Independent Student Journalism since 1987. Volume 50 l Issue 14 l December 11, 2024
FINALS FRENZY
FINALS FRENZY
At Kresge Library PAGE 5
At Kresge Library PAGE 5
HOLIDAY WALK
HOLIDAY WALK
Meadow Brook Hall tour PAGE 8-9
Meadow Brook Hall tour PAGE 8-9
OU men’s basketball beats Wright State 66-64, marking their first conference win of the season.
OU men’s basketball beats Wright State 66-64, marking their first conference win of the season.
WOMEN’S BASKETBALL
WOMEN’S BASKETBALL
First conference win PAGE 16
First conference win PAGE 16
PHOTO BY KATIE REID
FOR THE “UNSTRUCTURED: FALL 2024 SENIOR THESIS EXHIBITION” at the OU Art Gallery, Postie and Studio Art major Courtney Blackett debuts her photography collection “Revelation,” which explores how intimacy is an act of defiance in the lives of queer people.
Morgan Warneke Content Editor morganwarneke@oakland.edu
Megan Judy Managing Editor meganjudy@oakland.edu
EDITORS
Courtney Blackett Photo Editor courtneyblacket@oakland.edu
Kurt Szymanski Sports Editor kurtszymanski@oakland.edu
Adrian Jimenez Morales Campus Editor ajimenezmorales@oakland.edu
Chelsea Bossert Arts Editor cbossert@oakland.edu
Noah Francis Features Editor nfrancis2@oakland.edu
Mallory Waligora Political Editor mallorywaligora@oakland.edu
MARKETING
Reagan Reetz Marketing Director reaganreetz@oakland.edu
DISTRIBUTION
Rory Strachan Distribution Director Zachary Oberdier Distribution
Katie Reid Photographer
Carlee Morgan Photographer
Samantha Schihl Photographer
Ava Guest Graphic Designer
Dylan Hecker Graphic Designer
Zachary Oberdier Graphic Designer
CORRECTIONS CORNER:
ADVERTISING
Brian Einowski Ads Director ads@oaklandpostonline.com
REPORTERS
Moe Del Rosario Reporter
Evan Blanchard Reporter
Nicholas Kablak Reporter
Daniela Cesario Reporter
Matilde Rabajoli Reporter
ADVISING
Garry Gilbert Editorial Adviser
gjgilber@oakland.edu
248.370.2105
Don Ritenburgh Business Adviser ritenbur@oakland.edu
248.370.2533
PHOTO BY COURTNEY BLACKETT
OU hosts the Art, Book and Craft Fair
MATILDE RABAJOLI Campus Reporter
The Art, Book and Craft Fair was held on Dec. 4 in the Oakland Center. The fair was held indoors to help students stay away from the cold December winds that foretold snow.
Vendors lined up before the main hallway and dining area to sell holiday goodies for students to enjoy. Tables were lined with a wide range of products of all kinds to be offered as gifts, such as pins, handmade and decorated picture frames, hats and beanies, jewelry and more.
Sellers that were present had a range of being student clubs looking to fundraise, or small businesses looking to just sell a few things to students before finals week.
Self-published books, custom-made jewelry and handmade scented candles were some of the creative souvenirs available to promote small businesses and local artists.
Three executives of the Meadow Brook Ball fundraising committee, Lydianna Roshan, Mackenzie McKean and Maggie Quinn were present at the fair. “We are selling Christmas crafts to raise money for the Meadow Brook Ball that we will be running. And I believe tickets go on sale in January,” Quinn said. “Yes, and the ball is in March. It’s on March 28,” Roshan said.
“Since 1974 the Meadow Brook Ball Committee (MBBC) has hosted a ball in Meadow Brook Hall providing students with a night of food, dancing,
it is really, really cool. I have been looking for nice gifts for my friends and family for Christmas, and so that’s really cool, all of these unique gifts versus something from like a store,” OU student Josh Kilpela said when buying fabric patches.
“Yeah, that’s awesome. I’m really glad to be supporting something like that,” Kilpela said when notified that some stands were collecting funds for Oakland University’s future events and clubs.
“In 2015, I watched some Bob Ross’s video on YouTube and then a flip was switched in my brain and all of a sudden all the things that I wanted to paint I could finally make,” Tina Barr, a vendor of miniature paints, said. “Ever since then, I’ve just been traveling to different conventions and craft shows and talking to people about art and just getting immersed in the whole art culture.”
entertainment and lifelong memories,” the MMBC website says.
“We have sold a few of our bigger items, which is really good,” McKean said when asked about the success of the fair stand that sold ornaments, frames and quilts.
In order to organize such an event, fundraising efforts will continue. “[This is the] final one before the holidays, but we will try to do some, like, more before the ball in March,” McKean said.
“We are excited to be here at OU, this is our second year and Dutton Farm is a local non-profit here in Rochester and we support adults with developmental disabilities,” Kim Stocker said. “We make candles, and everything is very natural and it’s a way to give back to the community by employing some of our participants.”
Other attendees of the fair milled about each stand, asking questions about the products. “Well,
With the closing year, social media and new DIY trends have re-ignited an appreciation for handmade gifts. Even something as small as collaging pictures or creating a customized ornament or hat can show that a friend is in your thoughts throughout the holidays. The fair, though not continuously busy due to the upcoming exam week, was a success for early shoppers and for many stands that had run out of selected items by 2 p.m.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF ADRIAN JIMENEZ MORALES
Faculty awarded at Research, Innovation and Engagement Town Hall
ADRIAN JIMENEZ MORALES Campus Reporter
Increases in research grants, equipment upgrades and new funding programs were among the celebrated advances at the Research, Innovation and Engagement Town Hall Meeting.
On Dec. 2, the Research Office hosted their last town hall meeting at which six Oakland University faculty members received research awards, including a new lifetime award for excellence in laboratory support.
“Research means faculty success,” David A. Stone, Vice President for Research, said. “Our ability to give you the capability to do the work of discovery and innovation that you do, to attract more high-quality faculty, to retain high-quality faculty, that’s the very first reason that we have the research mission.”
During the 2024 fiscal year, 191 research proposals were submitted by OU faculty, grants paid for 190 graduate assistantships and OU was the fastest growing R2 in the country, Stone explained.
“I have noticed, reviewing surveys every year, that when Ora [Hirsch Pescovitz] was at [the University of] Michigan, they were number two in the country,” Stone said. “Now that she’s not at Michigan, they’re number four. We, on the other hand, have tripled research since she’s gotten here.”
External funding tripled since 2020 reaching $22.5 million this year, a historical accomplishment at the university, Stone explained. Meanwhile, research proposals topped $100 million in funding requests for the first time.
“We submitted 32 more grants last year than we had the year before,” Stone said. “190 has been pretty much our peak. Before that, we bumped up and down around the 190s, but we have never been at 223.”
