The Vista Sept. 15, 2011

Give Peace a Chance

Soccer

The Peace Corps wants students to consider an alternative post college career path.

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UCO Women’s Soccer hands rival SNU thier first loss of the season Page 8

SEP. 15, 2011 uco360.com twitter.com/uco360

THE VISTA

UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL OKLAHOMA’S student voice since 1903.

Drug Abuse

BATTLING ADDICITIONS WITH TOUGH TESTING

MARCHING BAND PREPARES AT PLUNKETT

By Bryan Trude / Staff Writer A two-year technical college in Missouri is treading new waters in the balance between the war on drugs and rights to privacy, instituting the nation’s first mandatory drug testing policy for their entire student body.

Linn State Technical College in Linn, Mo., instituted the policy after receiving feedback from local business leaders.

“We surveyed our 333-member advisory council, made up of business leaders who employ our graduates, “ Dr. Richard Pemberton, associate dean of student affairs at Linn State, said. “Of those who responded, 80 percent of them said we should investigate a broader drug testing policy.”

The Linn State program only affects new students or students who have spent more than one semester un-enrolled in classes.

The college, which trains students for technical programs such as operating heavy equipment, says the results factor into the students’ work readiness grade, a grade included on their transcripts along with attendance data.

However, they are not directly posted to the transcript or students’ permanent record.

“We pride ourself on graduating students, we have a 90% graduation rate,” Pemberton said. “Most of our students are now working in drug-free environments, and we feel that our new program will provide a valuable educational tool for students who face preemployment drug screenings.”

The program, similar to those used by employers, checks a student’s urine for 11 illegal substances including cocaine, amphetamines, barbituates and marijuana. Students who test positive for an illegal substance have 45 days to complete an online activity and rescreen before being expelled.

Students who refuse to test are also expelled. If a student rescreens and shows nega-

Drum Major Zach Tanner directs the UCO Stampede of Sound, Wedndesday, Sept.

14, 2011. The band is preparing their Latin-themed halftime show, which they will perform for the first time at homecoming, Oct. 1, when UCO will play East Central University for their first home game. Photo by Garett Fisbeck, The Vista

tive, they remain on probation for the rest of the semester and are subject to random rescreening.

Pemberton said Linn State students, having recently completed the first screenings under the program, had responded “positively” to the policy. “[Drug use] is not a college’s business,” Melody Roegels, an English/Creative Studies major, said. “People can do all their drugs, pay their money to the school, come in to class and get good grades.”

Derek McEwen, a management information systems major, agreed.

“Business should be responsible for that stuff, not publically-funded schools,” he said.

The policy, however, does not allow for screenings except for specific circumstances, such as the drug screening policy for the UCO

Debate Team, or the performance-enhancing drugs screenings for the Athletics department.

Policy regarding illegal drugs for UCO students is covered under the student code of conduct.

“Infractions can vary a great degree, from someone just having paraphernalia or alcohol on campus, to being intoxicated or found guilty of distributing to other students,” Dr. Tamara Reeves, director of UCO alcohol and drug abuse prevention office, said. “Infractions could also occur if a student sells prescription medication to another student.”

For students who are fighting with drug addiction, there are multiple programs offered by the Office of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention (ADAP) office, a service of the Division of Student Affairs, including counseling programs and online assessments.

“Our ultimate goal is different than those of law enforcement authorities outside our cam-

pus,” Reeves said. “We want to help our students and ensure that after the infraction, they can remain at UCO an positively contribute to the goals of the campus.”

Students found to be violating the code of conduct in regards to illegal drugs and alcohol may be subject to disciplinary measures according to Reeves.

“Depending on the type of infraction, students could receive something as simple as community service, or be required to complete an online intervention,” she said. “They could also be required to obtain a comprehensive substance abuse assessment or complete other sanctions. On the extreme end, a student might be placed on probation or expelled.”

For more information on intervention and support programs, visit the ADAP office in room 412 of the Nigh University Center.

Human Environmental Sciences

CENTRAL STATION OPEN FOR BUSINESS

WEATHER

“Mainly, everything is made the day of. It’s usually started at seven or eight, and that’s what brings people in. You can smell the food going to class,” Tricia Dye, a junior who was working the counter, said.

“We have a chicken salad sandwich. It has grapes, celery, green onions and mayonnaise on some honey wheat bread. For salads we have spinach strawberry salad with raspberry vinaigrette , with mushrooms and bacon bits as well. I made the chicken salad last night and help finish everything this morning,” Rochelle Plummer, a graduate student and one of the production employees in the back, said.

Dye explained the roles of students in Central Station.

“Today I was business manager, which basically means I was in charge of the cash register, and that’s the only thing I do. For sanitary reasons, I can’t touch any of the food or make any of the drinks,” [Students working the Mickie Vanhoy and Tricia Dye purchase sandwiches from Central Station. Photo by counter] are called hops, but they just stand Sacha Swift, The Vista behind the bar and take your orders and make doing more remodeling. It’s still the same size, drinks. And then there’s the production emBy Chris Howell / Staff Writer but we have new countertops. We have new ployees. They’re in the back, in the kitchen, Central Station, located in the food labora- students every year. It’s good, healthy food,” preparing the food,” Dye said.

“Then there’s the production manager. It’s a tory of Human Enviromental Sciences build- Loafman said, before returning to observing big deal. That’s your day. You have to come up ing, has opened for the semester. the operation of the station. with the menu, you have to assign the parts, The venue is open Tuesdays and Thursdays Two students were seated not far from the and all the stuff like that,” Dye finished. from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and has been updated counter, busy in conversation over two sandDietetics is the study of nutrition as it rein menu and look. wiches, while another two were getting ready lates to health.

The students each explained “Central Station is run by the dietetics de- to present their empty plates to the staff and their decision to major in dietitics. partment. We have everything from our own move on with their day. The seated students “I was a teacher, and I was extremely overturkey central sandwiches to the signatures are both nontraditional students majoring weight, as a matter of fact. And I was in a class dishes students prepare on their day,” Misty in dietetics and going back for their second with some kids that were pretty overweight Loafman, general manager of Central Station, bachelor’s degree. too.

