UCO's The Vista, Oct. 24, 2023 by The Vista

Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023

Volume 121, Issue 7

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“OUR WORDS, YOUR VOICE.”

Tuesday, Feb. 22, 2022

Volume 119, Issue 19

Professor explains history between Israel and Palestine

Palestinians search through rubble of Yassin Mosque after airstrike (ASSOCIATED PRESS).

Palestinians walk through Nuseirat refugee camp in Gaza Strip (ASSOCIATED PRESS).

Jake Ramsey Managing Editor

ian Jewish journalist and noted as the ‘father of the modern political Zionist movement.’ “They were trying to secure a homeland for the Jewish people,” said Mohamad. “The Jewish people in history have suffered more than any group we can think about.” As noted by Mohamad, the diaspora of Jewish people throughout Europe was received poorly by radical, harmful groups like the Nazi party. After WWII, Jewish people were still without a safe place to live. “Finally they settled on a territorial solution,” said Mohamad. “From the start of the Zionist movement, the argument was, ‘let’s find a land with no people, for people with no land.’” “That formula is wrong,” said Mohamad. “That formula is a colonialist formula.” He goes on to discuss how ultimately the way of finding a land without people did not work out. “There were people in Palestine,” said Mohamad. Mohamad notes that one-third of Historic Palestine was Jewish, and that it was also a region where Jewish, Christian and Muslim religions all resided. After this moment in history, Israel would become a state in 1948. Mohamad discusses how, during this historical period, Israel would be seen as a massively powerful, young state which would gain the attention of the United States. “Those are the roots of the current conflict,” said Mohamad. “So the historical context, which is not resolved, Palestinians feel that they are the victims,” said

Israel and Palestine have been in armed conflict now for several weeks, but to fully understand the scope of the situation, history offers clues to analyze the series of events leading to the current situation, said University of Central Oklahoma professor Husam Mohamad. “When you deal with the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, unlike other conflicts, you’re going to find histories of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict,” said Mohamad, who is Palestinian. Mohamad broke down the intricacies of the conflicts by discussing the various narratives between the two sides. He said there are multiple different versions of history with this conflict and one cannot analyze part of the story without analyzing another. “Both narratives, unlike many other conflicts in the world, try to present themselves as the victims,” he said. “Usually there’s a victim and a victimizer in conflicts.” “Although Israel is the most powerful in the region,” said Mohamad, “It still perceives itself as the victim.” While he discusses the viewpoints of both Israel and Palestine, he notes that both sides of the conflict feel they have a right to the land through the basis of religion. He then goes on to discuss how complicated the subject is. Bridging the gap between contemporary conflicts and historical conflicts, Mohamad said, “This is not a very long conflict, it’s been one century. Primarily the last 75 years.” “The conflict is primarily based

on territorial issues and political issues,” said Mohamad. Mohamad discussed how if it were the case that one group had a spiritual right to the land over another group due to events that happened thousands of years ago, every country, including the United States he notes, would have a controversy. “You can still have spiritual attachment, religious attachment, political attachment narratives, but no nation in the world can claim that this land belongs to us,” said Mohamad. “If that were the case, Native Americans would own this land.” “It’s resolvable,” said Mohamad. Mohamad said the United States could play a role in being the peacekeeper during these conflicts and can act as a mediator during peace conferences. However, he goes on to note that he doesn’t see that being an option given President Joe Biden’s hardline position of defending Israel. In his view, the U.S. couldn’t be a fair mediator between Israel and the Palestinian people. “It’s histories,” said Mohamad. “If I were an Israeli or a Palestinian, I probably would give you two very different point-of-views.” He goes on to note how while the people in Israel and Palestine have very differing point-of-views on the situation, scholars that study history seem to be able to agree more on what has happened in history. He then began talking about the Zionist movement, a movement which began in the late 19th century that aimed to create the Jewish sense of community, through the means of a physical nation. The movement was led by Theodor Herzl, who was an Austro-Hungar-

Mohamad, “The Israelis feel that if Hamas is able to do this,” referring to the Oct. 7 coordinated attacks on Israel, “Even when we are encircling them, what do you think will happen if we give them control over the sea, over the land, over the air?” Mohamad said that while Israel’s views are understandable, he doesn’t believe that’s how the nation would react, making the claim that Hamas is attacking due to the historical conflicts and Israel’s occupation, not because they want to see Israel gone. “You (referring to the United States) were at war with Germany, you were at war with Japan, look at how nations behave when there is peace,” said Mohamad. “So the argument there is that if you make peace with the Palestinians, Israel’s security is going to be threatened,” said Mohamad, “Israel’s security is threatened right now, and it will be threatened again.” Mohamad said that if peace conferences and agreements are not called upon and made, the war will continue. However, he claims that if peace is actively discussed and mediation is undertaken, he doesn’t believe that Hamas would continue attacks on Israel. “Because those who are being killed in Gaza, and those children who have witnessed those atrocities, are not going to be extremely peaceful people,” said Mohamad, “After all we are reflections of our own environment.” “That’s not a justification, that’s an explanation,” said Mohamad, who believes that there was no justification in this conflict.

