Friday 3/11

Friday, March 11, 2022

Students engage with 7th graders Christopher Sneed O’Colly Contributor

Courtesy of Hunter Thomas

Evolution of Pete’s boots

Hunter Thomas, a Pistol Pete in 2019-20, wore Ariat’s custom-made orange ostrich leather boots while the style has evolved.

the look.

“Rick and I were given a stipend, and we went down to Teener’s and bought a pair of boots to wear for that Rachel Williamson year,” David Treece, a 1984-85 Pete, said.

Staff Reporter “They didn’t give us any direction. I tried to get Since 1958, the as orange of a boot that Pistol Pete mascot I could find, but it ended costume has undergone up being a light tan.” countless evolutions.

A couple of deThe element of the cos- cades later, the mascots tume that has arguably started getting customthe most are the iconic made boots, moving cowboy boots. closer to the current Along with the Pistol Pete style. rest of the costume, in “The first year the earlier years Petes we got a pair of orange had to supply their own boots from The Terriboots, until the Athletic tory that were Anderson Department took over Beans,” Josh Pulver, in the ‘80s. Many boot a 2003-05 Pete, said. styles and brands have “They were just so worn been worn during the down that we got a years, until Pete’s Ariat second pair done at the sponsorship streamlined OSU Okmulgee Boot

and Saddle School. Our shafts, gun belts and boots were all made at that school.”

During the years, custom-making the boots have had some hiccups.

“We had roundtoe orange Anderson Beans,” Wyatt Swinford, a 2010-11 Pete, said. “Very plain. But I wore my black Lizard Ferrinis for most of the year because my boots were delayed due to some kind of shortage.”

Now, the boots Pistol Pete wears are Ariat’s custom-made orange ostrich leather.

Steven Vekony, a 201718 Pete, said the custom boot process was straightforward.

“Ariat is our sponsor, and they custom make us boots,” Vekony

said. “So, you can’t really buy these boots anywhere. So like when I started, I wore black Ariats from Cavender’s for about a month until the custom ones came in. We went to Cavender’s and found boots that fit our size in Ariat, and then they sent it off for us and then it came back.”

Rick Wilson, a 1984-86 Pete, said his son, Parker Wilson, has been the current Pistol Pete for two years.

“I told him, ‘I wish my foot was as big as yours, I’d wear that other pair of custom boots you got,’” Rick Wilson said. “They’re really nice.”

news.ed@ocolly.com

Humans of OSU: Nic Girolamo

Dru Norton News Editor Exotic animals are safe in Dr. Nic Di Girolamo’s hands.

As an associate professor of Exotics and Zoological medicine in the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences at OSU’s Veterinary Medical Hospital, it is Girolamo’s job to care for exotic animals.

From ferrets to owls, Girolamo ensures each sick or injured animal is taken care of accordingly.

“I take care of exotic pets for people,” Girolamo said. “If you have a bird, bearded dragon, rabbit or parrot, you can bring it and we can ensure it is healthy or give the necessary treatment.”

Along with treating the animals, Girolamo conducts

ics such as credit cards versus debit cards, investing, savings and setting goals.

The accounting students used material from The Association of International Certified Professional Accountants Financial Literacy Program, combined with their research and accounting theory courses, to create the curriculum.

Students will use Kahoot, an online learning tool where people can create games to share in the workforce or classrooms. Stillwater Middle School supplied the seventh graders with Chromebooksto access the online content.

It was important to reach every seventh grader, regardless of his or her level of knowledge and financial status, Kinsey said.

Kinsey’s parents were private about their finances, which is common in some households. She said she thinks parents should open with kids, not with specifics but enough to start them on their financial journey. In her case, it might have helped her control the money she earned walking dogs or babysitting more responsibly.

“Beyond the simple math of, ‘I pay $20 and get $10 back,’” Kinsey said. “That’s just math and I don’t think I fully understood budgeting and saving until. . . my senior year of high school.”

The OSU students’ mission includes making seventh graders aware financial literacy matters regardless of the path taken in life.

John Allen, a graduate student assigned to teach Monday’s classes, enrolled in the accounting program because he wants to be a musician, for example. When he graduated from high school, his parents helped him recognize an understanding of finances could help him avoid mistakes in his career.

“A bad manager or a record deal they should have read, and they just signed it,” Allen said. “I’m hoping to avoid those bad outcomes by this accounting degree.”

His parents have always taken an active role in developing his financial literacy.

College students are creating wealthy seventh graders and expecting returns on the investment.

Emma Kinsey is one of three accounting students leading her fellow graduate school accounting classmates into Stillwater Middle School, armed with a financial literacy curriculum. A first of its kind for Oklahoma State University and the middle school, the program gives graduate students the opportunity to share guidance and educational games to about 400 seventh graders.

“Some kids grow up and never hear about financial literacy in their homes,” Kinsey said. “We thought if we expose them younger. . . they would be able to move forward and grow that knowledge.”

Kinsey, along with fellow project leaders Emme Cain and Hallie Sutter, designed the curriculum and materials.

Once their accounting peers saw the plan and materials, they took the idea to Stillwater High School’s counselor, Josh Zimmerman.

Zimmerman took the proposal to the middle school’s math teachers. They were eager to participate for a few reasons.

“We always look for good community projects,” Zimmerman said. “This is something where the students get something other than their teacher standing up and telling them what to do.

“They’re starting to mature. They’re starting to have more responsibilities at home.

They have their eyes set higher at this age level. They’re a little more excited about the future.”

The use of college students might have an added benefit. Some children might see a college student as a peer or relate to them because of the narrow age gap. Additionally, it reinforces material the teachers cover in math class.

The program started Jan. 24 with college students getting to know the seventh graders’ goals and interests.

Then, the college students gave a presentation about top- See 7th graders on 8A

Brooks Q&A event postponed

Because of their complex features, some of Dr. Nicola Di Girolamo’s favorite patients are tortoises.

research, striving to understand the best treatments and diets for exotic animals.

Originally from Rome, Girolamo earned his Ph.D. in Veterinary Sciences at the University of Bologna in Italy.

In 2016, he moved to Sha Tin,

Hong Kong, to work at the Tai Wai Small Animal and Exotic Hospital.

Girolamo said his move to Stillwater in 2018 took some adjusting, but he enjoys the closeknit community.

See Nic on 5A

Unanswered prayers? Garth Brooks will not be returning to Stillwater, at least not Friday.

Brooks will no longer be hosting a mentorship Q&A session at the McKnight Center due to possible winter weather impacting the area.

The event was supposed to be held in three different sessions starting at 10 a.m. and run throughout the day.

A date to reschedule could be hard to find with Brooks continuing The Garth Brooks Stadium Tour. The next show is scheduled for March 26 in Orlando, Florida, with dates following in April, May and beyond.

Brooks has not been back to Stillwater in an official capacity in decades and was prepared to speak with students about careers in music, notably song writing, radio management and social media.

What’s Inside

Provost search committee Page 5A

OSU announced the 24-person search committee for the next provost.

SGA Page 6A

OSU’s SGA delayed its election results due to violations.

Disability awarenessPage 7A

Oklahomans gathered to raise awareness for Disability Awareness Day.

Page 2A Friday, March 11, 2022

O’Colly

Page 2

St. Patrick’s Day Countdown: 6 days Parades March 17

Stockyards City St. Patrick’s Day Parade Stockyards, Oklahoma City Blue Dome St. Patrick’s Day Celebration Downtown, Tulsa St. Paddy’s Party Downtown, Claremore

Top St. Patty’s Day Drinks

The most iconic St. Patrick’s Day meal is corned beef, potatoes, cabbage and carrots.

The meal became popular because it was inexpensive and simple to prepare.

Photo of the week

Green Beer · Beer · Green food coloring

By Abby Cage

Apple Martini · Two ounces sour apple liqueur · One ounce vodka · One ounce lemon juice · One teaspoon honey

Irish Mule · Two ounces Irish whiskey · Six ounces ginger beer · Juice from half a lime · Lime slices · Ice

Please drink responsibly.

Bailey’s Irish Floats · Six scoops vanilla ice cream · Two cups Guinness beer · 1/2 cup Baileys Irish Cream · 1/4 cup chocolate syrup

The Chilly Cowboy fundraiser had its polar plunge Monday afternoon, after raising about $32,000 for Special Olympics in Oklahoma. Softball player Chelsea Alexander (middle) spearheaded the fundraising with her brother, Caden (left) who has Down Syndrome, in mind, along with the help of First Cowboy Darren Shrum (right).

Editorial board

Reporters/photographers

Editor-in-chief Chris Becker editorinchief@ocolly.com

Sports editor Dean Ruhl sports.ed@ocolly.com

News editor Dru Norton news.ed@ocolly.com

Design editor Sam Beebe design.ed@ocolly.com

Lifestyle editor Teyte Holcomb entertainment.ed@ocolly.com

Photo editor Abby Cage photo.ed@ocolly.com

Assistant sports editor Sam Hutchens sports.ed@ocolly.com

Adviser John Helsley john.helsley@okstate.edu

News & Lifestyle reporters: Jake Sellers Sierra Walton Rachel Williamson Kylie Hammack Mak Vandruff Stephen Stumpf Ellen Slater Jaden Besteda Anna Pope Allie Putman Kaylie Sequira

Newsroom

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

Sports reporters: Sudeep Tumma Ben Hutchens Adam Engel Daniel Allen Gavin Pendergraff Kaleb Tadpole Davis Cordova Jax Thompson Calif Poncy Ashton Slaughter Ben Creider Gabriel Trevino Payton Little Baylor Bryant Rowdy Baribeau Braden Bush Ivan White

Party/Semi-formal Pageant/Performace Wedding

Photographers: Jaiden Daughty Braden King Branson Evans Habbie Colen Abby Smith Alex Hernandez Molly Jolliff Sarah Briscoe Karisa Sheely Noah Weber Karlie Boothe

121 E 9th Ave, Downtown www.formalfantasy.com 405-780-7720

O’Colly

Lifestyle

Friday, March 11, 2022 Page 3A

OSU’s GOT TALENT OSU students showcased their talents during the SUAB Talent Show in the Student Union on Wednesday.

