Pride edition. The Signpost 6-4-24

Be Bold, Be oud, Be Gay

ide Edition

By MEGAN SWANN

Section Editor

While each day in June marks another day in Pride Month, this year, it also marks another day closer to the end of the LGBTQ+ Center on Weber State University’s campus.

The center’s upcoming closure on July 1 is in response to House Bill 261, passed earlier this year, which states that higher education institutions cannot participate in any practices that are based on identity, including any kind of diversity, equity and inclusion practices.

Because of this, the LGBTQ+ center, Black Cultural Center, Native American Cultural Center, Hispanic & Latino Cultural Center, Pan-Asian Cultural Center, Pasifika Cultural Center, Dream Center and the Women’s Center will all be required to cease operation on July 1.

Instead, Weber State announced that these centers will merge into a new Student Success Center, which will focus on giving individualized support to students. Jessica Oyler, vice president for student access and success, explained that this center will be a catch-all for student needs.

Jessica Fisher, the program coordinator of the LGBTQ+ Center, said that she will now move to become a student engagement program manager in the new Student Success Center, as will the other program managers from the rest of the cultural centers.

Oyler explained that in this new role, program managers will help point students in the right direction and create programming to help promote a feeling of connection on campus.

Since this transition had to happen so quickly, many details are still being worked out, Oyler said.

Some of these unclear details include how the LGBTQ+ resources are going to be transferred over. Fisher said that she is not sure what exactly it is going to look like right now, but that she hoped certain resources like the binders, shapewear and resource guides that

she wrote and published would be available in the new center. She said that more information should be available soon as the program managers will meet to discuss programming on June 11.

“For the upcoming school year, I’m just waiting to see how students react and how students feel and try to follow their lead and try to support them as best as I can,” Fisher said.

On May 28, the LGBTQ+ Center posted an announcement on their Instagram informing followers that their website will come down June 28 and their social media will follow on June 30 leading up to the closure.

Fisher serves as the adviser of Weber’s Gender and Sexuality Alliance, which will be allowed to continue as it is a non-sponsored student club. Because advising the club is volunteer-based, and not connected to her role as the LGBTQ+ Program Coordinator, she will still be able to continue in this role.

Brandon Flores, currently working as the executive director of belonging, said there was a lot of discussion among many depart-

ments leading up to this decision. He said that one of the top priorities was ensuring that employees of these centers would be moved to different roles and job descriptions on campus, including student employees.

He said they landed on this model after watching what several other state schools had done in response to similar legislation. They didn’t want to do too little and lose state funding as a result.

“That’s one of the main reasons I said I support the president in what he does because he’s looking out not only for our students, but also for our staff,” Flores said of President Mortensen’s decision. “Is it the ideal scenario? I don’t know if it is, but at this point, we can’t change the law or what’s been thrown at us.”

Flores hopes that the new model will improve the retention and success of students as it might provide an even better way to connect with the right resources and get exactly the help they need.

“In a way, it does feel like lemons have been thrown at us and we’re having to make

lemonade out of it,” Flores said. “But I think that saying could be a good one because even though something might not seem great to begin with, we can still create something that is of value and that we enjoy and it’s a positive thing.”

Fisher said that she has already met with a few students who are concerned about this change, and that she is open to talk with anyone who has questions or concerns. She’s also encouraging students to research the data and testimonies surrounding individual identity centers.

“Look at the research, look at the benefits it brings to students and then any one individual person can look at that research and then think about what happens if seven identity centers are coalesced into one center. I’m sure there are positives as well as negatives,” Fisher said.

She also said she supports students advocating for what they need at every level on campus, starting with program managers and going all the way to Mortensen or the board of regents.

“Our goal is that all students feel like they have a place to go to be connected to resources and really feel that space of belonging. And if that’s not where we are, I absolutely want feedback of how we can do that better moving forward,” Oyler said.

While the help these cultural centers provide is moving to the Student Success Center, what will become of the physical spaces these centers are housed in is still unclear.

Oyler assured that the scholarships given out by these cultural centers will still be available, just with adjusted wording so they abide by the law.

“The switch from multiple identity-based centers to one Student Success Center is a big change for many students, but we’re optimistic about our goal to focus on the individual. That’s something Weber State has always been known for. Now, we’re putting even more focused effort and resources behind it,” Bryan Magaña, director of public relations for Weber State, said in an email.

SARA STAKER | The Signpost

Yellow note at the exhibit telling members of the LGBTQ+ community to “Love who you love.”

LEFT: The LGBTQ+ center is located on the third floor of the Weber State University Shepard Union Building.

BOTTOM LEFT: A sign in the Stewart Library pointing out that members of the LGBTQ community often hide who they are, and reminding them that they are loved.

BOTTOM RIGHT: LGBTQ+ flags placed inside of the LGBTQ+ Center at Weber State University.

