Friday, July 19, 2024
Amazon’s latest series “My Lady Jane” is a modern take on period dramas
Review
Amazon’s newest original series, based on the New York Times bestselling novel My Lady Jane, is a witty ode to the romantic genre mixed with historical fiction in a hilariously perfect way.
The show is a different flavor of period drama, outshining and possibly dethroning the current reigning drama, “Bridgerton.” Although they have similar beats, besides the romance themes, “My Lady Jane” wins by taking a comedic approach paired with higher stakes and a more entertaining storyline.
The show takes the sordid history of Lady Jane Grey, the “Nine Day Queen,” and changes the narrative.
The real Lady Jane Grey met her untimely end after being named the Queen of England by her cousin Edward VI, son of the infamous Henry VII. The people rebelled, favoring the direct line of succession, Princess Mary.
As a tragic turn of events, Queen Jane Grey is dethroned and beheaded, but not in this fairytale.
“My Lady Jane” gives an alternative ending in which Lady Jane Grey survives her queenship and is surrounded by fantastical humans that can change into animal forms known as Ethians.
The addition of the Ethian vs. Verity (normal, boring humans) is perfect for the story. It helps distinguish the story from historical fiction and adds an extra element of conflict.
The tension between the two groups has many real-world themes, but the fantasy element helps convey the themes without allowing the story to take too dark of a turn.
The potential legend of Johnson highlights Kansas State heading into 2024 season
Allen
Kansas State fans will see a new starter under center in 2024.
And that’s not necessarily a bad thing.
This season, the legend of Avery Johnson will be born. That is, at least, what many think. But with good reason.
Kansas State doesn’t get recruits like Johnson often. The Wildcats are a lot like Oklahoma State as a football program regarding the emphasis placed on prospect development. Neither program reels in a top-10 or top-20 recruiting class, but they identify under-the-radar recruits and develop them into college stars over the course of two to three seasons. Kansas State has thrived in that facet for decades, particularly as of late, going 10-4 and 9-4, respectively, the past two seasons.
However, when premier recruits such as Johnson come, taking advantage of his presence is key. That means using him as long as possible, to the greatest extent.
“For starters, he’s one of the best competitors I’ve been around,” Kansas
State head coach Chris Klieman said at Day 1 of the 2024 Big 12 Football Media Days.
“He’s going to be the fastest kid on the field all the time. And he’s got elite speed. But he throws it much better than people have probably given him credit for.
“We’re very fortunate to have him.” Johnson, a former four-star, top-100 recruit for the Wildcats in the 2023 class, was the 10th-highest-rated recruit in Kansas State football history. He has since been bumped out of the top 10 with the recent commitment of five-star 2025 tight end, Linkon Cure. But the hype looming around Johnson’s name is justified. Just ask college football pundits.
“I think he’s going to be the face of college football sooner or later,” ESPN’s Pete Thamel told The O’Colly. “His aurora. His flare. His football I.Q. All of it is unmatched. He’s a rare talent.” The Wildcats were 13-7 with former starting quarterback Will Howard starting, including a Big 12 Championship title game win against TCU in 2022 and an 8-4 record in regular season play in 2023. But Klieman knew Johnson was Kansas State’s future. So did Howard.
The narration and dialogue throughout the series also create a uniqueness to the story. Historical events are the template, but the modern stylization of popular young adult and adult fantasy is conveyed through modern tropes.
This show takes after shows like “Merlin” and tales like Robin Hood, with romance, mystery, adventures and a battle for the throne.
Stillwater Police Department retires K9,
welcomes another
ment, said K9 Egon will be missed and leaves a “legacy of excellence” in a statement.
The Stillwater Police Department is saying goodbye to one of its working dogs and welcoming a new one to its ranks.
K9 Egon, who has been with the department since November 2017, retired Friday. He served in the Special Projects Division with Detective Newly McSpadden. K9 Egon was certified in apprehension and narcotic detection.