All photos by Karlie Boothe

HIMALAYAN GROCERY STORE WHEN IS LITTLE MUCH?

There is a short chorus that has encouraged me many times. “Little is much if God is in it. Labor not for wealth or fame. There’s a crown and you can win it. If you go in Jesus’ name.”

The woman, who poured the precious ointment on Jesus just before he was crucified, was criticized for “wasting” this expensive item. Yet, Jesus said everywhere the gospel is preached this woman’s action would be told. (Mk 14:3-9) Little things mean a lot as we are willing to serve the Lord. Paul mentions many in Romans 16 who helped him. The Good Samaritan stopped to help the man beaten and robbed.

(Lu.10:30-37) Paul writes as you have opportunity, do good to all men, especially to other believers.(Gal.6:10) When the poor widow dropped the two pennies, all that she had, into the temple offering. Jesus said she gave more the large offerings given. Her “large giving” was in relation to what she had. (Mk.12:41-44)

Many people may plan to give when they receive a great amount of money, but that large amount of money may never come. We may plan to give time or talent to a project when we have more time, but that perfect time arrangement may never happen. Again, the apostle Paul encourages us “as you have opportunity, do good to all men.”

We never know when a little gesture of kindness, with money, or helping in an area of service, spending a little time with a person, a word of encouragement, will be just the action that will be a great help to someone. These can be practical ways of living out the Lord’s challenge to love one another. This is the fulfilling of the many commandments in the Bible: loving people by word and action.

Page 4A Friday, March 11, 2022

O’Colly

News/Lifestyle

Taylor’s Restaurant provides student-led dining experience

Jaiden Daughty Food at Taylor’s Restaurant is served buffet-style and changes its cuisine weekly to reflect another part of the globe.

Courtesy of Tribune News Service

‘The Batman’ returns

“The Batman” broke post-pandemic box office records by bringing in an estimated $128 million.

that Batman’s war on crime in Gotham feels as if it is a losing battle from the beginning. The latest take on the Dark Knight is grim, gritty and at its core, is a noir detective Connor Gray story from which we have Staff Reporter never seen pertaining to Batman, the World’s The words, “I’m Greatest Detective. vengeance,” should be Throughout the warning enough that this entirety of the film, is not your average comic Reeves succeeds in creatbook or Batman movie. ing tension and at times “The Batman” is unlike even crafts scary elements any, other Batman movie through both the main anmade and excels at what tagonist and protagonist, it is trying to do, making Batman and the Riddler. a not only a fantastic BatThe performances man film, but an incredfrom all the main cast in ible film in general.

“The Batman” are fantasUndoubtedly, the tic, but a couple of standbest aspect of “The Batouts were Collin Farrell man” is the mood and as the Penguin and Paul tone that director Matt Dano as the Riddler. It is Reeves created for this hard to choose between film’s Gotham City and its all the great performances inhabitants. Through the in the film, but Farrell portrayal of Gotham City completely transformed and the citizens, the film both physically and clarifies why it is such mentally for his role to a bad place and why it where you no longer see would make a man want Farrell; you see Oswald to dress up as a bat and Cobblepot. try to make a difference.

Dano plays a terrifyThis is the first time ing and unhinged Riddler

that narrows in on just how smart, but insane this representation of Edward Nashton is. Robert Pattinson, Zoë Kravitz, Jeffrey Wright and John Turturro are fantastic in their respective roles as well.

It is impossible to talk about “The Batman” and not mention how beautiful the film is in its entirety. From start to finish, the cinematography is phenomenal and the musical score from composer Michael Giacchino enhances the film in the best ways possible.

“The Batman” also boasts writing that is clever, captivating and at times emotional. In a detective story one of the biggest aspects is mystery.

“The Batman” delivered a mystery for the Dark Knight to solve that is full of good twists, while also having great action scenes with stellar choreography and camera work at times.

With that being said, there are a couple of criticisms of “The Batman.”

The runtime for the film is glaringly long and although I did not get tired of anything on screen, I did start to feel the length at a point.

Toward the end, it felt as if it could have been shortened a little bit.

My last nitpick for the film is I did not feel as if there was enough time spent with Bruce Wayne due to most of the runtime being with his alter-ego, Batman. However, a positive aspect of this is that for the first time in a Batman film, Batman is in almost every scene of the movie it seems like.

“The Batman” is a fabulous showcase of what a great film is, while also doing justice to the beloved hero in a way that has not been shown on the screen before. I left the theater eagerly wanting to see this film again, despite the runtime, and full of anticipation for the inevitable sequel to “The Batman.”

Paint your heart out

entertainment.ed@ocolly.com

OSU students gather to paint spring landscape

Students at OSU joined instructor Amy Wu as they painted and created a spring landscape for the upcoming season.

Kaylie Sequira Staff Reporter

didn’t have to necessarily be super artistic and they can just have their own take on it,” Wu said.

Salome Suarez, a PhD student On Monday, Oklahoma State studying plant pathology, said she students participated in a guided has always liked painting. Suarez paint night in the Student Union said she attended this event to disStarlight Terrace sponsored by tract herself from her responsibiliThe Student Arts Alliance and the ties and to get creative.

Student Union Activities Board. All “The instructor makes me feel painting supplies were provided for like I can really do this,” Suarez this event along with complimentary said. snacks and beverages.

Libby Bates, a senior accountBecause this painting night ing major and member of the leisure was the spring edition, the instruc- and entertainment committee for tor showed attendees how to paint the Student Union Activities Board, a spring landscape. The goal was to also got creative at paint night. As give students access to paint their someone who isn’t a regular painter, own paintings, Amy Wu, vice presi- Bates said she felt that the painting dent of production, said. was a lot of fun.

“I think paint night was just Along with first timers, freshgiving access to students where they man graphic design student Lauren

Molly Jolliff

Casto said she is used to painting for some of her classes within her major. Casto said she enjoyed the image they were painting because it was more intricate and the finished product was something to be proud of.

“I like the fact that we get the opportunity to just sit and paint,” Casto said. “I feel like it’s good stress relief.”

Whether you are experienced in painting or just beginning, paint night can be an opportunity to gain experience, have access to painting supplies and meet fellow painters.

Keep your eyes peeled for more art events put together by the Student Union Activities Board and the Student Arts Alliance. entertainment.ed@ocolly.com

Dru Norton News Editor Taylor’s Restaurant is not a typical restaurant, it also serves as a teaching school.

From the food to the service, Oklahoma State University’s Hospitality and Tourism Management students compose the staff of Taylor’s, in 170 Nancy Rudolph Davis Building. Each student has multiple duties to ensure the restaurant runs smoothly.

Mark Cochran is an executive chef and instructor of practice at Taylor’s, spending most of his time in the kitchen, teaching students how to cook various cuisines from around the world.

“When the students walk in, it’s a brand-new menu,” Cochran said. “As a 21st century kid, they better know the world. If they can’t converse in all styles of food, they are going to be in trouble.”

Served buffet-style, Taylor’s changes its cuisine to reflect another part of the globe each week. Cochran said students learn about the culture of each area as they cook, helping them become versatile in their cooking abilities. This semester, students will cook dishes from Italy, China, France, Spain, Cuba and more.

“We also have a week of Heartland cuisine, which is food you would typically find in the South, and the kind we are used to,” Cochran said. “So, we do a bit of everything.”

Before arriving at OSU six years ago, Cochran was an executive chef in Stockholm, Sweden, for 35 years. He specialized in fine dining and hotels.

Deciding he wanted a change, Cochran earned his bachelor’s degree in food service operations and restaurant management at Aspen University in Denver in 2011. He earned his master’s in education assessments and outcomes at the same university in 2019.

“Cooking is a passion,” Cochran said. “It never felt like a job. Now, being an instructor, I love getting to see these students find their passion and what they enjoy doing.”

As freshmen, students enroll in a class called food studies, learning the basic techniques of cooking. The next year, students must enroll in restaurant operations, the class marking their start at Taylor’s. For eight weeks of the semester, students are divided into two groups: front of the house (where customers order and dine) and back of the house (the kitchen). The students switch positions during

the last eight weeks of the semester.

“It’s a very fastpaced program, but our students can handle it,” Cochran said. “By the end of the semester, they walk out with the knowledge and experience needed to further their career.”

Front of the house duties include hosting, serving patrons and clearing tables as the students working the back of the house cook and prepare the food.

That way, students have knowledge of how to run a restaurant in all areas, Cochran said.

For some students, this is their first time working in a restaurant.

“It’s something we do differently here at OSU, giving students that hands-on experience in the kitchen and interacting with guests,” Cochran said. “I think it’s one of the major reasons why this program is so successful. It’s what makes us unique.”

When students finish with lunch service at Taylor’s, they have a “family meal” together, eating the rest of the food served that day. Cochran said this allows students to experience the different flavor profiles of each dish and gives them a chance to rest and talk to one another after a busy service.

Pierce Jones, a senior, said he enjoys the moments after the shift ends, when he and his colleagues gather around a big table in the middle of Taylor’s, tasting each dish.

“It’s really cool because even though we are all at different stages in our college career, we still work together and run a restaurant,” Jones said. “We’ve all grown to know each other well.

Most people in other majors can’t say that.”

As a senior, Jones was selected as front of the house manager. He is responsible for training and supervising the team of underclassmen working in the front of the house. For the second half of the semester, he will switch to back of the house manager.

After graduation, Jones wants to work as a manager at a restaurant.

“I’ve grown up in the restaurant business, and I’ve always enjoyed it,” Jones said. “I love cooking, interacting with people and the fast-paced environment.”

When the program began in 1937, it had another name: the School of Hospitality and Restaurant Administration.

Since then, the program has expanded and made several changes. In 2017, it was renamed the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management.

Brij Thapa, head of the department, said this strategic change was made to add a more business-focused curriculum and reorganize the academic structure.

See Taylor’s on 7A

O’Colly

News

Friday, March 11, 2022 Page 5A

OSU announces search committee for new provost select a large pool of candidates.

“This is a critical step in the process and everyone can participate.

