The O'Colly, Friday, August 24, 2023.

Friday, August 25, 2023

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Pushing forward

Allyssa Ashby starts college four years after tragedy

ation, her priorities shifted.

Ashby’s father, Brian Ashby, suffered a brain aneurysm around 3 a.m. and died.

death, a familiar connection reentered Ashby’s life. Her high school sweetheart, Hunter Coco, reached out.

guish a brush fire in a nearby town. The team climbed into the brush truck, put out the fire and began to drive back to the station.

Bella Casey News and Lifestyle Assistant Editor

Allyssa Ashby was ready to start her life after high school. Then she lost her dad. Two years later, she lost her fiancé.

Ashby, 21, graduated from San Marcos High School in San Marcos, Texas, one year early at 17. She said she planned to enter the workforce or possibly pursue a college degree.

But on the night of Ashby’s gradu-

“Things just kind of changed for her, and so she wasn’t really thinking about going to college and her future and all of those things,” said Lacy Iakovakis, Ashby’s aunt. “It was just you know, trying to get through that initial grief of her dad.”

“What kinds of hardships or things come your way that you can always get out of it. You can make your life what you want it to be.”

-Patsy Oaks

Ashby’s grandmother, Patsy Oaks, reflected on Brian’s presence in Ashby’s childhood: if Ashby was not with her, she was with her father. He taught her to drive, and they shared a talent for drawing.

But Ashby pushed forward.

Nearly one year after her father’s

“It just kind of picked back up where we left off,” Ashby said. “We got pregnant a few weeks later.”

Their daughter, Paisley, was born in 2021. The pair got engaged and planned their wedding for June 2022.

As their family formed, Hunter joined the local fire department where his brother worked as assistant chief, and Ashby worked at a large childcare facility as a preschool teacher.

In the summer of 2022, Hunter and his brother were paged to extin-

New business dean takes the stage

Emi Norton Staff Reporter

As a first generation college student, James Payne accumulated an arsenal of collegiate certifications and degrees.

He began his undergraduate degree at Brea College, a private school in Kentucky, where he quickly excelled in his economics degree. The personal connections that Payne made led him to pursue his Ph.D. at Florida State University, an accomplishment beyond his imagination.

“I think early on the idea of opportunities awarded me with an appreciation of others ahead of me who provided some guidance

and thoughts on the opportunities that were there,” Payne said.

As a first generation alumnus, Payne understands the struggle of pursuing higher education and strives to help students who are going through the same processes.

“I think I bring with me an appreciation for students who are going through their first time in college, as it can sometimes be overwhelming for them,” Payne said. “I really try to work with students and help them to find their niche in areas that they’re really interested in pursuing. So, I think that experience I had as an undergrad translates well into today.”

Teresa Lightner, the associ-

ate dean of business intelligence, said she is working closely with Payne. Lightner handles OSU’s Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business accreditation and oversees assessment, placement, data collection and analysis for many ranking surveys and various reports.

“Dean Payne and I have a shared motivation and responsibility to lead Spears Business through AACSB accreditation during the 2023-2024 academic year,” Lightner said. “We are already working closely together to achieve that goal.”

Lightner values adaptability and open-mindedness as essential characteristics for faculty and staff.

But a generator fell from the truck, forcing the team to turn around in search of it.

As they approached an intersection, a car pulled out in front of the truck. It clipped the back of the car as it attempted to move out of the way, sending it into a nearby ditch. Hunter and his brother were killed.

“I’m heartbroken,” Oaks said. “Like, I look at Paisley and sometimes just go off in my room by myself and cry because it’s like, Paisley will never really know her daddy.”

See Tragedy on 4A

How freshmen can survive their first year

Emi Norton Staff Reporter

Four thousand new students arrived to Stillwater this week, ready to take on campus. Campus resources, organizations, clubs, night life and roommate etiquette are just a few of the important aspects of adjusting to campus.

Coller Doxey, a senior graphic design major, said valuing education

changed his life for the better, and he stressed the importance of diving into the course work.

“Stay focused, keep calm, never give up and have fun,” Doxey said. “College will change your life for the better in so many ways.”

Doxey reflected on things he wished knew before entering into his freshman year.

“I would say I wish I had time management down,” Doxey said.

See Freshmen Guide on 4A

Ethan Scott

Allyssa Ashby said OSU is a fresh start for her and her daughter, Paisley Coco, after the passing of her father and her fiancé.

Courtesy of OSU

James Payne hopes to deepen his relationship with the student body during his time at OSU and is looking forward to getting involved in the different organizations.

Marcus Conrad Freshman year can be overwhelming, but growing

Editor-in-Chief

Editorial board

Luisa Clausen editorinchief@ocolly.com

Sports editor Braden Bush sports.ed@ocolly.com

Assistant sports editor Ashton Slaughter sports.ed@ocolly.com

Design editor Ben Holieway design.ed@ocolly.com

News & Life editor Kennedy Thomason news.ed@ocolly.com entertainment.ed@ocolly.com

Assistant News & Life editor Kennedy Thomason news.ed@ocolly.com entertainment.ed@ocolly.com

Photo editor Ethan Scott photo.ed@ocolly.com

Adviser John Helsley john.helsley@okstate.edu

News & Lifestyle reporters:

Payton Little

Baylor Bryant

Michael Clark

Micah McKamie

Jaycee Hampton

Isaac Terry

Bella Casey

Emi Norton

Cloe Campfield

Taylor Carroll

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Mon–Fri 9:30–6:30, Sat 9:30–5:30, Sun 1–5

The O’Colly Staff

Sports reporters:

Gabriel Trevino

Davis Cordova

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Daniel Allen

Griff McClellan

Payton Little

Baylor Bryant

Parker Gerl

Gina Foster

Calif Poncy

Ivan White

& Designers:

Rebekah Cleary

Kendall McGhee

Molly Jolliff

Michael Clark

Karlie Boothe

Jaycee Hampton

Ava Whistler

Ethan Hilbert

Photographers

Kendall McGhee

Design Editor Ben Holieway

Photo Editor Ethan Scott

Sports Editor Braden Bush

Assistant News & Lifestyle Editor Bella Casey

Assistant Sports Editor Ashton Slaughter

News & Lifestyle Editor Kennedy Thomason

Editor-in-Chief Luisa Clausen

From caterpillar to butterfly

Wings of Hope gives domestic violence victims a second chance

Luisa Clausen Editor-in-Chief

Nicole, 22, was isolated from the world. Her domestic abuser forced her to cut ties with everyone she knew and kept her dependent on him. When she tried to have something of her own, he reminded Nicole she belonged to him and was not allowed to have a separate life from the one he wanted.

Once she accumulated courage and gathered knowledge of her situation, Nicole fought for her freedom. She got away, and the police officer who saved her took her to Wings of Hope Family Crisis Services.

There, trained staff took the necessary steps to save her life. The nonprofit organization based in Stillwater offers free services to victims of domestic abuse, from shelter and counseling to legal assistance and a trained team to assist victims of sexual assault.

In a state where 49.1% of women and 40.7% of men experience domestic violence in their lifetimes, including intimate partner physical violence, intimate partner rape or intimate partner stalking, a place such as Wings of Hope hosts a safe environment for victims.

Casey Nichols, volunteer coordinator at Wings of Hope, said the organization is prepared and equipped to help someone get out of a dangerous situation and give them full support to start their life again.

“Domestic violence is so much more common than people realize,” Nichols said. “The first thing I noticed working here is that almost everybody that you know has been touched by domestic violence or sexual assault.”

The nonprofit’s symbol, a butterfly, represents hope and the English proverb, “Just when the caterpillar thought the world was over, it became a butterfly.”

