September 30, 2020 | Issue 1 by Reddie Media

THE

ORACLE

Henderson

State

Wednesday Sept. 30, 2020

University

Issue 1

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, students focus intently as they are taught the basics of the famous cuban dance the “salsa.” Photo by Karen Villeda

Vol.118

Henderson honors Hispanic heritage League of Latinos enlightens student body

KaBryn Grayson Managing Editor

Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates contributions by Hispanic Americans that have had a positive influence on our society and the rich culture of Hispanic and Latin Americans from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. This holiday was first observed in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson. In 1988, it was expanded by President Ronald Reagan to cover a 30-day period starting on September 15 and ending on October 15. It was enacted into law on Aug. 17, 1988, on the approval of Public Law 100-402. The date of Sept. 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for the Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. Other major holidays are also recognized within this time period. Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on Sept. 16 and 18, respectively. Columbus Day or Día de la Raza, falls on Oct. 12. Celebrat i ng his heritage is vital to freshman, Alex Deichert, “it means a lot to me because this month focuses and acknowledges our culture and gives the deeper meaning and explanation on what our culture is and

what it means to us growing up with it from the food, to the songs, and even to the clothing.” Henderson has hosted several events in an effort to not only celebrate Hispanic heritage but share that with the student body. This is something freshman Alexander Deichert thinks not only HSU but the United States could use right now. “During these times, unfortunately, we have unequal rights and injustice for citizens in this country that aren’t acknowledged.” Deichert said. “I feel that if everyone embraced and understood one another’s culture it could bring out the best in everyone and light up the creativity and understand why each culture and heritage is different amongst one another and why people we’re raised differently and makes up who they are based on their culture and what their heritage means to them at the end of the day,” Deichert said. Despite just recently becoming a League of Latinos kember, Deichert is going in with high hopes, wanting “people to understand, and I want to embrace my culture the best I can while helping people understand it as well.” His favorite event was the Taco Truck visit, because “it brought this community together to celebrate our culture by having fun with friends and making new friends

News, Questions, Comments, Concerns:

while enjoying food from our heritage and food that makes up our culture.” By celebrating hispanic cultures on campus, Deichert hopes, “it gives everyone a better understanding and helps those cultures stand out and show what their culture means to them. It brings the community as a whole together to celebrate and try new foods from cultures they probably haven’t been exposed to growing up.It gives insight on what food, games, clothing, and songs make up their heritage. Cultures bring people together to show the creativity and what makes up on another”. Food and family are two things Deichert loves about his culture. Growing up one of his favorite memories was winter time when his family gathered at his grandmother’s house. ”When you walk in, smelling tamales being set on the table while mole is sitting hot on the stove while you can smell the chocolate just drenched onto the chicken” Deuchert said of his fond memories. When it comes to bringing family together,he feels food is the best way, “ [it] brings family together and I mean the WHOLE family because family means a lot to one another.” Senior Diana Hernandez has been a member of LOL for the majority of her college career. Since then she has been an active member. This semester she has

helped with the Kahoot Game that was on Sept. 25 and will help with the Lotería, Mexican Bingo,that takes place on Oct. 12. “I’m still a firm believer that the U.S. is a big boiling pot of different cultures and in this political climate I believe we have forgotten that,” she said regarding how tolerance can impact the U.S. for the better, “We never had a set language, a set religion, or a set race. If we can remember that and be more open about other cultures we could learn a lot about each other and maybe get a little close to harmony.” Hernandez does not have just one favorite thing about her culture, “after all it is my identity, it is the way I was raised and a huge factor of why I think and do things that I do,” she said. The things that stick out about her upbringing is, “how normal it is to have big families” which she credits to making her a family-oriented person. “I love how even though I was born in the U.S. my beautiful traditions are still well engraved in me,” Hernandez says. “I love the traditions and how well aware we are about our roots.” Another thing Hernandez thanks her culture for ingraining in her is a love for people. “We’re considered a polychronic culture where we have more of a fluid approach when scheduling time.” Hernandez said. “ We tend to be less focused

on the precise accounting of each and every moment, and much more steeped in tradition and relationships rather than tasks.” Hernandez wants the student body to gain one simple thing this month, “to learn how beautiful other cultures are. You do not have to know the language but you can learn a lot by just looking.”

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Wednesday Sept. 30, 2020

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NEWS

Photo by Kelly Stiles

Colorful flags adorn the Garrison hallway in front of the KSWH radio station in celberation of Hispanic Heritage Month.

