OU BASEBALL gets back in the win column with wins against the Akron Zips and the Cleary Cougars on March 25 and March 26, respectively. Learn more about both games on pages 18 and 19.
Don Ritenburgh Business Adviser ritenbur@oakland.edu
248.370.2533
PHOTO BY KATIE REID
Student Activities Funding Board proposes bill to separate from Student Congress
ADRIAN JIMENEZ MORALES
Campus Editor
During the March Oakland University Student Congress (OUSC) meetings, the Student Activities Funding Board (SAFB) proposed a bill to separate from OUSC, aimed at increasing their efficiency and autonomy.
“The relationship between the University Student Congress and the Student Activities Funding Board as it is written in the Constitution reflects antiquated needs of the SAFB that are no longer existent,” the SAFB E-Board said in the proposed bill.
According to the OUSC Constitution, SAFB is described as a standing committee of OUSC, however, Nia Matthews, SAFB Co-Chair, explained that this title provides little autonomy for her organization.
“SAFB does not have any voting power; it is basically an honorary member of Student Congress,” Matthews said. “People think SAFB is autonomous because there are checks and balances, but from SAFB’s perspective [OUSC] feels like our boss in a sense, because they have to approve our hirings, approve our budget, approve our bylaws.”
On March 10, after the second formal discussion of SAFB’s proposed change, Matthews presented the tentative action steps to change the relationship between Student Congress and the funding board while still maintaining the checks and balances.
“By working in tandem with our adviser, who is a part of OU faculty and with the proposed Student Organization Funding (SOF) Committee,”
Matthews said, “The Student Activities Funding Board has a plan in place to ensure transparency in our organization through a Student Organization Funding Committee.”
Some legislators shared their concerns with the proposed bill, which was voted against by a majority of the legislature and will be presented again in next year’s OUSC election cycle — March 2026. Questions about ethics, hiring processes and the efficiency of the funding board were the main discussions.
In response, Matthews drafted a nine-point code of ethics and mechanisms to remove board members who may abuse the due process of their authority. She also pointed to the SAFB adviser as an impartial decision-maker who already ensures the objective approval of budget requests and spending.
“In their current form, the University Student Congress and the SAFB operate with separate missions, budgets, advisors, hiring processes, bylaws, member expectations, bondings, and
SAFAC standings,” the bill presented by Matthews said. “The Board utilizes a different standard when determining the rules it makes and its decisions than the University Student Congress which further communicates the levels of separation that already exist.”
This proposal came at a time of many rearrangements for SAFB. With their decrease in funding approved by Student Congress and awaiting approval by the Board of Trustees, SAFB is also waiting for an overall increase in the Student Activities Fund. Over the summer, both the funding board and the Office for Student Involvement (OSI) finance will transition out of GrizzOrgs and will combine financial forms.
“I haven’t really been talking to people who are worried about [the possible budget decrease], but yeah, it definitely is worrying for SAFB,” Matthews said. “When we get allocated, we get allocated every semester based on attendance and every semester, we have been spending more than we receive in allocations, so that cushion is slowly disappearing.”
Matthews explained that with a surplus in reserves after COVID, the funding board has been able to put up with decreases in enrollment or budget adjustments. With that economic cushion decreasing, Matthews did not expect a problem but a change to student organization’s budgets.
Contact safb@oakland.edu with any questions related to upcoming changes, budget requests and funding capabilities.
PHOTO COURTESY OF SAFB
Meet Ethan McMurray: OU student composer’s viral mushroom reel lands international spotlight
MARIA MAGNOLI
Contributor
Social media platforms provide opportunities for individuals to share their voices, and within hours, someone’s life can change entirely. This is what happened a few weeks ago to Oakland University sophomore Ethan McMurray, who recently went viral after posting an Instagram Reel about a mushroom and the magic of music.
The now social media-famous music major spends a lot of his time composing orchestral scores. A seed of inspiration was planted when a fellow music student and friend, Mila Pitman, encouraged McMurray to “orchestrate this NOW” — referring to a popular video of a mushroom that seemingly sings a pentatonic melody as it is being grilled.
received more than 8 million views, hundreds of thousands of likes, comments and shares. Viewers went on to make comments like “I’m telling my future children that he’s Beethoven” and “@disney owes you a phone call,” followed by many GIFs from the Disney film “Mulan.”
When asked about the feedback on the video, McMurray shared, “It was so unexpected! I really just posted the video for fun, so to see all the positive feedback on it was really cool! I also loved hearing everyone’s thoughts about it in the comments. I especially got a kick out of all the comments personifying the mushroom. Overall, I think it was just refreshing to see people so excited about music!” McMurray said.
His mother, Dena McMurray, shared a similar view. “I think it’s incredible that his piece is being shared with so many people. My hope is that it makes lots of people smile. He most definitely brings so much joy to our family through his music.”
Apart from the social media success, the most shocking part of the experience for him was when he was reached out to by NBC and The Today Show’s Joseph Lamour — a reporter who has covered and interviewed the likes of Simone Biles, John Cena, Travis Kelce and many others.
“It didn’t feel real at first. I had only posted the reel a few days prior and I didn’t even know something like that could happen. When I answered his call later that night, he introduced himself by saying ‘Hi! This is Joe with NBC,’ and that was when I really comprehended what was happening. He was such an amazing interviewer and he made my first professional interview really fun!” McMurray remarked.
What may have seemed like a fast path to stardom actually took many years of dedication. The student from Clarkston, Michigan has been studying violin since age four and began writing music at 14. He is an active member of Oakland University’s Chamber Orchestra. He also studies voice and performs with both the Oakland Chorale and Oakland’s Symphony Chorus.
Additionally, he has been in numerous theatrical productions. Most recently, he starred as Tony in “West Side Story” and as the Prince in Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Cinderella.” All of these experiences have helped to shape him stylistically into the composer he is today.
Currently he studies composition under the expertise of his mentor, Terry Herald, who says, “Ethan began private composition lessons with me last year and has made prodigious strides. Our sessions are a pure delight to me as a teacher, since he brings a multitude of fresh ideas to each meeting, sometimes showing me three or four major compositions he has begun that week! His technical skills as an orchestrator have exploded and I look forward to each meeting to hear where his musical imagination has taken him.”
stairs, the commotion of city traffic or, more recently, a caroling mushroom.
In addition to the everyday noises that affect his writing, color also has an influence on his works. Synesthesia, a neurological occurrence present in 2% of the population, has over time not only affected the way he hears music, but the way he writes it as well. The experience itself involves the visualization and association of different colors with various notes, keys, and/or timbres.
“I always have the goal of creating a specific color with my works,” McMurray notes. An additional sphere of inspiration can be traced back to his favorite films like “Harry Potter,” “Cinderella (2015),” “Star Wars” and composers like John Williams, Patrick Doyle and James Newton Howard.
When asked about any current projects, McMurray says, “I’m editing a few pieces I wrote for symphony orchestra. I really hope those could make their way onto programs next season! I’m also beginning work on something different for chamber orchestra that I’m very excited to dive into.”
The reel begins with the mushroom and melodically transitions into a fully-fleshed out symphony orchestra interpretation of the mushroom’s song — one that sounds like the score of a Disney movie.
The caption reads “a little mushroom symphony!!… this was my first time writing in pentatonic and using chinese instruments!” Within a few days, the video
For McMurray, what began as simple violin solos and duets quickly blossomed into full-length symphonic orchestral compositions. His first work, “Dream Theme and Variations,” premiered with the Oakland Youth Symphony’s Philharmonia Orchestra (Wendy Stuart, conductor), but not too long afterwards, his works “Acatalepsy” and “Monomyth” premiered with the Oakland Chamber Orchestra (Zeljko Milicevic, conductor).
His creative process is influenced by the simplest of things as he will find inspiration anywhere: the rhythm someone’s feet produce while climbing
Whether it be a symphony or a 15-second video, McMurray’s work is proving that even in a modern world, classical music still has the power to captivate — especially when it comes from the heart. This viral moment is only an overture to a much larger adventure. Want to see what Ethan composes next? Follow him on Instagram @ethanmcmurray_.
PHOTO COURTESY OF @ETHANMCMURRAY_ ON INSTAGRAM
PHOTO COURTESY OF SCOTT ORSER
Sparkling Diamonds: Meadow Brook Ball 2025
REAGAN REETZ
Marketing Director
Last Friday, the Meadow Brook Ball Committee hosted its annual Meadow Brook Ball with the theme “Sparkling Diamonds.” Inspired by James Bond, attendees could participate in a secret mission set around the world.
Tickets for the event, which was held at the historic Meadow Brook Hall, sold out in a record two days on Feb. 19. Three hundred students had the opportunity to attend, with activities such as photo booths, caricatures, dancing and live music.
