UCO's The Vista, Jan. 30, 2024

“OUR WORDS, YOUR VOICE.”

Protestors to disrupt Stitt’s State of the State address

Sam Royka Editor-in-Chief

During a nationwide wave of youth activism reminiscent of Vietnam War-era campus protests, Oklahomans Against Occupation (OAO) plans to disrupt Gov. Kevin Stitt’s State of the State address, calling for peace and a ceasefire at the Capitol beginning 8:30 a.m. on Feb. 5.

Demands include justice in Gaza, open conversation, and a plea not to be ignored.

Peacefully protesting within legal rights, “we’ll be outside the gallery, chanting, marching. And then after that, we plan on hopefully being

able to talk to our senators, the state treasurer and even the Governor, if they allow us to do so,” said Yasmin Abueisheh, OAO’s vice chair of organizing, a high school activist.

For students and college employees alike, universities across the United States are experiencing tension and protests. Supporting causes like the climate crisis, equality, and human rights, youth activism is at the forefront.

During the beginning of her high school activist career, Abueisheh said, “being a minor did not mean that I was any less capable of doing what’s right and advocating for what’s right.”

Inner strength, combined with power in num-

bers, is a compelling facet showing the power of youth activism.

“Listen to Palestinian youth. They’re the voice of the movement,” she said.

Activism is not easy, as shown by something called organizer fatigue, aptly described in the title of a 2022 article by The Nation, “As the World Burns, Organizers Are Burning Out .”After a worldwide pandemic, climate refugees, and a wave of protests against police brutality, organizers could be feeling tired. However, Abueisheh had a message of hope.

“Don’t let people tell you that what we’re doing doesn’t work,” she said.

Continued on Page 4

Changes made by Oklahoma lawmakers put emphasis on education

Jake Ramsey Managing Editor

Oklahoma State Superintendent Ryan Walters is currently facing criticism after appointing prominent social media figure Chaya Raichik to the Oklahoma library advisory committee on Jan. 23, shortly after an Executive Order signed by Governor Kevin Stitt seeks to limit DEI offices across higher education institutions.

Raichik is the owner of popular right-wing social media account ‘Libs of Tik Tok,’ where she posts about an array of topics ranging from race and gender in schools to promotions of various Conservative political figures.

“Chaya is on the front lines showing the world exactly what the radical left is all about,” said Wal-

ters in a recent press release.

Despite Walters’ optimism towards Raichik joining the library advisory committee, many others in the Oklahoma government were not fans of the decision.

“She’s no particular authority over anything, she’s a real estate agent,” said UCO professor of political science Loren Gatch. “She just happens to be running ‘Libs of Tik Tok.’”

“Ryan Walters is a very performative oriented guy,” said Gatch in reference to the possible reasoning behind Walters recent decision to appoint Raichik who has no experience in education.

“He’s kind of an ideological showboater,” said Gatch.

After facing criticism for his decision, Walters posted a video to X, formerly known as Twitter, saying,

“We are going to continue to expose this agenda of the radical left.”

While Raichik doesn’t have experience in education, she did take to X last year with an edited video that was critical of a librarian within the Tulsa Public School system. This video would ultimately lead to a string of bomb threats to the school district.

Raichik’s role on the library advisory committee includes making recommendations and decisions on materials that will be offered in Oklahoma school libraries.

The decision by Walters to appoint Raichik comes shortly after an Executive Order signed by Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt with the intention of eliminating Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion offices on college campuses.

After Stitt signed off on the order

in December, Oklahoma joined Texas and Florida in their attempts to limit DEI offices in higher education. Stitt seeks to “defund discrimination” with his new program. This order will also not allow state resources to be allocated to DEI efforts on campuses.

“We’ll get a better understanding moving forward,” said UCO President Todd Lamb when discussing the reallocation of resources for DEI offices. “The deadline to comply is May, so in some respects that’s a short order. In some respects we have a lot of time.”

Lamb went on to discuss the process of working with other institutions in Oklahoma, as well as working with those at UCO to navigate a path forward.

Lamb looks ahead: plans stability and ‘movement’ for UCO

Jake Ramsey

Managing Editor

As he starts his second semester at UCO, President Todd Lamb plans to promote campus involvement, student enrollment and PhD programs at UCO.

“I love people,” said Lamb, when discussing his interactions with UCO students. “I like to hear their background and a little bit of their bios.”

Lamb went on to discuss the plans for the Spring semester, which included keeping students on campus, financial stability and boosting our enrollment numbers, which, as a university, has seen an increase from Spring 2023 going into the Spring 2024 semester.

“The charge I have from the regents remains the same,” said Lamb. “Financial stability, liability and sustainability on campus and morale.”

“Those are all separate, but intertwined,” said Lamb.

Enrollment on campus has been an issue for the past several years, but for the Spring 2024 semester UCO saw a boost of 0.5% for the

entirety of the university. While the university is up as a whole, the enrollment numbers for several colleges are still down.

Particularly in the College of Liberal Arts, which is still down 1.8% in comparison to the Spring of 2023.

“All of us are responsible for recruiting, for admissions, for retention,” said Lamb in reference to his cabinet and how officials at the university can work together to improve the numbers further.

“Our challenge is for that retention,” said Lamb. “That’s just ongoing.”

Lamb goes on to discuss how UCO can keep the retention with things such as creating a safe-campus, meeting students where they are, ensuring that UCO is accessible and affordable and making sure that there’s a good environment for students to grow.

The 2023 Fall semester also saw the introduction of a PhD program within the forensic science department that would allow students to get their undergraduate, masters and PhD all at UCO. Lamb’s goal is to continue that trend for other

departments on campus.

“I think that’s the momentum and the movement of UCO,” said Lamb.

He went on to discuss the history of UCO, how the campus is the third largest in the state and how UCO is the only school in the metropolitan area. Lamb said that with these monikers, once UCO has a PhD program in any discipline, it will begin to pop up in other disciplines.