Accomodations for blood donations By Kelly Stiles Editor in Chief The sound of whirring machines filled the air of the Arkansas Blood Institute blood donation truck as phlebotomists briskly and skillfully maneuvered in the tight space. The truck made use of the limited space with a narrow cushioned bench for those waiting, three small “rooms” dedicated to screening donors before drawing their blood, and four laid-back chairs where donation participants relax while their blood is extracted. The truck remained nestled in front of the Womack Building between Garrison and Mooney over the course of Sept. 17 and 18. “Because of COVID people are not donating as often,” donor recruitment director Vince Maniace said. While no hospital resident is in danger yet, there is a shortage of all blood types which could lead to endangered lives. Under the onslaught of COVID-19, the public is told to avoid gathering in close proximity to others, and donating blood requires being close to a phlebotomist for a brief amount of time so they can administer a blood withdrawal. The distance to the phlebotomist was made even closer due to the lack of space in the truck,

Photo by Kelly Stiles

Nursing major Charlie Handly awaits her first blood donation.

though masks were worn by everyone involved and all seats were disinfected after use. “I was hesitant to volunteer but I know there are safe measures in place,” 18-year-old Brittany Newsom said. Wanting to become a phlebotomist one day, following in the footsteps of her grandmother, mother, and sister who work in the medical field, Newsom was excited to donate blood for the first time. Newsom is from Pearcy, Ark. and while visiting her friend in Arkadelphia she heard about the blood drive and wanted to participate. “Your first time giving blood is like your first time

most needed as it can be universally donated to every other blood type and is used on ambulances and with newborn babies. “Blood is continuously needed because it has an expiration date,” Maniace said. One must weigh at least 110 lbs. and be 18 years of age to donate without parental consent. If donating blood is costly to one’s health, such is the case with those with severe anemia which is an iron deficiency, then it is not recommended that they give blood. Those who have or have been exposed to contagious illness cannot give blood either, as diseased blood could contaminate the recipient. During this drive, over 80 students and faculty donated blood which exceeded the Arkansas Blood Institute’s goal of 70 participants, or 35 per day. A single donation can be donated to up to three people. The blood collected during this drive will potentially impact the lives of 206 Arkansans.

driving a car,” Maniace said. “It is nerve-racking but exciting.” As the daughter of a nurse, freshman nursing student Charlie Handly believes donating blood is important because her mom has witnessed how blood donations help people every day. In addition, Handly’s grandmother received blood donations as part of cancer treatment. “Give blood,” Handly said. “It doesn’t hurt very much and it helps people.” While a healthy person can donate blood every 56 days, donated red Photo by Kelly Stiles blood cells have a shelf Donor recruitment director Vince life of only 42 days. The Maniace enthusiastically invites blood type O negative is students to donate blood.

“I am really impressed with the quality of the students,” Maniace said. “Those that were too scared to donate or could not for other reasons were more than willing to assist by sharing with friends. That is something I have never seen before.” Every person who donates blood recieves a free t-shirt. If one forgoes the t-shirt, the Arkansas Blood Institute donates five dollars to the Global Blood Fund which assists the medical needs of those in developing countries. “Even on a bad day, I know I am making a difference,” Maniace said. When a hospital patient receives blood, the recipient has a choice of going to thankthedonor. org where they can send a message to the blood donor thanking them for their sacrifice. A green heart located on every blood bag reminds them of this option. The next Henderson blood drive will take place on Feb. 3 and 4 of 2021. Copy Editor Kalijah Smith 870-904-6288

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To experience past Blood Drive stories, visit hsuoracle.com.

KS227313@reddies.hsu.edu Presentation Editor Jessica Cullins

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NEWS

Wednesday Sept. 30, 2020

HSU Plant Supervisor Micheal Brooks Dies at 58 specialist III Martha Bryant in Brooks’s online obituary guestbook. Brooks’ impact could be felt all over campus. Everyone from faculty and staff to the students and fellow maintenance workers. “Mike was a delight to be around,” stated Pam Ligon, associate dean of academic services. “He was always smiling and willing to lend a helping hand.”

Lance Brownfield Opinion Editor Michael Brooks maintained more than the facilities at Henderson: He maintained relationships. “I only saw him when something wasn’t working right but I always enjoyed that it was Mike that would be by to work on the problem,” professor of mathematics, Dr. Fred Worth stated. “He would always get it done right and would always make his visit a pleasant one with friendly conversation.” Brooks was known for being easy going and always smiling and joking. He was also a lifelong fan of the University of Alabama football team. A longtime plant maintenance supervisor at Henderson, Brooks died of a heart attack on Saturday, Sept. 12. He is preceded in death by his wife Stacey, who died just five weeks before him.