“Each room is themed after a different country since, James Bond, he travels the world and does all these spy missions,” Maggie Quinn, a member of the Meadow Brook Ball Committee, said.
Rooms included a Paris-themed dessert room with a charcuterie board in the Christopher Wren Dining Room and a Hong Kong-themed room with Chinese calligraphy set up in Matilda Dodge Wilson’s office. The gothic-inspired ballroom became a dance floor themed to London.
Upon entry, attendees were given a passport book where they could write down fun facts about each country that were hidden around the mansion. If attendees fully filled out their passport, they were able to turn it in for a raffle entry.
For some, the theme brought nostalgia.
“I grew up watching James Bond with my grandma, so I really like the international style,” OU student Erika Head said.
Meadow Brook Hall, a National Historic Landmark located on OU’s campus, provided a unique setting for the ball. Docents were available to provide information about the estate during selfguided tours, and the activities were seamlessly integrated into the property.
Initially called the “Scholarship Ball,” Meadow Brook Ball has existed in some capacity since 1961. Although the fundraising elements have dissipated, the event has remained a staple of campus life each year.
OU student Jackson Brower shared that his favorite part of the ball was the historical elements.
“It’s very cool having the event at somewhere that holds so much local and university history,”
Brower said. “I thought that the event was very fun, there were a lot of different things to do to entertain everyone.”
Connections to the estate itself were a common theme among attendees. Head works at Meadow Brook Ball, as does fellow OU student Andrea Haslett.
“I love Meadow Brook. It’s my third year coming and I actually work in Meadow Brook as a visitor service assistant and tour guide so I love it,” Head said. “It makes me feel like I’m living out all of my fantasy ball dreams.”
Haslett shared a similar sentiment, drawing on her own experiences at the estate.
“I work here over the summer for the writing project, so it’s fun to be back in here, and I have all the little facts to tell my friends and stuff,” Haslett said. “I like seeing the manor.”
The planning process for Meadow Brook Ball begins months in advance, with committee members carefully crafting a theme, coordinating activities and ensuring every detail complements the historic venue.
For Quinn, she sees it as “prom, but better,” with the opportunity to help plan an event where she can have fun with her friends, whether they are fellow committee members or guests that she has invited. Ultimately, she hopes that it leaves a positive impression on the campus community.
“It creates a legacy that OU is a very social place, there’s always something going on,” Quinn said. “That’s the impression that I hope it leaves.”
PHOTO BY MATTHEW VIGELIUS
OU’s Diverse Dental Society: Candle and clay painting
DANIELA CESARIO Features Reporter
On Thursday, March 27, the Diverse Dental Society at Oakland University hosted a candle and clay painting event aimed at enhancing the manual dexterity of aspiring dental professionals. The gathering provided students with a creative outlet to unwind while honing essential skills for their future careers. The event also served as an opportunity to raise awareness about the society and encourage new memberships.
“Engaging in activities like candle and clay painting helps us develop the fine motor skills crucial for dentistry,” freshman Layan George said. “It’s also a fun way to relax and connect with peers who share similar career aspirations. I really enjoy all the fun things we get to do as a part of this society.”
The society has been proactive in organizing events that combine skill development with community service. Recently, members packed hygiene care bags for children in need, emphasizing the importance of dental health from a young age. These initiatives not only contribute to the community but also provide students with practical experiences that complement their academic studies.
“We aim to reach as many people as possible,” junior Leen Said 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.”
The candle and clay painting event aligns with
the society’s mission to guide pre-dental and prehygiene students through their undergraduate years, offering resources and activities that foster both professional and personal growth. By integrating creative endeavors into their programming, the society underscores the multifaceted skill set required in the dental profession. Such events highlight the importance of dexterity, precision and an artistic eye in dental practices.
“Participating in these creative activities allows us to see the artistic side of dentistry,” George said. “It’s not just about science; there’s a significant art component in crafting dental solutions that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.”
Looking ahead, the Diverse Dental Society plans to host more events that blend skill enhancement with community engagement. By doing so, they hope to continue building a supportive network for students pursuing careers in dentistry. These initiatives not only prepare students for the technical aspects of their future roles but also instill a sense of social responsibility and community involvement.
“This is just the beginning,” George said. “We have so many ideas for ways to support our community. It’s amazing to be part of something bigger than myself. I think that spreading awareness for better dental care is really important and I am glad to do my part.”
The society welcomes all students passionate about dentistry and eager to make a positive impact both on campus and in the wider community. Their ongoing efforts exemplify the proactive spirit of Oakland University’s student organizations.
“Helping others is at the heart of what we do,” Said 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.”
For those interested in joining or learning more about the Diverse Dental Society, information is available on their Instagram page, @ddsou.
OU psychology student helps those recovering from addiction
MALLORY WALIGORA
Political Editor
For some students, an internship is a dreaded requirement for graduation. However, for one OU student, her internship is a way for her to make a real impact.
Alivia Wood is a senior pursuing a degree in psychology with a minor in criminal justice. During her last semester at OU, she chose to take a fieldwork capstone class, even though it is not required for her major.
“I thought that it would be a good idea for me,” Wood said. “Also, I really wanted to get out there. I wanted to start helping people the best I could, as someone with just a bachelor’s degree.”
In January, Wood began an internship with Face Addiction Now, a Michigan non-profit organization in Macomb County that serves as a resource to help those on their journey to recovery from addiction. The organization provides education, treatment and support networks to those in need.
Wood works at the call center, making follow-up calls to ensure individuals in recovery have the necessary support and are on track to recovery.
“We have 30-day, 90-day, four months, six months and a year of follow up,” Wood said. “Maybe you had a situation where you might have relapsed, and you don’t know what to do. I give them our hope line number, I give them information and when they’re ready, they’ll call us and ask about what we can provide for them. It’s to make sure people know we’re here for them. We want to connect with you. A lot of
these people, they don’t have anyone to fall back on. They don’t have any help.”
When people call requesting support, employees will connect the callers to treatment in their area. Additionally, her job includes connecting people with rides to treatment centers.
“We deal with a lot of homeless people,” she said. “We provide them with rides. We’ll use taxi services, our own private drivers, Uber, Lyft, anything we have
in our budget in order to get people to treatment.” Wood stressed the positive work environment while at her internship.
“The job has been wonderful, and people in the office are wonderful. It is a beautiful office space. Everyone’s so kind and respectful, and there’s a big value on mental health,” Wood said.
“95% of the people who work here are people in recovery. Left and right, there’s recovery stories,” Wood said. “People who lived through this are people who are working here and working to help.”
Through this internship, Wood gets to hear realworld stories of people’s experiences.
“You learn so much from the people who work there who have experienced this, when I’m on the phone with people, when I do the follow up calls, I will hear people’s lives and their stories, and it’s just like, it kind of really opened up my worldview more than what I read in the textbook,” Wood said.
In the future, Wood hopes to obtain her master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling and obtain her licensure. She hopes to expand her focus on addiction beyond substance use to a field such as video game addiction.
“Alivia Wood is doing the Lord’s work helping those who have struggled with addiction get back to a healthy lifestyle. I’m very grateful that people like her exist in the world,” Robert Quigley, a friend of Wood, said.
If struggling with addiction, the OU Counseling Center can provide support. The Grizz Recovery Program also provides support for students who are in or exploring recovery from addiction.
PHOTO COURTESY OF ALIVIA WOOD
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE DIVERSE DENTAL SOCIETY
Students react to Conan Gray’s new single ‘Bed Rest’
DANIELA CESARIO
Features Reporter
Conan Gray’s latest single, “Bed Rest,” released on March 19, 2025, as part of the fiveyear anniversary edition of his debut album, “Kid Krow, Decomposed,” has captivated his fans nationwide. This introspective song delves into themes of regret and emotional exhaustion, resonating deeply with listeners.
“Listening to ‘Bed Rest’ I realized that it was a very sad song and I was not expecting it to be,” sophomore Ava Suffredini said. “The vulnerability in his lyrics is what makes him so intense to listen to.”
In addition to “Bed Rest,” Gray’s earlier release, “Holidays,” debuted on Oct. 18, 2024, marking his first new music since his third studio album, “Found Heaven.” The track explores the bittersweet nature of holiday seasons, blending nostalgia with contemporary pop sensibilities.
“I am really hoping Conan releases more new songs or even an album,” freshman Farah Alhasan said. “I didn’t get to go to his last concert when he went on tour for ‘Found Heaven,’ but if he releases another album I really hope a tour follows.”