We did a challenge, to lose weight, and said. “The students all work at a different po“I love the countertops and the new look of sition each day. It’s a great learning experi- it. It’s not as dated,” Laura Scheihing, one of TODAY H 60° L 53° TOMORROW ence. The food is really good, and there’s no the seated students, said. tax on it. We also have lattes, coffee, two dif“The new bar looks really inviting. I like it. ferent kinds of desserts, and more.”

It’s a really updated look, more inviting, more While the layout remained generally the college-y,” her companion, Katy Soper, added. same from the semester, a small bar adds The food and drink enticed the patrons. more seating space. The new gray counter The sweet aroma of pastries and smoothies tops replaced the old wooden counter tops. mixed with the more tart smell of coffee and “We remodeled Central Station, and still salad dressings.

More weather at www.uco360.com

the kids and I really took to that. I thought, this is really important work, and it’s really important to educate [kids] about health,” Scheihing said.

“I’ve always been interested in it and I’ve had some food issues,” Soper said. “As I’ve gotten older, and had a son, I realized I needed to get healthy. I was always athletic, and I really got back to that.”

“Growing up I didn’t really know what I wanted to major in. I’ve always had questions of ‘What was good for you, what was bad for you’, and so when I got to college, my freshman year, I found out about their program. I heard it was good and it interested me, and so far I’ve liked it a lot,” Dye stated.

“I like knowing where food goes in the body and all that kind of stuff,” Plummer explained.

Central Station Open Tuesdays and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Located through the North door of the Human Environmental Sciences building.

Offers sandwiches, brownies, specialty coffees, smoothies and more.

H 77° L 65°

DID YOU KNOW? In a 2008 survey 58% of British teens thought Sherlock Holmes was a real guy

OPINION

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SEP. 15, 2011

THE VISTA 100 North University Drive Edmond, OK 73034 (405)974-5549 editorial@uco360.com

Would you ever consider doing an internship overseas?

The Vista is published as a newspaper and public forum by UCO students, semi-weekly during the academic year except exam and holiday periods, and only on Wednesdays during the summer, at the University of Central Oklahoma. The issue price is free for the first copy and $1 for each additional copy obtained.

PHUONG PHAM

KHANH BUI

SOLEMAN HAQUE

Marketing - Sophomore

Marketing - Sophomore

Biology - Freshman

EDITORIALS Opinion columns, editorial cartoons, reviews and commentaries represent the views of the writer or artist and not necessarily the views of The Vista Editorial Board, the Department of Mass Communication, UCO or the Board of Regents of Oklahoma Colleges. The Vista is not an official medium of expression for the Regents or UCO. LETTERS The Vista encourages letters to the editor. Letters should address issues and ideas, not personalities. Letters must be typed, double-spaced, with a maximum of 150 words, and must include the author’s printed name, title, major, classification and phone number. Letters are subject to editing for libel, clarity and space, or to eliminate statements of questionable taste. The Vista reserves the right not to publish submitted letters.

Address letters to: Editor, The Vista, 100 N. University Dr., Edmond, OK 730345209, or deliver in person to the editor in the Communications Building, Room 131. Letters can be e-mailed to vistauco@gmail.com.

STAFF

Management

Editorial

Cody Bromley, Editor-In-Chief Christie Southern, Managing Editor Brittany Dalton, Copy Editor Trey Hunter, Sports Editor

Samantha Maloy, Senior Staff Writer Chantal Robatteux, Senior Staff Writer Ben Luschen, Staff Writer Chris Howell, Staff Writer Josh Hutton, Staff Writer Trevor Hultner, Staff Writer Bryan Trude, Staff Writer

Graphic Design

“I would just because it’s a new environment and it would be a new challenge. I would get to meet new people and it would be a great experience.”

“Yes, for me I love to ex- “No, because I have a lot of plore a new culture and friends here and I wouldn’t environment. It would be want to leave them for that.” very helpful for my future career.”

CONNOR WILKINSON

CODY DAUPHIN

LIZZ WEBSTER

Kinesiology - Freshman

Criminal Justice - Sophomore

Kinesiology - Freshman

Anthony Murray

Advertising

Photography

Kylee Turner

Garett Fisbeck, Photo Editor Liz Boyer

Circulation Troy Fisbeck

Adviser

Editorial Comic Evan Oldham

Mr. Teddy Burch

Editorial

WHATEVER HAPPENED TO INTEGRITY? My morning routine consists of a great cup of coffee and perusing the New York Times.

To me, the Times is one of the most highly regarded sources of information available to students on campus. However, a particular story on Monday’s front page made me cringe because it violated one of the basic journalism principles we are taught to eliminate from our stories—inserting political biases.

Underneath the latest coverage of the GOP contender race was an article on the increase of bullying and suicides of gay children in a particular Minnesota school system. The lead of the story opens with the writer telling us that much of this district happens to fall under Michele Bachmann’s Congressional district.

While homosexuality is a hot topic in politics, Bachmann’s name had no place in the lead of that story. She isn’t the news.

The children affected by discrimination are.

It wasn’t until the second paragraph that the reporter remembers the topic and tells readers the news.

One time is forgivable but three times through out the story?

Not so much. Haflway through the article, the writer tactfully reminds us that Bachmann belongs to a Christian organization that vehemently opposes homosexuality. Again, what was the point of that?

By sprinkling carefully selected bits of information on Bachmann’s personal affiliations, the writer is clearly depicting a skewed view of the congresswoman.

Now, don’t get me wrong, she isn’t exactly my favorite person but there was no need to turn this story into a political agenda.

Not only does it subtly turn a tragedy into an anti-Bachmann campaign but also reflects badly on the paper.

C’mon, New York Times. Whatever happened to integrity?

If we have reached the point when even the Times will succumb to the pressures of political associations, what’s the future of media?

“No, because I have family here and I don’t want to leave them for a long period of time. I would get homesick.”

“Yeah, because it would be a good adventure and a way to see other parts of the world.”

“Definitely, I think that everyone should get out of the country and see the world.

There is no reason to just stay in the USA.”

The Vista invites and encourages letters to the editor.

