Friday paper

Courtesy of OSU Athletics

Party on?

The Oklahoma State Cowboys left Boone Pickens Stadium partying last week and they may repeat their joyful exit in AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys and the Bears meet again for a rematch of an October battle with everything at stake. Two top 10 teams. A Big 12 Championship. A College Football Playoff appearance. Two teams with high hopes as the season begins to close. Only one can end with a party.

Page 2A Friday, December 3, 2021

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A new endeavor for Gundy, 17 years later new endeavor Saturday when OSU plays Baylor in the Big 12 Championship Game.

Gundy has won the Big 12 Championship, in 2011, but at that Ben Hutchens time there was not a Digital Editor conference championship game.

Oklahoma State At his Monday basketball, softball, press conference, Gundy baseball and soccer said he was thinking of coaches have all done what to say if the media something Mike Gundy asked him about playing has never done. in rematch.

Gundy, OSU’s “The old Ernie football coach, has never Banks deal, ‘Let’s play played an opponent twice two’ concept,” Gundy in the same season. said. “That is the only Most OSU coaches thing I had to say. I don’t have had a second know. It’s kind of weird, matchup with a team but we haven’t played due to the nature of their them in quite a while. sport of choice. But beThat helps.” cause of the way college football is structured, Gundy will be tackling a See Gundy on 3A Abby Cage

OSU defensive end Collin Oliver has amassed 9.5 sacks, the most out of any Power Five freshman.

Oliver’s ascension to freshman phenom Dean Ruhl Sports Editor The Matchbox cars were aligned perfectly.

Five represented an offensive line. Several more acted as wide receivers and a backfield. Eleven lined up in a defensive formation.

Sprinkled across a football field rug in an adolescent Collin Oliver’s bedroom, the current Oklahoma State edge rusher would re-enact a game. The cars substituting as players. From a young age, Oliver was infatuated with the game of football, the Matchbox cars serving as a bridge until he could grace a field.

“I know he will probably hate me for this,” Marshall Oliver, Collin’s father, said. “But that is what he would use, and he would play on the ground with that. But once he got a chance to play, it was like he just knew what he was doing out there.”

More than a decade later, Collin has become a freshman

standout, on OSU’s defense, amassing 9.5 sacks, ranking third in the Big 12 and being crowned the Big 12 Defensive Freshman of the Year. He has been a key cog on the Cowboy defense, a unit attempting to pilot OSU to its first conference championship in a decade, and first playoff berth in school history.

Inception Jewell Oliver, Collin’s mother, almost dropped dead when Marshall told her the news.

He had just enrolled Collin in football.

“I thought, ‘I don’t want my baby out there getting hit,’” Jewell said. “But Collin loved it from day one. He had a real, natural talent for the game.”

As a 6-year-old, Collin was no longer relegated to mimicking football games with cars. He could finally play the game. He started as a member of the PCO Panthers in Oklahoma City, playing four seasons with the team before the Oliver family relocated to the Edmond area.

Collin then played two seasons with the Edmond Bulldogs, including an undefeated season and state championship.

“That was the most memorable for me,” Marshall said. “He

got to experience what it was like to win a championship with a group of guys, what it meant to play together.”

Collin then entered middle school. He decided it was time to experiment with different positions. He wanted to be a wide receiver. After tinkering with the concept for some time, he transitioned to quarterback, but Marshall knew he belonged on the defensive side of the ball.

“Once you get hit enough, you’d rather be the one to start hitting people,” Marshall said. “I think that is when that switch to defense made sense to him.”

Marshall would know.

He, like his son, operated on the defensive side. He played at Southwestern Oklahoma State in the early 1990s as a defensive back. Prior to Collin starting high school at Edmond Santa Fe, he switched his focus to the defense.

That is when the phone calls starting coming in.

Ascension Santa Fe defensive coordinator Chris Rose remembers the exact play he knew Collin would play Division I football.

See Oliver on 6A

Abby Cage For the first time in his career, head coach Mike Gundy will face a team twice in the same season.

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3 players to watch

Big 12 Championship Game Dean Ruhl Sports Editor

Brendon Evers - DT Evers, an interior defensive lineman, will battle against a stout BU offensive line in the Big 12 Championship Game. In the past seven games, the Bears’ line has only allowed six sacks, compared to the Cowboys defense which averages four sacks a game.

How Evers and the rest of the defensive line performs will be instrumental in Abby Cage Saturday’s game.

Jalen Pitre - S Fresh off being named the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year, Pitre operates in BU’s STAR position, a combination of safety, linebacker and cornerback.

Pitre has accumulated 15.5 tackles for loss this season, forced, and recovered, three fumbles and has shown deft coverage abilities when he drops back into the secondAbby Cage ary.

Joe Michalski - C Michalski has started the past three games for the Cowboys at center in place of Danny Godlevske.

The Cowboys offensive line will deal with BU defensive lineman Siaki Ika, a 6-foot4, 350-pound lineman who was named Big 12 Defensive Newcomer of the Year. Courtesy of OSU Athletics sports.ed@ocolly.com

Number of the week:

1

It is the first time OSU will play in the Big 12 Championship game. It is also the first time for OSU to play an opponent twice in one season since OAMC played Central State Normal School (Central Oklahoma) twice in the 1908 season, it has happened eight total times, but OSU has never beaten a team twice in the same season.

Friday, December 3, 2021 Page 3A

Gundy...

Continued from 2A Although doubleheaders and weekend series are more familiar to the former Chicago Cub, Banks’ motto is what Gundy and the Cowboys have to adopt.

The No. 5 Cowboys defeated No. 9 Baylor 24-14 in Boone Pickens Stadium in early October. The game was OSU’s second conference game and the third for Baylor. The rematch will take place two months, two days and 272 miles south of the game in Stillwater.

Gundy said it is for the best there is a chunk of time in between the games, rather than a much trickier situation backto-back Bedlam games against Oklahoma would have presented.

Even though an injury to Baylor’s starting quarterback Gerry Bohanon forced the Bears to temporarily press redshirt freshman Blake Shapen into duty, Gundy does not think Baylor has changed much since the game in Stillwater.

“They’re really kind of who they are, and we’re kind of who we are,” Gundy said. “There hasn’t been much of a dramatic change. They played another quarterback, but their philosophies were pretty much the same.”

A particular defensive style Baylor plays stands out to Gundy.

“Defensively, they’re aggressive,” Gundy said. “You know, they play zone, they play man, they don’t sit back. (Jalen Pitre), you know, makes play after play after play.”

Gundy also mentioned Baylor has good schemes and blocks well. He said BU has skill at running back and wide receiver.

Baylor (10-2) is riding a three-game win streak into the championship; it fell to TCU and OSU on the road. The Bears non-conference schedule was bolstered by a win against No. 19 BYU. “And you’re also seeing a team that’s winning,” Gundy said.

“So, when (the Bears) win, they play harder. That’s where they’re at.

One thing Gundy does not know about the Bears is what

Abby Cage Baylor quarterback Gerry Bohanon suffered a right hamstring injury against Kansas State.

people all around college football are wondering: who will their quarterback be for the Big 12 Championship? Bohanon injured his right hamstring against Kansas State two weeks ago and has not played since. He dressed and warmed up in Baylor’s game against TTU last week and there is speculation he could be ready to return against the Cowboys.

“These are two equal teams,” Gundy said. “I mean, we’re on the same level. Field

position is going to be important, special teams is going to be important. We all know that effort and turnovers play a big role, and you go play. We need to control what we can control, which I think they will with the maturity that’s in that locker room.”

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Page 4A Friday, December 3, 2021

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Cowboys could finally get their shot in CFP Dean Ruhl Sports Editor ect.

Having an option

Abby Smith

OSU quarterback Spencer Sanders has not lost a fumble in 2021.

Cowboys making use of option runs down the stretch fense is stalling.

“He was really good on (the option). Did a good job cutting up and took off, made a good run, made a play. We needed a spark at that time,” coach Mike Gundy said. “Both offenses were struggling. We needed Chris Becker a spark.”

Assistant Sports Editor Sanders, who has struggled with turnovers and fumbles in his career, Spencer Sanders took the snap, has fumbled three times but not lost faked the handoff and began to run. a fumble in the 2021 season. His He shed a would-be tackler and coaches and teammates have noticed began to slice through the Oklahoma his improvement and maturity. defense. Sanders’ run did not end Sanders has rushed the ball 116 until he crossed the plane of the end for 510 yards and six touchdowns. zone for a 37-yard rushing touchdown The six rushing touchdowns is a for the Oklahoma State quarterback. career high. He is also averaging 4.4 The touchdown gave the Cowyards per carry. boys the lead against the Sooners, one “His composure has been good. they would not surrender, but it was His ability to listen and learn has the play that made the run important. been good. His relationship with The Cowboys have used differ- (Tim) Rattay has been good. Everyent strategies of option runs designed thing else he does is good,” Gundy for Sanders and to help the Cowboys said. “So when we protect him fairly offense gain momentum when the of- well and we rush the ball decently,

he plays better. That’s going to be fairly common for most quarterbacks in high school and college and in the pros. His protection (against Oklahoma) was average, but he still played pretty well.

“His gains of experience this year obviously have helped him,” Gundy said.

The Cowboys offense, which has been up-and-down for parts of the season, has been able to stay away from needing a final drive to win the game, for the most part. The only time the Cowboys were trailing in the final drive of the game was against Iowa State. The Cowboys ran seven plays before turning over the ball on a failed fourth down conversion.