The new release, “Bed Rest,” follows a similar tune to the song “Astronomy,” a melancholic single that delves into the gradual drifting apart of relationships. Its introspective lyrics and haunting melody really resonate with his fans
who are navigating evolving friendships and personal growth.
“When I first heard ‘Bed Rest,’ it felt like Conan had put my feelings into words,” Suffredini said. “I remember when his music was really sad and slow, then he started making more upbeat music like the ‘Found Heaven’ album, all of it is really good.”
Gray’s third studio album, “Found Heaven,” released on April 5, 2024, showcases his evolution as an artist, blending 1980s-inspired sounds with modern narratives. Tracks like “Miss You” and “Eye Of The Night” have been praised for their lyrical depth and nostalgic vibes. Students have embraced the album’s fusion of retro aesthetics and
contemporary themes.
“Listening to ‘Found Heaven’ you can just hear the difference in instruments from ‘Kid Krow,’” Alhasan said. “Conan’s ability to merge vintage sounds with stories that resonate today is truly impressive. I think that it all goes together really well, with how talented he is as an artist.”
Gray’s earlier works, including his debut album “Kid Krow,” have also left a lasting impact on his audiences. Songs like “Wish You Were Sober” and “The Story” continue to be anthems for many grappling with the complexities of young adulthood. His music serves as a soundtrack for many navigating the challenges and triumphs of all kinds of different things.
“Conan’s music has been with me throughout my college journey,” Suffredini said. “His songs articulate the highs and lows we’ve all felt but couldn’t always express. I hope he continues to release songs that are more meaningful and personal to him.”
As Conan Gray continues to release music that resonates with his community and fanbase, his ability to articulate the intricacies of young adulthood remains unparalleled. His followers can find understanding in his melodies and lyrics. Gray’s artistry not only entertains but also fosters a sense of unity among listeners navigating similar experiences.
PHOTO COURTESY OF CONANGRAYVEVO
From Eastern Europe to South America: ‘Democracy’s Resilience to Populism’s Threat’
MATILDE RABAJOLI Campus Reporter
On Mar. 26, Oakland’s Meadow Brook Hall hosted a presentation by Dr. Kurt Weyland regarding his 2024 book of “Democracy’s Resilience to Populism’s Threat.”
An early dinner was held for invited political science faculty and students. Then the event moved to a beautiful presentation room where refreshments and desserts were offered to the newly arrived attendees. The main event of Weyland’s presentation was held in under 90 minutes, where he was also able to take questions from the audience.
Weyland has “a Staatsexamen from JohannesGutenberg Universität Mainz in 1984, a M.A. from UT in 1986, and a Ph.D. from Stanford University in 1991,” his biography from the website of the University of Texas (UT) at Austin, where he currently teaches in the College of Liberal Arts, states.
An expert on various political topics, Weyland has focused his expertise on the governments and politics of South America and Europe. “He has drawn on a range of theoretical and methodological approaches, including insights from cognitive psychology, and has done extensive field research in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Peru, and Venezuela,” his UT biography states.
His latest book, which he published through the Cambridge University Press in January of 2024, “Counter Global Alarmism,” explores the question of whether democracies are truly in danger from
populist regimes. Populism is a political science theory that correlates with the relationship of “the people vs the elites” in a society. It is often characterized by a charismatic leader that gains popular favor for their ideas and turns that influence into dismantling parts of government that represent democracy.
During his talk, Weyland discusses that states will be more likely to attract Populism when there are the right conjunctions that will mix with institutional issues. He provides three out of the 40 examples he discusses in his book, including
examples from both Europe and South America. He presented his findings in a manner that held humor, terminology that was inclusive to the non-political science-oriented attendees and an easy-to-follow narrative structure.
He concluded his presentation by stating his final assessment of the state of populism in the world. He stated that though recent years there have been some worrisome populist regimes in the areas he has studied, many more have failed to obtain power than those that have, and that statistically, democracies have prevailed against populists regimes and have very rarely been destroyed. Therefore, the title of his book is more evident in that democracy has been resilient to populism in Latin American and European countries.
Attendees then proceeded to question Weyland on the current state of specific Latin states and the United States as well. Many inquiries were made about various countries that held populist candidates for recent elections and how President Donald Trump has faced similar accusations, to which Weyland relayed his professional opinions on how certain regimes may play out.
For more information on Weyland’s research about social policy and diffusion, read his book “Democracy’s Resilience to Populism’s Threat” or look into his various articles that discuss more concentrated information on specific countries of interest.
Baker and business owner behind Detroit Lions cake shares her story with OU students
Local baker and small business owner Heather Tocco visited Oakland University to share her story with students.
Heather Tocco, who owns Home Bakery in Downtown Rochester, started decorating cakes as a hobby but quickly found a natural aptitude. She started off by just baking cakes for family and friends, but quickly realized she had found her passion. Six months after first testing her skills, she bought Home Bakery, which at the time was up for sale and in need of a major rework. As she made the business her own, she started creating detailed window displays out of cake.
It was not until January 2025 that Tocco’s displays would truly be appreciated. In the midst of NFL playoffs, she and her team made a life-size cake of Amon-Ra St. Brown’s headstand touchdown celebration. The cake became an overnight sensation and even reached St. Brown’s, as well as the rest of the Detroit Lions. Fans came from all over to see this work of Detroit pride and experience Home Bakery’s decadent sweets. The cake made national headlines, was featured on ESPN and attracted visitors from across the Tri-County area. Even Michigan governor, Gretchen Whitmer, visited the viral display.
On March 20, Home Bakery owner Heather Tocco visited OU Introduction to Public Relations class to share her success story.
Upon achieving fame status, Tocco was enchanted
by the world of public relations — something she had never fully experienced. As her story spread from journalist to journalist, she learned the true art of storytelling. Heather was given the opportunity to engage with newspaper articles, radio shows, social media and television interviews. This experience was overwhelming for her, but nonetheless she did not back down.
Today, Home Bakery is still the talk of the town after it put Rochester on the map. Tocco plans to continue this momentum and local community by creating more window displays in the coming months. She also intends to make another display for the Detroit Lions next season.
On March 20, OU associate professor of public relations Chiaoning Su invited Heather Tocco to speak to OU’s Introduction to Public Relations class and share her experience in the media spotlight. She discussed how this experience benefited her business beyond the 50% sales increase Home Bakery saw in January. Tocco knew that something this big would allow her to offer her employees consistent hours and even health benefits during the slow winter months. Heather brought the class fresh kronuts from her bakery.
When talking about the team effort at the Home Bakery, Tocco said, “It’s about everyone in those walls … I am not me without them.” She expressed her deepest gratitude for those who she works alongside, attributing her success to everyone who has a hand on the business.
Oakland students responded by sharing practical ways Home Bakery can maximize business through
various PR tactics. Students suggested using social media, attending community events and even doing a suggestion box for future window displays. Heather even brought the class kronuts — croissant-donuts that are one of the business’s best sellers. Both Tocco and students left class excited about the mutual exchange of insight that occurred.
Home Bakery is located on Main Street in downtown Rochester, just a few miles from campus. They can be found on Instagram at @homebakeryroch.
AVA WEBB Photographer
PHOTO COURTESY OF HOME BAKERY
In January, Michigan governor Gretchen Whitmer visited Home Bakery and was photographed with the famous cake.
PHOTO BY ADRIAN JIMENEZ MORALES
With the help of Sabin, a Drag Queen host at Oakland University for 13 years, the Oakland Center submerged itself in the 20th edition of the Annual Drag Show.
With an under-the-sea theme, SAGE welcomed 10 drag performers — professional and amateur, new and known — to celebrate a now traditional show at OU on March 25.
“My favorite part, for sure, was the decorations,” Claire Childers, SAGE president, said. “I personally stayed up until 4 a.m. like six days in a row, working the day before the drag show. I was up all night, which sounds like it would not be fun, but it was such a fun experience with friends.”
Although foam Ursula was crafted at the last minute, Childers explained that planning for the annual drag show takes a year and is consolidated in a month of coordination and student auditions.
“It is so important to have these kinds of events on campus because it shows that our community is out there,” Childers said. “For our community members, they feel represented, but it is also for everyone else to see that we exist and we’re doing big things.”
Sabin opened up the stage with the first of her three numbers. However, Sir Guy kicked off the ocean atmosphere with the Little Mermaid theme.
“’I’m like a secret Disney adult, so obviously I had to bring out ‘Under the Sea,’ Little Mermaid, but add my own little pop-punk twist to it because Sir Guy is a poppunk kind of guy,” recurring performer Sir Guy said.
Like them, Cosmo Hart crafted his enthusiastic number with Avril Lavinge’s “Girlfriend.” Lansing-Based Miss Golden O’Hara-Polo delighted the audience with a Beyonce-inspired performance.
