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The Gateway February 14, 2024
NEWS FEBRUARY 14, 2024 PAGE 2
Allegations of discrimination and toxic environment slam UNO Housing and Residence Life program JENNA JANSSEN NEWS EDITOR The University of Nebraska at Omaha’s Housing and Residence Life department is under scrutiny following allegations from a former resident assistant (RA) claiming racism, discrimination, and a toxic work environment within the Dodge Campus organization. In a statement shared on Instagram, Mar Toussaint, the former RA, described his experience as a “nightmare” and expressed reluctance to speak out initially. “I’ve debated hours and days about posting this because I just wanted to cleanse myself from this nightmare I’ve been living through for the past months of job and home life,” Toussaint wrote. “I realize the only way I can really start healing is by telling people about my experience.” Toussaint said that even before taking the RA position, he was warned of a possible history of discrimination. “I had suspicions about the housing residence life here at UNO even before applying for the position,” Toussaint disclosed. “Numerous sources, including former RAs, had shared stories of rooted racism and discrimination within the program.”
Despite initial optimism sur“There’s just like no traction or rounding promises of diversity initiaposts from higher-ups or staff canditives, Toussaint’s experience quickly dates or any of these residential staff turned sour. about this.” “It felt like they were going to The Gateway reached out to change. It was changing. It was like a Trent Fredericksen, Director of Housnew leaf,” he said. “I just wanted to stay ing & Residence Life, with questions in the good, stay in the clear. Just want- surrounding the accusations. Fredered to keep my head down a little bit, icksen stated he cannot acknowledge which was already a any situation inred flag.” volving employees Toussaint due to personnel claimed numerous policies that prohibit instances of being any commentary on unfairly targeted employment issues. and accused without Toussaint iterevidence. ates that the point of “I was pulled shining light on the into questioning issues he faced is not because people on to call out UNO but the [housing] staff to push the univerwere saying that sity to be better and I was a bully, that improve its relations they felt threatened with the students. Maverick Village dorms. Photo courtesy of UNO by me,” Toussaint said. “I was accused “I feel like sometimes society of having marijuana in my dorm... ...it fails to realize that accountability is not got to the point where I started to feel necessarily a bad thing. It’s like, hey, threatened within my housing.” this is what’s going on. And this is how In addition to personal attacks, it’s impacting your people, the people the former RA claimed that the dethat you say you will serve as your stupartment posessed a pervasive culture dents.” of silence and a lack of support from Fredericksen stated in his program administrators. correspondence that resident assistants
participate in sensitivity training every year before students move into campus dorms. “RAs participate in sessions focused on understanding identity and intersectionality, as well as ways to facilitate intergroup dialogue. All RA staff are trained about recognizing acts of discrimination or bias, and how to respond appropriately to these incidents when they occur. We have also utilized faculty and staff who are trained to teach about microaggressions, specifically, to provide the RA staff with insight and awareness about how to recognize microaggressions in their community.” Fredericksen said that in recent years a survey had been sent out to Dodge campus residents every fall to gauge how Housing and Residence Life is meeting and supporting student needs on campus. “Residents offer responses indicating the degree to which they agree or disagree with statements such as “Housing and Residence Life at UNO promotes and celebrates diversity” and “Housing and Residence Life at UNO fosters an inclusive and welcoming environment.” The percentage of our residents who responded in disagreeSee HOUSING on page 4 MANAGER OF STUDENT PUBLICATIONS
EDITOR IN CHIEF
SPORTS EDITOR
andrewsmith@unomaha.edu
inielsen@unomaha.edu
Andrew Smith
Isaac Nielsen
The Gateway is published by the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s Publications Committee both online and in print.
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CULTURE EDITOR
Advertising inquiries should be directed to the Marketing Manager or Manager of Student Publications. Other inquires should be directed to the Editor in Chief.
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Stephen Pura
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The Gateway is funded by both advertising revenue and student fees as allocated by Student Government.
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PHOTO EDITOR
Copyright 2024. All rights reserved. No material here may be reproduced without permission of the Editor in Chief.
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Jenna Janssen
Daytin Inserra
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News
Business students knock out the J-term in Slovenia
The Gateway February 14, 2024
Omaha World-Herald exits downtown Omaha ANDREW SMITH EDITOR IN CHIEF
College of Business Administration students and their chaperones bring the big “O” to Slovenia. Photo courtesy of Patricia Meglich
JENNA JANSSEN NEWS EDITOR A group of 19 students from the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s College of Business Administration embarked on a journey to Slovenia this January as part of a three-week course focused on exploring business practices and sustainability initiatives in the European nation. Led by Dr. Patricia Meglich and her colleague Dr. Kelsey Medeiros, the excursion provided students with a comprehensive understanding of international business operations and sustainability strategies. The trip, organized in collaboration with the university’s international studies office, was designed to offer students a rich study abroad experience while earning course credits equivalent to a standard semester elective. “They [International Studies] coordinate everything from these rather shorter-term programs to students who would want to do a whole study term abroad that we have partnering
universities where you would go and spend the entire semester there.” During their stay in Slovenia, students delved into various industries, visiting prominent companies such as Krka, a leading pharmaceutical company renowned for its innovative automation technologies. Students got to witness sustainability practices firsthand, students were captivated by the commitment to environmental responsibility. “Many students had never been in a factory before,” Meglich remarked. “And then pharmaceuticals, it’s it was highly automated.” The trip emphasized the importance of sustainability in business operations. Students participated in workshops on circular economy practices, facilitated by local experts, and engaged in hands-on activities aimed at devising sustainable solutions. “We were very fortunate there,” Meglich said. “We had a workshop at the university, and it was facilitated by a gentleman who runs this circular economy institution.”
