September 23, 2016 Edition

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IN THE FACE OF TRAGEDY, TULSA PRAYS Thursday’s Prayer and Worship Night for Tulsa brings the community together. PAGE 3

Surrounded by Symbolism Campus art reflects university mission PAGE 6

Crowd Sourcing Volleyball feeds on crowd’s energy for big win. PAGE 12

Eurydice Elaborated Classic Greek tragedy gets modernized PAGE 15

Oral Roberts University · Sept. 23, 2016 · Tulsa, Oklahoma · Vol. 51, No. 3 · www.oruoracle.com · @oruoracle @oruoraclesports


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FEATURES: ‘It’s not a backpack. It’s my life’

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2 • THE ORACLE • Friday, September 23, 2016

11/30/2016


News Young Tulsans call community to pray RUSSELL DORSEY Sports Editor @ Russ_Dorsey1

As sirens rang out faintly in the distance, people of different races, denominations and backgrounds prayed and worshiped together as a community Thursday night. ORU alumni Lara Allen and Brian Nhira organized the prayer and worship event as their response to the death of Terence Crutcher in Tulsa last week. “I texted Brian late Monday and asked him if he wanted to put together a worship set and invite our friends. Brian made a graphic and put it on his social media and took the bull by the horns and we ran with it,” said Allen. “We didn’t want it to be with an organization or denomination or anything like that. We just wanted anybody who was hurt by it to come.” The prayer and worship night took place at John Hope Franklin Reconciliation Park in downtown Tulsa. Allen and Nhira chose the park because its location, but also because of the park’s origin, which Photo by Henry Ninde was erected in 2001 in memory of the 1920s Tulsa race riots. Alumnus Brian Nhira (left) leads worship “With everything going on in the world and our Thursday night at Reconciliation Park in Tulsa.

city, I just didn’t know what to do, but I was just tired of it. Tired of posting and having conversations on social media,” Nhira said. “When Lara hit me up, it felt like it was the Lord and the Lord had his way with it.” Several area pastors including Victory Church Senior Pastor Paul Daugherty were in attendance hugging, praying and speaking to people. Daugherty appreciated Allen and Nhira’s desire to not only put on the event, but to bring the community together as well. “I’m proud of Brian and Lara. It’s inspiring. I love that ORU students are leading the charge for prayer, worship and unity in our city,” said Daugherty. “They didn’t just go to ORU, they really got the heart of letting the Holy Spirit lead their response.” Despite all that has gone on in the city in recent days, a group of 150 people, many of whom had never met each other before and may never meet again, put aside their differences for a night to lift up their city in prayer.

Tulsa D.A. files charges; family calls for forgiveness ALYSSA LACOURSE AND LYDIA ECHOLS

News and Online Editor and Staff Writer @ AlyssaLaCourse and @lyd_echols

Tulsa County District Attorney Steve Kunzweiler filed first-degree manslaughter charges against Officer Betty Shelby in the death of Terence Crutcher, 40, who was fatally shot in an altercation with police on Sept. 16. “Officer Shelby, although now charged, is presumed to be innocent under the law until a judge or jury determined otherwise,” said Kunzweiler in a news release. Shelby, who was placed on paid leave as is the protocol within the TPD, could face up to four years in prison if convicted. Crutcher’s death came after TPD received a call about an abandoned vehicle in the middle of the road. According to the police video released on Sept. 18, police arrived on the scene in multiple vehicles and approached Crutcher who was outside of his stalled

car. When he started moving back to his car with his hands up, police moved in with guns and Taser drawn. Police spokeswoman Jeanne MacKenzie said Crutcher refused to follow the officers’ commands. “They continued to talk to him; he continued not to listen and follow any commands,” MacKenzie said. “As they got closer to the vehicle, at that time there was a Taser deployment and a short time later there was a shot fired.” Police Chief Chuck Jordan asked the Justice Department to open an investigation into the shooting. “I want to assure our community, and I want to assure all of you and people across the nation who are going to be looking at this, we will achieve justice, period,” said Jordan. Crutcher’s family requested that all protests to be peaceful, and they held an interfaith prayer vigil at the Metropolitan Church on Wednesday evening. Mayor Dewey Bartlett, city leaders and hundreds of Tulsa citizens of all races attended the service in an attempt to

Courtesy photo

Attorney Damario Solomon-Simmons (left) and Rev. Joey Crutcher (right) comforts Tiffany Crutcher, twin sister of Terence Crutcher. “Unite T-Town.” The purpose of the plus donors was raised on the first day. event was to pray for healing and for The family expressed its appreciation giveness, bringing the Tulsa community of the TPD cooperation so far and are together to honor Crutcher’s memory. grateful for its proactive leadership. A GoFundMe account was set up to President Barack Obama called raise money for Crutcher’s four chilMayor Bartlett praising TPD for its dren. More than $130,000 from 5,000- response to the situation.