Beyond the grants, awards and proposal records during 2024, the Innovation Center also opened its doors in May to increase the faculty’s ability to conduct research and expand collaborations with industry partnerships. The Laboratory for Outdoor Research, Agriculture, Conservation and Sustainability (LORACS) also culminated eight years of building efforts.
“I call that Mary Jamieson’s Crystal Palace, and I’m really excited about the work she and others are going to do out there,” Stone said. “Having this research space on the east side of campus, we’re just thrilled about it, and we want to do more outside work, ecological work, plant work.”
The installation of a high-capacity boiler will also allow for a cag washer and tunnel washer at OU, allowing for the resuming of operations that had been down for two years.
Internal funding programs also saw a renovation with three new programs announced last year.
The first was the International Research Experience for students to study abroad in Scotland, England, Costa Rica and Ghana. The second was Professor Smith Goes to Washington, allowing faculty to consult with federal agency staff. The UN Sustainability Goals is the last research funding program to encompass all areas of research at the university.
“[The programs] further the idea of a collaboration of which we hope to spawn funded research opportunities that are collaborative with other institutions,” Stone said.
The research office awarded six researchers and one department with glass plaques:
Zhe Wang received the President Ora Hirsch Pescovitz Innovation Award for his co-innovation on six pending or awarded patents.
Taras Oleksyk received the Researcher of the Year Award for his $3 million in research funding
Jun Chen received the Most Research Active Award and the Xiangqun Zeng Most Active Grant Seeker Award for his five external awarded grants and eight federal proposals submitted.
Michael Kranak received the Outstanding Junior Investigator Award for 17 submitted proposals and for more than 50 publications since coming to OU in 2020.
Huirong Fu received the Research-Led Teaching Award for her $1.7 million in funding and support of student research.
Kathie Lesich received the Kathie Lesich Award for Excellence in Laboratory Support
The Biological Sciences department received the Outstanding Research Department Award for their 16-funding project and more than $7 million in funding.
“I just wanted it to be known to the community that there are people like Kathy who actually are responsible for our ability to get grants, our ability to publish papers. She should be recognized for that,” Charles B. Lindemann, a retired professor at the Department of Biological Sciences, said.
Kresge Library’s Finals Frenzy event helps students relax durin g finals week
DANIELA CESARIO
Features Reporter
Finals week is synonymous with stress for students, but Oakland University’s Kresge Library is determined to help. In collaboration with the Oakland University Credit Union, the Kresge Library’s Finals Frenzy offers students the chance to decompress and recharge during one of the most challenging times of the semester.
“It was really relaxing being able to go into the library and get a snack or massage,” freshman Allie Michewicz said. “I, and many of my friends, are all stressed about exams, and being able to go to the library was a nice way of relaxing.”
Among the most popular options within the library were the free massages, providing students with an opportunity to relax tight muscles after hours spent hunched over textbooks and laptops. In addition to massages, students can enjoy snacks and hot chocolate at various stations set up throughout the library. The warmth and comfort of a steaming cup of cocoa have become a simple but effective way to brighten students’ days.
“It’s a small thing, but it makes a big difference,” freshman Natalie Berk said. “I’ve been pulling long hours trying to balance my study schedule, and sometimes it feels overwhelming. Just being able to grab a snack or a hot drink helps me reset and refocus. It’s a reminder that taking a small break can
actually make your study time more productive.”
A heavily anticipated element of the program is the inclusion of therapy dogs. These friendly pups will visit the library on Thursday, Dec. 12 at 12 p.m. to provide a much-needed dose of joy and companionship. Students are encouraged to take a few minutes to pet and interact with the dogs, which has been scientifically proven to lower cortisol levels and improve mood.
“Seeing the puppies instantly lifted my spirits after I had been studying all day for my exams,”
Michewicz said. “It reminded me to smile and take a breath, even during finals when a lot of students put pressure on themselves. It’s clear the university cares about our well-being and takes the time to make sure we are doing well.”
Sometimes you just need to get away from the noise and chaos of finals. These thoughtful touches create an environment where students can balance productivity with relaxation, ensuring they feel supported throughout finals week. There are many other activities to do around campus during these upcoming weeks.
“The library staff has worked tirelessly to create an atmosphere of support and understanding,” Berk said. Their goal is to provide students with resources and moments of peace that will help them succeed both academically and personally — a goal in line with Oakland’s commitment to making sure their students are feeling their best, especially during exam week.
Students have expressed immense gratitude for the initiative, with many saying it has made a noticeable impact on their ability to handle the pressures of finals. With the support of massages, snacks, hot chocolate, therapy dogs and relaxation spaces, students can tackle their exams with a little less stress and a lot more resilience.
For more information on the Kresge Library and their upcoming events, check out their calendar at libcal.oakland.edu.
University of Michigan triumphs over Ohio State in upset
DANIELA CESARIO
Campus Editor
The University of Michigan Wolverines pulled off a stunning victory against their archrivals, the Ohio State Buckeyes, in a dramatic showdown on Saturday, Nov. 30. The fifth-ranked Wolverines snapped an eight-game losing streak against Ohio State, breathing life and competition back into the historic rivalry.
“For Michigan fans like me, this victory was more than just a game, it was a redemption story,” freshman Heather Czekai said. “Considering that we really have not been on our A-game all season, this win really united everyone, especially now that we are four years straight of beating Ohio.”
Before 2021, the Wolverines had lost 17 of their last 20 rivalry clashes with the Buckeyes. The three-game winning streak since then featured a trio of College Football Playoff-bound and Big Ten Championship-winning Michigan teams — three of the strongest and most well-rounded squads in recent memory.
“The game itself was a rollercoaster of emotions,” freshman Blake Jahn said. “Michigan’s defense made critical stops, while their offense executed under pressure. This was the type of game you just had to be there for, it was unlike any game I have ever been to. The fans went into it expecting to get crushed, but to come out victorious was something no one expected.”
Based on the history, it’s not surprising that Michigan would be underestimated and overlooked. After all, the Buckeyes were the betting favorites to win a national title, playing at home with three years of pent-up anger to avenge.
The Wolverines were 6-5, with a first-year head coach and without both their star offensive and defensive players, in the midst of one of their worst seasons in recent memory.
“My family have all been lifetime Wolverine fans,” Czekai said. “We have had season tickets for forever and we have not missed a home game in years. Since I was a kid, I can remember cheering for Michigan, so this win was really something we were proud to see.”
This weekend’s game marks the first time since 1988-1991 that the Wolverines have won four in a row over Ohio State. On paper, Michigan was significantly outmatched. But rivalry games seldom come down to pure talent, and the Wolverines showed exactly why.