Reflecting on their experiences, students expressed enthusiasm for the immersive learning opportunities and cultural exchanges facilitated by the trip. “It’s different to see things through the eyes of someone who’s never been there before,” Meglich, a summer professor at the University of Ljubljana, said. Meglich collected feedback from students after the trip. “The experience in Slovenia is one that I will remember for the rest of my life. I could not have dreamed up a better experience,” one student responded. “This opportunity connected me with peers from my very own city and individuals far across the globe, each all bridging a relationship that will impact my personal and professional growth in a truly meaningful way,” another said. Early in the year study abroad trips may be changing as the future of the January term is uncertain.
The staff of the Omaha World-Herald are without an office after moving out of their sky-scraping downtown building last month as renovations are completed for a space in a West Omaha business park. Since its inception 138 years ago, the legacy publication has operated out of Omaha’s downtown. The paper has called 1314 Douglas St. home since 2006 when editorial staff moved out of the art deco World-Herald Square offices and former newspaper plant. “I think it’s the end of an era,” Samantha Pastorino, University of Nebraska at Omaha journalism student said. “Downtown is where all the businesses are. To see them move to a different part of town is a little heartbreaking.” Staff downsizing efforts at the hands of corporate owners Lee Enterprises have led to significant reductions in necessary floor space. While only one of 16 floors were occupied by the Herald, staff members said that even that newsroom was starting to feel empty. “When I started in like late 2021, there were about 65 full time employees and I think there are 36 full time employees now. That includes editors, sports, news, copy editors and presentation,” Molly Ashford, public safety reporter, said. “On news reporting alone there’s about 10 or 12 of us.” New digs for staff to write, edit and record are set to be available sometime in early March, and are said to be located within a business park off of 120th and Blondo streets. Until that time staff are expected to work remotely or out of hoteling stations that have been set up in the paper’s printing press building, the John Gottschalk Freedom Center. Conference spaces in the printing facility have been
News
The Gateway February 14, 2024
HOUSING
OMAHA WORLD-HERALD
ment to those prompts – 3.3% and 2.3%, respectively - was lower this past fall semester than it’s ever been on past surveys,” Fredericksen said. “We recognize there is always room for growth and learning in how we meet student needs, but we have been very intentional as a department over the past few years to meet the needs of the wide array of identities, experiences, and backgrounds our residents bring into the housing community. The feedback we received from residents this year shows that we continue to move in a positive direction as a department.” Despite statistics suggesting growth, Toussaint expressed pain felt during his time as an RA. “No job is worth sacrificing your mental and physical health,” Toussaint said. “Housing and Residence Life needs to do better at protecting their RAs and fostering a supportive work environment.” Any updates to this story will be posted on Instagram @thegatewayuno.
transformed to accommodate limited amounts of staff to work flexibly from 14th Street and Capitol Avenue. Reporters seemed less than excited about the move, but Omaha World-Herald Reporter and Gateway External Adviser Chris Burbach shared some restrained optimism about the relocation. “I suspect I’m going to like it more that I had thought,” Burbach said. Although positive about a new space, Burbach expressed a desire to stay downtown. What was once a short walk from the downtown office, trips to City Hall, the Douglas County District Court, Omaha Police Department Central Headquarters are set to become nearly 10-mile trips from the paper’s new location. Omaha’s population continues to grow every year, and westward regions continue to fill out with more housing and businesses. The new location will be located closer to Elkhorn and developments on Omaha’s borders.
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FAFSA fiasco: Why getting financial support has been so hard
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JENNA JANSSEN NEWS EDITOR In recent weeks college students across the nation have been experiencing significant delays in the processing of their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) forms, leaving many in a state of financial uncertainty and frustration. The delays have sparked concerns among students, parents and university administrators alike. The FAFSA is a way for students to access federal financial aid, including grants, loans and work-study opportunities. However, the Federal Student Aid office announced that the processing of FAFSA forms will be delayed until mid-March. Since colleges will not receive FAFSA results until March, financial aid offers will be delayed until April or May The U.S. Department of Education said the delays are due to them having to update the tables used in the student aid index, replacing the anticipated family contribution to accommodate for inflation. This update, mandated by the bipartisan FAFSA Simplification Act of 2020, was overlooked in the implementation of the new form, leading to significant delays in processing. The application process for FAFSA was itself difficult, as various technical glitches within the FAFSA application system delayed its opening to January instead of the traditional Oct. 1 opening day. University officials and higher
education groups are also feeling the impact of the delays, as they grapple with the challenge of supporting students facing financial uncertainty. In a recent statement, nine higher education organizations, including the American Association of State Colleges and Universities, urged institutions to extend their enrollment, scholarship and financial aid deadlines beyond the usual May 1 deadline. “We encourage colleges and universities to provide flexibility to students and families as they consider their offers of admission and financial aid,” said a statement by the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators that was posted online on Jan. 31. “We all want students and families to have the time they need to consider their financial options before making enrollment decisions.” In response to mounting pressure, the U.S. Department of Education has pledged to act. They announced plans to deploy additional resources including federal student aid experts to support under-resourced schools. Additionally, the department will set up a financial aid “concierge service” for schools to access assistance promptly. $50 million in funding will be provided to nonprofits for technical support.
