Friday 4/29

Friday, April 29, 2022

SGA holds inauguration after controversial election Kylie Hammack Staff Reporter

Vice President Maddie Dunn, a junior elementary education major. Also taking the oath of office at the OSU’s Student Gov- event, was Senate Speaker ernment Association inau- Audrey Fleschute, a sophogurated its new president, more, and other members vice president and execuof the executive cabinet. tive cabinet; setting the “We’ve got a really stage for what is to come really good team so I am next year. really confident that we On Wednesday can get some stuff done,” evening, Riley Pritzlaff, a Pritzlaff said. “I’m super junior and political science excited.” major, was sworn in as stuThe event included dent body president with speeches from the outgo-

ing figures in SGA and the newly inaugurated officials. During these speeches, members of SGA leadership highlighted their aspirations to increase campus involvement and awareness of SGA. “I am really excited about recruitment,” Fleschute said. “We’re just not in the students’ eye at all, people don’t know who we are, so I really want to change that.”

See SGA on 4A

Courtesy of SGA OSU’s Student Government Association gathered this week to host the annual inauguration of president Riley Pritzlaff (center right), vice-president Maddie Dunn (center left), senate speaker Audrey Fleschute (left) and presidential cabinet members.

Ranks third in Big 12 for sustainability Kylie Hammack Staff Reporter

Courtesy of McKale Montgomery Bryant Keirns (left), an OSU graduate student, won with a time of 2:24:51; McKale Montgomery (right), an OSU assistant professor, won the women’s marathon with a time of 2:41:06;

OSU professor, student win OKC men’s and women’s marathon Payton Little Staff Reporter

school, and Montgomery found her passion for running in an unexpected way.

Montgomery grew up Orange runs strong: in the small town of Fair26.2 miles to be exact. fax, Oklahoma, living out On April 24, runners in the country 4 miles from from across the country town. When she was 14, she participated in the Oklaho- made it her goal to play on ma City Memorial Maraher high school basketball thon, in remembrance of team. The coaches told her the Oklahoma City bomb- if she wanted a spot, she ing 27 years ago. would have to earn it workThe winners of both ing out during the summer marathon races had strong at the school gymnasium. ties to OSU. McKale Mont- Because she was not old gomery, an assistant profes- enough to drive yet, Montsor in the nutrition depart- gomery would run the 4 ment, won the women’s miles to town almost every division and Bryant Keirns, day to workout at the gyma graduate student in nunasium. She earned that tritional sciences, won the spot on the basketball team, men’s division of the race. but when she joined track Both have experience and field, Montgomery said running; Keirns ran durshe found winning state ing middle school and high meets to be more fun.

This passion of running continued for Montgomery. After graduating high school, she began to run for Texas Christian University and she is now the proud owner of the OKC Memorial Marathon course record; running a time of 2 hours, 41 minutes and 6 seconds.

“It was just fun to be able to make a goal and hit it,” Montgomery said. “I’m 37, I kinda thought at 27, when I first won the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon, my running career was on the downhill slide.

I was planning to start a career, start a family, and so to be able to still set running goals and do them at my age is fun.

See Marathon on 5A

Sonrisa Bebo, a freshman French major, has a passion that is not typical of all language majors: sustainability.

In addition to her French major, Bebo is studying fashion merchandising and global studies as minors. Bebo became interested in sustainability during her senior year of high school and has grown that passion in college.

“It started out in fashion specifically and going thrifting but when I came here as a Freshman Research Scholar, I couldn’t find any research opportunities in French,” Bebo said. “So, I decided to do my own study on sustainability.”

During Earth Day April 22, OSU organizations hosted various events promoting sustainability and appreciation of the planet.

However, through her research, Bebo is examining how OSU performs in sustainability compared to other Big 12 universities yearly.

“There is actually a lot going on here on campus and people just don’t know about it,” Bebo said.

To show this, one portion of Bebo’s research was a survey for students assessing their knowledge and ideas about sustainability at OSU. “With the survey I sent out, I had about 80 full responses,” Bebo said. “The consensus was that students thought that sustainability might be happening on campus, and wanted to believe that it was, but they weren’t for sure.”

Some examples of sustainability on campus Bebo found when completing her case study included sustainable features in the Ferguson College of Agriculture’s new building, the position of campus sustainability director, a living-learning community in the Iba residence hall that practices living sustainably and the panhellenic club “Green Greeks.”

“I think OSU should advertise what is going on more,” Bebo said. “That would be one great way to start informing students of what’s going on or seeing if they can get students involved with sustainability.”

To measure how well OSU is faring in its sustainability

Kylie Hammack Sonrisa Bebo presents her case study, highlighting how OSU compares to other Big 12 universities in sustainability.

initiatives, Bebo used a database that scores universities on sustainability based on self-reported data.

A few Big 12 schools, including the University of Oklahoma, do not report their sustainability data, but Bebo was able to gauge OSU’s sustainability success from the available data.

“I looked at the Big 12 university scores and compared and, actually, OSU is the third best,” Bebo said.

Although her time as a Freshman Research Scholar is coming to a close, Bebo is interested in furthering her research on sustainability.

“I want to look at other universities that are doing very very well even if they are not in the Big 12 and see what they are doing and if we could possibly implement it here at OSU,” Bebo said.

Bebo said she sees college campuses as the perfect environment to implement sustainability practices and measures.

“I think it’s important that future leaders, business people, and citizens of the world are aware of how to make the environment better,” Bebo said. news.ed@ocolly.com

What’s Inside

Jason Bollinger Q&A Page 3A

U.S. Senate candidate Jason Bollinger met with OSU students to discuss his campaign.

Succulent planting Page 6A

Students had the chance to plant succulents as part of a SUAB event.

Best Jim Carrey movies Page 8A

Jim Carrey has talked about retirement recently and his resume is long.

Page 2A Friday, April 29, 2022

O’Colly

Page 2

Happy Calf Fry Weekend Tumbleweed Amphitheater 5212 W. Lakeview Rd. April 28 - 30 Doors open at 5 p.m.

Music starts at 6 p.m.

More information at www.calffry.com

Photo of the week

By Molly Jolliff

LINEUP

The new Miss Black OSU, Bobby Jarmon, was crowned Sunday night at the Miss Black OSU Pageant.

Saturday

Friday

Cole Swindell

Dustin Lynch

Randall King

Chris Cagle

Slade Coulter

Corey Kent

Gannon Fremin & CCREV

Cam Allen

After party - Giovannie & The Hired Guns

After party - Tanner Usrey

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 Rachel Williamson Kylie Hammack Stephen Stumpf Ellen Slater Jaden Besteda Allie Putman Connor Gray Kaylie Sequira Payton Little Baylor Bryant

Newsroom

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

Sports reporters: Sudeep Tumma Ben Hutchens Adam Engel Daniel Allen Davis Cordova Jax Thompson Calif Poncy Ashton Slaughter Ben Creider Gabriel Trevino Rowdy Baribeau Braden Bush Ivan White

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

O’Colly

Friday, April 29, 2022 Page 3A

News

Q&A: Bollinger vying for Lankford’s U.S. Senate seat

Davis Cordova Staff Reporter

Top Guns

Courtesy of Ryan Austin Having won second overall, the Flying Aggies club will compete at the national SAFECON aviation competition in Columbus.

OSU flight team prepares for national competition Jake Sellers Staff Reporter For students in OSU’s flight club, the sky is the limit.

The flight team is part of the Flying Aggies Club, a club open to all majors, with the goal of teaching students the many aspects of aviation.

Next month, the OSU flight team will compete at the national SAFECON aviation competition in Columbus, Ohio.

At the regional competition, the flight team placed second overall, with a first place finish in the air events and a third place finish in the ground events. OSU competed with flight teams from Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana and Mississippi. Only the top three overall schools were invited to compete at the national competition.

Claire Reader, the president of the Flying Aggies, is one of the few competing for OSU on the flight team.

Reader said her initial interest in flying stemmed from not knowing what to study in college. Taking advice from a high school friend, she decid-

ed to look into flight school.

“I took a discovery flight, and everything just clicked,” Reader said.

Reader began flying in January 2020. She’s since gravitated toward staying in the private sector, eventually becoming an airline pilot after graduating school. Her interests, however, go beyond being a pilot.

“The Flying Aggies have exposed me to career paths outside of piloting,” Reader said.

Through the resources offered by the Flying Aggies, Reader found interest in becoming a designated pilot examiner, someone who certifies pilots license.

“Being able to certify the next generation of pilots would be really interesting and rewarding to me,” Reader said.

At the competitions, there are both air events and ground events. The ground events include written tests such as the aircraft recognition event, where participants are asked to identify the make, model and year of any number of aircrafts based on their features.

The air events consist of

accuracy landing and navigation competitions, where participants must plan a flight with the goal of executing the time and fuel burn to match as closely to their calculation as possible.

Reader is competing with freshman Ryan Austin in the navigation competition.

Austin is also a professional pilot major and comes from a long line of pilots and aviation enthusiasts. Austin explained the true difficulties of the navigation event.

“You basically need to be within about 30-40 seconds of what you said to have a chance,” Austin said.

The flight is about an hour long, so to reach within 30-40 seconds of the calculated time would require being nearly perfect, at nearly 99% accuracy. Austin explains the benefit of the scrutiny of these events.

“It really makes you a better pilot, and helps you outside of competition as well,” Austin said.

news.ed@ocolly.com

Iran–U.S. Claims Tribunal, so I traveled with the government to litigate with the Iranians in The Hague (Netherlands).

Then I came back to Oklahoma City and joined a law firm here in Oklahoma City, and practiced there for a few years until I decided I was going to run for office, so I opened my own law office in downtown Oklahoma City to have flexibility to be able to do this. Running statewide is a full-time job.

So currently, I have my own law firm but my full time job these days is running for U.S. Senate.

Q: What’s your inspiration to enter the political realm?

A: I think so much of it is about being a lifelong Oklahoman and caring deeply about our state and the people.

While I was in D.C., then coming back to Oklahoma, showed me how disconnected the representation is in D.C. and the machine that is there.

Wanting to make a change and work to be a candidate and U.S. Senator that cares about everyday Oklahomans that have issues that are important to us in our state because what we see right now is nothing but partisan pandering and sound bites that work well for the media while everyday Oklahomans are being left behind.

Q: What are the major points of your campaign?