“Like the butterfly, many of us are affected by change and growth,” Nichols said. “We feel the butterfly represents the transformation our clients can go through when they reach out to us for services.”

basket and pillow on the day I landed - along with the basics for survival, was and will forever be appreciated. I did not know where to begin.”

Wings of Hope offers a confidential emergency shelter and a 24/7 crisis line for victims. Each case is treated according to its specific needs, but there is a protocol to be followed. The first step is to do a danger assessment and safety planning followed by a meeting with an advocate, who will understand the client’s particular situation.

“They fed my body, as I tried to feed my spirit and my mind.”

- Domestic violence survivor

A domestic violence survivor, 57, who chose to remain anonymous for safety reasons, said the domestic violence shelter was not a revolving door for her. It was a safe harbor as she caught her breath and sorted out her life. For her, Wings of Hope was an escape hatch as she found a safe home in the community.

“I literally cannot return to where I fled from, I know I would not survive,” She said.

“I am learning to exhale as I literally and figuratively learn to walk again. I am still learning to try to relax with some of the tools I was handed inside the walls of Wings of Hope. They fed my body, as I tried to feed my spirit and my mind. Everything - including the welcome

“Every client is so individual, everything is so different,” Nichols said. “For us, the most important thing is meeting the client’s needs to make sure everybody is safe.”

Domestic violence is not exclusive to sexual abuse. It may also include emotional abuse, economic abuse, sexual abuse, using children, threats, using male privilege, intimidation, isolation and a variety of other behaviors used to maintain fear, intimidation and power.

According to The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence Vision, on average, nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the United States. During one year, this equates to more than 10 million women and men.

Nichols said the #MeToo movement helped turn the taboo surrounding domestic violence into informational conversations that can save lives.

“I think there’s a bit of a lack of education,” Nichols said. “A lot of the time the issue can be helped immensely by talking about it, and actually getting it out there and educating people about the cycle of violence.”

Wings of Hope relies on donations, fundraisers and grants through individual donors to keep its doors open. The help of volunteers allows the business to reach and help more victims. People interested in helping can apply to volunteer at Wings of Hope or at the Thrifty Butterfly, a boutique part of Wings of Hope that helps fund the nonprofit. The boutique receives donations and sells those at a price domestic abuse victims can afford. The boutique is open to the public, but its focus is to provide quality clothes and accessories while supporting victims’ services.

Kayden Johnson, the store manager at Thrifty Butterfly and a junior at OSU, was a volunteer before working at the store. She went through 16 hours of training, where they covered how to deal with situations related to domestic violence. Employees and volunteers at Thrifty Butterfly don’t deal with victims every day, but they are required to know how to properly approach and help someone who walks into the store asking for information

and help.

“We are always prepared,” Johnson said. “We haven’t had anything crazy happen in the time I’ve worked here, but we will always give the victims resources.”

The volunteers and employees at Thrifty Butterfly have developed a close relationship and a deeper understanding surrounding domestic violence. Mia Luiz, a junior majoring in graphic design and an employee at Thrifty Butterfly, had tears in her eyes when talking about a unique situation where a woman came in asking for help, not knowing Thrifty Butterfly helps domestic violence victims. Luiz said, with tears in

her eyes. “I felt really blessed to have been the person that was there and able to help her you know.”

“You come on to volunteer and you can help save even more lives in our community,” Nichols said. “And it’s just so important, but I also know that my volunteers tend to walk away with a really positive volunteer experience.”

Those seeking help can call Wings of Hope’s 24/7 helpline, 405-624-3020, or go to their website, wingsofhopeok.com.

Luisa Clausen

Volunteer Faith Appeldorn sorting and organizing donations sent to Thrifty Butterfly in the back of the store. People can drop off donations at the store or leave it in the drop boxes outside the store.

Luisa Clausen

The store offers items at an affordable price and has clothes for women and kids.

Tragedy...

Continued from 1A

She packed up her life and moved eight hours from home to pursue nursing at OSU as a firstgeneration college student. She moved in with her grandmother, whom she described as her best friend. Ashby said she considers OSU a fresh start for her and her daughter.

The pair coparents Paisley, who Ashby described as independent. Paisley calls Oaks ‘nana,’ and Ashby said Paisley recognizes photos of her late father and grandfather.

Although being raised by two matriarchs is unconventional, Oaks said she thinks it is good for Paisley to grow up knowing women are strong.

“I hope what she learns with it, she can do anything in life that she wants, no matter what happens,” Oaks said. “What kinds of hardships or things come your way that you can always get out of it. You can make your life what you want it to be.”

Iakovakis said she never doubted Ashby could attend college and is a smart girl. Ashby enrolled in eight credit hours to ease into college life slowly.

“In midst of tragedy, it’s often very easy for one to decide that they just want to give up and not continue to push forward,” Kerr said. “And she definitely has

chosen to take the higher path in that and continuing to push forward.”

And as many students prioritize parties, shopping or dating, Ashby is focused on her daughter. Iakovakis said she knows Ashby plans to enroll

Paisley in a tumbling class.

“That little girl is her heart and soul,” said Ashby’s previous work supervisor Janna Kerr. “Through and through. Paisley is definitely her number one.”

news.ed@ocolly.com

Adderall shortage creates problems

Less Adderall means more strain on students.

Adderall is a medication used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. It contains amphetamine salts which cause immediate effects, lasting 4-6 hours and reducing impulsivity by increasing norepinephrine and dopamine levels throughout the brain.

In recent semesters there has been a dramatic shift in the supply of Adderall that has caused a shortage in Stillwater’s pharmacies and across the country. This event affected millions of people across the nation, including many students.

Peter Corrigan, a senior at Oklahoma State was diagnosed with ADHD when he was a sophomore in high school and was prescribed Adderall.

“I think the shortage has affected me by having to plan what tests I want to focus more on,” Corrigan said. “I wouldn’t know when my next prescription was coming so I had to space out what days I could really focus on. Adderall has helped me in

this classroom. I am able to take notes for an entire class and study throughout the day. I think I have to judge when I need to take it and when I might just stay home for the day.”

Corrigan is just one of several students who are facing this issue and trying to find solutions.

From rationing his prescription to missing class and changing his daily schedule, it is an issue that students must face head on.

Bailey Wrightsman was diagnosed with ADHD her freshman year of college and was also prescribed Adderall.

“Really overall, trying to get my prescription of Adderall has become a wild chase of having to call five different places, in different cities, trying to figure out a way to get it, which becomes so stressful to me,” Wrightsman said. “Having all these different classes, assignments, and events I need to attend and then can’t because I’m too busy trying to get my prescription is very difficult.”

Wrightsman also explained how Adderall shaped her into an A student. She said that without access to this medication, she has noticed a massive dip in her concentration during class and while working on homework as-

“Just the transition from high school to college was a little different. I had a bit more freedom in college where I got too relaxed and slacked a little to the point where it was hard for me to keep up with work.”

Keeping up with course materials and staying on top of announcements and emails from professors is a common theme that upperclassmen stress.

Isaac McEvoy, a second semester graduate student and degraded biology major, has relied on making connections with professors and showing up to class prepared to succeed.

“Don’t skip class,” McEvoy said. “If you’re thinking about going into grad school after your time as an undergraduate, definitely talk with your professors and people who work in the field you’re interested in. Develop connections, that’s a big one.”

McEvoy said he has learned from mistakes he made early on in his college experience.

“The biggest regret I have from my freshmen year is not going out and being more social,” McEvoy said. “Attending events, talking to people in my classes, showing up

early, talking to people in my classes. It’s not something you have to do but it definitely helps to maintain relationships.”

While keeping busy with coursework and maintaining grades is among many students’ top priorities, Alora Thompson, a junior philosophy pre-law major, cautioned freshman about course load. Thompson said she would not overload herself with classes.

