Don Ritenburgh Business Adviser ritenbur@oakland.edu
248.370.2533
PUNK, HARDCORE
BANDS took over The Habitat during the 2025 edition of SPB’s Battle of the Bands on Thursday, March 20. Learn more about the bands in attendance — as well as the winner of the night — on page 12.
PHOTO BY EVELYN APAHIDEAN
Detransitioner Chloe Cole addresses students at Turning Point USA event
CHELSEA BOSSERT Arts Editor
On March 18, 2025, Turning Point USA at Oakland — an OU-based student-run chapter of the conservative activist group Turning Point USA — brought detransaitioner guest speaker, Chloe Cole, to the Oakland Center. Cole is famous for her story of being a detransitioner (a.k.a. a person who was formerly transgender.)
According to their website, Turning Point USA is a non-profit organization that aims to empower college and high school students to “restore traditional American values like patriotism, respect for life, liberty, family, and fiscal responsibility.” The organization’s founder, Charlie Kirk, is a known conservative activist who, as recently as last year, called for gender-affirming care to be banned for the entire country.
The event, titled “Exposing the Trans Agenda,” brought around 50 attendants to Ballroom A on the second floor of the Oakland Center, but it also drew about the same number of protesters. The event was promoted by student representatives of TPUSA at Oakland, like Malachai Cattanach, who is the president of the student organization.
“We were kind of just browsing through speakers and thought it might be a fun message to bring to campus,” Cattanach said.
Cattanach echoes Cole’s sentiment on gender affirming care, rather than Kirk’s. Both believe that no one under the age of 18 should receive any treatment that includes HRT (hormone replacement therapy,)
surgeries or puberty blockers. According to Cole, she received gender affirming care to transition female-tomale when she was a teenager and had undergone a double-mastectomy procedure at the age of 14.
Cole also believes that gender-affirming care should be less streamlined and more gatekept.
“It should be more of a drawn out, years long process of vetting — rather than letting everybody through the system,” Cole said in a Q&A after her talk.
For adults, the practice Cole is referring to is primarily labeled as informed consent — where patients who are 18 and older are told the benefits and risks of HRT and gender-affirming care.
While some widely recognized scientific institutions like the American Psychological Association (APA) have supported access to gender-affirming care for children and adults for years, more federally funded programs like the National Institutes of Health (NIH) could be at risk due to the current Trump administration’s stance on transgender issues.
Cole’s speech lasted for around thirty minutes and she stayed an additional hour after her talk was over to lead a Q&A portion of the event, fielding supporting and dissenting opinions. Most in the event appreciated her honesty when it comes to this topic, which is often seen as divisive.
“[Cole] is very well-versed in this and it is great hearing her input first-hand and it’s definitely a conversation that needs to be shared a bit more,” Jordan Simms, an OU student who attended the talk, said.
Others were there to see if there was any drama about to unfold.
“My initial reason for coming here is that I thought
there were going to be a lot of protesters in the [ballroom] exactly,” Domenic Mullins, another OU student, said. “I wanted to see chaos but I gained something rather insightful and something more valuable…”
Cole additionally commented on the protestors that were outside, chanting and playing music during the event on the other side of the ballroom partition.
“I think a lot of these people have many misconceptions about me and the biggest one being that I hate transgender people,” Cole said. “I think ultimately what we are concerned about is the same thing: we’re all concerned about the safety, the livelihoods and the support of young people who are struggling. We may not agree on what that looks like, but I think it’s incredibly important that we have these open discussions coming from both sides in order to meet on common ground.”
Another popular conservative speaker, Riley Gaines, is being hosted by Oakland University’s chapter of NEW (Network of Enlightened Women) in the Oakland Center Ballroom C on April 15.
PHOTO BY MATTHEW VIGELIUS
OU alumni share career opportunities in anthropology
MATILDE RABAJOLI AND ADRIAN JIMENEZ MORALES
Employment for anthropology majors is projected to grow 8% by 2033, a faster-than-average rate for most careers. Thus, Oakland University alumni shared their insights and tips for exploring diverse career opportunities with an anthropology degree.
Anthropology is the study of human societies and cultures and their developments. OU offers an anthropology major and minor, including various focuses in related fields, like archaeology, applied geographic information science and art history.
“I, for three weeks, was a human resource management major,” Ashley Ross, Oakland University alumni and Associate Director of Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture Museum, said. “With archeology at OU, I realized very quickly I didn’t like digging in the dirt, which sounds absolutely silly, but it’s very necessary if you’re going to be doing archeology.”
Ross then decided for an anthropology degree, transitioning from the excavation site to the museums, still dealing with artifacts and history. Explaining how artifacts reflect and interact with human history is one of Ross’ favorite aspects of anthropology, she said.
“At OU I was able to do very high-level work as an undergrad,” Ross said. “I actually started my first museum job at the Scripps mansion in Lake Orion. I was able to do some excavation work there, but also, I spent a couple of years there as a collection’s assistant, learning about the house and caring for different types of material culture within.”
OU anthropology professor Suzanne Spencer-Wood explained that anthropology is not only important to developing diverse careers, but also for understanding people from diverse cultures in the age of globalization. She points to medicine and even politics as fields of study influenced by anthropology.
“The great thing about degrees in anthropology is that you are given a very desirable skill set that can be applied to a lot of different fields.” Alex Knoieczny, an anthropology OU alumni and Youths Program Director for the Troy Historic Village, said. “I know anthropology majors working in everything from corporate healthcare to museums to doing social work. I would say that opportunities are better than a lot of people think.”
“I started volunteering [at the Troy Historic Village] because I wanted to get some experience that was at least adjacent to my degree path and fell in love with the place and museum work in general,” Knoieczny said. “In terms of my degree helping with my career, I wouldn’t have my position without it. Some of it is the skills I developed, of course, but like many places, the Historic Village requires a degree in museums, history, or a related field — anthropology is considered a related field.”
Both Ross and Knoieczny characterized OU’s anthropology program as career-driven, in other words, the programs and faculty are focused on giving students skills they can develop and diversify to accommodate their desired career path.
Spencer-Wood pointed out that students interested in non-human primates are employed at zoos and research facilities to understand how humans evolved from primates. Alongside the less common job outlets for anthropologists, academic employment at universities is also possible for all specializations.
“Anthropology has, at least in my experience, set me up to be able to work in a variety of different institutions, organizations, as well as interact with populations cross-culturally,” Ross said, echoing Spencer-Wood’s teachings. “It strengthens your empathy, which I think is critical in today’s world, in understanding school and understanding the workforce, and just in understanding your neighbor, and I have never once regretted getting an anthropology degree.”
To learn more about the anthropology major at OU, please visit the Department of Sociology, Anthropology, Social Work and Criminal Justice website.
PHOTO COURTESY OF SUZANNE SPENCER-WOOD
Quackathon: GrizzHacks celebrates its seventh edition
ADRIAN JIMENEZ MORALES
Campus Editor
After 24 hours of programming, a Wayne State University team claimed first place at the seventh edition of GrizzHacks, excelling above dozens of engineering teams ready to experiment with the latest technology.
The engineering marathon is a 24-hour competition to create a project utilizing the latest technology. Networking opportunities, tech talks, food and even a duck hunt were integrated into the event to offer an immersive experience for participants.
“I really don’t think there’s a negative — other than health reasons for staying up late — to miss GrizzHacks,” Ben Braniff, computer science major, said. “You talk to really smart engineers, you do projects, get to see other people who are doing projects that you can interact with, and you have opportunities to get an internship.”
From the morning of March 22, until 3 p.m. on March 23, the duck-themed hackathon brought together around 170 participants, 40 more than last year, Bethany Goss, GrizzHacks secretary said.
This year’s ‘quackathon’ had four tracks — specific categories within the larger competition — all sponsored by a different company providing a different challenge and piece of technology for participants to try out.