“After every play I thought that we were done,” Jahn said. “But Michigan kept their head above the water just long enough to make a pass or score. It might have been a little anticlimactic as a win, but it really did not matter because a win is a win. It was crazy to watch the two teams start fighting afterwards too, the whole field looked like a warzone.”
Saturday came down to the tougher team, the
more aggressive team, the team that simply wanted it more. From start to finish, that team was Michigan. Fans are already looking ahead to the Big Ten Championship and beyond, but for now, they’re savoring the moment. From now on, as the Wolverines ride a four-game winning streak in a new chapter of college football’s biggest rivalry, stop underestimating and overlooking. They deserve the respect.
GRAPHIC BY AVA GUEST
PHOTO COURTESY OF ABC NEWS
MALLORY WALIGORA
Political Editor
As December passes, “cuffing season” is in full swing. Do you want a winter romance? Imagine holding hands in mittens, cozying up by the fireplace and sharing a hot chocolate with your OU boyfriend. Check out OU’s most single, eligible bachelors who are officially on the market.
Bruce Sauerbry
Bruce is a freshman majoring in Environmental Science and Sustainability. He’s part of the Pollinators Conservation Organization and the Botany Club. In his free time, he likes playing video games, bowling and skateboarding. A fun fact about Bruce is he’s forklift certified.
For the first date, he’ll take you to Downtown Rochester. He’s looking for something serious. Email him at bsauerbry@oakland.edu.
Shiv Naik
Shiv is a sophomore majoring in Mechanical Engineering. For fun, Naik likes to listen to music and dance. “My friends describe me as a caring and loving individual who consistently shows loyalty and honesty,” Naik said.
Naik is looking for a campus fling, but is open to more. For the first date, you can expect a coffee date and a walk in the park.
Find him on Instagram @shivv_naikk.
DJ Williams
DJ is a junior majoring in Psychology. For fun, he likes to read, write and cook. “I volunteer at a camp for special needs kids,” Williams said. Williams is part of OUSC, the Creative Writing Club and Mission Kindness.
If you’re a cat girl, Williams is your guy, as he has two adorable cats of his own. He’s looking for companionship, loyalty and something serious. For the first date, he would take you out for ice cream or coffee. Email him at devlinwilliams@oakland.edu.
Mark Ceuca
Mark is a freshman majoring in Mechanical Engineering. In his free time, he enjoys playing pickleball and tennis. He is part of the Society of Automotive Engineers and the Mechanical Engineer Student Advisory Board.
His friends would describe him as, “academically smart, brain rotted to the core, deep NBA role player bag.” Ceuca wants someone who makes their intentions clear from the beginning but he’s, “down for anything.”
Reach out to him on Instagram @markceuca.
Peter Channo
Peter is a junior majoring in Biology. He is part of OU’s Dental Club and has aspirations to become a dentist. He’s also 6’3”, and is a huge Lions fan.
“I know Rochester like the back of my hand, so I definitely know how to treat a lady here,” Channo shared.
His friends would describe him as bubbly and selfless. Channo is looking for something serious and a good time.
Email him at peterchanno@oakland.edu.
Shane Strong
Shane is a junior majoring in Film Production. For fun, he makes ice cream and bakes pizza. Strong is looking for someone he can be friends with and hopefully grow a deeper connection later.
For the first date, he’ll take you to IKEA, which he described as the most fun place on Earth.
“We would browse all the furniture and bedroom designs we can’t afford and then go for dinner at the café,” Strong said. “If we’re feeling a second date, we’ll buy the liatorp, which we will construct. If we can do all of that without hating each other, we’re soul mates as far as I’m concerned.”
Find him on Instagram @stark_triss3.
PHOTO BY COURTNEY BLACKETT Peter Channo
PHOTO BY COURTNEY BLACKETT Shane Strong
PHOTO BY COURTNEY BLACKETT Mark Ceuca
PHOTO BY COURTNEY BLACKETT DJ Williams
Friday the 13th turned from scary to nostalgic at Oakland University with Y2K Night. Live music, retro outfits and vintage cameras took over Elliott Tower to commemorate the late 90s and early 2000s.
Hosted by the campus radio station, WXOU, the party included a DJ set by KARMEL, a Y2K outfit contest, cup pong tables and a live music set by The Rodri-bros.
Some students shared their thoughts on the most iconic Y2K aspects such as fashion, music and visual atmosphere.
“[The] first thing that came to mind was neon colors and ‘The Sweet Escape,’” Sydney Dochscader, a freshman, said. “That’s why I brought a Y2K tie with tech stuff I got from my dad.”
“It would definitely have to be the patterns, only patterns like cheetah print scream 2000s” Hayle Monjaras, a junior, said. “Prints were such a staple to the Y2K fashion. Also, music, what better way to remember the nostalgia of the 2000s than with the music?”
While bedazzled belts, cheetah prints, baggy pants and analog cameras were mentioned as staples of the Y2K experience, there was an almost unanimous consensus that the emblem of the late 90s and early 2000s was none other than Britney Spears.
“One of the most iconic things about the Y2K fashion is the creativity,” Monjaras said. “There [were] so many accessories, so many fun colors and patterns that were played with, people expressed themselves in so many different ways.”
After attendees grabbed refreshments, the Rodri-bros started their live music set, led in vocals by Andrew Deacon, WXOU
“When we were growing up, it was what we were seeing as kids,” Deacon said. “The Wii’s and DS’s — all the game consoles back then — the technology, the music, that’s what was on the radio and TV when we were growing up.”
“It’s the same way our parents were obsessed with the 70s and the 80s, it’s the love for what was around when we were younger,” Deacon said.
As the party concluded, students also expressed an interest in seeing similar thematic events centered around the 80s and the 90s on OU’s campus in the future.
For information about upcoming events, visit WXOU’s Instagram and GrizzOrgs.
Story by Adrian Jimenez Morales Design by Megan Judy
Photos by Adrian Jimenez Morales
From Nov. 29 to Dec. 23, Meadow Brook Hall unboxes countless glamorous ornaments to adorn the halls and grounds of Matilda Dodge Wilson’s mansion. The best part — Oakland University students can tour the historic abode in the Holiday Walk for free.
For more than 50 years, the 110-room residence has opened its doors to the community during the holiday season to experience its splendor with a touch of gingerbread and spruce. In a self-guided indoor tour, attendees can wander through halls and vestibules for around an hour.
The already garnished corridors and chambers take on new life as winter foliage and fairy lights embellish dark wood panels and chiseled plaster ceilings. The mesmerizing experience is complemented by a live organ performance by Ven Schuwssler.
“I think it is a great tour,” sophomore Antonio Beltran said. “The lights, the trees, it’s all pretty cool. It’s my first time visiting as well so it is double the amusement.”
On the first level, one can find Matilda’s study, where she would manage household business after breakfast. Today, the study remembers her accomplishments, and champions Wilson for the achievements and developments ahead of her time.