“That’s just a part of the conversation, and the long-term vision and goals of the University of Central Oklahoma.”

UCO President Todd Lamb speaks with Vista editors. (JAYDON SIMS/THE VISTA)

Governor Kevin Stitt waves to state legislators from a stand. The address is set to begin in the morning on Feb. 5. (ALONZO ADAMS/ASSOCIATED PRESS).

Weekly Horoscope

Friendships, Instagrams, and LinkedIns all have one thing in common: the network. Mercury is taking you on a drive towards connectivity. This is your sign to embrace it before the New Moon if you’re manifesting success! Your song is “You Are Arrived” by SPIRIT OF THE BEEHIVE.

Your career is taking a turn for the best! A tenth house transit means your talents are being recognized by the right people. There is a possibility for blessings in disguise at this time, so don’t be afraid to look at it as redirection to a better path. Your song is “The Natural Part” by Horse Jumper of Love.

VIR GO

August 23- September 22

Mercury’s moves mean that you’re prepping for another upgrade: in the bright, fresh air of Aquarian energy, your everyday habits are even more important. How will you use this time to your advantage? Your song is “The Burned Down Dairy Queen” by Wednesday.

The moon in your sign midweek gives you just the boost to finish off work before Friday. A revolution revelation could come your way as Mercury sneaks into Aquarius, transiting your fifth house. It asks: how can you add more sparkle to your life? Your song is “Cheer Up, Chihiro!” by Ovlov.

AQUARIUS

January

Two Aquarian aspects take the stage this week, so expect some extra attention in the coming weeks! Someone might throw a party just for you. A chatty weekend moves into a Monday perfect for diving deep. Your song is “Changes” by Malice K.

Sam Royka Editor-In-Chief

Connecting with your dreamy energy via Neptune picks up this weekend with a twist. While not an ideal time for working out details, your creativity will be through the roof. Mercury in Aquarius has your DMs popping off over the next two weeks. Your song is “The Same Stars” by Karate.

As a sign ruled by inquisitive and talkative Mercury, this transit is especially strong for you: expect waves via unexpected shifts in your philosophy or worldview. Coupled with the New Moon later this month it could portend travel! Your song is “New Mess” by Helvetia.

The Moon wanes, and Mercury visits your eighth house. This energy is reminiscent of your own underwater world. This is a powerful time for healing and inner transformation: this process is highly intuitive and you’ve already begun. Your song is “Sink In” by Hello Mary.

Until the New Moon on February 9, the stars shine their light on you. Mercury moves into your seventh house, bringing waves of fresh newness to your close relationships. This is the time to tie up any loose ends! Your song is “Divine Giggling” by PACKS.

A wave of Aquarian energy sweeps over you this week, turning over a new leaf. The Last Quarter Moon asks how you can let go. Extra home and family communication may come in the next few weeks. Your song is “Water Recipe” by Floatie.

Your restless mind gets a boost and making plans with friends becomes even easier. Mercury in Aquarius supercharges the part of your chart used for making connections and writing discussion posts (the third house). Your song is “Halfway” by hi again.

Communications this week tie up loose ends in your life as Mercury finishes its transit in your sign. Overdue praise, reconciliation, or projects will land nicely now. Soon, you’ll be immersed in conversations about how to start this next chapter of your life. Your song is “Fast N All” by Enumclaw.

Happy Lunar New Year! In Chinese Astrology, we enter the Year of the Wood Dragon Feb. 10. This year promises abundance, growth, and overall improvement.

Students displaced after pipes burst in UCO suites

A burst sprinkler line caused by winter storm damage forced the relocation of 80 students from the University of Central Oklahoma University Suites Dormitory, disrupting dorm life as classes began.

Mid-afternoon on Jan. 16, the sprinkler lines on the east side of the building burst abruptly. Residents said that the bursts started on the fourth floor and extended to the lower floors, resulting in nearly one quarter of the 300 University Suites residents to be relocated to other rooms of the suites and other on-campus complexes.

UCO states uncertainty as to how this happened when they have internal heating to stop this from happening.

Dallas McCorkle, a fourthfloor resident, was not only directly affected by the flooding but also had to be relocated.

“The flood started right outside my door, so we had threeto-four inches of water in our room,” McCorkle said.

She expressed her frustration with the lack of accommodations by the housing department.

“I’ve had to call out of work and miss out on money because they gave us a single day to get all our personal belongings out and said if we didn’t then

they’d be at risk of being thrown away,” McCorkle said. “Which we found very unfair, and it was only one day I had so I could pack my entire room.”

Students did not have the option of moving to the west side of the suites or to other dorms on campus such as West Hall, the Quad, and the Commons, McCorkle said.. However, through direct communication with the director of housing and dining, she was able to secure a room for herself and her roommate.

“At this time, occupancy in the affected area is prohibited,” said the email. “While the repair and restoration work take place, affected residents will be temporarily re-assigned to an alternate room and roommate in an unaffected UCO residence hall space based on availability. Affected students’ accounts may be adjusted based on the length of time and location of the re-assignment and will reflect the lowest rate available between the two buildings.”

Residents said they are unsure whether their relocation is permanent or temporary, and that the communication from the university is limited.

Mercedes Cosby, a resident on the west side of the University Suites, recalled how she was notified about the flooding.

“I get a message from my RA saying, ‘Everyone evacuate the building.’ My hometown is an hour and 45 minutes away. Where am I supposed to go? She gave us very vague details but ended up telling us the building was flooded. We were in the cold for hours before we were told to come back.”

Many students were left to go to their friends’ dorms until they had enough information on what led to the evacuation, Cosby said.

In addition to relocating, students’ concerns shifted toward the ongoing construction their complex would face.

“I came back the next day and all of the machines were rumbling throughout the night. The sounds are driving us crazy because [the machines] are continuously turned on,” Cosby said.