AG Drummond sues to stop US’ first publicly funded religious school Sam Royka Editor-In-Chief

The Attorney General has announced a lawsuit against the Oklahoma Statewide Virtual Charter School Board after they approved the use of public funds for a religious school. Drummond said the board “violated the religious liberty of every Oklahoman by forcing us to fund the teachings of a specific religious sect with our tax dollars.” Andy Fugate replied to the Facebook post announcing the suit. “It is religious tyranny to force another taxpayer to pay for your religious instruction,” he said. The first amendment guarantees freedom from religion in addition to freedom of religion. Section II-5 of Oklahoma’s constitution states “No public money or property shall ever be ap-

propriated, applied, donated, or used, directly or indirectly, for the use, benefit, or support of any sect, church, denomination, or system of religion, or for the use, benefit, or support of any priest, preacher, minister, or other religious teacher or dignitary, or sectarian institution as such.” Though the Office of the Attorney General told board members that voting to use tax dollars for the religious school would violate constitutional rights, it still passed 3-2. The Office of the Attorney General stated that “the school’s sponsor, the Catholic Archdiocese of Oklahoma City, has emphasized that religious indoctrination will play a prominent role.” “There is no religious freedom in compelling Oklahomans to fund religions,” Drummond said. Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond (AP/ SUE OGROCKI)

The Vista

ENTERTAINMENT

Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023

Weekly Horoscope

Sam Royka Editor-In-Chief

LEO

ARIES

TAURUS April 20-May 20

May 21-June 20

June 21-July 22

July 23-August 22

Security and finances are tested at this time, so if you’re feeling the intensity the eclipse might be why. Reach out for help where you need it and ground into yourself. You are your own greatest source of power. Your song is “Now Or Never - Bonus Track” by Kendrick Lamar and Mary J. Blige.

The eclipse transits your first house, changing your views on yourself. Remember that you have the power to pivot and change your approach at any time. How you react to situations can change their effect entirely. Your song is “Nostalgic” by A R I Z O N A.

Unconscious patterns of behavior drift up to the surface now. You close a cycle to start a new chapter. What’s ending is making space for something exciting and new. Your song is “Rebels” by Ivy Adara.

Friends, community, and networks come into the forefront now. The way you connect to others has the potential to act as a portal for you to step into the next phase of your life. Your song is “It’s All in Vain” by Wet.

Your career and public persona is shining! Align with your passions to better see what the next move is. It could be time to face the music in a way that slingshots you forward into something entirely new. Your song is “Dream Appropriate” by Westerman.

March 21-April 19

LIBR A

VIRGO

GEMINI

SCORPIO

September 23-October 22

Your philosophy on life is typically based in the crossroads of a careful balance. You will see now what your options are in order to better align this balance. You’re worth it! Keep going! Your song is Remi Wolf ’s cover of “Pink + White.”

With the Sun in Scorpio and this eclipse transiting your eighth house, get ready to see the hidden side of things. Secrets are most likely to reveal themselves now. Your song is “Don’t Be So Hard on Your Own Beauty” by yeule.

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

October 23-November 21

November 22-December 21

December 21-January 20

Happy birthday, Scorpio! Both Mars and the Sun align in your sign. The eclipse sends a large boost of slightly unpredictable energy to your close relationships. You may be offered information that helps you better understand another’s point of view. Your song is “Falaise” by Floating Points.

What are your everyday rituals? This can be as simple as coffee, skincare, or a nightly routine. A lunar eclipse here means that your everyday habits are getting a glow-up. Your song is “La Lune” by Billie Martin.

Your empire is strong enough to stand on its own now. This eclipse encourages you to let loose and take some of the stress off your shoulders. Don’t be so hard on yourself. Your song is “Arugula” by Junglepussy.

August 23- September 22

CANCER

Solar and Lunar Eclipses always

Week of 10/23/23 - 10/29/23

AQUARIUS

January 21-February 18

What talks are revolving around your home and family now? You could find yourself moving house or helping someone in need. Change is not the enemy. Your song is “Insomniac” by Memo Boy and Chakra Efendi.

PISCES

February 19-March 20

This eclipse sends a bolt of electricity into your communication, allowing for greater clarity and understanding. Your mind may also be moving faster now, which is excellent when put towards a constructive goal. Your song is “Mushroom Abolitionist” by Vegyn.

Week of 10/23/23 - 10/29/23

SUDOKU

Edited by Margie E. Burke

Difficulty: Medium

HOW TO SOLVE:

Each row must contain the 5 9 numbers 1 to 9; each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9; and 8 each set of 3 by 3 boxes must contain the numbers 1 to 9.

Answer to Previous Sudoku:

8 5 3 9 1 7 2 4 6 6 9 7 2 4 8 5 1 3 2 4 1 6 3 5 9 7 8 3 7 8 1 2 9 4 6 5 4 1 9 5 7 6 8 3 2 5 2 6 3 8 4 7 9 1 9 3 4 8 5 1 6 2 7 1 6 5 7 9 2 3 8 4 7 8 2 4 6 3 1 5 9

come in pairs. A Lunar Eclipse comes to visit on October 28. Because of its red appearance, a Full Lunar Eclipse is also known as a Blood Moon.