“You should be consistently allowing yourself to have free time because you’re finding yourself as a person, trying to take 18 hours in those general education classes that are meant to weed out the students that are majoring in them isn’t good for your brain,” Thompson said.

Mental health resources are available on campus through the Student Counseling Center on the third floor of the Student Union.

“I would say that freshmen should know that it’s important to invest in your mental health in whatever way that works best for you,” Thompson said. “Don’t prioritize social mobility and status over your education and ultimately your wellbeing.”

For more information on campus wide events, athletic schedules and mental health resources, visit https://calendar.okstate. edu/, https://okstate.com/ calendar, https://wellness. okstate.edu/student-well-

signments.

Adderall is beneficial to students with ADHD because it can enhance productivity and improve attention and focus on their academics.

Those who struggle with impulsivity and procrastination that use this medication for school have had to face their academics with this ongoing issue, causing many problems in their personal lives, academic achievements and mental health.

Mattie Wine, a junior at OSU, expressed her concerns about what her semester might look like if this shortage continues.

“This semester I feel the shortage will cause a slip in my grades,” Wine said. “I have been much less productive since the shortage started and it inhibits my studying. With Adderall, I’m much more productive in my day to day life. I can finish all of my daily tasks without the stress and anxiety I would usually feel if I wasn’t taking it. Overall, it pushes me to keep going through

out the day and without it, I re

ally struggle to stay on top of my classes and school work, making me anxious for what is to come this semester.”

Patsy Oaks

Allyssa Ashby is known for the active role she plays in her daughter’s life.

Courtesy of Arielle Zionts

The national Adderall shortage is causing students to find ways to make their medication last.

Cloe Campfield Staff Reporter

Beyond education

College offers friendship opportunities

Jaycee Hampton Staff Reporter

Most people know college holds some of the best years of life.

But what is so special about college? There is pressure to achieve, while balancing work, school, a social life and becoming an adult.

The pressure students feel may not be academic— it can be as simple as making friends. The biggest freshman class started its first week on campus, and more than 20,000 students are bound to come across an individual with a shared spirit.

Christen Bailey, a senior majoring in physiology, said her friendships have helped her through her college experience.

Bailey emphasized the importance of having a broad social circle but finding value in true friendship.

“Have a bunch of acquaintances, but save energy for friendships for those that you connect with and that are reliable,” Bailey said. “Socialize with anyone and everyone you

can. Step outside of your comfort zone and join some groups that you think will fit your interests.”

Although some friendships can be surface-level, Bailey said having acquaintances in classes helped her academically. It makes classes less stressful to have someone working toward similar goals, even if that relationship never leaves campus.

Bridgette Pelt became more than an acquaintance for Bailey.

From the same small town in southeastern Oklahoma, Pelt had a similar path to Bailey. In her last year working toward her undergraduate pre-med psychology degree, she recognized the heavy workload and high stress that comes with pursuing her goal to become a psychiatrist is a lot to deal with, but having a friend by her side makes things easier.

Pelt and Bailey met years ago, but an active pursuit of friendship led them to become roommates, co-workers, former teammates and friends.

“Bridgette’s friendship means a lot to me because

she talked me into moving to Stillwater and attending OSU,” Bailey said. “I honestly wouldn’t be here without her encouraging me to pursue my degree and step out of my hometown to create a new life.” She said living with Bailey for the past year gave her time to reflect on what the friendship means to her.

“Her friendship means the world to me,” Pelt said. “We’ve known each other since elementary school.” After Bailey moved away, the pair reconnected and transfered to OSU, where their friendship flourished.

Pelt said talking goes a long way when trying to make friends on campus. Pushing through the initial awkward tension may sound terrifying, but these feelings go away. Being able to push through the shyness brought the powerful friendship that both Bailey and Pelt hold close.

“My definition of a good friendship is someone who is always there for you,” Pelt said. “Advice doesn’t need to be given as long as someone’s there, you

news.ed@ocolly.com

Seven Science-Backed Benefits of Friends

-Quality Friends Make You Physically Healthier

-Friendships Make You Happier

-Friendships Make You Live Longer

-Sociability Makes You Less Likely to Get Sick

-Friendships are Linked to Financial Success

-Friendship Improves Your Mental Health

-Friendships Make you Feel Safe

Dean...

Continued from 1A

“In my opinion, Dean Payne is the embodiment of a visionary leader,” Lightner said. “He possesses the ability to set strategic goals and the skills to implement them. Personally, I like his communication style and his willingness to listen and adapt.”

OSU’s strong academic reputation, as well as the land-grant mission, are major points that attracted Payne during his recruitment.

OSU’s campus-wide strategic plan was released this past year with constructive ideas for the growth of academia and student resources. Payne said his first area of business will be a plan for Spears to work alongside faculty and staff to help students excel.

“Right now, each of the units within the Spears School of Business is doing a spot analysis, looking for their strengths, weaknesses and areas of stress,” Payne said. “Then, from there we will be thinking about putting together a strategic plan that aligns with the university’s. It’s important for us to put it on paper as a faculty, staff and student driven process.”

Spears offers programs focused on inspiring students to think creatively and recognize and evaluate prosperous opportunities.

Kilientn Shrum, a senior global studies major, takes advantage of the Business Entrepreneur Program and stresses the importance of the staff’s effort to provide such opportunities for students.

“They obviously play a big role in student success,” Shrum said. “They’re very educated, smart people and take initiative in bringing big companies in to teach us how they are run and how businesses are operated so we can learn from them and get our foot in the door.”

Shrum has high hopes for Payne’s success as the new Dean this semester.

“He’s obviously new and will bring in new ideas, different skills and knowl-

edge to the table,” Shrum said. “Dr. Payne sounds like a promising figure for the students of Spears.”

Part of the process Payne intends to focus on revolves around preparing students with the right tools to adapt to changes in their field of work that they will be pursuing. As industry disciplines evolve, the relevance of each certification comes into question as students enter the workforce.

“We’re starting to look at which type of certifications are more relevant for undergraduate and masters students, etc.,” Payne said.

“First of all, our goal is to make sure that any alumni from the Spears School of Business– the value of their degree keeps going up. For those students that are getting closer to graduation, we want to make sure the curriculum is preparing them for the workplace.”

As an experienced researcher with a multitude of accomplishments across different records, Payne has published more than 280 peer-reviewed journal articles and has been recognized for his scholarly work in the Stanford-Elsevier global ranking of researchers. He utilizes his research as a tool to keep up with the academic progressions that are necessary to include in the collegiate curriculum.

“As a part of my career, I’ve really enjoyed the research process,” Payne said. “A big part of it is trying to keep up with my discipline, or at least even a subset of my discipline, because it’s changing so fast, and I never want to get so far behind that students look at me like I’m a dinosaur.”

Payne said he hopes to deepen his relationship with the student body at OSU and is looking forward to getting involved in the different organizations.

“Hopefully I can meet with different student organizations to get a deeper appreciation for what these organizations are doing and of course the student body as well,” Payne said. “I’m looking forward to stopping by to chat and answer any questions that they might have, I want them to have a good educational experience.”

Jaycee Hampton

Bridgette Pelt (left) and Christin Bailey (right) are seniors at OSU. They are friends, roomatew, co-workers and former teammates.

Cans and community

Lights on Stillwater welcomes students

STACHE and businesses and clubs provided free merch and food to attendees.

Ashlyn Goad, a junior political science major who is minoring in public health, works as the Food Insecurity Director for SGA.

“I think it’s important for people to get involved in the community that they’re in and get to know people, especially as college students,” Goad said.

food insecurity. Goad said her favorite parts of the event are people donating canned food and hygiene products along with everyone becoming involved in the community.

design major, attended the event. She said she also thinks that the event is important because of the community it creates.