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Student Activities Budget Commission: What it is and why it matters HANA MILLER SENIOR STAFF WRITER The University of Nebraska at Omaha boasts a rich campus culture and representation of its diverse community with events to match; however, such events require funding to occur. Deciding which organizations will receive funding is the job of the Student Activities Budget Commission (SABC). As outlined on the university website under Campus Policies “Request of
News
University Program and Fund A Fees,” The commission consisting of nine students and three faculty members oversees the yearly process of allocating funds while staying within the annual budget created by the Student Government. SABC, as outlined by university procedures, oversees the process that provides funds called Fund A dollars (money intended for student activities that are managed by students) for three categories of student organizations: student government (and any organization student government oversees), student programming (Maverick Productions), and the student publication (the Gateway). After many meetings and hearings with student leaders presenting and being questioned on their funding priorities, justification and past spending history, the commission will create the final allocation proposal and submit this to the Student Senate for approval. Once approved, this document is sent to the Vice Chancellor for Division of
The Gateway February 14, 2024
Student Success and the Chancellor for approval, and then is voted on by the student body during Student Government Elections. Student Government Agencies are allowed to request additional funds, as are Maverick Productions and The Gateway. The granted funding must not be used for academic programs or related functions. Offices receiving this funding must benefit a broad range of the student population. This funding directly impacts not only the university students and their quality of campus life and events, but also the culture-shaping the legacy of what it means to be a Maverick. This is why the SABC has such a crucial role. As the hearings and presentations progress, the Gateway will be covering the proceedings which will determine salaries, operating budgets, capital expenditures of all groups receiving fee funding, tentative allocation coverage and any other factors that may impact the participating groups.
SABC schedule and important information: • •
• •
All meetings will be held in Milo Bail Student Center Nebraska Room Meetings are public but only those presenting and the Student Senate may speak besides open forum at the start of meetings Feb. 27th, 2024- SABC Budget Presentations (5 p.m. to 10 p.m.) March 5, 2024- SABC Committee Deliberations (5 p.m. to 10 p.m.)
Order of presentations: 1. The Gateway 2. Maverick Productions 3. Student Government Association
Maverick Quartet plays to heal at Buffett Cancer Center Visitors listen attentively as the Maverick Quartet performs. The quartet promotes a harmonious link between music and the pursuit of medical breakthroughs. The event takes place weekly at the Fred and Pamela Buffet Cancer Center. Photo by Stephen Pura Maverick Quartet cellist Gregory Clinton resonates heartfelt melodies at the Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, providing a soothing ambiance for patients and staff alike. Photo by Stephen Pura
DAYTIN INSERRA PHOTO EDITOR The Maverick Quartet has been involved in creating a curriculum for Nebraska Heartbeats, a platform for musicians to connect with their community to foster relationships and create a positive impact. Nebraska Heartbeats seeks to connect with patients experiencing various stages of dementia to gather research through playing orchestral music. “If you play an instrument or are great at percussion and you’re interested in the sciences please reach out,” Mary Perkinson, distinguished associate professor and musician in the Maverick String Quartet and Healing Arts Quartet-in-Residence, said. “We can find a research role or a music playing role for you in the project.” The quartet of UNO faculty members has performed at the Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center since 2018.
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Upcoming events and weekend recap on page 10.
SPORTS FEBRUARY 14, 2024 PAGE 7
Omaha cheer team makes history at UCA College Nationals
The Omaha cheer team after wrapping up their UCA nationals event. Photo courtesy of the Omaha cheer team
ISAAC NIELSEN SPORTS EDITOR ORLANDO, Fl. - Under the spotlight of the Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA) College Nationals cheer competition this January, the Omaha Mavericks not only ranked among the best squads in the country in their event but made a bit of history while doing so. Omaha made it to the national stage for the first time in the team’s history where they competed in the Game Day Open Coed division. The Mavericks finished seventh
in their division, posting a final score of 86.4. Though their routine lasted just over three minutes, the process to get to Nationals involved months of preparation. “It’s a long process to get to Nationals that begins soon after tryouts,” says coach Samara Phillips. “It involves attending camp, having choreography sessions, and adding additional practices. The team was also responsible for fundraising to pay for travel.” Phillips explains that one of the most important aspects of the team’s
training for the event was attending college camp in Wisconsin last summer, where the Mavericks learned new stunts and other material. The Mavericks were faced with more adversity than just the unfamiliar territory. Phillips says the team’s ability to defy the typical standard of experience is what makes them so unique. “We aren’t like other schools, who compete with cheerleaders who have been in the sport since they were children. Nearly half of our team had little to no experience. We are also the only college cheer team to represent the state of Nebraska.” Phillips reiterated that diversity in experience when recounting her favorite memory from the trip, which she describes as “seeing 25 athletes, all with different levels of experience, coming together and having the time of their lives on the mat.” Omaha cheerleader Liam Kizer says he noticed that the electric atmosphere had a profound effect on his team. “From the moment we touched down in Orlando, you could feel the team’s energy shift from nervous to a more intense feeling of excitement… I felt like I had never heard us move and yell so confidently together than in those three minutes that we were on the mat.” Kizer said he and the team are already looking forward to next year’s competition. “Overall, I really can’t put into words how proud I am of my teammates,” Kizer said. “I’m excited to see how the team will perform next year now that we’ve got the first-time jitters out of the way.”