This is important for the Cowboys because despite close games they have plays tucked away for a two-minute drill, if needed, that teams don’t have film of. sports.ed@ocolly.com

Gundy, Warren, Oliver bring in Big 12 awards

Oklahoma State was able to bring home multiple end of year awards for the Big 12.

awarded Big 12 Offensive Newcomer of the Year.

Warren is the ninth Cowboy to earn the honor.

Warren, who took over as the starting running against Boise State. He Chris Becker Assistant Sports Editor ran the ball 237 times for 1,134 yards and 11 touchdowns.

Oklahoma State Defensive end Colbrought home three Big lin Oliver earned Big 12 12 end of the year awards Defensive Freshman of and multiple All-Big 12 the Year after his breakselections. out season after taking OSU coach Mike over for an injured Trace Gundy was tabbed the Ford. Oliver is the seventh Chuck Neinas Coach of Cowboy to earn freshman the Year. Gundy led the honors. Oliver leads the Cowboys to an 11-1 regu- Cowboys with 8.5 sacks. lar season win and a BedTwo Cowboy offenlam victory. The Cowboys sive players were tabbed began the year unranked as First Team All-Big and now are ranked No. 12 selections. Spencer 5 in the College Football Sanders earned first team Playoff rankings. It is the quarterback and Josh Sills second time Gundy has was one of the offensive won the award. lineman who earned a OSU running spot on the honor list. back Jaylen Warren was Four Cowboy defenOffensive Newcomer of the Year: Jaylen Warren

Coach of the Year: Mike Gundy

Abby Cage

sive players were named First Team All-Big 12.

Defensive end Brock Martin, linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez, cornerback Jarrick Bernard-Converse and safety Kolby HarvellPeel earned the honor after helping propel the Cowboys to a top five defense in the country.

Tay Martin, wide receiver, and Brennan Presley, returner, were awarded second team honors in All-Big 12 awards. Collin Oliver and Christian Holmes were second team defense.

In total the 13 honorees is third-most in school history trailing only the 2010 and 2011 seasons. The Cowboys also had 14 honorable mentions in end of the year awards. sports.ed@ocolly.com Defensive Freshman of the Year: Collin Oliver

All Big 12 First Team Offense QB – Spencer Sanders, Oklahoma State RB – Breece Hall, Iowa State RB – Bijan Robinson, Texas FB – Jeremiah Hall, Oklahoma FB – Jared Rus, Iowa State WR – Xavier Hutchinson, Iowa State WR – Quentin Johnston, TCU WR – Xavier Worthy, Texas TE – Charlie Kolar, Iowa State OL – Connor Galvin, Baylor OL – Trevor Downing, Iowa State OL – Cooper Beebe, Kansas State OL – Josh Sills, Oklahoma State OL – Derek Kerstetter, Texas PK – Jonathan Garlbay, Texas Tech KR/PR – Trestan Ebner, Baylor KR/PR – Malik Knowles, Kansas State Defense DL – Will McDonald IV, Iowa State DL – Eyioma Uwazurike, Iowa State DL – Felix Anudike, Kansas State DL – Brock Martin, Oklahoma State DL – Dante Stills, West Virginia LB – Terrel Bernard, Baylor LB – Mike Rose, Iowa State LB – Malcolm Rodriguez, Oklahoma State DB – Jalen Pitre, Baylor DB – Russ Yeast, Kansas State DB – Jarrick Bernard-Converse, Oklahoma State DB – Kolby Harvell-Peel, Oklahoma State DB – Tre’Vius Hodges-Tomlinson, TCU P – Michael Turk, Oklahoma P – Cameron Dicker, Texas

Gary Barta does not like to proj-

Barta, the College Football Playoff chairman, is not fond of playing into hypothetical scenarios when he meets with the 12 other members of the committee. Instead, they rank off what the teams’ have done so far this season.

What does that mean for the Oklahoma State Cowboys?

“One of the things we learned is (Bedlam) was a playoff game, for all intents and purposes,” Barta said. “The winner goes on to the Big 12 Championship. So one of the things you learn is how a team or how teams can handle that kind of pressure.”

Barta said the Cowboys handled pressure well. The game backs it up.

OSU downed Oklahoma 37-33, rallying from a nine-point deficit created in a tumultuous third quarter. The Cowboys’ performance elevated them two spots to No. 5 in the CFP poll.

OSU passed one of its biggest roadblocks in the rankings, leapfrogging Notre Dame, despite the Fighting Irish routing Stanford 45-14. With one remaining game, the Cowboys are now a spot away from gracing the four-team playoff for the first time in school history.

The most likely scenarios for the Cowboys to gain a spot in the rankings would be a win over Baylor and No. 1 Georgia defeating No. 3 Alabama in the SEC Championship or No. 4 Cincinnati losing to No. 21 Houston in the AAC Championship.

If everything comes to fruition Saturday, OSU could finally reap the benefits from a system it was a catalyst for a decade prior.

Back in 2011, the Cowboys compiled an 11-1 record and were crowned outright conference champions, but remained absent from the BCS Championship Game. Instead, No. 1 Alabama defeated No. 2 LSU, grinding out a 21-0 national championship, while No. 3 OSU conquered No. 4 Stanford 41-38 in overtime of the Tostito’s Fiesta Bowl.

It was a primary indicator something needed to be changed, and three years later, the Cowboys helped dismantle the BCS system.

The opportunity is there for the Cowboys to capitalize.

Defensive end Brock Martin knows a selection into the CFP would be monumental for the 2021 Cowboys, but also would assist in setting up OSU in the future.

“When success like that happens, it kind of carries over momentum, recruits, everything else,” Martin said.

The 2011 Cowboys were still the peak in terms of recent OSU success, but Martin said looking back, ‘11 paved a path for the Cowboys in the years following. He is hoping a berth can help do the same for the 2021 team.

“I tell coach (Richetti) Jones and coach (Jamie) Blatnick all the time, I’m tired of hearing about the 2011 team,” Martin said. “I’m trying to be the team that replaces them.” sports.ed@ocolly.com

Abby Cage Oklahoma State surpassed Notre Dame in the latest iteration of the CFP rankings to enter the top five.

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Friday, December 3, 2021 Page 5A

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Who has the edge?

Abram Smith vs OSU run defense

Gabriel Trevino Staff Reporter Abby Cage

Baylor’s unknown starting quarterback

EDGE

Abram Smith ran for 1,366 yards and 12 touchdowns this season, including a 10-carry, 97-yard performance against OSU’s defense in Stillwater earlier this season. Although OSU’s defense is one of the best in the country, it has been vulnerable against the run. Texas’ Bijan Robinson’s rushed for 135 yards and two touchdowns and OU’s Kennedy Brooks’ 139-yard game were all against the Cowboys defense.

EDGE

Quarterback Gerry Bohanon suffered a right hamstring injury in Bears win over Kansas State. Bohanon was sidelined for Baylor’s final game of the season against Texas Tech, in which freshman quarterback Blake Shapen led the Bears to a narrow victory over Texas Tech. OSU will either face a true freshman in his second career start, or a quarterback coming back from an injury, who statistically performed poorly in their previous matchup this season.

Courtesy of Baylor Athletics

Spencer Sanders vs Baylor defense

EDGE

OSU quarterback Spencer Sanders played one of his worst statistical games of the 2021 season against Baylor. Sanders completed less than 55% of his passes, and threw three interceptions. Since that game in early October, Sanders has only thrown four interceptions in the seven games following.

Sanders’ playmaking in the air has improved, while his running ability continues to spark OSU’s offense.

Abby Cage

Special teams

EDGE

OSU receiver and primary returner Brennan Presley broke off a 100-yard kickoff return touchdown against OU, and often gives OSU good field position on kick and punt returns. Presley’s big returns makes OSU the second best team on kickoff returns in the country, averaging over 30 yards per return. Baylor’s special teams have only had to defend a kickoff return five times this season. If the ball lands in the arms of Presley, he might take advantage of Baylor’s lack of special team experience.

Alicia Young

OVerall

Abby Cage

EDGE

This game is closer than it seems. After OSU’s win over Baylor earlier this season, both teams have matured, featuring strong run games and good defense. However, with coach Mike Gundy’s 17 years of head coaching experience, and numerous seniors on the OSU roster, Baylor’s Dave Aranda holds only two seasons at the helm in Waco. With the Big 12 Championship on the line, the two evenly matched teams on the stat sheet will face off in a close football game.

Connor Galvin vs. Brock Martin

2-0

vs.

OSU leads the country in sacks, with 49 across the entire team, and defensive end Brock Martin accounts for six of them. Baylor’s offensive line has only allowed 12 sacks all season, left tackle Connor Galvin a big reason in that production. OSU caught Baylor quarterback Gerry Bohanon three times in their previous matchup.

OSU’s record following a win over Oklahoma under Coach Mike Gundy.

Starting lineup

Abram Smith vs. Israel Antwine

Baylor running back Abram Smith is having a statistically stellar season, rushing for 1,366 yards and 12 touchdowns. Defensive tackle Israel Antwine assists OSU’s rush defense, allowing less than three yards per carry. In their matchup earlier this season, Smith ran for 97 yards and a touchdown.

24.70

Defense

third down defense conversion percentage, first in the FBS.

Jeff Grimes vs Jim Knowles

The Broyles Award finalists will face off, just three days before the award winner will be announced. Baylor’s offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes is in his first season on the job, while OSU defensive coordinator Jim Knowles is behind OSU’s thirdranked defense in the country. When Baylor has the ball, and OSU tries to stop them, the two masterminds will clash.