THE ORACLE • Friday, September 23, 2016 • 3


Clarifying immigration reform CALLIE COTNER Staff Writer @ calliejaneeee

The hot topic in the Presidential election is immigration reform. Each party holds a strong position on this complex issue. Currently the immigration policy is based on the principles of reuniting families, admitting immigrants with skills that are valuable to the U.S. economy, protecting refugees and promoting diversity. Annually, the policy permits a worldwide limit of 675,000 permanent immigrants. The process to obtain citizenship is often difficult and drawn out. The policy, unfortunately, is sometimes disregarded by immigrants and Americans alike. Immigrants are often looking for jobs, and citizens will sometimes hire illegal immigrants in order to pay them “under the table” to avoid taxes. Some current citizens' attitudes discourages immigrants from abiding

by the set policy. CNN reported that 88 percent of Americans agree there should be a reform in immigration policy. “American history is full of inconsistencies,” Gary Pranger, associate professor of history said. “U.S. Immigration policy needs reassessing and reforming.” According to Curtis Ellis, chair of the history, humanities and government department, understanding each party's reform proposals can be confusing. He also said there is movement in immigration reform to correct these actions. “[Immigration policies] are also very complicated,” said Ellis. “It is not like one of those issues like gun control or abortion where the two parties have sorted clearly.” Understanding policies and reform ideas from each party is necessary when deciding how to vote. One proposal includes reinforcing the divider between the U.S. and

The mutual goal of immigrants and government has been to create U.S. citizens, said Gary Pranger, associate professor of history. Mexico. Government funding would be necessary to expand the existing wall on the southern border. “Unless [Congress] decides that the wall counts as military funding, they probably will not fall in line behind the idea enough to make a significant difference,” said Ellis. Another proposal suggests reinforcing border security may address policy concerns. Pew Research states illegal immigration has stabilized in recent years after steadily rising. Only half of illegal immigrants are Mexican, which begs the question, Is the wall necessary? The people must decide whose proposal is the best method of reform.

Donald Trump: • • • • • •

Expand southern border wall Enhance penalties for individuals overstaying a visa End birthright citizenship Hire domestic, unemployed immigrants and native workers before foreign workers Increase admission standards for refugees and asylum-seekers to cut down on abuse Apprehend and deport illegal aliens in gangs • Stop giving legal immigrant visas to those bent on causing harm (www.donaldjtrump.com)

Hillary Clinton:

• Keep families together; won’t seek to deport parents or kids • Fix the system and visa backlog • Seek to strengthen families • Equal citizenship • Every immigrant should be treated with dignity • Improve border security • Bring hardworking immigrants into the economy (www.democrats.org)

Campus voter registration event

Photo by Jeremy Luczak

4 • THE ORACLE • Friday, September 23, 2016

The “Raise Your Voice” register-and-vote event will be hosted by the Honors Program and the Oracle on Thursday, Sept. 29 at 7 p.m. Voter kiosks and tables will be provided in Zoppelt Auditorium. Oklahoma state representatives will be present to answer questions students may have. Oklahoma residents can visit www.elections.ok.gov to download a registration form. Mail-in forms are available at any Department of Motor Vehicles office, or registration is available at the Tulsa County Election Board. The deadline for registration is Oct. 14.


Courtesy Photo

Courtesy Photo

Photo by Jeremy Luczak

Attack in New York City

Swingo Bingo

Eight years of growth

A bomb exploded in New York City’s Chelsea neighborhood on Saturday, Sept. 17. Twenty-nine people were injured in the explosion, but no casualties have been reported. Ahmad Khan Rahami was arrested Monday morning after an altercation with New Jersey police. The suspect also planted another cooker bomb four blocks away from the original bomb. The New York Police Department said it was too soon to call the bombings a terror attack, but they do know the attack was not linked to any terror groups. The investigation is ongoing.

ORU’s Student Association is hosting an event they are calling “Swingo Bingo.” This event will have swing dancing taught by professionals, a hula hoop contest and Bingo games. The event is from 8 p.m. until 10 p.m. tonight at CityPlex Tower’s Skyline 60. SA is encouraging students to come dressed as if they are 60 years old. SA will also be giving away an array of prizes and providing cookies throughout the event.

For the eighth year in a row, ORU has experienced a growth in enrollment. This fall, enrollment grew by almost 7 percent. “This represents the largest increase year to year in our recent history,” said President William M. Wilson. “This is our largest incoming class at ORU in over a decade with 940 students.” The retention rate was also 83 percent making 2016 the seventh consecutive year it for it to be over 80 percent. T:5.125”

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THE ORACLE • Friday, September 23, 2016 • 5


Features

Photos by Jeremy Luczak and Caitlin Peach

The unique pieces of art on ORU’S campus have long been tourist attractions for people stopping through Tulsa. The Praying Hands and Prayer Tower were once the most visited places in the city.