Submitted letters are subject to editing for clarity, space and libel. Address your letters to : Editor, The Vista, 100 N. University Dr., Edmond, OK 73034-5209 Letters may also be e-mailed to vistauco@gmail.com or delivered to the Editor in person in Communications Building Room 131.

Correction: In our Sept. 13 issue, we ran the incorrect question with our campus quotes section. The question should have read, “Do you feel that you learn better when taught by someone of your own race or ethnicity?”

By Evan Oldham / Cartoonist

NEWS

SEP. 15, 2011 Golf

3

Opinion

SWINGING FOR SCHOLARHIPS

OFF THE RECORD By Brittany Dalton Dream A Little Dream

Andrew Green, a UCO golfer and senior business major, poses for a photo at Kickingbird Golfcourse in Edmond, Tuesday, Aug. 16, 2011. Photo by Garett Fisbeck, The Vista

By Josh Hutton / Staff Writer UCO’s second annual Swinging Fore Scholarships charity golf tournament is set to tee off on Sept. 22 at Rose Creek Golf Course. Last year the event raised over $12,000 in scholarships for UCO students.

This year Vice President of Student Enrollment Jay Corwin believes that amount will be reached again.

“My goal is $15,000, but I’m certain we will match last year’s total,” Corwin, who helped to create the fundraiser over a year ago, said. “Charity golf tournaments are just plain fun. It’s much more lighthearted.”

Last year, 48 golfers took to the greens to compete. For UCO students, faculty and staff the entrance fee stands at $75.

For community members outside of the university the price is $125.

“We have a tournament committee that really keeps things organized,” Corwin said. “We also have the support of the UCO foundation, which allows the donations to be tax write-offs.” Corwin stated the university first seeks UCO alumni to participate and then spreads to outside businesses.

The fundraiser organizers have also established four separate sponsorship

packages, beginning with the “Hole” sponsorship, which asks a $200 donation and in turn advertises the supporting business or organization at one of the 18 holes.

Sponsors may also sign up for the “Old North” package. The “Old North” package also allows the donors to enter the tournament with a team. The ability to use mulligans comes with the donation, and the donor team is recognized on the Swinging Fore Scholarships website.

The “Buddy Broncho” sponsorship package costs $2,500. The final tier is the “Bronze and Blue” sponsorship, which calls for $5,000. This year the tournament’s largest donor is OU Medical Center of Edmond.

Participants will be placed in two flights with four awards given, but the competitions are not limited by standard golf. Apart from the 18-hole norm, Swinging Fore Scholarships hosts holein-one, long drive, and closest to the pin contests. A silent auction will also be onsite to garner more donations.

“I’m definitely going to UCO because of the scholarship I received,” junior psychology major and Leaders of Tomorrow scholarship recipient Cara Fain, said. “I get a tuition waiver plus extra

so I don’t have to worry quite so much about money. The extra money I get pays for my books and beyond that it helps pay for my gas, enabling me to serve the students at my church twenty minutes away, tutor kids in Oklahoma City and volunteer at various things around the city.”

The purpose of the tournament’s donations not only goes towards encouraging enrollment, but also to aiding students in financial turmoil.

“We use the scholarship money as a retention tool to keep students in the greatest need here,” Corwin said.

Currently 25 percent of participants are either faculty or students at UCO. All golfers will receive a custom UCO driver cover. Even Corwin himself cannot wait to tee off.

“There will come a point where I turn it over to the rest of the committee and go play,” he said. “I love to play, but that doesn’t mean I’m any good.”

Swinging Fore Scholarships are still accepting individuals and teams. If interested, visit the tournament website at www.uco.edu/golftournament or contact Corwin at jcorwin@uco.edu.

Fundraiser

ON-CAMPUS SOCIOLOGY GROUP SPOTLIGHTING POVERTY ISSUES

By Brittany Dalton / Copy Editor The Institute of Hope, a Sociology group on-campus dedicated to awareness and engagement, will provide an educational yet entertaining night for students. The Institute of Hope will be screening “Winter’s Bone” Thursday, Sept. 21 at 7:30 p.m. in the Pegasus Theatre.

Dr. Amanda Miller, facilitator of the Institute and an assistant professor of sociology, said the movie highlights a number of issues that tie in with the Institute of Hope’s focal topic of the year: rural poverty.

“The movie is about a rural girl’s struggles with poverty,” Miller said. “Her mother’s mental health problems, as well as the fact that her dad is a meth manufacturer, are struggles she has to face while trying to not only feed her siblings, but save her home and family.”

In conjunction with the movie, a panel will be held to discuss relevant topics. Among the topics discussed will be the effects of substance abuse on the family, meth use in Oklahoma and mental health in families. In attendance to discuss mental health and the family will be Dr. Keith Killian and Dr. Leeda Copley.

The screening of “Winter’s Bone” is just the first of many events the Institute, a group of eight sociology students spanning from sophomore to senior, have planned for the semester.

The Institute of Hope, initially formed in conjunction with a scholarship program, picks a different ‘cause’ each semester.

Miller describes it as a very hands-on, “transformative” class; the Institute has no formal meeting time, instead preferring to meet as needed to brainstorm and plan.

“The really cool thing is that the students are the ones coordinating, planning, organizing and implementing all these

events,” Miller said. “And because it is up to [the students], I can’t wait to see what creative, amazing things they will dream up for the upcoming Poverty Awareness Week.”

“The fall semester for us will be more about raising awareness,” Miller said. “Our events will be geared toward raising as much awareness among the university population about the issue [of rural poverty]. In the spring, our efforts will be on engagement; in other words, encouraging students to get involved.”

Sean Rose, a senior sociology major and one of the eight Institute students, agrees.

“We want other students to get involved and help out,” he said. “We want to inform students in hopes that they will do what they can to make a difference.”

I hate to be the one to break this to you, but you’ve been wrong all your life.

Now, while you marshal indignant, heated counterarguments, let me preface my own with a story.

My senior year, the high school I attended staged a production of Fiddler on the Roof. The ropes squeaked as the curtain rose on a backlit scene of czarist-era Russia. As promised, Tevye biddy-biddybummed all day long and bemoaned the misfortune of being poor. A silhouetted figure eked out a lilting fiddle tune, and identically dressed girls danced with brooms and pans singing lovingly of the perks of youthful matrimony.