Brooks is missed by many here at Henderson. He is remembered fondly by those who were fortunate enough to work around

him. “We always had good talks when we saw each other,” stated Henderson administrative

His visitation and service was held in person and on Facebook live on Wednesday, Sept. 16 at Cross Roads Missionary Baptist Church in Benton. He was then laid to rest at Ten Mile Cemetery in Benton. Much like Henderson, Brooks had a strong spirit. He is remembered fondly by so many people on and off campus.

Photo Submitted

Michael Brooks sports an eccentric homemade head garment expressing his passion for the Crimson Tide.

HSU merges with ASU Andrew Cobb Contributing Reporter Last school year, a monumental change was exhibited by the staff of Henderson alongside the members of the Board of Trustees. The troubling effect of money loss has sequeled severe debt over the last few years as a result of the mismanagement of funds, however, the blame of such knowledge is yet to be determined. After much deliberation, Henderson State University has collaborated with Arkansas State whose university resides in Jonesboro, Arkansas. This resolution was pronounced on Oct. 24. Many believe

the settlement will be a solution that will benefit the school’s financial aid system in many ways. Though the purpose of the consolidation is to enhance the university’s financial affairs, there are some who are worried about the effect it will have on the uniqueness of the institution as well as the alterations in campus life and academics, but even so the ideal should not be demolished. “Personally, I don’t think the merger with ASU has had a huge impact on the students as far as everyday campus life,” junior psychology major Dylan Daniels said. He then mentioned the significance of Henderson’s financial aid system and

how it forms directional guidance for students. “The big changes were the things behind the scenes such as our financial system,” Daniels said. The expected date of the official unification is announced to transpire on Jan. 1, 2021, allowing Arkansas State time to review Henderson’s operations. Apart from those who think otherwise, many of the professors and students trust the fusion will help the school prosper and to grow in upcoming years along with the increase of education quality from its already superb position. Numerous questions go in doubt, yet a multitude of students look to the school’s future with excitement.

Photo Submitted

Psychology major Dylan Daniels expresses the lack of change he has expereinced as HSU merges with ASU.

Wednesday Sept. 30, 2020

THE DELPH

THE ORACLE

HSU students “Connect” with local business up, Heck continuously found himself taking objects apart to figure out how they worked. As his brother influenced him to play video games, the young man desired to build his own computer to game on. Upon building his first computer, Heck loved it and has not turned back since. “It was unlike any interview I have had,” Heck said. “[The staff] felt like a family.”

Kelly Stiles Editor in Chief The song “Galveston” by Glen Campbell and the smell of freshly-popped popcorn filled the warm air as drivers-by smiled and waved. In celebration of their 80th anniversary, South Central Electric Cooperative and their 3-year-old partner fiber internet company South Central Connect hosted a COVID-19-safe drive-thru celebration on Sept. 15. “We want to bring quality-of-life to our community,” network engineering manager Robert Green said.

Photo by Kelly Stiles

Network engineering manager Robert Green takes pride in the what South Central Connect provides for his community.

Customers drove around the companies’ headquarters as employees greeted and passed out logoed hats and cups as well as popcorn, snow cones, and cotton candy. Among these employees were two Henderson State University junior computer science majors participating in this unique part of their internship.

Photo by Kelly Stiles

Broadband manager Marty Allen appreciates the opportunity to connect with his Alma Mater.

Photo by Kelly Stiles

Local business South Central Electric Cooperative celebrates its 80th anniversary.

“I’m a Henderson alumni,” South Central Connect broadband manager Marty Allen said. “I want to give students real world experience.” Allen once worked at Entergy’s Arkansas Nuclear One double unit power plant in Russellville, Ark. where computer science students from Arkansas Tech University were given internships. The internship provided the power plant workers with needed assistance, and each intern found a successful job afterwards. Some interns were even offered jobs at Arkansas Nuclear One. Striving to create a similar experience for SCC, Allen contacted Henderson State University and Ouachita Baptist University. Since HSU responded first, Allen allowed director of computer science at HSU Jimmie Harper to provide SCC with applicants. “Working with students is my favorite part of my job,” Harper said. Director of computer science Jimmie Harper enjoys an experience to help students while connecting with an old friend. (Jimmie Harper) As a mentor who facilitates computer science internships, professor Harper informed interested students of the opportunity. Five of these students Photo by Kellyapplied to fill the two

available positions. Having taught at Henderson for 33 years Harper enjoys facilitating internships as he is able to stay in contact with people working in the computer science industry and keep up-to-date on what he should be teaching his students. The professor was elated to hear from Allen who he had attended Henderson with. “I love Henderson’s computer science program,” SCC intern Madison Rushing said. “Every teacher knows you by name.”

