to create a safe, welcoming environment for all students to freely learn and engage.

“This is a safe space,” Rose said. “We welcome individuals of all identities and beliefs, but if they become distrustful, we will ask them to leave.”

Rose also pointed out the importance of GFC’s limited supply of condoms, which they are able to supply to students for free. She urged everyone to be respectful of the resource, as many individuals are uncomfortable or unable to buy condoms themselves.

After the ground rules were established, Hannah Brendle — the

GFC’s social media coordinator — began the presentation by providing general advice. She explained that it is imperative to be inclusive and mindful when discussing abortion.

“Don’t be afraid to talk about the topic of abortion, but pay attention to the words you use,” Brendle said. “For example — as an alternative to ‘pro-life,’ we like to use ‘antiabortion,’ which is more clear and accurate phrasing.”

It was also recommended that individuals avoid qualifying pregnancy with the word “unintended,” as this word choice can be perceived as invasive by many. The simple term “pregnancy” is sufficient.

Presenters explained that when talking about abortion to someone who may have gone through the experience themselves, it can be harmful to use the phrase “I support abortion, but I would never…” This can make the person feel extremely uncomfortable and judged for their actions.

“Explaining your ideology on abortion to someone who has experienced one makes it seem like you are not a safe person to talk to,” GFC Vice President Katie Kramer said. “Be an ally.”

One commonly overlooked aspect of conversations surrounding abortions is a gendered language. Women-focused language can leave

other identities underrepresented and excluded from these discussions.

“It is important to refrain from using gendered terms, because more people have the ability to carry a pregnancy than just women,” Kramer said. “Through gender swaps — such as using the phrase ‘reproductive rights’ instead of ‘women’s rights’ — we can correct this issue.”

Many common symbols used by advocates for reproductive rights with good intentions can be severely harmful to the community. For example, the use of a coat hanger to represent unsafe abortion access can be triggering and make individuals fearful of abortions.

“Confronting stigma can be uncomfortable — it should be,” Rose said. “There is not one kind of person that gets abortions. Everyone deserves access to safe and legal abortions.”

At the end of the presentation, GFC urged attendees to vote yes on Michigan’s Proposal 3 and attend future educational events hosted by the organization. To conclude, students were given the chance to win candy by hitting a handmade piñata shaped like a uterus.

“This was my first GFC event that I was able to attend this year, and I was pleasantly surprised,” Oakland University sophomore Ethan Lehman-Pace said. “The topics covered in the presentation were

extremely interesting and useful.”

GFC will be hosting their next event, a Sexual Wellness Carnival, on Oct. 27 from 3-5 p.m. in the Gold Ambassador Rooms of the OC. Students will be able to learn more about sexual wellness resources offered on campus and have the chance to win several sex-positive prizes.

PHOTO BY @PPGAOU ON INSTAGRAM

Grizzlies for Choice is a student-led organiza tion that is a chapter of Planned Parenthood Generation Action (PPGA). The group focuses on educating students about reproductive autonomy and sexual health while advocating for change within the community.

Raised beds completed at Campus Student Organic Farm

PAYTON BUCKI Campus Reporter

Oakland University’s Campus Student Organic Farm (CSOF) celebrated the completion of their raised beds project on Oct. 12 inside the farm’s hoop house. Several student volunteers and organizations collaborated to build the raised beds after heavy machinery compacted the soil inside the hoop house beyond usability.

“Because of the soil compaction, we couldn’t plant anything in the newly renovated section of the hoop house,” CSOF Director Fay Hansen said. “It was absolutely devastating.”

After the hoop house expansion, Hansen and the rest of the CSOF workers were stuck in a dilemma. They had ample space to plant additional crops in their hoop house, yet the soil conditions could not support plant life.

Hansen got crafty with the space, using the area to dry Amaranthus, place hanging baskets and store tools. However, she believed that raised beds could be useful in the space.

Over the summer, Hansen had OU Student Congress (OUSC) Student Body President Andrew Romano as a student in her Permaculture (Bio 3362) summer class. After learning about the hoop house issue, Romano was eager to help.

“There were a lot of student organizations that had unused summer funding,” Romano said. “We

reached out to these clubs to see if they would be willing to donate to the project.”

OUSC, in collaboration with Growing Grizzlies, Young Democratic Socialists of Oakland University, Leaders for Environmental Wellness and Protection and HOMES, raised $17,000 in donations to make the project possible. Out of the donated money, OUSC contributed a sizeable amount of $8,000.

Throughout the summer, students from Pontiac visited the farm to build the beds. CSOF workers and volunteers also provided assistance, making the project a collaborative, community effort.

On Oct. 12, OUSC and Growing Grizzlies members visited the farm to celebrate the completion of the raised beds project. The OUSC representatives appreciated the opportunity to see the fruits of their labor, especially since many of them had never had the chance to visit the farm before.

“This was my first time visiting the Campus Student Organic Farm,” OUSC legislator Ethan Lehman-Pace said. “It was so incredible to see the thriving environment that was created by students.”

After being given a tour of the farm, OUSC and Growing Grizzlies members worked together to fill the last unfinished raised bed with nutrientrich soil. Once enough soil was shoveled into the bed, the OUSC representatives set the final wall into place.

After a long and challenging summer of work, the raised beds were finally completed and ready to be used. Hansen celebrated the completion of the project by allowing OUSC and Growing Grizzlies members to plant sprouts in one of the beds.

The raised beds project at the CSOF is a glowing example of what cooperation and hard work can accomplish amidst adversity. As sustainability month progresses, it is imperative that the natural spaces on campus, such as CSOF, are recognized and respected.

PHOTO BY OAKLAND UNIVERSITY

Oakland University’s Campus Student Organic Farm (CSOF) celebrated the completion of their raised beds project on Oct. 12 inside the farm’s hoop house.

OU students share their favorite Halloween songs

AUTUMN OKUSZKA

Features Reporter

Just as Halloween movies can get students into the spooky spirit, so can Halloween songs.