Lt. TJ Low, public information officer for the depart-
“He is looking forward to retirement and living with the McSpadden family, to enjoy a well-deserved rest and pampering,” Low said.
K9 Egon will live with the McSpadden family during his retirement.
In his place, K9 Jaro will work with McSpadden and the Stillwater Police Department.
“SPD welcomes K9 Jaro and looks forward to continued efforts to safeguard residents and visitors,” Low said in a statement.
BookTok and other platforms are igniting with talk of romance, and “My Lady Jane” delivers on bringing the essence of the romantic genre to the screen.
Our Lady Jane Grey is an independent and fiercely smart young woman who wants nothing to do with society. She is an herbalist studying medicine with no intention of becoming Queen.
Unlucky for Jane she is thrust into an arranged marriage to save her family from ruin. That is right, I said “arranged” ladies and gentlemen. Other tropes include enemies to lovers, forbidden love and secret identities.
Secret identities come into play when Jane discovers that her husband, Guilford, is an Ethian. Conveniently, this discovery happens after the two wed. One problem: Ethianism and marriage to an Ethian are punishable by death.
Jane agrees to help Guilford cure his Ethian issue, and for a time, the two find common ground. However, things start to get complicated.
Jane is at the palace visiting her cousin, King Edward when the king is poisoned. She saves him in the plot twist of the century, but a murderous Princess Mary continues to plot the king’s death.
The king eventually disappears, leading Mary to declare him dead and claim the throne for herself. However, the king named Jane his heir in his will.
Suddenly, our fair lady is the queen of England and responsible for a kingdom, a court, and an enraged Princess Mary. Fun! One small problem is that Guilford can not control his transformations. By day, he is a horse, and by night, he is a man. So now Jane is leading a kingdom and technically committing treason.
The rest of the series follows Jane’s attempts to use her genius to combat the hatred of the court, her scheming mother, and Mary. She works to cure Guilford and also ends the laws outlawing Ethians.
The mind games, political warfare, and sometimes brutal intrigues of the palace give off a hint of “Game of Thrones” vibes but with funnier undertones. Too much happens to get into in this review, but Jane’s bold calculations drive Mary to madness and are intriguing to witness.
In true romantic fashion, Jane and Guildford cannot help but fall in love. Their chemistry is undeniable, and their relationship is humorous and intelligent. Both initially fight their feelings; Jane fears losing herself, and Guilford feels undeserving and afraid.
Guilford’s initial transformation as a child led to the death of his mother, and he fears hurting Jane and what she would think if he told her.
The pair eventually grow to care for each other as friends before their ability to deny their chemistry falters. This is one of my new all-time favorite romances.
By the end of the season, Jane, like her real-life namesake, is locked in the Tower of London, and Guilford’s secret is discovered. Jane’s work to free the Ethians pays off, and they crash her execution, free -
ing her.
Jane runs to a pyre to save Guilford from the flames but cannot break his bonds. In a Romeo and Juliet moment, Jane kisses Guilford, opting to die with him after falling in love.
The thought of Jane dying, and a prior moment allows Guilford to take control, change into a horse and escape with Jane.
Guilford is happy to run
away forever, but Jane knows she can not leave England in its current state. The two love birds set off to save the Ethians and take down Mary. Good emotional beats, a believable love story, and intelligent characters equal a fun and enjoyable first outing for
“My Lady Jane.” The show is one of the best so far in 2024. Season two is not confirmed, but the positive response is promising.
Check out season one of
“My Lady Jane” on Amazon and prepare for a romancefilled medieval adventure where the stakes are high and the humor is abundant.
Kennedy Thomason Editor-in-Chief
Although temperatures are high, days are long and present the perfect opportunity to get outside.
The sunny summer weather means you can spend more time exercising and enjoying time outdoors. Here are three ways to exercise and take advantage of the summer weather.
Perfecting your pickleball game
It’s all the rage, and your mom or older sisters are probably already on the bandwagon.
Although you can turn a pickleball match into a fashion statement with fashionable tennis skirts or polos, it can also be a quick dressed-down and easy way to exercise.