“She passed the [bar] exam for the first time and that’s only one reason why she’s amazing,” Sage said to introduce Miss Golden O’Hara-Polo. “She’s currently working in Lansing, doing work on immigration cases to make sure that people are safe.”
Continuing with the classics, Hym had students dancing to Gaga’s “Alejandro” while third-year performer, Bartholomew Frost, turned the audience static with Britney Spears’ “Toxic.”
“My favorite part of the show is always Sabin,” Bartholomew Frost, OU student, said. “She gave me advice backstage, and she’s an amazing performer, and I’m so glad to have been able to work with her multiple years in a row.”
Under the heat of an incandescent light, with poetic strides and gaze, Sabin delivered a cathartic performance of Sade’s “Is It A Crime.” In a display of crowd work, she contrasted her theatrical range with dashing jokes and social reflections.
“A lot of people want us to go back into a closet,” Sabin said. “There isn’t a walk-in closet big enough that I will ever walk back into … I saw someone look at my T-shirt, and my instinct was to zip up my hoodie. I got inside my car, and I was furious at myself because I allowed them to make me uncomfortable, and I made a vow in that moment that I will live my life unapologetically gay.”
In the Melodramatic tone of the performances, Whitney Naomi shook the audience to the rhythm of Laura Branigan’s “Gloria.” In a swift subversion of the mood, Crucifella led a Lighting McQueen number.
“Put yourself out there if you’re nervous, that makes it kind of more fun, because something just takes over,” Crucifella said about her experience with drag. “You don’t have to be good at dance, you don’t have to be good at makeup. You just do it. It’s something that anybody can have, and it’s something that the queer community has championed as a core thing.”
Closing the first part of the performances, Prince Marsallis returned to the pop vein in “Cake By The Ocean” and bright costumes. With a perfect mix of spacey fantasy and Ghibli charm of a costume, Pluto brought the ocean theme to life.
“I’m really proud and really happy with how, with how it turned out this year,” Childers said. “There was a great turnout, people seemed to be very happy, that makes me happy.”
‘The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie’ is 2D animation perfected
NOAH FRANCIS
Features Editor
“The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie,” released on March 14, 2025, is a brand new 2D animated film directed by Pete Browngardt, and distributed through Ketchup Entertainment. Despite a low marketing budget, “Looney Tunes” returns to the big screen as looney as ever.
Story
This sci-fi inspired story follows Daffy Duck and Porky Pig growing up as siblings, looking to scrape up enough money to fix their roof that has mysteriously broken apart through the night. Meeting Petunia Pig, a taste scientist working at the local gum factory, the dynamic duo start to work in the gum factory, leading to a complete alien takeover of earth. With Daffy, Porky and Petunia as the last non-brainwashed beings on earth, it is up to them to save the world from bubblegum-fused aliens.
Characters
While Porky Pig is still the same pants-less, overthinking and stuttering pig we know from throughout “Looney Tunes” history, this Daffy Duck is less of the grumpy, fame-craving, selfish duck we have seen in recent representations. Daffy Duck is a chaotic and misguided duck who means well and has his friends at heart, harkening back to the original cartoon Daffy, who was more looney and less mad.
“In the early black-and-white Clampett, they lived together and they don’t always want to kill each other,” Browngardt said in an interview with The
Moveable Fest. “Porky and Daffy have the Yin and Yang personality like Abbott and Costello, so it made it a little bit easier to say, ‘Okay, I can make a movie out with them, I can tell a larger story with them because they have a relationship and you can put that through its paces.’”
Surprisingly, both characters are developed through the course of the movie, understanding their flaws and growing closer as brothers. Seeing Daffy take a step back from running head first into a problem, and seeing Porky actively thinking on his feet would almost be a surreal experience if the movie didn’t properly build their characters up to that point.
Animation
After seeing shows such as “Invincible” season 3 and “Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man” this year, we are slowly accepting mediocre animation for classic franchises. In an era where the animation industry is being mistreated, and animation is on a decline, “The Day the Earth Blew Up” is a breath of fresh air, with beautiful hand-drawn art, fluid animation all throughout and scenes that deviate from the set art style in creative ways.
Comedy
Despite a few topical jokes riddled throughout the film, all of the slapstick hijinks feels right at home with the older “Looney Tunes” comedy. From fourthwall breaks and jokes that go over children’s heads, to Daffy wrecking everything in sight with a giant mallet, there are jokes for everyone in the audience.
Conclusion
“The Day the Earth Blew Up” is a love letter to old “Looney Tunes” cartoons, and a breath of fresh air for
fans of the animation industry. Whether you grew up watching the original “Looney Tunes” cartoons, or you haven’t seen them a day in your life, just about any viewer can find some enjoyment out of the story, the comedy, or the characters. Despite some scenes running just a tad too long, the film is a welcomed return for the “Looney Tunes” to the big screen.
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
PHOTO COURTESY OF IMDB
Ariana Grande floats from grief to acceptance in her new deluxe album
MORGAN WARNEKE Content Editor
On March 28, Ariana Grande released the deluxe edition of her 2024 album, “eternal sunshine.” The extended version, titled “eternal sunshine deluxe: brighter days ahead,” features six new tracks, accompanied by a short documentary.
As someone who really enjoyed her latest project, I was heavily anticipating the continuation to a record that’s based around new beginnings. However, deluxe editions are tricky — will they enrich the original version or prove why they didn’t make the cut? Let’s find out.
The deluxe cover depicts Grande surrounded by darkness, floating on her back towards the light, which we can assume represents the “better days.”
This project is riddled with references to the 2004 film “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind,” in which the protagonists (Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet) realize the importance of their relationship while undergoing an irreversible procedure to permanently erase their shared memories.
The first track, “intro: end of the world - extended” continues the airy, peaceful aroma that enraptures the original version. Although the lyrics seem to take a darker turn, going from feeling hopeful about a new relationship to grieving a past one. Grande sings, “I broke your heart because you broke mine” but ends on an empowering note with “I wish I could un-need ya, so I did.”
The next track, “twilight zone,” continues this
dreamlike state while the lyrics still reflect the mourning of the past relationship, with lines like “I just can’t believe you happened” and “Hope you win for best actor/’Cause I had you completely wrong.” Ouch.
The soft direction the deluxe is headed in makes me wonder if Grande is going to do any of the belts that she’s so well known for — will there be any radio hits like “yes, and” or “the boy is mine”? The lack of catchy beats or repetitive hooks makes me think that this deluxe is meant to be analyzed for its lyricism — which seems to point a lot towards her very public romance with Wicked co-star, Ethan Slater.
The next track, “warm,” felt underwhelming. Though
Music leaks between artists and fans
SOPHIA CURRAN
Features Reporter
On March 14, MMA Fighter Payton Talbott posted a Youtube video titled, “BPPV IX,” where he shared the aftermath of a UFC 311 loss, ending a nine win streak. In that video, fans noticed a 35-second clip suspected to be from musician Frank Ocean, making it the first time he released something following singles “Dear April” and “Cayendo” in 2020.
Small releases from artists such as Frank Ocean excites fans and creates optimism for future releases. While the snippet was presumably approved with Talbott, songs and albums being leaked can result in strained relationships between fans and the artists.
In 2017, ahead of the release of singer Charli XCX’s third album, the project was leaked online by a hacker. The whole album ended up being scrapped after Charli expressed the betrayal it caused. Following the leak, she reflected on the moment with Noisey, and discussed how she jumped back from the moment.
“My email got hacked and people leaked most of it, so I think I’m just going to start again,” Charli said. “But that’s fun for me, anyway. I write fast so I’m not really worried about anything.”
However, since the interview, she discussed her
changing perspective on the moment.
“It felt like an invasion of my life, my personal space, my personal property. It was just really sad, and I was really hurt,” Charli said in an interview with ES Magazine in 2019.
This is not the only time an artist has had their work stolen by hackers or fans anticipating work from the artist. Popular artists must face the worry that their work will be hacked and released to the public ahead of anticipated releases.
In an interview with Zach Sang in 2024, pop singer Ariana Grande discussed her unreleased song “Fantasize,” which was ultimately leaked to the public as well. She expressed why she didn’t want the song to be released.
“So ‘Fantasize’ was stolen, these pirates. I’ll pay you more to put it away and to get it back,” Grande said. “Well that wasn’t my song, for me it was like a parody of a 90s girl group vibe, but [fans] loved it.”
As a result of the praise for the song, she incorporated similar sounds to her new album, “eternal sunshine.” Although the release was against Grande’s approval, the support for the song led to more creative projection in her new album.