Dust from the construction is also triggering the fire alarms throughout the building, leaving students unsure of the difference between a drill, a real fire, or the dust, Cosby said.

There is also a smell.

“The smell in here was really bad. When it first happened, before you even walked in the building you could smell it. There was toilet paper everywhere on the fourth floor. It felt and smelled like you were

walking through toilet water. It was really disgusting that they still allowed us in the dorm,” said Cosby.

As of now, there is no official estimate on how long the construction in the suites will take.

“We haven’t heard anything about reimbursement,”McCorkle said, highlighting thelack of communication between the residents of the University Suites and UCO. The dorm community found themselves relying on their resident assistants’ messages for updates.

“We never got an official email from UCO,” says Cosby. “Just group me messages from our RAs”

Adrienne Nobles, Vice President for Communications and Public Affairs at UCO gave KFOR a statement on Jan. 17.

“We did have a pipe burst in the University Suites, which did cause flooding and some damage to part of the building,” Nobles said in the email. “Approximately 80 of the 300 residents are impacted. They are being contacted now by UCO Housing staff and are being offered another room on campus while the damage is cleaned up and repaired.

The Vista will continue to cover this story.

UCO launches ‘Serve It Off’ program for parking tickets

Han

Jiwoo

Contributing Writer

In a proactive move to tackle the persistent parking issues facing the University of Central Oklahoma campus, university officials have launched the “Serve It Off” program.

Developed in collaboration with UCO’s Transportation and Parking Services (TPS), the UCO Student Association (UCOSA), and the Office of Community Engagement, the initiative offers students a unique opportunity to resolve parking citations through community service.

The genesis of the “Serve It Off” program can be traced back to the efforts of a former UCOSA president who recognized the need for tangible solutions to alleviate student frustrations with parking facilities. Collaborating with UCO’s community engagement office,

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the initiative finally came to fruition, marking a significant milestone in addressing campus parking woes.

UCOSA President Lauren Harman expressed optimism about the program’s potential impact.

“I feel like it’s a step in the right direction. It might not be a solution to every single parking issue that students have, but I do feel like it’s a step in the right direction,” she said.

Effective Jan. 17, the “Serve It Off” program allows students to offset the cost of parking tickets by dedicating a minimum of three hours to community service. Documentation of the service provided by partnering agencies must be submitted within 30 calendar days of the citation issuance date or appeal decision date.

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

One of the major grievances among students regarding parking infractions revolves around the enforcement mechanism, particularly concerning license plate scanning. Many students voice frustration over receiving tickets for minor infractions, such as improper parking. Despite the availability of a solution in the form of purchasing identification tags for front-facing placement, discontent persists among students.

By facilitating community service as a mode of ticket forgiveness, the initiative seeks to instill a sense of responsibility and civic duty.

Students are encouraged to explore the eligibility criteria and participation guidelines outlined by the UCO Transportation and Parking Services website for detailed information on the “Serve It Off” program.

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.

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.

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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.

Letters are subject to editing for libel, clarity and space, or to eliminate statements of questionable taste. The Vista reserves the right not to publish submitted letters.

ADDRESS LETTERS TO:

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Or, deliver in person to the editor in the Mass Communications Building, Room 131. Letters can be emailed to sroyka@uco.edu.

Shanice Hopkins Contributing Writer

Group plans protest of Oklahoma State of the State

Continued from Page 1

“If what we’re doing didn’t work they wouldn’t ban boycotting,” Abueisheh continued. “They wouldn’t censor us on social media.”

Tensions are continuing to grow throughout the country as people watch the Israel-Hamas war unfold on social media. In the last week of January, nonessential White House employees were evacuated while a pro-Palestine protest took place across the street. Presidents from Harvard University and the University of Pennsylvania have resigned during the tensions. At Columbia University, chemical attacks were used against pro-Palestine student protesters.

In Oklahoma, OAO is demanding open dialogue.

Abueisheh said that during the protest, OAO will “demand to speak with Governor Stitt. A lot of the time, state troopers will block off entrances into their offices. And so if that happens, obviously, we will comply and continue marching or protesting in the open area of the Capitol. But we do hope to speak with Governor Stitt and our state treasurer.”

The state treasurer, Todd Russ, has invested over $62.5 million in Israeli bonds. These bonds are a way for the state government to directly support Israel and their efforts against Hamas.

The United Nations continues to pursue a genocide case against Israel while the death toll rises in Gaza. Over 26,000 people are dead, 20 out of 22 hospitals damaged or destroyed, miscarriages are up by 300%, and journalists on the ground in

Gaza post images of grief; bodies of children are wrapped in white cloth. People are without medicine and starving. One father waited in ration lines for four days before resorting to grinding up animal feed to give to his five children. Stories like these are far from unique.

OAO is calling for justice and peace. Abueisheh points out that no Democratic or Republican candidates in Oklahoma have yet called for a ceasefire.

The group’s attempts to contact elected officials directly have thus far been unsuccessful. In early January, OAO published an Instagram reel showing their repeated attempts to contact politicians who did not answer.

“It’s a lot of talking without anything getting done and being ignored by our elected officials here in Oklahoma,” Abueisheh said.

They began by knocking on doors, then calling.

“We hit up Stephanie Bice’s office, we hit up Senator James Lankford. That first time we both got no response. James Lankford’s office told me that his office will be open January second and third, and then onwards from there. And so January third, I show up again to talk to Stephanie Bice and James Lankford,” she said.

The second attempt still ended with no contact from either official.

With Bice’s office, “you can, like, call the number before you go upstairs. And so I called, and they were like, oh, no, we’ll come down to you. So they didn’t necessarily want me to go upstairs into the office, which I don’t know if that’s normal policy. But that’s how I was treated,” Abueisheh said.

Two staffers came down and talked to OAO representatives. Abueisheh said OAO “expressed concerns, our disagreement with the representatives, policies, and the language that she was using. And they took notes. And they actually followed up with adding me on the representative’s emailing list,” Abueisheh said.