Omaha baseball looking to start hot with Friday’s season opener ISAAC NIELSEN SPORTS EDITOR Much of the difference in Omaha baseball’s 21-28 overall record last season was created thanks to a 1-6 season-opening road trip against a pair of formidable opponents in UCLA and Fresno State. While the opposition wasn’t exactly the “Bad News Bears,” it was still a tough way for the Mavericks to get the ball rolling. This year’s rendition of the road swing to open the season is no cakewalk either. The Omaha Mavericks are scheduled to open the year with ten straight road games, including series against Arkansas State and Long Beach State. A grueling stretch of travel will briefly be put on hold for the home opener against Portland on March 6, with Tal Anderson Field remaining empty for more than a week longer. With Omaha hoping to improve upon last season’s two-game tournament run, they’ll have to get more wins on the road. The 2023 Mavericks went 14-7 at home, but just 7-19 as visitors. This year they’ve seen a decrease in their home schedule, as just 18 of their 51 games are scheduled to be played within the friendly confines of Maverick Park. Eight of those will make up the team’s only real home stand mid-April. After splitting two games with Nebraska and two with Creighton last season, Omaha will again have a chance to stake their claim as the “big brother” school for baseball in Nebraska. The Mavericks will only get one shot at the Huskers in Lincoln on March 19, but are set to face the Bluejays three times over the course of the season. Omaha will be forced to restock the left side of the infield this year as 3B Mike Boeve and SS Devin Hurdle both turned pro after last season. Over the summer, Boeve became the highest draft pick in Mavericks history, which stretches back to 1947.
The Gateway February 14, 2024
School spirit runs rampant as Mavericks hockey sweeps at Baxter
Sports
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ISAAC NIELSEN SPORTS EDITOR Omaha hockey was perfect in a two-game sweep of Minnesota Duluth on Feb. 2-3, picking up 5-1 and 4-3 wins at Baxter Arena. The Omaha Mavericks were able to pull away with three goals in the third period to win Friday night’s contest 5-1. They capitalized on the newfound momentum Saturday night, winning a thriller in regulation, 4-3. Kirby Proctor and Zach Urdahl each notched goals in both games. Attendance at Baxter Arena eclipsed 7,000 fans both nights, and Saturday’s game was played in front of a sellout crowd of 7,802. The energy in the building was a factor that wasn’t lost on head coach Mike Gabinet. “It was a great weekend for our team as we found a way to earn six points,” Gabinet said. “The crowd and student section was electric both nights at Baxter. It is unbelievable to see the all student school pride.” After a weekend off following a pair of contests at Western Michigan, the Mavericks will return to Baxter Arena on February 23-24 to host Colorado College as they continue to jockey for positioning in the NCHC tournament. Omaha hockey fans will get four more chances this season to show their support at home, as the Mavericks are scheduled to finish the regular-season slate March 8-9 with a home series against North Dakota. As always, admission to The Bullpen student section is free for all students who display their MavCard at the entrance. Full game recaps from Friday’s and Saturday’s contests are available on the Gateway’s Instagram page @ thegatewayuno.
Omaha’s Tanner Ludtke skates around Minnesota Duluth’s Quinn Olson earlier in the thrilling overtime match. Photo by Andrew Smith
Friendly words are exchanged between teams. Photo by Mary Pritchard
The student section roared in a packed Baxter Arena. Photo by Daytin Inserra
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Sports
The Gateway February 14, 2024
Struggles from the field plague Omaha women’s hoops as team falls to conference rival
Omaha Junior Grace Cave plays a little keep away with a NDSU Bison. Photos by Isaac Nielsen
ISAAC NIELSEN SPORTS EDITOR Omaha women’s hoops (5-19, 1-10 conf.) wasn’t able to turn things around when it hosted North Dakota State (14-9, 8-2 conf.) Saturday, dropping their third straight contest 84-70. The Mavericks’ Summit League foes, winners of their last two games, surged early, attacking Omaha from both within and beyond the three-point arc en route to a quick 24-11 lead. By the end of the first quarter, though, a pair of jumpers from senior Polina
Nikulochkina helped the Mavericks cut the deficit to just eight after the opening frame. Omaha was able to carry that momentum into the second quarter, eventually tying the game at 31 apiece with just over five minutes left in the half. The two teams remained even throughout much of the period, but a late run from the Bison’s Abby Schulte, who tallied ten points in the half, stretched the NDSU lead to 48-39 at the midway point. The Mavericks came out of the locker room only to live at the free throw line for much of the third quarter
Junior Kennedi Grant takes a shot. Grant scored 13 points against NDSU.