Students flock to Stillwater each fall, and Lights on Stillwater welcomes them.

The Student Government Association runs Lights on Stillwater to give the OSU and Stillwater communities a chance to interact. The event also raises money and collects donations for the Student STACHE, SGA’s food bank..

Live music played as visitors poured into the blocked-off street. The entry fee was $1 or an item for Student

“Being away from home for the first time can be really scary. I think having events like this can show them that there are people here on campus and in the community that are really excited to get to know them.”

Goad comes from a small town, and she said her experience there made her understand how food insecurity can affect people. She joined SGA so she could eliminate that problem on campus, and events like this help combat

Lights on Stillwater helps the community and OSU interact with what Stillwater has to offer. Many businesses and OSU clubs like Varsity Barber Shop, The Wesley Campus Ministry and the Medieval Studies Group table at the event.

Katie Beitz, who works as a sustainability coordinator at OSU, tabled at the event.

“I would encourage everybody to come each year,” Beitz said. “For us, specifically, just look us up on social media and always information about what sort of volunteer opportunities.”

Amy Merrick, a freshman fashion

“I think it’s so fun and all of the vendors are really nice,” Merrick said.

Hannelore Copland, a junior mechanical engineer, attended the event for the third year in a row and said she would keep attending even if she wasn’t at OSU. Copland enjoys getting to know the different things Stillwater has to offer and encourages more people to attend. Copland said each year the event featured something new.

“It’s free things and you also never know,” Copland said. “I don’t think I would ever be able to find out about the Medieval Studies Group if I didn’t come here.”

news.ed@ocolly.com

Ethan Hilbert

Lights on Stillwater invites the OSU and Stillwater communities to interact while raising money and collecting donations for the Student STACHE.

Taylor Carroll Staff Reporter

‘Strays’ barks up the wrong tree

Michael Clark Staff Reporter Review

It would be an understatement to say that 2023 has had a lot of bad movies.

However, through all the heaps of mediocrity and disappointment, “Strays” has to be the most charmingly flawed film of the year. It isn’t quite the worst, it’s far from the best and it’s certainly the strangest by a country mile.

“Strays” follows a group of dogs going on a “Homeward Bound” style adventure to get revenge on an abusive dog owner. The idea is funny enough, and raunchy comedies have been making a big return after being out of style for a few years. Surely the stage was set for a cute, but unambitious R-rated comedy. There was just one thing they had to do…

“Strays” had to be funny. Because this was a comedy film produced by Phil Lord and Chris Miller, it was safe to assume there would be some good laughs in here, right?

Well, for the sake of journalistic integrity, I counted the amount of times I laughed throughout the film. The laugh count came out to be a whopping six, dividing that by the runtime of 93 minutes concludes that there was roughly one funny joke every 15 minutes. To put it lightly, “Strays” failed to be funny.

From outrageously long gags, to annoyingly self-referential jokes to downright offensively unfunny gross-out humor, you’d catch someone sleeping before a hearty laugh

broke out in my theater. Through the awkward silence throughout the entire film, one person cackled up a storm throughout the entire runtime. Good for him.

Honestly, “Strays” would be an excellent film if you cut out all the scenes with humans and just showed us footage of the dog actors barking and going on adventures. They’re cute dogs, and I found myself tuning out some of the lengthier gags in this film to appreciate seeing adorable pups on the big screen. Sometimes you just have to appreciate the little things.

What makes “Strays” the strangest film of the year is the fact that, despite being wildly unfunny, its genuine emotional core almost redeems itself.

The story addresses themes of abuse quite well. The dogs are all decently well written as characters, and while their one liners flopped, what kept me in my seat was an honest investment in the plot and characters.

Of course, these decent scenes make up only a small portion of the runtime, but if Michaelangelo could see angels in the marble slabs he sculpted, I can surely see a great movie in this mess.

All in all, “Strays” has cemented itself as an honest attempt at a movie with too much lacking in the comedy department to warrant enjoyment. In that regard, “Strays” certainly did bark up the wrong tree. Maybe if the writers focused more on the characters rather than shoehorning egregious humor into each situation, we would’ve had a genuine classic on our hands.

It is a doggone shame this didn’t come into fruition.

Courtesy of Tribune

“Strays,” released on Aug. 18, missed the mark with its attempts at humor.

Lifestyle

‘Ashoka’ brings new promise to ‘Star Wars’ franchise

machine. Many of their productions fall flat with audiences, as they feel rushed and poorly produced. It’s obvious that “ObiWan” is meant for a movie format and “Boba Fett” is a completely unnecessary show. Even “The Mandalorian” has faltered in its third season.

Occasionally, a hidden gem emerges, such as “Andor,” that stands on its own. “Andor” didn’t rely on surprise cameos or the overarching “Star Wars” story. It had good characters and an impact on viewers. However, many didn’t watch it because of previous content.

SPOILER ALERT

Since 2008, “Star Wars” fans have been captivated by producer, screenwriter and director Dave Filoni’s animated creation Ahsoka Tano.

She is a rare example of an animated “Star Wars” character that has transcended into live-action.

A new show featuring the titular character debuted on Wednesday with hopes that it can save the struggling “Star Wars” pantheon of shows and movies.

Disney+ is grappling with failure after releasing a host of lackluster additions to the Marvel and “Star Wars” universes to feed their streaming

For fans who are still devoted after multiple cancellations, half-produced shows and delays, “Ahsoka” is a make-or-break moment. Either fans will reignite their hope in “Star Wars,” or they will call it a day on any new production.

Luckily for fans, the first two episodes of “Ahsoka” are a slam dunk for Filioni. The show returns to the “Clone Wars” and “Rebels” eras mixed with notes of the originals and prequels. The show draws on content from Legends- “Star Wars” lore that remains non-canon as it follows the search for the missing Grand Admiral Thrawn.

Ahsoka Tano (Rosario Dawson),

Sabine Wren (Natasha Liu Bordizzo), Hera Syndulla (Mary Elizabeth Winstead) and the infamous Chopper (Dave Filoni) team up to track down Thrawn (Lars Mikkelsen) and possibly Ezra Bridger (Eman Esfandi), who disappeared at the end of “Rebels,” before Thrawn’s allies find him.

The production and writing of the show is well done with Filoni at the helm. From using a puppet for the Loth Cat to the scenes dripping with “Clone Wars” style dialogue, this show feels nostalgic without beating you over the head. The story is simple but effective. It ties into previous shows and has an effect on the galaxy, but it feels secluded. It feels separated from the movie storylines, and its trek into Legends content makes for a more interesting watch. Filoni has always added new fascinating lore to “Star Wars,” and used his previous productions to explore the depths of the force. This style works well for Filioni because there is so much untapped knowledge of the Force.

The characters are well-written, and the live-action actors mirror their animated counterparts beautifully.

The female-heavy cast works well because these women have been established as heavy hitters across multiple

series. Their actions and stories speak for them, and they are far from the mishandling of Rey in the sequels.

The villains are interesting, with new information coming to light on Morgan Elsbeth (Diana Lee Inosanto) that ties into “Clone Wars.” Baylon Skoll, played by the late Ray Stevenson, is something in between a Jedi and a Sith. He reveres the Jedi ways as sacred, but his lust for power twists his ideals. His padawan, Shin Hati (Ivanna Sakhno), is quiet, yet menacing.

The callbacks are not heavyhanded. There are a few here and there, but they’re not the center of the story. Subtle notes of musical motifs are present in the score by “Clone Wars” and “Rebels” composer Kevin Knier. There are little symbols of previous shows that can be spotted, but Filoni doesn’t need to throw in a cameo to improve the show.