Lining the walls of the first-floor library is a Rudyard Kipling novel collection and Charles Émile Jacque’s paintings — the latter of which being an intimate remembrance of Matilda’s childhood in Canada.
“It is really impressive to imagine families living here back in the day,” junior Itza Juarez said. “I’d love to have a
place like this for myself but in the meantime, coming here is a great option.”
Standing at 1,340 sq. ft., the first floor living room introduces guests to intimate conversation circles where the Wilsons would host wedding ceremonies. The gathering spot also featured a ceiling molded after the Knole House in England.
Blending seamlessly with the adornments and artifacts, little info cards caught visitors’ eyes wherever they looked, as if whispering the knowledge behind the beauty emanated by Matilda’s estate.
Every room, hallway, foyer and room had a themed Christmas tree, featuring at least 50 different ones. Colors, shapes and adornments were a few of the distinctive features that built the themed trees in the Tudor-style mansion.
Although self-guided, tour guides awaited on the corridors and corners of the cultural center to direct anyone who might get lost on the three floors or to share the secrets of the guest rooms and nurseries.
All chambers adorned with a Christmas tree also featured particular artifacts belonging to the family and a brief description of a regular day spent at the room. Dresses, breakfast sets, kid’s toys and sewing machines conveyed the everyday life of OU’s founding family.
Just like in 1939, Frank Sinatra waited in one of the guest rooms to surprise attendees. He performed with the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra at Meadow Brook to celebrate Frances Dodge’s 25th birthday. Scattered through the family’s rooms are snippets of Sinatra’s visit to the estate, reflecting the residence’s splendor and liveliness.
For the full experience, OU students can book a Holiday Walk for free and other community members can book the same experience for a ticket price up to $21. After sunset, Meadow Brook Hall transforms into the Winter Wonder Lights experience with illuminated bonfires, glow-in-thedark cotton candy and other festive amenities.
2025: What’s in and what’s out
MORGAN WARNEKE Content Editor
As we approach the end of the year, it’s the perfect time to reflect on what we want more of — and less of — in 2025. Think of this as a collective resolution for all of humanity. We have seen what works and what doesn’t, so now we must decide what we’re going to take with us and what we’re going to leave behind.
Welcome to my 2025 vibe report: what’s in, what’s out and how we can all live our best lives come the new year.
Live music is in — and I don’t mean sold-out arena shows with thousands of screaming fans. If you want live entertainment, go to a nearby venue or a restaurant that serves as a hotspot for local bands. Not only is this a great way to support up and coming musicians, but it creates a sense of the community that the world so desperately needs.
That being said: Ticketmaster is out. I’m tired of trying to buy a concert ticket and being hit with an accumulation of random fees, paying for extra ticket protection and then being kicked out of the queue and replaced by a reseller. I know that Ticketmaster is essentially an empire at this point, but in 2025, you may want to join me in considering other alternatives, such as StubHub or VividSeats.
Speaking of community, attending campus events hosted by student organizations is in! This is an amazing way to create lasting connections in college. Your classmates don’t have to be complete strangers,
and you can join a club regardless of if it relates to your chosen field or not. At Oakland University, there are so many fun ways to engage with others that don’t include additional coursework.
Long-form content is in. Going to the library is in. Physical media is in. Asking a question on the internet and finding the answer within an article instead of through AI is IN! Even if you don’t like to read, you can go to the library for video games, cameras or any of your technological needs. In 2025, we are taking advantage of the resources available to us.
X is out. I know it’s hard to let go, but I have come
Best albums of the decade (so far)
CHELSEA BOSSERT Arts Editor
It is the end of 2024, and that means that the 2020s are halfway over. From a decade that has brought us the rise of new pop superstars, the comeback of country music and the fall of rap as music’s darling — a lot has happened in the last five years. I am going to go over this decade’s best releases in music, while taking a look at a variety of different genres. Specifically: hip-hop, pop, rock, folk/country and jazz.
This list was a brutal task to go over, from selecting the best records of a certain genre and assigning them to a specific year in the list — I really had a hard time mulling it over. However, I am confident in saying that these are the best albums of the decade (so far).
“Punisher” — Phoebe Bridgers (2020)
A lot can be said about the first entry on this list. “Punisher” by Phoebe Bridgers is a folk record that blows the socks off of every “sad-girl-indie” folk release of the decade. It started off the 2020s with a “BANG.”
“Kyoto,” the most popular song from that record is a driving, triumphant behemoth of a track. It lays the groundwork for an emotionally vulnerable album that takes us through Phoebe’s psyche and her turbulent relationship with her father. “Chinese Satellite,” “ICU,” “Halloween” and “I Know The End” are some of my favorite cuts from that record.
Mark my words — “Punisher,” along with Phoebe’s first record, “Stranger in the Alps,” will set a glorious precedent for indie folk albums in the next decade or so.
“HEY WHAT” — Low (2021)
After the passing of Low drummer, Mimi Parker, two years ago, I had a newfound appreciation for the longtime slowcore act’s thirteenth record. “HEY WHAT” laughs in the face of adversity, and challenges the norms of rock music. It is by far the most experimental record on this list, but I definitely find it the most interesting listen.
“HEY WHAT” draws from the darkest corners of industrial, ambient, experimental and electronic music to fuse every single idea that Parker and co-founder, Alan Sparhawk, could manage. “Days Like These” is the centerpiece of the record, and will make you feel a lot of emotions: sadness, confusion, disgust, paranoia and completeness. It encapsulates the idea of stagnation — and how you eventually can die from it. Along with that track, I’d recommend “White Horses,” “I Can Wait” and “Disappearing.”
“The Forever Story” — JID (2022)
JID’s third album is the best rap album of the decade for me, by far. In a decade that has been struggling to find new superstars that do not die tragically young, JID’s “The Forever Story” is an inspirational piece of work that takes the listener on a sonic odyssey through JID’s childhood, his teen years and career as a Dreamville-singed rap-star.
“Surround Sound” is a hit, with over 600 million streams on Spotify — and counting — along with banger after banger like, “Dance Now,” “Can’t Punk
across the perfect alternative: BlueSky. It’s essentially what X (formerly Twitter) used to be, before the influx of unregulated content, hate speech and political propaganda. And while we’re on the topic of the internet — social media challenges are also out. It was fun when we did the mannequin challenge, but now people are eating tide pods and lighting themselves on fire. We should probably just go back to ding-dong ditching. And while we’re at it, let’s say that filming strangers in public is also out. It seems to be a trend to film things that you see at school, work or the gym. Nobody wants to log on and see that they’ve unwillingly gone viral.
In 2025, outside activities are in — when the weather gets better, of course. I would encourage everyone to start having picnics with their friends and family. When’s the last time that you laid out a blanket, ate a homemade lunch and did some kind of creative activity? It’s therapeutic, and it’s free. Homemade gifts are in, and so is going to secondhand stores. Doomscrolling is OUT! It’s time to get hands-on by crocheting, painting, scrapbooking, playing an instrument, etc.