If you know of a qualified candidate you would Chris Becker like to suggest, send Editor-in-Chief their name to the search committee co-chairs,” the The search for a release said. new provost has taken In the review step, another step forward. the committee will review Tuesday, OSU Presi- the applicants and recomdent Dr. Kayse Shrum mend approximately three announced the 24-person finalists. search committee that The finalists will will head the search for be asked to interview on the new senior vice presi- campus in the selection dent and provost. stage.

Dr. Tom Coon,vice Of the 24 people president, dean and on the committee, 23 director of the Division work at OSU. They are: of Agricultural Sciences Calvin Anthony, regent; and Natural Resources, Karen Chen, Enrollment and Dr. Johnny Stephens, Management; Ki Cole, president of the OSU Education and Human Center for Health SciSciences, Vice Chair; ences, interim president Mikayla Doty, Student of OSU-Tulsa and senior Government Association; vice president for health Sam Emerson, Education affairs will co-chair the and Human Sciences; committee.

Cara Eubanks, School Shrum also anof Global Studies and nounced the search will Partnerships; Heather take part in three phases, Fahlenkamp, College of recruiting, review and Engineering, Architecture selection. and Technology; James The review phase Hess, Interim Vice Prowill see the university vost; Randy Kluver,Dean

of the School of Global Studies and Partnerships; Glen Krutz, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences; Veronique Lacombe, College of Veterinary Medicine; Marlys Mason, Spears School of Business; Mindy McCann, College of Arts and Sciences; Leon McClinton, University Housing & Residential Life; Alvin Ngo, College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology; Rita Peaster, OSU Registrar; Shane Robinson, Ferguson College of Agriculture; Robert Taylor, College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology; Brij Thapa, School of Hospitality and Tourism Management; Clyde Wilson, Associate Vice President for Institutional Diversity and Christa Louthan, Assistant Vice President of Administration and Finance.

The 24th member of the committee is Martin Baker, Buffkin Baker Executive Search Firm.

Jeanette Mendez has served as the OSU interim provost since April 1. news.ed@ocolly.com

Alex Hernandez Foreign exchange students at OSU had the opportunity to tour Boone Pickens Stadium and get an inside look at Gallagher Iba Arena.

International students tour Boone Pickens Stadium Alex Hernandez Staff Reporter

Wednesday, the Global Scholars program had a tour of Boone Pickens Stadium where they got to see inside the stadium and Gallagher-Iba Arena.

A few students who were in Stillwater last semester returned to the football stadium, as the new students this semester had the chance to enter the stadium for the first time. The purpose of the tour was to show the students the history of the arena and show the championships and accolades OSU teams and individual athletes won.

Students were satis- amazing.” fied with the results of the The attendees could tour as they had a lot of walk on the field and have fun checking a place with the opportunity to view lots of history.

Gallagher-Iba from the “The tour was amaz- middle of the court. ing and was a lot of fun,” The directors said said Yusei Miyazaki, a they planned this event so Japanese exchange student students can learn about in the global scholars pro- the rich history OSU has gram. “I loved being able with sports. Sports at to walk on the field.”

OSU is a big deal and has Some students loved produced many athletes, seeing Gallagher-Iba like wrestling head coach without a game, because John Smith. they could focus on what Some students said the arena looked like. the experience was unlike “The arena was reany other. Although some ally cool,” Luke Sugden, students may not have a British student in the experienced the football Global Scholars program, games, but they said they said. “I wish I had the were honored to walk on chance to take a shot in the field. the court because that would have been entertainment.ed@ocolly.com

Nic...

Continued from 1A “Unfortunately, half of my stay here has been during COVID,” Girolamo said. “But, I like Stillwater because it’s very easy to do things. In Italy, I would have to drive 30 or 40 minutes to do anything, and there is a lot of traffic and stress. Not so much here.”

When Girolamo was younger, he decided he wanted to become a veterinarian after a life-changing experience.

“There was a moment when I saw a dog pass out in front of me in Italy, and I really wanted to take care of him,” Girolamo said. “I knew I wanted to do something to help.”

As a teenager, Girolamo had an interest in exotic animals, particularly snakes. Instead of these reptiles scaring or intimidating him, Girolamo felt at ease working with them. This carried into his profession, as he accepted the job to work with exotic animals at OSU in 2018.

At the hospital, Girolamo said his most complex patients to work with are tortoises.

“Having the shell makes everything more difficult,” Girolamo said. “They look like dinosaurs from the past, they are really cool animals.”

In the last couple of years, Girolamo said one of his favorite patients is a pigeon with a rare hyperthyroid disease.

“The disease the pigeon had was the first ever described,” Girolamo said. “We have been working with her, she’s a really cute pigeon and a fun patient.”

With the exception of the Oklahoma City Zoo, Girolamo said no other veterinary hospital in the state is certified to intake and treat exotic animals.

Girolamo said animals he and the other doctors treat typically come from Oklahoma, Arkansas and Texas, but could also come from anywhere in the U.S. Girolamo also works closely with students and interns who shadow him during procedures.

One graduate student, Marina Liles, is a zoological medicine intern who works closely with Girolamo. Liles helps take in cases, evaluates them with other students through physical examinations and makes a diagnostic and treatment plan best for the patient. “[Girolamo] is determined and knowledgable,” Liles said. “Regardless of how erratic a day has been, if something needs to get done, he will make sure it gets done in a timely manner. If I’m doing surgery, he provides critiques to make it easier for me the next time.”

In the future, Liles intends to become board certified in the American College of Psychological Medicine. Liles said getting to work on cases with Girolamo has been beneficial.

“Being able to see these weird cases, as well as routine cases that you should know how to treat in practice is very valuable,” Liles said.

In 2017, Girolamo created an Instagram, @nic_ the.animal.doctor to share his expertise about exotic animals, interesting cases and cute animal pictures.

Girolamo said he started with a small Instagram following, but has now amassed more than 67,000 followers.

In 2019, he created a TikTok, @nic_the.animal. doc, that has acquired more than 66,000 followers.

Students can follow Girolamo’s social medias to view his adventures with animals.

“With Instagram and TikTok, I can reach potentially thousands of owners at the same time,” Girolamo said. “In one hour, maybe you can teach something to people that helps them take better care of their pets.”

All Photos Courtesy of Dr. Nicola Di Girolamo

news.ed@ocolly.com

Dr. Nicola Di Girolamo uses his Instagram and TikTok to share photos and educate others about common illnesses in exotic animals.

Page 6A Friday, March 11, 2022

Lifestyle/News

O’Colly

Top 5 ‘Scream Queens’ in film

Courtesy of Tribune News Service Nev Campbell stars in “Scream” as one of the biggest scream queens on this list

Jaden Besteda Staff Reporter

The term “Scream Queens” has evolved over time. Much like the horror genre itself, looking for not only the best scream and frightened face, but who can act the best and can carry a film or possible horror franchise. This list encompasses the top five scream queens in horror. The list was compiled based on their resume, acting ability and quality of work.

No. 5 Chloe Grace Mortez~ Mortez made a name for herself as the go-to horror kid when she first started. Starring in “The Amityville Horror,” “Wicked Little Things,” “Let Me In” and “Carrie.” She’s branched out into different roles as she’s gotten older, but it’s hard to imagine she’d be as big as she is now without becoming a scream queen first.

No. 4 Sara Paulson ~ Who’s the first person you think of when it comes to “American Horror Story?”

It’s Probably Sara Paulson.

She’s been a staple in the longest-running horror fran-

chise for nine seasons now and was even in the hit Netflix properties “Bird Box” and the TV series “Ratched.”

Paulson’s ability to lead and still be sometimes frightening has made her a recognizable face in the horror industry.

No. 3 Sara Michelle Gellar ~ “Buffy The Vampire Slayer” is obviously one of the most iconic shows of all time, so Gellars’ place on the list should be no surprise.

She also starred in “I Know What You Did Last Summer,” “Scream 2” and “The Grudge.” In the end, Buffy ended up being one of the most well-rounded characters in TV history in part due to Gellars’ talent.

No. 2 Jamie Lee Curtis ~ Jamie Lee Curtis. Arguably the face of horror for a period of time. Known for her feud with Micheal Myers and the strong character of Laurie Strode, Jamie became the star of “The Fog,” “Prom Night,” “Halloween II,” “Halloween H20,” TV series “Scream Queens” and of course, the newest Halloween films to show down with her nemesis and end it

for good. Jamie Lee Curtis is probably the most recognizable face in horror because she’s so linked with Myers and will end up being known for just that. Her acting ability and longevity gives her the no. 2 spot on the list.

No. 1 Nev Campbell ~ Much like Myers torments Laurie, Ghostface has been tormenting Nev Campbells Sydney Prescott for years.

Nev Campbell hasn’t had any major horror roles besides “Scream,” and yet she earns the top spot because of the longevity and content of her iconic character. There is no “Scream” franchise without Nev Campbell, and given it’s already five movies in with three seasons of an inspired TV show, that’s a really impressive accomplishment.

Women are one of the most powerful features in movies everywhere, but some bring the scare factor more than others. Whether these women act in more shows, it is clear that their names are here to stay.

entertainment.ed@ocolly.com

Courtesy of SGA

SGA delays election SGA elections are postponed and a election violation trial will begin after spring break.

submitted to the SGA Attorney General.

Sydney Adkins and Trevor Woodburn were asked to provide information to verify votes, campaign Teyte Holcomb documents and other Lifestyle Editor materials used for the 2022 election.

Earlier in the week, an official Thursday, SGA press release from members and OSU OSU’s SGA detailed students gathered to the postponing and discuss accounts of violations of the elecelection violations tion. The release also

by SGA presidential stated that while no and vice-presidential specific timeline is candidates. stated within the SGA Originally Bylaws, the situation scheduled on Tuesday, will be handled in a elections were soon timely manner. postponed after an Shortly after election violation was deliberation began,

Adkins motioned to propose that the trial be moved to after spring break. The committee approved the motion, and no further deliberation was discussed.