“There was the Free WILi track, so that’s a piece
of hardware that’s in competition with the flipper zero,” Goss explained. “Then there’s social good. So basically, anything that you think would benefit the community in some way, any app that you think would help people out.”
The developers’ tools track focused on crafting tools for software engineers to improve their current operations, while the AI and ML track was centered around working with artificial intelligence technologies — something almost all teams integrated into their projects.
Participants could spend the night at the Engineering Center or go home and return to present their projects by noon on March 23. Chelsea Pfeiffer, a computer science major pulled an allnighter to finish her project, minutes before the noon deadline.
“It was exhilarating, honestly, I had a breakthrough about 1 a.m. and then it just carried me through until now,” Pfeiffer said. “We integrated Gemini API to analyze text files and all kinds of different picture files to detect scams, to protect the vulnerable people in our society from being scammed.”
Erica Wilds, an incoming freshman planning to major in marketing with a minor in artificial intelligence, became part of Pfeiffer’s team after she heard about GrizzHacks at her campus orientation.
“Halee, the president of GrizzHacks, she told me about it, she was like ‘even though you’re incoming, you can still join, it’d be a blast,’” Wilds said. “I
don’t have any computing experience or anything like that with coding and she’s like, ‘You don’t need none, just come out and have fun, learn as you go.’ And that’s exactly what I did.”
All the winners of the four tracks won prizes from Ray-Ban Meta Glasses to a Mini Fridge and Nespresso machines. The competing projects ranged from Doom-like video games, to study aids and even a “Brain rot blocker.”
The first place went to Blaine Oania’s team, a group of four Wayne State students who built “a fully integrated patient caregiver monitoring system complete with an AI-powered wheelchair with autonomous navigation and a fully integrated sensor suite of biomechanical sensors.”
In other words, they programmed a system allowing people with disabilities to regain some motor abilities. They explained the project was inspired by the silver tsunami where over 10,000 people are turning 65 every single day in the US.
“And I’ve had some of the best nights of my life with these three other folks, just messing around in the middle of the night programming,” Siva Senthil, winner of GrizzHacks 7, said. “The fun is probably the best part, we had big teddy bears and air mattresses. I think one of the best times was during our previous hackathon where we were laughing at traffic noises at 1 a.m.”
OU’s Diverse Dental Society packs hygiene care bags for kids in need
DANIELA CESARIO Features Reporter
Oakland University’s Diverse Dental Society recently came together to make a difference in the community. The student-led organization packed hygiene bags filled with essential items like floss, toothpaste and toothbrushes for children in need. They aimed to promote better oral health awareness while giving back to local families.
“We wanted to do something that directly benefits kids who may not have access to these basic items,” president of the society and junior Noor Attar said. “Good oral hygiene starts early, and having the right tools makes a big difference. It’s rewarding to know that we’re helping kids develop healthier habits.”
The event took place in the Oakland Center, where volunteers assembled many hygiene bags. Each bag contained fun, kid-friendly dental items, in order to promote that oral health is just as important as any kind. Students worked together efficiently, ensuring that every bag was packed with care.
“It was great to see so many students come together for this cause,” senior Audrey Giacolone said. “Everyone here understands that small actions like this can have a big impact.”
This initiative is part of the Diverse Dental Society’s broader mission to promote oral health equity. The group frequently partners with local schools and community organizations to spread awareness about dental care. For many, this event was just another step in their ongoing commitment to service.
“We want to reach as many people as possible,” sophomore Mary Thomas said. “Dental care isn’t always prioritized, but it’s essential for overall health. If we can help kids form good habits now, it could prevent serious problems later.”
Beyond packing hygiene bags, students also used the event to educate others about oral health. They discussed the importance of routine checkups and how diet affects dental well-being. For many volunteers, this was a chance to apply their knowledge in a meaningful way.
“As a future dentist, I love being able to use what I’ve learned to help people,” Attar said. “It’s one thing to study oral health, but another to actually make an impact. This is why I joined the Diverse Dental Society in the first place.”
The organization hopes to continue expanding its outreach efforts in the coming months. They plan to host many more events like candle and clay painting, to help raise awareness of the society and hopefully gain new members.
“This is just the beginning,” Giacolone said. “We have so many ideas for ways to support our community. It’s amazing to be part of something bigger than myself.”
With their dedication to service and health education, the Diverse Dental Society is making a real difference. By packing hygiene bags and spreading awareness, they’re helping to ensure that more kids have access to essential dental care. Their efforts exemplify the spirit of giving back that defines Oakland University’s student organizations.
“Helping others is at the heart of what we do,” Attar said. “We’re not just learning about dentistry; we’re using our knowledge to create positive change. And that’s what makes this experience so meaningful.”
To learn more about OU’s Diverse Dental Club, you can contact them on Instagram @ddsou.
PHOTO BY DANIELA CESARIO
2025 Keeper of the Dream Award Recipient: A’Miya Dural
SOPHIA CURRAN Features Reporter
The Keeper of the Dream Award recognizes outstanding students who have helped foster interracial understanding and goodwill. Through reflecting on the needs of their own communities, recipients of the award aim to help those less fortunate achieve their full potential. As a student leader and peer mentor, A’Miya Dural trusts her own faith and encourages those around her to recognize their potential in whatever path they follow.
Dural is currently a junior majoring in Clinical and Diagnostic Sciences specializing in PrePhysician’s Assistant. Like many recipients of the award, Dural heard about the opportunity while working at the Center for Multicultural Initiatives. As she worked there, she became aware of many friends and co-workers whose lives benefited from receiving the award.
“I would say a viable contender for this award is someone with a heart for pushing toward change and community in our society regarding how minority groups are treated,” Dural said. “One cannot just apply for the opportunity or for the money; they have to be actively working to change the narrative that oppressors have been trying to make a reality for underrepresented groups.”
When not guiding students through Oakland University, Dural also takes time to volunteer as a
way to give back to the community. In particular, she leads bible studies and has relied on her faith in her journey of helping those in need.
“My ‘short-term’ plans are to make sure that I am glorifying God in everything that I do and also giving back to the community in some way, whether that be through ministry, influencing, community service, nonprofit, etc.,” Dural said. “When applying for this award, Jesus was my full support system, and my close friends, who were rooting for me, were also my biggest support.”
Outside of her faith, Dural relied on the Career and Life Design Center at Oakland University to help present the truest version of herself for the interview.
“I had two appointments with the Career and Life Design Center when preparing for the interview,” Dural said. “One appointment was to review the interview’s foundational aspects and how to break everything down, and the other was an actual mock interview, which helped a lot with the feedback received.”
Dural recalls the moment she opened the letter revealing she was named a recipient of the Keeper of the Dream Award.
“I remember opening the envelope in my car and screaming at the top of my lungs,” Dural said. “Immediately began to thank Jesus because trusting Him was the only reason I could be equipped enough to win the award. After processing the letter, I felt like everything I had been through was for a reason. Although I didn’t need this award to come to this revelation, I was happy that my story can inspire and motivate those who have experienced similar things; it could show them that I made it through those feelings and experiences, and so can you too.”
For more information on the award and other opportunities the CMI provides, visit the CMI OU webpage.
Professors Jacob Widmar and Danny Gurwin: From on-Broadway to on-campus
NOAH FRANCIS
Features Editor
Oakland University is chock-full of amazing pr ofessors, each bringing a bit of their experiences into the way they teach. For Assistant Professors of Musical Theatre, Jacob Widmar and Danny Gurwin, their experiences as Broadway actors directly give the students of Oakland University unique insight for what to expect when they make their own big break.
Widmar grew up in California, falling in love with show tunes and musicals. Going to Brigham Young University, Widmar studied musical theatre and eventually moved to New York to start auditioning.