“Ghostbusters,” “Monster Mash” and “A Nightmare

On My Street” are just some of the most popular tracks to listen to during the season — but there are some songs that may not be as commonly associated with the holiday. Oakland University students share their favorite picks below.

“Thriller” — Michael Jackson

“Thriller,” off of the album of the same name, was released on Nov. 30, 1982. The album won

eight Grammy Awards, and was later named the best-selling album of all time by Guinness World Records.

The song’s accompanying music video debuted on MTV on Dec. 2, 1983. Directed by filmmaker John Landis, the video was the first music video to be inducted into the National Film Registry of the Library of Congress (LOC) in 2009, and is credited as being “the most famous music video of all time.”

“Thriller” is freshman Maria Martin’s favorite Halloween song because she remembers singing it in her middle school choir.

“[The choir] performed on stage and we did the dance [that’s featured in the music video],” Martin said.

“ All Too Well (10 Minute Version)” — Taylor Swift

“All Too Well” was first released on Swift’s 2012 album “Red” with a runtime of 5:28. When Swift re-released and re-recorded “Red” in 2021, she released two versions of “All Too Well” — one that replicates the original version, as well as a new ten minute-long version.

“All Too Well (10 Minute Version)” was accompanied by a short film written and directed by Swift and starring Sadie Sink and Dylan O’Brien. It won Video of the Year at the 2022 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs).

The lyrics — which reference scarves and the fall season, as well as Swift’s recollection of a relationship gone wrong — remind junior Doreen Hakim of Halloween.

“Ever since ‘All Too Well’ came out, I associate that song with fall,” Hakim said. “[It reminds me of] getting back into in-person school, because

that’s what was happening [around the same time of ‘All Too Well’s’ release].”

“Calling All the Monsters” — China Anne McClain

“Calling All the Monsters” was first heard on the Disney Channel original series “A.N.T. Farm” in the Halloween-inspired episode, “MutANT farm.”

The song’s lyrics detail dancing with monsters, and the track was re-recorded by McClain in 2021 alongside her siblings in the group “Thriii.”

Senior Samiya McMiller believes it’s her favorite Halloween song because it reminds her of parts of childhood spent watching Disney Channel.

“Calling All the Monsters’ is such a classic,” McMiller said. “It’s a really fun song that everybody can vibe to, and we still play it to this day.”

“This Is Halloween” — “The Nightmare Before Christmas”

“The Nightmare Before Christmas” is a stop motion film released on Oct. 13, 1993. Directed by Henry Selick and produced by Tim Burton, the film tells the story of Jack Skellington — the “Pumpkin King of Halloween Town” — and his discovery of “Christmas Town,” which he ultimately tries to take over.

Danny Elfman composed the music for the film, including “This Is Halloween,” which is heard in the opening scene. The song has also been covered by Marilyn Manson and Panic! at the Disco.

“The Nightmare Before Christmas” is junior Jazmyn Wilson’s favorite Halloween movie, and “This Is Halloween’’ is her favorite Halloween song.

“It’s usually the first Halloween movie [my family and I] watch during the fall season,” Wilson said.

PHOTO BY INSIDE HOOK.

OUSC’s MI Voting Guide

OUSC

Contributor

Voting in Michigan

Make sure you’re eligible to vote

You must be:

A U.S. citizen

18 years old on or before election day

At least a 30 day resident of the Michigan city or township you are voting in.

Be registered to vote

You can register:

BY MAIL : You can complete an mail registration application to register if it arrives at your local clerk’s office 15 days or more before an election.

both online and paper voter registration applications online at www.mi.gov/vote.

Vote absentee

Voting by mail allows you to cast your vote without going to your polling location. You can vote absentee:

BY MAIL : You must complete an absentee ballot application to vote absentee, either by mail, in person, or online. Once you receive your absentee ballot, you must turn your absentee ballot into your clerk’s office by no later than 8pm on Election Day by mail or at a ballot dropbox.

IN PERSON : At your clerk’s office, you can fill out an absentee ballot up until 8pm on the day of the election.

IN PERSON : You can register in person up to and on Election Day by completing a voter registration application and turning it into your local clerk’s office. If it is less than 14 days before Election Day, make sure to bring a state issued ID to register in person.

ONLINE : You can register online up to 15 days before the election. This is only available to those with a Michigan driver’s license or a valid Michigan state ID. Online registration is not available after October 24th.

Absentee ballots can be tracked and applications can be found at www.mi.gov/vote

* NOTE: the Michigan Secretary of State’s office recommends sending your absentee ballot to your clerk’s office at least two weeks before Election Day. To avoid mail delays, you can drop your ballot off at your clerk’s ballot dropbox. If your ballot is not at your clerk’s office by the time polls close on Election Day, your ballot will not be counted.*

Vote in person

You can register to vote if you are 17 only if you turn 18 on or before Election Day, more information on early registration can be found here. You can find

EARLY : You can go to your clerk’s office before any election to vote early. Early voting begins 40 days before an election.

ELECTION DAY : You can go to your polling place in person on Election Day to cast your ballot.

Important Election Dates for Michigan State General Election - November 8, 2022 Reminders

If it is less than two weeks before Election Day and you have not requested an absentee ballot, it may not arrive on time. To ensure your vote is counted, voting early in person or voting on Election Day may be the best practice.

Online voter registration closes on October 24th. If you have not registered after October 24th, visit your clerk’s office. Information on everything in this guide is available at mi.gov/vote.

Have other questions?

If you have other questions about voting, visit www.mi.gov/vote for more information. You can also contact the Director of Executive Platform for the Oakland University Student Congress at jeremyjohnson@oakland.edu.

PHOTO BY OAKLAND UNIVERSITY NEWS

Meningitis and college students

GABRIELLE GAPPY

Science and Technology Editor

Back to school season each fall often leads to many people developing illnesses such as the common cold, flu or even COVID-19. Talks of another illness — perhaps the most threatening to college students — can sometimes be forgotten.

This illness is meningitis, which is an infection of the brain and spinal cord that, according to the Minnesota Department of Health. causes death in up to one out of seven people who contract it. Although the disease itself is rare, one out of five of those who survive acquire severe disabilities such as seizures, deafness, loss of limbs and brain damage (Minnesota Department of Health).