Photo by Madison Rushing

Madsion Rushing obtains a local internship in her field of study.

From childhood, Rushing has been influenced by someone she admires. Her parents’ friend who she lovingly refers to as “Uncle Steve” steered her toward computer science by the way he would excitedly discuss his career in cyber security. “The team has made me feel very welcome,” SCC intern Phillip Heck said. G r o w i n g

Photo by Phillip Heck

Phillip Heck looks forward to learning from experience.

During interviews, several members of the South Central Connect team were involved so the applicant could feel a sense of the familyoriented mindset that the small company strives for. The SCC team analyzed each student’s technical capabilities, professionalism, and people skills. It is more important to Green to have employees who work well with other team members and customers than who have someone with technical skills. One can be taught how to complete technical tasks, but soft skills are hard to instill in others. “This is the first time I wanted to hire 100% of the applicants,” Green said. Having two available positions and five perfect fits did not make the internship hiring process easy. However, Allen and Green felt good knowing that all applicants obtained experience going through a job interview in their field of study. They hope to possibly hire the other applicants for

a future internship as this partnership between SCC and HSU continues. “I expect the program to grow,” Allen said. This paid internship will allow Heck and Rushing to have handson experience regarding varying facets of South Central Connect while gaining college hours. They will complete tasks involving software development, coding, hardware provisioning, troubleshooting, inventory, work management, and interfacing with customers and other organizations. “They will learn basically every aspect you can think of,” Green said. While students are gaining valuable exposure, this internship allows South Central Connect to receive valuable assistance. These interns will complete tasks that relieve stress from other workers, creating a better work environment. Also, SCC can assess what is being taught now in colleges to prepare proper training for new employees. “We are a small company with two universities nearby,” Allen said. “We can both benefit.” As a young startup company, Allen and Green point out that there is potential to hire interns as full-time employees in the future. Someone who already knows how the company runs could be a beneficial asset. “They have something to put on their resume other than stuff they learned out of a book,” Allen said. Through the course of the internship, Rushing and Heck will complete summaries of their time at SCC. In addition, SCC will evaluate the students’ performances on the job, and in return, the students will evaluate the work the company provided.

THE ORACLE Lance Brownfield Opinion Editor As a result of the early startup due to being ascribed to missing the break of Labor Day, this school year is definitely perplexed and many students are unaware of just how neurotic it is. Normally every year, Henderson is known to take off to the fall break and attend classes during the week of Thanksgiving. However, in an attempt to condense the school year, Henderson decided that classes were to be held on Labor Day and during the time the fall break usually takes place. Classes will be held in person until the week of Thanksgiving just as long as an outbreak of COVID-19 does not interfere. There will be a week long recess for the holiday and afterwards, all classes will finish up

FEATURES

Wednesday Sept. 30, 2020

Give me a break

online. Many students have not been informed of the change to the academic calendar, including senior social work major Kaylen Edwardsn as stated when asked. The decision was announced on the 12th of June around the time when acting President, Elaine Kneebone, led a task force that devised the plan in order to mitigate the risk of spreading COVID-19 this semester. In a president’s update, Kneebone stated that the changes are meant to “allow us to maximize as much classroom time as possible in the early months of the semester.” To some students, it still seems like a long time to go without a break. “I’m gonna need a break,” freshman engineering major Austen Smith commented. Not all students are upset about the

exclusion of the fall letup, however, Preston Keahi, an undeclared freshman who plays football, has a positive outlook on the change. “It gives me an opportunity to work on football longer,” Keahi said. This sentiment was echoed by physics instructor James Duke, who stated, “I usually would work through the fall break anyways.” Duke also believed the change to the academic calendar will contribute to students since there will be a minor loss of knowledge and study habits over the break. He mentioned that students could “burn-out” quicker and lose endurance as a possible drawback to the change. For those who are currently unbeknown of the situation, The Oracle will Photo by Lance Brownfield provide updates as news Physics professor James Duke expresses positivity in light of no fall occurs. In the meantime, break. only time will tell how the the lack of breaks will affect the students and faculty. semester will go and how