“It’s a numbers game and it’s a time game, and I was very fortunate to be at the right place, right time, and that’s what led me to Broadway,” Widmar said. “It was always what I wanted to do ever since I was little, ever since I saw my sister’s high school production of ‘Hello, Dolly!’ in 1984, I was hooked.”
While Widmar grew up in California, Gurwin was raised right here in Southfield, Michigan. After spending 12 years at the University of Arizona, Gurwin and his family are thrilled to be a stone’s throw away from Southfield again.
“I used to see tours come through, and my mom used to take me to the theater when I was little,” Gurwin said. “I remember the first national tour I saw was ‘42nd Street’ and then I saw the national tour of ‘Cats.’ Both of those shows were at the
Fisher Theatre and I remember thinking, ‘This is amazing. This is what I want to do.’”
Gurwin thinks fondly about his first Broadway performance as a defining moment in his experience.
“I was lucky enough to book my first play Off Broadway, which led to an off-Broadway musical at Lincoln Center called ‘A New Brain.’ And then after ‘A New Brain’, I booked ‘The Scarlet Pimpernel,’ and that was my Broadway debut. And I was overjoyed. I remember every second of that
performance. I remember telling myself, remember every moment of this.”
Going from Broadway actors to professors, the lessons both professors teach are practical for their students, and take reference from their reallife experiences.
“We know what the experience is like,” Gurwin said. “We know what a rehearsal process is like the audition process, and so it’s just a matter of expressing those things and being really honest with the students about how all of that stuff works.”
“It’s also really fun too,” Widmar said. “We have all the professional and practical experience, and I always tell them, because I’m very direct when I teach, I say, ‘I’m not saying this because I did everything right, I’m telling you this because I’ve done everything wrong.’”
Using their experiences to help shape their students, both professors are optimistic for the future of OU’s theatre department.
“I think together, we’re helping shape Oakland’s future and really making it a destination for students around the country,” Gurwin said. “It’s something that we’re very proud of, and we’re hopeful for the future of Oakland’s musical theatre program.”
For more information about OU’s School of Music, Theatre and Dance, visit their OU webpage.
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CENTER OF MULTICULTURAL INITIATIVES
PHOTO COURTESY OF JACOB WIDMAR AND DANNY GURWIN
Students share their thoughts on Marvel’s ‘Daredevil: Born Again’
DANIELA CESARIO Features Reporter
Marvel Studios has brought back its fan-favorite hero with “Daredevil: Born Again” on Disney Plus, reigniting excitement among viewers. The series continues Matt Murdock’s journey, maintaining the dark, gritty tone that made the original Netflix show a hit. Fans at Oakland University are eager to see how this new iteration of the characters develop.
“I was worried Disney would water it down,” freshman Blake Jahn said. “But after watching the first few episodes, I think they kept the essence of the original while making it feel fresh. The fight choreography and cinematography are definitely some of the best we’ve seen in the MCU.”
The show’s return to street-level storytelling has been a major draw for fans looking for more grounded superhero content.
Unlike Marvel’s recent releases on Disney Plus, Daredevil takes risks with its multiversal adventures.
“Daredevil: Born Again” brings back the brutal action and personal stakes that defined the character. Many students appreciate this shift in focus.
“I love seeing heroes deal with real-world problems,” freshman Heather Czekai said. “Daredevil isn’t fighting aliens or saving the world; he’s dealing with crime and corruption, which makes his struggles more relatable. It’s refreshing to have a show that feels more connected to reality.”
Aside from its storytelling, “Daredevil: Born Again” has also sparked discussions about character
development. Matt Murdock’s internal conflict between his vigilante justice and his role as a lawyer is central to the show’s appeal. Some students and critics alike have noticed how this aspect deepens the character beyond
just his superhero persona.
“The duality of Matt Murdock or Daredevil is what makes him so interesting,” Czekai said. “Seeing him struggle between following the law and taking matters into his own hands is fascinating. Especially in the newest episodes, it raises important questions about morality and justice that go beyond just being an action show.”
One of the most exciting elements of the new series is the return of familiar faces from the original Netflix show. Bringing back characters like Wilson Fisk has fans anticipating intense confrontations and deeper storytelling. Many students are especially eager to see how the new show ties into past events.
“I’m so glad they kept the original cast,” Jahn said. “It wouldn’t feel right if they switched around the actors of the main characters like Marvel sometimes does. Their performances are what made the Netflix show so good to begin with, so I’m glad Marvel didn’t replace them.”
With its mix of thrilling action, strong character development and street-level storytelling, “Daredevil: Born Again” is proving to be a major hit. Students at Oakland University are excited to see how the series unfolds and what it means for the future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. As the show progresses, the buzz around campus only continues to grow.
“It feels like Marvel is finally listening to fans,” Czekai said. “Even with it being a few years after the original release of the show, then adding the character Frank Castle from Marvel’s ‘The Punisher,’ the show is really on track again to being one of the greatest in the entire Marvel Cinematic Universe, and I’m excited for the new episodes every Tuesday.”
PHOTO COURTESY OF DISNEY+
Queer is an act of resistance! trans rights Protest at ou
Some could hear it all the way from Varner Hall, others from South Foundation Hall; around 50 students, faculty and alumni rallied at the foot of Elliott Tower in support of trans rights, and against hate speech in response to Chloe Cole’s visit to OU.
“We’re out here protesting because we have an organization on campus that is portraying a detransitioner who is spouting lies about transgender individuals and about what gender identity is,” Sierra, an OU student said. “We just have to be out here, we have to, you know, let people know that this won’t be tolerated on our campus.”
On March 18, Sierra wasn’t wearing a mask like many of her peers protesting, however, she wished her last name would be kept confidential — both acts of precaution in an age of increased tensions at college protests.
“There were a lot of people coming from both sides of the issue, those who may not have stories like mine and those that agree,” Chloe Cole said. “What I really appreciated was that there are people who I disagree with, who were able to come up and ask very fair questions and be able to be on common ground with me, and that’s something that I think is exactly needed, especially on college campuses where open discussions should be facilitated.”
OU’s chapter of Turning Point USA was aware of the demonstration, as flyers were distributed throughout campus and on social media by the Young Democratic Socialists of OU (YDSA). Around six OUPD officers watched over the juxtaposing demonstration outside and the presentation inside the Oakland Center. The atmosphere was tense.
“Chloe seems to be coming from a genuine place. I don’t think that she intends hate or harm, but I think what she advocates for does lead to much more harm than it does good,” Mario Franciscan, an OU student, said. “I attended the event partially out of curiosity, and I wanted to see what the reaction was from the public.”
Between chants and picket signs, protester’s reactions ranged from outrage to disappointment, from solidarity to fear.
“I’m just disappointed that OU has allowed an event like this to happen, I feel like it’s pretty clear that it’s openly transphobic,” Cupid, an OU student, said. “As a trans person, that’s really upsetting, especially since when I enrolled at OU, in the fall 2022 semester — as far as my research goes — it was the second safest campus in the state for queer people.”
While the large majority of protesters refrained from hearing Cole’s presentation, even after an invitation from the president of OU’s chapter of Turning Point USA, Malachi Cattanach, some of the protest organizers engaged in conversation with Cole during a Q&A session.
“As one of the leaders of the protest, I thought that it was only fair that I go in and speak to her directly,” Ethan, an OU student, said. “I am proud that she has figured out who she is, because most people are not able to do that, but that doesn’t give her the right to put everyone else down in the process. So I wanted to make sure that I went in to speak with her to express that.”
At least a portion of OU and the larger Oakland community stood for trans rights, rallying against what they characterize as hate speech — a controversial topic with legislative stakes.
“Queer people, Queer is an act of resistance, it is a proud history. Stonewall was a riot,” Ethan said. “Queerness is to deviate from the norm, to change things, and that is exactly what we are doing. We will not let the status quo — of pleasantly allowing the enemy to
Protesters went from Elliott Tower to the lobby area before the Founders Ballroom where Cole presented. Chants didn’t cease to resonate inside the OC. It was only after the speaker left around 9 p.m. that the protest dissipated with applause.