SGA media coordinator Austin Dedmon released a statement saying while no date has been set, the committee plans to meet after spring break to continue the trial.

news.ed@ocolly.com

O’Colly

Friday, March 11, 2022 Page 7A

News

Raising awareness

Oklahoma citizens gathered in Oklahoma City for People With Disabilities Awareness Day Jaiden Daughty In 2016, Taylor’s relocated to the north wing of the Nancy Randolph building.

Taylor’s...

Continued from 4A

Courtesy of Shannon Holcomb Individuals arrived to network and advocate for the disability community at the Oklahoma History Center.

Kaylie Sequira Staff Reporter Tuesday, more than 70 disability-centered exhibitors tabled at the Oklahoma History Center in Oklahoma City from noon to 4 p.m. for the 27th annual People With Disabilities Awareness Day. Individuals showed up to network with these exhibitors and advocate for the disability community.

Shannon Holcomb, executive director of the Oklahoma Bios Corporation, gave insight into what the event was for.

“It is really our time to show up in big numbers and advocate with our legislators for services that are needed,” Holcomb said. “In particular, Oklahoma is one of the lowest paid states for direct support professionals. Right now, if you are a direct support professional working with someone with a disability, you probably make somewhere between $10 and $12 an hour.”

Direct support professionals are responsible

for assisting patients with various needs including checking blood glucose levels, monitoring blood pressure, giving proper medication, inserting feeding tubes and helping with hygiene needs.

Holcomb said she feels passionately about this need for a wage increase. Bios Corporation participated in ways to advocate for this at the event.

“We did a letter writing campaign,” Holcomb said. “We also had a couple of our legislators from the Creek County area come over and take pictures as we had a moment to speak with them.”

Vendors at this event raised awareness on social media by sharing the hashtag PWDAD2022.

Oklahoma Rep. Mark Lawson said he is thankful for the people at Bios Corp. who encourage their clients to advocate for themselves.

“People With Disabilities Awareness Day provides an opportunity for individuals with disabilities to share their stories and talk about

their needs,” Lawson said.

“We have thousands of individuals with disabilities who have been waiting for services for over 13 years.

I’ve dedicated my time at the capitol to eliminate this wait by providing services to all who qualify.”

Lawson also said that he serves as a state representative only because the people of House District 30 have trusted him with the position.

“Any time they travel to Oklahoma City, I will make myself available to them,” Lawson said.

Lawson said the wonderful people at Bios deserve all the credit for making the event a success.

People With Disabilities Awareness Day is an annual event in Oklahoma City where citizens can show advocacy for higher wages and increased care. For more information on People With Disabilities Awareness Day, visit okdrs.gov/ pwdad/2022. news.ed@ocolly.com

“We focus on the business of hospitality,” Thapa said. “These students are adept to be owners, entrepreneurs, leaders, decision makers.

They learn how to cook, but this program is not a cooking school.”

In addition to the name change, four specializations were included in the program: event planning, lodging studies, food studies and beverage management.

“We’re looking for future leaders in the business of hospitality, which can be event planners, wine distributors, hotel managers, any job in that area,” Thapa said. “Taylor’s is central to that mission by giving an applied experience. You become a better manager or owner by cleaning tables and washing dishes.”

In 1990, Taylor’s restaurant was opened on the second floor of Human Science West. The same year, the program started hosting distinguished chef events. Twice a semester, world-class chefs from all over the world visit OSU’s campus, giving students the opportunity to work alongside them and host a formal dinner.

“Being a part of the HTM program has really changed my outlook on life,” Celecia Price, a sophomore, said. “It’s almost like I have found my people. Hospitality in general has always been

something I’ve been good at and having almost free reign over all of this knowledge and opportunity has been very eyeopening.”

In 2016, Taylor’s relocated to the north wing of the Nancy Randolph building. A mahogany wood panel from the previous Taylor’s location sets in the center of the restaurant, with “Taylor’s” engraved in the glass.

“Alumni who come in would say, ‘Oh, I remember that,’” Cochran said. “It’s nice to have a touch of the old location, something that has stayed the same all this time.”

In October, the Made in Oklahoma Coalition named Taylor’s the Restaurant of the Month.

The OSU School of Hospitality and Tourism Management is also ranked 13th in the nation for hospitality management, according to collegerank. net.

Silvio Ceschini, instructor of professional practice in the department, said the connection students make in the industry is one reason the program is successful.

“We’re producing leaders for the future,” Ceschini said. “We are constantly addressing the needs of what the new leaders in the industry will be looking for in three, four years and what we should do in order to facilitate that transition.”

Since 1956, the program hosts a Career Fair event, “Hospitality Days.” At this event, students have the chance to connect with successful alumni and industry professionals.

Cochran said he is proud of the change and growth each student experiences throughout the program.

“I feel like I’ve got 200 kids I’m going to lose every year,” Cochran said.

“You work with them so closely, and you see them transform from a mischievous freshman to a mature adult that knows what they want to do. And I love that.”

Mallory King, a senior, is planning on interning at a Hilton Hotel in New York City this summer after graduation. Although she looks forward to the future, she will miss the memories she made with her peers in the program.

“HTM has really become my family at OSU,” King said. “The students and professors spend a lot more time with each other than in the average major.

The greatest impact I’ve received is these relationships.”

Students can use their meal plans or bursar at Taylor’s and reservations are recommended.

Taylor’s is open Tuesday through Friday 11 a.m.2 p.m. and the weekly schedule and menu are available on business. okstate.edu.

“I have four incredible years of hospitality experience to carry on with me into my future career,” King said. “Each of these educators care about us students as individuals and try to connect with us beyond just the curriculum, which I feel is really the essence of hospitality.

It’s truly a special program.” news.ed@ocolly.com

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Page 8A Friday, March 11, 2022

7th Graders...

O’Colly

News

Continued from 1A As a child, Allen wanted a Call of Duty video game. He accepted his parents’ offer to clean his family’s house for enough cash to buy it. It took him about a month. This type of saving and planning are part of the financial literacy curriculum Allen is helping teach the children.

Some seventh graders practice saving but are unsure what happens next.

Reagan Bell, 13, learned about percentages in her general math class, but the financial literacy program helped her understand where to use it.

The second week of the program used a simulation, helping the seventh graders see and practice managing money through percentages.

Reagan had a challenging start with the simulation, playing a character named “Enzo.” Saving $50,000 for “Enzo” to perform magic in Las Vegas was her goal.

“I did it one time, and then I got fired,” Reagan said. “The second time I made it to Las Vegas, but I didn’t have enough money. I was a just a couple of thousand short.”

In reality, Reagan’s grasp of financial literacy made it possible for her to plan on a school trip to Germany.

Her mom, Tracy Bell, opened an account for Reagan when Reagan was 6 weeks old. The account holds 13 years of financial gifts for special occasions such as birthdays, which Tracy has tried to teach Reagan to be responsible with.

“Even to this day when we go shopping, she says to me,‘Is that a want or a need?’” Tracy said.

Tracy Bell, a sixth grade math teacher at Stillwater Middle School, said when she heard the financial literacy project was happening, she was thrilled.

She said students in middle school should know value of money and responsibility of not always wanting.

The middle schoolers took the opportunity during the project to ask the college students about bankruptcy, credit scores and mortgages.

Some banks in Oklahoma offer special accounts for youths. Students might open an account before learning how make the best of it or understanding what dangers exist.

Krisen Cloud, Exchange Bank’s retail manager, had to tell a college student he would have to wait to open his first bank account when he presented her with a fraudulent check.

File Photo Oklahoma State University accounting students designed a financial literacy curriculum to help Stillwater High School students.

The student was doing remote work for someone in Houston. He received the bogus check in the mail for work he did. Cloud noticed the business had an address in Ohio, but the check’s banking address was in Florida.

“You’re telling someone who just did legitimate work and has been talking to someone over the phone for the past week or two that what you just did isn’t legit,” Cloud said.

Cloud offered to call the bank named on the check to convince the student it was fake, though she said she was certain it was. She oversees setting up accounts for people younger than 18 and is familiar with many red flags.

She said it is common for her younger clients to share online banking information, leading to a bank statement full of illegal charges. Hard lessons, such as these, can be avoided through education.

Allen and his peers knew translating college financial teachings would be necessary for the seventh graders to understand.But preparing to teach a middle school class turned out to be a lesson for Allen and his peers as well.

“I wouldn’t necessarily say we were dumbing it down, but we were just making the information relatable to their own experiences,” Allen said.

Education goes both ways in the project.

In addition to adjusting the vocabulary, the college students tried to design the program with diverse financial statuses in mind. One child might be accustomed to his or her family making choices about large amounts of money, and another child might belong to a household living paycheck to paycheck.

For Cain, the project expanded her knowledge of different values within a

personal budget and financial situations.

“One in five Americans don’t have any savings for retirement,” Cain said. “It’s sad kind of sad to think that people don’t see that long term affect until it hits them.”

Although children about 12 are unlikely to understand this entirely, Cain said her group wanted to make a point the journey to financial freedom begins now.

The need for financial literacy is obvious to the accounting students, but Rachel Domnick, OSU’s instructor of professional practice, wanted to fulfill a need for the accounting students.

“This interest became more prevalent for me in the fall when our students were experiencing mental health, the feeling of burn out or imposter syndrome,” Domnick said.

The students could instead focus on things such as professional development, training skills and contributing to the community.

Domnick created a list of possible projects, but the accounting students researched and decided on financial literacy. Kinsey, Cain and Sutter received full autonomy to design the curriculum, and Domnick and Angela Spencer, accounting professor, played adviser roles.

The remaining accounting students were worried and nervous at first.

A teaching role was new to some of them.

“Middle school kids, they’re intimidating,” Allen said. “I don’t know why.”

Stillwater seventh graders study percentages, discounts, fees and taxes, but there is no financial literacy course.

Oklahoma requires it for high school students. The financial literacy project forms a connection between topics math

teachers currently cover and actual application.

The success of this project might give students something to build on before high school and after graduation, Zimmerman said.

Although Jan. 24 went as planned, the Jan. 26 and Jan. 28 presentations were canceled because of severe winter weather. Stillwater Middle School closed for the day, along with many other businesses and institutions.