The Weekly Crossword

by Margie E. Burke

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 ACROSS 1 Jagged peak 14 15 16 5 Yarn spinner 18 19 17 9 Swelling in plants 22 23 20 21 14 Bring on 24 25 26 15 ___ and for all 16 Plane anagram 27 28 29 30 31 17 Head-heels connector 35 36 32 33 34 18 On the ocean 37 38 39 40 19 Preface, briefly 20 Like Lake Mead 41 43 44 42 22 Colorful marble 46 47 45 24 Bagel type 25 Baseball position 48 49 50 51 52 53 27 Penitent 56 57 29 The piper's son 54 55 32 Fanglike tooth 59 60 61 58 35 Monopoly deed 63 64 62 figure 37 Grew older 66 67 65 38 Biscuitlike pastry 40 Lubricates Copyright 2023 by The Puzzle Syndicate 41 Sense organ 43 Lapidary's 3 Field of play 34 Juicy fruit 51 Grief wares 4 Bacteria killer 36 Beatles' lullaby 52 Wipe away 45 Teacher's 5 Laundry 39 Architectural 53 Factions favorite measure style 54 Something to 46 Turned loose 6 Beetle, e.g. 42 Beat the drum take up 48 "The Return of 7 Royal flush card for 55 Harvest the King" king 8 Chemical 44 Eye drop? 57 Carrots' partner 50 Chilean range change 47 Digital 60 Crime lab evi54 Bring before a 9 Disparaging forerunner dence judge nickname 49 Firing place 56 Derived by logic 10 Thick like a Answers to Previous Crossword: 58 Bridle parts forest D O S E S P S S T A B L E 59 Motionless 11 Wine and dine C L I N T A L O E F E U D 61 Showy flower, 12 Figure in a nativC L A R E C A R D B O A R D for short ity scene R O C K Y C A N A A N I T E 62 Animal ailment 13 Burn soother P L A N E W I T H 63 Forest ox 21 After awhile P I T T M O R R I S H U M 64 Gardener's need 23 Bergman or S O F T C O P Y I N H U M E 65 Radar reading Bacall D E L O U S E C A R R O L L 66 Falls behind 26 Munitions maker K N E E D E E P L E S S E R 67 Uno, dos, ___ 28 Rainy-day fund S E A E S T A T E M E T S 30 Look slyly T O S S P E S T O DOWN 31 Shambles C R E P T C O N S E N S U S 1 Sink one's teeth 32 Be a nag R A I S E H O N E Y M O O N in 33 Pulitzer writer A P S E M U R A L A M E N 2 Competitor James R E D S D E E R S T I F F

HALLOWEEN

Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023

The Vista

Halloween films and series offer screaming through streaming Bailee Brown Contributing Writer

Planning on streaming Halloween TV and film this year, but don’t know where to start? Iconic classics and frightening modern horror can be found on all the services for people needing to get into the spirit(s) of the holiday. The Fall of The House of Usher (2023): Created by Mike Flanagan, known for “The Haunting of Hill House,” “The Midnight Club” and “The Haunting of Bly Manor.” Netflix released “The Fall of the House of Usher,” a chilling horror series inspired by multiple works of Edgar Allan Poe. Stream on: Netflix Practical Magic (1998): The perfect soft entrance into Halloween and fall time, “Practical Magic,” starring Sandra Bullock and Nicole Christine (SCREENSHOT/SAM ROYKA) Kidman, has inspired our minds and our wardrobes for decades. Stream on: Hulu The Craft (1996): “We are the weirdos, Mister.” This cult classic is sure to make your witchy Goth mysticism reach its peak. Stream on: Hulu AHS Delicate (2023): “American Horror Story” has been captivating audiences with its terrifying twists on reality in the 21st century for years. The newest season includes the usual repertory cast, plus Kim Kardashian. A must watch. Stream on: Hulu The Addams Family (1991): We’re talking about the original, here. One of the most famous Halloween movies of all time, snap snap. Stream on: Amazon Prime Beetlejuice (1988): Tim Burton is the king of odd spooky films and “Beetlejuice” is a favorite. Just don’t say his name three times. Stream on: MAX

Beetlejuice (SCREENSHOT/SAM ROYKA)

Stephen King Collection: Watch the films based on Stephen King’s most famous novels, including “The Shining,” “Christine,” “Pet Sematary” and more. Stream on: MAX Hereditary (2018): One of the most disturbing horror films in recent history, “Hereditary” is not for the faint of heart. Stream On: MAX Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974): The original is almost always the best. Watch one of the most immersive and visceral horror movies in cinema history this Halloween. Stream on: MAX A24 Films: A24 has been setting the standard for the horror genre in the last decade. A24 movie night includes their iconic recent films like Ty West’s “X” and “Pearl.” Stream on: Paramount Plus

The Addams Family (SCREENSHOT/SAM ROYKA)

‘Over The Garden Wall’ is a love letter to the creepy days before Halloween Britton Summers Reporter

Does magic exist? In a cynical, hardened age it might seem people are actively attempting to stamp out the magic and majesty of our world. Sometimes it seems that we have forgotten that magic does exist, and we can find it in our world, but we must make the effort to do so. But what does this have to do with “Over the Garden Wall?” Well, “Over The Garden Wall” is one of those pieces of media that feels magical through and through. Alongside Ray Bradbury’s “Something Wicked This Way Comes,” there’s a sense of wonder that comes when I watch “Over the Garden Wall” that I can’t find anywhere else. Rather it be the gorgeous animation, foreboding atmosphere, the excellent voice acting, or the melancholic soundtrack, “Over the Garden Wall” feels like you’ve been transported to another world, another plain of existence. The world of “Over the Garden Wall” never

echoes a specific era of history, but is more interested in capturing a vibe that is that fall feeling. Many people have described this show as the perfect fall show as well as a perfect Halloween show, and I would agree with it. The whole show feels like autumn and Halloween. “Over The Garden Wall” is a show that fires on all cylinders. As mentioned before, the voice acting, the score, the animation, the atmosphere, and the writing come together to create something that is wholly unique and singular in its vision. I have a particular soft spot for its score, which combines melancholy, whimsy, and dread all at once. The character development of Wirt, Greg, and Beatrice is tender, emotionally resonant, and relatable, not only to children but for people of all ages. The voice acting of newcomers and veterans alike such as Elijah Wood, Collin Dean, Melanie Lynskey, and Samuel Ramey are exquisite. We even see