The bony-elbowed boy from my American history class clutched fruitlessly at his false beard as it slipped ever lower and lower down his neck at the wedding dance; from the mass of swinging elbows my English teacher emerged, hat askew and tie slung over one shoulder.

As evident from my description, my place was with the audience, not on stage.

My place isn’t to lie to you and say I deserved a starring role. Rather, my intent is to inform you that intent does not equate to aptitude. For example, if you are of slightest stature, football may or may not be for you. Some things, try as you might, you are not meant for. While there will always be the Rudy Ruettigers of the world, others of us just aren’t meant for ballet, or football or Broadway musicals.

The cornerstone of my Broadway dream was to be on stage, to belt the tunes that stood as soundtrack to all my adolescent life. Why, then, was I not in my senior year production? Why, then, did I not declare a musical theatre major promptly upon entering college?

It comes down to this: stage fright. Presented with a monologue, I would promptly exit stage right, or mumble the lines in a jumble of gibberish. Having grown up in an artistic family, I was always deeply immersed in music. However, my milieu was to engage in song within the safe confines of my car. And I find that audiences are greatly pressed for space in a twoton death trap.

Simply put, my Broadway fairy tale was just another rotting pumpkin in the garden of buried hopes.

And I venture to say you’ve got a few rotten pumpkins of your own.

I’m not trying to discourage anyone from trying their hardest, nor am I saying that you will achieve instant stardom overnight. All I’m saying is yes, dream a little dream. The key word here is little dream. Not a dream so outrageous that you’ll be disappointed in yourself when you’re in college for economics, not studio art.

Dream within your bounds; tomorrow may only be a day away, but where you’re at now, I assure you, is exactly where you’re meant to be.

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NEWS

SEP. 15, 2011

Volunteer

POST-GRADS SPREADING EDUCATION AND FREEDOM HALF A WORLD AWAY

By Danniel Parker / Contributing Writer Upon graduating college, students stand at a crossroads, staring down their life options with their degree in hand.

Living in a Third World country for 27 months to provide care and services for the sick and impoverished is one of those options. Graduates interested in venturing down that less-traveled road can apply to become a volunteer for the Peace Corps.

Shand Laughlin, the Peace Corps regional recruiter, spoke to 25 UCO students and faculty members at an information session on Wednesday.

“The prime objective of the Peace Corps is to promote world peace and friendship,” Laughlin said. “We are looking for volunteers who adapt quickly to new environments and foreign cultures that might. We recommend all applicants have education in foreign languages and at least a bachelor’s degree.”

Laughlin was stationed in Uzyn, a small village in the Ukraine, 20 miles outside their western border with Russia. There he lived in an old Soviet bloc apartment without heat and limited running water.

A month and a half after Laughlin arrived, the Orange Revolution started. As the people of the Ukraine protested and rioted over a rigged election, eventually ousting a president, he stayed safely on base as history unfolded.

His job was to teach English to the natives.

He was paid a stipend as a federal employee that was on par with the average salary of a teacher in the Ukraine, he said.

“Teaching English is the biggest part of the Peace Corps, and that’s what about a third of our volunteers do.” Laughlin said. “So fluency in a foreign language is the most important skill we look for in volunteers.”

There are six different programs that encompass the Corps: Education, Health, Youth and Community Development, Business and

Communication Technology, Agricultural and Environmental programs.

According to their brochure, 22 percent of volunteers work to better Third World health, mainly treating patients afflicted with HIV or AIDS. Coincidentally the majority of volunteers are stationed in sub-Saharan Africa, where the virus is epidemic.

Though the idea of Americans embedding themselves in impoverished countries might appear hazardous at first glance, Laughlin said that is not the case.

“Maintaining the health and safety of our members is the most important thing,” he said. “Every week the Corps meets with the ambassador to our host countries to receive a security briefing, so in the event that the region would become dangerous, we evacuate our volunteers out of there before trouble starts.”

In 2008 before civil war broke out in the country of Georgia, the Peace Corps were evacuated and have since reestablished their stations.

Even if many citizens of these countries have negative sentiments about America, they hold a positive view of the Peace Corps, he said.

Benefits volunteers get from of joining include student loan deferment or forgiveness, health care, job placement services, $7,400 upon completing service, and an edge on their resumes when applying for a job with the federal government.

“Most importantly a Peace Corps member gets the experience, skills and a great network of support,” Laughlin said.

Laughin has visited UCO for the past five years. He said each year roughly six students volunteer to join, but fewer are accepted.

Though a few people in attendance walked out during the presentation, many more stayed afterward, to speak to him about signing up and travelling to faraway lands.

A Peace Corps Response Volunteer bonds with students at his community’s high school in Liberia. Photo by Peace Corps

Anna Wilson, one of the students in attendance, is a senior who is majoring in public relations. She says joining is a strong possibility.

“The main reason I want to join the Peace Corps is experience, and in our economy there just aren’t very many jobs available,” Wilson said. “Even though it’s not a lot of money, that stipend sounds pretty good right about now.”

The presentation was brought to the school in association with UCO’s Career Services Department.

Employee Relations Coordinator Da’Mon Smith said it’s important that the Peace Corps speaks to students every semester.

“Right before people in their senior year are about to graduate, they need the opportunity to think about doing something outside of traditional employment or graduate school,” Smith said. “This is a great alternative to what people traditionally do after college.”

Smith is on course to finish his master’s degree at the end of the fall semester. Afterwards he’s hoping to be accepted by the Corps and preferably sent to serve in the Caribbean.

He plans on pushing for UCO to consider incorporating the Peace Corps Master’s International Program for students majoring in political science and foreign relations.

“Our political science graduate program is exploding with people right now, so the want for this program is definitely here, but I’m not sure of the likelihood of us getting the program,” he said.

Students signed up to the Master’s International program would receive one year of post-graduate schooling on campus, then 27 months volunteering overseas with the Peace Corps, which would transform their volunteering into graduate work.

For more information on the Peace Corps, or the Master’s International program, go to www.peacecorps.gov.

NEWS

SEP. 15, 2011

5

Education

HAVING A TEACHER OF YOUR OWN A new study suggests that students taught by professors of the same ethnicity perform better in school. The study reports a 2.9 percent gain in course completion by minority students taught by professors of thier same ethnicity.