“It was a little bit of a panic, but we did nail down a plan before anything was canceled,” Kinsey said.

A virtual presentation was created for students attending class online. That presentation was offered to students who missed because of the snow days.

During the second week, the college students provided a recap to those seventh graders before moving on to the simulation game.

The simulation is a significant part of the project, satisfying the need to keep the seventh graders engaged. In addition, the students received candy and printouts to take home.

Cain created the printouts to potentially generate conversation and awareness at home.

If successful in making an impact, both schools are open to revisiting the financial literacy project again in the future.

Responses to the launch Jan. 24 suggests the project made the impact accounting students hopedfor. As Allen was packing to leave, he listened to children discussing the experience.

“I overheard one of them say, ‘I know. I actually learned something,’” Allen said. “I was over the moon.” news.ed@ocolly.com

Pini silently off to undefeated start Jax Tompson Staff Reporter The buzz of the crowd fills the Greenwood Tennis Center.

The shouts of satisfaction

and frustration from the players echo around the enclosed space as the hometown Cowboys face the Texas-Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros. The characteristic grunts associated with the sport add to the ensemble.

Amid the fervor, all the way on the end of the building, a match takes place in relative calm. With six matches on six courts, all taking place at the same time, keeping track of all of

them is nearly impossible, and the attention of the crowd is drawn to the courts with the most commotion.

But as the matches continue, and people glance across the scores posted on the walls above the courts, court No. 5 starts to stick out.

Two games to nothing. Four games to nothing. Six games to nothing.

See Pini on 3B

Courtesy of OSU Athletics OSU coach Dustin Taylor has named player Francisco Pini the “quiet assassin.”

Littell era continues with win over Tech Ben Hutchens Staff Reporter

Going the distance File Photo

Taylor Roe, a distance runner at OSU, will compete for a national championship in the 3,000-meter in Birmingham, Alabama, on Friday.

Roe chasing after national title

He was one of many coaches who recruited Roe in high school.

Roe dominated in her sophomore year at Lake Stevens, bursting on the scene with blistering Sam Hutchens in the 800, 1,600 Assistant Sports Editor times and 3,200-meter runs. But after she was crowned the Taylor Roe loses 2016-17 Washington Gatrack of her trophies. torade Player of the Year, She thinks some, things soured. like her 2016-17 Wash“She had a really, ington Gatorade Track & really good sophomore Field Player of the Year year in high school and trophy, are buried in a then kind of struggled her box at her parents’ house. junior year,” Smith said.

She doesn’t display the Smith said slumps ones she has in Stillwater, happen to a lot of runners instead exiling the hardwho are successful early. earned shiny décor to Body chemistry changes the original packaging it in high school, and he came in. said puberty can disrupt “I try not to put athletic performance. them out,” Roe said. “I’ve There was also the mental got to stay humble and side. Instead of running in hungry. I kind of hide anonymity, Roe drew atsome stuff away.” tention. Coaches sporting It’s not something the gear of the best track she expected to have to programs in the country do. Roe, after all, a junior came to meets. cross country star at OSU, Except after her didn’t expect to get many down junior year, the trophies. once-interested coaches “I knew that I strayed. wanted to contribute to “I think (Roe) was the team,” Roe said. “I heavily pursued by all the thought… I don't want to top programs in the counsay middle of the pack… try after her sophomore But I didn't think I would year, and then people kind be standing out.” of cooled their heels on Coach Dave Smith, her after her junior year,” the Oklahoma State DiSmith said. rector of XC/T&F, thought But thanks in part the same thing. to a conversation Smith

had with his friend Greg Metcalf, the Washington track and field coach, OSU stuck with Roe. “(Metcalf) gave me the advice to stick with her,” Smith said. “She’s going to be really good.

His promise to me was, ‘If she gets to your program, she’ll be an All-American by her sophomore year.’”

The girl who just wanted to be a contributor at OSU didn’t meet Metcalf’s prediction. She exceeded it.

Not only was Roe an All-American her sophomore year, she also finished the 2020 cross country season with a runner-up performance in the NCAA Cross Country Championship. Her resume is littered with first-team selections, and the adjective “superstar” is tossed about when describing her.

“She has way exceeded even my most outrageous hopes for her in the beginning,” Smith said.

Roe’s recipe is simple. She works hard, and Smith said she runs because she loves it, and not for a college scholarship or professional contract.

“It's being happy with what you're doing, like being grateful,” Roe said. “But then also just

having perspective of reaching beyond it. Not being complacent with where you're at.”

Roe could have slowed down when she cemented a spot as a contributor at OSU. Instead, she has her sights set on the thing that just alluded her last year.

“I've not won a national title,” Roe said.

“That’s definitely a goal of mine.”

On Friday, in Birmingham, Alabama, Roe will compete in the 3,000-meter national championship. Her chance to win a national title.

“If you think about the 3,000, I think there's more than 2,000 athletes in Division I who have attempted that event this year,” Smith said. “And only the top 16 get to go to the national championships.”

The competition is fierce, but Smith said he thinks Roe has as good a chance as any runner. “(Winning a national championship) motivates me more and more now, because it's been a huge transition in my mindset from my freshman year where all I wanted to do was be good enough to be on my team,” Roe said.

sports.ed@ocolly.com

On the Cowgirls playing hard under the circumstances: “Here for another day, here for another day.

I’m proud of our kids, they showed tremendous heart. I’m happy for our fans that they get to watch our kids another game and just so happy for our kids.”

“A lot of character by our team, they were very resilient this week, prepared well. Couldn’t be more happy. This game meant more. This game meant more.”

Guards Lexy Keys and Lauren Fields were the first players to speak publicly following Littell’s firing.

Keys on playing basketball with the emotions of everything going on: “I think it’s safe to say emotions have been everywhere. Shocked.

You have to gather yourself. And then to go and play in a tournament, that means a lot.”

Fields on playing basketball with the emotions of everything going on: “Emotions were everywhere. We were all shocked at first, and I think our main focus going into this game was making sure we get another win for Coach Littell.”

Jim Littell addressed the full media for the first time since he was fired Monday.

Littell, OSU’s women’s basketball coach, spoke in a press conference following OSU’s 73-58 win against Texas Tech in the first round of the Big 12 Tournament. The victory extends Littell’s time coaching the Cowgirls, who will play Baylor on Friday at 1:30 p.m.

Littell spoke exclusively to The O’Colly earlier in the week and had more thoughts after Thursday’s win.

On how emotional the last few days have been for him: “Well, it’s been emotional. We’ve been at Oklahoma State 17 years. My daughter, who’s in the room, and my wife, who’s in the room right now, our kids have grown up with the majority of their life in Stillwater. So, it’s been an emotional time. And I thank everybody for the support that we’ve had, and it’s time to move onto Baylor.” sports.ed@ocolly.com

Courtesy of Big 12 Media Oklahoma State coach Jim Littell is not returning as coach of the Cowgirls next season, but will continue coaching after OSU’s win.

What’s Inside

Augmented reality Page 3B

Brown using hitting simulation to improve at-bats.

One word Page 4B

86 friends, family and competitors describe Sutton ahead of his birthday.

Finding Momentum Page 8B

Surber surging ahead of NCAA Wrestling Championships.

Page 2B Friday, March 11, 2022

O’Colly

sports

Reality check

Brown uses virtual reality to improve hitting Adam Engel Staff Reporter

Abby Cage Diamond Dolls, a volunteer group, has helped OSU baseball since the 1960s.

Diamond Dolls crucial to Cowboys Daniel Allen Staff Reporter

One of the best hidden features of O’Brate Stadium isn’t the scoreboard.

Few realize the hard work put into providing in-game information and pregame accessories for the players.

Enter the Diamond Dolls.

The exact inception date is unknown, but the group dates back to the 1960s. OSU’s Diamond Dolls have been a volunteer group for Cowboy baseball for over half a century.

Dressed in button down jerseys, identical to the newly reinstated pinstripe uniforms, the Diamond Dolls can be seen in front of the home plate gates all the way to the concourse area behind the batter’s eye, handing out game programs to fans for little charge.

“We appreciate them supporting us,” OSU coach Josh Holliday said. “They work every game, they always show support to the team. They’re obviously service groups here on campus here that love baseball, and it’s always a great thing to be supported by (the student body).”

They’re a hidden gem for the team, a backbone in preparing players pregame goodie baskets and motivational messages, particularly for road games.

While their rapport with the players and coaches may be smaller than one would imagine, the Diamond Dolls still serve a vital role in preparing the first pitch banquet; a renowned event within the baseball program that serves as an opportunity to introduce the players and coaching staff to donors and fans of Cowboy baseball.

“It’s kind of like a baseball sorority,” freshman Cassidy Raley said. “It’s basically a group of girls who you can go enjoy a baseball game with. I know for me it’s given me countless opportunities to meet new girls and build relationships, so outside of just watching baseball in general I’d say that’s the best part about it.”

For members like Raley, it’s an opportunity

to remain close to a game they’ve grown up around, a game they’ve enjoyed for most of their lives, with other women who have also grown up around the sport.

Raley, like most other members, has been accustomed to the sport since a young age. She says getting to see her brother play college baseball brought her closer to the game and made her love it even more.

“I think that’s how it is for most of us,” Raley said.

“We’ve just loved watching baseball since we were little, all for various reasons of course. It’s just a chance to stay closer to (baseball) as we start to grow up more.”

Jeriana Jones, a senior, has been a member of the Diamond Dolls since her freshman year, when the Cowboys still played at Allie P. Reynolds Stadium.

During every game at Allie P., Jones and her fellow Diamond Dolls would hang up “K” signs along the top of the stadium every time an OSU pitcher would record a strikeout. Since transitioning to O’Brate Stadium, the tradition has been picked up by fraternities or sororities residing in the right field stands.

“It stinks because (hanging up K signs) was one of my favorite traditions to be honest,” Jones said. “A lot has been limited due to COVID and adjusting to the new stadium. But we’re trying to bring a lot back, like throwing shirts during home runs and other cool things.”

Jones says the interaction between current and past Diamond Dolls is and always will be one of the most special parts about the group.