“Ahsoka” started strong with a straightforward story and well-executed first two episodes. The show has the ability to stand on its own if it maintains its current trajectory. Only time will tell if “Ahsoka” can stand out amongst the rest.

entertainment.ed@ocolly.com

Courtesy of Creative Commons

Disney+’s new tv series, “Ashoka,” has delivered an exceptional story line during the first two episodes.

Hayden Alexander Staff Reporter

Review

Week 1 QB doesn’t always keep the job

too close to call, and each was listed as a potential starter on Thursday’s depth chart. But regardless of who starts Week 1, history shows the job might not be settled.

Gordon making strides, but Cowgirl goalie competition ongoing

Grace Gordon isn’t making it easy on the coaches to take her out of the match.

OSU coach Colin Carmichael said before the season he hoped to have a starting goalkeeper named by Game 6. And he has several goalies who are battling for the job. But as the season is underway, Gordon has

started the Cowgirls’ first two games, including a full-game performance with two saves.

“It wasn’t what the other keepers hadn’t done, it was more that Grace probably gave us the best weapon to try to win that game,” Carmichael said.

But the Cowgirls lost, and the job isn’t officially settled.

When last year’s starter Jordan Nytes transferred to Colorado, the Cowgirls had to find a replacement. Ary Purifoy,

Caroline Dill and Gordon shared playing time at goalkeeper in the preseason exhibition, and Purifoy has subbed in for Gordon in the regular season. Gordon offers experience and has been the choice early, but Carmicheal is still taking it game-by-game.

“We will pick the player all of the time that we think is going to help us in that moment,” Carmichael said.

See Goalie on 4B

Grace Yochum enjoying new job as OSU assistant soccer coach

Grace Yochum always wanted to pursue a coaching gig, even in the prime of her college soccer career.

She’d been to her own college soccer mountaintop before. A career with Oklahoma State saw her depart as the program’s all-time leading goal scorer (41), endure a plethora of double teams from opposing defenders in her later years, and she had multiple opportunities to play professionally.

Now, she’s back in the same territory that made that mountaintop possible. This time, as OSU’s director of player development.

How did her new life chapter come into fruition?

Carmichael implanted the idea of coaching into Yochum’s mind when he convinced her to use her COVID-19 year of eligibility. He mentioned a potential staff position the NCAA was considering, ridding college athletics of the “volunteer coach.”

Her reaction?

“Initially I thought to myself, ‘Uh, I want to play professionally,’” Yochum told The O’Colly. “I was, of course, receptive, but I was still wanting to pursue a (professional) career.”

But things change.

The Chicago Red Stars drafted Yochum 14th overall in the 2023 NWSL Draft, but recurrent injuries sustained during her college brought an abrupt end to those professional aspirations.

See Yochum on 6B

OSU’s Zac Robinson seized the starting quarterback role just three games into the 2007 season.

He sent former starter Bobby Reid – the only fivestar recruit in program history – to the bench. Shortly thereafter, Robinson led the team to consecutive ninewin seasons from 2008-09.

Robinson’s path to an OSU starting quarterback has been recurrent throughout the Mike Gundy era.

Each of OSU’s past five “star” quarterbacks spent at least one season as the backup or took over as the starter midseason. During Gundy’s 18 seasons as head coach, a quarterback competition has carried into the fall.

Now, Gundy and Co. face a similar dilemma.

Four-year starter Spencer Sanders transferred to Ole Miss, setting up a battle for the job. On one side lies Bowman, with his 5,329 career passing yards and 34 touchdowns. On the other lies prospects with a purported upside and experience in OSU’s offense in redshirt freshman Garret Rangel and redshirt sophomore Gunnar Gundy.

Gundy says it’s still

“When in doubt, teams tend to default toward the experienced guys (at quarterback),” ESPN’s Pete Thamel told The O’Colly. “Teams tend to default toward the guys who make the least amount of mistakes.

“And I think (Bowman is) going to fit that mold really well.”

Behind Robinson in 2009 was Brandon Weeden, who had to wait for his time. Once a third-string, Weeden held the reins of the OSU offense in arguably the program’s most memorable seasons. In 2010 and ‘11, the Cowboys went 23-3, won a Big 12 title (2011) and downed No. 4 Stanford in the Fiesta Bowl.

After Weeden was drafted, Clint Chelf, who arrived in 2009, thought he was next in line for 2012. But fate trended elsewhere when freshman Wes Lunt started the season at QB.

“I just remember getting called into the office and being told that I wasn’t the starter,” Chelf said. “It was a tough pill to swallow. I obviously thought I should have been the starter, and I knew I was talented enough. “The coaches thought otherwise.”

See Week 1 QB on 7B

See on Pg. 2B See on Pg. 4B

Ethan Scott

Grace Yochum went from OSU’s all-time leading goal scorer to director of player development.

Ethan Scott

Grace Gordon started the Cowgirls first two games, but OSU coach Colin Carmichael is still evaluating the starting goalkeeper position.

Freshmen make up more than 1/3 of the Cowgirl soccer team, and some have already started to make an impact.

Ethan Scott

Bindbeutel bringing energy for Cowgirls despite ACL injury.

Daniel Allen Staff Reporter

Tessa Dorrell Staff Reporter

One goal

‘He’s

OSU’s deep freshman class contributing early

Baylor Bryant Staff Reporter

With no Grace Yochum or Olyvia Dowell threatening to score for the Cowgirls this season, OSU is relying on its youth.

OSU brought in 10 freshmen this season, making up more than 1/3 of its roster. In the short time the freshmen have been with the team, coach Colin Carmichael and players have noticed the impact they have made.

Despite the number of new faces on the team, Carmichael is taking it like the start of any other season.

“It’s probably no difference, just the number,” Carmichael said. “We normally have five or six freshmen, maybe seven. You’re always integrating new players. This group... it’s just a few more, but their talent level is good.”

Megan Haines, a senior forward/midfielder, reshmen contributions.

“I think this freshman class, just in the exhibition game, two of our freshmen scored the two goals that we had, so I think that alone stood out.” Haines said. “So, I think all of them are just willing to learn and kind of take on board how we play here. I think all of them just have good work ethics and are willing to do whatever

for the team.” Wilson, a freshman midfielder, scored one of the goals in the exhibition game as well as one in the season opener.

“We just have to learn to play with each other,” Wilson said.

“I think with it being new and transfers I think it’s kind of a little bit of a hard moment right now because we’re trying to learn who fits with who, who

Cowgirl soccer schedule

Aug. 27: vs Little Rock

Aug. 31: @ Texas State

Sept. 3: vs Central Arkansas

Sept. 7: @ Arkansas State

Sept. 10: @ SMU

Sept. 14: @ Iowa State

Sept. 17: vs Abilene Christian

Sept. 21: vs Kansas

Sept. 24: vs Kansas State

Sept. 28: vs UCF

Oct. 1: @ TCU

Oct. 5: @ Cincinnati

Oct. 8: @ West Virginia

Oct. 12: vs BYU

plays with who well. I think when we do get to that stage, which I think it will be soon, I think we will be a really, really good team, no matter our age.”

sports.ed@ocolly.com

Oct. 15: @ Texas Tech

Oct. 23: vs Oklahoma

Oct. 28–Nov. 4: Big 12

Championship

OSU should make soccer matches free to maintain high attendance

Gabriel Trevino Columnist

For many an OSU soccer match is the first athletic event students attend.

As student enrollment continues to break records, Neal Patterson Stadium sees large crowds for the first couple weeks of the fall semester. But once football fever starts, the number free falls.

The venue is in an accessible area of campus for all on-campus residents (besides those at Bennett Hall), and it’s much newer than Cowgirl Stadium, so what’s the deal?