By MEGAN SWANN Editor

Aunque cada día en junio marca otro día en el Mes del Orgullo, durante este año también marca otro día que está más cercano el fin del centro LGBTQ+ en el campus de la universidad Weber State.

El cierre venidero del centro el primero de julio viene a respuesta al propuesto de ley 261 de la Cámara estatal, aprobado anteriormente este año, que declara que ninguna institución de educación mayor no puede participar en ninguna práctica basada en la identidad, incluyendo cualquier tipo de práctica de la diversidad, equidad e inclusión.

Por eso, es requerido que el centro LGBTQ+, y los centros de la cultura negro, americano nativo, hispanico y latino, pan-asiano, pasifika, el centro dream y el centro de la Mujer, se cierran el primero de julio.

En su lugar, Weber State anunció que estos centros se unirán a un nuevo centro de éxito estudiantil, que se enfocará en el apoyo individualizado para estudiantes. Jessica Oyler, la vicepresidente del acceso y éxito estudiantil, explicó que este centro será un recurso universal para necesidades estudiantiles.

Jessica Fisher, el coordinador de programa del centro LGBTQ+, dijo que ahora ella cambiará a ser la administradora del programa de compromiso estudiantil del nuevo centro de éxito estudiantil, y así cambiarán los otros administradores de programa del resto de los centros culturales.

Oyler explicó que en este nuevo papel, los administradores ayudarán a guiar a los estudiantes a la dirección adecuada y crear recursos que ayuden a promover un sentimiento de conexión en campus.

Debido a la transición rápida, muchos detalles todavía necesitan solucionarse, dijo Oyler.

Algunos de estos detalles que no están claros incluyen cómo los recursos LGBTQ+ se van a transferir. Fisher dijo que ahora no está segura exactamente cómo va a ser, pero espera que ciertos recursos, como las carpe-

tas, la ropa interior y guías que ella escribió y publicó, estarán disponibles en el nuevo centro. Dijo que más información debe estar disponible pronto porque los administradores se reunirán para discutir los recursos el once de junio.

“Para el año escolar venidero, estoy esperando a ver cómo reaccionan los estudiantes y cómo se sientan y trataré de seguir su ejemplo y apoyarlos lo mejor que pueda”, dijo Fisher.

El 28 de mayo, el centro LGBTQ+ publicó un anuncio en su instagram que informó a los seguidores que su sitio web se cerrará el 28 de junio y sus redes sociales seguirán el 30 de junio, poco antes del cierre del centro. Fisher sirve como la consejera de la alianza del género y la sexualidad de Weber, la cual será permitida continuar porque es un club estudiantil que no es financiado por la escuela. Ella también puede continuar en este papel debido a que el club está basado en el voluntariado y no está conectado con su papel como el coordinador del programa LGBTQ+.

Brandon Flores, quien actualmente trabaja como el director ejecutivo de pertenencia, dijo que hubo muchas discusiones entre varios departamentos antes de la decisión.

Dijo que una de las más altas prioridades era asegurar que los empleados de estos centros mudarían a otros papeles y puestos en campus, incluyendo los empleados estudiantiles.

Dijo que eligieron este modelo después de ver lo que hacían varias otras escuelas estatales en respuesta a legislación similar. No querían hacer lo insuficiente y perder la financiación estatal por resultado.

“Ese es una de las principales razones por qué dije que apoyo al presidente en lo que hace porque él cuida no solamente por nuestros estudiantes, sino también por nuestros empleados”, Flores comentó también de la decisión del presidente Mortensen. “¿Es este el escenario ideal? No sé, pero en este momento, no podemos cambiar la ley ni la situación en la que nos metemos.”

“De alguna manera, Sí siente como los limones se nos lanzan y ahora tenemos que hacer limonada”, dijo Flores. “Pero creo que ese dicho es apropiado porque aunque algo no parezca bueno al principio, todavía podemos crear algo valioso que disfrutamos y es positivo”.

Fisher dijo que ya ha comunicado con algunos estudiantes que están preocupados por este cambio, y ella está disponible

a hablar con cualquier persona que tenga preguntas o preocupaciones. También está animando a los estudiantes a investigar los datos y los testimonios sobre los centros de identidad.

“Mira la investigación, mira las ventajas que proporciona a los estudiantes. Cualquiera puede ver esta investigación y después pensar en lo que pasa cuando siete centros de identidades se fusionan en uno solo. Estoy seguro de que hay positivos también como negativos”, dijo Fisher.

Ella también dijo que apoya que los estudiantes propongan lo que necesiten en cada nivel en campus, empezando con los coordinadores de programa hasta el presidente Mortensen o la junta directiva.

“Nuestra meta es que todos los estudiantes sientan que tengan un lugar al que puedan ir a estar conectados a los recursos y realmente sentir ese espacio de pertenencia. Y si no estamos ahí, por supuesto quiero escuchar comentarios de cómo podemos hacerlo mejor a continuación”, dijo Oyler.