This was the entire known extent of actions taken by Bice’s office.

“For James Lankford. I went to their office, and no one was there until I pressed the intercom button. And someone on the phone answers like, ‘Hi, how can I help you?’ And I was like, ‘Hey, I’m sure that you guys would be in the office today.’ And essentially, she told me, like, ‘I don’t know who told you that. But that’s not true.’” The staff member then told Abueisheh to check the website, which she did.

“I go to the website, I file a request, no response, call the office again. And they say, oh, sorry, we didn’t get your email, can you do it again. And 20 minutes later, I get a phone call,” Abueisheh said. The worker on the other end of the phone offered to set up a meeting between her and DC staffers, but required an email first. Abueisheh said she sent the email, but still has yet to see a response. These events were now a full month ago and the story they tell is a familiar one among organizers. Abueisheh emphasized that there is “power in numbers” and encouraged people to speak to their representatives and will be hosting a Know Your Rights event in the near future.

OAO is on Instagram @okoccupation.

Demonstrators attacked with chemicals at Columbia University

Cameron Storck

Contributing Writer

Pro-Palestinian demonstrators were attacked with a foul-smelling chemical substance at Columbia University on Jan. 19.

In New York City, the Columbia University chapter of Students for Justice in Palestine gathered at the Columbia University’s Low Library for a “divestment-now” protest against Israel’s occupation in Gaza. Students attending the rally began to experience headaches, burning eyes, chest pain and nausea. Some members of the Students for Justice in Palestine group claim two disguised men sprayed their faces and clothes with a malodorant substance.

Dozens of students refused medical attention at the scene. However, eight students were hospitalized following the incident.

Organizers of the event claim the substance to be “skunk,” a non-lethal odorous liquid used by Israeli Defense Forces against Palestinian people in Gaza. The chemical has been described as

smelling of raw sewage and decomposition. Organizers also claim that the two men responsible for the attack pretended to be Columbia students and wore keffiyehs — headdresses that symbolize Palestinian strength — to blend in with demonstrators.

On Jan. 22, Columbia Interim Provost Dennis Mitchell wrote in a press release that later on the night of the protest, the school’s Department of Public Safety received reports of the attack and contacted the NYPD to investigate “what appear to have been serious crimes, possibly hate crimes.” In a campus email from that same day, Mitchell wrote that the alleged perpetrators had been banned from campus following the start of the investigation.

According to ABC, the NYPD reportedly acquired surveillance camera footage of two men spraying a light pole with the liquid before the rally began. NYPD and federal agencies have begun investigation into what led up to the attack.

The University of Central Oklahoma has many student-run events. UCO campus police were

contacted to discuss what response they would have had to this attack if it had happened on campus and what preventative measures are taken in regards to student-run events to ensure safety amongst students.

“We would respond in the same way we would respond to an active shooter situation,” said UCO Police Chief Julius Atkins

UCO’s Campus Expression Policy Statement holds that “Any person creating or causing a material and substantial disruption on the UCO campus may be subject to disciplinary action and/or legal action through local, state or federal courts.”

UCO currently uses A.L.I.C.E., an active shooter civilian response training program. A.L.I.C.E. stands for Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, and Evacuate. UCO community members can sign up for a class free of charge by calling UCO Emergency Management at 405-974-2219.

UCOPD maintains a tip line to report suspicious and unusual activity. To make a Broncho Five-O report, call 405-974-FIVE (3483) or email five-o@uco.edu.

Project SPEAK empowers students to seek help against interpersonal violence

Cannon Chugon

Contributing Writer

A proactive initiative aimed at protecting victims of interpersonal violence, Project Speak has emerged as a hub of support for students, encouraging them to speak and find the necessary help.

Carine Essomba, the project coordinator behind the group, emphasized its primary objective: to empower individuals and instill confidence in them to reach out for help.

“The goal is to help people feel empowered and gain confidence to seek help,” Carine Essomba said, highlighting the primary goal of Project Speak.

This initiative does not just advocate speaking up but actively assists in connecting these

students with counseling and support groups tailored to their needs. By providing a platform that promotes empowerment and assistance, Project SPEAK aims to break the silence surrounding these sensitive issues and create a culture of support and understanding.

Essomba further emphasized the approach after stating, “Victims of domestic violence often become a shadow of themselves, dependent on their abuser.” She then mentioned the availability of counseling resources and support groups specifically catered to students navigating through emotional, physical, or sexual violence.

The project’s emphasis on both empowerment and access to professional help shows its vital approach to addressing these critical concerns. With its mission rooted in supporting and uplift-

ing individuals, Project Speak has assisted over 500 students whether that be teaching them how to be active bystanders, or giving them a place where they are safe.

Project Speak also assists students in finding help for drug and alcohol abuse. Any issue a student is facing that takes a toll on mental, or physical health Project Speak will find a way to combat the issue.

Project Speak continues to expand its reach, fostering a community where individuals are not only encouraged to speak out but are also provided with the necessary tools and resources to seek help and healing. As it gains momentum, this initiative signifies a step forward in creating a safer and more supportive environment for college students facing these challenges.

Protestors carry Palestinian flags and signs emblazoned with messages at a protest calling for peace and an end to the war in Gaza (ASSOCIATED PRESS/PROVIDED).

Kelly Clayton Contributing Writer

That smell that greets commuters their way into or out of Edmond might be a major part of the Edmond economy. Even more important to some, it’s the whiff of a process that ensures the safety of pet food.

The Nestle Purina pet food factory, located at the southwest edge of Edmond at 13900 N. Lincoln Blvd, has provided the greater Oklahoma City area with these aromas for over 52 years. Headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, Nestle Purina is the largest pet food company in the U.S. and operates 21 factories nationwide, with the Edmond operations being one of the largest in the network.