“We’ve had controversial events in the building before, like Ash Wednesday — we had a whole church service in the event at one point in time — but this goes beyond something that’s inclusive,” a former OC staff member and alumni who wished to remain anonymous said. “I just honestly would like to ask, is this what we stand for?”
The quiet brilliance of ‘Equus Asinus’
REAGAN REETZ
Marketing Director
On March 19, the Canadian indie-pop band Men I Trust released their first of two interconnected albums, “Equus Asinus,” with less than a week’s notice. The understated release matches the band’s consistent, light and jazzy style.
To me, the magic of Men I Trust lies in how each song gradually reveals itself with every listen. A new listener might shuffle their tracks on Spotify and feel like they each sound the same – and in a way, they wouldn’t be wrong.
I’ve found that each song carries a subtle motif that helps it quietly stand out and distinguish itself over time. However, it’s anything but gimmicky, and the album remains cohesive despite each track showcasing its own character.
Immediately, the stand-out tracks were “Paul’s Theme” and “Heavenly Flow.”
Almost entirely instrumental, save for some soft humming, “Paul’s Theme” is emotional, vintage and seemingly film-inspired. The keys that enter the second half feel both cinematic and personal, guiding the track to a powerful close and elevating the interlude.
“Heavenly Flow” initially stood out for its percussion, and then for its lyrics, with melodies carried by Emmanuelle Proulx’s dreamlike vocals – especially in the chorus. Most enchanting is the softness of the lines: “Why, don’t you see / How much you mean to me?”
I initially overlooked the opening track, “I Come With Mud,” but it quickly became a favorite of mine. Reminiscent of “Organon” from their 2021 release “Untourable Album,” it has a grittier, nostalgic feel, as if the band took the album cover and turned it into sound.
The album cover itself, a captivating photograph by Donna Ferrato, feels almost voyeuristic as it candidly captures a shirtless man in a softly lit bedroom using an iron. It mirrors the album’s intimate, almost ethereal sound.
While the album remains unified, the first half of “Equus Asinus” outshines the second. From the third track, “Bethlehem,” through “Frost Bite” and “Heavenly Flow,” to the sixth track, “The Landkeeper,” the album truly soars.
Moving onto the back end, “Girl (2025),” while dynamic on its own, is quite jarring in the tracklist. As the only track featuring a primary male vocalist, it left me wondering why – but not in a good way. While not as sonically interesting, I can appreciate the themes of “I Don’t Like Music,” a track built around an innately contradictory premise. Something is compelling about declaring “I don’t like music / Why can’t I care?” through song, exploring a musician’s complicated relationship with the very thing they create.
Themes of reflection and regret are apparent elsewhere too, with lyrics such as: “Was there more I could’ve done?” from “All My Candles.”
Unfortunately, the closing track, “What Matters Most,” leaves much to be desired. It is a flat end to an otherwise lush and beautifully bittersweet album.
Despite a few missteps in the final stretch, “Equus Asinus” remains wonderfully melancholic and serene. It’s a slow-burn record that rewards repeated listens, reaffirming what I find most brilliant about Men I Trust’s discography.
The follow-up album “Equus Caballus” is expected sometime later this year.
PHOTO COURTESY OF BANDCAMP
What to stream this week: ‘Severance’ and more
MORGAN WARNEKE Content Editor
There haven’t been many monumental releases in the theater this past month, but it’s been an exciting couple of weeks for streaming services. From limited series to long-awaited new seasons, let’s dive into what everyone is watching from the comfort of their own homes.
“Severance” — Apple TV Plus
This American science fiction psychological thriller series is directed by Dan Erickson and produced by Ben Stiller. The cast hosts an impressive list of Oscar and Emmy winners, including Adam Scott, Zach Cherry, Britt Lower and Tramell Tillman, to name a few.
“Severance” follows Mark Scout (played by Scott), an employee of a fictional corporation called Lumon Industries. Scout agrees to a “severance” program that separates his non-work memories from his work memories. In order to do this, a surgical procedure introduces a chip inside the employees’ brain — terrifying, I know. From then on, we watch how sinister the operation really is.
The show has been praised for its writing and performances. Be sure to watch out for spoilers, since season 2 just ended and it seems to be all anyone can talk about. According to Stiller, the
show has already been renewed for another season, so if you like it, you won’t be left waiting for long.
“The White Lotus” — Max
“The White Lotus” is a drama series created, written and directed by Mike White. The show follows a group of people as they head to a resort, called the White Lotus, to unleash their worst impulses. It’s a social satire following the exploits of guests and employees of the resort chain, whose stay becomes affected by their various decisions.
With each passing day, a darker reality manifests out of these picture-perfect guests. There are so many stars in this cast, there’s bound to be a name you recognize — Jennifer Coolidge, Sydney Sweeney, Leo Woodall, Theo James and Aubrey Plaza are just a few. The show has won numerous Emmys for its performance. The final episode of season three is set to air on April 6, so you have some time to binge watch the first three seasons.
“Adolescence” — Netflix
This one-shot crime drama just hit Netflix on Mar. 13, and it’s already being called the best show of the year. “Adolescence” is a four-part limited series that stars Stephen Graham as Eddie Miller. Each episode is filmed in one continuous shot as Miller tries to make sense of his 13-yearold son Jamie Miller (played by Owen Cooper) son being accused of murder. The story unfolds in real time as both the family and detectives search for
answers. This is the perfect show if you’re looking for something to finish over a weekend.
“Good American Family” — Hulu Ellen Pompeo (of Grey’s Anatomy) is the main star in this new Hulu series. Directed by Liz Garbus, “Good American Family” is inspired by the true story of Natalia Grace — a child adoption that takes a mysterious turn. At first, the new family gets along perfectly, until the adoptive parents come to realize that their new daughter isn’t who they thought: dun dun duuun! You’ll have to tune in to learn more.
Maybe it’s the vibe for 2025, but we seem to be on a dystopian, psychological thriller run. If you needed more scenarios of what could possibly go wrong, you might want to start with one of these series.
PHOTO COURTESY OF ESQUIRE
PHOTO COURTESY OF TV INSIDER
PHOTO COURTESY OF HEAVEN OF HORROR
PHOTO COURTESY OF HULU
PHOTO COURTESY OF SV DAILY
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LOS ANGELES TIMES
PHOTO COURTESY OF UNSPLASH
OUSC Elections: Meet the legislative tickets
MALLORY WALIGORA Political Editor
In addition to the presidential elections for the Oakland University Student Congress (OUSC), students can also run for the position of legislator.
The Oakland Post reached out to the candidates for comment to share their campaign initiatives and background information. Voting will start on March 31 and run until April 4. Here are the legislative tickets, listed alphabetically.
Meghan Bareis
Bareis is a freshman majoring in political science. She is a member of Model UN and is a political reporter for The Oakland Post.
“With a divided world, I would like to see the student body more connected with OUSC. Sometimes it feels that our campus is not together, and I think it’s incredibly important to get students involved with OUSC events and also have a chance to learn about the current events within the university and the broader world. By establishing this connection, we can create a stronger, more unified community that is informed and actively engaged in creating a better future,” Bareis said.
“Government and politics have always been a passion of mine, and being able to contribute that passion with OU students is something that would allow my experience to contribute beneficially,” Bareis said. “Applying my love and passion for social science fields would be mutually rewarding for both myself and the students here at OU, fostering an environment of growth and community engagement.”
Adrian Ivezaj
Ivezaj has not responded to The Oakland Post’s request for comment.