You will need pickleball paddles, a ball and a court to play on. If your community does not have a pickleball
court, a tennis court will also work.
Golf your afternoons away
Although known to be a highclass sport, golfing can be a relaxing way to spend a summer afternoon. It is a good occasion to bust out your preppy outfits fit for the pickleball court. Some golf courses have stricter rules than others, so be sure to check before you go. Polos, skirts, longer shorts, polos and tops that cover shoulders are all safe bets.
Swim in the sun
You may not be Olympic-level material, but that won’t stop you from getting a few laps in the pool.
Being able to swim in an outdoor pool is a great way to work on your
while getting some exercise in. It is also a great form of cardio to diversify your workouts because it is different from walking or running.
Carl and Marilynn Thoma Foundation create life-changing scholarship program at OSU
Courtesy of OSU News
A transformational gift from the Carl and Marilynn Thoma Foundation has established the Thoma Scholars Program at Oklahoma State University.
This innovative scholarship program aims to empower exceptional young leaders in underserved rural areas. It will award life-changing scholarships to students in Northwest Oklahoma, West Texas and Eastern New Mexico, enabling them to earn a college degree without debt.
“The Thoma Scholars Program represents our commitment to providing students from rural areas the opportunity to fulfill their potential,” Carl and Marilynn Thoma said. “As Oklahoma State alumni, we are excited to launch this initiative in partnership with OSU — a place we know has the right environment to help develop the next generation of leaders.”
The Thomas’ commitment to helping rural students succeed traces back to their Oklahoma roots. Carl grew up in the panhandle in Cimarron County, while Marilynn is from nearby Woodward County. As such, the Thomas deeply value rural communities and the high-character people they produce.
The creation of the Thoma Scholars Program is inspired by the strong work ethic instilled by their parents and grandparents, aiming to help students from similar backgrounds achieve success through hard work and perseverance. Approximately 20 students will be selected to join the program’s inaugural cohort. Once fully matriculated
with 20 students per class, the Thomas’ commitment of up to $2 million per year will be one of the most impactful scholarship programs at OSU.
“It’s fitting that one of OSU’s most significant awards is coming from self-made, hardworking entrepreneurs who got their start at OSU, the best land-grant university in the country,” said Blaire Atkinson, president of the OSU Foundation. “It’s a testament to their high character and love for the university that they’re paying it forward.”
The scholarships will ensure every scholar is provided a best-in-class opportunity for education and cover the cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, housing and meals, books and other educational expenses. It will also allow each recipient to study abroad. Along with financial aid, each Thoma Scholar will be admitted into
The Honors College, benefitting from personalized mentorship and support within a program that is nationally recognized for its outstanding curriculum and coursework, innovative K-12 outreach program, and robust experiential learning program.
Applications will open in fall 2024 for high school seniors within eligible rural counties who will graduate in spring 2025.
“On behalf of the OSU family, we thank Carl and Marilynn Thoma for their generous gift,” OSU President Kayse Shrum said. “The Thoma Scholars Program will afford more rural students access to an OSU education, allowing them to achieve their academic goals and chase their dreams. In alignment with our land-grant mission, these students will be poised to serve as the nex t generation of servant-leaders equipped to ad-
dress society’s most important challenges.”
After successful careers in brand management and private equity, the Thomas established the Carl & Marilynn Thoma Foundation in 1986 to fulfill their passion for philanthropy. The Thoma Foundation recognizes that the arts and education enhance lives and communities. It makes art collection-related grants, as well as lending and exhibiting its collection. The foundation focuses its education funding on the rural Southwest, striving to foster leadership, innovation and equal opportunity.
The Thomas have a long partnership with Oklahoma State. They have supported a variety of needs across OSU’s campus, including the Learning and Student Success Opportunity Center, the Carl & Marilynn Thoma Distinguished Chair in Hospitality and Tour-
ism Management, the Carl Thoma Distinguished Clinical Professorships in Entrepreneurship, and a new named position focused on the arts.