A: We’re focusing on infrastructure, including broadband internet expansion, which promotes the economies in rural areas and is helpful with remote learning in our public schools.

Reforming our immigration system is a huge part of it because with the workforce shortage here in Oklahoma, it’s an economic issue.

On Wednesday, the Payne County Democrats held a Q&A session at Balanced Coffee Co. in Stillwater with U.S. Senate candidate Jason Bollinger.

Bollinger is a native of Oklahoma, raised in the western part of the state and graduating college from Southwestern Oklahoma State University. After his two-year stint at the SWOSU-Sayre campus, Bollinger got his bachelor’s and law degree from the University of Oklahoma. He now owns and operates his own law firm located in Oklahoma City.

Bollinger is running for U.S. Senator James Lankford’s seat. Lankford has held the position since 2015.

Bollinger was the first Democrat to announce a campaign for Lankford’s seat on April 5, but since he entered, five more Democrats have put their name in the race.

The primary election is on June 28, while the general election is slated for Nov. 8.

Here is what Bollinger had to say to The O’Colly about his background, the key points in his campaign and his plans to help Oklahoma.

Q: Tell me about your background and what makes you Jason Bollinger?

A: Well, I grew up in rural southwest Oklahoma, Beckham County, and graduated from Merritt High School in Elk City.

After I graduated from college, I went to Washington D.C. and worked at the U.S. Department of State. I was in the office of a legal adviser at the State Department. I was part See Bollinger on 5A of the U.S. delegation to the

Courtesy of Jason Bollinger’s campaign Jason Bollinger met with OSU students Julie Kulla and Garrett Rask and others to discuss his campaign.

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

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

405.372.5080

Page 4A Friday, April 29, 2022

O’Colly

News

Senior Spotlight: Emily Alexander Kaylie Sequira Staff Reporter Emily Alexander, a senior marketing and management major, has made the most of her time at OSU. Born and raised in the small panhandle town of Canadian, Texas, Alexander has been heavily involved in extracurriculars at OSU. One particular involvement was serving as a President’s partner to Dr. Kayse Shrum and former President Burns Hargis.

“This was an incredible opportunity,” Alexander said. “They both lead in such diverse ways, and I am grateful to have experienced this leadership through the Alumni Association.”

Alexander served as the vice president of standards for an interfraternity council sorority and was a part of the center for sales and service excellence. She said this involvement contributed to her development, not only as a professional, but also personally.

Alexander also holds being a part of the Table College Ministry close to her heart.

“Watching as the Lord sanctifies and reveals his love through Jesus’s death and resurrection has impacted me eternally, and I am grateful for the great love that God has shown us through his son,” Alexander said.

She said although she has poured many hours into this university, it has given her a plethora of gifts back.

“Being a McKnight Scholar, and a McKnight Scholar Leader Mentor, was an incredible honor,” Alexander said. “In addition to these, being honored as a Women For OSU Scholar continued to reveal this university’s passion for philanthropy and giving.”

Alexander said her biggest accomplishment in college was serving as the OSU Worthy Women’s Ministry Small Group Leader Coordinator.

“Having the opportunity to bring the gospel to OSU through true fellow-

ship and community was truly humbling and an incredible experience,” Alexander said. “I will forever be indebted to this place for the relationships it fostered and blessings that it has facilitated.”

Alexander has had a passion for small businesses for as long as she can remember. She grew immersed in this environment because her family owns a small business in Canadian.

“Growing up in a small business, I have seen from the beginning, the impact that small businesses have on our economy,” Alexander said.

During her time at OSU, Alexander had the opportunity to work the front lines for small businesses through the Stillwater Chamber of Commerce and Oklahoma Department of Agriculture’s Made in Oklahoma Coalition. She said this involvement reinforced her passion for small businesses and her entrepreneurial spirit.

One thing unique about Alexander is her love for music. Alexander has been singing since she can remember, and started songwriting when she was 10.

“I started playing the piano and guitar at 14, and that’s whenever I composed full songs,” Alexander said.

“My passion for that is found in the impact that music can have. Anyone can enjoy it, no matter the skill or language.”

Her single “Overtime” is released on all streaming platforms. She will release more songs on May 4 and her full EP on Aug. 4.

Alexander has worked hard to not only produce music; touching the hearts of others, but also keep up with her education and give back to OSU. “This university has given me so much, and I am so grateful for all of the experiences that I have been given while attending the world’s greatest land grant university,” Alexander said.

Orange blood runs in the Alexander family-- she will be the 21st

Courtesy of Emily Alexander Emily Alexander, a senior marketing and management major, is a McKnight scholar and McKnight Scholar Leader Mentor.

member of her family to graduate from her music career on the side.

OSU. “I cannot wait to see what GeorAfter graduation, Alexander will gia holds,” Alexander said. move to Atlanta and work for GeorgiaPacific LLC as a non-technical sales associate. She will continue to pursue news.ed@ocolly.com

SGA...

attention and bring them to administration’s attention as well as brainstorm solutions.”

A main theme of Continued from 1A the president and vice president’s campaign is ensuring the basic needs The newest mem- of students are met, bers sworn in will join which the pair hope to other SGA members address. in the responsibility of “I am really leading and coordinatexcited to start working ing many of OSU’s ma- on my passion projects jor events and policies which are getting more with university adminis- basic needs and retration. sources like menstrual “SGA is really hygiene projects accesimportant because it’s sible to students,” Dunn the students’ voice to said. “We have a lot of administration,” Pritopportunities to make zlaff said. “Our job is to real change happen on take student concerns campus.” that are brought to our news.ed@ocolly.com

Courtesy of Tribune News Service Pusha T’s new album, “It’s Almost Dry,” features Kanye West West on a few verses.

Karlie Boothe Riley Pritzlaff, student body president, plans to ensure the basic needs of students are met.

Pusha T proves he can hold his own on ‘It’s Almost Dry’ Jaden Besteda Staff Reporter

Pusha T is someone who has great features and occasionally good songs. I think that has changed with his newest album, “It’s Almost Dry”.

The album is produced

by Kanye West and Pharrell Williams. Now, don’t make the mistake and expect a themed album from Pusha that is anything other than coke-laced bars and bragging with clever wordplay.

This is his ‘I’m better than you’

album.

Pusha does not need to venture out to the conscious route to be elite. The bars need to be neck twisting and this album has plenty of those.

The production on the album is nothing short of amazing.

West may be the greatest producer of all time and this album boosts his case even further.

“Just So You Remember” and “Rock ‘n’ Roll” are amazingly produced.

Stand-out tracks are probably hard to decipher on the first week of listening but I keep com-

ing back to “Rock ‘n’ Roll” and “Dreaming of The Past.”

Overall, the album is great from start to finish, and my only complaint is that Pusha didn’t get the final verse on the album.

Malice had a good verse on “I Pray For You” the outro track, but I want to see it end with Pusha. I don’t know where Pusha goes next from here. He could go a different direction or stay on the same route he’s been in. Regardless, after “It’s Almost Dry” I’ll be excited to hear what’s next. entertainment.ed@ocolly.com

O’Colly

Friday, April 29, 2022 Page 5A

News

Marathon...

Continued from 1A It’s more fun and rewarding now than it ever was.”

Keirns also had a great come-from-behind victory to put himself first on the podium. He ran a time of 2 hours, 24 minutes and 51 seconds, a personal best.

“That was my first marathon win,” Keirns said. “I told someone else I never really thought I would win a marathon when I started doing these, so it was pretty cool.

The event’s really special. I’ve done other races where it’s kind of similar field size, but Oklahoma City does a really good job about making it a big deal and giving attention to the runners so it was pretty cool.”

However, before the race even started for Keirns, he indulged in a snack that may seem counterproductive to those who are not in the running scene.

“It might sound kind of weird, but I do like to eat Poptarts and drink Gatorade beforehand,” Keirns said. “It’s kind of like the opposite of normal life where you want to eat things that don’t make you full that have a lot of calories, so that’s kind of what I’ve been gravitating towards here recently.”

Montgomery and Keirns have acted as training partners for each other leading up to the race.

During key workout days, the two would run together, and pushed each other to strive for excellence in running. Through this, the two have developed a special friendship.

“It’s really special because I can always look back on how we started running together in 2019, and I wanted to qualify for the Olympic trials and I asked if he wanted to help me train for it,” Montgomery said. “That first entire year we ran together he couldn’t keep up. It’s been fun watching him progress to, ‘Yeah I can do that work out with you,’ to now, ‘Not only am I going to do that, I’m going to beat you by almost 20 minutes.’”

Almost every Saturday, Montgomery and Keirns run 20 miles together. Keirns said this consistent training contributed to their success during the marathon.

“On some occasions we’ll do mid-week workouts and stuff like that,” Keirns said. I’ve also had her as an instructor too just this last fall. There’s definitely a mutual feeling of pride when the other does well.”

One inspiring aspect of the weekend is the humbling cause as to which the OKC Memorial Marathon stands for. Montgomery was in the fourth grade when bombing on the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building took place, and

Courtesy of Bryan Terry/The Oklahoman This was Bryant Keirns’ first marathon win, celebrated after with Little Caesars pizza.

as a native Oklahoman, the run has a significant meaning for her.

For 22 years, Oklahomans and non-Oklahomans come together in OKC to honor and remember the lives that were lost that day and those affected by the tragedy.

Montgomery and Keirns have received support from students, faculty and people they may not have met within the Cowboy family.

“I ran in college, actually I ran for TCU, but there’s so many OSU fans out there,” Montgomery said. “A lot of people who didn’t even know me were reading on the TV or hearing that I was a professor at OSU, so I heard ‘Go Pokes’ so many times whenever I was out there on the course, and it was fun cause I’d do a little ‘Pistols Firing’ and they would cheer even more. Having those people that were just rooting for me because of my association with OSU was fun.”

It was apparent that

Courtesy of Chris Landberger/The Oklahoman This was McKale Montgomery’s second time to win the women’s Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon; this time, breaking the record.

Montgomery’s students were paying attention to the feats of their professor, as she had a little bit of a surprise when she came into class Monday.

“I always wonder if my students are paying attention when I’m lecturing,” Montgomery said.

“I talk about obviously metabolism, but I try to still tell stories along the way and they know that I love Mountain Dew Zero. When I came into class Monday, there was a 6-pack of Mountain Dew Zero waiting on the lectern for me so I know they’re listening.”