2 16 9

67

The Cowboys hold an all-time record of 22-18 against the Bears.

72

80

This will be the first time in school history OSU has played in the Big 12 Championship Game, and second time for Baylor.

OSU linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez has recorded five or more tackles in 19 of the past 20 games.

95

66

Average yards per kickoff return.

0 89

70

74

1 87

3 7

Offense

The Cowboys rank second in the nation in career starts in the secondary with 178, behind only Indiana with 198.

QUOTABLES “Defensively, they’re aggressive. You know, they play zone, they play man, they don’t sit back. (BU safety Jalen Pitre) makes play after play after play.”

- OSU head coach Mike Gundy

“There is an advantage (to playing a team twice). You understand what they did in the first game, what they like to do, kind of how you played against them.”

- Baylor safety Jalen Pitre

20 98

28

OSU offensive coordinator Kasey Dunn was the Baylor special teams coordinator and wide receiver coach in 2007.

“(BU quarterback Gerry Bohanon) pulled a hamstring and from what we know it looks serious. I hope he is healthy. I hope we get a 100% healthy Baylor, you don’t like winning championships on a team that is not 100%.”

- OSU defensive end Brock Martin

25

24

DID YOU KNOW?

“I think you watch the tape, it pops off, just the energy and edge (OSU) has.”

- Baylor head coach Dave Aranda

30

31

Offense 67 72 66 70 74 1 80 28 3 7 87

LT - Cole Birmingham LG - Josh Sills C - Joe Michalski RG - Hunter Woodard RT - Preston Wilson WR - Tay Martin WR - Brennan Presley WR - Blaine Green QB - Spencer Sanders RB - Jaylen Warren CW - Logan Carter

9 98 95 89 20 16 24 2 31 25 0

Defense DE - Brock Martin DT - Brendon Evers DT - Israel Antwine DE - Tyler Lacy LB - Malcolm Rodriguez LB - Devin Harper CB - Jarrick Bernard-Converse S - Tanner McCalister S - Kolby Harvell-Peel S - Jason Taylor II CB - Christian Holmes

1 Number of games Baylor quarterback Blake Shapen has started in his career.

36 Rushes Jaylen Warren had against Baylor earlier this season

99 Total tackles for loss across entire OSU defense (T-1st in FBS)

Page 6A Friday, December 3, 2021

Oliver...

Continued from 2A During Collin’s sophomore season, the Wolves had an early season game against Edmond North. Collin broke free off the edge, was able to get his body turned, maintain his leverage and speed, and sacked the North quarterback.

“I took a shot of that clip and I emailed it to coach (Greg) Richmond and said ‘He is the next guy you want to be offering at Edmond Santa Fe,’” Rose said. “Just the natural ability to play.”

After splitting time between the offense and defense his freshman year, Collin transitioned exclusively to the defensive side his sophomore season.

His recruitment accelerated.

Collin is not the most recent Santa Fe defensive player to arrive at OSU. Defensive end Trace Ford and linebacker Calvin Bundage played for the Wolves prior to committing to the Cowboys. Santa Fe has turned into a pipeline for the school, Collin being the latest success story.

Richmond eventually did offer Collin, but so did 19 other Power Five schools. Marshall, who went through the process a few decades prior, helped guide Collin through the “I told him it would get crazy after the first offer,” Marshall said. “He was always on the phone, text messages, coaches reaching out, coaches giving me a call.”

Nights after Friday games were spent on the road for Collin to take official visits to schools. The phone never seemed to stop ringing. The offers continued to accumulate. Georgia. Missouri. Tennessee. Kansas State. Arkansas. Nebraska.

Collin had options. But he wanted somewhere comfortable. Somewhere he could grow. Despite a crowded defensive line group, he landed on Oklahoma State. Ford and Bundage playing a crucial role in his decision.

“Collin went with the mindset of ‘I’m going to work hard, I’m going to do my best, and learn,’” Rose said. “He didn’t go in with this idea of ‘I’m going to start from day one’ he went in with an idea of growth.”

Adaptation Rose ripped into Collin along the Santa Fe sideline.

He was not executing the game plan. This was not the game to be doing that. The Wolves were battling against Union (Tulsa) High School in the Class 6A-I semifinals, a berth to the state championship on the line.

A loss would make this Collin’s final high school game. As Rose communicated with Collin prior to the defense’s next series, Collin had a simple response.

“I’ve got you coach,” Collin said.

It was not a lie. On the ensuing drive, Oliver pulled down the Union quarterback for a sack on third down, protecting the Santa Fe lead.

“He went out and executed and did what he knew he needed to do,” Rose said. “That is always one of my favorite things about Collin.”

The Wolves advanced to the state championship with a 21-14 win, finishing as runner-up after losing the following weekend to Jenks.

His third down sack exemplifies Collin’s innate ability to learn quickly and adapt to situations. He has always been a smart kid, his coaches and parents will tell you that. He is teachable, he likes practice, he wants to soak up information.

Collin never had to study for tests in school. He would lie to his mother and say he spent time studying, but he didn’t. Regardless, he would ace the test.

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After being forced to the ground

by OU offensive tackle Anton Harrison, Collin maneuvered on the turf, adamant to bring Williams to the same eye level Oliver was at.

He did just that. He wrapped up Williams’ feet, crashing down to the turf, securing his ninth sack of the season.

It wasn’t until Williams fell that Oliver rose. Springing to his feet, he strolled toward midfield of Boone Pickens Stadium in Stillwater, celebrating his accomplishment. He had secured OSU its first Bedlam win since 2014.

“That sums up Collin,” White said. “Total effort doing anything to make a play, crawling on all fours to try and make it to the quarterback.”

Moments later, Oliver would hit the turf again, this time via a hefty push from behind OSU defensive end Brock Martin in celebration. The two embraced, as the Cowboy defense forced a turnover on downs with eight seconds remaining in the game.

“I shoved him to the ground, and probably said some explicit (language),” Martin said.

Martin has been a vocal supporter of Collin this season. Before he had even played a snap, Martin said Collin would be an All-American by the end of his career.

He has lived up to that billing in his first season. He has accumulated multiple conference awards, including being named to the All-Big 12 Second Team Defense, and has primed himself to possibly earn a Freshman All-American nod.

Dedication Third downs are important for Collin’s parents.

To them, it means Collin is coming into the game.

Courtesy of Joshua Cleary “It is so exciting, just that feeling Collin Oliver accumulated 20 collegiate offers while playing at Edmond Santa Fe. like ‘Oh my gosh are you serious?’”

According to Rose, Collin’s com- to stay and finish their senior year and Marshall said.

Marshall and Jewell have been to bination of mental smarts and football be with their friends.” every home game for the Cowboys this Collin was one of 12 freshmen talent is rare. season. They often meet up with Rose “A lot of times you’ve got a young who early enrolled in January. He man that has athletic ability but maybe spent his days in the weight room with and his wife, who always remembers to send Collin a good luck text before each doesn’t understand the whole scheme of strength coach Rob Glass, adding 20 football itself,” Rose said. “Or you have pounds in the offseason. He adjusted to game.

For Rose, seeing a pupil succeed the college life. He participated in the a guy that is analytical, and he makes in an environment they love is inspirspring practices and spring game. plays because he knows where to be. ing.

Marshall is a proud father watching After the first spring practice, Collin has both.” his son perform. Jewell gets emotional.

Rose received a call from Richmond.

That quick adaptation has been “My girls are there and they “You lied to me,” Richmond said. needed for Oliver this season. With always say, ‘Mom are you crying?’”

“How did I lie to you?” Rose said.

Ford, and defensive end Tyren Irby both Jewell said.

“Collin is better than you said he injured, Oliver quickly found himself Rose and White still communicate was,” Richmond said. second on the depth chart. He needed Like he had done the previous 18 with Collin, even with him no longer at to master the playbook, and elevate his years of his life, whether in class or on Santa Fe. They talk football, life and skills. class, building upon relationships made the football field, Collin had adapted “I thought he might redshirt this over several years. quickly, learned the system in a few year,” Marshall said. “I didn’t know When talking about Collin’s fumonths and blossomed before most how well he might pick up things, but ture, Rose became emotional. freshmen even stepped foot on campus. he proved me wrong in that aspect “Provided he stays injury-free, “By the time the season came he because he went up there, got in the he will have an opportunity to make a weight room and he must have learned had put on a bunch of weight and understood the defense, understood where living one of these days in the NFL,” the defense because they put him out he fit and how to make plays,” Santa Fe Rose said. “His ceiling from a personal there.” standpoint, is that he is going to be a head coach Kyle White said.

Maturation great father and a great husband.”

His early enrollment would pay Collin packed his belongings into off come August. the back of his car.

Domination He had just completed the fall Collin crawled like a military semester of his senior year at Santa Fe. He had accumulated all his credits. His recruit under barbed wire toward Oklasports.ed@ocolly.com homa quarterback Caleb Williams. high school career was finished.

After turning 18 a few months before, Collin early enrolled at OSU to get a jump start on his collegiate football career. He sacrificed his senior year of track and field, a sport he had gone to the state track meet for the long jump and high jump the previous three years.

He was willing to miss the senior prom.

“It is extremely hard,” Rose said.

“You’re walking away from everything you know.”

To Marshall, Collin willing to make the sacrifice showed how serious he was about football. He did not mind missing track, it saved him from potentially getting injured. He was not afraid to leave his friends behind. It spoke to his maturity.