Further, the Thomas are Patron donors to The McKnight Center for the Performing Arts, visionaries and founders of the Wine Forum of Oklahoma, and in 2010, they both were inducted into the OSU Alumni Association Hall of Fame, the university’s highest honor.
“Empowering students from rural areas to excel in higher education is not just a mission — it’s our passion,” the Thomas said. “The Thoma Scholars Program honors the resilience and determination of those from rural communities by investing in their future and preparing them for success.”
Find more information on eligibility for the Thoma Scholars Program online.
news.ed@ocolly.com
2 OSU players drafted on final day of 2024 MLB Draft; brings the Cowboys’ total to 8 draftees overall
Daniel Allen Staff Reporter
By the conclusion of the 2024 MLB Draft, Oklahoma State was well represented. Day 3 of the draft, which ended Tuesday afternoon, saw two more Cowboys drafted, bringing OSU’s selection total to eight.
Right-handed reliever Tommy Molsky was drafted in the 12th round by the Kansas City Royals, while lefthander Ryan Ure went to the San Francisco Giants in the 19th round.
Molsky, a Penn State transfer,
COPPER CREEK NOW
was one of many transfer portal hits for the Cowboys in 2024. Molsky swiftly established himself as one of OSU’s high-end relievers, logging a 5.27 ERA – a notable improvement from his 6.84 and 7.17 ERA’s with Penn State from 2022-23 – in addition to 66 strikeouts, a .252 opponent batting average, a 33.7% strikeout rate and a 2.44 strikeout-towalk rate through 19 appearances, two starts and 41 innings pitched. Ure missed the 2023 season from Tommy John surgery rehab but didn’t show any negative signs this season. His fastball velocity was back to normal, sitting at a steady 97-99 mph, even eclipsing the 100-mph mark multiple times. Though he was primarily used for lefty-lefty matchups toward the tail
end of the season. Ure recorded a 4.91 ERA, nine strikeouts, a .318 opponent batting average, a 25% strikeout rate and a 2.25 strikeout-to-walk ratio through nine appearances and 3 2/3 innings pitched.
OSU’s eight draftees, which was tied for third nationally with four other schools – Oklahoma, Tennessee, Florida State and Arkansas. It marks the program’s highest total in two years, when the Cowboys had nine.
OSU players who were drafted
Carson Benge: New York Mets Round 1, Pick 19
Kash Mayfield (High School): San Diego Padres Round 1, Pick 25
Braylon Doughty (High School): Cleveland Guardians Round 1, Pick 36
Brian Holiday: St. Louis Cardinals Round 3, Pick 80
Zach Ehrhard: Boston Red Sox Round 4, Pick 115
Janzen Keisel: Tampa Bay Rays Round 6, Pick 186
Robert Cranz: Washington Nationals Round 7, Pick 200
Sam Garcia: Milwaukee Brewers Round 8, Pick 245
Tommy Molsky: Kansas City Royals Round 12, Pick 347
Ryan Ure: San Francisco Giants Round 19, Pick 568
sports.ed@ocolly.com
Kansas . . .
Continued from 1
So, Howard entered his name into the transfer portal ahead of Kansas State’s matchup against North Carolina State in the Pop Tart Bowl.
Johnson was set to make his first career collegiate start. And he didn’t disappoint.
Johnson threw for 178 yards and two touchdowns while rushing for 71 yards and one touchdown in a 28-19 win against the Wolfpack. Box score watchers might criticize his 45.2 completion percentage. However, Johnson didn’t play like a freshman. Several highcaliber throws against a top-tier Wolfpack defense showcased his upside.
Now, Klieman and Co. are hopeful it translates in 2024.
Former offensive coordinator Collin Klein departed for the same position at Texas A&M. So, Kleiman hired former Texas Tech and Utah State head coach Matt Wells to be the Wildcats’ quarterback coach and their co-offensive coordinator alongside Conor Riley.