Both celebrated their great feat of winning the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon in different ways, but Keirns celebrated in luxury. It may be a bit cheesy, but there was one thing on his mind after the race: pizza.

“Me, my wife and a couple friends spent 60 dollars at Little Caesars,” Keirns said. “I don’t think anyone really thinks that’s a possibility with how cheap it is, but we really blew it out.”

While pizza was Keirns celebratory item of choice, Montgomery had something a bit different in mind.

“I’m a pretty big fan of Coors Light,” Montgomery said.

“People know that about me so I had a few of those. I went to lunch with my mom, my husband, and my daughter, and I went to bed early.”

After this feat, Montgomery and Keirns are training to conquer their next: trying out for the olympic prelims in the marathon event.

Montgomery and Keirns accomplishments paint different pictures. Keirns said he never thought that he would be in the position he is today as a runner.

He was adamant he never thought he would win a marathon in his career; yet he proved himself wrong by going the distance.

Montgomery said it is important to never rule anything out.

“I truly thought when I ran this race my last year as a student in my 20s, that it was my last shot at winning a marathon,” Montgomery said. “Nine years later and I got to do it again and it was just as sweet, even sweeter. I ran it 9 years later and 12 minutes faster than the first time I ran it.”

“Don’t put a timestamp on your goals. Just because it didn’t happen today doesn’t mean it won’t happen tomorrow or 10 years from now.”

news.ed@ocolly.com

Courtesy of Jason Bollinger’s campaign Jason Bollinger visited OSU and Stillwater residents to promote his run for U.S. Senate.

with OklaBollinger... conversations homans to grow this campaign organically.

Continued from 3A

We will be on TV later, as every political campaign is, but I wanted to hear what’s challenging Oklahomans and what they need from the representation in D.C. Q: James Lankford has held a national position for over a decade, is there belief that now is the time to take Lankford’s seat?

A: We’ve seen through James Lankford’s tenure in D.C. that he’s moved further away from reason and further into the throes of the alt-right and the more extreme side of the Republican Party.

We saw that come together on Jan. 6, 2020, where he fanned the flames of an insurrection before ultimately voting to do the right thing. But, it showed that James Lankford is no longer a representative for Oklahoma. He’s a representative for whatever major donors outside of Oklahoma and the powers, within the Republican Party, tell him to do.

So, I think he’s weakened. In fact, I know he is because we have supporters in this campaign who have supported him in the past.

People who believe in our democracy and in our Constitution, don’t want to support a candidate who doesn’t. So, absolutely now is the time and I think it’s important for Oklahoma and the future of our country that we do this now. We can’t let him continue to drag us further and further away from the values that we hold.

Funding public education here in Oklahoma. My mom is a career public school teacher, so I saw firsthand teacher struggles like my mom spending money out of her own pocket and the lack of resources that public schools have.

Then, access to health care is another huge one with both the cost of healthcare and access to healthcare in rural areas.

All of that on top of protecting democracy, restoring faith in our elections process and promoting our Constitution. These seem like basic things, but we’ve seen them erode a lot over the past several years.

Q: What are some key things you think you could help OSU students with in your campaign?

A: I think number one on the list is the concern about the cost of higher education and student loans. I am a candidate who is saddled with student loans, so I feel that pain myself and it’s something we’ve got to work on not only a plan for forgiveness, but addressing the root of the issue which is the high price of higher education.

Q: Do you worry about name recognition and the history of Oklahoman voting?

A: Of course.

Being a first-time candidate, name ID is something that is huge, and that’s why I’m traveling around the state early.

It’s important to get out and meet as many Oklahomans as possible and I want to have one-on-one news.ed@ocolly.com

Page 6A Friday, April 29, 2022

O’Colly

Photos

Succulent Planting SUAB has dozens of activities for students on campus, and last week students had the opportunity to plant their own succulent to take home in a self-decorated pot.

All photos by Molly Jolliff

he t t ou k c e Ch

way! a e d i H inal g i r O

SINCE 1957,

230 S. Knoblock St. Stillwater, OK 74074

Stop in for fresh Fried Mushrooms or Pizza made to your liking!

O’Colly

Friday, April 29, 2022 Page 7A

Lifestyle

What Swedish House Mafia got right on new album PJ Tikalsky Staff Reporter It’s been some time since the name Swedish House Mafia has been a household name.

After crashing onto the charts in the early 2010s with singles like “Your Name” and “Don’t you Worry Child,” the group broke up for almost five years, but reunited for festival tours in 2018.

The Stockholm-based trio has brought forth its first studio album nearly 14 years after their original formation in 2008. What we are left with is an impressive display of the group’s most put-together sound, spanning 17 tracks and 62 minutes. However, for as much as Swedish House Mafia gets right on “Paradise Again,” it’s clear there’s still room to grow in some aspects.

At the peak popularity of the supergroup, electronic music was king.

Electronic dance music was the largest pop genre of the early 2010s, and besides themselves, artists like David Guetta, Calvin Harris and Zedd were topping the charts. What made the Mafia stand out was its ability to take simple things, like three notes on a keyboard, and develop expansive, loud tracks that could rock a festival ground.

This trait is present in the songs; in the album’s opener “Time,” the group takes the chopped vocals of SwedishAmerican artist Mapei and transforms them into a bright, bouncy track that gets you fully invested in what’s to come. In “Calling On,” a similar process occurs, with a Cassietta George sample soaring over a mixture of pulsing synths and crushed drums. Finally, the closing track “For You,” shows the qualities the trio has to make beautiful, anthemic music, and serving as a spectacular closer to the experience. The old Swedish House Mafia presence finds itself in this album, but its explorations into a new, moodier sound are what stand out the most, for better and worse.

Throughout the album, one thing is clear: nothing is solidified for Swedish House Mafia, and its push into this

“new sound” is emblematic of that.

Tracks like “Mafia” and “19.30,” get so caught up in themselves and their buzzing, whirring synths drag for too long.

“Frankenstein,” features a mediocre performance from A$AP Rocky, turning from a haunting trap-like song into a double-time pseudo-rager that falls flat lyrically and musically. However, “Jacob’s Note,” “Home” and the titular track “Paradise Again” display incredible restraint; producing muted, toned down interludes between some of the most exciting and interesting tracks on the whole album.

The best examples of Swedish House Mafia’s latest dive into its new sound are in two of the singles released before the album. “Moth To A Flame,” featuring The Weeknd, comes fourth on the tracklist, showcasing what member Chris Angello described as a “match made in heaven” in an interview with Variety.

Having worked with Swedish House Mafia on his album “Dawn FM,” The Weekend’s angelic, sweeping voice and jealous writing mixes perfectly with the throbbing, urgent synth-pop production to create a head-bobbing, sinister track bound to find its way onto Spotify’s “Villain Mode” playlist.

Speaking of head-bobbing tracks, the second single, “Once In A Lifetime” featuring Ty Dolla $ign and 070 Shake, is of what Swedish House Mafia has been getting at in this new musical space. Ty’s smooth sound glides perfectly over the bass-heavy, gleaming production that sounds like it belongs on Daft Punk’s “TRON” soundtrack. 070 Shake’s voice injects a shining energy, singing of white lights and skylines, painting a picture of escape and cautious freedom. It’s endlessly playable, and may be the breakout song on the album.

“Paradise Again” is the tale of two “sides” of an album. One side: upbeat, groovy, dance-hit style progressive house that’s more reminiscent of their earlier work; the other opaque, brooding, almost angry, with much left to

Courtesy of Tribune News Service Swedish House Mafia recently released its new album, “Paradise Again” and fans are having mixed thoughts on it.

be desired at times. Traveling between these two sides, we are met with mellow, tight interludes, tying the whole experience together. Combining these two sides together, a solid picture of the Swedish House Mafia sound forms: polished, energetic, dark, and grandiose.

It sounds expensive and meticulous, like entering an Equinox Club with a guest pass or walking into a

billionaire supervillain’s freakishly neat lair. Regardless of which world you may find yourself in, “Paradise Again” immerses listeners and takes them along for a thrilling ride.

entertainment.ed@ocolly.com

Graphic Designers Wanted The O’Colly Media Group is now hiring Advertising Designers for our ad and marketing departments. Duties include working on layouts, designing ads and assisting marketing department with media campaigns. Hours are flexible, we will work around your class schedule. For more information contact Lori@ ocolly.com or call 405-744-7355.

STILLWATER’S MATTRESS STORE 424 SOUTH MAIN STREET, STILLWATER,OK 74074

405-624-3212

WWW.STILLWATERFURNITURESHOWCASE.COM

MONDAY-SATURDAY | 9:30 - 6:00 SUNDAY | 1:00 - 5:00

Page 8A Friday, April 29, 2022

Lifestyle

O’Colly

Courtesy of Tribune News Service

A look at Jim Carrey’s best films Jim Carry mentioned his retirement in a recent interview.

Connor Gray Staff Reporter

world his brilliant take on comedy and the extent he would go with his physical acting abilities. Whether it be his ludicrous facial expressions or body movements, he did it all for the sake of comedy. Despite a generic and lackluster plot, Carrey has made this high energy film an iconic, quotable comedy and landmark in film history.

ing of a watch.

“The Truman Show” (1998) “The Truman Show” is the first movie Carrey delved into showcasing his dramatic acting side and prove he is more than a man who can make crazy faces and loud noises. A movie I would consider to be ahead of its time, “The Truman Show” is equal parts endearing as it is provocative. The balance of having a movie filled with laughs, while having darker and more serious undertones, flourishes in “The Truman Show,” thanks to Carrey.

and wise presence, “Bruce Almighty” succeeds strongly in the slapstick comedy it is going for.

“Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” (2004) It is no secret how I feel about “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind”, and nothing will change the love I have for it. Therefore, it must make it “The Cable Guy” (1996) on the list since this is Carrey’s most A highly underrated film in my powerful dramatic role. With great opinion, “The Cable Guy” is a dark direction, writing, and acting from the comedy starring Carrey and Matentirety of the cast, Carrey and Kate thew Broderick and directed by fellow Winslet in particular, “Eternal Sunshine comedian Ben Stiller. A film that has of the Spotless Mind” is not just the aged fantastically, Carrey plays the “Bruce Almighty” (2003) best-crafted Carrey film, but also one of “Ace Ventura: Pet Detective” same high energy comedic character A movie made for Carrey fans: my favorite movies and a recommenda(1994) as usual, but with a darker twist to him “Bruce Almighty” sees Carrey taktion that I cannot stress enough.