Yvette Walker, the Ethics endowed chair at UCO, gave her opinion of the study.

“I thought the subject was fascinating. But there might have been some innate flaws in the interpretation of the data,” she said. “If an African American student is taught by an African American instructor, the study suggests that the learning increases, but is this true?”

Walker suggests a more thorough test of the students in the subject matter of that class would have to be conducted to truly know if they are learning.

“We don’t know how the instructor is teaching so we don’t know if they are truly learning,” Walker said. “Students learn when the teacher engages them and uses tem building, interaction, plus lecture.”

Walker admits that she notices no difference in academic performance amongst races in her classes.

“They all receive the grades that they deserve,” Walker said.

Another point that the study brought up Yvette Walker talks to the students in her class, Sept. 9, 2011. Photo by Liz Boyer, The was that the shift in academic performance by minority students is most evident for younger Vista bia; and Philip Oreopoulos of the University students up to 21.5 years old. UCO senior

By Shannon Moham / Contributing Writer of Toronto.

Ashley Combs identifies with this.

Are minority students more comfortable Their results were based on a data set from “When I was younger, I had a black psywhen they are taught by instructors of the more than 30,000 students in more than chology professor that I respected and I saw same race as them? A study done at a Califor- 21,000 course sections at De Anza College, myself doing what she does in my future,” she nia community college suggests so. a community college in Northern California. said. “And I think I saw her as a role model The study, “A Community College InstrucThe study suggests a gain of 2.9 percentage because we shared the same struggle.” tor Like Me: Race and Ethnicity Interactions points in the proportion of students completBut unlike the study suggests, Combs does in the Classroom,” was conducted by three ing courses taught by instructors of the same not feel that her instructor’s race directly coneconomics professors: Robert Fairlie of the race as students, cutting the gaps in minority tributed to getting a higher grade.

University of California at Santa Cruz; Florian versus white course completion rates in half.

“I’ve had the same class taught by both a Hoffmann of the University of British Colum-

white and black professor. I made the same grade in both classes but with the black professor, we had a relationship that was more than just professor and student,” Combs said.

Walker agrees with this part of the study and has a piece of advice for students who are looking for role models in their professors.

“Younger students are definitely more impressionable and I think they should seek out people who can teach them and not just those that look like them,” she said.

For more informtation about the study, scan this tag

goo.gl/TBZoE

Housing

UCO HOUSE CALLS CONNECT OUTSIDE CLASSROOM

By Trevor Hultner / Staff Writer The UCO Office of First-Year Experience needs faculty and staff volunteers for its “House Calls” program on Sept. 20. “House Calls” is a joint First-Year Experience Programs and Housing and Dining Services program.

“It’s a way for us to connect with students outside of the classroom, outside of the offices, and just to check on them and make sure they’re acclimating to the university and making sure everything is going okay,” Assistant Director Tori Christiansen said. “It’s a way for us to maybe find problems early on; also, it’s a way for us to get information out to the students and help them know that we’re here for them, basically.”

Fall 2011 marks the third semester for the program, which has staff and faculty perform cold calls on students living in resident halls.

Georgia Fiering, Executive Assistant to Executive Vice President Steve Kreidler, participated in the program in its first semester. She said she went into it completely blind, but it was a wonderful experience for her.

“It was bitter cold, and I was with a partner, and we did part of the Suites building. So we were out in the cold, knocking door-to-door, and we were just there to say ‘hey, how are things going, we hope you’re doing well, do you have any questions about school at all that we can help you with, or just anything, you know, any kinds of questions,’” Fiering

said. “The kids were fabulous. Most of them invited us right in, and were just so gracious; they wanted to chat and chat and chat.”

Faculty and staff sit down and talk with students about how the latter group’s experienc-

“Overall, I think we have had a very positive response from the students in that they appreciate knowning that those faculty and staff members care and that they’re here for them.”

Tori Christiansen, coordinator of Firsr-Year Experience Programs es at UCO thus far and offer any advice they deem necessary for a successful college career.

“We’ve had between 20 and 25 faculty and staff members each semester that we’ve done [UCO House Calls] who volunteer their time to come out and just say hey to the students and make sure that they’re doing okay, and just offer their expertise to the students if they’re having any problems or if they have any questions or needing advice on anything,” Christiansen said.

Other participants in the program included Dean of Liberal Arts Dr. Pamela Washington, and Director of Campus Activities and Events

The Office of First-Year Experience and Housing and Dining Services is putting on “House Calls” on Sept. 20. Faculty and staff will visit students to see if they need help.

Kay Robinson.

Robinson participated in the program’s first two semesters.

“It’s a really neat program. You get to go around and talk to the students in the residence halls that you wouldn’t normally see on a day-to-day basis in our office, so it’s kind of nice to go out to them,” she said.

“Overall, I think we have had a very posi-

tive response from the students in that they appreciate knowing that those faculty and staff members care and that they’re here for them,” Christiansen said.

UCO House Calls is scheduled for Sept. 20 from 6 to 9 p.m. Faculty and staff volunteers will receive a free meal and training session at Buddy’s immediately preceding the session.

6

CLASSIFIED

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Full and Part-time positions. Apply in person at Comet Cleaners. Flexible Schedules. 1401 S. Kelly Ave. Call 3595958.

SEP. 15, 2011 CROSSWORDS

Best Feet Forward in North OKC and in Yukon now accepting applications for part-time employment. 15-20 hrs/ wk, evenings and Sat. No retial experience necessary. Call 608-0404.

Help Wanted Tuxedo Junction is hiring self-motivated sales people for a part-time sales position at our Quail Springs Mall location. No experience required. We will train!

Base pay plus commission. Call Tim at 7511745 for more details or come in and fill out an application.

Sales Edmond Answer Servshed service-oriented company. Excellent part-time for a person with internet dexterity that enjoys talking with people. Flexible hours.

Must have own transportation. Paid hourly, mileage, plus. 348-4697.

Help Wanted Now Hiring part and full time cashiers and cooks for convenience store, I35 and Covell.

Please email Brandi at davisbrandi82@gmail. com.