“I guess they’re cooking dog food today” is the joke that Edmond restaurateur Vicki Muhs has heard numerous times as patrons come into her nearby restaurant, Gabriella’s Italian Grill & Pizzeria, 3601 S. Broadway. She explains to customers that, once inside, the smell dissipates. Appetites and business seem unaffected.

While it’s a non-issue for some, others in

the area find it a bit more pervasive.

“In the summer months, there are times that our members feel nauseous due to the strong smell,” said Stephanie Fowler, owner of Empowerhouse Gym, 14401 N Lincoln Blvd. “We work out with the doors open and it can be a challenge.”

According to the Nestle Purina corporation, the smell that catches your attention is likely tuna and salmon going through a cooking process called extrusion, which brings these ingredients up to a “kill point” temperature high enough to eliminate salmonella and other foodborne pathogens that could threaten the health of pets.

A concerning issue about the factory’s emanations would be the air quality in the area, but in the case of Nestle Purina, sometimes a smell is just a smell.

“DEQ does not regulate odors,” said the Department of Environmental Quality’s communications director, Erin Hatfield. She explained that if a complaint is received about a facility, DEQ will generally work to determine if there are issues at the facility leading to increased odors.

“Significant odors are sometimes a symptom of larger issues,” Hartfield said,

adding that the facilities have not received any violations in connection with the smells.

Even as some might think of them as stink merchants, others smell money. The Edmond factory employs more than 420 team members that “all make at least $30 an hour,” said the factory’s human resources manager, Letha Sloan.

The Edmond factory produces dry pet food including Purina Pro Plan, Purina ONE, Cat Chow, Dog Chow and Beneful. The team also partners with several local and national carriers to deliver pet food to retail customers and consumers.

Along with providing many local residents with gainful employment, the Nestle Purina team in Edmond makes donations to several local nonprofits, including Pet Food Pantry of Oklahoma City, and Honoring America’s Warriors. It also contributed a $20,000 donation to Palomar last year as part of Purina’s Purple Leash Project, a program designed to keep domestic abuse survivors and their pets together.

So, the next time you get a waft of dog food in the air, breathe easier; the smell contains more than a pet’s dinner.

Consumers push to make fast changes to fashion industry sustainability

In recent years, the fashion industry has executed a significant shift toward sustainable and ethical practices, reflecting growing environmental and social responsibility among consumers and industry insiders.

This movement sparked a reevaluation of traditional fashion practices, placing an emphasis on eco-friendly materials, fair labor practices, and the overall impact of fashion on the planet. As the demand for sustainable and ethical fashion continues to rise, it is reshaping the industry and empowering consumers to make more conscious choices about what they wear.

“As one of the top industries of waste generation, providers feel responsible,” said Uikyung Jung, assistant professor of fashion marketing at University of Central Oklahoma. “There aren’t enough protocols, standards or regulations in place for each step of the production process. The topic

of sustainability is controversial, because fibers, materials, et cetera can be seen as more stable, but many don’t consider what it takes to develop the more degradable materials, like pesticides or the required water to grow the materials, whereas manufactured fiber can be controlled even if not micro-degradable. Materials like wool and silk take up landfills.”

She also said that any manufacturers are adopting 3-D virtual prototyping technology to reduce waste during the design process.

“This industry produces so much waste for apparel and textile waste prototypes,” Jung said. “Every style item for every season requires two to three prototypes before getting approved and produced in bulk. This technology would replace some of the physical prototypes.”

One of the driving forces behind the rise of sustainable and ethical fashion is the increasing concern for the environment. Consumers are becoming more mindful of the ecological

of

and

Beyond environmental factors, ethical consid-

practices and social impact are now significant topics for clothing makers.

“It would start with unions,” said Jake Owens, a UCO art education student, “There’s got to be a policy at the government level.”

The Purina Pet Food factory at 13900 N. Lincoln Boulevard is a common sight for Edmond commuters. (VISTA/VICTOR LOPEZ)

Christeah Foster Contributing Writer

footprint of the fashion industry, from the excessive use of water and chemicals in garment production to the vast amounts of textile waste generated each year.

Labels like Cradle to Cradle and Bluesign assure criteria

sustainability, safety

impact are visible in their clothing, helping consumers differentiate sustainable fashion brands from others.

erations regarding labor

Garment workers create “fast fashion” products in Gazipur, Bangladesh. (MAHMUD HOSSAIN OPU/ ASSOCIATED PRESS)

Lamb appoints Wagnon as first vice president of athletics

Sam Royka

Editor-in-Chief

The new vice president of athletics has a deep history with the Bronchos and a love of athletics that stirs his soul. Bringing more than two decades of experience in sports, Stan Wagnon has been back home at UCO for three and a half years as the ninth athletic director in UCO’s 133-year history.

And now he is the first athletic director with a cabinet-level position, appointed the first vice president of athletics in the university’s history by UCO President Todd Lamb.

Calling his work a “family affair” and “labor of love,” Wagnon recounted a special memory. Years ago, when he was a student helping with public relations for UCO athletics, a basketball home game captured the sport information director’s attention. This meant Wagnon got to go with the wrestling team to their national championship.

“We happened to win,” he said. “And I was there covering that, and working alongside them, and I just remember, it felt so special to be a part of that experience and share in the joy of those guys achieving their dreams. But I’ll also always remember how the wrestling coach acknowledged me being a part of that and my presence there and he bought me a national championship ring when we got back.”

He said that being a part of the team — the family — at that moment, “made it real.”

This was just the start of Wagnon’s deep involvement with Broncho sports. It stands as a reminder to students and educators alike that memories like this can change the trajectory of an entire career.

“That trip always kind of stands out from the rest,” Wagnon said. “It was a great working experience. I got a lot of real life experience, even as a student, but then just the joy of winning and being able to celebrate that championship right there from the front row basically, was a special

memory.”