1994 was the year of Carrey with making him a tragic character not quite ing it to the max and going crazy with Whether you prefer to see Carhits such as “Dumb and Dumber,” “The of the same formula that he usually falls this fun performance. Accompanied by rey’s funny, lighthearted side or his Mask” and “Ace Ventura: Pet Detecinto. With some of my personal favorite Steve Carrell, who also has great come- more serious roles, it is clear he is a tive.” The movie skyrocketed Carrey Carrey moments, this is one that flies dic moments throughout and Morgan deserving actor. to fame as he was able to display to the under the radar of many and is deserv- Freeman who provides his usual hearty entertainment.ed@ocolly.com As one of the most popular comedic actors during the past 30 years, Jim Carrey has been a staple of comedy as an A-list actor in Hollywood.

During the press tour for the recent release, “Sonic the Hedgehog 2,” Carrey stated, “Well, I’m retiring. Yeah, probably. I’m being fairly serious.”

Considering the likelihood he may be retiring, here are some Carrey movies that I would recommend from the Hollywood legend.

Chacarra’s large sock collection highlights success

Chris Becker Editor-in-Chief

Branson Evans Haneen Rashawn (right), is the president for the Brand Squad, a club at OSU that is revolutionary for helping athletes with their NIL ventures.

Seismic startup

OSU club pioneering NIL efforts for student-athletes is swarmed with constant phone calls each day. His first objective each morning is to ring his business partner, Michael Bollig, a junior sports management student, to discuss that Dean Ruhl day’s plan. The calls can last nearly two hours, folSports Editor lowed by another meeting over lunch.

James White might He speaks and meets as well own a walkiewith his clients, five OSU talkie. athletes. A meeting with White, a junior each occurs once a week. marketing student at OSU, White and Bollig do it

all while balancing class, homework and being a college student.

“I think our dayto-day is just planning and executing, planning and executing,” White said. “It’s just a one-step process.”

The persistent interactions aren’t without reason. White serves as the general manager of fundraising for OSU’s Brand Squad, a blossoming student organization

helping student-athletes successfully improve their personal brand and maximize their name, image and likeness (NIL) potential.

NIL’s impact is farreaching.

After the policies were implemented allowing more than 480,000 college athletes the ability to profit off their personal image, college See Startup on 4B

Righting the Ship

Eugenio Chacarra loves socks.

Like, a lot.

Chacarra is a self-proclaimed ‘sock guy’ who touts his creative socks in golf tournaments for Oklahoma State.

Chacarra’s sock collection came when he realized he wanted a way to stand out on the golf course. With the golfers’ uniforms being the same from head to toe, Chacarra saw socks as his outlet for his personality.

“I mean I’m a sock guy. I love socks.

I do that every tournament,” Chacarra said.

“I try to have 20 new socks every season. I don’t really care what is in there, just something different. We all wear the same outfit because we’re a team.

Just to show off a little.

“I’m still going to do that when I’m on Tour or here all my life.”

Despite appearing quiet and reserved on the outside, his socks are anything but quiet.

From cows to avocados he is always on the prowl for new socks to

add to his collection.

It doesn’t matter the brand, it’s all in the pattern.

Rasmus Neergaard-Peterson, Chaccara’s teammate and roommate, knows firsthand about his roommate’s addiction to new socks. When he sees a package addressed to Chaccara, he knows exactly what to expect.

“It’s not uncommon that we get back and you see a box outside of the house with new socks,” NeergaardPeterson said.

Chaccara can’t tab the exact moment when the obsession began. His pile of socks has just kept growing.

“I own a lot. I was talking about it with teammates recently, actually with Rasmus and I started counting. I had more than 150,” Chacarra said. “It’s been a while since I started doing socks for like six or seven years.”

There’s no particular set of standards a pair has to meet to earn the honor of being added to the growing collection. It simply depends on how he feels when he sees them.

More importantly, when the socks have been delivered in order to stay in the competitive rotation he has to play well in them.

See Collection on 5B

Shippy-Fletcher’s attitude changed Cowgirl softball dream to catch. She came to OSU from Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, as an infielder. It was Shippy-Fletcher’s love of winning, not catching, that led to her impromptu tryout.

“We just walked outside to the game field here and threw some Sam Hutchens balls,” Gajewski said.

Assistant coach Jeff Cottrill Assistant Sports Editor got in the circle and pitched while Kenny Gajewski, then a new Gajewski watched Shippy-Fletcher head coach at Oklahoma State, sat catch pitches in full gear. It didn’t in his office in office thinking ‘No take long before Gajewski had seen way.’ enough.

Vanessa Shippy-Fletcher, his “I walked inside and said, star infielder, had just issued an ‘Man, she can catch,’” Gajewski ultimatum. said.

“She walked in to tell me that Now, Shippy-Fletcher is an she wanted to catch, because we assistant coach for the Cowgirls. weren’t good enough behind the She completed her career in 2018 plate,” Gajewski said. “And that she as a utility player who started a could do it better than what we had. team-record 234 consecutive games I was like, ‘There’s no way.’”

— many as a catcher. She never Gajewski doesn’t rememmissed a game at OSU. After playber if Shippy-Fletcher, who was ing in the National Pro Fastpitch just Shippy at the time, made that league for a season and serving declaration in her freshman year, as an assistant coach at Syracuse 2015, or her sophomore year. He for two years, she took a job as a does pinpoint that conversation as volunteer assistant coach at OSU in the moment he knew Shippy was 2021. different.

Read Ship on 8B It was not Shippy-Fletcher’s

Abby Cage Vanessa Shippy-Fletcher has been instrumental in developing a culture at OSU.

Courtesy of OSU Athletics Eugenio Chacarra normally buys 20 - 30 pairs of socks a season.

What’s Inside

Hometown advantage Page 5B

Outfield decks unique solution for increasing softball attendance.

Kilts and stilts Page 6B

Mendham spent summer with Savannah Bananas summer ball team.

More motivation Page 8B

Etienne finding reason through girlfriend, son.

Page 2B Friday, April 29, 2022

O’Colly

sports

Tatematsu a golf course Marvel Chris Becker Editor-in-Chief

in the Guardians of the Galaxy franchise.

The team, including Tatematsu, got to meet and play with Pratt.

“He’s one of the nicest celebrities I have ever met,” she said. “It was so cool to get to know him, I mean we won so it was awesome.”

Tatematsu ended up winning the East Lake Cup the day after meeting Pratt, it was her second collegiate win. This season she has played in seven events for the Cowgirls with three top 10 finishes and finishing outside of the top 20 just once.

After a second place team finish at the Big 12 Championship where Tatematsu finished tied for 19th Tatematsu and the Cowgirls are prepared to defend Karsten Creek for an NCAA Regional.

With a challenging field and their eyes set on a run to the NCAA Championship, the Cowgirls feel they have what it takes to advance through the regional.

“Getting to play at our home course, I’m just looking forward to it,” Tatematsu said. “Excited to see and get to play in front of all my friends and people I know.”

Spider-man travels with the Oklahoma State women’s golf team.

On the bag of Cowgirl sophomore Rina Tatematsu a small plush Spiderman figure dangles from a latch. The little toy travels wherever Tatematsu is playing golf, which typically is wherever the Cowgirls are.

“I’ve enjoyed watching Marvel since I was little, I’m just a fan of Spider-man,” Tatematsu said. “I just thought (the keychain) was cute.”

Tatematsu is a big superhero fan. She can’t name her favorite movie but she does like most of the movies like Spider-man and Wonder Woman. However she isn’t a huge Iron Man fan.

“I like a lot of them, Spider-Man and Aquaman. I love a lot of them,” Tatematsu said.

Her love for Marvel came to a head at the 2021 East Lake Cup when Cowgirls got to meet Chris Pratt, who stars as Star-Lord sports.ed@ocolly.com

2022 OSU Regional Location: Karsten Creek May 16-18 No. 6 Oklahoma State No. 7 Arizona State No. 16 Baylor No. 17 Auburn Michigan State Clemson Campbell Furman NC State California Tulane Illinois State *The top four teams advance to the NCAA Championships May 20-25 in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Victory lap Abby Smith

Victor Mederos has adjusted to his new life in Stillwater after transforming from Miami.

Mederos clicking after finding ideal role Daniel Allen Staff Reporter Victor Mederos needed a change.

Mederos’ life had been ingrained within the city of Miami for nearly a decade. He wanted to be a starting pitcher — not a reliever or closer. In his lone season at Miami, Mederos was not given the opportunity he had hoped, instead used in relief.

“The situations I was thrown into were pretty hard,” Mederos said. “It’s like, if I didn’t get out of a jam or whatever it was, it all fell on my shoulders.”

When all was said and done, he had compiled a shaky 5.11 ERA in his first college baseball season. Mederos wasn’t fond of the atmosphere at Miami as he had been prior to the season.

He spent the summer in the Cape Cod summer league, where he played under former OSU coach Tom Holliday. From the start, Tom Holliday felt uneased with Mederos. Once the two began conversing with one another, that

sense of uneasiness began to grow exponentially.

“I could tell something was wrong with the kid,” Holliday said. “I just didn’t know what exactly it was.”

His theory proved to be true when Hector Florin, an adviser and family friend to Mederos, contacted Holliday, informing him Mederos was in fact unhappy at Miami.

Mederos had been given little opportunity at Miami, essentially being forced into a role he was uncomfortable with. It became clear to Holliday as the summer season progressed that Mederos sought a new home.

“I told (Victor), ‘You explore every avenue to stay there (at Miami),’” Holliday said. “You go talk to the coaches. Whatever is bothering you, you try to work it out because that’s your home, and that’s where your family is.”

Holliday wanted to help, however, given the circumstances regarding the short amount of time over the summer, he knew it would be difficult.

After countless

conversations between the two regarding his future at the college level, it didn’t take long for Mederos to transfer.

With already having a strong rapport with Holliday and a sense of familiarity established regarding OSU, he visited and committed in July.

One factor Holliday said Mederos took into consideration was the sole fact that he needed to become pro-ready, in the sense it was extremely vital that he adjust to a more professional-like atmosphere. This would entail being away from home more often.

“I mean even just to get drafted is an accomplishment,” Mederos said. “Just to get there to the big leagues is, I mean, it’s one in a billion. But yeah, I definitely think this definitely prepares you. It’s just a lifestyle. You know, you’re living the same lifestyle over and over.”