Billie Eilish expressed her reaction to the leak of a verse in her song “Ken.” The snippet was a verse that she made when she was 14 with two
it’s focused on a new relationship and the excitement of learning more about each other, the repetitive nature of the lyrics accompanied by the generic production made it easily forgettable. I wanted something more attentiongrabbing, perhaps a ballad, and “dandelion” delivered. This fun track starts with a horn, which is unlike anything I’ve heard from Grande before. Its introduction is very jazzy, accompanied by drums and concluded with layered vocals. The lyrics offer a more optimistic perspective, focused on falling in love with someone new. We seem to be transitioning from grief into acceptance.
Meanwhile, the next track, “past life,” quickly claimed its spot as my favorite on the deluxe edition. Grande ditches the whispery voice and shows us the vocal range that she’s known for. This sounds like the moving on anthem, with lyrics like “I’m fine to leave you in the past life.” As I listened, all I could think was that it should have been on the original version.
Surprisingly, the deluxe edition ends with a strippeddown ballad called “Hampstead.” This is referring to the town that Grande lived in while filming “Wicked: Part I.”
This is a beautiful conclusion to a project about accepting both the joy and heartbreak that come with relationships. My favorite lyric is “What’s wrong with a little bit of poison? Tell me/I would rather feel everything than nothing every time.”
While “eternal sunshine deluxe: brighter days ahead” didn’t necessarily step out of the boundaries of the original version, the deluxe edition is equally as thorough and heartfelt, making it a reflective and relatable listen.
other producers. She discussed the incident in an interview with Stationhead in 2024.
“Gotta love ya — it’s all love,” Eilish said when addressing her fans. “Imagine you had something you made like a thousand years ago and no one was ever supposed to hear it. Now it’s viral on TikTok — it’s hilarious.”
While these small releases may feed fans who admire their favorite artists, musicians must face the fear of their work being released without their consent—just to satisfy listeners.
PHOTO COURTESY OF GLAMOUR
PHOTO COURTESY OF GENIUS
OUSC hosts vice presidential debate
SOPHIA CURRAN
Features Reporter
On March 27, Oakland University Student Congress (OUSC) hosted a debate for the upcoming election. There are three presidential slates, each of which has a vice-presidential candidate.
Nia Matthews is the vice-presidential candidate for the Johnson-Matthews slate. Malachi Cattanach is the vice-presidential candidate for the Smith-Cattanach slate. Allison Drzewiecki is the vice-presidential candidate for the Smith-Drzewiecki slate.
Voting will start on March 31 and run until April 4.
“With the rising cost of higher education, what specific initiatives would you propose to make college more affordable, especially for students from low-income backgrounds?”
“I think we should work with the Board of Trustees to go to Lansing and work with our state legislators to increase funding for public universities. I think we also need to revise the Pell Grant to cover more low income families, as well as our school currently is receiving the maximum funding from the state, and our tuition has raised — risen over 4% — so I think that we need efficiency investigations, just because why aren’t we getting the maximum amount of funding, and our tuition is still rising?” Cattanach said.
“So, on the topic of affordability, our slate has been working on reevaluating scholarships and financial aid each year so that it could be up for revision — could get more aid each year, especially with those merit-based scholarships that are stuck with you for four years. We’re working on revising that, we have Ora Pescovitz’s support in this we also are working on continuing to provide free menstrual products for our students here on campus. We have free lower cost Plan B for students. We are working towards lower cost course materials — free to no cost — as well as free test packs for things like LSATs or grad school exams,” Drzewiecki said.
“For me, in my experience going here, tuition has raised, and that’s one of the reasons why I’m currently at home and not living on campus. I think that scholarships is one of the main ways that students are able to afford college, and I think that as someone who has applied to scholarships every single year and have not gotten any new scholarships, that’s something that we definitely need to work on in talking about how we are ensuring that students know what they’re doing ‘wrong,’ and so we know how to get scholarships in the future. I think that working with the financial aid office will help with that, and facilitating workshops would also help raise the awareness of what students need to do to get that money because they deserve it, and I want to know why I’m not getting that money. So, thank you,” Matthews said.
“OUSC aims to support the student body, yet many organizations feel their voices go unheard. How will your slate ensure that all campus organizations have the resources and opportunities they need to thrive?”
“I think that hosting weekly campus committees such as — well, I think that holding campus committees with organizations and with these students’ representatives is the best way to do this. Also hosting monthly town halls, where people can feel heard, and people can voice their concerns and opinions and suggestions is one of the ways that we can make sure that we’re doing everything for them that we can and that is within our power. I think
that having the representation and making sure they show up — because I know that’s another thing, making sure everyone is able to show up and attend those meetings is one of the reasons why students don’t — because, you know, it’s not based on their availability. It’s based on the ability of the people who are usually hosting the meeting. And so just making sure that everyone has a voice, and even if it’s not at that meeting, it’s within emails, it’s within discord, it’s within some type of communication way that we are able to hear their voices,” Matthews said.
“Well, I acknowledge that many organizations and students on campus feel that their voice cannot be heard through Student Congress. My plan for increasing their visibility is to encourage and promote better general assemblies, which have liaison positions for every major group on campus. The only issue is, right now they’re not showing up. So, if elected, I hope to promote this — the General Assembly, more where organizations on campus get a vote, they get a say, they get to give their reports to Student Congress, as well as I also would promote just students showing up to general body means. I know it is an issue that students feel like they can’t be heard at general body meetings, and I would work to change some legislation to get that more suitable for students. Thank you,” Drzewiecki said.
“Let’s be honest here, when you hear the name ‘town hall’ as a student, do you really want to go to it? I, to be quite honest, I don’t — that doesn’t sound very interesting or fun. And we care about — J. Cooper and I — care about making every student’s voice feel like they’re heard. And so I think that we need to host, maybe, like weekly or bi-weekly events where we just give a fun name, like ‘Pizza and Policy’ or something like that, and devote part of the OUSC funding to pay for pizza, to bring students in, something fun, and then have like, some sort of anonymous box where they can write their opinion on the bills that are up for voting, and to build to give your opinion on it and or even just speak with us personally. I also think that we need to give Greek life more of a voice and voting rights,” Cattanach said.
“The Student Activities Funding Board (SAFB) is the organization that allocates funding to registered student organizations. In recent months, many changes have been brought to the legislators regarding SAFB. SAFB is currently overseen by the Student Congress, managerially and judicial, judiciary as a form of accountability. How do you envision the relationship management of SAFB and OUSC moving forward with the goals of both student engagement and proper accountability for SAFB?
“Personally, I think that OUSC should relinquish control over SAFB. I think SAFB is not covered — is not like overseen over OUSC. I think that we should have less oversight, but we should have a liaison to make sure that there is accountability, and that’s my point,” Cattanach said.
“So, there’s been a lot of changes proposed regarding Student Congress and SAFB, and while I do support reforms regarding OUSC and SAFB’s relationship, I do not think a full cut-off is necessary or warranted, given the large budget SAFB has control over. Checks and balances in democracy are definitely at risk if that does happen. So, my proposal would be to maybe fix some efficiency issues that SAFB is currently seeing and ensure that Student Congress is acting in students’ best interest
— talking to students, making sure that we’re acting with their best interests in mind. But I don’t think a full release of SAFB from Student Congress is necessary,” Drzewiecki said.
“As someone who is currently in SAFB, I have a lot of opinions on this matter that I will choose not to say at this moment. And for professionalism’s sake, I would say me, personally, I would stick to a strictly advisory role, as I do have my opinions about this matter. And, I would say that if they ever needed support from me or from OUSC, I will be more than happy to give it. Thank you,” Matthews said.
“Health and Safety encompasses both physical and mental well-being, which are crucial to student success, both inside and outside of the classroom. How do you plan to support and improve mental health resources and initiatives on campus?”
“I think one of the biggest things that student college has already done is ‘Mindful Mondays,’ I would be very happy to continue that event. But also, I think one of the biggest things on our platform that we want to institute is mental health days off, where we’re working with the Provost Office and the Teachers Professors Union to institute — to institutionalize — mental health days, because mental health is real, and mental health makes people not want to go to class. You know, sometimes I just need a day off. Sometimes I need a break. And I think that having those institutionalized excused absences for mental health is something that is truly needed within our student body. And I think that working with, like I said, the Provost’s Office and the Teachers Union to institutionalize this is probably the best way to go. Thank you,” Matthews said.