A professional ballroom dancer, 32-year-old Rafael Castellano battled a severe case of meningitis for three months, beginning in June 2022. During this time, he had eight surgeries, was placed in a medically induced coma and had both of his legs amputated (NY Post). He said he did not know much about the disease before, and now hopes to spread awareness.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “infants, teens and young adults and older adults have the highest rates of meningococcal disease in the United States.”

College students living in close quarters such as in dormitories can be as much as six times more likely to acquire meningitis. It is spread through “sharing respiratory and throat secretions (saliva or spit). Generally, it takes close or lengthy contact

to spread these bacteria. Those at increased risk of getting sick include people in the same household, roommates, or anyone with direct contact with the patient’s oral secretions, such as a kissing partner,” (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).

Some symptoms commonly shown in those with meningitis may match those associated with a cold or the flu, such as fever, vomiting and headache. However, other symptoms present as the illness progresses.

“Limb pain, pale skin, and cold hands and feet often appear earlier than the rash, neck stiffness, dislike of bright lights and confusion,” Meningitis. org said. Being able to recognize symptoms and seek medical attention is extremely important, as the disease can “kill in hours,” (Meningitis).

There are two kinds of vaccinations available to prevent different strains of meningitis. The Meningococcal Conjugate or MenACWY is a vaccine that prevents strains A, C, Y and W. The first dose is taken between ages 11-12 and a booster is taken at age 16 (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).

It is also recommended that teens and young adults at increased risk of acquiring meningitis, such as those living in dormitories, receive the MenB vaccine, which protects against Strain B. This strain has previously been found on college campuses (Graham Health Center). The MenB vaccine is available at pharmacies and doctor’s offices for those between the ages of 16-23.

Dr. Silvana Younan is an internal medicine physician at Farmington Hills Medical Center. She

PHOTO BY CDC

sees patients of all ages, including young adults, and has two children who are recent college grads.

“Vaccinating against meningitis is especially important for college students, especially considering the large population and close proximity of students in housing sites and dorm rooms,” Younan said.

She continued to describe the significance of spreading awareness and learning more about meningococcal disease, which can cause meningitis and other blood infections.

“Knowing about the disease and its symptoms, in addition to being vaccinated, can go a long way in keeping yourself and others in the campus safe,” Younan said.

The signs as Halloween movie icons

Show”

– Morticia Addams, “The

Family”

Aquarius – Marnie Piper, “Halloweentown” series

Pisces – Casper, “Casper the Friendly Ghost”

STORY BY BELLA JAVIER | DESIGN BY MEGAN PARKER | HALLOWEEN ICON DRAWINGS BY EMILY IATROU

Dr. Tiegs’ study takes step toward understanding aquatic ecosystems

RACHEL YIM

Science and Technology Reporter

“Geographically separate ecosystems are often ecologically connected by flows of carbon and nutrients. Rivers receive nitrogen subsidies from the Pacific Ocean in the form of migrating salmon; streams receive carbon from autumn-shed riparian leaves; riparian soils receive riverine sediments during flood events. Do human activities alter these connections? And if so, what are the ecological consequences?” Dr. Scott Tiegs’ research overview ponders.

In order to answer these questions, Tiegs, professor for the Department of the Biological Sciences at Oakland University, employs fieldbased experimental and observational approaches in his research studies.

With such approaches, his research laboratory, the Aquatic Ecology Lab, aims to provide scientific information that can help understand, manage and restore aquatic ecosystems, especially streams and rivers. He also aims to study how human activities impact aquatic ecosystems.

Tiegs’ passion for science and nature has long been his motivator for partaking in the field of ecology.

“I’ve always loved nature, ever since I was a little kid, and I’ve also always liked science,” he said. “My experiences at OU [also] have been very positive overall. I love that we have a Biological Preserve, and other natural areas on campus for class activities and research.”

One of the recent projects Tiegs’ research lab has undertaken that he finds interesting is investigating the impact of artificial light on aquatic terrestrial insects.

“Two of my graduate students just started a cool new project this summer looking at how artificial

light at night impacts aquatic and terrestrial insects,” Tiegs said. “Most of their field work is at night, and they make use of these interesting-looking multicolored lamps. It’s a bit of a new area of research for the lab, which makes it extra exciting.”

Aside from his research studies, he also teaches Ecology (BIO 3330), Ecology of Streams & Rivers (BIO 4330) and Tropical Field Ecology (BIO 4333). Specifically, his Tropical Field Ecology course will be held in Ecuador during the upcoming winter break (approximately from Dec. 14-16), and it is open to all interested OU students.

According to Tiegs, Ecuador is a “hotspot” for global biodiversity and a place where students can gain an insight into tropical ecology. Through this approximately 11-day-long field-based course, students will be able to explore the following:

• The rainforests of upper Amazonia

• Hiking in alpine grasslands on 18,000 ft.-high Antisana Volcano (a glacier-covered peak near the equator) in the high Andes

• Birding in the cloud forest

• Montane tropical rainforests, wetlands, streams and rivers

• Amphibian night hikes

•Tons of wildlife, beautiful landscapes and a great introduction to tropical ecology

•Tropical dry forests of the Pacific Coast

• Silver Island, AKA “the Poor Man’s Galapagos” near the Pacific Coast

“I took a study abroad course in Mexico when I was an undergrad and it really inspired me to pursue ecology as a career,” he said. “I always told myself that if I ever became a professor, I would teach a similar course, and at OU we’ve been able to do that with the field-based course in tropical ecology.

“I have a few different research projects going on in Ecuador, so it’s fun for me to take students to my field sites,” Tiegs continued. “[Also,] classroom learning can only take you so far. I think that in order to have a solid understanding of an ecosystem like a lake or a rainforest, to connect with it, you have to experience it firsthand.”

For more information, visit Tiegs’ research lab website.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SCOTT TIEGS Tiegs, professor for the Department of the Biological Sciences at Oakland University, employs field-based experimental and observational approaches in his research studies.