STAFF Sam Royka Editor-in-Chief Jake Ramsey Managing Editor Jaydon Sims Photo Editor Matilda Harvey Copy Editor Sam Kozlowski Reporter Zak Royka Reporter Britton Summers Reporter Phil Rodriguez Sports Reporter Ethan Brown Photographer Tess Peters Graphic Designer George Lang Adviser

VISTA 2022-23 layout design by Kevin Davis Advertise with us! The Vista is published weekly during the spring, summer and fall semesters. In all issues, The Vista has opportunities for both digital, online and print ads. For information or questions, contact: 405-974-5549 or thevista.ads@gmail.com

the talents of legends such as Christopher Lloyd, Tim Curry, and John Cleese offer their vocal talents to the show and add their distinctive flair to the show. “Over The Garden Wall” is a show that entrances, as well as unnerves. It combines the absurd along with the eldritch. It’s a show that’s perfectly spooky without alienating its demographic audience while intelligent enough to appeal to all ages. It’s one that I hope goes into the halls of the greats. Once again, I come back to the question of if magic exists. After watching “Over The Garden Wall,” I can say with the biggest smile on my face that it does. It absolutely does.

UCO’s Student Voice Since 1903

The Vista is published as a newspaper and public forum by UCO students weekly during the academic year, at the University of Central Oklahoma. The issue price is free.

be typed, double-spaced and must include the author’s printed name, major, classification and phone number. Phone numbers are included for contacting purposes only.

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 Communications, UCO or the Board of Regents of Oklahoma Colleges. The Vista is not an official medium of expression for the Regents or UCO.

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.

LETTERS The Vista encourages letters to the editor. Letters should address issues and ideas, not personalities. Letters must

ADDRESS LETTERS TO: Editor, The Vista 100 N. University Dr. Edmond, OK 73034-5209 Or, deliver in person to the editor in the Mass Communications Building, Room 131. Letters can be emailed to sroyka@uco.edu.

4 The Vista

Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023

‘Flower Moon’ shows importance of true Oklahoma history Jake Ramsey Managing Editor

Martin Scorsese’s “Killers of the Flower Moon,” a film about the murder’s in the Osage Nation and the birth of the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) during the early 20th century, released Oct. 20, and highlights key events in Oklahoma’s history that are often forgotten or obscured. Scorsese’s three-and-a-half hour epic, which was mostly filmed in Oklahoma, has already been screened to a large audience, raking in $9.4 million on opening, and having a spot on many theaters IMAX screens for the rest of the month. The film features many familiar faces, such as Leonardo DiCaprio as Ernest Burkhart, as well as Robert De Niro as William Hale, neither of which are strangers to Scorsese’s films. Alongside DiCaprio and De Niro, the film also stars Lily Gladstone as Mollie Burkhart, and many other Native American actors playing the characters in the Osage Nation. Scorsese also went to great lengths to ensure the historical accuracy of the film, which included working with the Oklahoma Osage Nation and having many cultural advisors on set to ensure that the film was being respectful to those harmed during the time of Oklahoma’s founding. While this was important for Scorsese on set, it’s also an important plot-point of the film. Erasure through assimilation. Assimilation is the process of incorporating one group into another, which often leads to an erasure of culture, tradition and people. This is what happened to many of the Native Americans, especially during the

Photo of Lily Gladstone and Leonardo DiCaprio as Mollie Burkhart and Ernest Burkhart (Provided/Associated Press).

time of the Osage murders. At the beginning of the 20th century, Oklahoma was just becoming a state, and while it was still mostly Native land, it didn’t take long for that land to be taken away. Leaving little pockets of space for the Native people. The Osage landed in what is now known as Osage County, in between Tulsa and Ponca City. During the early 20th century, the Osage discovered oil on the land, which would ultimately lead to them becoming rich and prosperous. But many greedy settlers, referred to in the film as “coyotes,” came into the town looking to take the riches for themselves. This is what would lead to the historic murders that happened in the Osage Nation. The Osage murders were not the only events that happened in post-

WWI Oklahoma. During 1921, the Tulsa Race Massacre occurred. The Tulsa Race Massacre took place in 1921 and saw the destruction of what was known as “Black Wall Street.” This was a wealthy section of the Black community during the early 20th century, and led to many advancements within the community and the fight for civil rights, but was burned down and destroyed after a group of white people accused a 19-year-old Black man named Dick Rowland of assaulting a 17-year-old white woman named Sarah Page. The events that transpired between Rowland and Page have never been confirmed, but the accusation alone was enough for the entire community to be destroyed. This is an important plot point of the film, as Scorsese highlights it

during the March 10, 1923 bombing of Bill and Rita Smith’s home. During the scene after the explosion, you can hear many people in the background yelling out, “This is just like Tulsa,” showing the fear the Osage felt that the events that transpired in Tulsa were going to happen to them, too. This event is what would ultimately lead to federal authorities opening an investigation. Scorsese chooses these moments and events very carefully with his film, in order to demonstrate the complex history of Oklahoma and just how our state came to be. Because of his care for this rich history “Killers of the Flower Moon” is elevated to another level that another director would be unlikely to achieve.