Architecture and art serve as spiritual symbols KAYLEY FORSHEY Staff Writer @mybestfriendjo

Oral Roberts University is full of ethereal reminders showcased around the campus, and each piece brings to life the university’s mission and vision. Walking around the campus, guests may notice students laughing, the squawks of Canada geese in the distance, and a spaceship that seems to have landed in the middle of two gardens. The sidewalks are a maze and the buildings, a labyrinth. On sunny days when the light reflects off the chapel at just the right angle, students become blinded. There are stairs everywhere and a hall of mirrors with a mysterious lady. It may take until graduation to figure out the basement—and even then, the Learning Resource Center still proves to be a challenge. “For [artists], using visual and aesthetic dialogue to communicate spreads the value in Christ’s message,” said professor Jason Howell. “Chancellor Roberts was on the forefront of using media in many forms to proclaim the healing power of Christ.”

One such proclamation stands at the entrance in Billy Joe Daugherty Circle surrounded by the Avenue of Flags. The bronze sculpture modeled after Oral Roberts’ hands stands at 60 feet. The “Praying Hands” once stood in front of the City of Faith Medical Research Center, now the CityPlex Towers, as a memorial of prayer paired with medicine in evidence of faith. “The Hands represent the hand of the physician using the natural forces of God’s earth and his skill, and the hand of the prayer partner offering the prayer of faith,” Oral Roberts said in 1981. The Wall of Sacrifice, located on the opposite side of the sculpture, was added in 2012. Members of ORU’s community sought to honor those who have given their lives to spread the healing message of Jesus Christ by creating the wall. Nine ORU alumni names are sketched onto the gold plates. Inscribed above the names, 1 Corinthians 15:54 proclaims the hope that “death is swallowed up in victory.” Down the winding road away from the Wall is a little girl who stands in

6 • THE ORACLE • Friday, September 23, 2016

front of Gabrielle Hall. She wears a joyful expression and a flower dress. She provides hope to all who pass her, but she has never moved from her spot. Her name is Gabrielle Christian Salem. She was Richard Roberts’ niece, and was only six years old when she passed away from an inoperable malignant brain tumor. Gabrielle Hall, a portrait of the little girl hanging in the lobby, and her lifesize bronze statue designed by Beverly Paddleford honor her memory. Oral Roberts University makes it abundantly clear that prayer is a central ingredient to its mission. This is indicated by the placement of the Prayer Tower, located directly in the center of campus between the stunning Ralph L. Reece Memorial Gardens. A red flame burns on the top of the tower to symbolize extending the revitalizing and restorative power of prayer to the rest of the campus. Jesus can be seen sitting and teaching two students in the “Prayer Gardens” in the shadow of the tower. This sculpture was also designed by Paddleford, and was added to the Reece Me-

morial Gardens in 2000. “The Master Teacher” represents the truth students can only learn the will of God for their lives by sitting at the feet of Jesus. “When we see a successful piece, and truly admire it, we have a chance to admire [the Holy Spirit’s] gifts to us,” Howell said. All of the art on ORU’s campus acts as a creative reminder of God’s sovereignty, Jesus’ healing love, and the Holy Spirit’s restorative and demonstrative power for students, faculty, and community members who find themselves touched by each unique piece. Oral Roberts University is not like any other campus. The buildings carry a majestic air about them, and there is peace which surrounds the property. Inevitably, guests become aware of a happiness, of a sense of peace. Here, students have lived; they have been happy. This campus has been theirs, however brief their time. ORU has sheltered them; they learned and loved within its walls. The campus and art surrounding ORU has changed the students in some way. They can never be the same.


THE ORACLE • Friday, September 23, 2016 • 7


a s a h e n o y r e Ev : y r Sto

Keith Gogan is an assistant professor of English and is known by students for his backpacking and composition classes. RAEGAN DOUGHARTY Copy Editor @r_doughartyr

Intrigue sparked early in the mind of a sixth-grade boy growing up in New York’s Adirondack State Park. Vast forests and abundant nature surrounded him as he learned from his teacher about a new opportunity for adventure that would become a favorite pastime for years to come. He would carry this excitement for new adventure to Tulsa, and it would eventually lead him to take ninety-one trips to the Rockies, and around 170 expeditions overall. Keith Gogan is an avid backpacker, and frequently leads trips of ORU students to allow them to experience the form of adventure he has come to love. Gogan is an assistant professor of English who began working here in 1987 as the new tutoring center’s supervisor. He

8 • THE ORACLE • Friday, September 23, 2016

lives near East 61st Street and South Peoria Avenue, an area of Tulsa that has been home to frequent crime in past years. Gogan has specific reasons for his chosen place of residency, as well as his backpacking lifestyle. His multi-faceted motivation can teach a myriad of lessons to anyone willing to learn from him. “When I was younger and seeking a place to live, I decided I wanted to have low rent and also to live near the Riverparks Trail because I run and bicycle quite a bit. I found an apartment for $150 a month at about 63rd and Peoria,” Gogan said. “Later, I moved to other apartments in the area, even when I had a chance to leave that area.” Since childhood, his passion for various activities has only grown. Gogan’s interest in backpacking began early as he was raised in excellent territory for the activity.