He said he hopes that student athletes understand the number of opportunities available to them at UCO. Though in his school years he worked in the department rather than being an athlete, opportunities still came. The experiences and opportunities he had as a student were both meaningful and career-inspiring. He said, “it really shaped who I’ve become.”

Wagnon encouraged students to make the most of their time at UCO by reaching out and taking advantage of the many available opportunities to explore, learn, and grow.

“To me, some of my fondest memories, even going back to high school, are memories that I made with my teammates, and our memories that I made on the baseball field or in the dugout, or on road trips. And so I hope that they will treasure those moments because there’s gonna come a day where they’ll, they’ll look back and realize how special it was to have those opportunities. It’s beautiful,” Wagnon said.

While some teams may be more historically highlighted in Oklahoma’s cultural canon, Wagnon knows UCO has always been important. “The Broncos have always been my favorite team. All my friends cheered for the Sooners or the Cowboys. And I was always that one kid that said, hey, what about UCO?”

Through the creation of the new position, Wagnon said Lamb “has recognized the importance of athletics. Giving me the title of vice president and allowing me to be on his executive cabinet,I think really is just an extension of that mindset that athletics plays a key part in UCO’s culture.”

His new position is one to “take pride in and take seriously because UCO does mean so much to me, and really my entire family,” said Wagnon.

Wagnon’s story with UCO is a true “family affair.” Both his parents graduated from the university, and his father, Skip Wagnon, worked at UCO for over 30 years, becoming the athletic

director when Wagnon was 12 years old.

Approaching the job and the department like family is a part of his philosophy that he hopes will make a great difference going forward.

“One of the things I remember growing up with my dad as the athletic director, was he led the department in such a way where those coaches all felt like they were family, and they enjoyed working together. And there was very little turnover,” he said.

Team building and resilience are a big part of his mission, as is filling the open positions in the department this semester. One open position deals with the finances of the athletics department. He is “trying to build a team of coaches and support staff that care about each other and enjoy working with each other, and that we can all pull for each other and enjoy and take pride in each other’s successes,” Wagnon said.

Thunder dominates the West after recent win

Perla Tovar Contributing Writer

The OKC Thunder are officially number one in the West after their win against the Portland Trail Blazers, however due to a misunderstanding the Trail Blazers are considering protesting to the NBA.

In the final minute of regulation, point guard Michael Brogdon was trapped in the frontcourt, prompting head coach Chauncey Billups to call a timeout, which wasn’t heard by the referees. Brogdon was called for a double dribble. Then, as soon as coach Billups rushed the court, he received two technical fouls for arguing and making contact with the referee. This resulted in an ejection and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander making one of two free throws, tying the game at 109. With two seconds remaining in the game, number 8, Jaylen Williams, scored what turned out to be the game-winning shot, making the final score 111-109 in favor of Oklahoma City over Portland.

Billups describes the incident as disappointing and has communicated their frustration to the league office about the final moments of the game, but he’s letting the 48-hour deadline to

file a protest over their loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder lapse.

Portland’s likelihood of succeeding with their protest within the NBA appears unfavorable.

Throughout the league’s history, only six protests have been validated, and none have been upheld since December 2007.

Struggling to adapt to the stream, sports fans are fish out of water

CJ Craig Contributing Writer

In August 2023, Nielsen’s Gauge Report said that only 30.2% of Americans were still watching cable TV, compared to 38.3% of users watching streaming services. Cable TV has been on a sharp decline since its peak in 2011. While this might seem great for the audience since they can pick and choose what to watch and when to watch it, fans of live sporting events have found themselves going broke trying to keep up with their favorite teams. Live sporting events have found themselves in new territory with the rise of streaming services. In the past, a user could just pay for a cable subscription, and depending on the package they could watch all of their favorite team’s games. However this style of broadcast had some limitations, like if a fan was located in a different market from their team. They would not be able to watch their team play since their market wouldn’t carry their game, only the local team’s game. This problem was expected to be

fixed with the introduction of sports livestreaming, but things have only gotten worse for the consumer.

For a viewer wanting to watch all of their team’s games for a season, this can become very costly as streaming services and broadcast companies are constantly shifting which teams they show on their network. A team can play on CBS, ESPN, Amazon Prime, and NBC all in a 4-week span, and each network varies on whether it’s available for a user to watch depending on their market. If a user pays for NFL+, they can watch all of their team’s games, but only if they’re in the local area’s TV market. They might expect that since they’re paying a monthly fee that they can watch every game for their local team, but blackouts prevent viewers from watching if a game is out-of-market. So if your team plays a road game, but another local team is playing at home, then the channel in the market gets priority. A viewer might also find that their team is playing on an entirely different streaming service like Amazon Prime or Peacock. This drives the

total monthly price up for the consumer just because they wanted to watch all of their team’s games. Blackouts and the number of streaming platforms required to watch have become problems across all major sports leagues. The NFL offers an alternative for viewers who want to watch out-of-market games with their NFL Sunday Ticket program, but this is on the costlier side starting at a $350 annual payment.

With sports becoming more expensive and harder to watch, more and more fans find themselves unable to watch their team. This poses a problem for sports leagues and advertisers since they are losing viewers to drive up ratings, as well as hurting the hardcore sports fan who doesn’t want to miss a single game. With streaming being more accessible than ever, it seems like a simple task to create a way for fans to watch their home team. But with sports being more profitable than ever before, broadcasters and sports leagues have no incentive to change the system to benefit the viewer.

UCO portrait of Stan Wagnon (UCO OFFICIAL/ PROVIDED).

Thunder players Jalen Williams, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander compete against Trail Blazers player Malcolm Brogdon (ASSOCIATED PRESS/PROVIDED).

Opinion: How social media giants control the content we see

Sam Kozlowski Digital Editor

It is likely you consume an abundance of news on social media platforms. However a recent change by Facebook is affecting the news industry in a negative way: removal of the news tab in some European countries.