The Cowgirls have been an average team the past two seasons, missing out on the NCAA tournament in both,

and with a squad full of freshmen and transfers, the future is uncertain.

While there was a consistent group of about 700 people at each game last season, the stadium appears empty when it seats 2,500.

“Over the years, winning helps,” said Cowgirls coach Colin Carmichael. “If your program is winning, people pay attention and they come watch. Our job is to win and hopefully entertain and play in a style where people want to come watch. When we do that, the crowds are amazing.”

Most “small” sports run into this problem. In the days before Kenny Gajewski took over OSU softball and turned it into a considerable program, not many other than parents and locals

showed up to those games.

Soccer faces not much competition for attendance in its season either. Yeah, football games will always win on Saturdays, but there isn’t basketball or wrestling or baseball to take fans away on a Thursday night game.

OSU — whether the team is good or not — should incentivize fans to support its other programs. Make tickets free for all, at least for some games. Allow students who have all sports passes to receive benefits for attending games. Create promotions, such as when for a women’s basketball game vs Baylor last season when free t-shirts were given out and attendance increased by 87% from the previous home game.

This could create more fans

invested in soccer as a sport as a whole, and if the program evolves back to a level it was not too long ago, it can maintain a level of support that will last longer than the first week of September or a Bedlam game.

“I think the community in Stillwater and the students really support OSU athletics when their teams give them something to be proud of,” Carmichael said. “There’s a responsibility on us to play an exciting brand and hopefully win some games. The students will come out if they do that. That’s been my experience, anyway.”

sports.ed@ocolly.com

Freshman Laudan Wilson has made an immediate impact on the Cowgirl offense, scoring a goal in both the exhibition and season opener.

Ethan Scott

Injured Bindbeutel still leading OSU

the next four years with Gracie B.”

Cowgirls counting on Allen’s scoring

As the 2023 college soccer season embarks, new roles loom for several returning Cowgirl soccer members, including sophomore forward Sami Allen.

Last year, she played just 100 minutes and took two shots. However, given the loss of key scorers such as Grace Yochum and Olyvia Dowell — both top five in career goals at OSU — a new offensive catalyst for the Cowgirls is needed.

Allen, an Oklahoma Gatorade Player of the Year, is built for that role.

“She scores goals… a lot of them,” said coach Colin Carmichael. “There’s no shortage of those with her.”

Allen is dealing with an undisclosed injury suffered in OSU’s spring finale against Tulsa. However, Carmichael told The O’Colly she could return as early as this week,

and he’s optimistic that may be the case. Without Yochum and Dowell, and with fellow sophomore Gracie Bindbeutel out for the season with a torn ACL, Allen could stabilize the offensive front.

Flashes of Allen’s talent were on display at times her freshman year. And while she didn’t score, Carmichael said she created numerous opportunities with her “high soccer I.Q.”

“She’s brilliant,” Carmichael said. “She really is. Sami’s production might have been, I guess, overlooked a little given who she had around her last season.”

Dowell echoed Carmichael’s praise on numerous occasions last season. Not to mention, that applause came during Allen’s freshman season.

“Sami is so quick and shifty, it’s hard for defenders to pick up on her,” Dowell said last season. “And displaying that as a freshman is pretty impressive. She’ll do some -

thing one moment and then leave you thinking, ‘Oh there’s absolutely no way she can top that.’ And then lo and behold, she does in fact top (it) minutes later. And she’s just so good at creating opportunities for others.”

So, can Cowgirl fans expect a breakout season from the secondyear homegrown prospect? Her teammates believe so. So do her coaches. Time will tell, but with such a young team, what better time than now?

“Sami is the hardest working, most persistent young woman I’ve watched,” said her mother, Stephanie Allen. “That girl’s been through so much in life and yet she’s still come out on top.

“I know it may seem a little biased because I am in fact her mother. But I say this neutrally; I haven’t seen someone go through as much adversity as she has and still come out the way she has. She’s such a fighter.”

sports.ed@ocolly.com

Gracie Bindbeutel is part of the Cowgirl soccer team’s leadership group, which only a select few are voted into by coaches and players.

The honor didn’t stem from the sophomore midfielder’s play, though she earned it with 17 starts as a freshman. Instead, it came from her encouragement and commitment to the team while dealing with a big obstacle.

A torn ACL.

OSU coach Colin Carmichael said Bindbeutel is out for the season, but that hasn’t stopped her from continuing to be a leader and cornerstone of the team in whatever capacity she can.

“She’s just such a positive influence,” Carmichael said. “That kid, she’s always smiling. She’s upbeat. You hear her on the bench encouraging her teammates. This isn’t the role she wants to play, but it’s the role she’s been forced to play. I can’t wait for

Bindbeutel scored four goals as a freshman, establishing herself as a building block for Cowgirl soccer. Then, in the final spring match, she was injured, ending her sophomore season.

“It was weird because the worst injury I had ever had was a concussion,” Bindbeutel told The O’Colly. “I’ve never had any bone injuries or joint pain or anything like that, so when I went down, I kinda knew that it was bad.” That could have shrunk her into a shell. Not Bindbeutel. She continues to show up to each practice with a smile, never losing the contagious energy that makes her an inspiration to her teammates.

“She’s such a fun person to be around,” said forward Logan Heausler. “She’s super positive and uplifting, and she’s the loudest person you’ll hear on the bench any game.”

sports.ed@ocolly.com

File Photo

Sami Allen is still recovering from an injury from spring, but coach Colin Carmichael is optimistic she will return soon. The former Oklahoma Gatorade Player of the Year could be an offensive catalyst on a young roster.

Calif Poncy Staff Reporter

Goalie...

Continued from 1B

Gordon, a senior, joined the Cowgirls after three seasons at Seton Hall, where she recorded 253 saves across 45 starts, including 1,500 minutes last season. With a young team made up of more than 1/3 freshmen, that experience at a key position is important.

Bowman bringing an ‘adult’ presence to Cowboy football

noticed there was something different about Bowman that everyone was drawn to.

“You could tell he’s just – an adult,” Nixon said.

fenses – and maybe more importantly, defenses –separated him and made Brooks a better player. And physically, Bowman’s arm strength was just as impressive.

Braden Bush

Sports Editor

Alan Bowman is 23 with a bachelor’s degree from Texas Tech and a master’s from Michigan.

“And he’s married,” redshirt sophomore running back Jaden Nixon added.

Bowman, OSU’s sixth-year transfer quarterback, brings an element of maturity to a Cowboys team that was looking for stability after major losses in the transfer portal following the 2022 season. Losses such as senior quarterback Spencer Sanders and team captain receiver John Paul Richardson.

The Cowboys needed experience and a fresh start. So did Bowman.

He flourished in his freshman season at Texas Tech, passing for 2,638 yards and 17 touchdowns but battled injuries the next two seasons. After transferring to Michigan, Bowman was the backup for two seasons, appearing in six games.

In some ways, Bowman and OSU are similar. OSU gave Bowman a fresh start, and he brought his experienced, grownup demeanor that comes with five years of college football – a freshness the Cowboys were looking for. The team accepted Bowman right away and

*****

The first thing Kevin Johns noticed about Bowman was his demeanor and intelligence. That’s often coachspeak, but for Johns, Texas Tech’s offense coordinator during Bowman’s freshman season, he meant it. A freshman doesn’t often perform and succeed at such a high level immediately. Especially in the wide-open offense he was in.

“He learned the offense extremely early on and quickly and handled everything really well, which, playing for (former Texas Tech coach) Kliff Kingsbury is not easy –there’s a lot of plays and a lot of schemes,” Johns said, “but he did a great job of handling it.”