My overall theme for my vibe report is to create, build community and support others. In my ideal world, there’s less time lost to doomscrolling and more time spent engaging with your peers. I’m guilty of this, so I will be holding all of you (and myself) accountable. What’s in your 2025 vibe report?
Me” and “Money,” JID has it. “It” being a relative term, but even if JID didn’t have the star power that he has now, “The Forever Story” would still be a strong contender on the list of this decade’s best.
JID’s rapping technicality is some of the best out there today. His flow is fast, but not blistering. His lyrics are provocative, but not reliant on shock-value. Most of all, he can use his vocal range in superbly effective ways. JID has been in the rap game for a while now, but with albums like this, it won’t be long until he is cemented as one of the greats.
“Did You Know There’s a Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd” — Lana Del Rey (2023)
“Wallsocket” by the indie electropop artist, Underscores, was my favorite overall record from last year. However, the single, “A&W” by now industry veteran Lana Del Rey has secured its spot on top as my favorite pop song of the year. “A&W” is not the only hard-hitting and emotional cut on this dark, brooding album. “Let The Light In,” “Peppers,” “Taco Truck x VB” and “The Grants” pull out all of the stops and cement Lana Del Rey as one of the smartest and most mature songwriters of the last five years.
She effortlessly balances serious and lighthearted subjects in a classy and elegant way. Her aura on most of these tracks comes off as confident as Madonna at times. Lana and her now-classic 2019 record, “Norman F*cking Rockwell,” now has a competitor for her best work.
(Continue reading on our website)
PHOTO BY MORGAN WARNEKE
Chill out over winter break with these gift-giving flicks
MOE DEL ROSARIO Arts Reporter
The end of the fall semester provides a break from school, stress and other factors that might be keeping students busy. This, of course, means more time for cozy movie nights with friends and hot chocolate.
Here are some winter movies to watch over the break as we celebrate the season changing.
“Let It Snow” dir. Luke Snellin
Rom com lovers rejoiced with “Let It Snow” upon its release in 2019. The film follows a group of young adults stuck in their town because of a snowstorm. The friend group consists of eight different people who slowly become friends, with some duos becoming more. They have to manage their holidays together while their lives slowly become more intertwined.
The cast of the film has some familiar faces, including Mitchell Hope, Isabela Merced, Kiernan Shipka, Shameik Moore, Liv Hewson, Jacob Batalon and Mason Gooding.
“Happiest Season” dir. Clea DuVall
Another rom-com, “Happiest Season,” was released in 2020 and highly anticipated because of the film’s director, Clea DuVall, being well known in the sapphic community.
The film follows closeted sapphic, Harper, who invites her girlfriend, Abby, to her family’s Christmas celebration. Unbeknownst to Abby, Harper hasn’t come out to her family, and she instead has to pretend to be
Harper’s roommate. Well-known names star in the film consisting of Kristen Stewart, Aubrey Plaza and Mackenzie Davis.
“The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe” dir. Andrew Adamson
A classic to our generation, “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe,” isn’t exactly a holiday movie, but with the snowy landscape and its release date of Dec. 9, it has become a fan favorite over the years.
The film follows four siblings who accidentally find themselves climbing through a magical wardrobe that transports them to Narnia, a mystical land inhabited by fairytale creatures that’s in the midst of a war. Georgie Henley, Anna Popplewell,
William Moseley and Skandar Keynes star in this fantastical 2005 film.
“Carol” dir. Todd Haynes
“Carol” is a romance film that takes a more serious approach in their rendition of a holiday relationship. The film released in 2015 to positive reviews and won 104 awards praising the acting and storyline.
The film revolves around aspiring photographer, Therese Belivet, and her whirlwind romance with the older and mid-divorcee, Carol Aird. The two quickly fall in love — but with the film taking place in 1952 along with other complications, the pair have to navigate their tumultuous relationship.
The film stars talented actresses Cate Blanchett as the titular character and Rooney Mara as Therese.
“Little Women” dir. Greta Gerwig
“Little Women” is another classic with several remakes spanning over decades. The 2019 remake was directed by the well-known Greta Gerwig and won numerous Academy Awards for its costume design.
The film follows four sisters going through the trials and tribulations of life, with each having their own dreams and desires while struggling to factor in their expectations and traditions. “Little Women” tackles sisterhood, feminism and death. Known for its cast, the film stars Saoirse Ronan, Florence Pugh, Emma Watson, Eliza Scanlen and Timothée Chalamet.
These films should help all of you get into the holiday spirit. Grab your thickest blanket, your sweetest hot chocolate, your favorite pajamas and enjoy the break!
PHOTO COURTESY OF NETFLIX
United Healthcare CEO killed in ‘targeted attack’
MORGAN WARNEKE Content Editor
On Dec. 4, 2024, in the early hours of the morning, United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson was fatally shot while walking in Manhattan, New York. After being rushed to Mount Sinai West Hospital, Thompson was declared dead.
Surveillance footage released by CNN captures Thompson walking towards the company’s annual investor conference before being shot three times from behind by an unmasked gunman. The gun briefly malfunctioned, but the suspect swiftly cleared the jam and fired again, ignoring innocent bystanders as they fled the scene.
“Every indication is that this was a premeditated, preplanned, targeted attack,” Jessica Tisch, NYPD Commissioner, said.
“It does seem that he’s proficient in the use of firearms, as he was able to clear the malfunctions pretty quickly,” Joe Kenny, NYPD Chief of Detectives, said.
After the shooting, the gunman rode into Central Park on an e-bike, disposing of evidence along the way. On Dec. 6, The New York Police Department (NYPD) recovered a backpack containing a Tommy Hilfiger jacket and Monopoly money. Multiple images have been released of the suspected gunman, and it is believed that the suspect is no longer in New York City.
According to the NYPD, the words “delay,” “depose” and “deny” were written on the shell casings of the
bullets fired. Police are led to believe that these phrases are in reference to a popular phrase in the insurance industry: “delay, deny, defend.”
It’s suspected that Thompson was targeted due to United Healthcare denying an estimated one-third of submitted claims. Earlier this year, a Senate committee concluded that United Healthcare, along with two other companies, were intentionally denying claims in order to increase profits. The company was also accused of using a faulty AI algorithm to deny elderly patients extended care.
A post announcing the death of Brian Thompson on UnitedHealthCare’s Facebook page received a response of more than 42,000 laughter emojis — causing the post to be deleted shortly after.
“We are deeply saddened and shocked at the passing of our dear friend and colleague Brian Thompson, the CEO of United Healthcare … Our hearts go out to Brian’s family and all who were close to him,” United Healthcare said in a written statement released on their website.