Seeing the expressions of excitement on the faces of past members knowing that the tradition is being carried on brings a sense of accomplishment to current members of the organization.

“I’ll constantly see an older lady come up to one of us and say, ‘Hey I was a Diamond Doll,’” Jones said.

“And it’s so special to see. I don’t even know who these people, who these ladies are, but keeping what these older ladies put a lot of time into this organization, going is pretty special to be a part of.” sports.ed@ocolly.com

Marcus Brown hits batting practice in his living room.

Wherever he is, as long there’s room to roam, he can blast 400-foot home runs. Virtually.

Brown, OSU’s sophomore shortstop, can roll out of bed and strap on an Oculus headset, thanks to an NIL deal from Win Reality, a hitting simulation program. Brown and dozens of high-end Division 1 programs have benefited from the program.

It’s a tool he uses during the winters, maintaining momentum when he’s not near O’Brate Stadium.

Through Win Reality and a strong summer in the Appalachian League, Brown has emerged as one of OSU’s top hitters.

“He cares deeply about the team and doing his part to help the team win,” coach Josh Holliday said. “It’s always good to see guys with a great attitude and a great work ethic find success.”

It started with a direct message to Brown. Now, he’s an ambassador for the brand.

“It’s a service that shows a pitcher throwing to you and it’s showing their whole arsenal,” Brown said. “You can customize what the pitcher is gonna be throwing so it’s good. I can get live at bats in my living room.”

As a younger hitter, Brown takes extra steps to prepare for experienced arms.

“I can start to see guys who are in college currently and see shape, spin and really work on getting timed up and all that stuff,” he said.

A defensive playmaking shortstop, he spends hundreds of hours retooling his offense.

“He’s always in the

Abby Smith After signing an NIL deal with Win Reality, a hitting simulation program, OSU shortstop Marcus Brown has improved his swing.

cages,” Jake Thompson, OSU’s first baseman said. “Every time I come in even for treatment or if I got something going on early, he’s in the cage working.”

Thompson jokes that Brown sleeps in the batting cage.

But while slumps are typical in baseball, confidence remains key for Brown. And with a strong performance toward the end of his freshman season, Brown carried momentum into the Appalachian League with the Elizabethon River Riders.

“I was able to go out there and have an extended year of more at bats and build off of

what I did here,” Brown said.

Fully entrenched in a new season, Brown continues to use Win Reality. It’s an individual practice in the ever-growing landscape of baseball technology. Analytics, biomechanics, and sabermetrics are now commonplace.

“I definitely think a lot of training stuff is gonna be going online,” he said. “A lot of the stuff that we do here might not be like that, but I know at the next level, a lot of that stuff is becoming more popular. There’s a lot more technology. Everything is evolving.” sports.ed@ocolly.com

Summer workouts paying dividends for Carwile Dean Ruhl Staff Reporter A nervous giggle escaped from Katelynn Carwile’s mouth.

“It is pretty good,” she said when asked how her day was going.

She leaned against the cream-colored wall in the OSU softball clubhouse. A sheepish grin crept from her face. During her first-ever press conference Tuesday, Carwile was noticeable shy and reserved.

If the mannerisms weren’t enough of an indication, Carwile, a sophomore from Purcell, assured everyone exactly what she was feeling.

“I’m nervous,” Carwile laughingly said.

Carwile’s timidness contradicts her demeanor on the softball diamond this season.

She has played in all but one game and started the past five, taking over for Hayley Busby in right field. Between consistently reaching base and diving outfield catches, Carwile has

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provided a spark for the Cowgirls’ lineup.

“I think for me it is just like staying within myself and just working hard every single day,” Carwile said.

The hard work started months ago in the blistering summer heat. After a freshman season with two hits in 11 atbats, Carwile was determined to make improvements.

This wasn’t high school softball. Adjustments to her timing and direction were needed. Carwile spent every day this summer at Cowgirl Stadium polishing her skills.

The day would start at 10 a.m. She spent the afternoons avoiding the heat in the indoor training center, working on machines to better understand the movement of pitches. For most of the summer, she worked alone. Toward the end of the break, outfielder Chelsea Alexander showed up.

The pair noticed a similarity.

“We honestly helped each other a lot,” Carwile said. “I

didn’t realize until working with her that we actually had some of the same things we needed to get better on. It was good seeing it on her and me having the same issues and then us working and talking through it together.”

Coach Kenny Gajewski noticed the extra effort Carwile was putting in. He recalls pulling assistant coach Jeff Cottrill aside, saying “She is trying to play here.” Months later, she is doing just that.

This past week, she hasstarted all five of the Cowgirls’ games. Carwile is batting .424 this season, and her 10 RBIs rank second on the team.

Gajewski said he gives younger players opportunities when starters aren’t taking advantage of theirs. Carwile has taken full advantage of hers.

“That is what it takes,” Gajewski said. “We need more kids that have that kind of mentality that will do anything to play, and she’s got that look in her eye that I love.” sports.ed@ocolly.com

O’Colly

Friday, March 11, 2022 Page 3B

sports

NCAA ban lingered on OSU Gabriel Trevino Staff Reporter Doomsday couldn’t have come at a more inopportune time.

Three days before OSU’s first game of the season, the NCAA came in with a haymaker.

In June 2020, the NCAA sanctioned OSU’s basketball program after concluding the investigation of the Lamont Evans bribery scandal. OSU appealed the sanctions, allowing it to participate in the 2021 NCAA Tournament.

Almost a year and a half after the initial decision, on Nov. 3, the NCAA rejected OSU’s appeal, banning the program from the 2022 postseason, along with other sanctions. After a four-year long process, the Cowboys were abruptly told they were unable to participate in the NCAA Tournament.

The news was broken, followed by a press conference with OSU athletic director Chad Weiberg and coach Mike Boynton, and an entire season for the Cowboys without a chance at the tournament.

Nov. 3 - Sanctions upheld against OSU

Chad Weiberg, OSU athletic director: To use this flawed and inconsistent process to take away the opportunity for postseason and the NCAA Tournament from student-athletes who had nothing to do with this case, proves to me that the national office has chosen to weaponize the NCAA Tournament. I have a deep and fundamental disagreement with the NCAA using the tournament in this way. It is further proof that the NCAA system is disconnected and broken.

Mike Boynton, OSU basketball coach: I am disappointed, disgusted, appalled and frustrated. Somewhere in Indianapolis a group of people are celebrating. Our players don’t deserve it and they shouldn’t have to do this.

(The NCAA appeals committee) slept well last night. They felt good about the work they did. While I explained to 17 kids that their dreams of playing in the NCAA this year couldn’t be realized. That’s shameful.

Moussa Cisse, OSU sophomore forward, via Twitter: Taking kids’ dreams away for something they didn’t (commit). I just don’t get it but we’re still locked in on the season.

Jay Bilas, ESPN college basketball analyst, via Twitter: This is so tone deaf and wrong by the NCAA. Inexcusable. The NCAA’s horrible reputation is well earned. The NCAA slapped unprecedented penalties on Oklahoma State, and Oklahoma State fully cooperated. The NCAA’s clear message? Don’t cooperate. Ever. The NCAA has earned its poor reputation.

Dick Vitale, ESPN college basketball analyst, via Twitter: Punishment laid out by the NCAA in regards to ex OSU men’s basketball assistant coach Lamont Evans was proper as he was responsible for the violations. Now to penalize ALL innocent parties by banning them from March Madness is totally UNFAIR. Fran Fraschilla, ESPN college basketball analyst, via Twitter:

he t t ou k c e Ch

Abby Cage After four years fighting the NCAA, OSU coach Mike Boynton (center) managed the fallout of sanctions throughout the season.

There’s no justification for this harsh penalty given the circumstances of the case. Worse, the lack of transparency by the NCAA enforcement arm gives us the sense that all of this is arbitrary based on the school involved. We are witnessing the beginning of the end.

Kevin Sweeney, SI NOW college basketball analyst, via Twitter: The Oklahoma State decision proves the NCAA is incompetent at enforcing rules. And the women’s NCAA Tournament fiasco proves it isn’t good at running championships.

Jon Rothstein, CBS Sports college basketball analyst, via Twitter: Multiple transfers committed to Oklahoma State this offseason. Now none of them can have an opportunity to play in the 2022 postseason. Completely unfair to them and ALL players in that program. A miscarriage of justice.

Nov. 5 - Postgame of OSU’s exhibition game vs.

UCO

Isaac Likekele, OSU senior guard: Coach B asked me after, ‘Do you have anything to say?’ and I didn’t say anything because I didn’t know what to say. I really didn’t process the situation. For them to be stripped of the opportunity and for me and (Bryce Williams) to be stripped of the opportunity it’s sad, but like I said all we do is continue to work.

Rondel Walker, OSU sophomore guard: I feel like we rally with each other. We all came in this year and our goal was Big 12 champions and the NCAA. Now our goal is to be outrighBig 12 champions with our record… At the end of the day, we’ve got each other.

At this point it is what it is and we can’t think too much about it, but

way! a e d i al H n i g i Or

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there’s definitely a chip on our shoulders. It’s not fair, it’s unjust but we have to take it and run with it.

Boynton: I do want to make one thing clear. At no point did I ever threaten anyone, nor encourage anybody (to) threaten, nor do I out anybody.

I read a statement from a publicly available document.

Jan. 26

Boynton: Struggles help us all grow. It’s a hard reality to accept. A lot of these guys don’t struggle before they get here. So this becomes the first opportunity for them to learn through adversity.

Jan. 31 - Two days after OSU’s 81-72 loss to Florida

Boynton: The story of this team has been their response to what happened to them. But this is life, and bad sh*t happens, you do not get to pout about it forever, then turn a team game into a game about me. This team has not accepted that they need each other.

Whether we are going to the tournament or not, you play to win. If winning is not priority No. 1, this is not a place where you are going to have success. That message has to be driven down, or at some point we will have a discussion whether this is the place for you.

They keep fighting each other for the slice of pizza with the most pepperonis on it instead of just taking a piece.

We can’t be mad that the other guy gets a couple more pepperonis on his slice.