That goes back to Bowman’s demeanor and intelligence, which Johns said is what allowed Bowman to thrive as a freshman.

Johns wasn’t the only person drawn to Bowman. Tahj Brooks, a freshman running back Bowman’s final year at Tech in 2020, said off the field, Bowman was his go-to for knowledge on college life.

“That’s my guy,” Brooks said.

On the field, Brooks still leaned on Bowman, whose knowledge of of-

Johns won’t argue that.

“He thinks he can make every throw on the field,” Johns said. “And he’s probably right.”

But when Bowman didn’t get to show that ability at Michigan, he found himself in the same spot as when he left Texas Tech; The portal, looking for a fit.

Bowman told The Athletic he made a latenight drive to Stillwater so he could meet with OSU offensive coordinator Kasey Dunn the next morning. Bowman didn’t need to see the locker room or hear a pitch, though. Just like his freshman year, he wanted to get to work.

“All I want to do is get in that film room and see if this offense is gonna be a fit for me,” Bowman told Dunn, in The Athletic. No fancy visit or recruitment. Just a focus on film and work. Right then, OSU saw what it was getting at quarterback.

*****

Mike Gundy watched Bowman walk into the weight room this offseason and couldn’t help but make a comparison.

Bowman had his hair wetted back, he had a backpack on and was bright-eyed and smiling

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while handing out high fives as he walked in for a morning workout. A glance around the room at teammates – hair all a wreck, looking like they just rolled out of bed – the difference between Bowman and the rest of the team was apparent.

“He kind of looked like Opie on his way to school,” Gundy said. “You know, like real mature.

“The older we all get, we think things through in most cases. The other part of our life kind of goes behind us, and you can kind of see that with him.”

Staying sharp isn’t new to OSU, though. Bowman was known for presentation amongst Red Raiders, too.

“Alan was like a pretty boy,” Brooks said. “Like a pretty-boy quarterback. He liked to be nice, and he’d be clean for practice.”

Either way, Gundy isn’t the only person aware of Bowman’s mature look. Offensive lineman Jake Springfield noticed Bowman’s prepractice routine: walk in, greet every player and give them a high five.

That gesture every morning registers with Springfield. It’s something different. It’s the kind of thing that earns the respect of and rubs off on a team, which Bowman has.

“He’s really big on holding people accountable,” Springfield said. “We’ll follow him anywhere.”

sports.ed@ocolly.com

A goalkeeper has attention focused on them, and the job comes with responsibility. A big part of that is leadership, and freshman Laudan Wilson said Gordon does not fall short.

“Even though she is new, she has fit in with the team really well,” Wilson said. “People do respect her because she is a goalkeeper. She commands our backline on the field…Off the field she has a voice, and I definitely listen to it, too, because she is a great person.”

Purifoy has experience, too. This is her third year on the team, and she made two starts last season with eight saves. Dill is a freshman, but she

was a 2022 United Soccer Coaches All-American as a high school senior. Both are pushing Gordon for the job.

“The competition we have is insane,” Gordon said. “We are pushing each other every practice competing for that No. 1 spot, and it keeps us on our toes. This environment challenges every single person in it, and it makes everyone better.”

Carmichael said the race for the goalkeeper position is harder to win than other spots on the field because only one goalie plays at a time. It’s not like a forward or a midfielder. A goalie either plays, or they don’t.

Carmichael is comfortable keeping the competition going until he and his staff are sure. Gordon has made strides and earned the confidence of coaches early, but the starting goalkeeper job still isn’t cemented.

“All four of our goalkeepers are close,” Carmichael said. “There is no separation upward, and there is certainly not one down either. It’s going to be tough, but it will be an ongoing process.”

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File Photo

Junior Ary Purifoy started twice last season and is battling Gordon for the starting goalkeeper job.

Ethan Scott

OSU gave quarterback Alan Bowman the fresh start he needed, and Bowman is giving OSU the experience and maturity it needed.

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Daily Horoscope

Nancy Black

Tribune Content Agency

Linda Black Horoscopes

Today’s Birthday (08/25/23). Expand horizons for adventure this year. Deepen bonds with reliable routines and collaboration. Harvest autumn bounty and conserve, before winter investigations take a new tack. Resolving springtime fina tivates you and your partner into a lucrative summer. Investigate subjects of fascina tion, curiosity and wonder.

To get the advantage, check the day’s rating: 10 is the easiest day, 0 the most chal lenging.

Aries (March 21-April 19) — Today is a 7 — The road you’re on leads you in the right direction. Complications in communication systems could impact your itinerary, though. Follow a long-held dream.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) — Today is an 8 — Changes necessitate budget revisions. Work with someone who sees your blind spot. Miscommunications could lock a financial door. Pull together for common gain.

Gemini (May 21-June 20) — Today is a 6 — Keep your patience and humor with your partner. Miscommunications and breakdowns could tempt arguments. Keep promises and agreements. Pull together around a challenge.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) — Today is an 8 — Adapt work and health routines around a change or challenge. Think twice before blurting something out that you might later regret. Rest extra.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) — Today is a 6 — Have fun without getting impulsive. Enjoy your favorite games, stories and music. Patiently clarify misunderstandings. Plan for unexpected expenses or delays. Simplify and relax.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) — Today is a 7 — Ensure that domestic systems flow smoothly, despite possible misunderstandings. Extra patience pays with family. Include comfort food in the schedule. Share the load.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) — Today is an 8 — Engage with a challenging intellectual puzzle. Your communication skills and creativity come in handy. Simplify and clarify discoveries for a wider audience. Patiently repeat.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) — Today is an 8 — Monitor financial accounts and expenses carefully. Review the data to avoid costly mistakes. Avoid cons or scams. Watch consumption patterns to catch discrepancies.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) — Today is an 8 — Take charge for the results you want. Don’t take a misunderstanding personally. Patiently navigate obstacles or complications to advance your cause. Determination beats confusion.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) — Today is a 7 — You may feel especially sensitive. Take time to rest, decompress and recharge. Balance emotion with reason. Clarify misunderstandings or misinformation. Prepare and plan. Strategize.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) — Today is an 8 — Advance team goals with determination and a positive outlook. Listen and observe. You don’t have the full story. Get tools and supplies together.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) — Today is an 8 — Advance a professional project. Get clear on the desired result before pushing for it. Context matters. Strengthen communications and clarify misunderstandings as they occur.

6

ACROSS

Edited by Patti Varol and Joyce Lewis

Doug Peterson

Solution to Thursday’s puzzle

Complete the grid so each row, column and 3-by-3 box (in bold borders) contains every digit, 1 to 9. For strategies on how to solve Sudoku, visit sudoku.org.uk

Smith embracing larger role in young Cowboys secondary

back home and talk about how crazy it was—the jitters and the rush being in front of the fans,” Daniels said of his and Smith’s conversations.

Entering this season, Daniels is a Preseason

squad failed to fold under pressure despite the highintensity environment. As a veteran now, despite being a redshirt sophomore, he looks back to October as a reminder of how to lead the Cowboy defense moving forward.

OSU safety

Kendal

Daniels buys groceries, and defensive back Cam Smith eats out.

Although the two’s eating habits differed, their opportunities on the 2022–23 squad were rather aligned, considering the pair of roommates were the only freshmen starters on the defensive side of the ball.

After an exodus of Cowboy players on defense following last season, the former roomies are having to grow up fast. Honestly, though, they aged last season, too.

“We would just go

All-Big 12 Football Team selectee and will play the rover position in Bryan Nardo’s 3-3-5 defensive scheme.

Smith, however, doesn’t have any preseason accolades and is still rather unknown throughout the Big 12 landscape. After earning his first start against Texas last season, Smith began to grow more comfortable but didn’t feel settled in until the Guaranteed Rate Bowl against Wisconsin over two months later.