‘Marvel’s Spider-Man 2’ elevates comic book gaming Jake Ramsey Managing Editor

“Marvel’s Spider-Man 2” released Oct. 20 exclusively to the PlayStation 5 console, and Insomniac Games proves once again that Marvel’s flagship hero is the perfect protagonist for a video game. “Spider-Man 2” delivers on many accounts, but the biggest accomplishment of this game is its story. Insomniac Games, the developer of “Spider-Man 2,” does a brilliant job of blending the two Spider-Men stories together in an interesting and compelling way. Seeing Peter Parker have to navigate life without his Aunt May, and Miles Morales learning to swing just as he’s about to go into college makes for the perfect setup for the two stories that are followed throughout this game. Beyond just the story, the gameplay is phenomenal. In an almost unthinkable way, Insomniac developed a wonderful combat system, blowing the first games out of the water and even rivaling the combat which appeared in the latter entries of the “Batman: Arkham” series.

“Spider-Man 2” takes everything that was beloved about the first game and enhances it. With new abilities such as the symbiote suit, or many may know it as the villain turned anti-hero Venom, as well as the ability to glide using the “web-wings,” there’s several new additions to the series that add to a more interesting and fun experience. Another wonderful thing about the game is the ability to choose between Spider-Men. Having the option to play as Peter Parker or Miles Morales and explore the individualized missions for those heroes allows for a more interactive experience for the player, and doesn’t make you feel bogged down by being forced to play as one or the other. The game also takes full advantage of the nextgen software that it’s operating on. Gone are the days of long loading screens and boring fast travel animations. Now, all it takes is the push of a button and you’ve fast traveled the entirety of the map with zero load time. While that’s great and all, the game is about Spider-Man after all, and who would he be without the swinging? And that is arguably the most fun part of the game.

These Spider-Men play through new frontiers on the PlayStation 5. (SONY/PROVIDED)

Swinging high above the streets of New York at speeds so fast you’re likely to lose control on the first few adventures around the city, but as you start to learn more about the controls you’ll never want to stop web-swinging through the city. And that’s what this game does best, it doesn’t make you want to stop playing. Not once will you actually want to put the controller down and that’s the sign of a great video game. Beyond just having a wonderful story and being a technical marvel, the game genuinely does make you feel like you are in the action. It makes you feel like you’re swinging, like you’re fighting, like you’re experiencing the hardships of our two Spider-Men. Ultimately the game makes you feel like Spider-Man. The game makes you love Spider-Man, and that’s all you can ask for with comic-book media. Whether it be a game, movie, or TV show, it’s the best feeling when you’re watching or playing your favorite superhero and you think, “This is why I love comic books.” learning experience for all students in ways that a more restricted culture simply can’t,” Kirwan wrote.

The Vista

Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023

UCO TRIO is here to make a big difference On-campus program helps all with counseling, financial aid, tutoring and more

Sam Kozlowski Reporter

The University of Central Oklahoma TRIO program in the Max Chambers Library provides counseling, financial guidance, tutoring and many more services for students of all backgrounds. “At TRIO, we do what we can to break down financial barriers and other barriers that prevent students from succeeding or getting into college,” DeShawn Watson, the Senior Director of TRIO Pre-College Programs said. Student Support Services in room 315 of the library and the TRIO offices just below, in room 221 both help students with financial literacy training, mentoring, FAFSA completion and graduate school preparation. TRIO has numerous programs– their main goal being to provide educational support services to students, including those with low-income backgrounds, first-generation students, students with disabilities and veterans. President Lyndon B. Johnson launched federal TRIO programs as part of the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 in an effort to fight poverty in the United States. In 1965, TRIO programs were implemented on campus at UCO for the first time and have

continued being funded since. Watson experienced the benefits of TRIO at UCO as a student, long before he started working for the university, “We were doing a lot of activities on campus, like College 101, enrichment courses, cultural field trips and college visits.” Programs include: STRIVE, which serves students in all majors with course selection, financial aid, tutoring and graduate school preparation. The McNair Scholars program supports college sophomores, juniors and seniors in guiding them to graduate school. GEN STEM, a research-based program that helps students in STEM, Health Science and Forensic Science majors by assisting with research grants, industry tours and career exploration. The SALUTE program serves veterans of all majors, with assistance in transitioning from military to college life, including financial aid, tutoring and career exploration. TEACH assists those interested in Education through certification test preparation, career specific workshops, financial aid, tutoring and financial literacy training. TEAM is focused on providing support for students with disabilities such as anxiety, depression, ADD, physical disabilities, high school IEP students and more. Scholarship opportunities,

financial literacy training and tutoring are some of the services provided. LA META serves Latinx students who come from primarily non-English speaking households with vocabulary building, presentation skills, financial aid, financial literacy training and course selection. UPWARD BOUND and UPWARD BOUND Math and Science help low-income and first generation high school students pursue their dreams of higher education. TRIO Talent Search provides free educational services for first generation students whose neither parent has a four-year degree. Eligibility requirements may vary depending on the program. Earlier this year, President Biden’s FY2024 budget plan proposed a $107 million (9%) funding increase for TRIO, accounting for approximately $1.3 billion. TRIO programs have helped millions throughout the years and it will continue providing aid for students at UCO, as long as yearly student population requirements are met to maintain funding. “Our students go through a lot, but they make it and succeed,” Watson said.