“Other kids might not want to do Abby Cage that,” Marshall said. “They might want Collin Oliver enrolled early at OSU, arriving on campus in January.

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Friday, December 3, 2021 Page 7A

sports

Anderson finding confidence after shaky start to season

frustrations, however careless play style in the never doubted himself. closing minutes, however “I stayed in the defended the team saying gym,” Anderson said. “I they need to be risky never worried. I trusted sometimes. my work and shots Boynton said he started falling. I tried to was proud of Anderson’s Gabriel Trevino affect the game in other scoring output, however Staff Reporter ways, playing defense repeated the fact OSU and making plays for my lost the game.

Avery Anderson’s team.”

“He scored, he is 3-point shot flew in the Although Andera scorer,” Boynton said. air and dropped straight son recorded his season “He had six turnovers through the rim, barely high in points, he did so though. I am curious how grazing the net as the ball sloppily, a trend carmany of his turnovers went through the basket. ried by OSU as a whole lead to points. When Anderson’s swish down the stretch. OSU you do that, you offset was shot from the “U” fell apart in the last three some of your scoring. He of the OSU center court minutes of the game, looked confident trying logo at Gallagher-Iba due to a combination of to score, but there is a Arena in Stillwater. An- numerous turnovers and balance.” derson, struggled while scoring zero points late starting all seven of in the game. Anderson Oklahoma State’s games said he is aware of the sports.ed@ocolly.com so far. In the eighth game of the season, a 60-51 loss to Wichita State, Anderson found his rhythm, scoring 17 points, shooting 50% from three.

The game started off right for Anderson, catching a pass from guard Bryce Thompson in the corner behind the arc, draining the first 3-point shot of the game.

The early points are what Anderson said gave him the confidence for the remainder of the game.

Anderson started the 2021-22 season quiet, averaging eight points per game on 38% shooting in the first seven games. Expectations from fans were set high for Anderson, as he was coming off his 2020-21 season where he found the bottom of the rim on 48% of his shots Braden King from the field and averPrior to the Wichita State game, OSU guard Avery Anderson was aged 12 points per game. averaging eight points a game, a four-point differential from his 2020Anderson said there were 21 season.

Courtesy of OSU Athletics OSU wrestler Kaden Gfeller (above) and teammate Dusty Hone would hold Bible studies together.

Gfeller finding himself through religion Daniel Allen Staff Reporter

NCAA Tournament, Gfeller reflected on how he could not only improve his wrestling, but as an Kaden Gfeller individual, also. needed to make a change “Going into NCAA, in his life.

I sort of felt a message In the midst of a from God,” Gfeller said.

30-7 freshman campaign “I felt the urge to quit my with a 141-pound Big bad habits. It didn’t hit me 12 title, Gfeller was not until after. I was looking living his life the way he for answers. I was really envisioned he should be. mad, and I was angry of “I was winning,” course. It was like a wake Gfeller said. “So, off the up call, and telling me, top of my head I thought ‘You can’t be doing these I could get away with things, you need to clean it. You know, I thought up your life.’”

I could get away with It started with talkdrinking, partying, like ing to teammates and you know, things that you attending church on a can’t be doing if you want consistent basis. Gfeller to be a successful wressaid he and teammate, tler.”

Dusty Hone, would read Gfeller had been the Bible together every raised as “a child of night and discuss how God,” for his entire life. they planned to apply the However, he never went material to their daily to church or practiced lives. any type of worship on In addition, Gfeller a consistent basis. After now works at Life Church an 0-2 finish in the 2019 as an usher for their

Sunday service. Gfeller describes the opportunities to work with those who have the same beliefs as him as an opportunity to grow and build on his faith Since this transition into a life of faith, Gfeller is not only winning on the mat, but also feels healthier mentally and physically. He is pleased with his life outside of wrestling, which has led to less stress and a healthier lifestyle.

“It’s been about building the relationship (with God) and that’s what I’ve been focused on the last two years,” Gfeller said. “Wrestling is not everything, and I know that. But with the time I have left here I’m going to give it everything I got, and I really think I can accomplish great things.” sports.ed@ocolly.com

Cowgirls preparing for favorable close to nonconference schedule

Davis Cordova Staff Reporter A bleak offense paired with a losing rebound battle.

Those two struggle points that have haunted the Oklahoma State women’s basketball team reared their head in Las Vegas.

A rough stretch of games over Thanksgiving weekend for the Cowgirls brought their record to 3-3. Losses to Green Bay and Tennessee set the team back after they went on a three-game win streak.

“We found out that we needed to change some things offensively and we didn’t do a good job of rebounding.” coach Jim Littell said. “We’re getting some things in offensively that are a

little more suited for our team.”

But, the Cowgirls have the rest of their nonconference schedule that seems favorable for the Cowgirls to build back confidence and momentum going into the Big 12 schedule.

A battle at Auburn is next on the schedule as part of the SEC/Big 12 Challenge. Auburn has a ranked road win against Georgia Tech and has a record of 3-1 at home.

The two schools have never played each other, but the Lady Tigers will challenge the Cowgirls’ identity as they rebound the ball well and average 65 points per game while the Cowgirls give up 55 points per game.

After the road game, a four-game home stretch begins with a date against Southern, who has not won a game this season. Last season, Southern visited Gallagher-Iba Arena and lost 68-34.

A feisty UT Arling-

ton squad visits Stillwater and their record stands at 4-2 with a game versus a ranked opponent at the time of publication.

UT Arlington, up to this point, has a better ranking in FPI at 35th compared to OSU’s 36th.

Guard N’Yah Boyd will get to play her former school as North Texas takes a visit to GIA. With a 4-2 record, the Mean Green have lost two games to teams that are on OSU’s schedule, UT Arlington and Missouri State, who the Cowgirls beat last month.

Tulsa is the toughest-looking remaining team on the non-conference schedule with a 6-0 record. Tulsa is 81st in RPI, but have a strength of schedule rank of 271 and their average opponents RPI rank is 208.

Tulsa defeated OSU last season and is a wellcoached team. Littell is 1-1 versus Tulsa in his career. sports.ed@ocolly.com

OSU gaurd N’Yah Boyd (above) will face her former team, North Texas, Dec. 21.

NEXT FIVE GAMES

12-5 @ Auburn (4-3) Last Meeting: N/A 12-15 vs. Southern (0-4) Last Meeting: 2020 - W, 68-34 12-17 vs. UT Arlington (4-2) Last Meeting: 2019 - W, 60-47

Noah Weber

12-21 vs. North Texas (4-2) Last Meeting: 2020 - W, 82-68 12-28 vs. Tulsa (6-0) Last Meeting: 2020 - L, 6962

Monday - Wednesday: 10:00am - 10:00pm Thursday - Saturday: 10:00am - 11:00pm

128 N Main St. Stillwater, OK 74075 Great selection, prices, & staff!

405.372.5080

Page 8A Friday, December 3, 2021

O’Colly

sports

Picking winners (and losers) Record: 51-27 Last week: 3-3 Spread: 40-38 Last week: 2-4

Dean Ruhl Record: 41-37 Last week: 3-3 Spread: 40-38 Last week: 1-5

Sudeep Tumma Ben Hutchens Sam Hutchens Record: 48-30 Last week: 3-3

Record: 48-30 Last week: 5-1

Record: 47-31 Last week: 3-3

Spread: 37-41 Last week: 1-5

Spread: 41-37 Last week: 6-0

Spread: 35-43 Last week: 2-4

OSU vs BAY OSU - 5.5

OSU 34-20

OSU 37-20

OSU 27-14

OSU 28-19

OSU 21-20

UGA vs BAMA UGA - 6.5

UGA 24-16

UGA 21-7

UGA 23-20

BAMA 27-23

BAMA 34-31

MICH vs IOWA MICH -10.5

MICH 27-10

MICH 31-10

MICH 33-13

MICH 34-20

IOWA 27-26

PITT vs WF PITT - 3.5

PITT 34-30

PITT 34-30

WF 40-30

PITT 30-23

WF 28-24

HOU vs CINCY CINCY - 10.5

CINCY 35-42

HOU 35-31

CINCY 33-30

HOU 30-28

CINCY 41-20

USC vs CAL CAL - 4.5

USC 21-20

USC 28-18

USC 30-27

USC 30-20

CAL 28-24

Sudeep Tumma

This scenario puts a committee in a bind. Georgia, Michigan and Alabama would have the top-three spots locked down (considering where they are now). So it comes down to OSU’s one loss vs. Cincinnati’s 49th-ranked strength of schedule. It’s a true conundrum because the Bearcats are still undefeated and have a bonafide win against No. 6 Notre Dame. OSU obviously has the look of the CFP contender, but given Cincinnati’s reputation with Luke Fickell and how Cincinnati performed in 2020 — which does weigh in with the eye test — I believe that’s enough for the No. 4 slot.

If OSU, Alabama, Michigan and Cincinnati win, does OSU make the College Football Playoff?

Chris Becker The Cowboys need everything to work in their favor Saturday and this would be the worst case scenario except for OSU losing. Georgia is all but locked in to a CFP spot no matter the outcome of the SEC Championship.

If the other three top four teams win, OSU still could squeeze in over Cincinnati based on resumes. OSU would have beaten two top-10 teams back-toback weeks, which would make it hard to overlook for a spot. If this is the outcome of this weekend’s games OSU could still find itself in the playoff and its resume speaks for itself.