Private Golf Club Looking for friendly, energetic people. Bartenders, banquet staff and wait staff in the Golfers Grill at River Oaks Golf Club. We have fulltime and part-time positions so come join our team! Will train!!

Located just a few minutes from UCO, apply in person at 10909 Clubhouse Road, Edmond OK or email david@riveroaksgolf.com

Part-TimeTeller Across Position. RCB 1. Thanksgiving dish Bank of Edmond. 5. Campus military Opening at our Edmond branch located at 610 S Kelly – 26-29 hrs per wk 7:45 AM to 1:00 PM – Mon-Fri/occasional Sat as needed 7:45 AM to 12:15 PM Min 1 yr previous teller &/or cash handling exper required – good math & Communication skills; ability to operate standard office equip; strong customer service skills Send resume to: fpalmer@ bankrcb.net or call (405) 463-5951 EOE

Research Volunteers Needed Help Wanted Researchers at OU Health Sciences Center need healthy volunteers ages 18 to 30 who have a parentwith or without a history of an alcohol or drug problem. Qualified participants will be compensated for their time.

Call (405) 456-4303 to learn more about the study and to see if you qualify. The University of Oklahoma is an equal opportunity institution.

Part-time jobs. Senior Services of Oklahoma is looking for students to fill part-time positions Monday-Friday. We pay $10/hour for energetic phone work. No experience is needed, we will train. Business is located at 1417 N.W. 150th St. in Edmond. Call 8791888 to set up interview.

Ask for Megan Parris.

FUN FACTS

Help Wanted Edmond Wine Shop is hiring for multiple PT and FT customer service positions. Cashiers and stock workers are needed. Must be 21. Applicants are expected to lift up to 50lbs. and must be able to stand for long periods of time.

Health insurance and vacation time are available to employees who meet company requirements.

We offer paid training and flexible schedules that cater to busy college students. Please apply in person: 1520 S. Boulevard

Shogun Steakhouse Looking for conscientious workers. Part-time servers, bussers, & bartenders. No experience necessary.

Dr. John Dee, a 16th century predecessor to James Bond, supposedly used the code 007 to send messages to Queen Elizabeth. The two zeros meant “for your eyes only.”

The French Kiss isn’t from France; it’s actually a slur against the nation.

In the 1920s, the English derided the French as the kind of people who’d go around sticking their tongues where they didn’t belong.

The only state highway in the U.S. that prohibits motorized vehicles is M-185 on Mackinaw Island in Michigan. You can travel on foot, bicycle or horse.

The only state highway in the U.S. that prohibits motorized vehicles is M-185 on Mackinaw Island in Michigan. You can travel on foot, bicycle or horse.

org.

9. Speed 13. “Don’t bet ___!” (2 wd) 14. Calyx part 15. “God’s Little ___” 16. Indisposed (3 wd) 19. Idiot 20. The real ___ 21. Denials 22. Homebuilder’s strip 23. Sneeze response 27. “Desire Under the ___” 31. Cartoon art 32. Schuss, e.g.

33. Dirty 34. Calif. airport (acronym) 35. Beasts of burden 37. ___ cross 38. “Hamlet” has five 40. ___ constrictor 41. Football’s ___ Bowl 43. Eye affliction 44. Wall alcoves where light enters (2 wd) 47. At no time, poetically 49. Bit 50. Solicits money while performing music 52. On fire 55. Mugshots (2 wd) 58. Pepsi, e.g.

59. Representative 60. Bad marks 61. Any group derived from a simple aromatic ring 62. Erupt 63. “___ we forget”

Down 1. “___ rang?”

2. “___ and the King of Siam” 3. Calf-length skirt 4. Chest protector 5. Discuss again 6. Kind of column 7. Spotted, to Tweety 8. Ornamental climbing plants 9. Tennis ___ (pl.)

10. Bounce back, in a way 11. Deuce topper 12. “___ Town Too” (1981 hit) 14. Charger 17. French wine region 18. Appear 22. Go for 23. Balls 24. Legislate 25. A mile a minute 26. English exam finale, often 28. Kind of ticket 29. Cat’s cry 30. Disparaging remarks 35. Convent superiors 36. Fly high 39. Voluptuous 41. Fairy tale figure 42. Fleet’s commander 45. Roll about in mud 46. “Enchanted April” setting 48. Barely get, with “out” 50. Crude dude 51. Hideous 52. Preferred above others 53. “Good going!”

54. Patrilineal clan 55. ___ Victor (acronym) 56. Former measure of U.S. economy (acronym) 57. Undertake, with “out”

SUDOKU Puzzle 1 (Medium, difficulty rating 0.45)

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SEP 13 CROSSWORD ANSWERS

THE VISTA Advertise with us.

TARGETED. FLEXIBLE. EFFECTIVE! Contact us: (405) 974-5918 or vistamedia@yahoo.com

SPORTS

SEP. 15, 2011

7

Sports Opinion

FOOTBALL HEADS TO ANGELO STATE

UCO’s Steve Caldwell dives for a ball during a game between UCO and Southeastern Oklahoma State in Durant, Satureday, Sept. 10, 2011. Photo by Garett FIsbeck, The Vista

By Trey Hunter / Sports Editor The Central football team heads to San Angelo, Tex. this Saturday for their third straight road game to start the season.

The Bronchos started the year against one of the best teams in the country, the University of North Alabama. UCO lost the game 3110, but the contest was much closer than the score makes it out. Central went into halftime only down 14-3 against the Lions and were sniffing out an upset. However, North Alabama held UCO’s offense to seven points and forced three turnovers in the second half. The Bronchos might have had a chance in the game if they could have secured the football.

Last week in Durant, Central played well enough to win, but came up just short. The offense looked great at times and the defense held their own most of the game. Running back Josh Birmingham gave Southeastern all that they could handle on the ground with 127 yards off of 11 rushes. However, the Savage Storm was ready for Central’s heavy pass attack and limited UCO quarterback Ethan Sharp to just 207 yards and one touchdown. Southeastern’s pass attack was much more efficient with 235 yards and three touchdowns. The Bronchos were also dominated defensively by the Storm’s run game.

UCO gave up 279 yards on the ground along with a touchdown.