The Try Guys scandal: No more ‘Mr. Wife Guy’

AUTUMN OKUSZKA Features Reporter

“The Try Guys” will be “trying” activities as a trio from now on.

Originally consisting of members Eugene Lee Yang, Keith Habersberger, Zach Kornfeld and Ned Fulmer, the group got their start at Buzzfeed in 2014 before leaving to establish their own company, 2nd Try LLC, in 2018. They are known for “trying” a wide variety of activities, such as visiting a chiropractor and baking without a recipe.

After images began circulating which suggested Fulmer was cheating on his wife with a subordinate, “The Try Guys” released a statement on Sept. 27 relaying that after an internal review, Fulmer would no longer be working with the company. Fulmer came out with his own statement that same day, stating that he “lost focus and had a consensual workplace relationship.”

When Oakland University freshman Zena Kissinger found out that Fulmer cheated on his wife, it hit close to home. Coming from a divorced family, Kissinger believes she knows how Fulmer’s wife, Ariel, feels.

“I just know how uncomfortable Ariel and her kids must feel right now,” Kissinger said.

Each “Try Guy” molded their own image. Fulmer was known as the “wife guy” of the group, which is why it came as a shock to OU freshman Amber Cicilian — who has been a “Try Guys” fan since

2019 — that Fulmer had been cheating on his wife.

“He just seems so deceitful in my eyes now,” Cicilian said. “I think so many people liked him because he was so wholesome, but now he’s just completely destroyed his reputation.”

Erin Meyers, the Assistant Director of the Women and Gender Studies (WGS) program at OU, believes the reason Fulmer’s cheating scandal became such a huge spectacle is due to YouTube being a platform that highly values “authenticity.”

“What makes YouTube stars and other social media stars different from more traditional stars is — we know that traditional stars are at least pretending in some way,” Meyers said. “When a [performer] is up on stage or screen, they’re pretending to be someone else. YouTubers are just sharing themselves, and that’s what draws us to them — that private self.”

While Meyers doesn’t believe that Fulmer made up his “wife guy” persona from the beginning, she thinks that he used his love for his wife as a method of setting himself apart from the other “Try Guys.”

“It became a good way to be distinct,” she said. “[Fulmer’s ‘wife guy’ persona] also [kept] to that sense of ordinariness and realness in a way that I think fits in with some of the trends in that kind of celebrity. I think [it] probably attracted women to ‘The Try Guys,’ to be like ‘oh, he’s just a really good guy,’ and that’s his persona.”

The incident with Fulmer may have caused increased skepticism of the authenticity of the “wife guy” persona, but Meyers says that it’s a persona that will never really go away.

“I think people will continue to be more skeptical of it, but I don’t think it’ll go away,” Meyers said. “I think that it’ll just take a different form — all of these kinds of celebrity stereotypes always come back around or reemerge in different kinds of forms.”

On top of the world with ‘Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile’

OLIVIA CHIAPPELLI

Arts Reporter

Oct. 7th marked “Lyle Lyle Day” for anyone keeping up with the release of this movie. This may be a children’s film, but I have been deeply invested in all things Lyle since finding out the eponymous crocodile would be voiced by none other than Shawn Mendes.

The social media marketing for this film was so effective, I honestly don’t think I would have gone to see it otherwise — but I am so glad I did. I could not go two TikTok scrolls without hearing the sweet sound of Mendes’ voice singing “At the top of the world tonight / Where no one ever has to hide.”

With the amount of promotion there was for that track, I expected it to be the recurring theme song of the movie that culminated in a huge, final number after getting little tastes of it throughout — but it totally wasn’t. All I got was a roughly 45 second clip of a crocodile jumping all over a roof pretty early on in the film.

I think that is my biggest grievance that I hold for “Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile.” I wanted more of that song that would not leave me alone anywhere outside of the theater. I almost missed its ear wormy presence, but I digress.

I don’t know what I thought the plot of “Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile” was going to be going into the theater, and I don’t even know if I fully understood what it was when I left, but that does not mean I didn’t enjoy the ride. First of all, the movie was aesthetically beautiful. Its rich red, green and gold color palette really hit a sweet spot that made me feel like I was inside a thoughtfully

illustrated children’s book.

I also did have my jaw dropped at any movement that Lyle made, simply because I was imagining Mendes in his place. I obviously know that they didn’t actually have Mendes in one of those CGI suits jumping through dumpsters in the streets of New York, but it was so fun to imagine that.

Every time Lyle nervously tucked his little front legs up in front of his scarf adorned body I would jolt in my seat and honestly mirror him. I was very emotionally invested in Lyle’s well-being, so hats off to the VFX people who made him possible.

‘Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile’ is out in theaters now.

Not gonna lie, though, Lyle looked tortured until the very end of the movie. Even as he drove off into the sunset with his new family, his eyes were still sad looking. Wishing Lyle the best — maybe that’s just his crocodile charm?

Overall, I think my biggest takeaway from this movie was how bad I want to sleep in a blanket filled cello case in a glass roofed attic overlooking the twinkling night time skyline of New York City, so thank you for that visual, “Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile.”

Rating: 4/5 stars

PHOTO BY EMILY LATROU

PHOTO COURTESY OF GETTY IMAGES

New York Comic Con: My top panels

D’JUANNA LESTER Arts Reporter

The annual New York Comic Con was held Oct. 6-9. Every year, panels, autograph opportunities and so much more happen across one big weekend.

There’s something in store for everyone at Comic Con. From dressing up as your favorite character to attending panels from some of the most popular shows, comics and books from pop culture, everyone will find their niche at the NYC-based convention.

As a self-proclaimed nerd, I was thrilled to see so many different panels hosted for different fandoms. My top panels had to be “Spotlight on Leigh Bardugo” and “A Conversation with the Darkling, The Crows, and Leigh Bardugo.” Fellow “Six of Crows” and “Shadow and Bone” fans were delighted to see the author of the popular series and some of the breakout actors from the Netflix adaptation get together to talk about the YA Fantasy phenomenon.