Point / Counterpoint

Chris Becker

Lil partner Friday, December 3, 2021

How a 4-year-old became an OSU celebrity

Abby Cage

Warren Clay has been well versed in all things Oklahoma State before his first gameday appearence.

Kylie Hammack Staff Reporter

became an OSU sensation at this year’s centennial Homecoming football game against the University of Kansas. Warren stepped out onto the field with Les Oklahoma State has its newest Thomas, OSU Gameday host and ‘hyhype man, and his name is Warren peman,’ at Boone Pickens Stadium durClay. ing a timeout in a pair of black chaps Four-year-old Warren Clay, com- and cowboy hat. He then led the crowd monly known as “Warren the Cowboy,” in one of OSU’s most famous cheers.

Framing each letter with his arms and throwing up his hands to form two pistols firing, Warren screamed “O-S-U Cowboys.”

Boone Pickens’ sea of orange instantly erupted in applause and shouts of support for Warren, everyone in the stands rallied behind the young cowboy.

Warren has gained fame among OSU

A day in the life of B.B. (aka Baxter)

Therapeutic Horsemanship Center. The ranch, which has served Stillwater for over 20 years, has a partnership with the College of Education and Family Services for their DevelEllen Slater opmental Disability class.

Lifestyle Editor Around 130 new OSU students volunteer with them Like when celebrities each semester. use stage names to foster “Baxter is like a real a more typical lifestyle, life cartoon character,” the miniature horse, who Royston said. His personCowboy fans have grown ality is known to the staff to love as Bullet’s sidekick, and described as funnier B.B. goes by Baxter on a than any horse they know. normal day.

His normal routine Believe it or not, the is filled with a crossover 8-year-old therapy horse of his celebrity horse life leads a life outside of and the life of a normal rallying the crowd from therapy horse. the field of Boone Pickens Here is a look for Stadium.

Baxter’s daily routine on a Rachel Royston is “normal” day when is not the executive director of

by Pistol Pete’s side.

Turning Point Ranch, Baxter’s stomping grounds.

The ranch is a Premier Accredited International See B.B. on 4B

fans in the weeks since OSU Football’s Homecoming performance.

Through all the excitement of the weeks since the Homecoming game, Warren has been accompanied by his parents, Rob and Brittany Clay, who have been supportive of Warren’s new role from the beginning.

See Partner on 4B

Inside...

Fanfare...................................................................3B OSU turns on it’s orange lights to kick off the holiday season.

Elf.........................................................................5B OSU faculty is a part of Stillwater community theatre.

Birthday.................................................................3B Tom Denker will be turning 90 years old on Sunday.

Testing.....................................................................6B Courtesy of Turning Point Ranch Baxter enjoys taking an occasional swim in the lake.

Oklahoma State students prepare for finals week.

Page 2B Friday, December 3, 2021

O’Colly

Page 2

No Bake Oatmeal Energy Balls With finals week approaching, what better recipe than a quick study snack. Bonus: it is dorm friendly because it does not require an oven!

concerts coming up this week:

Ingredients •1/4 to 1/3 c crushed honey roasted nuts. Regular crushed nuts may be substituted.

•2 cup gluten-free rolled oats (we use Bob’s Red Mill)- If you use quick cooking oats, you will need more.

•1/3 cup chocolate chips (we use Enjoy Life mini chocolate chips) •1/3 c dried cranberries •1 tsp cinnamon •1/2 cup natural no-stir nut butter or sunflower seed butter (adjust depending on the brand of nut butter you use) •1 tsp vanilla extract •1/3 c to 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup (see notes) •optional 2 tbsp GF flour or protein powder if you need the batter less sticky.

Sunday- ZZ Tops, River Sprit Event Center, Tulsa Saturday- Giovannie & The Hired GunsTumbelweed Dance Hall, Sillwater

Instructions 1. Crush your glazed nuts by hand or in a blender, set aside. You may also use packaged chopped nuts.

2. In a large mixing bowl, add the rolled oats, chocolate chips, dried cranberries, nuts, and cinnamon. Mix to combine.

3. Next, add the creamy nut butter and vanilla. Stir again.

4.Gradually add the honey (or maple syrup), mixing with a spoon between pours. Adjust the amount of honey you use depending batter’s thickness.

5.If batter is too sticky, add a few tbsp of coconut flour or protein powder. Mix with spoon.

6.Before rolling, chill the batter in the fridge for 20 minutes. That way, it’s easier to roll later.

7.Roll into 1-1.5 inch balls and place on a cookie tray or plastic ware with parchment paper underneath.

8.Let them freeze for 20-30 minutes then transfer into a Ziploc bag.

Keep in fridge or freezer for up to 6 weeks.

Photo of the week by Braden King

Twitter poll

OSU lit up the campus with holiday decorations after returning from the break.

Editorial board

Reporters/photographers

News editor Anna Pope news.ed@ocolly.com

Assistant sports editor Chris Becker sports.ed@ocolly.com

Lifestyle editor Ellen Slater entertainment.ed@ocolly.com

Design editor Karisa Sheely design.ed@ocolly.com

Sports editor Dean Ruhl sports.ed@ocolly.com

Photo editor Abby Cage photo.ed@ocolly.com

Sports reporters: Adam Engel Sam Hutchens Sudeep Tumma Connor Burgan Calif Poncy Ashton Slaughter Daniel Allen Gabriel Trevino Jarron Davis

Adviser John Helsley john.helsley@okstate.edu

Digital editor Ben Hutchens digital@ocolly.com

News reporters: Alli Putman Jaxon Malaby

Willistean Bennett Mak Vandruff Rachel Williamson Teyte Holcomb Jacob Sellers Stephen Stumpf Taeyln Brown Kylie Hammack Lifestyle writers: Bryanna Nickel Bailey Sisk Lydia Watkins Amelia Jauregui Jaden Betesda

Photographers: Jaiden Daughty Braden King Branson Evans Habbie Colen Zachary Hunter Abby Smith Caelyn Cox Alicia Young Ali Isabell Alex Hernandez

Newsroom

108 Paul Miller Stillwater, OK 74078 (405)-744-6365

HIMALAYAN GROCERY STORE

O’Colly

News/Lifestyle

Friday, December 3, 2021 Page 3B

OSU students rush to Big 12 Championship

Courtesy of Sally Clickner

Drivetime with Tom Denker Tom Denker and 30 members of his family will celebrate on Saturday regardless of the football game outcome.

Sally Clickner, Denker’s daughter said. “You’d see him at the top of the stadium on the west side and we’d watch the game because he wants to see Anna Pope everything going on and off the field.”

News Editor Clickner, often drives him to the games.

Three of Tom Den- On the road, her dad tells ker’s sons, nine grandkids stories of his time at OSU and two great grandkids ranging from campus life have attended Oklahoma activities to how a milk State. man helped save his life Denker listened to from carbon monoxide OSU games, then known poisoning in what was as Oklahoma A&M, in then known as Veterans the 1940s, and eventually Village. decided to enroll in the She said the memouniversity. He graduated ries made during the in 1953 and has kept up drivetime with her dad with OSU activities and is what she has grown to sports, especially football. treasure most.

“My dad likes to sit “Just the stories like at the top of the stadium,” that, that he’s been telling

me ever since he and I have been driving back and forth to the games,” Clinker said.

This year, he will turn 90 years old on Sunday and celebrate with about 30 family members at the Big 12 game in Arlington, Texas.

“To me the best thing about it (going to the game) is getting everybody at the game with him,” Clickner said.

Clickner did not attend OSU because she received a scholarship to play college basketball at Phillips University. She said while growing up, her dad’s love of activity and sports influenced her.

“Every night before of after supper we’d (the whole family) be outside

playing,” Clickner said.

This not only helped build her skills, she said it was also just fun.

One of Clickner’s brothers began planning for their father’s birthday two weeks ago. With the exception of one sibling who has tested positive for COVID-19, five of her brothers and sisters will be celebrating Denker’s birthday at the game.

Clickner said her dad is looking forward to his birthday.

“He’s called me several times asking ‘Now, what is the plan?’” Clickner said.

Lit up orange news.ed@ocolly.com

Ellen Slater Lifestyle Editor As some students were tucked away in Edmon Low Library studying for dead week, right outside was toiled with performers, Santa and a hot chocolate bar for the kickoff of the Holiday season on Library Lawn.

The Fanfare of Lights was held on Tuesday night in order to celebrate turning on the Library Lawn light display.

Oklahoma State president Dr. Kayse Shrum, who will be celebrating her first holiday season in office, and First Cowboy Darren Shrum counted down the lights turning.

They were joined alongside Santa and Mrs. Claus, who were of course wearing their traditional uniforms in the festive shade of America’s brightest orange.

“Since they know the right colors to wear for the holiday season we know that they are the real Santa and Mrs. Claus,” Shrum said.

The lights are bright orange and will remain lit throughout the holiday season.

This is the Shrum’s first holiday season in office.

The Stillwater Junior High choir sang carols to start off the event. They were followed by the OSU trumpet studio who performed popular festive songs for the crowd of students and community members.

Doug Hallenbeck, the vice president of student affairs, acted as the emcee of the event, introducing all of the special guests throughout the night.

The Prairie Arts Center provided arts and crafts for the community after the lighting, which was one of the many festive events

Branson Evans

in the Student Union. The free gift-wrapping in the Student Union store and free pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus were other festive features of the night to celebrate the kick-off of the season on campus.