Participants in the TRIO program pose for a picture outside the AT&T Stadium. (PROVIDED/UCO TRIO)

Doctoral degree offered at UCO in forensic science

UCO’s own forensic science has been awarded and recognized as one of the best in the country; now it has its own doctorate. (PROVIDED/OFFICIAL)

Hannah Wagar Contributing Writer

The University of Central Oklahoma marked a new milestone on Oct. 16 as it announced the approval of its first doctoral degree after years of development. The Higher Learning Commission told the University last week that the proposed Doctor of Science (D.Sc.) in forensic science was officially approved. “This is a landmark moment for the University of Central Oklahoma,” UCO President Todd Lamb said in the school’s official press release. “UCO is now unquestionably the destination for forensic science education at every level, leading the way in developing the workforce in

this important area.” According to Mark McCoy, the Forensic Science Institute interim director, this approval arrived after years of planning and program design, along with an extensive review including an HLC visit in July to evaluate the department’s facilities and the program. “This new doctoral program marks a significant milestone for UCO and the W. Roger Webb Forensic Science Institute solidifying our position as one of the nation’s leading institutions for forensic science education. At UCO, we are committed to workforce development, and the Doctor of Science in forensic science stands as a testament to that dedication,” said McCoy in the press release. McCoy shared that the will offer 60 additional hours of graduate courses that include train-

ing, seminars, and internships that will expand beyond the master’s program. It will focus on training individuals wanting leadership roles in forensic science, primarily training lab managers and technical leads. Students will have to get a broad and deep overview of all the disciplines in forensic science in this program so that they can manage a crime lab. “Our biggest audience may be those already in the field, though some students will enroll directly after obtaining their master’s,” McCoy says, “so, most of the courses will occur in the evening, to aid those already working with private, state, and federal labs.” The forensic science doctorate program will be offered starting in Fall 2024, and priority applications are due April 15.

The Vista

Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023

SPORTS

Pay for play at college level widens gap between competing schools

USC quarterback Caleb Williams currently sits on an NIL valuation of $3.2 million. (DAVID ZALUBOWSKI/ASSOCIATED PRESS) C.J. Craig Contributing Writer

The world of college sports was flipped on its head in 2021 when the NCAA allowed players to get paid for their name, image, and likeness (NIL). This opened the door for college players to earn money and receive bonus gifts from their universities, such as getting a new truck like the University of Utah did for many of its recruits. It’s a completely different era of sports compared to the days of Dez Bryant

in 2009, when the Oklahoma State star was suspended for having lunch with Deion Sanders. Some of the more famous college athletes now have incentive to stay in school since the money they make from NIL is more than they would make on a professional rookie contract. But many questions still hang around, including whether college athletics should still be considered an “amateur” sport. UCO Assistant Athletic Director Chris Brannick said that the big NIL deals usually only come from

a small group of schools with large booster support. “There are Power 5 schools that are not succeeding the way that schools like Alabama, USC and Oklahoma are doing, so there’s a big divide within Power 5, and you still have the non-Power 5 Division I Schools, Division II, Division III and so on” said Brannick. “It’s very different, where a student at UCO might get an NIL deal with Chicken N Pickle, but compare that to what some of these athletes are doing on a bigger level and it’s really completely different.” In 2023, the NIL market is estimated to be over $1 Billion across college athletics. Some of those athletes earn millions of dollars from brand deals, donations, and endorsements. However, most student athletes make a small percentage of that, only being offered smaller deals like local restaurants and social media campaigns. At the lower levels of competition, a college athlete might be limited in what kinds of endorsement deals they can take simply because their athletic program doesn’t draw as much money as some of the top-tier teams. Brannick says that even though the elite Division I schools might warp the way we see NIL deals, at the lower levels of competition it can actually be necessary for these athletes.

“Where a big-time Division I 1 athlete might be trying to just increase their personal brand, at a Division II level, somebody might be using NIL opportunities to pay the bills. They’re probably doing a little more out of necessity than for personal gain.” The NCAA has come under fire regarding NIL simply because there isn’t a uniform set of standards that programs can adhere to. Currently, NIL deals are based on state law and regulation, so each program has different ways of conducting NIL deals and how they regulate them. This can create some problems for states whose legislature has yet to pass NIL laws into effect. 32 states have passed NIL laws, including Oklahoma, which recently put the law in place in May earlier this year. Brannick said that the NCAA needs to address the issues by implementing a set of standards that universities can operate under. “It is a bit of a wild west though, you know? I mean there were laws that governed society back then, people just kind of did as they pleased,” Brannick said. “I think that’s similar with NIL, there are rules in place to govern that program, but it’s a wide open deal right now and there’s a lot of workarounds.”

Bronchos pull ninth President’s Cup in a row against NSU

UCO President Todd Lamb poses with the Bronchos following their Oct. 21 President’s Cup win against Northeastern State. (CENTRAL SPORTS/PROVIDED)

Ray Robinson Contributing Writer

UCO’s football team evened out its season record Oct. 21 as the team beat Northeastern State University in Tahlequah. NSU’s overall record is 1-7, but their effort was on full display as they continued to put up a fight by making it a one-point game going into the fourth quarter. This game also marked a second season start for Junior Quarterback Dawson Herl. His performance was impressive, leading the team to

victory as Herl threw 3 touchdown passes and went 19 for 29. The Bronchos asserted their dominance early, going up 23-0 in the middle of the second quarter. UCO was the better passing team with a total of 258 yards compared to NSU’s 91. Trevon Woolfolk led his team again in triple-digit yardage with 17 attempts, for 102 yards. The impressive feat from the Bronchos didn’t seem to faze NSU too much as they matched UCO in rushing yards; both teams posted a total of 184 yards each.

The lead rusher of the game was NSU’s Blake May, who totaled 161 yards. This game is known as “The President’s Cup Game,” which is a rivalry between the two universities that dates back to 1915. The winner keeps the cup and continues to defend the trophy for the following years to come. UCO is currently on a nine-game winning streak in the rivalry, with their most dominant win in this streak being a 2019 victory at home as they beat NSU 82-14. With Saturday’s victory, UCO

leads with an overall record of 5427-2. The Bronchos have 3 more games left for the season. They’ll be on the road again to take on Fort Hays State this Saturday. Their last home game of the season will be against Washburn, as this game will be known as the Senior and Military Appreciation Day game on November 4th and they’ll wrap up their season at Pittsburg State in Pittsburg, Kansas on Nov. 11th.