In the Homecoming game against Texas, Smith remembers how the veterans on last year’s

“Even though I was 19, I still had to kind of act like a starter and act like the older guys,” Smith said last of season. “...Snaps, practice reps, all that (helped Smith become more comfortable).”

Although Smith prefers a grocery bag to a takeout bag, he and Daniels are ready to lead the OSU defense in a big way, despite being the young “old guys.”

“We’re mature now, and we got experience, and we played against big names. I’ve seen him grow up as he’s seen me grow up,” Daniels said.

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Yochum...

Continued from 1B

Now, Yochum is back at Neal Patterson Stadium, where she spent the spring season mentoring incoming freshmen and first-year players. Her first action in her new role, though, came in the Aug. 17 season opener.

For the first time in five years, a Cowgirl not named Yochum is sporting the No. 11 -- freshman midfielder Laudan Wilson, who Yochum said reminds her of herself.

And as for Wilson’s credited source for a successful start to her freshman year: “Being around someone like (Yochum) is definitely a part in it.”

And why wouldn’t it? An opportunity to learn under a touted play-

er such as Yochum is one a young college prospect wouldn’t pass on.

With less than a year at her new position, not many local high school recruits have passed that opportunity either. As a result, Carmichael said the program’s recruiting success has increased.

“I mean, what better mentor (for these younger players)?” Carmichael said. “For recruits to come in here and say, ‘Hey, I want to be that. I want to be a scholar AllAmerican. I want to be an All-American.’

“As we’ve told our younger players, they have one of the best resources to talk about when they’re dealing with adversity.”

Her former teammates – now upperclassmen – enjoy playing under Yochum. But amongst all the good in it, there still

lies one minor concern.

“She does have an orange golf cart now,” Carmichael said. “She’s taking no prisoners.”

Senior defender

Mollie Breiner said she often notices Yochum’s golf cart hogwash from her house.

“Allie Jackson (my former teammate) lives right down the street from me,” Breiner said. “Sometimes when (Yochum) picks her up in the morning or whenever, I’ll just see it zoom by my window. I know it’s always her.”

The bridge to her pipe dream of becoming a college soccer coach now exists, and one thing remains certain:

“It’s great to be back,” Yochum said.

sports.ed@ocolly.com

File Photo

Cam Smith has quickly become one of the veterans on OSU’s defense.

Ashton Slaughter

Asst. Sports Editor

Davis Cordova

Coach Colin Carmichael said having a former All-American such as Grace Yochum on the sidelines acts as a good example for a young team.

What OSU’s depth chart looks like for first game

The question marks that plagued OSU’s offseason weren’t answered firmly before the Cowboys’ first game next Saturday.

OSU released the team’s depth chart on Thursday for the first game of the season vs Central Arkansas on Sept. 2, but it didn’t show which players are clear starters. Coach Mike Gundy said he wants to let players who are worthy of starting share playing time with others; from quarterbacks to safeties.

The O’Colly analyzed the depth chart and created three storylines to focus on for the first few weeks of the season.

Who is starting in the backfield?

There isn’t a definitive answer, and Gundy said he won’t have a plan on how Alan Bowman, Garret Rangel and Gunnar Gundy will split snaps to begin the season.

“We will play multiple quarterbacks,” Mike said. “Maybe for a while.”

When asked to clarify what “multiple” meant, Gundy said “more than one.”

The depth chart is listed as following:

Alan Bowman or Gun-

nar Gundy or Garret Rangel.

The order of “or” doesn’t appear to be first, second and third string, but by numerical jersey number order. This pattern, however, isn’t consistent with other positions. Gundy didn’t say who would appear on the field first, so it’s unkown until one of them steps out there.

The starting running back is a similar mystery.

The depth chart goes as follows: Ollie Gordon or Jaden Nixon or Elijah Collins.

Unlike quarterback, though, running backs cycling through snaps makes sense, and can be beneficial for the team, as it keeps legs fresh and different skill sets to shine in certain packages.

How did the transfers do?

Only one transfer players — De’Zhaun Stribling — solidified a starting job on OSU’s depth chart. Stribling, a wide receiver from Washing State, appears to be the starting X receiver. Four transfers are in a battle to start. Josiah Johnson, from UMass, is competing with Quinton Stewart to be the team’s No. 1 tight end. Bowman and Collins are in a three-headed race for their positions, and Tulsa transfer linebacker is listed with an “or” under Nickolas Martin.

Fellow Tulsa transfer An-

thony Goodlow is a second string defensive end behind Kody Walterscheid, who started the last three games of OSU’s 2022 season.

Dalton Cooper, a tackle from Texas State, is behind Cole Birmingham, who missed last season with a torn ACL, as the team’s left tackle. Six-foot-five receiver Leon Johnson III is behind Stribling and redshirt freshman Talyn Shettron for a spot on the outside.

Special teams talk

Logan Ward started as OSU’s punter for the last five games after Tom Hutton tore his ACL. Now, Ward is the team’s backup kicker.

Wes Pahl, a former walk-on at Western Kentucky, is the Cowboys’ new starter. For the Hilltoppers last year, he was the holder on field goals and PATs. Hudson Kaak, a 22-year-old freshman from Australia, is the backup.

Ward is still the team’s kickoff specialist, with Alex Hale being the place kicker. Hale started for the Cowboys in 2020 and 2021 before losing the job halfway through the ‘21 season to Tanner Brown. With Brown gone, Hale returns to the field in his sixth year of college football.

sports.ed@ocolly.com

Continued from 1B

Chelf took over for an injured Lunt late in the season and guided the Cowboys to a 3-2 finish. And still, he wasn’t awarded the starting job the next season. Instead, it was redshirt sophomore J.W. Walsh.

“That one was even tougher on me,” Chelf said.

But by Game 7, Chelf earned the starting spot and didn’t look back. Five wins, 2,169 passing yards, 17 touchdowns across seven games.

Again in 2014, Mason Rudolph began the year as OSU’s third-string option. He left as the program’s career passing leader with 13,618 yards and 92 touchdowns.

Most recently, Sanders was the Cow-

boys’ fourth-string quarterback in 2018.

Three years later, he led OSU to its first 12-win season since 2011 and a Fiesta Bowl win over No. 5 Notre Dame.

So, has OSU struggled in choosing its Week 1 starter?

Chelf sees both sides of the argument.

“I think there’s points to be made for yes and no,” he said. “But it’s a hard decision to make ultimately because as a coach, you’ve got to make the right one. I can’t speak for (Gundy), but I can’t imagine how hard something like what they’ve got going on right now.”

Traditionally, Gundy and Co. has leaned toward experience over potential. But Rangel has been in a battle before. At Lone Star (Frisco, Texas), he beat out a transfer quarterback for the starting spot,

then went 30-8 as a starter.

“Garret has never shied away from competition,” his father, Jerry, said. “He’s been there before in crowded quarterback rooms. But it just motivates him even more to get better and succeed.”

So, will the Cowboys stick with experience in Bowman? Or will Mike Gundy hand Rangel or Gunnar Gundy the reins, as his next quarterback? Either way, the future doesn’t always show itself right away.

“I think the interesting thing at OSU is that you’ve seen a lot of quarterbacks emerge, sort of out of nowhere,” Chelf said. “Coach Gundy has made wrong choices on quarterbacks before, and I’m sure he’ll be the first to say it.”

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Davis Cordova

In OSU’s first depth chart of the season, three quarterbacks were named as the possible starter.

File Photo

Alan Bowman (7), Garret Rangel (13) and Gunnar Gundy were all listed as starting quarterback options on Thursday’s depth chart.