“I personally think students need to be made more aware of their mental health services that are here, speaking from my own experience. You know, as a guy, we don’t like to talk about our feelings, and, you know, I thought that we had to bottle them up. And then, I really started to realize that, you know, this crap sucks, life sucks. I think that when you — and the male suicide rate is the highest in the nation right now — I think that another thing that we need to do is we need to maybe, like theme months, like, like, ‘Men’s Mental Health Month,’ ‘Women’s Mental Health Month,’ etc., just to bring more awareness to that mental health is a big problem in our country right now and to campus. I think we also need to look into increasing more resources for mental health services on our campus,” Cattanach said.
“My plan to address mental health on campus would be, first and foremost, to strengthen and bolster what we already have going with the Graham Health Center and the free sessions we have through UWill online service. That came from the Student Congress initiative. I also, as student body Vice President with a close relationship with Student Congress legislature, would want to encourage the members — that have already mentioned in their speeches — passion for mental health crises here on campus, possibly create a committee with them and work towards seeing what issues we have right now on campus, getting student feedback with what they are having trouble with through the Graham Health Center and taking that into account when creating these programs and strengthening them. Thank you,” Drzewiecki said.
Hegseth accidentally leaks Yemen airstrike plans with journalist
MEGHAN BAREIS Political Reporter
United States Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has made headlines after exposing Yemen airstrike plans to a group chat with the Editor-in-Chief of the Atlantic Journal. Hegseth mistakenly added Jeffery Goldberg to the signal chat, revealing detailed attack plans on Houthi rebels.
Goldberg was exposed to specific information including precise targets, weapons packages and important timelines of the operation.
The leak was made public in a story on March 24, written by Jeffery Goldberg, the receiver of such text messages from the Signal group chat. The article shows Goldberg’s surprise and confusion upon reading texts between senior officials that revealed details about the airstrike attacks just two hours before they occurred.
“The world found out shortly before 2 p.m. eastern time on March 15 that the United States was bombing Houthi targets across Yemen. I, however, knew two hours before the first bombs exploded that the attack might be coming. The reason I knew this is that Pete Hegseth, the secretary of defense, had texted me the war plan at 11:44 a.m.” Goldberg wrote.
The incident raises national security concerns about information handling and the potential federal law violations due to internal communication failure. The accidental shared information has raised many questions about whether the content in the texts was classified information.
Hegseth has remained quiet since the incident,
interacting with the press at a minuscule level. Before his trip to Hawaii, he blatantly dismissed allegations of exposing classified material. “Nobody was texting war plans and that’s all I have to say about that,” Hegseth told reporters. Additionally, he detested Goldberg, saying that he is “deceitful and highly discredited.”
Hegseth’s spokesman, Sean Parnell, said that “there were no classified materials or war plans shared. The secretary was merely updating the group on a plan that was underway,” in a statement on Wednesday, March 26.
Other internal reactions came from various Trump administration officials. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said that no classified information was leaked, while former Defense Secretary and CIA Director Leon
Panetta told CNN that “somebody needs to get fired.”
“How the name of a journalist was added to that list — this is just a serious blunder,” Panetta said, pointing out that if someone other than Goldberg had been included, they “could reveal this information immediately to the Houthis in Yemen that they were about to be attacked and they in turn could have … attacked US facilities in the Red Sea, causing casualties of our troops.”
When questioned about the incident by a reporter, Trump stated, “I don’t know anything about it. I’m not a big fan of The Atlantic. It’s, to me, a magazine that’s going out of business. I think it’s not much of a magazine. But I know nothing about it.”
The incident raises the possibility of violations against the Espionage Act. The act states “Whoever, when the United States is at war, shall wilfully make or convey false reports or false statements with intent to interfere with the operation or success of the military or naval forces of the United States” will be criminalized for the mishandling of national defense information. Signal, although encrypted, is not approved for classified military communication. Despite the ongoing debate regarding the information being classified, the Signal app appears to be unreliable. Just one day before the attacks were launched, The U.S. Department of Defense had warned about Russian hacking attempts on Signal.
The magazine and Goldberg made various attempts to contact the White House both prior and after the publication to confirm that the release of the texts wouldn’t result in negative consequences.
On March 26, the Supreme Court of the United States ruled in favor 7-2 of upholding regulations on ghost guns that were established during former President Biden’s administration.
Ghost guns are a form of weapon that is sold in kits online to people who take the parts and assemble a gun with it. Ghost guns lack the serial number that other guns have, making it extremely difficult to trace back to an individual purchaser.
Due to the lack of regulation, kits continue to be widely produced and distributed, gaining extensive attraction to minors, people who have committed crimes and others who are prohibited from buying guns.
During the Biden administration, the Supreme Court upheld a federal regulation imposed by Biden’s administration. Biden clarified that kits and components fall under the 1968 Gun Control Act. This regulation required manufacturers of these kits to mark firearm kits with serial numbers, perform extensive background checks, determine licensing for sellers as well as making sure buyers are 21 years of age.
This ruling has been prompted by the dramatic increase in ghost gun crimes reported by the U.S. Department of Justice and local police. In 2017, law enforcement traced approximately 1,600 ghost guns recovered from crime scenes. By 2021, that number had surged to over 19,000.
In early February, President Trump required the Attorney General to review gun regulations that were imposed under the Biden administration, yet intense action against ghost guns has not been substantial.
Ghost guns have been used in various shootings, including the Philadelphia mass shooting where five people were killed and two others were injured when a man with a semi-automated rifle from a ghost gun kit opened fire in a Philadelphia neighborhood.
It may seem shocking that a conservative majority Supreme Court would uphold any sort of policy from the Biden era. In a 7-2 decision opinion written by conservative Justice Neil Gorsuch, the Supreme Court reversed a lower court’s ruling, determining that the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives had not overstepped its authority when implementing the 2022 regulation on ghost gun parts and kits.
“Perhaps a half hour of work is required before anyone can fire a shot,” Gorsuch wrote in the majority opinion statement that he authored.
Gorsuch acknowledged that the prevalence of ghost gun crimes is increasingly concerning. Some may say his decision goes against his conservative values, stating that “recent years, however, have witnessed profound changes in how guns are made and sold,” Gorsuch wrote.
Last year, despite the Court’s conservative approach to the Second Amendment, justices struck down a ban on bump stocks, devices that turn semi-automatics into weapons capable of firing hundreds of rounds per
minute. This shows a progressive shift toward a less political stance on gun regulation.
Conservative Justices Samuel Alito and Clarence Thomas were the only two that voted no. Thomas wrote the dissenting opinion, stating that “Congress could have authorized ATF to regulate any part of a firearm or any object readily convertible into one. But it did not. I would adhere to the words Congress enacted.”
Despite mixed opinions regarding the outcome of the ruling, upholding the previous administration’s ghost gun regulations marks a significant step in addressing the rising threat of untraceable firearms and the prevalence of ghost gun kits.
PHOTO COURTESY OF CNN
PHOTO COURTESY OF KUAM NEWS
Opinion: France is asking for the Statue of Liberty back, and I kinda hate it
MALLORY WALIGORA
Political Editor
Raphael Glucksmann, a French member of the European Parliament, has asked the United States to return the Statue of Liberty to France.
“We gave it to you as a gift, but apparently you despise it. So, it will be just fine here at home,” Glucksmann said at a rally on March 16.
The following day, Glucksmann took to X to elaborate. He criticized Trump for being a “friend of Putin” and for “firing researchers for using banned words.”
“This America, faithful to the wonderful words inscribed on the Statue of Liberty, your America, is worth so much more than the betrayal of Ukraine and Europe, xenophobia, or obscurantism,” Glucksmann wrote on X. “It is precisely because I am petrified by Trumps betrayal that I said yesterday in a rally that we could symbolically take back the Statue of Liberty if your government despised everything it symbolizes in your eyes, ours, and those of the world.”
He clarified that he did not mean to literally take the Statue of Liberty. Instead, it was meant as a symbolic action.
“No one, of course, will come and steal the Statue of Liberty. The statue is yours. But what it embodies belongs to everyone. And if the free world no longer interests your government, then we will take up the torch, here in Europe,” Glucksmann said.
All of this leads me to my conclusion: I’m not a fan of this action from the French. It’s petty, mean and overall done in bad taste. The French are masters of the “je ne sais quoi” attitude, but this is a bad take.
Don’t get me wrong, I’m a huge fan of the French. I’m even majoring in French here at OU. Right now, I’m currently taking a 19th Century French Literature class … in French. Nothing says appreciation like reading “Les Misérables” in its original text. I will relentlessly defend the French, despite claims of snootiness, because I love the culture, the people and mainly the smelly cheese.
But asking for the Statue of Liberty back 140 years later? That’s just bad taste. Let’s break down some of the information that has led me to this conclusion.
You can’t ask for a gift back
Firstly, it’s a gift. You can’t ask for a gift back — that ruins the whole point of a gift. For context, in 1885, the U.S. received the Statue of Liberty from the people of France. This gift was meant as a symbol between the two countries of shared values of liberty and freedom.