In spite of the inconsistencies, Holliday has seen a tremendous growth in production on the mound from Mederos in comparison to his time

at Miami, which he credits to not only his ability to mature quickly but his desire to learn and develop as a player.

“He’s learned how to walk on his own,” Holliday said. “He’s adapted to this.

He’s actually happy. He misses his family but he’s happy, he’s not homesick.

That normally happens.

We’ve had a lot of homesick kids here, and you’ve got to get over the homesick (aspect), which our great players did.”

Holliday knows how versatile of a player Mederos is. According to Holliday, a large portion of a kid’s success comes when you take a chance on them, and he believes Mederos is a true testament to that theory.

“I like those guys at Miami, but they (messed) up,” Holliday said. “They mistreated this kid and he’s going to look for the good more than the bad. And there’s a lot of good here (in Stillwater), and he’ll continue to benefit.”

sports.ed@ocolly.com

HIMALAYAN GROCERY STORE

O’Colly

Friday, April 29, 2022 Page 3B

sports

Fenimore entering OSU Ring of Honor

Gabriel Trevino Staff Reporter

Abby Smith OSU shortstop Hueston Morrill bounced around multiple infield positions before setting in as a two-way player for the Cowboys.

Morrill emerging as true two-way player

Daniel Allen Staff Reporter Hueston Morrill always saw himself as a two-way player.

When OSU coach Josh Holliday gave his recruiting pitch to Morrill, he wasn’t coy when explaining his intentions to develop him as a twoway player. “(Pitching) is something we’ve always known that he had the potential to do,” Holliday said. “We knew it was in his background.

We knew it was certainly something that he could do.”

Morrill was part of the 2019 recruiting class. A top-100 recruit in his class, he already had high expectations for his inaugural season of college baseball.

In spite of his desire to pitch for the Cowboys in his freshman season, Morrill’s role prevented him. The departure of starting second baseman Andrew Rosa following the 2018 season, and the limited

number of utility players made a need for a second baseman.

Morrill quickly established himself as the starting second baseman for OSU in 2019, finishing with a .282 batting average while leading the team in stolen bases with 12.

Morrill once again shifted positions after shortstop Andrew Navigato departed after 2019.

In 2021, OSU’s pitching staff became gutted with injuries, losing starter Parker Scott and primary closer Brett Standlee for a significant amount of time.

“We were running out of pitchers,” Holliday said. “We needed someone to fill those gaps for us.”

Morrill made his first pitching appearance for OSU in a midweek game against Oklahoma, followed by a second appearance a week later against New Orleans.

In just his first season as a pitcher, Morrill compiled a 9.82 ERA in two appearances and 3.2 innings of action.

“Honestly I was just doing whatever the team needed,” Morrill said. “You know, they say that if you stay ready, you don’t have to get ready. So for me,

Party/Semi-formal Pageant/Performace Wedding

being prepared, in that situation, is what I’ve practiced (my whole life).”

Heading into the season, Holliday mentioned numerous times he and pitching coach Rob Walton had planned on keeping Morrill as a valuable asset heading into the season.

As anticipated, Morrill’s role shifted.

With true freshman Roc Riggio proving his worth and quickly cementing a spot as the starting second baseman, Marcus Brown shifting to shortstop, and Nolan McLean making the jump to third, Morrill has seen more time on the mound.

While still maintaining the role as a vital piece in the infield for the Cowboys, Morrill has arguably had his best as a pitcher for OSU, making a drastic leap in production.

He owns a 2.25 ERA in three appearances and four innings pitched up to this point.

“I just feel like there was maybe a little more pressure (last year),” Morrill said.

“With just trying to do multiple things at one time. You know, trying to be a two-way (player) is a little more difficult.”

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

Having defensive pieces fill the voids in the infield for OSU this season has allowed Morrill to blossom on the mound and finally be something he has always wanted; a true two-way player.

The wear and tear accumulating from being a two-way player hasn’t gone unmentioned by McLean or Morrill, both being two-way pieces for the Cowboys this season.

Starting pitcher Justin Campbell, a two-way player for the Cowboys in his first two seasons in Stillwater, felt pressured to focus solely on the pitching aspect due to the toll it had on his body and the overall high demand that came with being that type of player.

However, Morrill said he believes as long as he can handle it, it will only strengthen both his game and his overall mentality as a baseball player.

“Hueston’s utilization has been based on his health and our personnel,” Holliday said.

“It’s something his body can handle, and then doing it at a time when the team needs him, it’s great for us as a team.” sports.ed@ocolly.com

ing yards, set multiple school records and earned the nickname, “Blond Bomber.”

“Bob Fenimore was one of the greatest players to ever play at Oklahoma State,” OSU football coach Mike Gundy said. “It was obviously a different era of the game than what we see today, but the way he dominated in every facet was unbelievable.”

Fenimore was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1972, and will join fellow running backs Sanders and Thomas in the Cowboy Ring of Honor later this year.

“Bob Fenimore led a team that should be credited with proving early in our history that Oklahoma State can win at the highest levels of college football,” OSU Athletic Director Chad Weiberg said. “He started a long tradition of legendary running backs at OSU.” Fenimore was more than just a running back, as he threw for 131 yards in the 1945 Cotton Bowl victory and set a program record with 18 career-interceptions, a record that still stands today.

“Bob Fenimore put us on the football map,” Larry Reece, Boone Pickens Stadium PA announcer said. “He twice finished in the top 5 for the Heisman, he was our first football AllAmerican and led us to an undefeated national championship season.”

A No. 1 overall draft pick, All-American and Hall of Fame running back will join the Cowboys’ most exclusive club.

Towering above the field of Boone Pickens Stadium, above the stands behind the west endzone are two names and numbers.

“No. 21. Barry Sanders.”

“No. 34. Thurman Thomas.”

A third will join the wall and stand next to the all-time greats in OSU’s history.

“No. 55. Bob Fenimore.”

On Wednesday, OSU announced Fenimore will enter the Cowboy Ring of Honor on Oct. 8, when OSU faces off against Texas Tech at Boone Pickens Stadium.

Fenimore is still the only former OSU football player to be drafted No. 1 overall in the NFL draft, as he was selected by the Chicago Bears in 1947.

The two time AllAmerican and Heisman finalist helped take OSU to a 1944 Cotton Bowl victory and the 1945 national championship, the only national championship in OSU football history.

In those two seasons, Fenimore led the nation in total rush- sports.ed@ocolly.com

Courtesy of Oklahoma State Athletics Bob Fenimore led his 1945 team to a perfect 9-0 record and was one of the first great Cowboy football players.

Page 4B Friday, April 29, 2022

O’Colly

sports

Breaking down Gundy’s latest contract extension

Sam Hutchens Assistant Sports Editor

Jaiden Daughty Jake Thompson celebrates the grand slam with his teammate.

Stakes high ahead of Texas series Daniel Allen as a regional host Series appearStaff Reporter for the first time in ances.

Consistent top-25 matchups.

Dramatic endings.

Iconic traditions and some of the best players in the nation facing off against each other.

That’s what recent matchups between Oklahoma State and Texas have featured.

In 2019, the Cowboys swept the Longhorns at home, which narrowed down the Big 12 race between OSU, Texas Tech, and Baylor. In addition, that series sweep boosted Oklahoma State’s postseason resume and helped OSU earn a spot

four years.

In 2021, Texas took two of three from the Cowboys in Stillwater. That put Texas in firm control of the first place spot in the Big 12 standings, en route to a share of the conference regular season title with TCU. 2022 seems to have identical, if not significantly higher, stakes than the past two matchups. This weekend will feature two of the most storied programs in all of college baseball.

OSU and Texas have seven combined national championships and College World

Startup...

Continued from 1B athletics shifted seismically.

Websites were created to give valuations on players’ NIL potential.

Recruiting shifted. Schools that are able to help connect prospective athletes with lucrative NIL deals have a favorable advantage over schools that can’t (state laws make this especially chaotic to navigate).

What deals can be signed is crucial too. Athletes are prohibited from signing deals with companies related to alcohol or marijuana. Athletes can’t be paid strictly for their on-field performance either.

All deals need to be “fair market value”, meaning athletes shouldn’t expect $2 million for an Instagram post.

Mix in athletes being able to transfer to another school without any penalties and things get even more hectic.

“We’re always talking about what’s the next best thing we can do to help them,” White said.

Six months ago, White didn’t even know the Brand Squad existed until he received an email asking him to join.

On an impulse (and some coaxing from Bollig, his friend since freshman year), White joined.

“It was a new thing to try,” White said. “If it didn’t work, it didn’t work.”

It worked.

Less than a year after it’s inception, the Brand Squad has grown exponentially and pioneered the concept of helping athletes take advantage of NIL opportunities. After starting with 10 students helping a handful of athletes back in August, the official OSU club has blossomed into an expansive “marketing agency.”

The staff has swelled to more than 50 students helping more than 60 athletes. Maribeth Kuzmeski, the club’s adviser and founder, said the organization averages about a new athlete a day.

“It’s pretty neat to watch it grow and succeed,” White said.

The organization has become an innovative concept OSU is pioneering, drawing considerable interest from hundreds of other colleges looking to replicate the idea.

“We are way ahead of the curve,” Kuzmeski said.

This series will likely serve as a deciding factor for the Big 12 race moving forward.

Holliday made it a priority to schedule good teams such as Vanderbilt and Gonzaga to prepare his team for moments like this.

“This weekend, it’s gonna be fun,” left fielder Jake Thompson said. “I feel like it’s like a postseason type vibe almost every game here with where the crowd gets into it and with the way the games have been going, especially this past weekend.”

On Friday night, No. 8 Oklahoma State (28-13) will travel to Austin, Texas to face off against No. 10 Texas (3113) at the iconic UFCU Disch-Falk Field to kickstart a three-game series between the two teams.

“Texas has played well,” OSU baseball coach Josh Holliday said. “They, like us, have quite a very ambitious schedule, and they appear to be very good like everyone thought. I think a vast majority of their team is back from last year.

In fact, I think almost all of them sports.ed@ocolly.com are.”

Kuzmeski founded the group after noticing a problem months before.

Kuzmeski, an assistant professor of professional practice at OSU, had spent the past 27 years running her own professional marketing agency, collecting a Ph.D. and writing numerous books.

Those were the main reasons this assignment “fell in her lap.”