“Spotlight on Leigh Bardugo” was a Friday panel moderated by Tochi Onyebuchi, another author. Bardugo discussed her most recent book release and the Netflix series, as well as answering questions about her writing process.

“The process is the same,” Bardugo said on how she keeps these stories fresh after a decade. “The trick for me is learning what my process was and that I needed that structure to finish a book. That

process has stayed intact, but I think I trust it more. I’ve wanted to be a writer since I was a kid.”

She then went on to discuss how the “Shadow and Bone” trilogy and the “Six of Crows” and “King of Scars” series don’t span a great amount of time, with “Six of Crows” only taking place two years after the original trilogy. Bardugo also commented on the writing market now, and how it’s been changing over the years.

The Saturday panel consisted of Bardugo, Ben Barnes (The Darkling), Freddy Carter (Kaz Brekker), Amita Suman (Inej Ghafa) and Kit Young (Jesper Fahey) discussing the Netflix adaptation and how they bonded as a cast.

“Basically, I was at a friend’s house and I was reading a book. When I woke up, the house was dark. When I was going back to sleep, I couldn’t stop thinking about if darkness was a place,” Bardugo said of creating the concept for “Shadow and Bone.”

When discussing if they’d read the books before landing their roles, Suman said she picked the books up straight away and couldn’t put them down until she finished them all. She said she was too busy reading the books instead of preparing her audition.

Carter found the site Grisha wiki and bought the books, noting his excitement over the “Kaz brekker didn’t need a reason,” line. Young discussed the expectations of playing Jesper and creating something that the cast thought was cool.

“Fantasy fans have a one up on other fans because we see possibility,” Bardugo said.

While the cast couldn’t go too far into details surrounding season 2, everyone expressed excitement about the show.

On ‘Being Funny in a Foreign Language,’ The 1975 gets groove back

TORI COKER

Content Editor

The 1975 returned with their fifth studio album, “Being Funny in a Foreign Language,” on Friday, Oct. 14.

Just in time for the 2014 Tumblr girl renaissance, it seems that after the dry spell that was their previous effort, The 1975 has gotten their groove back.

with lead singer Matty Healy expressing that he’s, “sorry if you’re living and you’re seventeen,” and reckoning with, “making an aesthetic out of not doing well.”

1980’s vibes tend to be a given with this band, but this release takes a refreshing swing back to their mastery of the sound as demonstrated with sophomore effort “I Like It When You Sleep, for You Are So Beautiful yet So Unaware of It,” (no, really, that’s what it’s called) and the single “If You’re Too Shy (Let Me Know,)” my personal lone favorite from their fourth record. Bathed in synths and sax and heart rattling percussion, “Being Funny” even ventures to borrow disco influences in between nods to classic pop-rock.

The band swaps their trademark melancholy and playful pessimism with near bubblegum-y lovestruck attitudes on tracks like “I’m In Love With You” — a standout on the release, brandishing one hell of an earworm with its hook and one hell of a Phoebe Bridgers cameo with its music video. “Happiness” sports a similar heart on its sleeve, with Healy musing against an airtight blend of horns and synths, “I would go blind just to see you, I’d go too far just to have you near.”

ramblings about the endearing quirks of family.

“About You” is receiving all the rage on TikTok, and for good reason. If the haunting simplicity of Healy’s vocals and the nostalgic lyrics (which evoke the same feelings that look between estranged lovers at the end of Damien Chazelle’s “La La Land” does) weren’t enough to move fans to tears, Healy’s revelation in the track’s Spotify Story that it was penned as a continuation of the band’s iconic ballad “Robbers” will surely get them there. The bridge of this song is perhaps the most exceptional part of the album, featuring lead guitarist Adam Hann’s wife Carly Holt lending an achingly wistful voice to the female figure in this story.

This album marks the band’s first time welcoming pop girl production aficionado Jack Antonoff to the plate — and wow, does it work for them. You can hear his personal touches here and there — “Looking for Somebody to Love” in particular sounds borrowed from a Bleachers album — but mostly, Antonoff’s clever ear works to take everything fans love about The 1975 to new heights.

An alternative take on the eponymous intro track that has varied in sonics but sustained the same lyrics in opening every The 1975 album up to now immediately confronts listeners with a new body of lyrics which are arguably the album’s best set,

Other standout tracks include “Oh Caroline,” a timeless anthem for the hopelessly devoted that swims in dreamy guitars and lies where Peter Gabriel meets Toto. “Wintering” is a heartwarming ode to all the chaos that accompanies coming home for the holidays, boasting stream of consciousness

While not altogether parting with the band’s trademark cynicism and weaponized irony, this album marks a surrender of sorts. In an uncharacteristic display of sincerity, the band moves to submerge listeners in the idea of love as something to hope for, to change for, to cling to in the midst of mayhem. At least for the 43 minutes and 32 seconds you’ll spend with this record, you’ll believe in it, too.

Rating: 4½/5 stars

PHOTO COURTESY OF PITCHFORK

The 1975 - Being Funny In A Foreign Language.

PHOTO COURTESY OF NYCCVB

The annual New York Comic Con was held last week, Oct. 6-9.

‘The Last Dance of the Debutante’ — A delightful read

D’JUANNA LESTER Arts Reporter

What can I say? Something about rebellious debutantes and London society is fascinating to read about, and this read from Julia Kelly was no different. With intriguing characters, a beautiful setting and a plot twist that had me on the edge of my seat, this was an unexpected but delightful read.

From beginning to end, I was hooked as a reader. Reading about Lily Nicholls’ debut during the last official debutante season was a thrilling experience. Lily is such an interesting protagonist — she likes books and has university-bound ambitions, and we also see her making unexpected friends throughout the book.

One thing I enjoyed was the plot surrounding Lily’s family. Right off the bat, you get the hint that something is amiss when the debutante season starts. The passing of Lily’s father leaves a gaping hole and flared tension between her, her Grandmama and her mother, Josephine.

The mystery of the book kept me hooked until the very end, while I thought I was only going to be here for the romance. Though the romance was very well written and fun to read about, I was more enraptured by the friendships that were formed throughout the book.