It’s been too long
Secondly, it’s been too long. It’s been 140 years, and the expiration date is far past. I’m not going to ask my second grade best friend for the nail polish
I gifted her back. It’s been too long, and the ship has sailed.
The French have no business asking for things back
So now France wants to discuss rightful ownership? Let’s discuss some history. The French are the last people who should be asking for things back, especially in the context of colonialism, artifacts, art and statues. Although some strides have been made in returning African art, there’s still a lot of progress to be made.
Let’s talk about the Louvre. Only 66% of the collection is comprised of French artists. Italy has asked for the Mona Lisa back — probably the most iconic work of art in the Louvre created by an Italian. If we’re playing the “give it back” game, France has to prepare for some awkward conversations.
It’s the Statue of Liberty!
Lastly, it’s the Statue of Liberty. She’s iconic and she’s quite literally the symbol of our country. She’s as American as Costco hot dogs, a Big Gulp from 7-Eleven on a sunny day, salty McDonald’s fries, Route 66, national parks, fireworks on the Fourth of July and Dolly Parton. Taking her away would be blasphemous.
She’s welcomed over 12 million immigrants to America. After crossing miles on the Atlantic, this was the first image immigrants from the old world saw — her torch symbolizing a new life and a welcome.
Sure, we can get into a debate about American ideals, immigration policy or the politics of the Trump administration, but honestly, I think the Statue of Liberty should be left out of this.
The French may not agree with our politics (honestly, neither do I some of the time), but they’re a whole ocean away. It’s not their place to ask for her back.
I could be really mean and bring up GDPs (France’s annual GDP in 2024 was around $3.2 trillion, while the U.S. had a GDP of $29 trillion — about nine times more). But I’m choosing to be kind and not be an economic bully today.
Despite this heated exchange, I’ll still eat my pain au chocolat and probably laugh about this in months to come.
Four Golden Grizzlies hit the transfer portal
KURT SZYMANSKI Sports Editor
Although the Oakland men’s basketball team’s season ended just over three weeks ago, the offseason is already well underway in the college basketball world.
As of this writing, four Golden Grizzlies, including Malcolm Christie, Jaylen Jones, Jack Hoth and Deng Majak, have already put their names into the transfer portal, which likely marks the end of each of their careers at Oakland.
In the list below, you will find some of their definitive moments this previous season and what their departures mean for the Golden Grizzlies ahead of next season.
Malcolm Christie | G | 8.3 PPG, 1.2 RPG, 0.4 APG
The list starts with Chrisite, who transferred to Oakland after spending three seasons playing for Dalhousie University in Canada.
Christie’s role throughout the season was clear from the get-go. In the season’s first game against Defiance College, Christie attempted 10 threes while attempting zero shots from inside the three-point line. He was set to be Oakland’s three-point specialist. However, as the season progressed, Christie’s time on the floor started to vary. Some nights, he’d play well over 30 minutes; others, he would see less than 10 minutes on the court.
Still, Christie did have some solid performances for the Golden Grizzlies, particularly during the stretch of games Oakland played to end the 2024 calendar year.
After back-to-back games shooting 50% from three against Michigan State and Cleveland State, Christie started the next seven games for the Golden Grizzlies, which led to him scoring a season-high 27 points against Hawai’i in an overtime loss on Christmas Day.
Jaylen Jones | G | 5.5 PPG, 2.8 RPG, 3.1 APG
Despite coming off the bench in all but one of his appearances for the Golden Grizzlies, Jones certainly made an impact last season for the Golden Grizzlies.
Jones played 22 minutes per game, the fifth most among Oakland players last season and the most of any player on this list. Additionally, he was influential offensively, totaling the most assists on the team as the lead ball-handler off the bench.
Jack Hoth | G | 1.3 PPG, 0.5 RPG, 0.1 APG
After initially starting the season as a redshirt junior, Hoth came off the redshirt mid-season for Oakland after injury woes hit the team. He made his debut in a January matchup against Northern Kentucky on the road.
Deng Majak | F | 0.6 PPG, 1 RPG, 0.2 APG
Throughout the season, Majak earned two starting nods for the Golden Grizzlies in 32 games. He started the season opener against Defiance, where he totaled two points and four rebounds, and he also made the start against Michigan State in Buru Naivalurua’s absence.
Looking Ahead
With these four players on the move and senior DQ Cole and graduate student Jayson Woodrich also out of the picture, there are some missing pieces to the puzzle that Oakland will have to fill ahead of next season.
For starters, with Cole off the roster and Jones likely off the roster, the Golden Grizzlies might consider bringing in a primary ball-handler to run the team next season.
Although Isiah Jones and Nassim Mashhour remain as possible options to run the Oakland offense, it would be ideal to bring in a pure point guard next season, even if he comes off the bench for the Golden Grizzlies.
Additionally, with Chrisite and Woodrich gone, the Golden Grizzlies will undoubtedly be in the market to add multiple players with the chops from deep, as Chrisite and Woodrich combined to shoot 44% of Oakland’s threes last season.
The big question remains what Majak’s departure means for this Oakland team.
Undeniably, the Golden Grizzlies were led by the big-man duo of Allen Mukeba and Naivalurua this previous season. Majak leaving could mean the duo stays put in Oakland, as it wouldn’t make much sense for Majak to stay considering the limited time he saw on the floor for the Golden Grizzlies throughout the season.
However, if one of Naivalurua or Mukeba leaves, the Golden Grizzlies will be relatively thin at the center position. Oakland would have to ideally recoup a couple of big men from the transfer portal ahead of next season.
Regardless of what happens, the offseason will be a pivotal time for Oakland to retool its roster and address the gaps created by these departures.
Boston Halloran walk-off lifts Golden Grizzlies above Cleary
KURT SZYMANSKI Sports Editor
On March 26, the Oakland Golden Grizzlies baseball team faced the Cleary University Cougars and came away with an exhilarating 10-9 comeback win, marking their seventh win on the season.
Taylor Tomlin led the Golden Grizzlies in hits, notching three hits while batting in two runs during the game. Sam Griffith also had a solid showing, registering a pair of hits and two RBIs on the day.
From the mound, Tanner Ware was credited with the win after holding Cleary scoreless in the final inning. Ethan Glassman, who started the game off for Oakland, secured the most strikeouts in the matchup, tallying four.
The Cougars got on the board first after Hector Monti crushed the ball to center field for a triple with two men on, giving Cleary a 2-0 advantage in the first inning.
Before the Golden Grizzlies could answer, Cleary’s Ryan Rose grounded out in the third inning to send Gavin Kempai on third base home, making it a 3-0 ball game. However, at the bottom of the third, Oakland rattled off three straight hits and a walk to tie things up 3-3.
The Cougars responded in the following inning, quickly getting batters on first and third with a single out. On the next at-bat, Austin Vince would fly out, leading to Cleary taking back the lead at 4-3.
In the sixth inning, the Cougars gained some more
breathing room after a passed ball brought Brodie Macka of the Cougars home, expanding the score to 5-3 in favor of Cleary.
Once again, the Golden Grizzlies answered at the bottom of the inning. After a pitch hit Carter Hain and the Cougars made an error that allowed Aidan Schuck to reach second, Griffith singled to center field, tying up the game in the process.
However, Cleary still had some juice left in them as the Cougars worked to reclaim their lead in the following inning.
After two walks and a single courtesy of Monti, the Cougars loaded the bases. But before any Cleary batters had a chance to up the ante, a wild pitch from Oakland occurred, resulting in every Cleary runner to advance, making it a 6-5 ballgame with the Cougars in control.
Cleary’s next batter, Vance, was walked, loading the bases for the second time this inning for the Cougars. Next, Kempai drilled a single to right field, which had enough distance for all Cougar runners to advance home, putting Oakland in a four-run deficit.
After two straight innings of scoreless baseball from the Golden Grizzlies, the team found themselves down 9-5 in the game’s final inning.
Trent Rice led off for Oakland in the ninth inning and promptly delivered a double as Tomlin and John Lauinger followed up with singles, allowing Rice to score. After that, Brandon Nigh grounded out, but not before Tomlin would reach home, leaving Oakland down 9-7 with just a single out.
Next, Hain brought Lauinger home with a single to put the game within reach. After Ben Clark followed up with another single, Hain advanced to third, leading to Schuck grounding out to send Hain home, making it a tie ballgame.
With two outs and Clark on second, Boston Halloran was brought in to pinch hit for Jack Lux, and Halloran delivered, hitting a walk-off single to center field to bring home Clark to give the Golden Grizzlies their only lead of the game and the win.