Now that Facebook is not promoting the free press in all of Europe, some news sites have dropped over 99% in website referrals. In 2023,

traffic to news sites on Facebook fell 48% and fell 27% on X, according to a report by the Reuters Institute.

With over 2 billion daily active users and still growing. Facebook (Meta) is the largest social media platform in the world and owns the second largest traditional social media platform, Instagram (YouTube is a video service and WhatsApp is a messaging service although both are classified as social media apps and more populated).

Formerly known as Twitter, X’s emphasis on free speech has gained infamy for becoming a place where hate and misinformation/disinformation thrive. Recently though, Facebook also received public scrutiny for its algorithm failing to remove content denying the Holocaust.

With power over billions of people and many people’s main source of information, these companies have a responsibility to not mislead their consumers. Legally though, they can do whatever they want within the boundaries of the law.

The laissez-faire market of America allows social media platforms to make their own individual rules.

Despite the open market, corporatism may be on the rise as some of the biggest platforms such as Facebook and Twitter have worked with government intelligence agencies in the past.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation stated that it cannot direct non-government-owned companies, but can provide warnings. Further collaboration between the government and social media can either improve or suppress the free press.

Negative consequences on accurate information through social media platforms have already begun, such as the stopping of professional news promotion and deepfake AI generation. Given this first-time modern problem, cross-referencing information and verifying sources seem to hold more significance.

UCO adjusts to the age of artificial intelligence with new policy

Trinity Kohnen Contributing Writer

Last fall, the Artificial Intelligence Committee launched an AI policy to guide educators through this new tool and outline appropriate practices for students. As UCO is one of the few universities to publish an AI policy, this action allows students and faculty to use the tool fittingly with higher education.

The policy defines ChatGPT, AI’s limitations, academic integrity and much more. Connected to the policy is a list of AI websites for anyone to explore and resources provided to answer any more questions/encourage individual research on the topic.

Dr. Laura Dumin, the head of the AI Committee, AI coordinator and the director of the technical writing B.A. program, created the committee and policy to benefit students and keep UCO in line with the future.

“It was based on the idea that we needed to have something in place to help with academic misconduct issues but we also wanted to give professors the freedom to do what made the most sense for them in

their classrooms,” Dumin said.

In her classroom, Dumin explores the tool with her students and monitors how students are using it to create a policy that reflects UCO student’s needs and concerns. She said many students are diving head first into the use of AI, while there are others who are unamused by the new technology.

Dumin said that as long as her students are transparent with her on how it was used, she sees no issue and it can eliminate pressure to cheat.

In terms of the future of the policy and the committee itself, constant research will be done to stay up to date with the progression of this new technology. Members of the

committee will be exploring how they work and what makes sense for students.

When asked how and if policy will be altered in the future, Dumin replied, “Not yet. I think so much of what we’re trying to do is we’re trying to be forward thinking. We’re trying to make a policy that is wide enough to encompass change.”

Freshman Broncho chases 396 pound bench press world record

Nicholas Borghini

Contributing Writer

UCO freshman Carson Jobe is training to break a bench press world record before his 20th birthday in March 2025.

Jobe must bench press over 396 pounds in the 180-pound weight class to break the record.

With the help of his brother, Jobe based his training program on other successful powerlifters but modified it to be practical for long-term use.

“I saw that I was 50 pounds off from a world record, and the thought crossed my mind: What if all I did for the next few years was just focus solely on bench press?” Jobe said. “My current program avoids maxing out a lot. People think, ‘it’s kind of counterintuitive,’ but from my experience, I got more results having it planned and specific.”

Jobe started lifting in eighth grade when his brother forced him to go to the gym. He immediately fell in

love with training, especially bench press, and later joined his school’s powerlifting team.

As a freshman in high school, Jobe had been eating poorly and lost around 20 pounds. The weight loss put him at 112 pounds and an unhealthy 3% body fat.

He believes he had athletica nervosa, an eating disorder in which you try to become as lean as possible while overtraining. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Jobe began eating properly and saw serious strength improvements.

By his senior year, Jobe was bench pressing 330 pounds, setting a Kansas state record. Jobe set another state record in July 2023 when he bench pressed 341 pounds at his first USA Powerlifting meet.

Jobe believes that visualizing positivity is key to reaching his goals, allowing him to take risks and not be upset if a setback occurs.

“Each rep gets you closer to that goal, that’s what I think every time I’m in the gym.”

“Becoming A Media Master” is an opinion column on media literacy (TESS PETERS/THE VISTA).

UCO freshman Carson Jobe poses

ChatGPT is not self-aware, but this image of a robot suggests another possible future. (MICHAEL DWYER/ASSOCIATED PRESS)

Mountain Smoke rises during UCO Jazz Lab set

Oklahoma ‘newgrass’ group brings nearly 50 years of picking prowess to Edmond

LISTEN UP FOR LIVE SHOWS

JANUARY

The Crowe Boys, Jan. 30, Blue Note, 2408 N. Robinson, okcbluenote. com

Plain White T’s, Jan. 30, Beer City Music Hall, 1141 NW Second, beercitymusichall.com

FEBRUARY

Rupert Wates, Feb. 1, The Blue Door, 2805 N. McKinley, bluedoorokc. com

Taylor Williamson, Feb. 1, Bricktown Comedy Club, 409 E. California, bricktowncomedy.com

TobyMac, Feb. 1, Paycom Center, 100 W. Reno, paycomcenter.com

Casey Donahew, Feb. 2, Criterion, 500 E. Sheridan, criterionokc.com Chad Daniels, Feb. 2-3, Bricktown Comedy Club, 409 E. California, bricktowncomedy.com

Short Dogg, Feb. 2, UCO Jazz Lab, 100 E. Fifth, ucojazzlab.com

Cory Wong and Monica Martin, Feb. 2, Tower Theatre, 425 NW 23rd, towertheatreokc.com

Turbo Wizard, Feb. 2, Blue Note, 2408 N. Robinson, okcbluenote.com

Headspace Residency with Lennon, Original Flow, Siyirr, Psych the Wordsmith and Chanda Graham, Feb. 2, Resonant Head, 400 SW 25, resonanthead.com

Trilogy, Josh Sallee and DJ Gary Brown, Resonant Head, 400 SW 25, resonanthead.com

Tool, Feb 3, Paycom Center, 100 W. Reno, paycomcenter.com

Oklahoma City Philharmonic plays Brahms, Feb. 3, Civic Center Music Hall, 201 N. Walker, okcciviccenter.com.