We play like a team that’s looking over and saying, ‘Damn, my slice only has two pepperonis and his has six’ and, ‘Damn that’s kinda screwed up.’

Feb. 28

Bryce Williams, senior OSU guard: (The ban) had me sick to my stomach. It had me ready to go home and say, ‘What are we playing for?’ We didn’t do anything, it was heartbreaking. Looking back on it now, I don’t really care.

March 5 - Final game of the season

Avery Anderson II, father of Avery Anderson III: It’s a shame they don’t get to compete in the second part of the season. But you can only control what you can control.

Tracy Anderson, mother of Avery Anderson III: We got a Facetime call at about 11:30 at night. He was pretty disappointed.

Boynton: This should not be the end for them. They should have another opportunity to go and continue to compete.

Right now I feel bad for these kids, that’s just how I feel. I feel terrible for Ice (Likekele). He’s the only remaining person from his crew.

It really burned me to my core, that they don’t get an opportunity to go and finish this thing Thompson: We had our ups and we had our downs, but I think at the end of the day we stayed together all the way to the end Likekele: There will always be a what if (to this season). That’s life. The sad part is you won’t ever get to figure out, ‘what if?’ You just have to move on.

sports.ed@ocolly.com

Page 4B Friday, March 11, 2022

ONE Word

By Ashton Slaughter Staff Reporter

sports

8 Stan Clark: “Generous”

Eskimo Joe’s president

In advance of what would have been Eddie Sutton’s 86th birthday, we asked 86 folks who knew him Stephen Sutton: “Honorable” grandson best, or competed against him, for one word to describe OSU’s beDior Lowhorn: “Honest” loved former coach.

Sutton player

Elizabeth Cyr: “Charismatic”

friend of Patsy, Sutton’s wife

Daniel Bobik: “Masterful”

member of the 2004-05 Final Four team

Berry Tramel: “Communicator” The Oklahoman columnist

John Calipari: “Focused” Kentucky basketball coach

Scott Drew: “Tough” Baylor basketball coach

Leonard Hamilton: “Confident” Sutton assistant

Catherine Sutton: “Wise” granddaughter

Marilyn Middlebrook: “Loyal” OSU associate athletic director

Eric Musselman: “Genius”

Arkansas basketball coach

John Klein: “Passionate” former Tulsa World columnist

Doug Ogle: “Compassionate” former OSU managar

Scott Sutton: “Passionate” son

Craige Johnston: “Human” season ticket holder 25+ years

Seth Greenberg: “Competitive”

ESPN analyst

Kelly Kerr: “Perseverance” former Tulsa World photographer

Bob Huggins: “Competitive”

West Virginia coach

Maurice Baker: “Toughness” Sutton player

John Underwood: “Prepared” former Big 12 administrator

Roy Williams: “Passionate”

Alex Webber: “Patriarch” Sutton player

Jeff Goodman: “Underrated”

Stadium basketball analyst

Wally Hall: “Winner”

sports editor, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

Ron Holt: “Noteworthy”

former Stillwater News Press sports editor

Chad Weiberg: “Steadfast” OSU athletic director

O’Colly

former North Carolina coach

Mickey Michalec: “Scowl” friend of Scott Sutton

Geoff Haxton: “Father” Texas Tech announcer

Rick Barnes: “Memorable” Tennessee coach

David Hunziker: “Persistence” voice of OSU

Doug Gottlieb: “Go”

analyst, Sutton player

Bill Self: “Tough” Kansas basketball coach

Pete Derzis: “Teacher” former ESPN executive

Tom Dirato: “Friend” former OSU analyst

Micah McDade: “Nice” OSU superfan

6

O’Colly

Steve Kroner: “Accomplished” San Francisco Chronicle columnist

Friday, March 11, 2022 Page 5B

sports

Sydney Moncrief: “Focused”

NBA Hall of Famer, played under Sutton at Arkansas

Brian Montonati: “Caring” played under Sutton at OSU

Randy Rutherford: “Legacy” member of OSU 2004-05 Final Four team

Kim Sutton: “Patriarch” wife of Scott Sutton

Lon Kruger: “Competitive”

Brandi Simons: “Gracious” former Tulsa World photographer

Brian Davis: “Trusting” Austin-American Statesman reporter

Colin Johnston: “Stoic” former ball boy

Hallie Sutton: “Passionate” granddaughter

Dean Hadley: “Charismatic” played under Sutton at San Francisco

former Oklahoma basketball coach

Joe Lunardi: “Winner” ESPN bracketologist

Chris Theisen: “Teacher” OSU grad, KU communications

Coach K: “Lifer” Duke basketball coach

Barry Switzer: “Friend” former Oklahoma football coach

Steven Soza: “Teacher” former OSU manager

Mike Boynton: “Man” OSU basketball coach

Kendria Cost: “Beloved”

chair for Coaches vs. Cancer

Kerry Keating: “Caring” former Santa Clara basketball coach

Joe Kleine: “Caring” Sutton player at Arkansas

Tom Shatel: “Underrated”

Omaha World-Herald columnist

Dick Weiss: “Old-school” sports columnist

Tim Allen: “Respect”

former OSU sports information director

Harry Birdwell: “Unforgettable” former OSU athletic director

Manny Quezada: “Intense” played under Sutton at San Francisco

Rob Evans: “Wise” former Sutton assistant

Kelvin Sampson: “Influencer” Houston basketball coach

Parker Sutton: “Proud” grandson

Jimmy Nickles: “Father” former OSU manager

Larry Reece: “Teacher” OSU PA announcer

Mike Simpson: “Leadership” former OSU basketball manager

Jenni Carlson: “Impactful” Oklahoman columnist

Jimmie Tramel: “Human” Tulsa World columnist

Sherri Coale: “Crafty” former OU women’s basketball coach

Eric Reveno: “Inspiring” Georgia Tech basketball assistant

Billy Gillispie: “Visionary” Tarleton State basketball coach

Dave Sittler: “Tough” former Tulsa World columnist

Billy Collier: “Cowboy” former Nebraska basketball coach

Karen Hancock: “Coach” OSU women’s soccer assistant

Bill Haisten: “Complex” Tulsa World columnist

Kerry Alexander: “Demanding” “Remember the 10 Run” founder

Dennis Cyr: “Mentor”

swim teacher to Sutton’s grandchildren

Paul Graham: “Awesome”

Tim Jankovich: “Amazing”

Greg Swaim: “Transforming”

Tom Hankins: “Genuine”

Mike Gundy: “Loyal”

Sutton assistant

Mike Noteware: “Dedication”

Darrell Walker: “Damn-good”

former Sutton assistant

radio talk show host

OSU football coach

former OSU sports information director

Sutton assistant

former Oral Roberts basketball assistant

James Dickey: “Maximize”

Sutton player at Arkansas

Page 6B Friday, March 11, 2022

Pini...

Continued from 1B

O’Colly

sports improve his game, but Pini was driven by his goals. That’s still true today, whether he’s in practice or playing a match.

“Before going on the court I think about my goals, of being a major league player and all that I want to achieve,” Pini said. “I motivate myself by saying, ‘If I want to be a really good player, then today I really need to beat this guy.’”

Finding a way Sometimes, Pini doesn’t have his best.

That means it became necessary to develop strategies to help him focus or relax when he’s feeling off. Pini even admits to resorting to superstitions at times. For instance, if you were to ask him what his long-term goals are, he’ll shy away from getting too specific so that he can avoid the dreaded jinx. But that superstition has waned over the years, thanks in part to another lesson from Varela.

Back in high school, his reliance on superstitions got so bad that Varela had had enough. He told him to do every little routine and arrange all his gear just how he thought he needed to in order to guarantee a win, and then they’d play a match.

“He kicked my ass,” Pini said.

“And from that day on, he told me that there’s no superstitions. You just play your game and if you win you win, and if you lose you lose.”

He still has routines, but now they’re there to help him focus. He likes to set his water bottles facing a certain way (labels away from the court), put his towel in just the right spot, maybe shake his racquet a few times before heading on court.

During the match, when he is in a tight game or things aren’t going well, he tries to slow things down. In between points he’ll go to his towel for a little longer than usual, try to relax and focus on breathing. During play, he likes to drag out points a little more and play more conservative. He knows he can fall back on his practice and conditioning, try to outlast his opponent.

And if none of that’s working, he has a solid backup plan.

“I try to look outside the court, try to relax and think of things that make me happy, like sometimes my dogs; they are a huge motivation for me,” Pini said.

The result of his goals, years of work and routine is a self-motivated, confident and level-headed Pini. He’s got the kind of confidence that isn’t trying to prove something, that came about naturally from years of putting in his best effort.

He is realistic about his game and knows he won’t always have his best stuff. He also knows he can win a lot of matches regardless.

“He is pretty quiet, very professional. He is one of the hardest working guys I’ve had on a college team,” Taylor says.

And on days when Pini is playing good, he is a force to reckon with. If the guy across the net doesn’t pay attention they’ll turn around and be down a game.

Then they’ll be down three games. A set.

And then the match is over, another win for Pini, the quiet assassin.

Without much notice, OSU’s Francisco Pini has won the first set in a best two-out-of-three. So quickly, the other matches are still in the middle of the first set. So quietly, the people in attendance hardly noticed until it was over.

The next set begins, more of the same. Pini takes the first game.

One game to nothing. Three games to nothing. Five games to nothing.

Pini’s opponent, Te Kani Williams, wins his lone game. Too little too late. Pini takes the match, 6-0, 6-1, and walks to the net to shake his opponent’s hand without so much as a cheer of triumph. He quickly begins watching and supporting his teammates as they finish their matches.

Business as usual for the freshman, who’s now 10-0 in singles for the season.

“He is a bit of a quiet assassin,” Cowboy coach Dustin Taylor said.

The right way Pini played rugby and soccer growing up in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Tennis didn’t enter his mind until one day, when he was around 6 years old, he found one of his dad’s old rackets and started messing around with it. His dad, Enrique, took notice, and offered to teach his son the game.

He was hooked.