Next, the Golden Grizzlies will play the Youngstown State Penguins in a three-game series at Oakland Baseball Field. The series starts on Friday, April 4, and concludes on Sunday, April 6.
PHOTO BY KATIE REID
OU baseball gets back in the win column against Akron Zips
EVAN BLANCHARD
Sports Reporter
Last Tuesday, March 25, the Oakland University men’s baseball team continued its strong homestand with a dominant win over the University of Akron Zips. The Golden Grizzlies took the lead early on and wouldn’t relinquish it in their convincing showing over Akron.
Freshman Daniel Duhle earned the start on Tuesday amid his early-season success. Duhle boasts a 2.84 GPA over 19 innings, averaging a strikeout per inning. However, he only went 2.1 innings against the Zips as he struggled with his control, walking three batters and hitting two in between striking out four.
Akron struck first blood in the first inning after Duhle let three consecutive batters reach base. With the bases loaded, Duhle walked Akron third baseman Bowman, putting Oakland down 0-1. Duhle would strike out his next batter up, ending the inning with three punchouts.
That 1-0 deficit didn’t last long. OU immediately pounced on Zips starter Vandegrif as left-fielder John Lauinger led off with a single. His hit opened the floodgates for the Golden Grizzlies’ offense. After rightfielder Aidan Orr was hit by a pitch, Oakland hit four consecutive singles to drive in four runs. Vandegrif’s day was done after retiring just one batter. In total, OU put seven men on base in the opening frame, a great sign for the rest of the game.
Duhle had no problem with the Zips in the second inning, only allowing one walk against the four batters he faced. Oakland would get right back to it in the bottom of the frame as shortstop Brandon Nigh doubled to left
center with one out. Catcher Matthew McGann added another RBI with a single that drove Nigh home, giving the black and gold a 5-1 lead.
In the third inning, sophomore reliever Blake Sehlke was called on after Duhle put two men on with one out. Sehlke wrapped up the inning cleanly, striking out one and coaxing a groundout to get the Golden Grizzlies out of a pinch. He completed the fourth inning as well, again working himself out of a tight spot with two men on.
OU would capitalize on his strong performance in the bottom of the fourth. With two men on and one out, third baseman Carter Hain produced yet again, earning his second RBI with a single between second and first. A commanding 6-1 lead put the Golden Grizzlies in a fantastic position to close out with the win.
Oakland would continue to pile on the runs in the very next inning. With two men out and Jack Lux on second, the Golden Grizzlies came up clutch. After a Lauinger walk and an Orr hit-by-pitch, Nigh came up to bat, facing a new Akron pitcher who was called upon to get the Zip out of a loaded-base situation. Nigh won the matchup, singling to center field to bring in two more runs, shifting the score to 8-1 in favor of the Golden Grizzlies.
The only remaining run from the contest came in the seventh inning on a fly-out RBI, but it was too little, too late. Oakland prevailed with an 8-2 victory, giving them their third win in four games. Over that stretch, the Golden Grizzlies are averaging seven runs, a great sign for the team moving forward.
Next up is a three-game series against Youngstown State at home that starts on Friday, April 4, and ends on Sunday, April 6.
Oakland introduces new women’s basketball head coach Keisha Newell
EVAN BLANCHARD
Sports Reporter
Last Friday, at a press conference in the OU Credit Union O’Rena, athletic director Steve Waterfield introduced Keisha Newell as the new women’s head basketball coach.
“I’m honored to lead the Oakland University women’s basketball team to this next chapter,” Newell proudly stated. “OU is a special place, and I’m excited to be part of a program that inspires hard work and togetherness.”
Newell had spent the three previous years coaching at Division II Lewis University and appears to be an excellent hire. She led the Lewis University Flyers to three consecutive Division II NCAA tournament appearances, finishing with 20-plus wins each season, most recently amassing a 26-4 record in the 2024-25 season before losing to Wayne State University in the first round of the tournament.
Under Newell’s leadership, the Flyers also won two Great Lakes Valley Conference regular-season titles and one tournament title. She also spent time at Roosevelt University, another Division II school, where she had similar success.
Newell is no stranger to the Horizon League, either. As a player, Newell was a three-year starter for Loyola Chicago before joining their coaching staff from 2010 to 2014. Loyola Chicago was a
member of the Horizon League athletic conference until 2013, so Newell has been around the block when it comes to Horizon League basketball.
“I’m excited about the competitiveness every single game and to go back to the gyms that I have such great memories at,” she said when asked about being back in the league.
It’s obvious that this team will need a culture reset and a renewed commitment to excellence; Newell seems hyper-focused and committed to delivering just that.
“I want to build a team that plays for each other, holds each other accountable, and a team that loves one another. We are preparing this program to compete for championships,” Newell said. “We’re going to work, we’re going to compete, and we’re going to do it together.”
Not only does Newell want to compete, but she already has the blueprint to do so. Her prior teams were characterized by excellent offense, and she wants to bring this fast-paced style of play to Oakland.
“On the court, our identity will be clean, hardnosed defense, aggressive rebounding, and up-tempo pace,” Newell said on the team’s style of play.
To go along with that, you need the right sort of player, which Newell also knows well. When asked about what made her successful at her other coaching positions, Newell emphasized character.
“High character. We are looking for players that
not only treat their teammates the right way but how you interact with officials and deal with adversity,” Newell said. “[They need to have] the ability to buy in and play for something bigger than yourself. This is a team sport, not an individual sport. Grit. [They need to have] the ability to face hard times. Basketball is a quick sport with mistakes, but we will teach about overcoming adversity and moving past mistakes.”
Newell concluded her interview with a simple statement, but one that seems to perfectly encapsulate what she’s all about.
“Let’s get to work.”
PHOTO BY KATIE REID
The Post predicts where the Detroit Tigers will finish in the Am erican League Central
EVAN BLANCHARD AND KURT SZYMANSKI
Evan Blanchard:
I’ll be the first to tell you how excited I was at the Tigers’ improbable playoff run last year.
But last season’s improbable run was just that. Improbable. Detroit went on a crazy hot streak, winning numerous one-run games with clutch hitting and lockdown pitching. Is the pitching replicable? 100%, especially when you have the best pitcher on the planet in Tarik Skubal. But at some point, if the Tigers want to go from a feelgood underdog story to legitimate contenders, they need to figure out their offensive woes.
That’s precisely why I have the Tigers coming in a tight third or fourth place. There isn’t enough in the cabinet to tell me otherwise. The Cleveland Guardians will still boast an incredible defense and have one of the best players in the AL Central in third baseman Jose Ramirez. The Royals have a top-five player in the game in shortstop, Bobby Witt Jr., to boot along with outstanding pitching. And finally, I can see the Minnesota Twins winning the division, granting health to star shortstop Carlos Correa.
I need to see a lot more out of this offense to believe that they can be a division winner. Riley Greene is probably the best left fielder in the MLB, but there are significant question marks after him. Can Kerry Carpenter hit lefties, or will he remain just a dominant hitter against righties? Can first baseman Spencer Torkelson figure out his approach
at the plate after a really solid 2023 season but a subpar 2024 season? Torkelson had a spectacular opening day against the Dodgers, going for four walks and a home run.
How about the young guys? Will second baseman Colt Keith continue the hot streak he had late in the year and become a great piece? Can one of Trey Sweeney, Jace Jung, Dillon Dingler or Max Clark
mature into a legit hitter? This lineup has so many questions and a lack of true firepower.
If I’m a betting man, my AL Central order looks like this: 1. Guardians 2. Royals 3. Twins 4. Tigers 5. White Sox. However, things could go down like they did last year, where the Guardians, Royals and Tigers all earned playoff spots because of the Wild Card. I still hope that the Tigers can put it all together for a division title push.
Kurt Szymanski:
Although Evan thinks the Tigers’ last season run was improbable, which it undeniably was, I’m left wondering if what we saw at the end of last season wasn’t just the Tigers getting hot. What if that’s just how the Tigers are now?
While I have my doubts about that, the Tigers have a chance to show the baseball world this season that last season wasn’t a fluke. In a wideopen AL Central division, I think the Tigers could ultimately win the division, barring injuries, with the worst-case scenario being that the Tigers finish third in the division ahead of the Chicago White Sox and Kansas City Royals.
The addition of Gleyber Torres was a good one. Was he the Alex Bregman that most Tigers fans wanted in the off-season? He isn’t, but if Torres can stay consistent, I think most Tigers’ fans will forget just how much they wanted Bregman.
Now that Jackson Jobe is good enough to crack the rotation, there’s a lot to be excited about in this Tiger’s squad. The sky is the limit for a team that hasn’t won the AL Central since 2014.