- Omaha made 11 of 13 from the charity stripe in the frame. However, the home team wasn’t able to get much going from the field, and the two squads finished dead-even in the third quarter, leaving the Mavericks staring at the same nine-point deficit at the end of three. The fourth quarter was largely the same story on Omaha’s end, as the team’s struggles from the field persisted. Any potential momentum the Mavericks had gathered was dashed when Omaha’s Kennedi Grant and Morgann Gardner collided with one another in the defensive paint with 1:17
left in regulation. Neither returned to the game. Omaha held the ball as the clock ran out and the Bison came away with an 84-70 win. The Mavericks won the turnover battle, only giving away possession 10 times while taking it from NDSU 24 times. Despite putting up 10 more shots than the visitors, the difference in the final score was in field goal percentage - Omaha hit just 37.5% of its shots from the field while the Bison converted on 51.9% of their attempts.
The Gateway February 14, 2024
Sports
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Omaha athletics at a glance: Checking in on every team in action
Omaha hockey after beating Western Michigan on Saturday. Photos courtesy of Omaha Athletics
ISAAC NIELSEN SPORTS EDITOR With winter athletics seasons like basketball, hockey, swimming & diving, and track & field wrapping up, and baseball and softball just kicking off, February is one of the most hectic months of the college sports schedule. Thankfully, we’ve got you covered witha summary of where each team stands in their respective seasons. Baseball Omaha baseball will open their season Friday, kicking off a three-game series at Arkansas State. The trip south will represent the start of a 10-game stretch on the road before the Mavericks’ home opener on March 6 against Portland. Basketball Both Omaha basketball teams will resume action Thursday night. Women’s hoops will hit the road for a matchup at South Dakota while the men’s team will host South Dakota at Baxter Arena. The home matchup will kick off a three-game home stand for Omaha, who will then host South Dakota State on Saturday and Oral Roberts on Thursday, February 22, which will serve as senior night and the final home game of the regular-season schedule. Each matchup will be a
Mikhail Korkunov celebrates win over Montana State.
Mavericks competed in the SDSU classic on Friday.
crucial one for the men’s team as they battle for positioning in the Summit League conference tournament, which is set for March 8-12. On the women’s side, Mavericks basketball will face the same three opponents but on the road before finishing out the regular season with a pair of home games against Kansas City and St. Thomas. The games represent a chance for the team to gather some momentum heading into the conference tournament, potentially avoiding a first-round game played between the Summit League’s No. 8 and 9 seeds.
with five matchups scheduled at the Texas A&M Commerce Tournament.
Hockey After getting this weekend off, Omaha hockey will be back in action at Baxter Arena on February 23-24 for a ranked series against NCHC foe Colorado College. The Mavericks, who have been in and out of the national top-20 rankings all season, will then travel for a series at Miami (OH) before finishing off the regular-season slate against powerhouse North Dakota at home. Softball After opening the season last weekend with five games at the UNI Dome Tournament, Omaha softball will continue a grueling schedule with a six-game schedule in Tucson, Arizona for the Bear Down Tournament, which begins this Friday. The Mavericks will stay on the road the following weekend
Swimming & Diving After a lengthy, successful season, the Mavericks will begin to wrap up the Swimming & Diving season at the Summit League Championships, scheduled for February 21-24 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Maverick Bullets •
Omaha hockey picked up two points of a possible six over the weekend in Western Michigan. After dropping the first game 6-1, Zach Urdahl scored the game-winning goal to give his team a 3-2 win in overtime Saturday.
•
Omaha men’s hoops fell short Thursday and Saturday against North Dakota and NDSU, but still remain sixth in the Summit League standings as they begin to wrap up the season.
•
The Mavericks’ women’s basketball squad was unable to take advantage of a two-game home stand last week, hitting the bottom of the Summit League table before heading north later this week.
•
After kicking off the season last weekend, defending conference champion Omaha softball continued its hot start, winning four of its five games at the UNI Dome Tournament from Friday to Sunday.
•
Omaha men’s tennis won a nail-biter Saturday over Gonzaga while the women’s team came down to the wire but couldn’t clinch a victory over Central Arkansas. On Sunday, Omaha was able to beat Montana State at home while the Missouri State women’s team forfeited, giving the Mavericks a tally in the win column.
Tennis
After a four-game home stand for Omaha men’s tennis, the team will travel north for meets at Marquette and Eastern Illinois on Friday and Saturday. The following Saturday, the Mavericks will host Creighton before another lengthy road trip. Illinois State will host Omaha on March 1 when the Mavericks open Summit League play. Omaha women’s tennis is scheduled on the same road trip to Marquette and Eastern Illinois, but will then continue as “visitors” against Creighton on February 23. Then, the team will travel to South Dakota (Summit League opener) and to Nebraska before hosting Denver on March 9. Track & Field After competing at the Nebraska Tune-Up in Lincoln this Friday, the Mavericks are set to compete at the Summit League Championships, held in North Dakota on February 23-24.