Ethan Lehman-Pace
Lehman-Pace is a senior majoring in psychology with minors in political science and LGBTQ studies. He has been involved with OUSC for three years and has served in roles including the director of executive platform, community engagement and legislator. He is the vice president of OUYDSA, the secretary of SAGE and the president of Model UN.
“I want to ensure that OUSC’s election programs remain in place, and I want to begin a pressure campaign to get the university to fund some of the offices such as the CMI, GSC, and DSS, among others,” Lehman-Pace said.
“Students should vote for me because I have a proven track record of success in a variety of roles. I’ve been voted on before, and I think that my record speaks for itself. I’ve fought for them my whole time at Oakland, and by not voting for me they will lose a lion fighting for them every day. I have the dedication, the experience, and the energy to continue in the legislature,” Lehman-Pace said.
Michael Makuch
Makuch is a sophomore majoring in social studies for educators. He is a teacher’s assistant for HC1000 and a member of the Euchre Club.
“For Oakland University’s government to be truly representative, students must be well-informed,” Makuch said. “I believe that Student Congress should post on its Instagram story each week outlining the legislation being considered. These posts should be followed by Instagram polls asking students to provide their input. I also believe that OUSC should place flyers around Oakland Center with QR codes allowing students to vote online to share their perspectives on congressional legislation. As a result, legislators would be better suited to vote with the interests of OU students in mind.”
“I also believe that Student Congress should adopt a more active role in supporting charities. In particular, I
believe OUSC should create a fundraising committee to sell raffle tickets at OU events. Then, I believe it should donate the profits to an effective local or international charity,” Makuch said.
Lance Markowitz
Markowitz is a senior obtaining a dual degree in business management and Spanish language and literature. He is a former legislator and currently serves as the commuter support chair. Additionally, he is the vice president and assistant captain of D1 Club Hockey, the treasurer for the table tennis club and a student representative for the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL).
“Since I joined student Congress in 2022, my goal has been to facilitate student and faculty collaborations to help make classes more impactful and experiential,” Markowitz said. “I have a track record of addressing a lack of student engagement in the classroom, a topic which the vast majority of students are affected by but often don’t realize the impact that individual students can have on this issue.”
Markowitz’s legislation to make student engagement a key component of Oakland University’s strategic plan was passed by the university senate, which eventually led to student engagement being included in the new master plan.
Asia Mays
“This past academic year, I was able to see how many improvements and resources OUSC was able to put out around campus for the benefit of students,” Mays said. “I was also able to see the barrier of communication that made it challenging for all students to find out about the resources available to them. That is why my overall goal is to improve the communication between OUSC and the student body to address more student concerns and more accurately represent the student’s best interest.”
Specific goals include, “assisting with supporting DEI initiatives and groups while navigating the Trump Administration,” and “achieving more clear and consistent communication between OUSC and Student Organizations.”
“I intend to improve their college experience by improving OUSC’s communication with students and student organizations on campus. This will help make sure that Student Congress can more accurately represent the best interests of students on campus and will lead to a more effective way for students to be able to voice out their concerns,” Mays said.
Daniela Meson De La Fuente
Fuente is a junior majoring in bioengineering with a minor in mechanical engineering. She is a member of the Honors College, BeGolden Fashion Magazine and the Society of Women Engineers. She is also the president of the Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society and an engineering intern at IEE Sensing, located in Auburn Hills. She has been involved with OUSC since 2022.
“My goal is to obtain feedback from the student body for where they wish to see their tuition money going towards. I want to plan for events that make college more fun and stress free for students, through improving mental health and increasing networking opportunities,” she said.
“I am running for the legislature because I have always been passionate about improving student life and making sure that every voice on campus is heard. My approach to the change I want to make on campus is student-centered and based on real issues that need to be addressed,” she said.
Alexandra Nichol
Nichol is a freshman pre-business student hoping to become a finance major with a specialization in wealth management. This is her first time running for OUSC. She is a member of DECA, the Honors College and is the assistant director of finance and director of philanthropy for the Alpha Sigma Tau Sorority.
“I have goals specifically regarding mental health among college students and have to say that is by far what I am most passionate about,” Nichol said. “I would also like to work within the commuter space, I would like to work towards an environment where commuters feel driven to be a part of campus activities.”
“I decided to run for legislator due to my passion for change as well as promotion of advocacy, and even more specifically my determination to stand up for others. I have always found it extremely important to take into account what would be best for all of us, rather than for just one of us,” Nichol said.
Mario Prisciandaro
Prisciandaro has not responded to The Oakland Post’s request for comment.
Kaylah Snell
Snell is a senior majoring in journalism with a specialization in broadcasting and a minor in political science with a specialization in Courts, Justice and Politics. She works as a scribe and reader for disability support services and is the treasurer for Echo Cognito.
“One of the most ambitious goals that I want to achieve is higher transparency — and for me, that means pulling things from “Congress speak,” and putting them into simple language that anyone, regardless of political experience or background, can understand,” Snell said. “As such, I want to make infographics for every bill that goes up to student vote, explaining not just what they do, but why it matters to you as a student.”
“I’ve always been passionate about helping students. And I find that while I can do a lot from outside of student congress, I want to have a position within to help make a longer-term impact, alongside helping with a more formalized structure for smaller goals,” Snell said.
Carolina Valdes
In OUSC, Valdes has served as a legislator and steering chair and has been a member of the marketing and judiciary committees.
“I want to prioritize achievable, student-driven projects that boost OU life, particularly in areas like job preparedness, financial literacy, and direct student involvement. Since many graduates lack a solid understanding of budgeting, credit, or wage negotiation, I will push for active financial planning courses that provide students with useful information,” Valdes said. “I aim to increase career development opportunities by expanding student-alumni mentorship programs, allowing students to connect with OU graduates in their fields and gain real industry insights before they enter the workforce.”
“I want to continue pushing for real change that makes a difference in students’ everyday experiences,” Valdes said. “As someone born in Michigan but raised in Mexico, I bring a fresh perspective and understand the importance of community, representation, and action. I want to ensure every student feels heard and supported and has access to the resources they need to succeed.”
Jack Waters
Waters has been a member of OUSC for around six months.
“Of my goals and initiatives, I would like to put on another event for our international students. I’d also like to assist with events for our LGBT+ students by working with the GSC,” Waters said.
“I believe students should vote for my platform because l have worked for the student body and will continue to do so if you elect me. I will work for LGBT+ students to ensure that OUSC works for all students,” Waters said.
Matthew Wiegand
Wiegand has not responded to The Oakland Post’s request for comment.
Boycotting demonstrations take off after DEI cutbacks
MEGHAN BAREIS Political Reporter
Major companies, including Target, McDonald’s, Amazon and Walmart have announced their plans to reduce DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) programs. These cutbacks stem from the Trump administration’s executive order, demanding that DEI hiring practices must cease immediately and change to merit-based hiring.
These cutbacks have sparked protests and boycotts, particularly from black communities. NBC News conducted a set of interviews with black individuals affected by these changes, highlighting their reasons for boycotting certain stores.
Responses from the interviewees widely experienced feelings of betrayal, disappointment and anger towards stores like Target and Amazon; the majority of the individuals have vowed to boycott these establishments entirely and advocate for others to join them and redirect money towards black-owned businesses.
One response from a mother of five, Nakita Harvey, expressed her personal grievances with Target. Even though her local Target store is less than a five-minute walk from her house, she hasn’t shopped there for months.
“I’m just not going to give them my money,” she said. “It doesn’t make me feel good to give my money to people who don’t give a damn about me.”
Instead of supporting stores like Target, Harvey and other black protestors have endorsed people to shop at black-owned businesses, even if products are cheaper at large retail stores.
Corporate cutbacks of DEI policies have been
expressed in various statements. For instance, McDonald’s claims its continued commitment to diversity in its inclusion paper. Target similarly published a similar statement called “Belonging at the Bullseye” in which they expressed their DEI goals.