UNO: A stormy COVID-19 evening Nia Nelson Contributing Reporter It was another day like any other aside from the storm being played outside. The day commenced as a bore, especially with the canceling of classes due to the red flagging outbreak of an approaching storm, which was more talk than actual doings. Minor droplets fell from the sky onto the pavement, hitting all in its touch. The busied walkways were dull due to everyone being trapped inside their appointed residences. However, inside a friendly game of uno was in play and was starting to get a little intense. Two figures could easily be seen sitting cross legged on the wood flooring in front of the other with a wild deck of cards of all colors positioned in the middle of them. “UNO!” the girl yelled out with a smug look on her face, placing down the card with more force than needed. “Ha, you thought,” the boy sneered as he proudly laid down a drawtwo card. “It’s okay— payback’s a -” The boy cut her off,

slamming down two cards as he announced, “UNO and UNO OUT!” The girl opened her mouth to make a sarcastic comment when her phone rang. With narrowed eyes, the girl checked the caller id before placing the screen up to her ear as she answered, “Hello?” There was silence for a moment. “Excuse me, WHAT? So, now what do I have to do? I only have 15 minutes to get everything? When am I allowed back? Okay, thank you.” “Who was that?” The boy asked after she had ended the call. “That was the student health services of my school,”she slowly explains, still puzzled by the news. “My roommate tested positive for COVID-19.” “Wait, what?” The shock of worry stained his face. “Yes, she tested positive, and now I am being kicked out of the dorms until my quarantine is up—even if I am negative,” she said with a frown then added, “We’re all going to have to get tested since we’ve been so close.” His face fell. “You’re joking, right?”

Copy Editor Kalijah Smith 870-904-6288 KS227313@reddies.hsu.edu

“I wish I was,”she softly admits, staring down at her phone’s screen. “She didn’t even tell me she had to get tested. She’s been gone for a while and I just assumed she was with her boyfriend.” “Now I have to tell my roommates since we’ve been at my apartment the most,”he groaned, resting his head on the footboard. “This is crazy.” “I know, and I’m so sorry. If I had known she was going to get tested I wouldn’t have even come over here.” “It’s okay,” the guy assured her. “I knew you had no idea. I just feel terrible that they could’ve possibly been exposed.” “I tested negative on Friday because the track team had to get tested, so maybe we will be safe since I just did it,”she informed hopefully. “I don’t know. With the way we know basically nothing about this virus except that it is highly contagious isn’t giving me much hope,”he then frowned, “We have been around each other closer than six feet and no masks.” The stress in the girl’s face was evident. “I am so sorry,”she repeated. “We need to make sure we tell everyone we have been

Photo by Chloe McClenahan

A game of UNO turns into solitude and worry.

around here lately just to be safe.” Suddenly, two more figures, who had been in the back area, stepped into view, noticing the tension that filled the room. “What happened?” one of the girls asked. “Yeah, who died?” said the other as she stared over at the two stiffed faces. “Long story short, we all need to be tested for COVID-19 because of our friend’s roommate,” the boy was the first to speak up.

Editorial Staff

Editor in Chief Kelly Stiles 501-762-6135 kc219195@reddies.hsu.edu

Features Editor Leigha Lynch 501-351-5673 ll218224@reddies.hsu.edu

Presentation Editor Bailey Dougan 870-557-0347 bd211061@reddies.hsu.edu

Opinion Editor Lance Brownfield 501-458-1518 brownfieldlance@gmail.com

Managing Editor Kabryn Grayson 501-940-4490 kg212035@reddies.hsu.edu

Photo Chief Misty Morris 903-949-5923 mm221862@reddies.hsu.edu

Presentation Editor Jessica Cullins 501-408-9336 jc223402@reddies.hsu.edu

Copy Editor Kalijah Smith 870-904-6288 ks227313@reddies.hsu.edu

“No way! I cannot get this virus again!” the second girl loudly refused. “I can’t get it in general,” the other explained, “I will be out of work for too long!” The boy tried to be the voice of reason. “Okay, everyone calm down. We may all be fine. Let’s just get tested and go from there.”