OPINION
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FEBRUARY 14, 2024 PAGE 11
Pi Kappa Alpha Instagram post is insensitive and disregards Kendrick’s experiences STEPHEN PURA MARKETING MANAGER The Merriam Webster Dictionary defines pastiche as a “literary, artistic, musical, or architectural work that imitates the style of previous work.” Pastiche is imitating something as a sign of respect and as a conscious homage to the original. With pastiche, there must be a conscious understanding of what is in reference. A lack of understanding can lead to cultural appropriation. A misunderstanding of culturally significant iconography can be dangerous. On Jan. 20, University of Nebraska at Omaha fraternity Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) posted a recruitment graphic on Instagram. Displayed are seven individuals, presumably Pike members, posing in front of police cars and emergency response vehicles with flashing lights. The photo is edited to resemble the look of the Kendrick Lamar album “Good Kid, M.A.A.D City.” The individuals in the photo have their eyes censored as a reference to Kendrick Lamar’s original album cover. Using a similar font as the original cover, “Good Pike, M.A.A.D City Spring ‘24 Rush PI KAPPA ALPHA” is written out under the image. Without context the image posted by Pi Kappa Alpha seems to pay homage to the album, but context is everything. “They tried to parody Kendrick Lamar’s album cover, and honestly, it’s kind of messed up. They clearly do not get what it is all about,” Assata Loftin, a student seeking a Bachelor of Arts in Music, said about Pi Kappa Alpha’s mutilation of the record’s imagery. “Lamar’s cover is deep, talking about his life in Compton and all, and these guys
Photo courtesy of @unopikes Instagram.
just turned it into some joke.” Firstly, let us dissect the original context of Kendrick Lamar’s album cover. In the photo we can see Kendrick Lamar as a child sitting on his uncle’s lap, with Lamar’s uncle throwing up a gang sign related to notorious nationwide gang, the Crips. To the left is another of Lamar’s uncles and on the far right we see Kendrick Lamar’s grandpa. They sit in front of a table covered with many glasses on the table, but bottles that may not be seen at first glance are distinctly a baby bottle and a 40-ounce bottle of alcohol. “It’s not just music to me. This is a story about the youth and the people that they call delinquents in my city,” Lamar said in an interview with entertainment outlet Fuse. “You look in the background and you see a picture on the wall of me and my pops... that photo just says so much about my life and how I was raised in Compton and the things I have seen through innocent eyes. You do not see anyone else’s eyes, but you see my eyes of innocence trying to figure out what is going on.” “Good Kid, M.A.A.D City” is an album that discusses the life of Kend-
Photo courtesy of Aftermath/Interscope Records
rick Lamar as he grew up in Compton, CA. Over 12 songs, Lamar shares how he found that the pressures of a “Thug Life” led to the loss of his childhood friend. This album sparked conversations across America about “gang culture,” and what that really means. “Good Kid, M.A.A.D City” was released Oct. 22, 2012. That year, America faced fresh racial challenges with Trayvon Martin’s murder on February 26, 2012. Heightened conversations of racism in America surrounded Trayvon Martin’s death and sparked many new racial justice organizations including Black Lives Matter, Dream Defenders, and the Black Youth Project 100. These organizations would then unify under one umbrella, the Movement for Black Lives. The killing of Martin raised conversations and strained relations between Americans, leading to a heavily politicized nation. Many took to social media to express the frustrations they deal with in America. Others claimed that that they were crying wolf. This problem persists; we are doomed to the same past failings because many fail to acknowledge
the real-world problems of oppressed minority groups within America. For people to understand the struggles another is feeling is a challenging task in general. With the context of what was already starting to brew in America, let’s remember how “Good Kid, M.A.A.D City” focused only on the childhood and growth of Kendrick Lamar in Compton. Despite oppression, Lamar shared his truth on what it meant to be an African American in a major metropolitan like Compton, CA. For many this album is a milestone not only for Kendrick Lamar but for music in general. An artist had stepped into the limelight to add validity to a larger conversation. That brings us to today. How is his message still resonating? It’s been 12 years since the album’s release and the album has had its time in the spotlight to build a legacy. Loftin and others reached out to the Gateway expressing concerns over Pi Kappa Alpha’s Instagram post which appropriates imagery of a Black artist’s turbulent childhood. The creation is nothing more than a botched pastiche of Lamar’s cover. “I don’t know why they used such a serious album to promote their rush week in a ‘cool way’ but it’s just ignorant,” Loftin said. “I don’t think they meant to be mean or anything, but they ended up just showing they don’t get it at all.” Did members of Pi Kappa Alpha understand the context of the album? I wouldn’t say so, but we may never know. “Hi Stephen, unfortunately we won’t be commenting. I wish you the best on any further articles you write,” replied the president of Pi Kappa Alpha.