Angelo State brings a more balanced attack than Southeastern.

In their first game against Western State University, the Rams rushed the ball 53 times for 266 yards and three touchdowns. In game two against Chadron State University, Angelo rushed 35 times for 117 yards and one score.

The Rams have a decent passing attack as well. They threw the ball 21 times for 173 yards and a touchdown against Western State.

They had a better game through the air against Chadron State with 37 attempts for 271 yards and four touchdowns. Quarterback Blake Hamblin has all but two of the Rams’ attempts and hold a quarterback efficiency rating of 166.16.

The Rams gave up 115 yard on the ground and 315 yards through the air against Chadron in their 4942 shootout. However, the Western State game was a different story. Angelo improved defensively by only giving up 61 total yards rushing and 125 passing yards.

This matchup is one that UCO can handle. The Bronchos have the ability and talent on offense to put up big numbers against anybody. Sharp will have to be more in tune with the receivers however.

His talents are comparable with any signal-caller on UCO’s schedule, but he needs to make better decisions.

Birmingham should get the ball more than 11 times like he did in Durant. He is the best player of the

offense and should have the ball in his hands more often than not.

UCO’s defense has stepped up, especially after being one of the worst in the Lone Star Conference a year ago. New defensive coordinator Jason Petrino has done a stellar job and has his schemes finally settled in.

If the Bronchos can find a way to get over the fact that this is their third straight road game and they still don’t play at home until Oct. 1, they have a great chance to earn their first victory. Offensively and defensively they matchup, they just have to keep their heads in the game and play fundamental football.

MY PREDICTION: 35-24 UCO

Sports Opinion

VISTA SPORTS PREDICTIONS: NFL WEEK 2 The NFL season has started, and week two is approaching. The UCentral sports staff will offer our predictions every week to give readers an idea to who we believe will come up as the victor for each game.

NFL Week 2

Trey Hunter Vista Sports Editor

Bryan Trude Vista Sports Writer

Garett Fisbeck Vista Photo Editor

Amber Pyle Vista Sports Writer

Terry Fox UCentral’s “The Huddle”

Kyle Renfrow UCentral’s “The Huddle”

Courtney Landsberger UCentral’s “The Huddle”

Chiefs @ Lions

Lions

Lions

Chiefs

Chiefs

Lions

Lions

Lions

Raiders @ Bills

Bills

Bills

Bills

Bills

Bills

Bills

Bills

Buccaneers @ Vikings

Vikings

Buccaneers

Buccaneers

Vikings

Buccaneers

Buccaneers

Buccaneers

Bears @ Saints

Saints

Saints

Bears

Saints

Saints

Saints

Saints

Ravens @ Titans

Ravens

Ravens

Ravens

Titans

Ravens

Ravens

Ravens

Browns @ Colts

Browns

Browns

Browns

Browns

Browns

Browns

Browns

Jaguars @ Jets

Jets

Jaguars

Jets

Jets

Jets

Jets

Jets

Seahawks @ Steelers

Steelers

Steelers

Steelers

Steelers

Steelers

Steelers

Steelers

Cardinals @ Redskins

Cardinals

Redskins

Redskins

Cardinals

Cardinals

Redskins

Redskins

Packers @ Panthers

Packers

Packers

Packers

Packers

Packers

Packers

Packers

Cowboys @ 49ers

Cowboys

49ers

49ers

Cowboys

Cowboys

Cowboys

Cowboys

Chargers @ Patriots

Patriots

Patriots

Patriots

Chargers

Patriots

Patriots

Patriots

Texans @ Dolphins

Texans

Texans

Dolphins

Texans

Texans

Dolphins

Dolphins

Bengals @ Broncos

Broncos

Broncos

Broncos

Broncos

Broncos

Bengals

Broncos

Eagles @ Falcons

Eagles

Eagles

Eagles

Eagles

Eagles

Eagles

Eagles

Rams @ Giants

Giants

Giants

Rams

Giants

Giants

Rams

Giants

Last Week’s Picks (W-L)

11-5

9-7

9-7

10-6

7-9

8-8

5-11

SPORTS

8

SEP. 15, 2011

Opinion

Central Soccer

VIEW FROM THE CHEAP SEATS

CENTRAL SOCCER TEAM WEATHERS THE STORM shutout.

“I thought I could have gotten to it, but it was just a little too close to the post,” Bartley said. “I’m not too worried about it.

It was a good shot.”

Now, Central takes their two-game win streak on the road, beginning Sept. 16 against Texas A&M International (TAMIU) in Laredo, Texas. They then follow that up with an away game against St. Edwards University (Texas).

“It’ll be a long road trip. We’ll be down in Laredo, playing at night, it’ll be hot,” Cook said. “Road trips are tough. Our schedule is tough, we had to pick up games as an independent where we could find them this year. I told them it’ll be a tough road trip, if we can get down there and get some results, we’ll see where we go from there.”

TAMIU, members of the Division II Heartland Conference, enters the game against UCO after netting their first win of the season against Ouachita Baptist on Sept. 11. The 1-3 Dust Devils have only three goals on the season, including one from an overtime loss to former Lone Star Conference foe Incarnate Word.

The game kicks off at 8 p.m., and will be broadcast over the Internet, available from the TAMIU athletics web site at www. godustdevils.com.

By Trey Hunter

Vista Sports Editor

Jersey War Not Jersey Shore Yes, Nike has done it again. Only this time, they’ve gone too far.

The superpower of sports clothing has embroidered their brand on not only T-shirts, jerseys and shoes, they have also put their “check” on the subject line of chat room forums everywhere.

The company used to put out the best-looking apparel on the market; now they have trod the line of looking good and looking gaudy. Nike instituted their new “Nike Pro Combat” college football uniform scheme first with the University of Oregon.

The Ducks have been criticized for wearing many different types of jerseys since signing the deal with Phil Knight, CEO of the company. They have worn all black and all white, both times making it nearly impossible to see the numbers or names on the players’ backs. Now they have put their stamp on the Oklahoma State Cowboys.

The Cowboys have played two games so far this season, and both games have featured uniforms that barely match.

They wore silver jerseys with orange numbers and white pants in their first game against Louisiana University and wore black jerseys with orange numbers and black pants in game two against Arizona. It was almost too much to bear, and it’s only going to get worse.