“Throughout 2025, we’ll be accelerating action in key areas and implementing changes with the goal of driving growth and staying in step with the evolving external landscape” Target’s statement said.
Some may argue that due to these companies’ extensive number of shoppers, no economic result will come from boycotting and protesting. In late February, a 24-hour economic blackout took place, during which people refrained from making any purchases. While the demonstration didn’t have a major impact, it
successfully garnered significant support.
However, if protests and boycotting these stores stay consistent, economic experts believe that they will work and create a difference. Duke University Professor Vicki Bogan suggested to NBC that “if there is buyin from other communities, then I think there could be enough pressure to change the corporate behavior in a shorter amount of time.”
Additional boycotts have caught public attention, most notably the 40-day Target boycott led by senior Rev. Jamal Bryant of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Atlanta, GA.
This protest encourages participants to abstain from shopping at Target during the Lent. Bryant has described this initiative as “a spiritual act of resistance,” hence the timing of this protest commencing on the first day of Lent on Monday, March 5.
Rev. Bryant commented on the boycott’s purpose, explaining the spiritual component.
“We really have got to tap into our spiritual source because we’ve got a long four years ahead of us,” he said. “In order for us to do it, it’s going to require a divine intervention and strengthening, and so that’s why every person who is in it, we’re sending a prayer journal, a prayer guide for these 40 days, so that people are able to stay grounded.”
The Target fast has garnered more than 100,000 participants from around the U.S. and is continuing to spread through the efforts of parishioners at black churches. Additional information about the Lent fast from corporations can be found on the designated website.
Trump signs executive order to dismantle the Department of Education
SOPHIA CURRAN
Features Reporter
On March 20, President Donald Trump signed an executive order dismantling the Department of Education.
The Department of Education was established in 1979 by former President Jimmy Carter, with Congress signing the Department Organization Act (Public Law 96-88 of October 1979) in 1980. Its purpose is to ensure academic equality for all students nationwide. One of the biggest ways the department solidifies its purpose is by delivering financial aid to students nationwide who would otherwise not be financially capable of attending university.
Following the signing of the executive order, Secretary of Education Linda McMahon explained President Trump’s decision to dismantle the Department.
“With today’s action, we take a significant step forward to give parents and states control over their children’s education. Teachers will be unshackled from burdensome regulations and paperwork, empowering them to get back to teaching basic subjects,” McMahon said in an official statement. “Closing the Department does not mean cutting funds from those who depend on them — we will continue to support K-12 students, students with special needs, college student borrowers, and others who rely on essential programs.”
The Department of Education does not develop curricula for K-12 schools or universities. Instead, they focus on ensuring that students receive the
same opportunities, whether it be economic or civil.
One of the most prominent sources of securing financial support for students nationwide is through Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which is managed by the Office of Federal Student Aid (FSA), an office founded within the Department of Education.
According to Oakland University, within the 2023-24 academic year, “76 percent of full-time undergraduate students received scholarships and grants averaging $9,603.” Within that 76 percent, 42 percent of their own students relied on financial aid supplied by the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships.
While President Trump dismantled the Department of Education, the future of financial aid will still remain intact under Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965. Programs under the act provide grants, work-study assistance and loans to students who apply to college or career schools.
However, with the recent layoffs and buyouts done within the department, the smaller staff will have to work quicker to maintain students who apply for aid.
Former Secretary Miguel Cardona served as head of the department under the Biden administration and served as an educator in the state of Connecticut for two decades.
On. March 12, Cardona took to social media to express his feelings about the Trump Administration’s decision to cut 2,000 employees, nearly half of their current staff.
“Yesterday, as you may be aware, steps were taken to significantly reduce the federal workforce at the U.S. Department of Education. There is an understandable sense of fear, frustration, and anxiety around this deeply disturbing decision by the current administration,” Cardona said in a letter posted on X. “The significant reduction in force at the Department will affect the distribution of Title I funding for students from disadvantaged backgrounds and reduce much-needed resources for our students with disabilities.”
The Department of Education will continue to remain intact until Congress agrees to go with the decision. However, their system will be impacted by its staff shortage.
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE WASHINGTON POST
PHOTO COURTESY OF FORBES
Michigan’s $3 billion road improvement bill
MEGHAN BAREIS Political Reporter
Michigan has had a long-standing issue with poor road conditions, making infrastructure initiatives a very important subject for Michigan citizens and their representatives.
On March 19, Michigan’s House of Representatives passed a 3.1 billion road funding bill that passed the Republican-dominated House with minimal bipartisan support.
The nine-bill plan introduces a plan that has been agreed by both parties to divert funds from the gas tax. Instead of introducing new taxes, the proposal reallocates over $1 billion from business incentive programs and directs all revenue generated from fuel taxes exclusively toward road improvements.
Speaker of the House Matt Hall of Richland Township highlighted the importance of this bill passing and the positive impact it will have on Michigan’s roads.
“This is going to be one step closer to fixing our local roads all across our cities and counties, all across our state, it’s going to be a great thing today,” Hall said.
Despite this bill being widely celebrated by the Republican party, Democrats have voiced their opposition to the new bill, highlighting the concerns they have regarding funding of education, housing and healthcare.
While the bill doesn’t impose new taxes on Michigan residents, it reallocates existing funds from other budget areas. It mandates that all fuel tax revenue be directed exclusively toward road repairs, which would
result in an approximate $700 million reduction in the school aid fund. To offset this, $755 million would be redirected from the general fund to support the school fund. However, many Democrats have concerns.
Democrat Rep. Matt Kolezar emphasized that “the road funding plan that we are looking at today could blow a hole in K-12 funding and can lead to a whole lot of uncertainty in higher education.”
Democratic support was minimal, but a number of Democratic Representatives voted yes on the bill. One of these Democrats was Rep. Jamie Thompson.
“We’re not raising people’s taxes, guys. And we’re not saddening our future generations with additional debt from this plan,” Thompson said. “This is a funding shift with money that we already actually have that’s actually going to address a long-time problem without raising taxes on Michigan citizens.”
In opposition, Curtis Hertel, chair of the Michigan Democratic Party, exclaimed his distaste with the new legislation.
“With this plan, MAGA Matt Hall is committing to raising prices and cutting funding from local communities for law enforcement and housing, not to mention making it harder to get a good-paying job in Michigan. Clearly, MAGA Matt is taking a page out of Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s unelected billionaire playbook at Michigan’s expense” Hertel said.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer also proposed redirecting funds from the gas tax in her plan last month. However, unlike the current proposal, her plan would maintain business incentives and generate additional revenue through tax increases on the marijuana industry and large corporations.
Whitmer told 7 News Detroit that she is excited that the “speaker is finally solving the roads or at least having another long-term solution that has eluded us for decades.”
Whitmer further stated that she will be working closely with Michigan’s Senate to achieve goals on both the Republican and Democratic sides.
“After the legislature comes back from spring break, we hope to get the House and Senate together at the negotiating table to hear their ideas for a bipartisan agreement that gets the job done,” Whitmer said.
PHOTO COURTESY OF MICHIGAN PUBLIC
Oakland softball drops home-series opener to Northern Kentucky
KURT SZYMANSKI Sports Editor
In the team’s home-opening slate, the Oakland softball team fell to the Northern Kentucky Norse in a three-game series that kicked off with a doubleheader on Friday, March 21, and ended on Sunday, March 23.
Oakland’s three losses from this series shifted its record to 6-16 on the season with a conference record of 1-4.
Game 1: Oakland 2, Northern Kentucky 7
In the first game of the series, the Golden Grizzlies quickly found themselves down following a double RBI in the second inning courtesy of Northern Kentucky’s Brielle DiMemmo. To make matters worse for Oakland, the Norse continued to add to their score in the following innings.