“I grew up in New York’s Adirondack State Park, so we had millions of acres of forests, mountains, rivers, and lakes to explore,” Gogan said. There are a number of advantages that can be gained from backpacking. Gogan says anyone who participates in the activity can benefit. “First is the spiritual or aesthetic benefit from being in quiet and beauty—a rare interlude amid the business and tech-orientation of today’s life. Second is physical challenge, with the aerobic and strength workout, plus the almost inevitable fat or weight loss.” Gogan said. “Third is the emotional benefit; I’ve been reading much about how being in nature makes us less depressive and more happy. Fourth is the cognitive benefit; much new research suggests that being, or especially walking, in nature makes us smarter.” Gogan has been leading students’ backpacking trips for about 24 years.


Keith Gogan: a man, a mission, a backpack

Photo by Jeremy Luczak, courtesy photos

He has lived in the same area of Tulsa for quite some time. Once he was presented with the opportunity to choose a different place to call home, he discovered he was hesitant to leave. “I found that the area had grown on me, even though it was, frankly, dangerous at times, with frequent shootings, drug deals, and meth lab busts, one bust right in the complex in which I lived. I remember hearing the gunshots, on two occasions, that ended people’s lives,” Gogan said. His motivation for living in the area might seem like a mystery to some, but Gogan said he sees hope in the future of the region. He leads an “informal cleanup” in the area in order to make the neighborhood one that residents can be proud to call home. “I have many stories of close calls with danger, but I also have many stories about the good people who live there, such as Jim, an ex-convict who

turned to God and now simply tries to live in peace with his family,” Gogan said. “I am reluctant to leave the area as a whole because I see promise in it.” The troubled area has become home to many Mexican immigrant families, which has helped to bring stability to the region. Gogan said the community had previously been inhabited mostly by non-permanent residents, “many of whom were not interested in peaceful living, I could say.” He now lives in a relatively safe, gated apartment complex on the southern edge of the community. “While I acknowledge the need for overseas missions and aid efforts, this neighborhood, already getting good help from Dr. Endicott and his efforts, needs love and care, too,” Gogan said. “Four miles from campus is an area where dreams are dying, lives are cut short and, false happiness is for sale on every corner. There’s hope for it, though.”

Like living in this area isn’t just a financial decision, backpacking has been so much more than a recreational activity for Gogan. He hopes that students look for God in the nature and world around them, steering their vision and attention away from technology and video games. “I have a pin-on button that reads, ‘It’s not a backpack. It’s my life.’ That about sums it up for me. Backpacking can become an orientation, not merely a hobby.” Gogan said. “Once oriented to it, you’ll find yourself more appreciative of nature, more appreciative of the many comforts of ‘civilized’ living when you return, more appreciative of solitude, a rarity these days, and more appreciative of God’s handiwork, both the glorious stuff and frightening stuff.”

THE ORACLE • Friday, September 23, 2016 • 9


Contest calls for imaginative entrepreneurs MYAKA WALKER Staff Writer @myakacharles

It’s time for the second Business Plan Competition at ORU where students have the opportunity to form groups and pitch ideas to real-world business executives. “The main goal of the business competition is to spread the entrepreneurship spirit throughout ORU,” said Bruno Teles, College of Business instructor of marketing. Last year’s winning team included Derrick McCoy, Jonathan Cregor, Jared Duda and Geoffrey Graff. They won with the business KegSafe which McCoy, the group leader, founded. The product will be introduced to the market in March of 2017. According to McCoy, the business is “an app that alerts bartenders when kegs are low and allows owners to cross check ounces sold with ounces poured to put an end to beer theft.”

“It was a fantastic experience that taught me more than I could’ve imagined. It gave me the confidence to launch my business in the real world,” said McCoy. “It forced me to write an in-depth business plan that required editing and re-editing and taking account of every tiny detail about my future business. The competition introduced me to several successful entrepreneurs and investors.” ORU’s top-three groups will compete at the state level in the Governor’s Cup Competition next spring. At last year’s competition, McCoy and his group received $1,000 for “Best Interview” and $5,000 for winning third place overall. One of the participants, Roberto Gallegos won a scholarship. “Going through the whole competition and entering the Governor’s Cup Competition was an amazing learning experience for us all,” Gallegos said. “Being able to see something we worked on really hard paid off, literally with the cash prize, was awesome. It was a great ride with learning experi-

Courtesy photo

Dr. Julie Huntley (left) and Bruno Teles (right) presented the team with a glass plaque and check. Derrick McCoy, Geoffrey Graff, Jared Duda and Jonathan Cregor’s winning phone app will be released next year. ences and skills that I will put to use in future business endeavors.” Students who wish to participate are required to form groups of two to five people. In each group, at least two different colleges must be represented to qualify. The entry form is available on the College of Business’ webpage. Informational meetings will be held for those who plan to participate. The meeting dates are listed on the webpage

$100

as well. The application deadline is Sept. 30. First through third place group winners receive $2500, $1250 and $700 respectively, with winners announced on Nov. 11. The judges are business executives from the Tulsa Regional Chamber of Commerce’s business incubator, Service Corps of Retired Executives and Innovation To Enterprise.