Shortly after the NCAA implemented NIL rules on July 1, OSU’s athletic department asked the Spears School of Business to construct a course over the policies. Name, Image and Likeness – Personal Branding.

Constructing a course, with marginal content to reference and build around, was difficult, but after trickling down from the Dean’s office, Kuzmeski was put in charge of it. Based on her marketing background and having several student-athlete family members, Kuzmeski accepted the assignment.

She quickly realized the difficulty of understanding the NIL policies and while establishing the course, she looked for a solution.

“I thought, ‘What can we do to help out student-athletes?’” Kuzmeski said. “So, I’m the adviser of the marketing club, and I thought, ‘Well, maybe I can use some of my marketing club students and pair them up with studentathletes.’”

Less than a year later, the club’s impact has been game changing.

Students helping students Travis Wittlake doesn’t know how they got his number.

Wittlake, a redshirt junior wrestler at OSU, was contacted by Haneen Rashawn, the Brand Squad’s president, about being one of the organizations sponsored athletes.

He said initially he thought it was a random agency reaching out to him.

OSU’s compliance office had diligently explained to be cautious about engaging with agencies that could be scams.

But after a quick conversation over Zoom, Rashawn and Wittlake discussed improving his social media presence and creating a clothing brand to help build his NIL potential.

“It just kind of went on from there,” Wittlake said. “It’s been good.”

The student-on-student interaction is what makes the Brand Squad unique.

Rashawn said having student and student-athletes both benefitting from the club has helped put everyone on an

Contract extensions tend to follow success.

After coach Mike Gundy led Oklahoma State to a Fiesta Bowl win against Notre Dame in the 2021 season, he got a new contract.

The O’Colly obtained a copy of Gundy’s new contract.

Here are some notable takeaways.

The contract runs for five years. OSU will pay him $7.5 million annually.

It is a $1 million annual increase from his previous deal. The contract increases $125,000 each year. In addition to that, every year Gundy is OSU’s head coach on the national letter of intent signing day, he will receive a retention bonus of $1 million.

Other compensation includes a gas card, a suite at Boone Pickens Stadium, a loaned car, a membership to Karsten Creek and four tickets to OSU men’s basketball games.

In a press release, athletic director Chad Weiberg praised Gundy.

“Mike Gundy has been a transformational head coach for Oklahoma State,” Weiberg said. “In the ultra-competitive environment of college football, OSU has been one of the most

File photo If OSU again reaches a New Year’s Six bowl game Mike Gundy will recieve $125,000.

consistently competitive programs in the country.”

The contract is also laced with incentives. According to the document, if OSU appears in a New Year’s Six (or successor) bowl game, Gundy will get $125,000. He also gets that for appearing in the conference championship game. If he wins a conference championship game, or in the case of that game not existing, he participates in a College Football Playoff Semifinal, the bonus is increased to $150,000.

In addition, if Gundy leads OSU to a CFP national championship game, he is awarded $350,000. That number is bumped to $750,000 if he wins

a national championship.

Many bonuses are tagged with an “or successor” disclaimer to ensure they are not irrelevant if the Big 12 or the College Football Playoff are disbanded and a new conference or playoff format emerges.

If Gundy terminates his contract without prior written permission from Weiberg, there will be a hefty buyout. In 2022, the buyout is $5 million. That increases to $6 million in 2023 and beyond. To put that in perspective, USC coach Lincoln Riley’s buyout at Oklahoma was $4.5 million.

sports.ed@ocolly.com

Joshua Cleary OSU safety Kanion Williams regularly builds his personal brand with the club, including the Brand Squad helping him create his “Ask a Cowboy” series.

even playing field.

“One of the things that a lot of people said when NIL started happening was, ‘Well, where does that leave the students? Like, yeah, you’re helping student-athletes but what are the actual students getting out of it?’” Rashawn said.

“So, I think something like this really helped kind of answer that question. We’re getting an opportunity that really I don’t think we would have gotten from anywhere else.”

Combining student-athletes with “regular” students in an assortment of business, marketing and sports management degrees allows both to mutually benefit. Athletes having a group dedicated to improving their NIL potential.

Students created a venue to hone their marketing skills in an environment

Rashawn described as better than an internship.

The success stems from a passion for sports.

Bollig grew up playing numerous sports and was a golfer in high school.

White swam for 12 years and became interested in following sports after meeting Bollig.

Rashawn loves the NBA (watching the Oklahoma City Thunder, her favorite team, fall apart was especially difficult for her). Kuzmeski’s son, Shane, played hockey at Clarkson University in New York and currently is trudging through the Colorado Avalanche’s minor league system.

While not required, most members of the Brand Squad are passionate about sports Read full story at ocolly.com

O’Colly

Friday, April 29, 2022 Page 5B

sports

Softball decks provide a home field advantage Gabriel Trevino Staff Reporter

ready for it.’” Four years later, Fletcher and those who occupy the left field decks continue to heckle and mock the visiting team’s outfielders.

The community built on the wooden slabs continues to grow. Fans consistently attend games, bring their own drinks and local restaurant owners bring food to serve for the tight-knit faction.

Many around the program attribute the increase in fan attendance to be in direct correlation with the team’s recent success. Gajewski took over as head coach in 2015, and has watched over his seven year tenure as crowds grow while his team improves year to year.

“These are some of the biggest crowds we’ve had here,” Gajewski said.

“We sell a lot of seats and the decks are packed. This is turning into an event.

This is one of the coolest tickets in town.”

For senior catcher Taylor Tuck, a Stillwater native who remembers attending games even before Gajewski’s time as the head coach, describes the surroundings as a whimsical dream.

“When I was little it was never like this,” Tuck said. “We struggled to fill up (the seats) and now it surrounds the whole stadium. There’s even a lot of little girls wanting autographs after games. It’s surreal, I’m a hometown kid and I grew up coming to these games. It means a lot to me.”

Despite the modest number of seats, Fletcher and the hundreds who reside beyond the outfield of Cowgirl stadium on spring weekends try to create an environment worth the price of admission.

“This clearly isn’t the biggest stadium,” Fletcher said. “But they found a way to add more fans and make the atmosphere more fun and competitive.

This isn’t the highest attendance but teams don’t like to come here. We’re doing the right thing.”

Katie Cimusz could hardly contain her laughter.

Standing in left field, Cimusz tried to focus on the game. Instead, a fraction of the Texas’ left fielder’s attention directed behind her, toward the outfield decks of Cowgirl Stadium and the pestering OSU softball fans eager to disrupt the opposition’s concentration.

Cowgirl Stadium typically seats 450 people, but since the 2018 season, OSU added three wooden decks beyond the walls of the outfield. With the addition of the decks, the total capacity of Cowgirl Stadium increased to hold more than 1,000 people.

The decks began as a way for parents and fans to watch games from a different vantage point.

During the 2018 season, Matt Fletcher, the husband of former player and current OSU assistant coach Vanessa Shippy, went to his garage, compiled pieces of wood and crafted three benches. Feltcher, along with 11 other friends and family members of the OSU softball team, stood on the benches and watched the game along the left field fences.

With the season’s conclusion and after many more fans joined the original crew on the benches, OSU coach Kenny Gajewski invested in his supporters’ enjoyment, building the two large decks which now sit in the grass beyond the left field wall.

“Eventually it turned into such a good environment that Kenny (Gajewski) got the money together and built these decks,” Fletcher said. “It is so much fun. We even make it into the scouting report, they mention ‘left field sports.ed@ocolly.com is going to talk to you, you have to be

Collection...

Branson Evans Cowgirls outfielders Chelsea Alexander (left), Chyenne Factor (center) and Katelynn Carwile (right) hype one another up before the final inning

“She’s won twice this semester Channel. and I’ve won twice. We just Turning heads in Stillpush each other to get better water everyday.”

Two seasons ago, EugenContinued from 1B The competitive nature of io was far from Stillwater. the two siblings from Madrid, In the COVID-19 shortThat’s how his favorites Spain, is nothing new. When ened 2019-20 season, Eugenio are determined. the two are on their respecwasn’t even enrolled at OSU. “I have a lot of (favortive college campuses they are He was a blooming star in the ites). I’d say the avocado one, 1,127 miles apart. When they Wake Forest lineup. the cow one is up there. I play meet in the offseason back Then, in the offseason, well with them.” Chacarra said. home they get right back to Chacarra, the 2019 ACC Fresh“It’s funny and people like it. I competitive golf, but this time man of the Year, transferred like all types of socks.” with each other. to OSU. Sibling love “We are competitive all “I wanted to be with After winning the Amer the time. We are really close,” the best and where the Ari Invitational, Chacarra Eugenio said. best go,” Chacarra said. made a phone call.

Eugenio normally wins, “So I felt like OklahoCarolina Chacarra, Eubut the two still enjoy taking ma State was the place genio’s sister and a freshman time to compete with each for me to get to the golfer at Wake Forest, was on other to keep the rust off durnext level as a golfer. the receiving end. ing the offseason.

I’m very excited to be Eugenio won the Amer “It’s actually really hard here and happy to help Ari, hosted in Waimea, Hafor me to win,” Carolina told the team get our goals.” waii, on Feb. 5, the next day GolfChannel.com, “I have to Chacarra wasted Carolina would tee off at the play my best golf and he has to no time impacting the UCF Challenge in Orlando, miss a couple of shots in order lineup.

Florida. for it to be tight, but it takes He played in 13 of the The sibling pair may have the best out of me. He’s usually Cowboys’ 14 tournaments in been more than 4,600 miles going to the 2020-21 season. He finapart at the time of the phone ished with seven top 10’s call, but the message was including his best clear. finish at the N.I.T. “I said, ‘I just did where he tied it now you go out for second. and do it,” EuHe regenio rememcorded bered. the And best she did.

After ending 19-under-par, Carolina secured her first collegiate win four strokes over second place.

The next event, score she did it for the again, winning Cowboys the Darius Rucker in six of the Intercollegiate at tournaments 4-under, two shots better he played in. than the field.

However, someCourtesy of OSU Athletics Two weeks after Carothing still didn’t feel right lina’s second win of the season, win by for Eugenio.

Eugenio matched his sister’s eight shots, but it’s always nice His short game was total by winning the N.I.T, to train in that struggling. He wasn’t comfortwhile wearing his special avo- environment.” able. cado socks.