At Utah State, Wells developed Green Bay Packers starting quarterback Jordan Love into a first-round draft selection. At Texas Tech, he worked with Henry Columbi, who followed Wells from Utah State to Lubbock, and recruited current starter Behren Morton. From 2022-23 as an offensive analyst at Oklahoma, Wells aided in the development and surge of quarterback Dillon Gabriel.
Wells has a track record of working with star college quarterbacks. Klieman hopes the same can be done with
Kansas State’s star in the making.
Because as of Aug. 31, the legend of Johnson will commence. And all of college football will be taking note.
“He’s a confident kid,” Klieman said. “He’s not an arrogant kid. He’s just very confident. And he makes everybody around him. I’ve seen it this
spring where he’s brought wide outs and running backs, and tight ends together and kind of led some of the captains’ things. He’s a true leader. And we’re talking about a kid who’s a true sophomore. So, I’m excited because his trajectory is just going up.”These new numbers bring the city’s total cases to 5,179 with 16 deaths and 4,697 recoveries.
On the state level, the
health department reported 1,837 new cases, bringing the total confirmed positive cases to 356,816. The state also reported seven new COVID-19 related deaths, bringing the total to 2,994. There have been 314,236 total recoveries since COVID reached Oklahoma in March. Oklahoma state officials are encouraging Oklahomans to wash their hands, stay away
Monday - Wednesday: 10:00am - 10:00pm Thursday - Saturday: 10:00am - 11:00pm
from sick individuals and avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. The virus is primarily spread from person-to-person with symptoms usually appearing two to 14 days after exposure. The most common symptoms of the coronavirus are fever, cough, shortness of breath or loss of taste or s
OSU women’s basketball coach announces pregnancy July 11
Kenzie Kraich Staff Reporter
Additions have been made for the Oklahoma State women’s basketball team in the offseason, but head coach Jacie Hoyt is preparing to introduce yet
another addition to the Cowgirl family.
Hoyt announced July 11 via social media that she and her husband, Daniel Heflin, are expecting a child in December. Heflin is currently OSU’s associate athletic director for development.
“We are thrilled and grateful for God’s perfect timing in our life,” Hoyt posted. “Not sure Buzz feels the same, but he will come around.”
Hoyt is entering her third season leading the Cowgirls, and she has built a name for herself outside of basketball.
Between her 1-year-old dog, Buzz, and her famous shoe collection, she has gained a large following across the nation.
The post about Hoyt’s pregnancy is one of the most popular on her social media platforms, with congratula-
tions from friends, family, players and alumni flooding the soon-to-be parents. On the court during her two years, Hoyt’s coaching record is 35-28.
sports.ed@ocolly.com
by Patti Varol
O’COLLY DISTRIBUTORS NEEDED
STUDENT POSITION EASY MONEY ALL SCHOOL YEAR
The O’Colly is now accepting applications for newspaper distributors who work early in the morning ( 5 a.m.-7a.m.) on Fridays delivering The O’Colly on campus. Must be dependable, early riser, self-starter and have dependable transportation. Must be able to work with little supervision. First work day will be Friday, Aug. 16. Prior newspaper delivery desirable but not essential. Send emails with resume to: lori.radford@okstate.edu
Cowboy Calendar
Friday, July 19
Family & graduate Student Housing Men’s Night
Axe Throwing @ 6 - 7 p.m.
Location: Stilly Axe Pit
https://reslife.okstate.edu/housing-options/neighborhoods/
Grillin’ & Chillin’ At The Varsity Shop @ 1- 3 p.m.
Location: baker & Gambill’s EM
https://curatorsofcraft.co/
July 29th Third Friday Downtown @ 4 - 8 p.m.
Location: Downtown Stillwater
https://downtownstillwater.org/calendar/ Karaoke Fridays @ 9 p.m.
Location: The Midnight Bar Murder in the Castle Murder Mystery for Adults @ 7 - 9 p.m.
Location: Stillwater Public Library
https://stillwaterok.gov/Calendar.aspx?EID=2044& month=7&year=2024&day=19&calType=0 OKC Cat Club @ 8 a.m.