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Runway Tulsa brings new life to fashion scene Student walks runway

Annual fashion show draws designers and models to Tulsa in weeklong event. CALLIE COTNER Staff Writer @ calliejaneeee

Designers of haute couture and fashionistas alike are getting the chance to shine as Tulsa continues to move up the social ladder. The Runway Tulsa fashion show was back in town with all the latest from the world of fashion. The week, however, is about more than a model’s walk, makeup and outfits. Its goal is to develop a strong foundation in Tulsa and build a new industry while adding to the city’s art scene. This past week Tulsa hosted its second annual Runway Tulsa fashion show featuring local and national designers. The week included fashion and educational events and runway shows. Friday evening at the Cox Convention Center downtown, Clary Sage College featured student collections on the Clary Runway. It was an eclectic show featuring collections from both alumni and current students. Chloe Emmanuel, student designer, pulled inspiration from her dance history, saying, “I wanted something futuristic that pulls movement, doesn’t

restrict your ability to move freely and feels comfortable when wearing it.” She captured the futuristic part with jewelry made from the inside of a calculator. Her extraterrestrial-themed outfit and makeup captured the audience’s attention while she strutted down the runway in her own creation. Emily Frank, a local model, gave insight as to the atmosphere of backstage. “It’s hectic,” Frank said. “We have to do really quick changes back to back and then get back in line to go.” Friday night was filled with fashion, raffles, auctions and fun. Saturday night was the fashion week finale at the Cox Business Center Assembly Hall. The night was brought to life by local emcee, Chera Kimiko. Designers from Los Angeles, Kansas City, New York and Tulsa displayed their creations. Models clothed in everything from casual wear to eccentric ball gowns strutted the runway. Joshua Christensen, former “Project Runway” season 9 competitor, contributed his “Sugarcoated” collection, which made a fun and playful statement. The models featured vibrant pastels and fun

Photos by Rebecca Olvera

Connor Freese, ORU senior business major, participated in the show as a model. He began modeling a year ago after a friend’s modeling journey inspired him. He found out he enjoyed the fashion industry and began his career. He signed with Linda Layman, a modeling agency who signs young hopefuls in the Tulsa area. Runway Tulsa has been his biggest walking experience so far. He worked for several designers, including Monsanto. Freese modeled a Speedo-like swimsuit in a walk. “It was interesting,” said Freese. “Whenever [Monsanto] told me what I was going to wear I was like, ‘That’s it?’ He went on and said, ‘You just have to own it.’” Follow Freese’s modeling journey on Instagram: @macaroni_n_freese.

patterns from his vivacious collection complimented by hot pink, gray, and purple hair, including facial hair. Local designer Nikki Warren also made an appearance. Warren is the owner of Manifesting Our Creative Hidden Abilities (MOCHA) Butterfly, a brand dedicated to creating designs to give the women of Tulsa the freedom to express their individuality. Another Tulsa designer, K. Nicole showcased designs featuring feminine and flirty styles. Her creations can be found at K. Nicole Boutique. “It is an honor and a privilege to be shaping the fashion climate of this city,” said Alexis Monsanto, a Los Angeles fashion designer. His elegant formal wear and fun beachwear were displayed in the final collection to be shown on Saturday, and he left the crowd amazed. The finale ended with cheering from the audience. If it wasn’t apparent before, then it is now: Tulsa is ready for more culture in their community Courtesy Photo as Runway Tulsa left a lasting impresConnor Freese modeled Grant sion on the local designers and aspiring Karpin during the finale. fashion population. THE ORACLE • Friday, September 23, 2016 • 11


Sports Mamabolo fitting in with women’s soccer RUSSELL DORSEY Sports Editor @Russ_Dorsey1

Junior midfielder Nelly Mamabolo hasn’t been at ORU long, but she is already getting comfortable with a new team, a new school and a new country. This is the first time the Polokwane, South Africa native has ever been to the United States. While the adjustment to a new country can be difficult for any international student, Mamabolo said her teammates have been there to help her every step of the way. “They’re really nice, I like them a lot. They’ve been very supportive,” she said. “Anytime I need anything, I can just go to one of them and they’re there to help. The transition was a bit hard at first. I’ve been able to adjust, so I’m

good now.” Head Women’s Soccer coach Roger Bush is pleased with Mamabolo and the transitions she’s made both on and off the field. “We love Nelly. She has said maybe two or three words to me since she’s arrived. She’s quiet, but it looks like she’s having a good time,” Bush said with a smile about his newest midfielder. Mamabolo has played in all 10 of the team’s matches and has started in seven. She has five total shots this season. One of the more unique qualities about Mamabolo may be her size. Standing at just 5’0, opponents often tower over her on the field, which has forced her to transition from a finesse style of play to a more physical style. “I’m really tiny and short and they’re

pretty aggressive during practice,” she said with a chuckle. “Physicality is going to be the biggest adjustment for me, but I’ll get there.” The Golden Eagles’ playing style of pace and movement fits well with the skill set Mamabolo brings to the table. Bush says the size difference shouldn’t be a concern, and Mamabolo can be a potential game changer for the Golden Eagles despite sometimes being the smallest player on the field. “She’ll surprise you. She’s shifty enough to get out of harm’s way, but courageous enough to go win tackles and win the ball,” said Bush. “That’s one of the reasons we recruited her. We’re about trying to be quick. She’s a fabulous player and we think that she is somebody that can produce.”