Eugenio though says In the offseason he went “We’re really close and Carolina challenges him as back to Madrid and grinded, we practice a lot when we’re well. fighting to find the right feel. home. We had a great pre“She can play and she The fall semester arrived, season together,” Eugenio said. bombs it,” Eugenio told Golfand with it came four tourna-

ments for the Cowboys.

Eugenio played well. He didn’t have a round worse than a 72, but only had one round under 70. Two top 10 finishes were added to his record book and he moved on into the spring season, where he and the Cowboys

“During Christmas I worked a lot on my short game,” Eugenio said. “Finally after three years struggling on the greens I feel pretty comfortable. I went to a new putting style with the broomstick and it’s feeling good. I’m hitting the ball as well as I normally do and I’m making some putts.”

The success has culminated in a tie for sixth finish at the Big 12 Championship on Wednesday and awards flowing his way.

On April 13, Eugenio shocked the golf community.

As a senior he was Chris Becker ranked in the top-5 of garthe PGA University ranknered ings giving him an automatic national championship-level spot on the Korn Ferry Tour praise. following his graduation.

Eugenio met the expectaInstead he announced his tions coming out of the gate, return to OSU for the 2022-23 he was cruising. In the first season honoring his original spring tournament this season commitment to the program. he paired a final round 62 with “I am convinced that an a 67 and 68 to win the Amer additional year of hard work Ari Invitational for his first in Stillwater will allow me to collegiate victory. continue to grow academically With those three straight and personally, which will rounds under 60, Chacarra only prepare me better for the started a streak. His next six PGA Tour and my professional rounds were all in the 60’s and career,” Eugenio said. both of them earned him topOn April 11, he was one 10 finishes. of 16 golfers named to the “He’s been playing like Haskins Award Watch List and that for a while now,” Brian on April 15 he was tabbed as Stark, a junior golfer, said. “He a semifinalist for the Hogan switched to a different putting Award, two of the most presstyle and it’s working pretty tigious awards for collegiate well for him. He has a lot of golf. confidence in himself.”

“Being a finalist as A first round 74 at the one of the top 3 best players General Hackler Championin the country is something ship ended the streak of nine special like all the hard work straight rounds, but his success is paying off. Being in the was far from over.

Haskins and Hogan final three He won the event after is something I always have in the General Hackler, then fol- my objectives,” Eugenio said. lowed that with a second-place “I’m excited to see how the finish. season ends. I know I have a The spring was a success big chance of winning both for Eugenio, more than just his awards.” scores, he found his groove “It’s something every around the greens. golfer wants to do.”

After a long and grueling experiment, he was comfortable. sports.ed@ocolly.com

Page 6B Friday, April 29, 2022

Brumbaugh, freshmen filling void for Cowboys Ivan White Staff Reporter

performance throughout the last couple of weeks.

“He’s been playing really well,” Thompson said. “He’s already been on the road, too, in West Virginia. A guy like that always has a joke or something to say, which is always fun.”

While the Cowboys have needed freshmen to be ready for their number to be called, guys such as Riggio and Zach Ehrhard have been integral to the team’s success all season.

Riggio has been good in his 31 appearances this season and is third on the team in home runs with five.

Meanwhile, Ehrhard has emerged as a key piece for the future with 38 hits in 129 at-bats, both good for fourth on the team.

Although it may be unusual for a top 10 team to have so many contributions from its freshmen class, Thompson said it is nothing more than his teammates buying in.

“When we’re in practice, everybody is pushing each other to make each other better,” Thompson said. “And you just see everybody working so hard that it’s easy to get behind guys that work so hard and stuff like that.”

One of the typical traits of an elite college baseball team is experience, but the OSU baseball team has shown it’s not a requirement.

With a variety of Cowboys going in and out of the lineup this season, some of the freshmen have stepped up in a big way.

The most recent example of this is freshman Cayden Brumbaugh.

In the absence of fellow freshman Roc Riggio.

The infielder has come away with five hits over the last five games, including a three-hit performance against West Virginia.

“He’s done a good job, his at-bats have been very good,” coach Josh Holliday said. “He’s a good, smart hitter, good swing, he can sting the ball. He’s got some hand strength when he hits the ball, gets good jump on the ball. (I’m) really proud of how hard he’s worked on his defense.

(He’s) really improved defensively, so pleased with him for sure.”

Albeit a small sample size, Brumbaugh currently has the team’s best batting average at .400. Brumbaugh’s teammate, Jake Thompson, also spoke glowingly about the freshman’s sports.ed@ocolly.com

sports

Going bananas

Courtesy of David Mendham OSU first baseman David Mendham participated is several of the Savannah Bananas unique traditions as a member.

Mendham’s unorthodox summer in Savannah

Ben Hutchens Staff Reporter

Karisa Sheely In place of Roc Riggio, second baseman Cayden Brumbaugh in one of several freshmen making an instant impact for OSU.

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)

O’Colly

David Mendham isn’t big on dancing.

That’s what makes the summer Mendham, OSU’s first baseman, played with the Savannah Bananas interesting.

In 2020, Mendham played with the Bananas, a Georgia collegiate summer ball team founded in 2016 known more for its out-of-thebox entertainment than baseball. The Bananas’ motto is, “Fans First.

Entertain Always. All Inclusive.”

The Bananas do it all: Pitchers wear stilts while throwing, allow fans in the stands to catch a foul ball for an out and even having former MLB pitcher Jake Peavy take the mound wearing his Golden Glove.

“The number one quote that I heard before taking the job with the Bananas is if it’s normal, do the exact opposite,” Bananas coach Tyler Gil-

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.

lum said. “That’s kind of our marketing motto in a lot of different ways.

Because in business, if you’re doing the same thing everybody else is doing. Nobody’s going to pay attention to you.”

There were few summer ball baseball teams playing in the middle of a raging pandemic. Gillum, from Ada, Oklahoma, said he was looking in the area for a player to add to the Savanah roster. Mendham put up numbers in JUCO at Connors State and could play multiple positions and was offered a spot.

Mendham said he knew a little about the Bananas’ wackiness and accepted a spot on the team with one stipulation.

“I told him I wouldn’t do the dancing and all that,” Mendham said.

Mendham said he had a blast playing in Savannah, but he stuck to his word, not partaking in a single choreographed routine the whole season.

“I don’t know (why I didn’t dance),” Mendham said. “I’m not big into that.”

Gillum explained

everybody, regardless of dancing ability, has a role on the Bananas.

The team does all of the entertainment a Tik Tok account with 2.4 million followers documents at home games. On the road, the team plays normal baseball.

Pitchers do the most dancing because they might be off that night or only used in later innings. Position players like Mendham aren’t asked to do as many theatrics because they are actively playing in the game.

Mendham said the most bizarre thing the Bananas did when he was there was play a game in kilts. Savannah has one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the United States. To connect with the city, Bananas owner Jesse Cole called Gillum asking if he thought playing in kilts was doable.

Gillum tested the traditional Scottish garb in practice to ensure it didn’t hinder performance. It didn’t, so the Bananas ordered 30 custom yellow kilts.

“The first summer it was kind of like, ‘What are we doing?’”

Gillum said. “But now it’s expected, the guys know we’re going to do it. And some of the pitchers they’re like, ‘Dude, it’s a lot freer to pitch in this than in baseball pants.’”

OSU coach Josh Holliday said the type of baseball the Bananas play and the type of baseball he was raised on “Might be the two most polar opposite in baseball philosophy to ever walk the face of the Earth.” But he also said the Bananas have a place in the sport.

The Bananas dance and David Mendham does not.

As much as their styles might clash, both Mendham and the Bananas got something out of the 2020 season.

“You get (players) out of their comfort zone, which is good,” Gillum said. “I think that’s beneficial to all of us. In all walks of life anything we do when we get out of our comfort zone we grow, and we become better people and we realize a lot of those things aren’t near as bad as we thought they were.” sports.ed@ocolly.com

O’Colly

Friday, April 29, 2022 Page 7B

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

Located on 121 E. 9th Ave, Downtown Stillwater The best selection of beer, wine and liquor that Stillwater has to offer! Perfect for all your game day needs, come to Brown’s Bottle Shop located on 128 N. Main “The Original Hideaway, located on the corner of Knoblock and University.

Serving quality pizza and more since 1957.”

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

FOR RELEASE APRIL 29, 2022

Los Angeles Times Daily Crossword Puzzle

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Labor Position Available

108 RV Storage needs helper with mechanical skills.

Welding skills a plus.

Tasks include cleaning vehicles, repair and moving stuff. 10 flex hours per week during weekdays. Call Richard 405-377-7101

Full & Part-Time Call Leon at 405-880-2785

DID YOU KNOW..

O'COLLY MEDIA GROUP

THE O'COLLY Daily Online Edition Print Edition Every Friday 8,000 Copies Printed & distributed on OSU Campus & Stillwater Community Display Advertising and Classified Advertising is available.

WWW.OCOLLY.COM The OMG! website averages around 60k users/month.

Our website features all OMG! content in one place including news, sports, photo, and video.

Clickable display web ads are available for purchaseanalytics can be tracked and reported.

TWITTER We are active on twitter sharing all of the latest news, our daily online edition of The O'Colly, and all other OMG! Content. We have almost 20k followers.

Twitter Advertising is available.

O'COLLY TV O'Colly TV is available on Apple TV, ROKU, Amazon Fire Stick, App Store & Google Play.

O'Colly TV features live programming including a weekly newscast, sports shows, and events.

Orange Pages, the OMG! Business Directory, is the sponsor of all programming on O'Colly TV.

BUNDLES SAVE MONEY and reach our limitless community by signing up for our highly discounted bundles. These include consistent advertising on all platforms listed above plus additional perks and discounts.

ONLY $250/MONTH

Daily Horoscope ads@ocolly.com

Nancy Black Tribune Content Agency Linda Black Horoscopes Today’s Birthday (04/29/22). You’re a rising star professionally this year. Disciplined routines and coordination prepare for career success. Springtime epiphanies illuminate solutions to support a partner through summer changes. Love, romance and partnership deepen and grow this autumn, motivating personal improvement next winter. Enjoy rising influence and success.

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

Aries (March 21-April 19) — Today is a 9 — Profit through communications, with Mercury in Gemini. Study inspiring subjects. You’re learning voraciously. Creativity abounds. Write and edit. Share your message far and wide.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) — Today is a 9 — Enjoy the spotlight. The next three weeks get especially lucrative, with Mercury in Gemini. Use creativity, intellect and intuition for extra silver. Negotiate favorable terms.