While United Healthcare isn’t solely responsible for the state of the insurance industry, the death of a medical insurance CEO has sparked controversy. Many are using it as an opportunity to partake in discussions geared towards the injustices of the healthcare industry, voicing their anger towards high deductibles, denial of coverage and overall healthcare costs.
“Today, we mourn the death of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson, gunned down … wait, I’m sorry — today we mourn the deaths of the 68,000 Americans who needlessly die each year so that insurance company execs like Brian Thompson can become multimillionaires,” a professor at Columbia University said in a post on X.
As of Dec. 8, after a five-day manhunt, the New York City Mayor confirmed that authorities have ID’d the suspected gunman and are closing in on him. While evidence is awaiting forensic results, there is now a $60,000 reward for any information leading to an arrest and conviction. Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to DM @NYPDTips on X or Instagram.
Labor unions support Trump’s Labor Secretary pick
NICHOLAS
KABLAK Political Reporter
Donald Trump has selected Lori Chavez-DeRemer, a pro-union ex-House Republican, as his administration’s Secretary of Labor. Unions and those on the political Left have expressed hope and skepticism about this selection as a changing Republican party begins to take form.
The Secretary of Labor is responsible for overseeing the Department of Labor, ensuring that the department enforces labor regulations and laws, creates new laws related to workers to be presented to Congress and collects job statistics. Thus, the organization of the Department of Labor determines the relationship that businesses and labor unions have with the federal government and each other.
“I’m proud to be endorsed by a powerful coalition of supporters who work every day to strengthen our communities. From first responders and labor unions to small businesses and environmental advocates,” Chavez-DeRemer said in a post on X.
Many labor unions have supported ChavezDeRemer as Trump’s Labor Secretary. Notably, the Teamsters Union has endorsed Chavez-DeRemer. Other unions have shown support for Chaves-DeRemer but remain skeptical of the Trump administration and the Republican party, such as the National Education Association (NEA).
“Congratulations to @LChavezDeRemer on your nomination! North America’s strongest union is ready to work with you every step of the way to expand good union jobs and rebuild our nation’s middle class,” President of the Teamsters Union Sean O’Brien said in a post on X.
It is no shock that Chavez-DeRemer has received such support from labor unions even though she has strongly advocated for Trump. She has consistently been a prounion voice in the GOP, even backing the PRO-Act, a piece of legislation pushed by the Biden administration to greatly reduce labor union restrictions.
“President Trump expanded on his Working Class coalition by speaking directly to hardworking Americans. This is a true political realignment. We must continue to be the party of the American Worker,” Chavez-DeRemer said in a post on X.
During Trump’s first term, he selected pro-business
individuals, like Eugine Scalia, for key positions and generally reduced regulations on labor. For these reasons, some find it debatable what direction the administration will go in.
“This record [Chavez-DeRemer’s] stands in stark contrast to Donald Trump’s anti-worker, anti-union record, and his extreme Project 2025 agenda that would gut workplace protections, make it harder for workers to unionize, and diminish the voice of working people,”
The NEA said in a statement.
The inclusion of pro-union individuals in Trump’s administration is another example of the Republican party’s changing character. Trump’s diverse ideological group in his administration paints a picture of a coalition.
Whereas at one time, under the Bush administration or even under the first Trump administration, the neoconservative faction was dominant in the Republican party — largely dictating the national policies from labor to foreign relations.
Look no further than the fact that ex-Democrats like Robert Kennedy Jr. and Tulsi Gabbard will coexist in the same administration as neo-Conservatives like Marco Rubio and billionaire technologists like Elon Musk.
There are predictable aspects of the Trump administration, but many of the directions and choices represent the various interests that Trump has come to champion. Some of these interests may be contradictory, though he must balance competing ideals.
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE NYPD
PHOTO COURTESY OF AP NEWS
Trump nominates Kash Patel as FBI Director
NICHOLAS KABLAK Political Reporter
Donald Trump said he will nominate Kash Patel as the incoming administration’s next FBI Director. Patel is a popular figure in Conservative media with a history serving Trump during his first term. Patel is known as an anti-establishment figure in Washington, D.C.
“Kash did an incredible job during my First Term, where he served as Chief of Staff at the Department of Defense, Deputy Director of National Intelligence and Senior Director for Counterterrorism at the National Security Council,” Trump said in a Truth Social post.
The FBI Director is the primary supervisor and manager of the FBI, which is described as the investigative arm of the Department of Justice. The FBI is responsible for federal criminal investigations and has become increasingly involved in intelligence gathering and surveillance, being described as having the broadest investigative powers in the federal government.
If confirmed by the Senate, and after Trump fires the sitting FBI director Christopher Wray, Patel will have a 10-year term as FBI Director and will be a critical part of the Trump administration. Patel will likely act as the enforcer of Trump’s policies for the FBI.
Vision
Patel has made clear that he wants to cut and slash the FBI radically, looking to decrease the agency’s
spending and influence and return it to more essential criminal prosecutions. He has spoken extensively on his view that the FBI has become corrupt and needs to be reformed.
“I’d shut down the FBI Hoover building on day one and reopen it the next day as a museum of the Deep State, and I’d take the 7,000 employees that work in that building and send them across America to chase down criminals,” Patel said.
Patel has also railed against government abuse of surveillance powers, within the FBI and elsewhere. Patel claims that the powers that were originally meant for American safety have been abused by corrupt officials for political reasons.
Patel has specifically highlighted the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), which allows
the Federal Government to survey foreign threats to the U.S. with a warrant, as a specific example of a federal surveillance tool being turned on Americans.
“There’s another application of FISA called 702 … it’s just another vector into how we collect certain data … we’re not supposed to use it here in the United States of America. Chris Ray was caught last year illegally using 702 collection methods against Americans 274,000 times,” Patel said.
Patel wants a sweeping reform of FISA. Likewise, Patel wants to reform many things in the intelligence community.
Concerns
Some have brought up concerns that Patel will simply be a loyalist to Trump and help Trump enact political vengeance on his enemies. Some critics have also said that Patel is underqualified for the job, having little direct experience in the FBI.
“We will go out and find the conspirators, not just in the government but in the media, yes we are going to come after the people in the media who lied about American citizens … whether it’s criminally or civilly we will figure that out,” Patel said.
Some have argued that Patel, if given the opportunity, will go after political enemies of Trump. Those who defend this position will claim that those enemies are legitimately corrupt and negative influences on American society and ought to be prosecuted.
It is unclear what exactly Patel will do in the position of FBI Director, and whether he will be the powerful driving reformer or the hand of retribution.
PHOTO COURTESY OF WHYY
Golden Grizzlies men’s basketball secures thrilling conference opener
KURT SZYMANSKI
Sports Editor
On Thursday, Dec. 5, the Oakland men’s basketball team made a statement, outlasting the Wright State Raiders 66-64 at the OU Credit Union O’Rena, marking their first conference win of the season.