Sports Editor Hannah Hodge 281-236-0201 HH217407@reddies.hsu.edu Assistant Sports Editor Donovan Lee 870-502-9684 DL209731@reddies.hsu.edu Campus Editor Teuana Smith 501-563-9257 ts212034@reddies.hsu.edu

Wednesday Sept. 30, 2020

The notorious RBG

Kabryn Grayson Staff Reporter When it comes to Ruth Bader Ginsburg or as a law student, dubbed her “the notorious R.B.G” the question is not what has she done but rather what has she not done. She has so many credentials it is hard to summarize them without leaving noteworthy ones out. One of the most commonly known facts about her is that she was the second woman to serve in the Supreme Court. However, not many know she was the first Sumpreme Court justice to officiate a same-sex mariage ceremony on Aug. 31, 2013. You can read about her credentials online, but other things such as her legacy and impact on current students are better told by the students themselves. Kayla Ventress, a senior Biology major admits that like most college students, “she doesn’t think she knows as much as she should” when it comes to RBG. However, due to her passing Ventress, she has become more educated. “She made a big impact on women’s rights and gender equality which I admire. As a woman, I

THE ORACLE

FEATURES

“If we were educated correctly or offered politics science courses in high school instead of offering just history courses, more females might realize their interest in the field.” Ventress says, “most women go into a field looking to help people and they don’t realize that going into Law or Politics can also help people.” Although Ventress acknowledges RBG’s accomplishments, she is hesitant to call her a role model. “I think RBG is a great role model for young women. She has gone to great measures to show how much she has

overcome in her life to be where she was at,” Ventress said. “Personally, I can’t call someone a role model that I never knew of until a week ago but I do believe that woman should acquire a role model within their own beliefs and knowledge.” Ventress believes someone needs to continue to champion for women’s rights, and hopes another woman fills RBG’s position. “I would love to see a woman fill that position because there is now one less vote on the SC to advocate for women’s rights and other social injustices,” Ventress said.

Photo by Government

After long time Supreme Court justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg passes away, students refelct on her impact.

know the importance of having someone of higher authority advocate for women’s rights,” Ventress said. Ventress continues discussing what she has learned about RBG saying, “I have learned more about her and her position on the SC since she passed away. She also did a lot of work advocating and ruling in favor of LGBTQ rights and many other cases involving social injustices.” According to a

survey conducted June 4-10, among those who rely on social media as the most common way they get political news is social media, only 8% are for political news and are least likely to follow the 2020 presidential candidates. “I think a lot of students, whether male or female, don’t know much about politics coming into college. That is why there is a low rate voter turnout for college aged civilians,” Ventress said.

Adopting the metric system

Haven Hughes Contributing Reporter

The United States of America is among one of the only industrialized countries in the world that has yet to fully adopt the metric system. Alongside the states, only two other countries do not completely follow this system. “I think it would be beneficial for our nation to adopt the metric system,” associate dean of Ellis College and professor of mathematics Debra Coventry said. Despite there being some aspects that Americans use daily such as liters and grams, the transition has yet to come full circle where all citizens use it as their main form

of measuring distance, volume, and mass. “It would allow for easier communication between countries,” Coventry said. “Individuals would feel more comfortable traveling between countries that use the same system.” Most of the world has open communication regarding measurements, distance, mass, etc. as different cultures follow the same guidelines. The States seem to be adamant about using the imperial system, however. “If it’s not broken, why try to fix it?” senior kinesiology major at Ouachita Baptist University Benjamin Miller said. Jonathan Hogeback, a writer for Britannica, explained that a lot of the

world enforces a teaching strategy where people are taught both systems, such as rulers showing inches and centimeters, but as a whole that means the imperial system will not be wiped out completely. “I honestly never think about the fact that other places use something completely different,” Miller said. “I’m just used to using things like inches and gallons and miles.” Miller also feels as though it would bring a halt to the United States. He explains that the country has been living this way since it was founded and there is no reason to change because it would only add confusion and anger as he predicts Americans will not want to take the time

Photo by Haven Hughes

The United States remains one of the three countries that does not use the metric system.

to learn it. He feels himself that he would not want to learn it as he has already been living with the same system his whole life. “I think it would be interesting to see what happens if we decided to go to the metric system,”

Arkadelphia construction worker Jeremy Davis said. “While change can be difficult, I feel that the advantages outweigh the disadvantages”.