The annual event was put on by the Student Union Activities Board, OSU Student Art Alliance and the Prairie Arts Center after it was cancelled in 2020 due to COVID-19.

entertainment.ed@ocolly.com

Alicia Young Oklahoma State fans cheer on the Cowboys before the start of the Bedlam football game.

Stephen Stumpf can’t miss since it’s Staff Reporter OSU’s first trip since

Will West has never attended an Oklahoma State game outside of Stillwater.

West, a senior civil engineering major, will be one of many fans traveling to OSU’s Big 12 Championship Game in Arlington, TX. “I bought my mom tickets to go with me for Christmas,” West said.

After defeating Oklahoma 37-33, claiming Oklahoma State’s first win in the Bedlam football game since 2014, OSU will face-off against Baylor for the Big 12 Championship on Saturday.

This will mark OSU’s first appearance in the Big 12 Championship Game. However, the championship is not the only thing on the line on Saturday. OSU could punch a ticket to its first College Football Playoff (CFP) appearance.

Because it is the championship, OSU students and alumni are flocking out to Arlington. Kyle Kvancz, an OSU alumnus with a degree in business management and minor in marketing, is traveling to the game with his best friend.

“It’s a game you

the championship game returned (in 2017),” Kvancz said.

Although the game is in Texas, Kirsten Hollansworth, a graduate agricultural communications student, said she is hoping to witness a sea of orange in the stands.

“Can’t wait to see how everything unfolds and hopefully we will come out with the W(win), the trophy and some other later games to help our seeding position for the CFP,” Hollansworth said.

Hollansworth is from a smaller high school that did have a football team, she said experiencing OSU fan’s energy and excitement was fantastic and hopes this game will be even better.

“I’m really looking forward to supporting the team during this historic game,” Hollansworth said. “I’m so proud to be a student at OSU because OSU athletics as a whole perseveres against all odds.”

news.ed@ocolly.com

Page 4B Friday, December 3, 2021

O’Colly

News

Uncle Boo

Warren Clay was prepared to be on the microphone during the Homecoming football game.

Abby Cage

Partner...

Continued from 1B

“It was a historic day for the school with the centennial and all of that, so I thought it was awesome,” Rob explained of the Clays’ reaction to Warren being invited to hype up the Homecoming crowd.

Although Rob is originally from North Carolina, the Clay family – including Warren – are longtime OSU fans and have followed OSU Football for years. However, the family had a new reason to support OSU when one of Warren’s older brothers, Collin Clay, began playing for OSU Football last year.

“Of course, you know, with having a son playing now as well, it has made it even sweeter,” Rob said.

Since the Clay family are longstanding OSU fans, Warren was well versed in all things OSU even before his appearance at the Homecoming game. Looking back on his experience leading the chant in front of thousands of people, Warren has a top moment from his first appearance on the field.

“He has said repeatedly that his favorite part of the game was meeting

Les Thomas Sr. has known Warren Clay all his life.

Pistol Pete,” Brittany said.

Warren’s newfound stardom has made him a celebrity at school, secured him a meet and greet at Chris’s University Store, and even landed him clothing with his picture printed on it.

“Everywhere we are, everyone is recognizing Warren,” Rob said.

“The meet and greet was awesome. There were people coming up to talk to him, take pictures with him. Just recognizing him being ‘Warren the Cowboy.”

Warren has also become popular on social media platforms like Instagram where

Abby Cage

Rob and Brittany run the @warrenthecowboy account. Here, Warren’s parents post updates about the young star’s adventures as “Warren the Cowboy” and cheer on OSU. Including his most recent appearance at the Bedlam football game.

The Clays were excited to attend the Bedlam game with Warren and are going to continue to support OSU in whatever way they can.

“Whatever happens next, whatever becomes of what (Warren) is doing, we are just excited and ready to embrace it,” Rob said. news.ed@ocolly.com

games he tries to encourage the Pistol Pete Partners.

“When I walk on the field, every kid that I’m with I tell them to scream it,” Thomas said. “And the reason why I tell them to scream it is because Anna Pope they’ll meet me halfway. Because it’s a lot of pressure on you when you’ve News Editor got a camera watching and a microphone there. So, a lot of times the kids Rob Clay would send Les clam up or get nervous...”

Thomas Sr. videos of his son, Warren “Well I said that to Warren and Clay, doing Oklahoma State cheers in he took it literally,” Thomas said. the middle of restaurants.

Thomas said he knew Warren Before Warren became Warren was going to yell the cheer at OSU’s the Cowboy, Thomas, the OSU Game- Homecoming game because he saw day Host not only knew the 4-year-old Warren do it before the game. Howbut also was at the hospital when he ever, Warren brought more energy. was born. While Thomas is known for “He had never screamed it that his role as the gameday host or “hype loud,” Thomas said “Now again, I man,” Warren knows him by another don’t want to take away from before name. that moment. He was very loud and “He calls me Uncle Boo,” exuberant, he had a lot of energy.”

Thomas said.

Part of Thomas’ job is to spread Around 18 years ago, Thomas joy to people off the microphone in all and Rob pledged in a fraternity settings. He gets asked to send birthtogether at Langston University. This day wishes and even cheer up people sparked a friendship and eventually, a in hospitals. For Thomas, this is his close relationship with Rob’s family. favorite part of his job.

Thomas said he grateful the But adding Warren into the world gets to see Warren and the opequation made the experience on the portunities he now has. microphone that much sweeter.

“Warren was already great - he “When Warren came on and he was already that kid, just the world did that, it was a proud moment for had not been introduced to him,” me, as an uncle it was a proud moThomas said. “Being able to say I ment for me as a friend of the family,” played a role in introducing Warren Thomas said. “I knew Warren, if he to the world is something I will never had the opportunity, he was going to forget.” kill it.”

Thomas said before football news.ed@ocolly.com

Les Thomas Sr. was at the hospital when Warren Clay was born.

Abby Cage

B.B. ...

Continued from 1B

Baxter riding in the back of the car, his favorite way to be transported.

Courtesy of Turning Point Ranch Baxter is fed one meal a day in the morning.

Courtesy of Turning Point Ranch

Courtesy of Turning Point Ranch Baxter gets along well with his horse companions.

Morning: Baxter usually starts his day around 6:30 a.m. He and his horse companions, including retired award winning horses from his Bedlam rivals university named Larry, get breakfast in the morning.

Royston said Baxter, “Gets hangry,” when he hs not fed in the morning. The staffers pick up his bowl and throw it at him as he taunts the caretaker by throwing his bowl around.

Afternoon: Baxter often spends his afternoons at Wings of Hope where he acts as a therapy animal. The patients there walk him like a dog, play games with him and work on memory cognition.

“The patient put salads together in the pasture for him to eat,” Royston said. “Baxter’s least favorite part of the afternoon is when the typical-sized horses get another feeding, since he can only eat once. He gets really jealous,” Royson said.

Baxter has multiple volunteering gigs. At the Life Center, he assists with memory care for elders with dementia. He has also worked with kids in at-risk situations and kids recovering from trauma.

Evening: At the end of the day, it is time for Baxter to return to Turning Point. When he is transported around, the horse does not always ride in the trailer one would imagine. He rides in the backseat, just as his human companions would.

“Whenever he has to ride with the other horses, he knows it is not his normal ride,” Royston said. “He is very sassy.”

When it is cold, the last part of Baxter’s nighttime routine is to get tucked away in his special blanket.

He seems to enjoy spending his days with his handler Brooke Grindinger, a senior at OSU. Grindinger has been with Baxter since her freshman year.

While this day is more typical, game days for the mini-horse are a whole different story.

“He knows when he puts on his orange harness is when he fully becomes B.B,” Royton said.

Royston said the horse becomes filled with more “swag” when his turquoise Turning Point gear is switched for the orange OSU gear.

OSU student Mary Keeling is a volunteer at The Ranch who interacts with Baxter on her weekly visits.

“BB acts like he’s the stuff because he knows he is,” Keeling said. “He has more attitude in his mini hoof than I do in my entire body and he carries it flawlessly.”

The horse is not traveling to Arlington, Texas, to cheer on the team at the Big 12 Championship this weekend, but will be sending his luck from Stillwater. Baxter’s shenanigans can be followed on his Instagram, @ bb_go_pokes or on Turning Point Ranch’s social media pages. entertainment.ed@ocolly.com

O’Colly

Friday, December 3, 2021 Page 5B

News/lifestyle

Q&A with Stillwater theatre member

Ellen Slater Lifestyle Editor Timothy Cole is an Oklahoma State staff member and a member of Stillwater community theatre at Town and Gown. He is a part of the current production of Elf. Q: What is the community in Stillwater Community Theater like?

A: Town and Gown Theatre has one of the best communities I’ve been a part of in Stillwater.

At times it really feels like a family and we love bringing new people in.

Q: How has the process of preparing Elf been? How long have the cast and crew been preparing?

A: Preparing for Elf has been really fun. It’s been a lot of work like any musical but we’ve also had a really good social media campaign going that was great to be a part of.

Q: How does your experience in OSU theatre as a student compare to your experience in Stillwater Community theatre?

A: Going though OSUs theatre program taught me so much about the process of everything theatre and being a part of Town and Gown has helped me to fine tune all those lessons I was taught.

Q: I saw that your daughter was also in this production? What’s that like? Is it your first time being in a show together?

A: Being in this production with my daughter has made this experience extra special she has loved every minute of it.

Elf the Musical is running December 1-5 and 8-12. Showtimes are at 7:30 p.m. Wed. through Sat. and 2:30 on Sun. Tickets can be purchased at the box office or online at townandgown.org.