“We just held the best offensive team in our league and one of the best mid-major offenses in the country to 64 points on a night they made 16 of 31 from the three,” head coach Greg Kampe said. “That’s almost impossible to believe.”
Although it might be impossible to believe, the Golden Grizzlies got the job done against a Wright State team that was red-hot from beyond the arc. The Raiders converted 51.6% of their tries from deep but were held to just six conversions all game from inside the three-point line.
For Oakland, Allen Mukeba filled the stat sheet with a team-high 16 points, seven rebounds and four assists. Additionally, Buru Naivalurua had his moments, scoring a super-efficient 14 points while coming down with seven rebounds.
Naivalurua’s growth as a player has been one key to Oakland’s success so far this season. Now that Naivalurua commands a starting position for the Golden Grizzlies, he has averaged 12.6 points, 7.6 rebounds and just over a steal per game, all improvements from the previous season.
“We’ve always thought bringing him here that he was a first-team all-league level player, and we knew that he could get there,” Kampe said about
Naivalurua. “He’s still working on getting there, but he will get there, and next year, I think he could be player of the league. He could be every bit of what Trey Townsend was.”
On the other side of the court, the Raiders had three players lead the team in scoring, including Alex Huibregtse, Solomon Callaghan and Andrew Welage, who all contributed 12 points. Jack Doumbia came away with the most boards, with six off the bench.
In the first half, the Golden Grizzlies came out full steam ahead, backed by a pair of three-pointers from Jayson Woodrich. Cooper Craggs and DQ Cole joined in on the three-point party early as Oakland quickly established a double-digit lead.
Oakland’s momentum didn’t last long, as the
Raiders slowly chipped into the Oakland lead, taking their first lead with just under eight minutes left. From there, it was back-and-forth between both teams before Naivalurua buried a buzzer-beater corner three that got the crowd on their feet, ending the half in favor of Oakland, 37-34.
The Golden Grizzlies got back to business in the opening moments of the second half, with another three from Woodrich and two close-range jumpers from Naivalurua bolstering the Oakland lead. Still, Wright State persisted, going on a 9-0 run to tie the game at 48-48.
As time passed in the second, neither Oakland nor Wright State could build a comfortable lead, leading to a tie-ball game with under three minutes left.
With the score at a standstill, the Golden Grizzlies walled up on defense, disallowing a single bucket the rest of the night for the Raiders. Mukeba hit the go-ahead basket with a tough layup at the oneminute mark, giving Oakland the win.
Up next, the Golden Grizzlies will turn their attention to Detroit to take on the Michigan State Spartans at Little Caesars Arena on Tuesday, Dec. 17. The match against the Spartans marks the 13th consecutive year both programs will face each other with tip-off set for 7 p.m.
After that, Oakland will play Cleveland State on the road in their third conference match on Thursday, Dec. 19, before competing in the Hawaiian Airlines Diamond Head Classic from Dec. 22 through Dec. 25.
Oakland men’s basketball falls on the road to Youngstown State
EVAN BLANCHARD
Sports Reporter
After a great win over Wright State in the conference home opener, the Oakland men’s basketball team couldn’t pull off a win on the road against the Youngstown State (YSU) Penguins.
After a promising offensive outburst against Toledo, where the team scored 85 points, the scoring production plummeted down to just 50 points. It’s a frustrating loss for a team that only scored over 70 points in one other game (Defiance).
Oakland opened the game with a quick 9-3 lead, attempting to establish forward Allen Mukeba inside. The senior from Belgium scored twice before kicking out to Cooper Craggs for a three. Youngstown fought back, aided by three early three-pointers from E.J. Farmer that tied the score at 9-9 five minutes into the game. Both teams struggled to score the ball all game; frequent turnovers and missed shots led to prolonged droughts.
OU held a 14-11 lead for a while after Malcolm Christie made all three free throws off a foul. Another Mukeba layup added to his point total on the day.
An over-three-minute drought ended with a Youngstown layup. The Golden Grizzlies would hold the lead until 7:43 in the first half after two quick layups from the Penguins. DQ Cole made up for a previous turnover with a layup of his own to
tie it at 17.
A few seconds later, Cole would commit a foul on a Juwan Maxey three-pointer. Maxey would hit two of three, reclaiming the lead. On the next YSU trip down the floor, Maxey would get fouled again, nailing two of two for a four-point lead.
OU couldn’t be held down long. Cole came down the floor and nailed a three-pointer assisted by Cooper Craggs before Mukeba hit a jumper of his own to bring Oakland down 22-23.
Unfortunately, the Penguins had a quick run in them before the half, ripping off a quick 9-1 spurt. Maxey continued to be a thorn in the Golden Grizzlies’ side, hitting a three and two more free throws. He scored 11 in the half for YSU, helping the Penguins to a 32-23 lead.
A scoring eruption opened up the second half. Youngstown’s Farmer reasserted himself in the game after an explosive start; he was fouled on a threepointer and made all his free throws before drilling another three and making a layup. By the under-16minute timeout, YSU had expanded their lead to 4530 as Mukeba made two layups of his own.
Oakland turned to Buru Naivalarua to score early in the half. He made a short jumper between a few other misses. When OU called a timeout at 12:20 left in the half, the Golden Grizzlies had only let up one more basket to Youngstown but had just scored one basket of their own. A 47-32 deficit loomed, appearing especially daunting amidst the team’s
shooting struggles.
The Golden Grizzlies appeared to show signs of life after two made Cole free throws. Mukeba again made his presence felt with a layup and a jumper, shrinking YSU’s lead to nine points with under 10 minutes to go. Nico Galette of Youngstown quickly responded, making an and-one layup that stole the momentum from OU. Galette was a nuisance for Oakland all day, finishing with 11 points, nine rebounds, six assists and two steals.
Coming out of the under-8-minute timeout, Youngstown’s Jason Nelson drilled a three-pointer, giving them a 55-38 lead. Youngstown would immediately respond to every Oakland basket. OU couldn’t string together enough stops to cut the game back to single digits.
After two Naivalarua layups and a Cole jumper, Oakland found themselves down 62-46 with 3 minutes left to play. Coach Kampe acquiesced down the line and put in some of his bench players. Youngstown closed out the win 66-50.
The only bright spot in an otherwise dreadful game was forward Isaiah Jones’s return from a foot injury. He scored a layup to end the game. His health and leadership will be greatly needed for the remainder of the season.
The Golden Grizzlies shot a dreadful 2-16 from the three, easily in the bottom 10 of Division I. OU must find ways to score the ball if they’re going to succeed.