THE ORACLE Should HSU follow UA? The University of Arkansas has decided that no gathering of 10 or more people is allowed on or off campus this semester. Should Henderson consider adopting similar restrictions? All campus events have been cancelled this semester at UA and students are having to follow the school’s guidelines even while off campus. If students are caught on Dickson Street, Fayetteville’s main strip for nightlife, without a mask they will be considered to be in violation of the student code of conduct. “So, I think every institution handles these things differently,” Brad Patterson, vice president of student affairs said. “I understand why they did that. I don’t think that we would.” Here at the Oracle, we believe Henderson should take a page from the University of Arkansas’s book, but it should be adjusted to fit Henderson. There is no one-size-fitsall solution to Covid-19, but Henderson should see how other colleges around the state are handling the spread and take notes. There are many differences in Henderson and the University of Arkansas, an obvious one being the size of the student body. Henderson has a little over one-tenth the student enrollment that UA has in a typical school year. Even though we have significantly fewer students, the danger is still just as present. It does not take much for an area to become a hotspot overnight. Some here at Henderson take a more laissez-faire stance on the issue. Gatherings of more than 10 can be safe if the proper precautions are taken to ensure the safety of everyone present. “As long as they’re being safe about it, wearing masks and social distancing,” junior music education major, Terry Gist said. “But once it starts becoming unsafe is when it becomes a problem.” With a decrease in enrollment, Henderson reportedly stands to lose $2.3 million this semester and it may be unrealistic that the university will use its resources on breaking up parties and get-togethers. “I think that decisions like this should be left to public health/ epidemiology experts, driven by science, and implemented by elected officials at the highest levels of state and federal government,” James Engman, professor of biology stated. There is a fine line between letting students do what they want and being overbearing. Letting kids party and gather in large groups and hoping that nothing happens just is not a good policy.

OPINIONS

Wednesday Sept. 30, 2020

Wearing a mask with pride THE DEEP END

Lance Brownfield Opinion Editor I am one of the few people to achieve the status of two time college dropout before the age of 25. I have tried several times to pursue my education and let things get in the way. I am reminded of the things that stopped me more and more each day, but like battle scars, my past attempts show how much I can overcome. One thing that got in my way during a previous attempt at college was my own mental health. During the spring semester of 2018, I decided to try living in a dorm. I had just made the dean’s list the semester prior and felt that I would do really well if I lived closer. Over the course of that

semester, I let my mental health drag me into a hole that led me to dropping out once again. I have always felt very insecure about the way I look and it hit me especially hard during this time in my life. I would often make excuses not to go out, or I would try to only go out when nobody else would be out to avoid being seen by people. I even started skipping classes on days that I felt most hideous. The air was still cold at the beginning of the semester, allowing me to wear a bandana over my face whenever I did not want to be seen but felt Photo by Kelly Stiles brave enough to venture out. I was hoping most Lance Brownfield displays his COVID mask, a beloved bandana. people thought that the bandana was to hide my face mask, I feel as though how I will not stop trying face from the elements and things have flipped. Now until I obtain my degree. that I have overcome my not from them. The raggedy, military green hang ups and made great Copy Editor bandana made sense to progress with my mental Kalijah Smith 870-904-6288 wear when it was cold but health, I no longer need the old, green bandana. as the temperature began to rise in Arkadelphia it was I still have to wear it to no longer practical. Still, I comply with the COVID-19 began to wear it everyday guidelines, but it does not If you have depressive or and would wear it during feel like such a burden. suicidal thoughts, contact class as my mental health In some ways, wearing the National Suicide the old mask here at deteriorated. Prevention Lifeline at Returning to Henderson Henderson, like I did 800-273-8255 this semester, it’s hard before, feels like wearing not to think back on those a badge of honour. It’s a KS227313@reddies.hsu.edu days. As everyone wears a symbol to me. A symbol of Presentation Editor

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Jaylon McEwen Sports Reporter It’s no secret that the past few months the sports world has been flipped from upside down to right side up again. After the massive wave of COVID-19 professional sports have adapted to the historical type of gameplay that we see today. Amongst that new look, we have seen a completely different NBA league through the emergence of “The Bubble.” However, with all this change one thing has managed to remain a constant factor, Lebron James making headlines. If you have not heard yet

Donovan Lee Assistant Sports Editor It’s springtime, and sports are at its peak. The NBA is going into its final stretch of the regular season. College football and the NFL season had just come to an end a few weeks back. One of the greatest things to ever grace the sports world was upon us: March Madness. Anyone who had their head in a phone had heard of this “thing” before, but probably disregarded it (as

Jaylon McEwen Sports Reporter As a collegiate athlete, you go into your respected sport with the full idea that you only have a solid five years of eligibility. This is the most common route for studentathletes who graduate and move on from their college careers and into the world. However, there are a few situations and technicalities that could grant you a few more years of doing what you love. HSU graduate student Taylor Langston is no stranger to the possibility of longevity within a collegiate sport.