Caelyn Cox

Merry Main Street brings holiday cheer to Stillwater Downtown Stillwater turns into Merry Main Street for the holiday season.

Dru Norton Staff Reporter

Since 2019, Alane Zanotti and Shannon Williams have organized Merry Main Street holiday events. These activities include horse carriage rides, pictures with Santa, pop-up igloo vendors and more, starting from Main Street to 14th Street in downtown Stillwater. These events begin every weekend starting Nov. 26 and continue through Dec. 19.

Zanotti has served on Stillwater City Council for seven years and was elected as Vice Mayor in April of this year. She and Williams started Merry Main street as a way to spread holiday cheer in the Stillwater community.

“Shannon and I both grew up here in Stillwater, and we wanted to create a holiday tradition in Stillwater that would continue to grow throughout the years,” Zanotti said.

All Merry Main street events are free and open to the public, with the exception of classes in the large hospitality igloo dome that require registration. These classes have a limited number of seating and include holiday cocktail crafting class, candle and wreath making class and a chocolate Christmas tree class. To view the

schedule and register, visit Merry Main Street on Facebook.

“Shannon and I were adamant that no matter what your socio-economic background was, you would find something to do and enjoy at Merry Main Street,” Zanotti said. “We want everyone to be able to participate.”

Oklahoma State students in need of a study break can enjoy a free horse carriage ride, available from 3-9 p.m. this Saturday, Dec. 11 and Dec. 18. Other free events open to the public include a movie night at the Stillwater Community Center, the Stillwater Christmas of Lights parade, Cookies with Cops, S’mores with Firemen and more.

The event schedule is located on the Merry Main Street page on Facebook.

One of the most successful Merry Main Street activities are the four dome vendors located on Block 34, Zanotti said.

Vendors can rent a whole dome for $400, or half a dome for $200. Each vendor goes through an application process and the businesses change every weekend.

The vendor schedule is located on visitstillwater.org/stillwaterholidays/merry-main-st.

This year, an overwhelming number of businesses applied to rent an igloo dome, Zanotti said.

“The first year we had the

igloo vendors people were like, you got domes? You’re doing what? But this year, people got it,” Zanotti said. “The vendors have everything from clothing to pottery and much more. It’s been amazing to see the enthusiasm and interest.”

Last year, the Merry Main Street events were canceled due to COVID-19. During that time, Zanotti and Williams worked with donors, sponsors and the City of Stillwater to raise money to purchase igloo domes, holiday décor and more. Since the events were canceled in 2020, the money leftover was used to add more holiday décor and thousands of more lights down Main Street.

“If we had to think of a positive out of coronavirus, it was that last year we could focus on purchasing lights for downtown so that this year, we have lighting all down Main Street for seven blocks, and the domes on 34th Street,” Zanotti said. “It really looks magical.”

Onlookers can turn their radio to FM 89.7 to hear Christmas music synchronized to these LED lights daily, from dusk until dawn.

news.ed@ocolly.com

Abby Cage

OSU’s poinsettia plethora Tickets are on sale for the Town and Gown Theatre’s production of Elf the Musical.

Anna Pope News Editor

Oklahoma State students tended to the poinsettias throughout the semester.

Habbie Colen Although there are different varieties of poinsettias on sale, there are also plants like ornamental kale being sold.

Habbie Colen

Habbie Colen Poinsettias are on sale at Oklahoma State today.

Bruce Dunn has ordered thousands of poinsettias over 13 years.

In a greenhouse management course, Oklahoma State students are separated into groups to work on the semester-long project of raising around 2,000 poinsettias and other crops such as ornamental kale and petunias. Then, on the Thursday and Friday after Thanksgiving, the plants go on sale.

Bruce Dunn, a floriculture and departmental greenhouse coordinator, said students water and check on to the plants at least once every day.

Through this, Dunn said, students gain experience and learn how to manage in a controlled environment, like a greenhouse.

“I want them to see the real world,” Dunn said. “That if you are going to use a greenhouse, then it’s seven days a week.”

In addition to tending to a red

poinsettias, there is a variety of pink, white and multicolored poinsettias.

“There’s a speckled one (poinsettia) I’ve always liked,” Dunn said.

In order for the plants to arrive on time so students can plant them at the beginning of the semester, Dunn must order the crops ahead of time. Dunn will place an order for certain types depending on how well the plants fair throughout the weeks and which varieties are in demand.

Dunn said the public flocks to sale and people feedback on all aspects of the plants. Because students work the sale, he said it provides another opportunity to gain experience.

Although preparing students is the goal of the project, Dunn said one of the most fulfilling parts of the project happens when it is finished.

“At the end whenever we get rid of all these plants,” Dunn said. “We’ve been taking care of them for so long its just good to see them out.”

On the first day of the sale Nue Chang, an animal science pre-vet senior, placed long white tubes, drip emitters, into the

poinsettia pots that are being held back in the greenhouse for customers.

Chang decided to take horticulture classes to help out her family’s businesses.

However, through this course, Chang said she would have like to change her major.

“I definitely fell in love with it a little late in the game, but it’s OK,” Chang said.

For the students to work together, Chang said it takes a lot of management and a lot of communication.

Chang said the schedule does change based on how often the plants must be watered and how big they are. To hand water the plants, Chang said it can take about two hours. However, using the emitters, it takes about 10 minutes.

With winter break in mind, Chang said it will be nice to not worry about checking on the plants and if other members of the team can not make their shift.

“Were happy to see them go too...”

Chang said. “It’s really gratifying to have to grow these.”

news.ed@ocolly.com

Page 6B Friday, December 3, 2021

O’Colly

News

Testing tribulations

Study habits during dead week What lengths do students go?

OSU students discuss finals Teyte Holcomb Staff Reporter

Reagan Glass Staff Reporter After a long semester, dead week has arrived at Oklahoma State.

From Monday to Friday, students prepare for the final countdown of classes and study for final exams.

“I utilize memorization as a studying tool,” said Aly Francis, an animal science and agricultural communications junior.

Francis said as she transitioned into college, the best way to memorize material was to create notecards a couple days before the test date. Francis said writing material on notecards and studying the specific topics covered through lectures helps retain information for exams.

“The craziest thing I’ve ever done to prepare for a final is create a song to memorize definitions for my agriculture sales exam and then dance to the song I made up,” Francis said.

“I pulled an all-nighter for this exam too and the only thing going through my head during the rest of the day was the song.”

On the contrary, Jessica Rodriguez, an elementary education junior, does not stay up all night to study for exams.

“I value my sleep so much, so by 11 I’m already in bed,” Rodriguez said. “I would have to say the craziest thing I’ve done is just stay up super late. For me, it’s not common. I prefer waking up early, so waking up really early for an exam is more common.”

Some students go to extreme lengths to study for finals, like consuming lots of caffeine.

“I once walked to a convenience store at 3 a.m. to get Red Bull, which is wild enough when studying engineering,” said Cale Sawatzky, a civil engineering senior.

Sawatzky said pulling an “all-nighter” is not uncommon, especially when having multiple tests close together.

Sawatzky’s biggest tip: figure out how you learn best.

“Everyone learns differently, so applying the best study habits to utilize your time is going to be the most effective,” Sawatzky said. “Getting started early to review the material multiple times is better than cramming everything at the last minute.”

Francis said to plan the things going on during dead week and the week of finals so students can set study times, as well as times to decompress and relax a bit. news.ed@ocolly.com

Oklahoma State students prepare for the final week of the semester.

Abby Cage

Caelyn Cox Through trial and error, some Oklahoma State students found their study niche for tests.

Finals are among students at Oklahoma State, and students are preparing for what is considered by some the most stressful week in college life.

There are multiple aspects of finals week that add or take away pressure for students and professors.

Katherine Buckmaster, a sophomore, said most of her professors have been accommodating during this time, there are a few who can add to the stress of finals week.

“I’m a transfer, so this is my first year at OSU,” Buckmaster said.

“Even though I’m in my first year, I am already seeing how different professors handle different situations when it comes to test taking.”

In an article published in Yale Daily News, Yale University’s student newspaper, said the psychological impact finals puts on students is anything but healthy.

Another challenge students face is burn out when it comes to finals. Ivy league students are not the only ones feeling burned out when it comes to finals. Chloe Best, a junior, said she feels like she is not able to put her best effort into studying.

“The amount of things that professors throw on us at the end of the year is overwhelming,” Best said. “Of course I want to do well on my finals, but the amount of work that every professor gives can be too much to handle all at once.”

Finals week is known for adding stress for students and professors. An article in The Chronicle of Higher Education said the COVID-19 pandemic has limited the amount of in-person test taking, which results in a gap between actually learning the material and taking a test.

Nic Cryer, a junior at OSU, said his finals have not been as stressful compared to years past.

“I feel like my finals this year are a lot more laid back compared to last,” Cryer said. “My major is definitely test heavy, but this year I haven’t really gotten the same amount of tests I usually do.”

news.ed@ocolly.com

O’Colly

Friday, December 3, 2021 Page 7B

Classifieds

FOR RELEASE DECEMBER 3, 2021

Los Angeles Times Daily Crossword Puzzle

Houses For Rent Business Squares Church Meetings Spacious 1100 sq. ft. 2 bedroom home. Recently remodeled, Wood floors, CH/A, Nice yard.

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405-372-7107

“The Original Hideaway, located on the corner of Knoblock and University.