Maryland University’s football program has followed the lead of Oregon and Oklahoma State, only with a different company. Under Armour’s answer to Nike’s Pro Combats were revealed as the Terps walked onto the field sporting helmets with the black and gold Maryland flag scheme on one side of their helmets and the red and white “crossland banner” on the other. Their jerseys had the same concept on each side of the shoulder pads with gold and red numbers covering their white chest. However, in the case of the Terps, this might be the worst uniform scheme they use all year.

As much as these jerseys hurt the eye, there are always two sides to every tale. Nike, Under Armour and the participating schools would argue that this type of new era technology helps their programs in different ways.

Picture yourself at 18 years old, with every big school in the nation knocking on your door. You may not make one of the biggest decisions of your life solely based on uniforms, but it does play a major factor. There is an old saying: “you look good, you feel good, you play good.”

There is no telling where all of these new jersey schemes might lead. There is, however, one thing that fans of the more traditional schools can count on: their jerseys aren’t going anywhere.

Oklahoma, Texas, Southern California and Ohio State have been wearing the same schemes for far too long and they don’t have to rely on the new era to bring the top recruits to their schools. Oklahoma will not switch from the crimson tops with the crème pants and there is no way Texas is going away from burnt orange and white.

Nike and Under Armour have done a fabulous job of targeting their selected market of college students and seniors in high school, just like they shoved Michael Jordan’s shoes in the faces of kids in the 90’s. Sooner or later we will all be wearing something with the Nike or Under Armour logo on it.

The only thing we can hope for is that the people who run these companies somehow find a sense of style.

Braden Balderrama (23) dribbles down the field Tuesday in a game against SNU. Photo by Liz Boyer, The Vista

By Bryan Trude / Sports Writer The Bronchos Women’s Soccer Team closed out their threegame home stand in convincing fashion, downing the Crimson Storm of Southern Nazarene University 3-1 on Sept. 13 in front of a raucous home crowd at Tom Thompson Field.

The Bronchos (2-3) earn their second consecutive win with freshman Brandi Bartley in the net, limiting the powerful Crimson Storm (4-2) attack to one goal in the final minutes.

It stands as a stark change for a team that carried an 8-1 goal difference against previous opponents this season.

“One shutout is good enough, but I wish I got another one today,” Bartley said. “It’s a lot of pressure [as a freshman] starting, but I have a great goalkeeping staff, I got senior [Samantha Rusk] backing me up, so I don’t have much to worry about.”

“We brought more mental toughness to this game,” Mike Cook, Bronchos head coach, said.

This is the second personally noteworthy game for Cook in as many matches. A SNU alumnus, Cook is credited with building the Crimson Storm program, serving as their head coach for five years.

“I started the Southern Nazarene program back in ’93, so it was a big game for me,” Cook said. “I told the girls, I really wanted to win this game.”

UCO opened up the scoring in the 22nd minute with an unassisted shot from junior Stephanie Fleig. She recorded two assists in the second half on goals by junior Brittni Walker (56th minute) and senior Katy Kashwer (60th minute).

A late goal in the 86th minute by Crimson Storm senior Jackie Acevedo ruined Bartley’s attempt at a second straight

Central Volleyball

BRONCHOS LOSE TO LIONS

MEN’S GOLF RESULTS West Texas Individual Results Josh Creel – 2 (68/68/136) Baer Aneshansley – T4 (70/68/138) Andrew Green – T20 (72/73/145) Logan Waresback – T28 (74/73/147) Dillon Rust – T32 (71/77/148) Men’s Team Result: 1st Place

WOMEN’S GOLF RESULTS Southwest Classic Individual Results Taylor Neidy – T5 (72/78/150) Chaney Uhles – T10 (76/80/156) Lindsey Bensch – T10 (80/76/156) Mychael McWhorter – T41 (84/87/171) Tressa Brumley – 48 (90/85/175) Women’s Team Result: 3rd Place

Miranda Thorne (9) attempts to head a ball away from a SNU player Tuesday. Photo by Liz Boyer, The Vista

Tate Hardaker sets a ball in UCO’s match against Arkansas-Fort Smith. Photo by Liz Boyer, The Vista

By Amber Pyle / Contributing Writer The Central volleyball team lost to Arizona-Fort Smith 0-3 Tuesday at Hamilton Fieldhouse in Edmond.

Senior Alex Richardson of Edmond led the Bronchos with eight kills; she earned two block assists, while Morgan Roy of

Oklahoma City collected six digs along with four kills and two block assists.

Tate Hardaker earned nine digs with one assist, and Bella Romero of Arlington, Texas, contributed 13 assists and three digs.

UCO scored six points early in the first set to take a 6-2 lead, later losing their lead as the Lions began to rack in two points to every one for the Bronchos. The Bronchos took advantage of a couple of Lion errors, and tied the match 25-25 before the Lions attacked leaving the final score 29-27.

Fort Smith scored three unanswered points early in the second set to take a 10-6 lead. A kill by Richardson and a few assists by Romero helped Central to gain momentum, going on a four-point run and tying the match at 15-15. UCO was unable to regain the lead and lost the second set 25-19.

Senior Fabiane Nass of Santa Catarina, Brazil, earned two kills and a block assist to help Fort Smith take an 8-6 lead into the third set. Central came back tying the game 10-10. The Bronchos fought to keep the score board tied at 21-21, when a serve ace by Whitney Hale and a block by Hiedi Luks put Fort Smith ahead four points ending the final set 21-25.

“We weren’t beaten by a better team, we beat ourselves.

There were some mental errors, especially in that first set,” Central head coach Jeff Boyland said. “We made errors, but that’s okay. There’s going to be some times that it happens.”

“The coaches are friends of mine and he says to me, you guys are getting better,” Boyland said. “We were in the locker room talking and I told them I was proud of the effort and the level we played, we just have to learn to execute a little bit better.”

Central will look to get back on a winning track Thursday, Sept. 15 as they visit East Central University in Ada, Okla., for a 7 p.m. match.

They return to play Southern Nazarene University in Bethany, Okla., Friday, Sept. 16 at 5 p.m.