Lily dubs her friend group “The Imperfects,” which definitely encapsulates the theme of this story. Lily doesn’t want to be a debutante, and

Katherine, one of my favorite characters, wants to become a reporter. I really appreciated how these stories were handled, and how the importance of family to both of these women was showcased.

Leana Hartford is a very unlikeable character, and I was so glad to see Katherine Norman guide Lily through her friendship struggles, befriending her in the process. Katherine encouraged Lily’s love interests, which made me root for her even more.

While the romance took a back seat to the mystery (especially the plot twist at the end), it was still enjoyable to read. The romantic connections felt real, especially for the era of court and balls. I loved reading about Lily’s journey with love, considering finding a suitable partner is the entire point of being a debutante in this society.

This book takes the theme of London high society and turns it on its head, showing the difference between when Grandmama was a deb and how the times are now that Lily is a deb.

That plot twist had me shaking when I read it. I had to go back and read it again to make sure I was reading it right. Kelly, you wrote a masterpiece of a plot twist. The way the characters interacted with each other shifted once the twist came out, and I was floored.

Kelly wrote such an amazing book. From the romance to the mystery, every character had something about them that made me interested — maybe not sympathetic, but interested. Lily Nicholls and Katherine Norman are one of my favorite protagonist-best friend duos in a long time,

and I wish we could see more of them in the future.

Rating: 5/5

Niall Horan’s ‘Homecoming: The Road to Mullingar’ documentary announced

OLIVIA CHIAPPELLI Arts Reporter

Niall Horan recently announced he will be the subject of a new documentary appropriately titled “Niall Horan’s Homecoming: The Road to Mullingar,” alongside his best friend and fellow singer Lewis Capaldi.

The documentary, presented by Guinness, will follow Horan and Capaldi for three days as they road trip around Ireland, showcasing both of their insane laughs, singing songs in pubs and just having fun.

If you have previously seen this duo take Glamour’s Friendship Test, you will know that there will surely be a lot more in store for this documentary than just this simple description. I am expecting this to be a semi comedy show, and I have a feeling I won’t be disappointed.

Guinness notes the documentary was “inspired by Horan’s desire to revisit and reconnect with all that he loves of home; to retrace the origins of the exciting journey he’s on and experience the reality of Ireland today,” which honestly feels like their way of telling me that I should prepare for some nostalgic One Direction feels.

I have been personally waiting for this announcement ever since those viral videos of Horan and Capaldi randomly crashing a street performer’s set in Dublin last August. I knew there had to be more in store from that random encounter, and I was correct.

I hope this documentary gifts me a full performance of the pair singing “Yellow” by Coldplay during that impromptu busking moment, because I scavenged the internet at the time and was only left with a disappointing few seconds.

Please do me right.

I am very excited to see what other songs Horan and Capaldi duet together, because I do spend a lot of my time on Youtube rewatching their performance of “Teenage Dream” by Katy Perry from 2019, and I think I am well overdue for an updated binge-worthy duet from the two.

Another fun side note is Horan was just announced to be one of the four judges on the upcoming season of The Voice. Whatever Niall Horan renaissance the world is pulling right now, I am gladly eating it up.

While I am a well-documented, biased Harry Styles fan in terms of the One Direction breakup, I do have a soft spot for Horan, and I think the world deserves more of him. Bring on the documentary!

“Niall Horan’s Homecoming: The Road to Mullingar” premieres in Ireland on Oct. 16, and will hit the rest of the world on Prime Video on Oct. 21.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SIMON & SCHUSTER

PHOTO COURTESY OF LUCY FOSTER

Niall Horan recently announced he will be the subject of a new documentary appropriately titled “Niall Horan’s Homecoming: The Road to Mullingar,” alongside his best friend and fellow singer Lewis Capaldi.

Luckiest Girl Alive: Her side, their story and the truth

LETICIA CEZÁRIO SANTOS Marketing Director

*Trigger warning: this Rated R movie contains scenes of sexual assault, abuse and gun violence that are uncomfortable or upsetting and might trigger some.

*This review contains spoilers.

Do not be fooled by the title — “Luckiest Girl Alive” is not the happy ending you might hope for, but it might be just as rewarding.

On Oct. 7, 2022, Netflix launched the adaptation of the New York Times Bestseller written by Jessica Knoll — who also wrote the screenplay for the film. Mila Kunis produced and starred in this new toughto-watch production that is a mixture of thriller, mystery and drama genres all in one.

“Luckiest Girl Alive” tells Ani FaNelli’s story from a past-present parallel perspective.

“The ‘present’ takes place in 2015, the year that the novel was published, and the past shows Ani’s high school experience at her exclusive private school in 1999,” Sara Nigro wrote for The Signal. “[...] [Director Mike Barker’s] shifting between the past and present storylines was done almost seamlessly and often held a relevant connection to one another.”

The timeline parallelism was necessary to portray the hurtful and confusing process Ani was going through. As every story has two sides, so does Ani’s present reality.

Ani is a New York based writer with a seemingly perfect life. Ironically, even if she struggles with understanding herself, she writes for a womendedicated magazine about sexual empowerment.

“(...) self-loathing magazine writer named Ani has achieved a trifecta of status symbols: a prestigious education (acquired via scholarships), a slim body (acquired via an eating disorder) and a posh fiancé (acquired via emotional suppression),” Amy Nicholson wrote for the New York Post.

Early in the movie, it is noticeable that Ani goes through a deeply impactful psychological process. The story unravels when Ani is forced to confront her past, which, unexpectedly, holds more than we could possibly imagine.

Ellie Harrison summarized, “[the] teenage Ani is gang-raped at a house party by several of her classmates. She tells her friends Arthur and Ben what happened, and they then share their experiences of being bullied by the same boys who raped Ani. Later on, Arthur and Ben carry out a mass shooting at the school.”

The problematic part of this horrendous story comes from Ani’s involvement with Arthur and Ben. She ends up seen as an accomplice of both boys on the shooting, since one of her assaulters ends up paralyzed after to being shot.