Photo by Sydney Stoever

Mamabolo was a member of the South African U20 National Team back in 2014.

Volleyball sweeps Razorbacks in nail-biter JADYN WATSON-FISHER Editor-In-Chief @jwatsonfisher

A record-setting 1,272 students, faculty and staff watched the ORU volleyball team improve to 8-6 in its sweep against Arkansas on Tuesday night. This was the team’s final non-conference match and the first at home this season. The match didn’t disappoint as players from both teams flew through the air with high-speed serves and strong blocks and dove for loose balls. The Golden Eagles won all three matches (25-22, 25-21, 29-27) as fans chanted “O-R-U” while wearing neon yellow Game Day t-shirts. “I think our bench was really awesome, but the crowd was absolutely amazing,” said junior middle blocker Shelby Cox. “We have never had anything like that. We really fed off the energy.” Arkansas tried to keep up the entire night, even trying to come back in the final set by forcing three match point efforts, but ORU came out on top. Head Coach Sheera Sirola is happy with the way the team bounced back after its rocky tournament at the University of Tulsa last Friday and Saturday. “Last weekend, we would get down two or three points and then we would even up [the score], but 12 • THE ORACLE • Friday, September 23, 2016

we couldn’t close the game,” she said. “We harped on mental toughness the whole weekend and the girls finally executed.” Junior Laura Milos led the team with 23 kills, her seventh match of the season with 20 or more, followed by Cox who posted 10. Lucija Bojanjac was another active force in the victory, providing 33 assists on the night. “[Shelby and Laura] are our go-to players. They’ll bail us out in any situation,” Sirola said. Service aces played a major role in the match; Milos posted four of the team’s eight, outscoring the entire Razorback team. Milos was also named Summit League Offensive Player of the Week for the eighth time in her career, and the second time this season. Sirola thinks her energy on the court helps determine the outcome of the match. “When she is on, when she is talking and she is communicating with the whole team, the team plays better,” said Sirola. “If she does not have that energy coming out of her, they’re not going to play well.” Cox said the Golden Eagles will rest up this week and attempt to continue the energy from this match when they start Summit League action at North Dakota State today at 7 p.m. The team will return to the AC on Oct. 2 taking on the Omaha Mavericks.

Photo by Abby Friedman

Freshman hitter Katarina Mikulic posted two kills and five digs in the match on Tuesday.


Fall sports continue with full schedules Women’s Soccer

Men’s Soccer

Men’s Golf

Women’s Golf

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NDSU on Oct. 2 at 1 p.m. IPFW on Oct. 14 at 6 p.m. IUPUI on Oct. 16 at 12 p.m. South Dakota on Oct. 23 at 12 p.m.

Eastern Illinois on Sept. 24 at 7 p.m. Central Arkansas on Oct. 4 at 7 p.m. IUPUI on Oct. 15 at 7 p.m. Missouri State on Oct. 25 at 6 p.m.

Memphis Invitational on Sept. 26 Paintbrush Intercollegiate on Oct. 10 Herb Wimberly Intercollegiate on Oct. 17

Bob Hurley ORU Shootout on Sept. 26 Jacksonville Classic on Oct. 3 Little Rock Women’s Golf Classic on Oct. 30

Men’s Tennis

Women’s Tennis

Cross Country

Volleyball

• ITA All American on Oct. 1-4 • ITA Regionals on Oct. 20-24

• UCA Fall Invitational on Sept. 23-24

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Cowboy Jamboree on Sept. 24 Rim Rock Classic on Oct. 1 Summit League Championship on Oct. 29

All fall sports have started their seasons with some beginning conference play as early as next Sunday.

Photo by Sydney Stoever

Photo by Sydney Stoever

Oracle Male Athlete of the Week

Oracle Female Athlete of the Week

Junior midfielder Santiago Riveros is the Oracle’s inaugural Male Athlete of the Week. The Armenia, Colombia native assisted Baptiste Vandeputte’s game-winning overtime goal against Houston Baptist on Sept. 11 and scored the Golden Eagles’ lone goal in a 1-1 draw against Missouri State on Sept. 17. Riveros leads the team with nine points on the season to go along with two goals and five assists. The men’s soccer team takes on Eastern Illinois tomorrow night at 7 p.m.