After Jena Rhoads from the Norse singled up the middle, Olivia Pastin hit a double to bring Rhoads home in the third. In the fourth, Mack Brow added to Northern Kentucky’s tally, hitting an RBI single to bring home Victoria Flores, making it a 4-0 ball game.
The Golden Grizzlies finally gained momentum in the fifth after Brooklyn Wyczalek, Alyssa Balcom and Alexa Kownacki loaded the bases with no outs.
Despite a best-case scenario for Oakland, the Golden Grizzlies only rattled in a single run on a Taylor Carraway sacrifice fly.
In the final inning, after the Norse expanded its lead to 7-1, Brooklyn Plitz gave the Golden Grizzlies
life with a single. Shortly after that, Madi Herrington brought Plitz home with a double. However, Kayla Turmell fouled out on the Golden Grizzlies next atbat, giving the Norse the first game of the series, 7-2.
Game 2: Oakland 0, Northern Kentucky 6
Like the series’ first game, the Norse struck early in the second inning of game two. After Trinity Robertson homered to start the inning, DiMemmo and Brow each tallied RBIs to give Northern Kentucky a 3-0 lead by the end of the second.
In the third inning, the Norse expanded their lead after Stella Wulker brought home Rhoads with a single. Emma Ginn made it on base on the next atbat after an Oakland error, while Wulker scored to give the Norse a 5-0 lead.
A home run from Wulker in the fifth inning put the game out of reach for a Golden Grizzlies team who only made it on base twice the entire game, making the Norse the winners of the series.
Game 3: Oakland 3, Northern Kentucky 8
The Norse came to play in the series’ final game, notching five hits and six runs in the top of the first inning.
Despite the hot start from Northern Kentucky, Oakland responded in the bottom of the first. After Herrington reached following an error and Turmell singled up the middle, Kamryn Troyer sent them home with a triple, shifting the score to 6-2.
After opening the second inning up with two straight hits, Northern Kentucky added two more runs to their total in the form of a Wulker RBI single and a throwing error from Oakland that led to Wulker getting home, expanding the Norses’ lead to 8-2.
Although the Golden Grizzlies would score in the sixth inning after the Norse made an error to load the bases for Oakland, the Golden Grizzlies couldn’t complete the comeback, failing to get another hit the rest of the match.
Up next, the Golden Grizzlies will host another three-game series at the Oakland Softball Field, this time against the Green Bay Phoenix. The series will start on Friday, March 28, and end with a doubleheader on Saturday, March 29.
With the Phoenix at the bottom of the Horizon League standings, this series gives the Golden Grizzlies an opportunity to climb the standings.
Golden Grizzlies baseball snaps losing streak to earn first conf erence win of the season
KURT SZYMANSKI Sports Editor
In the Oakland baseball team’s first homestand of the season, the Golden Grizzlies came away victorious, winning two games against the Northern Kentucky Norse in a three-game series that started on Friday, March 21, and ended on Sunday, March 23.
Game 1: Oakland 7, Northern Kentucky 6
The first game of the series was a back-and-forth affair between both teams.
Northern Kentucky struck first following a two-run homer from Josh Williams in the second. However, the Golden Grizzlies responded in the following two innings, as Carter Hain made it home in the second, and Taylor Tomlin scored after an error from the Norse, tying up the game.
The rest of game one saw the Norse, at times, pull away from the Golden Grizzlies, who responded to nearly every run Northern Kentucky put on the scoreboard. Heading into the ninth inning, the Norse had a 6-4 lead.
The final inning started great for Oakland, as Aidan Orr was walked, and Ben Clark was hit by a pitch. Then, Sam Griffith singled to the right side to earn a run, leaving the Golden Grizzlies down just one.
After Norse pitcher Aaron Massie walked John Lauinger, the bases were loaded for the Golden Grizzlies. Tomlin would hit a single, but Clark got caught at home. Still, Brandon Nigh would fly out on the next at-bat to bring home Griffith, tying the game up at 6-6.
With a tie game and two outs, Matthew McGann stepped up to the plate next and hit a walk-off single, snapping a nine-game losing streak while granting Oakland its first conference win of the season.
Game 2: Oakland 10, Northern Kentucky 0
In the second game of the series, the Golden Grizzlies played their most complete game to date.
After two innings of scoreless baseball, Oakland got the game rolling in the third. With two runners on, Griffith would ground out to bring Clark home. After Tomlin was walked, Nigh doubled to right field to boost the Golden Grizzlies score to 3-0.
From there, the Golden Grizzlies didn’t stop, adding more runs courtesy of Nigh, Griffith and Lauinger to their total in the fourth, seventh and eighth innings. By the eighth inning, with a score of 10-0, the game was called early in favor of Oakland.
In what was a great display from the Oakland batters, the pitchers also impressed. On the mound, a trio of pitchers, including Grant Garman, Blake Sehlke and Tanner Ware, gave the Norse little breathing room throughout the contest. The three combined for 10 strikeouts while giving up just four hits.
Game 3: Oakland 3, Northern Kentucky 13
In the final game of the series, the Norse got the better of the Golden Grizzlies.
Northern Kentucky was relentless offensively in this matchup, tallying 15 hits while cycling through eight different Oakland pitchers. The Norse’s most dominant inning came in the top of the seventh when Williams hit a grand slam, nearly enforcing the 10-run rule in the process.
However, Oakland did show some fight in the sixth inning as Tomlin brought home Trent Rice and Lauinger with a single. Later in the inning, McGann would ground out to second, sending Tomlin home to give the Golden Grizzlies their three runs.
Still, it was a successful series for the Golden Grizzlies, who picked up some much-needed conference wins as the season continues.
Next, the Golden Grizzlies will host a nonconference home game at the Oakland Baseball Field against Cleary University on Wednesday, March 26, before hitting the road to play the Purdue Fort Wayne Mastodons in a three-game series that starts on Friday, March 28, and ends on Sunday, March 30.
PHOTO BY EVELYN APAHIDEAN
PHOTO BY MATTHEW VIGELIUS
Softball drops tight game to Michigan State Spartans
EVAN BLANCHARD Sports Reporter
In a home run-heavy, high-octane softball game between Oakland University and Michigan State University (MSU), the Spartans ultimately prevailed over the Golden Grizzlies in a 7-5 loss for OU.
The two teams clashed last Tuesday evening at Secchia Stadium in East Lansing. It marked the third consecutive loss overall for Oakland and their third consecutive loss in their yearly game against Michigan State.
The contest had a rip-roaring start in the first inning as MSU jumped on Oakland’s sophomore starter, Alyssa Balcom. After an uneventful top of the first for OU, Balcom allowed a single against her first batter faced, Kendall Smiley of MSU. Smiley would steal second just before a Spartan walk, putting two on the basepaths with no outs.
That brought Britain Beshears up to the plate with no outs. Beshears promptly hit a bomb to right center field on a 2-0 pitch, claiming MSU’s first lead of the game 3-0. Balcom picked herself up nicely to end the inning; she coaxed a strikeout and two flyouts to escape the inning with nothing else but an extra walk.
It wouldn’t take long for the Golden Grizzlies to answer MSU’s scoring surge. After Taylor Carraway grounded out to begin the second, Kamryn Troyer doubled to left field to put OU in a great scoring
position. Second baseman Jenna Johnston worked her at-bat to a 3-2 count before finally earning her fourth ball to take first base, putting Oakland in the same two-on situation that the Spartans had.
And just like the Spartans, OU would blast off a home run to bring all three runners home. Sophomore Brooklyn Wyczalek cranked one over the fence with two outs, tying the game at three runs apiece and firing up the Golden Grizzlies’ bench. Balcom had a fantastic inning in the bottom of the second after a troublesome first, as she goaded three straight groundouts from MSU.
Oakland would get on the board again in the third inning, this time by playing small ball. Shortstop Madi Herrington got things rolling with a leadoff walk, but it seemed the inning would go nowhere with two consecutive flyouts. Herrington made a fantastic play by stealing second base so she could score on any ball in play. This set up her teammate Kayla Turmell for an RBI single, taking OU’s first lead of the day 4-3.