Years went by following the incidents, and Ani went from victim to guilty while her assaulter built a career advocating against gun violence.

“Luckiest Girl Alive” received praise for its respectful yet impactful portrait of sensitive subjects — but this perspective comes directly from the writer herself. A year after publishing the book, Knoll revealed that Ani’s experience of sexual assault was inspired by her own life. She went through similar abuse while also attending a private school as a teenager.

“I’ve done a lot of work to process what has happened to me to understand why I had to deal with it in the way I did,” she said in an interview for Entertainment.com.

The school shooting storyline in the book and film is not based on a specific real-life event, but is a portrait of a recurring American social problem.

The movie received few but specific critics. Viewers are “calling for the release to include a trigger warning at the beginning due to its hard-hitting storyline,” Emily Gulla wrote for Cosmopolitan.

Critics also question the end of Ani’s story. Her life goes through an upside-down turn and ends on what seems to be the beginning of the #MeToo movement.

“The film devolves not into what could be (as was better portrayed in the novel) the portrait of a woman learning to speak her truth, but a perfect victim’s story,” Adrian Horton wrote for The Guardian.

“At some point, I do remember saying how when I wrote my essay for Lenny Letter,” Knoll explained that, yet again, the end of the film mirrored reality, “I was just inundated with messages from women sharing their stories.”

“Luckiest Girl Alive” feels overwhelming at times, as if it is juggling too many different priorities. From sexual assault to gender and class politics to gun violence — this plot is a lot to digest.

Viewers argue that there was much more to discuss and cover in this plot — which, in their opinion, could have been adapted into a series, not a movie. Still, “Luckiest Girl Alive” is an emotional portrayal of how reinvention and undoing can lead someone to a better place.

If you have been raped or sexually assaulted or are currently dealing with Post-traumatic disorder, you can contact available hotlines for specialized, independent and confidential support.

National Sexual Assault Hotline Michigan Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic

PHOTO COURTESY BY IMDB.COM

PHOTO COURTESY BY TIME.COM

Is the future bright for the Detroit Pistons?

SUMMER WEATHERS Sports Reporter

It’s that time of the year. The Detroit Pistons are looking to make their debut for the season opener on Wednesday, Oct. 19 against the Orlando Magic.

The Pistons are a young team on the rise set to give opposing teams keen competition. The team made some changes with a goal towards solidifying a young foundation for the future of Motor City, and they definitely will be a fun squad to watch this season.

The Pistons still have last year’s No. 1 overall draft pick, Cade Cunningham. With his ability to create his own shots and knock down threepointers, he has some smooth finishing skills, too, controlling the pace of the game.

Without a doubt, Cunningham is looking like a future All-Star. He continues to prove why he was the No. 1 overall pick.

This season, Cunningham will get even more open looks with the help from the No. 5 overall draft pick, Jaden Ivey. The 6-foot-4 guard out of Purdue University is a dynamic player.

Ivey is very athletic and can get past defenders easily. His quickness allows him to score off fast breaks, get easy layups and finish through contact.

Ivey is the most explosive and athletic player in his draft class. He will be a great back-court

partner, alongside Cunningham. His game can easily be compared to Memphis Grizzlies star, Ja Morant.

Alongside these young players is the No. 13 overall draft pick, Jalen Duren. The 6-foot-11 power forward/center is the youngest player in the NBA.

Duren is another centerpiece that will contribute to the Pistons growth this season and play big on the defensive end. Duren is strong and a great rebounder who can also protect the basket by blocking shots with his 7-foot-5 wingspan. He is a dominant force who finishes with authority, and the most talented big man that came out of this year’s draft for sure.

Marvin Bagley III, the No. 2 overall draft pick in his class, is looking to revitalize his name after spending his first four years on the Sacramento Kings. He opens the floor for other teammates by being a great lob threat and mid range shooter with the ability to score well in the post.

Bagley is definitely a great addition to a legit young core — this is the most exciting team the Pistons have had in years.

The Pistons are starting to look like another Bad Boys team. What makes this team so special and different is the fact they are starting from scratch.

This is going to be a good year for the Pistons’s development and an opportunity to learn and build chemistry together. There are high hopes and beliefs that this team is destined to do great things in the future — the beginning of Bad Boys 2.0.

Men’s soccer celebrates homecoming, blanks Wright State in victory

BROCK HEILIG Sports Editor

The Oakland men’s soccer team celebrated homeco ming on Saturday with a 1-0 victory over one of the Horizon League’s best teams — Wright State.

Not only was the match homecoming, but it was also a celebration of 50 years of Oakland soccer.

Despite being outshot 16-8, Oakland still found a way to come away with a win in what was a critical match in terms of the Horizon League standings.

Of Oakland’s eight shots, only two of them were on goal. However, sometimes it’s better to be lucky than good.

The Golden Grizzlies’ second shot on goal came in the 54th minute from Ville Ahola, and it just so happened to be the matchwinner. Ahola’s shot beat the Raiders’ goalkeeper Sebastian Jimenez, giving Oakland a 1-0 lead.

That would be all Oakland needed, though, as goalkeeper Michael Sly Jr. was outstanding in goal. The redshirt freshman played all 90 minutes and made nine saves in the shutout effort, the third one of the season for Oakland.

Despite a horrendous start to the season, Oakland is starting to get things figured out — but it might be too little too late.

The Golden Grizzlies started the season 0-6-2, going winless in their first eight matches. They didn’t win their first match until more than a month into the season with a 2-1 victory over Robert Morris. Since the 0-6-2 start, Oakland has found some momentum.

Eric Pogue’s squad has won three of its five matches since the awful start. Three victories, a loss and a tie have Oakland in sole possession of fourth place in the Horizon League standings.

Oakland trails Detroit Mercy and Wright State, respectively, by one and three points, while all teams are looking up at Cleveland State, which currently sits atop the standings with 16 points.

Much like in women’s soccer, teams are awarded three points per victory and one point per tie.

The race for the Horizon League crown is starting to heat up, but Oakland will take a quick hiatus from conference play as it hosts Western Michigan on Tuesday.