Junior midfielder Lexi Jones is the Oracle’s inaugural Female Athlete of the Week. Jones scored a pair of goals against Texas Southern, including the game-winner, as the Golden Eagles routed the Tigers 7-0 on Sept. 18. The two goal performance was the first of her career. The Oklahoma City native has already set a new career-high in goals with four and leads the team with nine points. The women’s soccer team is back on the road as they take on Kansas State tonight at 7 p.m.

Omaha on Oct. 2 at 1:30 p.m. Western Illinois on Oct. 7 at 7 p.m. SDSU on Oct. 9 at 1 p.m. Denver on Oct. 11 at 7 p.m. South Dakota on Oct. 21 at 7 p.m. NDSU on Oct. 22 at 7 p.m.

Photos by Abby Friedman and Jeremy Luczak

Courtesy Photo

Nike basketball clinic returns to ORU ORU will host the Nike Championship Basketball Clinic for the second consecutive year and hold its first practice during the event. It runs from Sept. 30-Oct. 2 and will feature basketball coaches from around the country. Oklahoma coaches Lon Kruger and Sherri Coale, Baylor’s Scott Drew and ORU Head Men’s Basketball Coach Scott Sutton are among the top coaches scheduled to speak. College, junior college and high school players, coaches and basketball enthusiasts are welcome to attend. Register online at www. basketballcoach.com. THE ORACLE • Friday, September 23, 2016 • 13


Scene iPhone vs. Galaxy comes down to recall and personality JOSH ELLISON

Contributing Writer @joshtellison

If you have a Galaxy Note 7, why are you still reading this? Go return your phone now. I can wait. On Sept. 15, Samsung and the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission issued a full recall of the phone. The lithium ion battery can overheat when charging and cause the phone to melt or burst into flames. There is good news though. Samsung will replace your phone if it is one of the roughly one million affected units. Just eight days before the recall was announced, Apple released the iPhone 7 to mixed reviews. This week marks another chapter in the long smartphone feud between Apple and Samsung. I will admit that I use an iPhone, but I have no biases when it comes to the Apple or Android argument. In a few words, I will attempt to help you understand which phone meets your needs. So ask yourself…

Do you watch a lot of videos on your phone? Samsung’s Galaxy series has consistently led the way in this field. In terms of hardware, there are not many differences between Apple and Samsung, but this is an exception. The Galaxy’s screen size falls between the iPhone 7 and 7+, however, the resolution and pixel density are considerably greater. This translates to more accurate images on screen. Do you own a Mac, or like the way Macs feel? If you use a Mac and like the structure and layout of it, the iPhone might be for you. It looks and feels like a smaller version of Apple’s computers. Apple’s family of products are designed to work together. Features like Airdrop and the Photos app make it easy to seamlessly transition between mobile and computer.

Do you take a lot of pictures with your phone? Consider both options here. In testing, the Galaxy’s camera tends to be more consistent. The autofocus also tends to clarify images faster than the iPhone, and the camera’s sensor is able to handle very dark or very bright areas well. The iPhone 7+, however, uses two separate lenses to capture a more realistic field of view. It also uses optical zoom, which greatly increases the quality of long distance photos.

Courtesy photo

If you decided to ignore my advice and continued to read this article, you can find more information about the recall and replacement process at: Courtesy photo www.samsung.com/us/note7recall

Courtesy photo

‘Storks’ flies into theaters Tulsa State Fair “Storks” opens in theaters this Friday. Starring Andy Samburg and Jennifer Aniston, “Storks” tells the story of a delivery stork named Junior and his unconventional task to deliver a baby. Storks used to deliver babies but now the birds deliver packages for a large retail company. When a delivery request for a baby accidentally comes through, Junior pairs with his only human friend Tulip to fix the error by delivering the baby before his boss finds out. Catch the movie today at AMC Southroads and B&B Starworld. 14 • THE ORACLE • Friday, September 23, 2016

Tie breaker: What do you like? The legal feud between Samsung and Apple has raged since 2010. While it’s easy to get lost in technical details and minute differences, many people forget to ask the most important question. What do you like? Apple consistently strives for minimalism in its products, always seeking to push the industry forward (looking at you, headphone jack). Samsung pursues simplicity and a more timeless look in its design. There are very few major differences between the phones, besides how and where certain features are placed. Before you praise your favorite brand of smartphone, give the other a try.

The Tulsa State Fair will be back in town Sept. 29 and will last until Oct. 9.This year brings a new selection of food choices. The cowboy fries, bacon mac and cheese dog, deep fried double bacon, and specialty candy waffle cones are a few of the newest foods. Kelli Pickler and MercyMe and many others will perform on the Oklahoma Stage. Other fair attractions include rides, Disney on Ice, culinary stage and much more. General admission is $8 on Monday-Thursday and $10 on Friday-Sunday.