Pini’s dad, as well as his mom, Soledad, contributed a lot to where he is today as a person and player. They did their best to push their son without putting too much pressure on him. They impressed on him the importance of hard work and effort.

“I think that my parents were the best parents growing up,” Pini said.

“They were always supportive and the only condition they put on me if I wanted to play any sport, not just tennis, was that I needed to give my best.”

He didn’t, and doesn’t, take that expectation lightly. Doing his best isn’t just a goal to strive for, it’s a responsibility. That mindset has gotten him to the college level of tennis, and it’s why he can dream of going even further.

“He doesn’t give away anything for free. There’s no free points with Francisco,” Taylor said.

But even the best of us can have bad days. Something Pini says he’s struggled with in the past is letting his life off the court affect his practice. A rare occurrence, his parents did their best to make sure of that, but it has happened.

Luckily, his coach growing up, Diego Varela, echoed his parents’ sentiments about doing his best and putting in the work.

Once in high school, he was in a funk at practice, one of the few times he wasn’t giving his all. Varela noticed and stopped practice right then and there. What was the point of practicing for hours if Pini wasn’t going to do it the right way?

“He was so hard on me,” Pini said. “But to this day I still appreciate what he did for me.”

It wasn’t always easy, sacrificing sports.ed@ocolly.com so much time and effort to train and

COLLEGE MEDIA MADNESS 2022

What is college media madness?

WHAT IS OUR GOAL?

HOW CAN YOU DONATE?

Courtesy of OSU Athletics OSU tennis player Francisco Pini has started the season undefeated.

Questions? Please contact marketing@ocolly.com

O’Colly

Friday, March 11, 2022 Page 7B

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Daily Horoscope

Edited by Rich Norris and Joyce Lewis

ACROSS 1 “‘And hast thou __ the Jabberwock?’”: Carroll 6 Steady guy 10 Event involving hidden matzo 15 Shell material 16 Loads 17 Horror film burden 18 *Crèche, for example?

21 Geode feature, perhaps 22 Dressed 23 Current type 26 *Recent president scrutinizing a book on jurisprudence?

34 Grammy-winning pianist Peter 35 2020 N.L. batting champ Juan 36 “Sula” author Morrison 37 “That describes me, right?”

40 Paradise 42 *Animal rights goal in the Andes?

47 Sugar suffix 48 Clear thought 49 Spirit that’s also a game 50 “Molto __”: “Very good” 52 Trough fill 53 Huge amounts 54 Altered, in a way ... and a hint to the org. that helped create the answers to starred clues 59 Plain 62 Soviet-born ballet immortal 66 Broad-topped trees 67 Catch 68 Safekeeping 69 Poker-faced DOWN 1 ’60s civil rights gp. inspired by student sit-ins 2 Lion player Bert

3/11/22

By Jeffrey Wechsler

3 “__ in the Dark”: 1988 Neill/Streep film 4 Bearded bloom 5 Iced drink brand 6 Irish liqueur made by an English company 7 LAX stat 8 Chicago’s __ Center 9 Experience 10 Really burn 11 Catalan cash 12 Colorless 13 Girl in a Salinger title 14 Curl up with a good book, say 19 Story 20 D.C. part?: Abbr.

24 AFL partner 25 Blasted stuff 26 Out working 27 Puzzle 28 Ascended 29 __ Blanc 30 Shorthand for unlisted items 31 Romanticsounding herb 32 Lethargy cause 33 CeCe with 12 Grammys 38 Natural resource

Thursday’s Puzzle Solved

©2022 Tribune Content Agency, LLC

39 Horned Frogs’ sch.

40 Seuss cat’s trademark 41 English cathedral town 43 Sheer joy 44 Baklava dough 45 Smell 46 Came to fruition 51 Official proclamation 53 Use plastic, say

3/11/22

55 Miscellany 56 Wearing, with “in” 57 Beach feature 58 Up-there bear 59 Brief cleaner 60 Pressure opening?

61 “Illmatic” rapper 63 Jabber 64 Live-ball __: baseball period 65 S.A. country, to the IOC

Nancy Black Tribune Content Agency Linda Black Horoscopes

Today’s Birthday (03/11/22). Dreams can come true this year. Diligent, private preparation fulfills plans. Launch your creative masterpiece this spring, before navigating changing conditions with your summer investigation. Autumn explorations reveal unimagined treasure. Adapt the message for changing news next winter. Take one step at a time.

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 7 — Envision a domestic improvement.

Indulge crazy ideas and suggestions. Listen to experts and designers. Align on the perfect solution with family and begin.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) — Today is an 8 — An unexpected plot twist pulls you deeper into a fascinating story. One brilliant idea leads to another. Harness creative inspiration and express your own view.

Gemini (May 21-June 20) — Today is a 9 — Tap silver. A lucky break provides a cash flow surge. Ride a profitable wave. Dreamy outcomes are available. Give thanks and pay it forward.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) — Today is a 9 — A dream appears within reach. Use your persuasive charms to advance. You’re especially lucky. Ask for what you want. Smile for the cameras.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) — Today is a 7 — Things are coming together. Slow to review plans before launching. You may have options you didn’t notice before.

Imagine a dream come true.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) — Today is an 8 — Take advantage of an unexpected opportunity for a team project. Fortune favors bold initiatives. A shared dream lies within reach. Teamwork wins a prize.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) — Today is an 8 — Someone important is paying attention to the good work you’ve been doing. Push to advance a professional goal and doors open. Your status is rising.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) — Today is a 9 — Expand your perspective for a different take. Roadblocks disappear and the way ahead seems clear. Research options and potential. Explore and investigate.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) — Today is an 8 — Keep cash flowing in a positive direction. Collaborate to grow a joint venture. You’re building for the future.

Contribute your piece of the puzzle.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) — Today is a 9 — Negotiate with your partner to refine the plan. Share creative ideas, resources, encouragement and potential solutions. Follow through on what you said you’d do.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) — Today is a 9 — Get hopping! Your work is in demand. Delegate what you can. Prioritize health and vitality. Don’t overdo things.

Moderate consumption and speed. Prepare for excellence.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) — Today is an 8 — Let your heart lead you. Take a spontaneous opportunity for fun and romance. Dreamy possibilities tempt. Express your love, passion and affection. Get creative.

Level 1

2

3

4

3/11/22

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

© 2022 The Mepham Group. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency. All rights reserved.

Page 8B Friday, March 11, 2022

O’Colly

sports

Cowboys send eight wrestlers to NCAAs Braden Bush Staff Reporter

March momentum

Molly Jolliff

OSU heavyweight Luke Surber is seeded No. 19 in the NCAA Wrestling Championships after a runner-up finish in the Big 12 Tournament.

Surber rising ahead of NCAAs Braden Bush Staff Reporter In the confines of Tulsa’s BOK Center, spectators witnessed Luke Surber’s ascension.

Deemed to be undersized for the heavyweight class, Surber, a sophomore from Tuttle, upheaved the heavyweight bracket. He out-wrestled his seventh seed prefix, going 3-1 on the weekend, including two ranked wins, on his way to a runner-up finish.

The loss in the finals to behemoth Wyatt Hendrickson of Air Force takes nothing away from Surber. After dealing with a midseason stretch where he lost five of six matches and hovered around No. 30 in InterMat’s rankings, Surber has proven he can thrive amongst heavyweights.

At the conference tournament, Surber chose to attack rather than

settle for a defensive game plan. Even in defeat, his disposition and approach on the mat appeared reborn from his midseason lapse.

“I think I kinda tried to adjust earlier on, getting in those hand-fight matches and not getting any action, and that hurt me,” Surber said. “I took some losses. I switched up a little bit, too. Now, I go with some smaller guys along with the heavier weights, just because I move faster. So, I think that’s beneficial.”

Surber has found his blueprint.

The Big 12 Tournament put Surber on the map, and he can use that big-stage experience and momentum to disrupt the heavyweight class at NCAAs. “It’s real important as a young wrestler, you got to go compete, you got to go wrestle,” coach John Smith said. “I think there’s some good things he can take from this final match and recognize that once you punch, you’d better be punching back.”

Surber now enters the NCAA Wrestling Championships as the No. 19 seed and will face No. 14 Luke Luffman of Illinois in the opening round. Another run is daunting, but the expectations are higher now for Surber, who proved he is capable of advancing.

He created this opportunity for himself, and he carries with him the confidence and momentum stemming from a breakout performance.

Surber will need to carry over his aggressiveness and pull off some upsets to make a deep tournament run in a talented heavyweight field.

“Luke has definitely progressed throughout the season,” OSU 174-pounder Dustin Plott said. “You can tell each match he’s getting more confident and wrestling better. We say it all year, this is the month we train for, and this is when we will be at our best.” sports.ed@ocolly.com

March is for brackets.

On Wednesday evening, the seedings and brackets for the NCAA Wrestling Championships were released.

OSU will head to Detroit, Michigan, with wrestlers seeded in eight weight classes. The only weights OSU will not have representation in are 165 and 197.

The highest seeded wrestler for the Cowboys is two-time national runner-up Daton Fix, who will be the No. 2 seed at 133. Fix is undefeated and coming off a dominant run in the Big 12 Tournament.

At 125, Trevor Mastrogiovanni enters as the No. 7 seed with a first round matchup against conference foe Kysen Terukina of Iowa State. Mastrogiovanni is 2-1 all-time against Terukina, but the Cyclone won the last meeting.

OSU has two wrestlers making their NCAA tournament debut: No. 25 Carter Young (141) and No. 19 Luke Surber (HWT).

Dustin Plott is No. 6 at 174 pounds after winning the Big 12 Tournament. A season ago, Plott dealt with an inhibiting shoulder injury and did not place at NCAAs, going 1-2.

Like Plott, Kaden Gfeller earned the No. 9 spot after a conference title. Gfeller’s opponent in the first round is No. 24 seed PJ Ogunsanya, a scrappy cadet from Army who is 12-4.

Two Cowboy seniors made the tournament with at-large bids.

At 157, Wyatt Sheets was awarded the No. 31 seed. Dakota Geer has the No. 16 position at 184 following a 15-6 sixth year. sports.ed@ocolly.com