Air Supply, Feb. 3, Riverwind Casino, 1544 Highway 9, riverwind.com

Hayden Haddock, Feb. 3, Beer City Music Hall, 1141 NW Second, beercitymusichall.com

Sam Morrow, Feb. 3, Blue Note, 2408 N. Robinson, okcbluenote.com

The Floozies, Feb. 3, Tower Theatre, 425 NW 23rd, towertheatreokc. com

Old Bulldog Band, Feb 3, UCO Jazz Lab, 100 E. Fifth, ucojazzlab.com

Natalie Syring and Eclipse, Feb. 4, UCO Jazz Lab, 100 E. Fifth, ucojazzlab.com

Michael Palascak, Feb. 4, Bricktown Comedy Club, 409 E. California, bricktowncomedy.com

Sugar Free Allstars, Feb. 4, Civic Center Music Hall, 201 N. Walker, okcciviccenter.com.

Archer Oh, Feb. 6, Resonant Head, 400 SW 25, resonanthead.com

Mipso, Feb. 6, Beer City Music Hall, 1141 NW Second, beercitymusichall.com

Explosions in the Sky, Feb. 7, Tower Theatre, 425 NW 23rd, towertheatreokc.com

Swim Fan, Feb. 7, Resonant Head, 400 SW 25, resonanthead.com Jared James Nichols, Feb. 7, 89th Street – OKC, 8911 N. Western,

89thstreetokc.com

Pitbull, Ricky Martin and Enrique Iglesias, Feb. 8, Paycom Center, 100 W. Reno, paycomcenter.com

Steph Tolev, Feb. 8-10, Bricktown Comedy Club, 409 E. California, bricktowncomedy.com

Portugal. The Man, Feb. 8, The Jones Assembly, 901 W. Sheridan, thejonesassembly.com

Alicia Villareal, Feb. 9, Criterion, 500 E. Sheridan, criterionokc.com

Zac Wilkerson, Feb. 9, The Blue Door, 2805 N. McKinley, bluedoorokc.com

Andy Frasco and the UN, Feb. 9, Beer City Music Hall, 1141 NW Second, beercitymusichall.com

Soft Hands, Feb. 9, Tower Theatre, 425 NW 23rd, towertheatreokc.com

Tadpole, Feb. 9, Blue Note, 2408 N. Robinson, okcbluenote.com

Brian Gorrell and Jazz Company, Feb. 9, UCO Jazz Lab, 100 E. Fifth, ucojazzlab.com

Adèle Wolf’s Valentine Follies, Feb. 10, Little Theatre at the 89th Street OKC, 8911 N. Western, 89thstreetokc.com

Dylan Scott, Feb. 10, Criterion, 500 E. Sheridan, criterionokc.com

Jason Boland and the Stragglers, Feb. 10, The Auditorium at The Douglass, 600 N. High, thejonesassembly.com

Sic (TX), Feb. 10, Beer City Music Hall, 1141 NW Second, beercitymusichall.com

Killer Muse, Feb. 10, Tower Theatre, 425 NW 23rd, towertheatreokc. com

Souled Out, Feb. 10, UCO Jazz Lab, 100 E. Fifth, ucojazzlab.com

Social Cinema and Jack, Feb. 12, Resonant Head, 400 SW 25, resonanthead.com

Mardi Gras on a Monday, Feb. 12, UCO Jazz Lab, 100 E. Fifth, ucojazzlab.com

Mickey Darling, Feb. 13, Beer City Music Hall, 1141 NW Second, beercitymusichall.com

Trousdale, Feb. 13, Tower Theatre, 425 NW 23rd, towertheatreokc.com

Ahren Belisle, Feb. 13, Bricktown Comedy Club, 409 E. California, bricktowncomedy.com

Lettuce, Feb. 14, Tower Theatre, 425 NW 23rd, towertheatreokc.com

UCO Jazz Ensembles, Feb. 14-15, UCO Jazz Lab, 100 E. Fifth, ucojazzlab.com

Sam Morril, Feb. 15-17, Bricktown Comedy Club, 409 E. California, bricktowncomedy.com

Kat Hasty, Feb. 15, Beer City Music Hall, 1141 NW Second, beercitymusichall.com

Bianca Del Rio, Feb. 15, Tower Theatre, 425 NW 23rd, towertheatreokc.com

Eureka Strings, Feb. 16, Beer City Music Hall, 1141 NW Second, beercitymusichall.com

Jackie MaShore sings lead during Mountain Smoke’s performance. (PHOTO TAYLOR HORNER/THE VISTA)

Jackie MaShore sings harmony while Gary Howe saws the fiddle in the background. (PHOTO TAYLOR HORNER/THE VISTA)

Mountain Smoke played a packed house at the UCO Jazz Lab. (PHOTO TAYLOR HORNER/THE VISTA)

Kenny Davis plays a dobro solo during Mountain Smoke’s set. (PHOTO TAYLOR HORNER/THE VISTA)

Adele Wolf’s Valentine Follies will take off Feb. 10 at the Civic Center Music Hall’s Little Theatre. (PHOTO CARRIE STRONG/PROVIDED)

Original Flow performs as part of the Headspace Residency Feb. 2 at Resonant Head. (BANDCAMP/PROVIDED)