Following the non-conference battle with the Broncos, Oakland will conclude its regular season with a three-match conference stretch as it looks to rise in the standings.

Luckily for Oakland, all of its remaining three opponents — IUPUI, Milwaukee and Northern Kentucky — are behind it in the standings.

If the Golden Grizzlies can keep up the momentum with a victory over Western Michigan this week, they will have a golden opportunity to make a case for another Horizon League title.

PHOTO COURTESY OF DETROITBADBOYS.COM Cade Cunningham can propel the Pistons into a promising future.

PHOTO BY MARY MITCHELL

Men’s Soccer defeats Horizon League newcomer IUPUI.

Women’s soccer on four-game win streak, in pursuit of Horizon League title

BROCK HEILIG Sports Editor

The Oakland women’s soccer team is on a roll, to say the least. After tying seven of its first 12 games, the team has reached deep and found a spark maybe even it didn’t know it had.

The Golden Grizzlies defeated Northern Kentucky on Thursday, 1-0, to advance to 6-2-7 overall on the season. The win over the Norse marked the team’s third win a row, the first such winning streak of the season.

Oakland outshot Northern Kentucky, 14-4, which included a 10-0 shot differential in the first half. One of those 10 first-half shots included a goal from Carmela Barro in the 20th minute — her second of the season, and the fourth of her career.

Once again, Noëmi Stadelmann didn’t have an exciting day in goal — which is typically a good thing. Northern Kentucky only recorded four shots, and only two of those four were on target.

Stadelmann easily saved both shots on goal, which preserved the shutout. Stadelmann’s blanking of Northern Kentucky marked the ninth shutout that Oakland has pitched so far this season.

Not only did Oakland defeat Northern Kentucky, though. The Golden Grizzlies kept the momentum going with a 3-1 victory over Wright State on Sunday afternoon. Oakland once again outshot its opponent, this time by a margin of 19-13.

Sophie Wilsey (third of the season), Alexa Sabbagh (fourth of the season) and Jules Karkaba (second of

the season) all made scoring contributions in the win.

Wright State was able to get one ball past Stadelmann, which hasn’t happened often as of late. Prior to Sunday’s match, Stadelmann had pitched four straight shutouts, which is equivalent to more than 360 minutes of game action without allowing a goal.

Oakland, which extended its winning streak to four games on Sunday afternoon, now finds itself

in a four-way tie for second place in the Horizon League. The Golden Grizzlies currently sit with a 4-1-3 record in the league, which is good for 15 points. Each team is awarded three points for a win and one point for a tie.

At this point in time, Purdue Fort Wayne, IUPUI and Wright State are all at 15 points, as well. However, Oakland holds an advantage over IUPUI and Wright State.

Oakland has currently played eight conference matches, but IUPUI and Wright State have played nine. Theoretically, this gives Oakland a full extra game to either tie or win, thus giving it a point advantage over either of the two aforementioned teams.

Perhaps the biggest match of the season is approaching this Saturday, Oct. 22. Oakland will travel to Milwaukee to take on the league-leading Panthers.

Milwaukee currently leads the league with 17 points. If Oakland can knock off Milwaukee on Saturday, it should control its own destiny as it relates to winning the regular season Horizon League championship.

Oakland’s theoretical three points with a win over Milwaukee would give the Golden Grizzlies 18 points, while the Panthers would still be at 17.

The Golden Grizzlies will finish off the regular season with Detroit Mercy, which currently has a 4-4 conference record.

If Oakland is able to look ahead and see what’s on the horizon, maybe it will reach a little bit deeper, and that spark will turn into a flame.

Sophomore Mia Konyvka is a beast in the game of softball

SUMMER WEATHERS

Sports Reporter

Mia Konyvka is a versatile, well-rounded softball player — from her amazing pitching skills to her elite power hitting.

A sophomore transfer student from George Mason University, Konyvka is a health science major pursuing the OBGYN route. She is setting herself up for success with an academic goal to be on the Dean’s List.

She holds herself accountable when it comes to her schoolwork and prioritizes her time to always stay on top of everything that is due. Besides getting up on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays to be at her 6:30 a.m. morning lifts with the team, she still makes sure study hall is a priority.

As a freshman last year, she looked up to the upperclassmen and now desires to have that leadership aspect as well. After winning the Horizon League Championship last year, she is looking forward to how the team is going to progress.

“I’m just really excited to see how we are going to develop,” Konyvka said. “We definitely have a lot of work to do, but I think given time and the amount of attention that our coaches give us and repetitions and everything, it’s really going to come together. We’re just going head first into the smaller details, so I think once the train gets rolling, it’s just going to be really great.”

Over the summer, Konyvka would drive 45

minutes to get some extra practice in and lift weights.

“I was really fortunate to lift with our strength coach, Eliza, in the mornings, and then workout with one of the freshman catchers before going to hit afterwards with Coach Sam,” she said. “I was working really, really hard. I think [during] that time, I became more confident and really excited about playing.”

“I have a great influence on everyone. Everyone’s different — lot of people have to be super focused and serious, but personally, I try to make myself and everyone calm down and have fun,” Konyvka said. “To me, we’re still playing a sport because it’s fun, so I always try to, if it’s not there, generate the fun in it.”

What she enjoys most about OU is the culture and the people she has met.

“Everyone is so great,” she said. “I am friends with other athletes on other sports teams, as well.”

Konyvka has a lot going for her and is just getting started. She is the true definition of a proud Golden Grizzly.

Some fun facts about Mia Konyvka include her favorite sports team being the Red Sox, and that she is a huge fan of athlete Aleshia Ocasio. She enjoys watching the Stranger Things series and Pretty Woman is her favorite movie. Additionally, her softball team won the state championship her sophomore year of high school.

Konyvka makes a huge impact on her team.

“I always try to motivate everyone and cheer everyone on — I want the best for everyone,” she said. “It’s a team sport. My success matters, but a lot of the time, it comes from everyone.”

She is someone who breaks the ice and makes everyone feel comfortable and involved.

PHOTO COURTESY OF OAKLAND UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE OAKLAND POST ONLINE