While it’s nearly impossible to predict the future, I thought I could give it
my best shot. After all, 2024 is the present, so what’s to come this year is realistically not that far off. I’ve gathered perspectives across the UNO campus on tech, political science, entrepreneurship, safety and fashion to give you the best advice and insight to make it a life-changing year. Gen Z is in the driver’s seat. We, as a generation are well connected, acknowledge each other’s strengths and are able to communicate in ways no other generation has seen before. “the limelight edit” is our experimental take on a culture magazine made by Gen Z, for Gen Z. -Culture Editor Vinny Nelson
Taking a chance can be scary, but it can’t
hurt you. Ishani Adidam, a student worker and an active leader of UNO’s Entrepreneurial Living Learning Community, gave her takes for anyone looking to become business and career savvy It starts by simply introducing yourself. “I’m introverted and I hate talking to new people, but constantly being in the mindset of ‘this will only benefit me’ and not looking at rejection is a negative thing. Even I’m scared of failure, but the worst thing that can happen if you introduce yourself is that the other person will hide and leave.” Adidam continued to say that being open to accepting critiques is a crucial skill for personal and professional growth. “We can all get in the mindset of having a good idea or business plan and being set with it, but having outside opinions gives you objective f e e d b a c k which can lead to you a better business or career plan.”
With an intense presidential campaign
just around the corner, Kianna Vrtiska, a UNO graduate student studying Political Science, gave her input on navigating a complex social landscape “Media is still really susceptible to misinformation or bias, so look for a variety of news sources that are centered. That takes initiative, which not many people will put in the effort to do so, but I wish they would.” Vrtiska points readers looking for help with local candidates and elections to BallotReady. org, a site which provides voters with “nonpartisan info on every candidate and ballot measure.” She says she found this resource through an Ariana Grande social media post, which brough Vrtiska to her final point. “The utilization of social media in politics and how they interrelate with progress in our high technological age is going to be interesting to watch. Gen Z is going to start running for political positions.”
Physical security will always
play an important role in your everyday life. Sydney Barton, a security officer at UNO, gave her insights on what to keep in mind when you find yourself outside your comfort zone. “Always be aware of your surroundings and what kind of crowd you’re around. Know your limits when you’re out, especially when you’re out drinking, so you don’t make stupid decisions.” Barton has been helping keep UNO’s campus safe for a year, and left this final piece of advice for students. “I never had any idea how much crime happens on even such a small campus. You should never look at someone like they’re a villain, but always be aware of what a person could do if you’re in a bad situation. Always maintain a calmness to you and don’t go into a situation expecting the worse. Maintain your composure and talk to the person that you feel threatened by and get to know what they’re thinking.”
Technology developments this year might have felt like they’ve come from an episode of
Netflix’s “Black Mirror.” An anonymous source who attended UNO and works on everything from data centers, software and electrical work had plenty to talk about. For starters, you can expect to see for developments in A.I., which is going to help with everything like camera improvements to further implementations in cars. “Big tech is moving towards the automobile industry faster than ever, especially with the amount of electronics that are going into electric vehicles.” and
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Beyond the continued rise of A.I., Apple’s new Vison Pro headset is slated to bring virtual reality to the mainstream tech industry will have a substantial impact on finance. This will be seen through the trending movement for using your phone as your primary wallet and banking method. “People are going to use cash less than ever, and there is going to be a push of subscription models rather than buying products or services outright.”
As for what’s to come in style this year, I’ve got you covered.
2024 is going to be about outward expression. With internet culture being a melting pot of trends and aesthetics becoming inexplicitly intertwined, clothing and fashion no longer subscribe to “what’s in” or “what’s out.” The concept of a trend ‘going viral’ has led culture to becoming so nonlinear that I believe fashion is more about a state of mind rather than a piece of clothing or accessory. There is no more of a specific guideline for fashion than what your own desire. If that’s dressing to the 9s every day, excellent! If that’s sweats and a hoodie, good for you! Personally, I will be sticking to my staples: jeans and a white T-shirt, wearing the same pair of tennis shoes until they are well-loved and sporting my favorite sweaters so much that they are synonymous with my name. To mark the new year, I’ll be rocking a ‘90s buzz cut. Don’t be afraid of switching it up, wearing colors, repping your favorite sport team, taking the afternoon to thrift or splurging on a new piece for your closet.
Are you tired of only seeing life and romance
on a screen? Well, I have the perfect advice for you just in time for Valentine’s Day, pulled from none other than HBO’s “Sex and the City.” Despite the show’s unrealistic portrayal of life in New York City, there are many lessons to be learned and shared from the beloved show, and I’m to break them down for you so that you can find your once and a lifetime romance.
Whether you are a girl, guy or somewhere in between, one of the most important aspects of dating is having a group of trusted friends to share love life details and ask for advice. Oftentimes, we find ourselves inside our heads without a sounding board to balance our internal thoughts. Sharing experiences with a private ear can validate if a date or relationship is healthy or if it’s a relationship to end before feelings get hurt.
Ready to bond with the gang?
With an intimate group of friends established, taking a chance on dates is essential! You never know what’s out there and who’s available. Ask a friend to set you up, or take a chance on dating apps. Be yourself, show your style, and be personable with your bio. Make definite plans for dinner or coffee and set the expectation that you’re looking for something more than a superficial relationship.
Looking for a place to meet?
Organize an afternoon out to Wonderbowl in Blackstone for letting (your love life secrets) loose.
Happy hour at Ponzu or drinks at Roast in Aksarben are the perfect places to break the ice.