Bronchos Buckaround: Lincoln bucks around and finds out Phil Rodriguez Sports Editor

The Bronchos football team stomped all over winless Lincoln University on Saturday, October 14 to the tune of 59-17. Quarterback Dawson Herl started in place once again of the injured Stephon Brown and threw for 358 passing yards while tossing 5 touchdowns to 5 different receivers. The Bronchos followed that up by defeating in-state rival Northeastern State 37-21 in their annual President’s Cup match on Saturday, October 21, marking their ninth straight victory over the Riverhawks. UCO is now 4-4 on the season, with their next matchup away at Fort Hays State this Saturday, October 28. (For more football coverage, check out our full game summary of the Bronchos’

victory over Northeastern State) The 19th-ranked UCO volleyball team had backto-back victories in their matches this weekend, taking down 8th-ranked Nebraska-Kearney in 4 sets Friday night (25-22, 24-26, 25-20, and 25-23). Sydney Huck led the team with 17 kills, while setter Lindsay Houran continued to rack up assists with 57 in this match alone. The Bronchos followed that up with a dominating performance against Fort Hays State Saturday night (25-17, 25-14, 25-18), with Addison Wimmer leading the stat sheet with 14 kills, and the team combining for an impressive 10 aces. Also in volleyball news while most of us were on break: Lindsey Houran was named MIAA Setter of the Week and Jaedynn Evans was named MIAA

Defensive Player of the Week on Monday, October 16. The Bronchos soccer team wasn’t quite as lucky, however, as they fell to the Emporia State Lady Hornets 2-1 on Sunday, October 22. UCO took the initial 1-0 lead with an Amaya Grace goal in the 57th minute, but Emporia State immediately answered that goal with one of their own just 10 seconds later, before adding a second in the 70th minute that the Bronchos just couldn’t catch back up to. UCO is now 4-6-6 on the season, with a disappointing 1-4-4 MIAA conference record. Unless they can win out in their final two conference games (both at home: Rogers State on October 27 and Newman on October 29), the Bronchos might miss out entirely on the MIAA tournament.

Wide receiver Darius Melton levitates during the UCO/Lincoln University game. (JAYDON SIMS/THE VISTA)

The Bronchos’ men’s golf team finished in 2nd place in the NCAA Regional Preview Tournament at KickingBird Golf Club last Tuesday, October 17. Redshirt freshman Nick Canales finished 2nd overall in the individual category at

the tournament as well, and was named MIAA Men’s Golfer of the Week for the second time this season on Wednesday, October 18.

Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023

HISTORY

The Vista

Undead: Ghost towns ressurected in black and white Jaydon Sims Photo Editor

A house painted with “Keep Out” in Picher, OK .

Ceilings fall in here at Shamrock, OK.

Buildings vandalized with “Welcome to Hell” in Picher, OK.

The neighborhood watch is no more in Picher.

A view of a church through trees in Meridian, OK.

Halloween traditions share a rich and spooky history Hannah Wagar

Contributing Writer

Halloween dates back centuries, and there are many seasonal traditions seen today that have historic roots, but many trick-or-treaters do not know their origin stories. Knowing how these rituals developed can make plunging a knife into a gourd much more satisfying. Carving Jack O’Lanterns The tradition of Jack O’Lanterns dates back to Ireland, with the Dublin Penny Journal publishing the first account in 1836. According to legend, a man named Stingy Jack outsmarted the devil, tricking him into not taking his soul. However, when Stingy Jack dies, the devil upholds their agreement and heaven refuses to take him because of his bad deeds in life. With nowhere to go, Jack is forced to wander the afterlife in between heaven and hell, with only a lantern to guide him. In subsequent years, the Dublin Penny Journal published stories about local pubs having “Jack Mclantern” carving competitions, encouraging individuals to cut grotesque or exaggerated faces

into hollowed-out turnips or rutabagas. In the early-to-mid 1800s, Irish immigrants to the United States began to utilize pumpkins and gourds, commonly associated with the fall harvest, for their lantern face carvings. Over time, it transitioned to be associated with All Hallows’ celebrations. Over the years, these carvings have gone by many names, but the most common is the Jack O’Lantern. This name in reference to a carved pumpkin is unclear, but the term was used in many books and articles from the mid-to-late 1800s in the United States, and the term was initially used to describe night watchmen who carried lanterns in 17th century Britain. Candy Corn Loved and despised in seemingly equal numbers, the candy corn was created at the end of the 19th century in Philadelphia during the popularity of rural farmthemed snacks. The National Confectioners Association commonly recognizes George Renninger, an employee of Wunderle Candy Company, as the creator. In 1888, Candy Corn was first sold, initially

A truck has been vandalized with an urge to visitors in Texola, OK.

named Chicken Scratch, because it looked like corn and was “tested” to see if it would fool chickens. This yellow, orange, and white treat is made primarily from sugar, corn syrup, honey, and gelatin, used to create a “mellowcreme.” This type of candy was very popular during the Great Depression, as it was cheap and easy to make, but it has stood the test of time, being one of the most popular Halloween candies in the 21st century. This confection has evolved in recent years to include a popular “harvest” flavor, as well as many unique flavors such as caramel apple, turkey dinner, hot dog and hamburger, lemonade, and cotton candy. The flavor has also been developed into other foods, such as Oreos, marshmallows, peeps, M&Ms, and Hostess Cupcakes.