PHOTO BY KATIE REID
Oakland women’s basketball claims first conference win of the se ason
KURT SZYMANSKI Sports Editor
The Golden Grizzlies women’s basketball team came away with a lofty 84-70 win over the Wright State Raiders at the OU Credit Union O’Rena on Friday, Dec. 6.
The win shifts the Golden Grizzlies record to 3-6. Although Oakland’s record isn’t the most glamorous, the Golden Grizzlies have faced a gauntlet of tough non-conference opponents to start their season.
Just two of Oakland’s opponents this season, the Central Michigan Chippewas and the Raiders, have a losing record. Oakland’s other matchups have been against teams with comfortable winning records, including the Michigan State Spartans, who have yet to lose a game this season.
For Oakland, Maddy Skorupski led the team in scoring, tallying 21 points, five rebounds and a team-high eight assists. Macy Smith and Lianna Baxter were also key players in the win, scoring 16 and 14 points, respectively.
Meanwhile, Wright State saw most of its scoring come from Rylee Sagester, who had 17 points — in addition to Sagester, Chloe Chard Peloquin and Amaya Staton contributed doubledigit scoring efforts.
In the first quarter, the game remained quite
competitive. Sereniti Roberts-Adams scored the first point for the Golden Grizzlies with a tough layup following a pair of free throws from Raider Amaya Staton.
The rest of the first saw back-and-forth action between both teams. As soon as either team got ahead, the opposing team always had an answer. It looked like the quarter would end with both teams tied. However, Sagester knocked down a lastsecond three to put the Raiders ahead 18-15.
Down a possession, Oakland entered the second quarter with aggression on both sides of the court. Baxter started things with a layup on the Golden Grizzlies’ first possession before knocking down a three on the next, moving the lead back in Oakland’s favor.
From there, the Golden Grizzlies forcefully attacked the paint, getting high-percentage shots and drawing multiple fouls, leading to a flurry of trips to the free-throw line. Notably, the Golden Grizzlies were extremely efficient from the charity stripe in the second, missing just one of their 11 attempts.
With the Oakland offense in rhythm, the defense followed suit and the Raiders struggled to find a bucket. By the quarter’s end, Wright State converted just 13.3% of their shots as Oakland went into the half with a staggering 39-24 lead.
Coming out of the break, Wright State’s offensive
woes continued as the Golden Grizzlies built on their lead. However, midway through the third quarter, the Raiders started to gain momentum after Abbie Riddle converted a layup.
Riddle’s layup jumpstarted an 11-0 Raider run that lasted over three minutes, erasing the Golden Grizzlies’ double-digit lead. Fortunately for Oakland, Smith knocked down a three to end Wright State’s run as the Golden Grizzlies ended the quarter still ahead 58-47.
In the fourth quarter, Oakland’s efficient scoring continued. The Raiders put up a fight, not letting the Golden Grizzly lead get too impractical. However, Wright State could not break through a tough Oakland defense, giving the Golden Grizzlies a crucial win on the season.
The Golden Grizzlies came together on both sides of the court in the win, which is a good sign going forward into the season. Notably, Oakland’s defensive effort kept two of Wright State’s top scorers, Claire Henson and Macie Taylor, at bay, as the duo combined for just six points.
Next, the Golden Grizzlies will continue conference play as they travel to Pennsylvania to take on the Robert Morris Colonials on Wednesday, Dec. 18. Following the match against the Colonials, Oakland will wrap up its non-conference slate on the road against the Indiana Hoosiers on Sunday, Dec. 22.
Track and Field breaks four records at Grand Valley State
EVAN BLANCHARD Sports
Reporter
The Oakland University track and field team began their season last Friday, Dec. 6, with trips to Grand Valley State University and Saginaw Valley State University. Four school records were set at the meets, establishing a strong start for the season.
Grand Valley State University
Ke’vina Finch started the Golden Grizzlies strong with a first-place finish in the women’s 60-meter race with a time of 7.57 seconds. She was followed closely by Lauren Goodman, who took sixth place in the event.
Finch would quickly earn another first place in the 200-meter race. Her time of 24.66 seconds set an Oakland record. Goodman was again right on her tail, while Jaylin Washington finished 10th. It was Finch’s first time setting a school record for OU.
“I make sure I fuel properly and stay hydrated. It’s also important for me to remain in a positive mindset by constantly listening to music when leading up to the big day,” Finch said.
Abby Jackson made her presence felt in the women’s 800-meter, finishing third at 2:13.51. Graduate student Ashley Quinn came in fifth, and Karenna Duffey earned seventh.
In the men’s 5000-meter race, Wesley Hollowell
came in third place. After an excellent cross-country season with the Golden Grizzlies, Hollowell ran a 14:35.17 in the race.
The men excelled in the 800-meter race, with Tyler Donovan and TJ Brooks taking the two top spots. Donovan set a school record, going 1:51.35 and placing first in the event.
“It feels super surreal because so much had to go right. It’s so rare to get a school record as a freshman, so to do it as a first race is unreal,” Donovan said.
Despite being a freshman, his competitive spirit and drive have helped him fit right in with the rest of the team.
“I’m looking to run sub-1:50 in the 800-meter and get a conference title in the 800-meter,” Donovan said on his goals for the season.
Later in the afternoon, Alex Mansfield threw a school record in shot put, tossing the 16-pound shot 17.52 meters. With so many school records being set in just the first event, it’s clear that Oakland will be achieving all season long.
It wasn’t long after Mansfield’s record that teammate Romario Jackson set his own record. Thanks to the senior, the new weight throw record for OU is 19.37 meters.
“I do a lot of meditation, oftentimes pray, and take long walks. This helps me get my mind ready for the intensity and helps me stay level,” Jackson said. “My goal for this year is to get above 21
meters, which will hopefully take me to NCAA championships. I also want to reset the Horizon League championship record.”
In the women’s weight throw, Oakland boasted two top-10 finishes. Jamie Giese took fourth, while Elizabeth Rice came in seventh.
Saginaw Valley State University
Over at Saginaw Valley, the other part of the OU track and field team was competing.
Senior Christian Collis earned a sixth-place finish in the men’s 3000-meter, while the Oakland women dominated their races. Five Golden Grizzlies finished in the top 10, led by Madalyn Agren in second at 10:51.01. Miriam Murrell and Addison Johnson came in fifth and sixth, just ahead of Emma Hoffmeyer in ninth. Mackenzie Lemke rounded it out for the Golden Grizzlies in tenth.
Finally, two Golden Grizzlies tied for fifth in the women’s pole vault. Freshman Allison Shelton went up 3.32 meters, matching senior Alexa Messina.
Overall, Oakland’s excellent start to a long season was a sign that the Golden Grizzlies will break even more records. However, the athletes aren’t satisfied, and Finch acknowledged that.
“Since I ran past my expectations, I know I need to raise the bar for myself,” Finch said. “The main goal is just improving and, in practice, ultimately getting top three or better in the conference.”