The game remained scoreless until the bottom of the fourth inning when MSU again made some noise. Balcom allowed a leadoff homerun to Spartans shortstop Collette Allen, tying the game 4-4.
But because this was a game of dramatics and high tension, Herrington decided to make another big play. This time around, instead of settling for a leadoff walk, she went with a leadoff homerun,
snatching back the lead from MSU in just the very next inning.
Advancing to the bottom of the fifth, the Spartans had yet another sucker punch left in them. Hannah Hawley, the third baseman of MSU, hit yet another leadoff home run. That’s right; in three frames, there were leadoff bombs.
But the damage wasn’t finished yet for the Spartans. After allowing a walk and a single, Balcom gave up a flyout to right field, scoring one more in the bottom of the fifth inning to surrender a 6-5 MSU lead.
Oakland’s coaching staff decided to stick with Balcom for the entirety of the game. Some of her fatigue showed in the bottom of the sixth when she let up a base to four consecutive Spartans, giving up two walks and two singles with one run. OU’s defense bailed her out with a fantastic double play to end the inning.
However, the Golden Grizzlies offense couldn’t provide further support for their starting pitcher, as they failed to score in the game’s final two innings. Oakland would fall 7-5 after giving up three long balls for a combined five runs.
Next up for the Golden Grizzlies is a three-game series against the Green Bay Phoenix at the Oakland Softball Field. The series will start on Friday, March 28, and conclude with a double-header on Saturday, March 29.
Late comeback falls short as Oakland baseball loses to Michigan State
EVAN BLANCHARD
Sports Reporter
The Golden Grizzlies men’s baseball team couldn’t replicate their upset victory from last year over the Michigan State (MSU) Spartans. OU fell 8-5 last Wednesday night at McLane Baseball Stadium in East Lansing on a beautiful late March evening.
It was the final game in a grueling 22-game road stand that stretched from Feb. 14 to March 19. The loss dropped the Golden Grizzlies to a brutal 3-19 on the season, while the Spartans improved to 14-6.
A common theme early this year for Oakland has been letting up massive amounts of runs in the first inning. In their previous game against the Wright State Raiders, OU found themselves down 9-0 after the first frame. It was a similar story in this contest against Michigan State.
Senior Ethan Glassman let up two singles to the first two batters he faced. To his credit, he retired his next two batters: MSU’s Caleb Berry bunted to advance the runners but was out at first, followed by a fly out to right field by Sam Busch that scored the runner on third. With two outs, Glassman threw a wild pitch that got by OU catcher Ben Clark, bringing in another run. In the very next at-bat, Spartan Will Shannon cranked a home run, giving MSU a commanding 3-0 lead.
The Spartans didn’t take long to build on that lead, either. In the bottom of the third, Glassman again allowed his first two batters to reach on a single and a double. The double scored the runner from first, tacking another run onto the lead. Glassman would finish the inning with a groundout that scored the remaining runner after he stole third base. In just the game’s first three innings, OU faced a 5-0 deficit.
The Golden Grizzlies couldn’t get anything going in the first couple innings. They got two men on base in the top of the second before grounding into a double play to end the inning. The offense wouldn’t record a hit until the fourth inning when they got two men on with two singles. Taylor Tomlin drove home Carter Hain for the team’s first run, cutting the Spartan lead to 5-1.
Glassman’s day would come to an end in the fourth inning after allowing a leadoff home run to Spartan shortstop Randy Seymour. Glassman got one out in the frame before giving up a walk, and OU decided to pull him out for reliever Blake Sehlke. In 3.1 innings, Glassman allowed six hits and a walk for seven runs with only a single strikeout. Sehlke would allow another run on a single on the left side, but the run was credited to Glassman as it was his runner.
In the top of the sixth, Oakland’s bats finally started to wake up. Brandon Nigh and Hain hit backto-back doubles, followed by Jack Lux and Tomlin
with consecutive singles. OU scored two runs out of the hot streak, cutting into the Spartan lead and bringing the Golden Grizzlies closer down 7-3.
The offense got right back to it in the top of the eighth. Hain would reach base on a throwing error before Lux took first on a walk, giving Oakland a great chance to come back in the game. After Tomlin fouled out, Boston Halloran and Sam Griffith singled back-to-back for two more runs. With two men on and only one out, Trent Rice and John Lauinger were retired to end the inning. Down 7-5, OU had one more chance to tie the game or take the lead in the ninth.
Oakland would surrender another run in the bottom of the eighth due to a wild pitch, so the deficit grew to three with one last chance to make a run.
Unfortunately for the Golden Grizzlies, MSU’s Tyler Horvath took the mound to end the game and slammed the door on the comeback attempt. Horvath coaxed a pop-up and a foul-out before striking out Hain to end the contest. The Spartans prevailed 8-5 at the end of the night.
Hain led the way for the Golden Grizzlies with two hits in his five plate appearances, scoring three times and recording one RBI. Tomlin also had a productive day with two hits and a walk.
Winners and losers so far: The Post’s March Madness insights
EVAN BLANCHARD AND KURT SZYMANSKI
Evan Blanchard:
To be honest, it hasn’t been a year of Cinderellas. For the most part, the higher-ranked teams have prevailed. I’ll give a shout-out to the Colorado State Rams for taking the Maryland Terrapins to the wire. The Rams hit a huge three to take the lead with just about three seconds left before the Terrapins came down and won it. Freshman Derek Queen slammed the door on the Rams season with a game-winner runner, sending Maryland to the Sweet 16.
As far as disappointment goes, I can’t help but be let down by the St. John’s Red Storm. Before adjusting my bracket a couple of minutes before the games began, I had St. John’s winning it all. Is that dumb on my part? Probably, yeah. But they had such an immaculate season.
They won both the Big East regular season and tournament titles. They also had the coach of the year and player of the year in the conference. It was a historic season for St. John’s, bringing them back into the national spotlight, only to be cut short by John Calipari and the Arkansas Razorbacks. The Red Storm earned a No. 2 seed in March, but it didn’t help them when they faced off against the No. 11 seed Razorbacks.
Kurt Szymanski:
It isn’t easy to choose who’s impressed me the most so far this March. As Evan mentioned, it’s clearly not the year for Cinderellas. Heading into the Sweet 16, just one double-digit seed remains.
Still, the team that has impressed me the most so far is the Michigan Wolverines.
It’s not too shocking to most of the public that the Wolverines have made it this far in the tournament, but I was convinced they’d be first-round exits to the UC San Diego Tritons, and, to be fair, they nearly were, as Michigan won by just three points.
After a sloppy performance from Michigan against the Tritons, I was convinced their season would end to Texas A&M. But it hasn’t. In fact, the Wolverines, who were down by double digits in the second half at one point, defeated the Aggies 91-79. This fact has led to the Wolverines impressing me the most.
At this point, I think most Michiganders are hoping for an Elite Eight matchup between the Wolverines and the Michigan State Spartans, and for the sake of entertainment, I’m here for it.
While not many teams have disappointed so far in the tournament, the Illinois Fighting Illini stand out to me the most. Despite being a No. 6 seed in the Midwest quadrant of the bracket, I chose Illinois to make it to the Final Four, dousing Kentucky, Tennessee and McNeese on their way.
After some convincing wins down the stretch against Purdue and Michigan, combined with a high-scoring offense that scores 83.9 points per game and the effort down low that leads to a team securing the second most rebounds per game in college basketball, I was sold. Illinois had the markings of a great team in March.
However, my hopes that the Fighting Illini would go far were crushed on Sunday. Kentucky led Illinois the entire second half and the final 16 minutes of the first half. While this might not be the end-all disappointing game of the tournament, for me, it has been.