Don’t be afraid to let yourself be revealed. Often, when in the early stages of developing a relationship, people keep their guard up. While this can be a healthy way of protecting yourself from heartbreak, it will never allow for a true sense of romance. It is one of the most critical rules in love that you have to let your inner self be relaxed and available—it’s when intimate details are shared, and inter-personal compatibility is tested.
It’s crucial to remain true to your life goals and aspirations. Never settle for a situation your heart doesn’t feel is right for you. No relationship should alter your personality, dreams, or previously established friendships. Romantic relationships are about supporting and uplifting each other. They are not meant to hold you back or make you feel less than. Your priority in love should be expressing yourself to the fullest, without fear of rejection or judgment.
Time for something romantic? Head over to Bonefish in Regency for a special dinner to treat your new boo.
Ready to take the final step?
Stroll through the Gene Leahy Mall and end your date with a sweet bite at Ted & Wally’s
In December 2023, two of
America’s most popular musical artists, Doja Cat & Ice Spice, graced Omaha’s very own CHI Health Center via The Scarlet Tour. The energy was absolutely electric when Ice Spice opened with her viral hits “Princess Diana” and “Deli.” The 23-year-old has undeniable stage presence and a promising career ahead of her. As a headliner, Doja’s “WYM Freestyle” and “Paint the Town Red” had the entire arena absolutely activated. As an artist for over a decade, Doja Cat deserves all the praises on her first headlining tour. Everyone in attendance was dressed in their best ‘Y2K’ attire, and you could feel a prominent sense of love in the crowd for womanhood, self-acceptance and pure joy for the talented female rappers. Ice Spice’s new single “Fart” is available to stream now, and you can watch Doja Cat’s set in VR on Meta Horizon.
TikTok vs. Universal Music Group’s
contract dispute continues to eat up as users across the globe begin to realize the catalogue’s missing presence, which include top artists across every decade and genre. The social media giant and the music business conglomerate could not come to a decision over royalty payments, citing differences in opinion over AI, content creation and value of art. This disruption has impacted artists and fans alike. UMG accounts for some of the app’s most used song snippets. There has been increasing value of TikTok’s social power over the music industry, which leads to exposure, chart hits and continued commercial success. Major label artists signed to the UMG family such as Billie Eilish, The Weeknd and Taylor Swift who have a strong following across all social media platforms will not suffer much, but it is unclear what longterm effects this will have on small acts signed to UMG who need support from Tik Tok’s social avenue. This gap in the market will free up room for Sony Music, Warner Music and other unsigned artists to find success before UMG’s market-dominating catalogue (presumably) reappears. Either way, this event marks a major change for the business of music.
PinkPantheress’ “Heaven Knows”is one of those rare albums that with each listen you
can hear different stems, sonic details and meanings. Hailing from the U.K., PinkPantheress is able to seamlessly blend various genres and styles—combing the rhythms of ‘90s R&B with the modern crisp timbre of hyperpop, while also telling a compelling story of love, life and loss. The opener, which also acts as the album’s thesis, “Another life (feat. Rema), is the perfect example of the album’s uniqueness. Notably, PinkPantheress’ vocals are effortless, yet deeply effective, as highlighted on “Feel complete.” The album is nothing short of a once-in-a-generation project and is closed out by the fan favorite “Boy’s a liar, Pt. 2 (feat. Ice Spice), which is a guaranteed crowd pleaser in the club.
There is so much to do in Omaha this weekend. Actually, let me rephrase that. There’s so much in to do in Omaha every weekend. No matter where you live or commute to in this city, there is action and life at every turn, but it’s not just the parks, restaurants and events that make this city lively—it’s the people to go to them! If you ever find yourself itching to meet some cool new people, check out these spots.
Walk through your favorite park
Remember who you once were New ideas are inspiring your compared to who you are now. soul. Don’t let procrastination The past and future are connected by present or perfection ruin the fun of creativity. Dreams are becoming Remember that blood reality, so be careful in is thicker than water. deciphering when you are asleep versus awake. Keep your enemies close and your family closer. Chapters are closing—is it You have the power to be legendary, the end of a series, or will so why do you doubt yourself? there be another novel? The choice is yours. Everything you want is right in front of you. Turn off autopilot and be Work to secure your future as you aware of how you deal desire without compromise. Don’t with pain. It is the first step to inner healing. let societal norms get in your way. Love is only as authentic as you Party like it’s your make it. It’s imperative that you last because it is. put pride and prejudice aside to go deeper. Material desires aren’t the answer right now. Secrets that you kept What once was is no more, but locked up have slipped out. don’t fret. Life is a revolving The only thing left to do is own your truth. door that holds nothing or no one permanent.
Hummel, Stinson, Memorial—you name it. Omaha is full of parks to relax at. UNO’s very own Elmwood Park, located between Dodge and Scott Campus, always has Maverick sprit running through the park.
Grab dinner with a close friend
Aksarben’s Inner Rail, Downtown’s Ika San Ramen and Blackstone’s MULA are staples in the social scene. Check them out with your favorite friend to catch-up, or invite a new acquaintance to properly get to know each other.
Take a scenic drive across the Metro
Nothing in Omaha is more iconic or full of sights than it’s streets. Dodge is the perfect example, spanning from downtown to Elkhorn and passing UNO itself, you can always find new stops and shops to explore.