Serving quality pizza and more since 1957.”

Business Squares Come check out the wide variety of elegant clothing at Formal Fantasy!

Located on 121 E. 9th Ave, Downtown Stillwater The best selection of beer, wine and liquor that Stillwater has to offer! Perfect for all your game day needs, come to Brown’s Bottle Shop located on 128 N. Main $100/year parking on East side of Campus, near Eskimo Joe’s. Call Salem Luteran at 405-372-3074 and leave message.

Join the New Covenant Fellowship for service every Sunday at 10am and share in our passion for Jesus Christ!”

Enhance your resume!

• Learn how to sell and make money!

• Salary includes commission and generous bonuses.

Apply now for Spring 2022 Advertising Sales Positions at the O’Colly Media Group!

• Applicants must be able to meet clients at their businesses & work office hours as needed.

Previous experience preferred but not required.

To apply: Come to room 106 in the Paul Miller Journalism Building or email resume to Lori@OColly.com

Edited by Rich Norris and Joyce Lewis

ACROSS 1 Some model home residents 6 Wrinkle, as one’s brow 10 Rocky greetings 13 ’40s-’50s “Giant Brain” 14 Streaming biggie 15 Gas station convenience 16 Nightclub for seasonal workers?

18 Capital on a fjord 19 Easter supply 20 Watson portrayer opposite Jonny Lee Miller’s Holmes 21 California athlete 22 Reaction to opening a can of Whiskas?

26 Hardly well 29 Surprise hits 30 Pontificates 33 Narrow strip of wood 34 Hit shows, and a hint to four puzzle answers 40 Top-notch 41 Note in the key of B major 42 Hung jury result 46 Pop of pop music 47 Like the Charles River in February, to a local?

50 Nice thoughts?

51 What “W” may mean 52 Pilot or Explorer 55 Gold rush town where Wyatt Earp ran the Dexter Saloon 56 Styling gel for a ’50’s teenager?

60 “Dagnabbit!”

61 Wind from the French for “high wood” 62 Baseball VIP 63 Half of a Chinese pair 64 Conference giveaways 65 Demanding attention DOWN 1 Act 2 Just

12/3/21

By Jeffrey Diton

3 Long sentence 4 Lakers rivals, on NBA scoreboards 5 Milan’s La __ 6 Alison of bluegrass 7 Scand. land 8 Prez after Harry 9 Tsk relative 10 Max who owned the Woodstock farmland 11 Discount phrase 12 Pinched 15 “Hidden Figures” actress Janelle __ 17 Tiny amount 21 Top dogs 22 Wrestler-turnedactor John 23 Not seasonal 24 Pod residents?

25 Website for animal owners 26 Hold up 27 Fig. in lending 28 2016 Olympics city 31 Tinder outings 32 There’s a point to it 35 “It’s not __, it’s a when”

Thursday’s Puzzle Solved

©2021 Tribune Content Agency, LLC

36 __ guard 37 Crone 38 Unit of energy 39 Bond, for one 42 Olympic skater Ito 43 Certain clutch player, in sports parlance 44 Shooting competition 45 A bit fuzzy, as an image

12/3/21

47 Blowing a lot 48 Evasive maneuver 49 2001 scandal subject 52 Sound 53 Secondhand 54 To a high degree 56 Bunny __ 57 White House nickname 58 Charged particle 59 Farm mom

Daily Horoscope

Nancy Black Tribune Content Agency Linda Black Horoscopes Today’s Birthday (12/03/21). Connect with others to grow this year. Creative expression thrives on disciplined practices. Win a winter personal prize that electrifies your springtime physical performance levels. Adapt plans around summer changes, before autumn’s creative muses inspire a stroke of genius. Expand by sharing, interweaving and coordinating.

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 an 8 — Educational opportunities arise with the Sagittarius Eclipse. The next six-month phase favors study, investigation and exploration. Consider new perspectives. Make connections, contributions and bold discoveries.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) — Today is a 9 — Find creative ways to grow your family nest egg. A lucrative six-month phase dawns with tonight’s New Moon Eclipse. Launch profitable initiatives together.

Gemini (May 21-June 20) — Today is an 8 — Collaboration flowers. Your partnership blossoms, with the Sagittarius Eclipse. Strengthen bonds and deepen roots over the next six months. Begin another chapter together.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) — Today is a 9 — Energize your physical moves. The Eclipse tonight initiates six months of growing health and strength. Put your heart into your actions. Practice makes perfect.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) — Today is an 8 — Enjoy yourself. Stir up some romance.

The Sagittarius Eclipse tonight initiates a six-month family, fun and passion phase.

Get creative. It’s all for love.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) — Today is a 9 — Realize domestic visions. Make longdesired upgrades over a six-month Sagittarius Eclipse phase. Get creative. Improve the beauty and functionality of your home. Nurture your family.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) — Today is an 8 — Profit through communications.

Possibilities spark in conversation over this six-month Sagittarius Eclipse phase.

Creative projects flower. Express, share and connect. Write your story.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) — Today is a 9 — Begin a lucrative six-month Eclipse phase. Discover fresh markets and rising prosperity. Strengthen financial foundations for growth. Rake in and preserve a healthy harvest.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) — Today is a 9 — Pursue personal dreams. Expand talents, capacities and skills over the next six months, with the Eclipse in your sign. Grow and develop. Shine your light.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) — Today is an 8 — Insights, breakthroughs and revelations sparkle in the dark of tonight’s Solar Eclipse. Dreams seem within reach.

Enjoy a six-month creative, imaginative and organizational phase.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) — Today is a 9 — Connect for shared support, fun and appreciation. This six-month Sagittarius Eclipse phase benefits team efforts. Grow through friendships, social networks and community participation.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) — Today is a 9 — This Sagittarius Eclipse illuminates professional opportunities. Develop projects from idea to reality over the next months. Pursue exciting possibilities. Your career, status and influence rise.

Level 1

2

3

4

12/3/21

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

© 2021 The Mepham Group. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency. All rights reserved.

Page 8B Friday, November 26, 2021

O’Colly

Lifestyle

Looking the art Capstone art exhibition

Juen’s inspiration for her art stems from her Christian faith.

Courtesy of Courtney Juen

dents have been preparing their whole college careers for this show and are finally getting to debut their hard work.

“Preparing for the senior show has been one of the most incredible and life-giving seasons of my life,” Juen said.

Ellen Slater Juen’s work in particular, which Lifestyle Editor was displayed alongside her classmates, emphasizes “stillness as a form of Courtney Juen caught two hours encounter.” of sleep in the tent she used as home“(My art) shows how beauty is base outside of the Oklahoma State art experimentally tangible when we are studio during her 72-hour work day. just able to sit back and simply enjoy June worked a total of 74 hours in something beautiful. The motivation five days, the five days leading up to the behind that comes from my faith,” Juen art exhibition. said.

This lifestyle and sacrifice of Emma Lynn is an art student slumber in her college apartment were participating in the show. not for nothing: The Capstone ExhibiLynn shared a story of filling a tion took off this week. OSU art stukiddie pool up with nitric acid to etch

BE DEFINITE!

It has been a number of years ago that the Lord Jesus challenged me to be definite in making myself available to him. I was attending church regularly. My wife and I were giving to the work of God. We were not doing anything that would be considered wrong in the eyes of God. I thought I was available to Christ.

As I prayed about this, I felt the Lord wanted me to spend more consistent time with him. I decided to get up each morning and spend an hour in prayer and in the Bible. The first morning when I knelt at the living room couch, I went to sleep. What a commitment! However, I did not give up. The next morning with my Bible in hand, I walked back and forth across the living room praising, praying and reading the Bible. I was being definite, not perfect, but definite.

Courtney Juen posing with one of her pieces in the art show.

copper that is now exhibited in the gallery.

“The craziest part of prep was just the emotional and physical investment and exhaustion that went into it all,” Lynn said. “My work specifically pulls from some already emotionally weighted areas internally, so dealing with addressing those concepts while trying to meet all of the other ongoing demands of producing and fulfilling an exhibition…it was certainly taxing, but rewarding just the same.”

Seyvon Vick is another senior art student participating in the show.

“The show really means a lot to me because it gave me a sense of what is to come in my journey as an artist,” Vick says.

The department works throughout the degree track to prepare students for

this final exhibit. They work to set students up for success in the professional art world, with this show just being a part of that.

The students’ hard work is displayed in the Gardiner Gallery in the Bartlett Center and the general public is not only welcome, but encouraged to come see the art.

“The preparation process was so, so demanding and the easiest thing to give so much time to,” Juen said.

The Capstone Exhibition runs through Dec. 10, where the community can admire students like Juen, Vick and Lynn’s work and dedication to OSU art.

entertainment.ed@ocolly.com

King David said, “My heart says of you (God), ‘Seek his Face! Your face, Lord, I will seek.’

(Ps.27:8) David was a man after God’s own heart.

He certainly was not perfect, but one who sought after and followed God. Being definite with God has such great reward. He is the Good Shepherd that will faithfully lead our lives into the best and lasting way. As the Lord challenges our lives in various areas of obedience and service, It is so important to be definite; to be clear, to be wholehearted. Go all the way, and do that thing(s) you are challenged to do. Don’t compromise!

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Possibly God is challenging you about a definite time in prayer and in scripture. Maybe it is in giving; not just occasionally, but often and consistently Maybe it is Christian service; helping is mission work; worthwhile projects.

Go for it! Be definite. You will find God definite, and there will be lasting fruit and satisfaction.

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