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ThinkGeek opening day ThinkGeek is opening its first retail store in Oklahoma at Woodland Hills Mall in Tulsa this Friday, Sept. 23. ThinkGeek prides itself in allowing its customers to “embrace their inner geek.” Customers can find all kinds of geeky items from apparel, electronics, gadgets, office decor and collectibles. The store caters to many popular fandoms including Star Wars, Star Trek, Marvel, Game of Thrones, Zelda and more. ThinkGeek will be open from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Friday.


The Conversant Critic: Pinkitzel offers basic treats VICTORIA ATTERBERRY Muse Editor @Tory2495

All things sweet line the walls of Pinkitzel, a cupcake and candy store in downtown Tulsa. Pinkitzel, meaning “tickled pink,” is an Oklahoma-owned bakery with two locations in Oklahoma City and Tulsa. The store may seem like just a cupcake bakery at first glance, but it’s also a candy store and gift shop. The cupcakes are made fresh everyday and cutely wrapped in the store’s signature wrappers. Pinkitzel has numerous flavors to choose from, including Red Velvet, Cookies and Cream and Salted Caramel. Cupcakes are touted as the store’s specialty, but the tiny cakes are underwhelming. One of the available flavors is birthday cake, a simple vanilla cupcake topped with dark pink buttercream frosting. It’s not overwhelmingly special; it tastes like any average cupcake. Pinkitzel’s Pink Lemonade cupcake, however, offers a more unique taste. The vanilla cake topped with lemonade flavored buttercream is something not found on every street corner. The buttercream is a light, sugary, lemonade flavor and the cake is filled with pink lemonade filling. A lemon candy slice tops the cupcake, and a cute pink-striped paper

straw playfully sticks out the side. Each cupcake is $3.50 or $3.00, and are sold by the dozen. Customers who purchase a dozen cupcakes can get their cupcakes wrapped in pink boxes tied with string to give as gifts. Pinkitzel also offers drinks with a vintage feel. They are packed in traditional glass bottles, and come in fun flavors like root beer, cream soda and black cherry soda. The French Pink Lemonade sounds like a delicious drink, but leave it behind for a better selection. It’s a sparkling lemonade with a disenchanting blend of sour and sweet, and the fizz only contributes to the unpleasant taste. Pinkitzel also sells candy by the pound, and boasts its own collection of sweets such as saltwater taffy truffles, chocolate-covered strawberries, caramel apples and French macarons. The gift shop has mugs, bags, plaques, stuffed animals and even clothes on display on the far right side of the store lined up in mini aisles. Hello Kitty lovers can even find a small selection of salt and pepper shakers and cupcake kits. Vintage yet modern in style, Pinkitzel may be an unconventional store but it has a certain undeniable charm. Enjoy the attractive décor and atmosphere, but skip the sweet treats.

Photo by Jeremy Luczak

Pinkitzel delivers and has party rooms for guests to rent out for special events.

Greek tragedy ‘Eurydice’ gains a fresh twist LAUREN BREWINGTON Staff Writer @ laurenmonique__

Excitement is brewing over the new ORU theatre production titled “Eurydice.” The nontraditional play gives a modern perspective on an ancient Greek tragedy. The story puts a new twist on the dark tale of Orpheus, a mythological Greek musician and poet, and his wife Eurydice. Eurydice dies and is dipped into to the river Lethe, as is customary for dead souls, resulting in the loss of her memories. Movements, rather than scenes, take the audience deep into the Underworld as Eurydice’s father helps her regain her memory. “[Our production of ] ‘Eurydice’ gives a new modern twist to the story which is usually told from Orpheus’ point of view after Eurydice dies. This

production takes place in Eurydice’s point of view after she dies and goes to the Underworld,” said lead actress Taylor Davis, starring as Eurydice. “Eurydice” is a nontraditional adaptation using contemporary costumes and modern dialogue. Although Greek mythology is known for its tragedy, there are many light-hearted moments in the play. “The play shows relationships in the theater and that is what it’s all about, because people are relational people. It shows a romantic relationship between Orpheus and Eurydice, and it also shows a relationship between father and daughter,” said lead actor Slater Hurst, who plays the father. Director of Theater Courtneay Sanders chose this production because of its Greek background. The drama department hopes the play will educate the audience in Greek mythology as

well as be entertaining. Crew members have spent hours ensuring a successful production. With eleven cast members, five of whom are principal and six who make up the chorus, the cast believes the combination of the dramatics, music, and special effects will undoubtedly prove to be a

great show. “Eurydice” opened yesterday Thursday, Sept. 22 and runs through Sunday, Sept. 25. The production will showcase at 7:30 p.m. from Thursday through Saturday with a Sunday matinée at 2:00 p.m. The cost is $5 for students, $10 for guests and is free for faculty.

Photo by Jeremy Luczak

Eurydice has been an educational experience for the cast.

THE ORACLE • Friday, September 23, 2016 • 15


PART-TIME JOBS FULL-TIME BENEFITS

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800-257-1212 • AFReserve.com/Start 16 • THE ORACLE • Friday, September 23, 2016


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