Jaylon McEwen Sports Reporter The Reddie Football team is facing probably its biggest opponent of all time this season in the emergence of COVID-19. The coronavirus has successfully shut down not only Henderson but many other collegiate programs as well. The virus has shown no promise of going away anytime soon, however, one must not worry about their future alone but the future of sports entirely. How the fans feel about the canceling of the

SPORTS

Wednesday Sept. 30, 2020

Long live the king James is heading to his 10th NBA finals making him the 4th player to do so in the history of the league. Many thought the Los Angeles Lakers would inevitably fall to the Los Angeles Clippers who had bested them a few times during the regular season. However, the Clippers were swept by the Denver Nuggets in the second round. There were also talks of the Lakers being dethroned by the Rockets, yet they also fell short of taking the crown, getting eliminated in five games. Lebron is set to compete for his 4th ring against his former team the Miami Heat, a reality that almost seems poetic.

The first team that James ever won a championship with is now the team he must face in the latter half of his career. Many believe that the next four games for Lebron will be another

easy victory. Although, with the grit and passion the Heat possess this will most likely not be another walk in the park. It’s going to be an amazing show as everyone tunes in to see

Lebron lead the Lakers and take on his former coach and team in his 17th year in the league.

some are still doing to this day). Then all of a sudden, the world stopped, for the second time this year might I add. I can only imagine what those who were mid-game thought when officials came out onto the fields of play and told them the game was being cut short. The common name was being thrown around jokingly, but then officials began addressing it more professionally by its scientific name, COVID-19.

From January to the presentday, we have witnessed the unimaginable. The Black Mamba has become a memory, March was definitely Madness but not the kind we wanted. People living in a “Bubble” became a real thing as if the movie wasn’t bad enough. However, more importantly to me, COVID-19 stopped basketball. Thanks to the powers that be in the NBA offices and the NBPA, the game has made its return

but with a twist. The NBA Bubble has changed the way we experience sports. Fans are virtually present, and the league has created a lifestyle that we had only seen in video games and science fiction television and film. The plus side of this experience has been the increased level of competition, but the officiating hasn’t been up to par. Nevertheless, they are giving us hope in discouraging times in our society.

COVID-19 May have gotten to the rim, but everyone knows defense wins championships.

This coming up year will be his seventh season playing college baseball and that has left a few students on campus a bit puzzled. However, Langston’s path can be explained easily when diving into his career history. Langston graduated from Parkers Chapel High School and went directly to SAU where he stayed one year as a redshirt which allowed him to keep eligibility. He then went on to transfer to Barton County Community college for two years in which he played. After his two years at Barton, he then transferred to HSU where he played for a total of one year. Going into his

5th year, Langston then suffered a Tommy John injury that granted him a medical redshirt thus giving yet another year of eligibility. A Tommy John injury is ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction, this is located in the elbow and the procedure is replaced with either a tendon from elsewhere in the patient’s body. While taking that year off to heal from his injury, tragedy struck with the emergence of COVID-19. So finally, after an injury and a few redshirt years, Taylor and the sevenyear legend of Langston lives on for another season.

season is the real question, the ones that show their undying support at every game. Surely this must be affecting them in some form, considering that the program has never really dealt with a situation of this magnitude. Two of the fans had a lot to say when asked about how they feel towards the canceling of the current season. “It’s weird now because it feels like the school’s heart skipped a beat. It feels like we’re all taking a long drive and there is no music playing, just a long boring ride to the end of the semester,”

said senior sociology major Mar’Quesia Gillis. Kaliyah Knobles, a senior elementary education major, stated, “I feel that canceling the Reddies season was a hard but necessary decision. I do however understand why it was made, it would have been nearly impossible to control the crowd into remaining a safe and responsible 6 ft distance away from each other.” Although football may not be an option this semester it does not mean showing love for the Reddies is not possible. Do not be afraid to show

Photo by NBA

Lebron James enters his 17th year in the league and 4th ring aganst his former team.

COVID put a lid on the rim

The Langston legend

Photo by NBA

COVID changes the NBA like never before.

Photo by HSU Athletics

A storied past makes graduate student Taylor Langston a legend to many.

Where’s the Reddie spirit?

Photo by HSU Athletics

The lack of Reddie football leaves a whole in student life.

your spirit around campus just like every other “Die and uplift the athletes that Hard” fan. represent the team because they surely miss the field