Location: Payne County Expo Center
https://www.facebook.com/p/Oklahoma-City-CatClub-100066739150319/
Friday Flix @ 2 - 4 p.m.
Location: OSU Museum of Art https://museum.okstate.edu/
Scott Ryan & The Devilish Folk @ 10:30 p.m.
Location: Salty Bronc Saloon
https://www.facebook.com/events/4551773704 93067/?acontext=%7B%22event_action_histo ry%22%3A[%7B%22mechanism%22%3A%22 discovery_top_tab%22%2C%22surface%22% 3A%22bookmark%22%7D]%2C%22ref_notif_ type%22%3Anull%7D
Women’s Premier Soccer League Championship @ 6 p.m. & 8:15 p.m.
Location: Neal Patterson Soccer Stadium
Admission: $10 per day
https://www.ticketstorm.com/event/womenspremiersoccerleaguechampionship/nealpattersonstadiumosucampus/stillwater/29582/
Saturday, July 20
5K Run for the Saville Center @ 8 a.m.
Location: Boomer Lake Park
Admission: Child Ticket $15, Adult Ticket $30, Sponsor $500 or any donation amount
https://thesavillecenter.ejoinme.org/ROAR5K Aqua Zumba w/ OSU Department of Wellness @ 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.
Location: OSU Colvin Recreation Center https://rec.wellness.okstate.edu/
Luxurious
By Zachary David Levy
Daily Horoscope
Nancy Black Tribune Content Agency
Linda Black Horoscopes
Today’s Birthday (07/19/24). Determine your path and purpose this year. Learn from educational exploration with disciplined focus. Resolve professional challenges this summer, before exciting explorations light up the autumn. Winter family changes inspire domestic renovations, leading to springtime communication breakthroughs. Clarify desired results and options appear. To get the advantage, check the day’s rating: 10 is the easiest day, 0 the most challenging.
Aries (March 21-April 19) — Today is a 9 — Advance by expanding networks and connections over six weeks, with Mars in Gemini. You’re inspired into action. Energize education, storytelling and communication during this phase.
Taurus (April 20-May 20) — Today is a 9 — Action pays off. Extra creative effort pays. Wheel, deal and bargain over six weeks, with Mars in Gemini. Spend thoughtfully. Empower profitable ventures.
Gemini (May 21-June 20) — Today is a 9 — You’re especially strong and confident, with Mars in your sign for six weeks. You’re spurred into action. Follow your heart. Develop your own dreams.
Cancer (June 21-July 22) — Today is a 7 — Sort, clean and organize, with Mars in Gemini. Nurture yourself. Rest and enjoy productive privacy. Clean closets, garages and attics. Meditate for peace of mind.
Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) — Today is a 9 — Together, anything’s possible. Help your team get what it needs over six weeks, with Mars in Gemini. Join forces to advance a common dream.
Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) — Today is a 9 — Move forward boldly. Advance in your career over six weeks, with Mars in Gemini. Pour energy into your career for a rise in status.
Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) — Today is an 8 — Study the source material. Get out and explore, with Mars in Gemini over the next six weeks. Indulge your curiosity. Make exciting discoveries.
Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) — Today is a 9 — Collaborate on plans for the future, with Mars in Gemini for six weeks. Push to grow shared income during this phase. Energize lucrative possibilities.
Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) — Today is a 9 — Advance common interests. Share the load with your partner. Work as a well-oiled team, with Mars in Gemini. You both get more together.
Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) — Today is a 9 — Energize your work and health, with Mars in Gemini for six weeks. Physical action gets satisfying results. Balance work with exercise, healthy food and rest.
Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) — Today is an 8 — Take action for love. Passions spark into possibilities, with Mars in Gemini for a fun six-week phase. Romance flowers with attention. Follow your heart.
Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) — Today is a 9 — You’re motivated for domestic renovations and improvements over six weeks, with Mars in Gemini. Move things around. Clean deeply. Find solutions for better functionality.