Gemini (May 21-June 20) — Today is an 8 — Consider possibilities. Enjoy an advantage over about three weeks, with Mercury in your sign. You’re especially brilliant. Get the word out regarding a personal passion.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) — Today is an 8 — Get inspired by the talent of others.

Creativity and imagination abound over the next three weeks, with Mercury in Gemini. Dream up wonderful plans.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) — Today is a 9 — Focus on career. Friends can open new doors. Team communication and coordination thrive, with Mercury in Gemini for several weeks. Get social and have fun.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) — Today is a 9 — Explore options. Your professional influence grows through communications, networking and connections over the next three weeks, with Mercury in Gemini. Stretch your wings.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) — Today is an 8 — Work together for shared gain. Explore, research and study. Expand frontiers, with Mercury in Gemini for three weeks.

Investigate and summarize your discoveries.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) — Today is a 9 — Collaborate and grow stronger together. Monitor finances, with Mercury in Gemini. Discuss priorities and strategies. Manage applications and paperwork. Grow shared profits over three weeks.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) — Today is an 8 — Nurture health and fitness.

Partnership grows in communication, with Mercury in Gemini for three weeks.

Learn from someone brilliant. Invent exciting possibilities together.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) — Today is an 8 — Listen to your heart. Share work, health and fitness solutions, with Mercury in Gemini. Talk about ways to grow and expand. Connect with trusted experts.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) — Today is an 8 — Get artistic, passionate and creative.

It’s easier to express your heart, with Mercury in Gemini over three weeks.

Romance and fun arise in conversation.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) — Today is a 9 — You can solve a puzzle. Domestic communications blossom over three weeks, with Mercury in Gemini. Discuss home renovation possibilities. Have fun with your family.

Edited by Patti Varol and Joyce Lewis

ACROSS 1 Swedish pop group with the 2021 album “Voyage” 5 Gels 9 Manhattan Project project, briefly 14 Moved smoothly 15 Country that outlawed alcohol in 1979 16 Home of the world’s tallest building 17 Throw hard 18 Disney title character from Hawaii 19 Like cellared wine 20 Group of apartments made of gingerbread?

23 Fall for 24 Convention giveaway 25 Card game with a Pixar version 28 Worship leader 31 Trio for Bergman and Streep 35 Gang made up of very light eaters?

38 Keep hidden, perhaps 39 Skirt 40 Letter from ancient Troy 41 “Three Tall Women” playwright 42 __ chic 43 Logo designer’s day-to-day existence?

45 Like some jokes 47 “__ it obvious?”

48 Hard-to-prove skill 49 Soft ball 51 Toon spinner 53 Cute, furry problem for Captain Kirk?

59 Roadster since 1989 60 Part of a plot 61 Tarot’s swords, e.g.

63 Heavy metal bar 64 Crypto.com Arena statue honoree, familiarly 65 Corner 66 Brownish gray 67 Folk singer Axton 68 Simple cat toy

Level 1

4/29/22

By Ryan Hecht & Doug Peterson

DOWN 1 2022 Australian Open winner Barty, familiarly 2 Bummed out 3 Jay or oriole 4 Surprise the director, maybe 5 “Wow, I am dumb!”

6 Empire State county 7 Puff stuff 8 Elitist 9 Rolls with the punches 10 Taps, say 11 Tony’s cousin 12 Tailless pet 13 Not insignificant 21 Complete a LEGO set 22 Synthesizer pioneer 25 Kabayaki fish 26 Bond player in the original “Casino Royale” 27 Yamaha products 29 Pretentious 30 Heat setting?

32 “Three Billboards ... ” actress Cornish

2

3

Thursday’s Puzzle Solved

©2022 Tribune Content Agency, LLC

33 Sailing hazards 34 Quite expensive 36 Two-piece piece 37 Remnants in a crayon box 41 Sacred stand 43 Tesla, e.g.

44 Hush-hush 46 Pre-election event 50 Superhero who taps into the Speed Force

4/29/22

52 Hot 53 Mother of Beyoncé and Solange Knowles 54 Trattoria sauce 55 Unoriginal reply 56 DVD holder 57 Special glow 58 Management level 59 I.M. Pei’s alma mater 62 Score half

4

4/29/22

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, April 29, 2022

sports

Ship...

Continued from 1B

Courtesy of Caleb Etienne Caleb Etienne (middle) poses with his son, Caleb Jr. (left) and his girlfriend, Sataizha Buckner White (right) after OSU’s spring finale on April 23.

Etienne finding football inspiration in girlfriend, son Adam Engel Staff Reporter

Before Caleb Etienne played a snap at OSU, he searched for motivation.

Weeks after arriving in Stillwater, his motivation was born. Literally.

After home games, Etienne trots off the field, removes his helmet and gazes toward the stands, searching for his now eight-month-old son — his reason to keep playing.

Amid a congregation of fans at the spring finale a week ago, Etienne held his son, Caleb Jr. in his arms. Etienne hugged his girlfriend, Sataizha Buckner White.

“It’s motivation so that’s somebody who I’m gonna go work hard for every day,” Etienne said.

“That’s my why.”

To Etienne, his role, his home and his responsibilities are new. Much like off the field, he’s improving daily. Since moving to Stillwater in June, Etienne slowly figured out a new style of play.

O’Colly

He spent his freshmen and sophomore years at Fort Scott Community College and Butler Community College in Kansas. Butler did not play a single game during his sophomore year because of COVID-19.

Unlike his Cowboy teammates, he didn’t have any chances for development.

“I had a long break, so I just had to grind and just get in my playbook,” Etienne said. “It took a toll on me. I just had to trust the process and leave it up to the man above.”

Caleb Jr’s birth marked an entire change in Etienne’s life.

After spending time in junior college, his goals were soon to be realized.

“It makes me happy,” Buckner White said. “I know he wanted this for a long time obviously coming from JUCO and being here living his dream. It’s great to see him finally get acknowledged and be able to just play the sport that he loves.”

In his first year at OSU, Etienne appeared in three games. He needed to make extra conditioning efforts to adjust to Big 12 football. He cut 40 pounds since the summer and immersed himself into the playbook.

Etienne and Buckner White work together, caring for Caleb Jr. Buckner White is an online student at OSU-Tulsa, allowing time with her son.

“The baby is with me when he’s at practice but once he’s out of practice, he helps out and we’re just together,” Buckner White said. “We manage it well.”

With the conclusion of spring football, coach Mike Gundy sees plenty of improvement from Etienne.

“He doesn’t overact, doesn’t panic and he can become more aggressive, which we all know all he’s got to do is be just somewhat aggressive,” Gundy said. “He’s going to be in good shape because of how big he is.”

sports.ed@ocolly.com

“She’s an AllAmerican at multiple positions here, catcher and infield,” Gajewski said.

“It’s just unheard of.”

Shippy-Fletcher possesses what Gajewksi calls “care factor.” It is a team-first mentality he hopes all players pick up on. Gajewski believes Shippy-Fletcher changed the course of OSU softball with it.

The stats back that up. In 2014, the year before Shippy-Fletcher arrived at OSU as a player, OSU went 26-28. The year after Shippy-Fletcher left, 2019, OSU won 45 games and went to a College World Series.

“We can talk about Sam Show, and Carrie (Eberle) and what she’s done,” Gajewksi said.

“But let’s back up. The person that changed the mentality of this program was Vanessa. The way she selflessly did something that wasn’t for the betterment of her.

It was for the betterment of our program. That’s the change in our program that we all don’t need to forget.”

Shippy-Fletcher is a popular coach among the Cowgirls. Players said they relate to her, and three veterans on the roster, Sydney Pennington, Chelsea Alexander and Michaela Richbourg, even played with her for a year in 2018.

During games, Shippy-Fletcher is the first base coach. During the week, she often works with outfielders.

Her role goes far beyond collecting elbow pads at first base and encouraging OSU batters who made it to first.

Haley Busby, a senior outfielder who has played almost every position in college, relates

to Shippy-Fletcher’s vagabond role in the defensive lineup.

“I think Shippy has taught me a lot in the past few years, and honestly a lot in the past couple months,” Busby said. “Just trying to figure my swing out. Figure out what position I’m going to play and kind of be ready to play in the outfield, be ready to play in the infield. She’s been really supportive through the entire process.”

Busby said ShippyFletcher is not afraid to speak her mind. When she sees something she can improve, she attacks it. Her assertive nature is not something she has had to foster. ShippyFletcher has always been like that, even as a freshman. Gajeswki said, at first, she was not easy to coach.

“As a young head coach coming into a program that was abysmal, I couldn’t fathom why she would question everything,” Gajewski said. “It irritated me. It didn’t hit me until after my first year that I want to coach every player just like that.”

“Once I figured it out, once I learned that, she made coaching her be one of the most enjoyable experiences I ever had.”

Shippy-Fletcher, who batted .404 in her career and is a two-time Big 12 Player of the Year, challenges everyone around her to be better.

“I love working with Shippy,” sophomore outfielder Katelynn Carwile said. “I think for me, she holds me to the highest expectation and standard. She pushes me to be better every day and I’m more than grateful for that. I think it’s turned me into the softball player that I am today.”

Shippy-Fletcher’s husband Matt watches every Cowgirl softball game from the stands in left field, a place he helped build up from some roughhewn, homemade wooden benches into two-tiered, spacious decks. They have a baby son, Luke, who is in tow at most games.

Busby, who occasionally babysits Luke and has been known to swing by the infant clothes section at Walmart to buy OSU shirts for him, said she is grateful to have a personal relationship with Shippy-Fletcher.

“For her to be able to come back and step into this role in a place where she feels is home and where Matt feels is home and where Luke is going to grow up, it’s exciting to watch,” Busby said.

Senior Morgyn Wynne, a transfer from Kansas, said she talks with Shippy-Fletcher about what it means to be a Cowgirl and the mental side of softball.

Wynne said ShippyFletcher has helped her acclimate to OSU and through the ups and downs of her streaky year.

“I look up to Shippy, and so it’s been really cool getting to work with her in my time here,” Wynne said,” Gajewski said he is appreciative that she left her coaching job at Syracuse to take a volunteer role. He said he sees Shippy-Fletcher being a head coach one day.

“Having her here is a blessing,” Gajewski said. “We give her more and more each day because she just communicates very, very well with our kids. They seem to really respond to her. That’s a luxury.” sports.ed@ocolly.com