Trick-or-Treating For children, the highlight of the season is going door-to-door, asking for treats while wearing a costume. No one is certain of the true root of this tradition, as there are various elements that may have developed from Ireland, Scotland, and Britain. It is commonly accepted that the tradition developed from

the practice of “guising” or “souling,” both of which involve going to houses in a disguise while asking for a gift, usually coins, food, or nuts and fruits, according to the Library of Congress. In North America, the first documented occurrences were from the early 1900s, in newspapers near Ontario, Canada. Children were reportedly “guising” in neighborhoods, and it later spread to areas of New England. The turn of the 20th century is when candy started to make its way into the holiday, with the increase in mass-produced confections, but it was still not common and was intermixed with fruits and nuts. This introduction started gaining traction just in time to be put on hiatus during WWII, but when trick-ortreating was hosted again at the end of the 1940s, candy began to play a large part. Companies started producing more small, single-packaged candy, known modernly as “fun size” candy, to make it more convenient for households to hand them out. Now, candy is often considered the only acceptable “treat,” and the practice or trick-or-treating is a staple to the holiday.

A shack leans sharply, waiting for a breeze or a final push in Texola.

The Vista

Tuesday, Oct, 24, 2023

POP CULTURE

Swift never goes out of ‘Style’ with ‘1989 (Taylor’s Version)’ Matilda Harvey Copy Editor

Nine years ago, on Oct. 27, 2014, Taylor Swift released her highly anticipated fourth album, “1989.” “1989” was Swift’s first foray into the world of pop music, with sixteen tracks full of synth and bass. The album would go on to win Album of the Year and Best Pop Vocal Album at the 58th Annual Grammy Awards; Swift became the first woman to win Album of the Year twice with “1989”, and eventually the first woman to win Album of the Year thrice with “folklore” in 2021. Oct. 27, 2023 will see the release of “1989 (Taylor’s Version)”, the fourth installment of Swift’s fight to own the masters to her first six albums. This release will have 21 tracks, including the 16 original tracks and five vault tracks. The vault tracks, which are all labeled “(From The Vault),” were unveiled through a Google-based word scramble. Users had to individually solve 89 puzzles, with a worldwide total of 33 million required to fully unlock the vault. Only four titles were revealed this way: “Say Don’t Go,” “Now That We Don’t Talk,” “Suburban Legends,” and “Is It Over Now?.” The final vault track, number 17 on the album, was revealed on Swift’s social media; it is titled “SLUT!” The 2023 re-recording of “1989” was announced on Aug. 9, 2023, the final night of the first American leg of Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour. It was at SoFi stadium in Los Angeles, the site where the “Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour” movie was filmed. The film opened Oct. 13, 2023, with a premiere on Oct. 11. For a full review of “Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour,” go to ucentralmedia.com.

Taylor Swift will release “1989 (Taylor’s Version) on Oct. 27. (REPUBLIC RECORDS/ PROVIDED)

Fall into foliage during autumn in Edmond As Oklahoma weather prepares to take a deep plunge into a cold snap, the hills surrounding Edmond are coming alive with bright hues of orange, yellow and brown. Go see the sights before the wind puts an end to the foliage for 2023. (TROY ISBELL/THE VISTA)

LISTEN UP FOR LIVE MUSIC

Roosevelt performs Oct. 23 at Beer City Music Hall. (BMG/PROVIDED)

OCTOBER Roosevelt, Oct. 23, Beer City Music Hall, 1141 NW Second, beercitymusichall.com Dax, Oct. 24, Beer City Music Hall, 1141 NW Second, beercitymusichall.com Jonathan Bree, Oct. 24, Resonant Head, 400 SW 25, Suite A, resonanthead.com Jacquees and Nick Lavelle, Oct. 24, Tower Theatre, 425 NW 23rd, towertheatreokc.com Brian Jonetown Massacre, Oct. 25, Beer City Music Hall, 1141 NW Second, beercitymusichall.com

Born Without Bones, Oct. 25, Resonant Head, 400 SW 25, Suite A, resonanthead.com Drake White and William Clark Green, Oct. 26, Beer City Music Hall, 1141 NW Second, beercitymusichall.com Amyl and the Sniffers, Oct. 26, Tower Theatre, 425 NW 23rd, towertheatreokc.com David Rosales, Oct. 26, Resonant Head, 400 SW 25, Suite A, resonanthead.com Death From Above 1979, Oct. 27, Beer City Music Hall, 1141 NW Second, beercitymusichall.com The Odyssey’s Thriller Night, Oct. 27, Resonant Head, 400 SW 25, Suite A, resonanthead.com Crystal Methyd, Oct. 27, Tower Theatre, 425 NW 23rd, towertheatreokc.com My So Called Band, Oct. 28, Tower Theatre, 425 NW 23rd, towertheatreokc.com Tanukichan, Oct. 28, Ponyboy, 423 NW 23rd, ponyboyokc.com Leah Senior, Oct. 28, Resonant Head, 400 SW 25, Suite A, resonanthead.com Est Gee, Oct. 29, Beer City Music Hall, 1141 NW Second, beercitymusichall.com The Church, Oct. 29, Tower Theatre, 425 NW 23rd, towertheatreokc. com Arizona, Oct. 31, The Jones Assembly, 901 W. Sheridan, thejonesassembly.com NOVEMBER Parker Millsap and Rosie Tucker, Nov. 2, Resonant Head, 400 SW 25, Suite A, resonanthead.com