Aunque el apoyo que proveen los centros culturales se muda al centro de éxito estudiantil, lo que pasará con los espacios físicos en que están estos centros todavía no está claro. Oyler aseguró que las becas dadas por los centros culturales todavía estarán disponibles, solamente tendrán formulación ajustada para que sigan la ley.

“El cambio de varios centros basados en la identidad a un solo centro de éxito estudiantil es un cambio grande para muchos estudiantes, pero estamos optimistas sobre nuestra meta de enfocarnos en el individuo. Eso es algo por lo que Weber State siempre ha sido conocido. Ahora enfocamos aún más esfuerzos y recursos en eso”, dijo por email Bryan Magaña, el director de relaciones públicas de Weber State.

SARA STAKER

The Signpost

Letters written to encourage the LGBTQ+ community at Weber State University.

POR NATHANAEL STOUT Traductor

By TENAYA HYDE Reporter

Many events are occurring throughout Utah this month to celebrate Pride. While the yearly Utah Pride Festival in Salt Lake City already occurred on June 1-2, the following events will continue to celebrate Pride throughout the rest of the month.

The Utah Pride Center, based in Salt Lake City, is an epicenter for all things Utah Pride. Every Wednesday from June 12-26, the center will host a movie night from 5:30-8 p.m.

“You are invited to a space where cinematic exploration meets LGBTQ+ celebration. Queer Movie Nights is a drop-in group showcasing and analyzing queer narratives on the silver screen. From noteworthy documentaries, historical gems and modern flicks; this group curates a selection of films that explores the LGBTQ+ experience,” the center’s website said.

The Utah Pride Center also currently offers a

weekly board game night. This weekly game night is held Thursday evenings from 5:307:30 p.m. at the center, located at 1380 S. Main St., Salt Lake City. For more information and further details, see the center’s website.

Ogden is quickly becoming another Utah hub for the LGBTQ+ community and supporters. This June you can celebrate by taking part in a Pride bar crawl at The L.A.B. at 2432 Washington Blvd. in downtown Ogden. The bar crawl will be taking place on June 22 from 4-11 p.m., and tickets will give participants free access to over four venues. The check-in time is from 4-6 p.m. Tickets are being sold through Eventbrite.

“It’s a joyful expression of inclusivity and acceptance. As we hop from one iconic venue to the next, you’ll be immersed in a sea of rainbow flags, glittering costumes and infectious enthusiasm. Each stop on our crawl is carefully selected to provide an exhilarating experience, from specialty pride-themed cocktails to lively entertainment that will

keep the party going all night long,” the hosts wrote in the Eventbrite description.

Finally, join the community for the first annual SLC Pride Festival on June 29 from 3-10 p.m. and June 30 from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. at The Gateway, located at 400 W. 200 S., Salt Lake City. The event’s website lists a silent disco,

HOURLY

breakfast, vendors and entertainment as some of the activities to be held during the festival. Tickets are free for children 17 and under, and cost $5 for adults 18+.

Utah Pride banner hanging up at the opening concert of the Utah Pride festival.

By WIKTORIA KOLODZIEJCZYK Reporter

The Ogden Twilight Concert Series at the Ogden Amphitheater stands out as a mustsee show. Ogden Twilight not only brings musicians and fans from all over Utah but also keeps the entire community entertained by providing a spectacular lineup of artists in a festival-like atmosphere.

The series sets out to “make world-class music accessible to everyone in the commu-

nity” according to the official Ogden Twilight Instagram account. Whether you are an indie fan, prefer rock legends, want to experience electronic beats or just celebrate the local talents, Ogden Twilight has something for everyone and a lot of concert options to choose from. This year, the Ogden Twilight Concert Series will host special guests from Germany, Canada and beyond.

Even if you’re not familiar with the artists, the official schedule provides a great opportu-

nity to explore new music, discover amazing talents and immerse yourself in the music scene.

The festival is not only about the music; it’s a full-blown family and friends affair. One of the most unique aspects of the Ogden Twilight Concert Series is that the shows take place regardless of the weather. All you need to worry about is dressing comfortably and having fun. The doors open at 5 p.m., which gives the audience plenty of time to explore the local array of food vendors before the music kicks off at 6 p.m.

Tickets for the show are required for anyone ages 4 and older and need to be purchased through 24tix.com. For the latest updates and more information, visit www.ogdentwilight.com and check out @ogdenamphitheater and @ogdentwilight on Instagram.

On the right you can find more information about musicians that are going to perform at Ogden Twilight Concert Series:

Ogden Twilight Concert Series

July

July

Aug. 8

Aug. 14 - St. Vincent

ater and

Aug. 23 - Alvvays with The Beths and Homephone

Aug. 29 - Thievery Corporation with Dirtwire

Sept. 6 - Broken Social

Sept. 13

Concert goers in front of the stage at a concert.

June 22 - Cannons with Washed Out and Die Shiny

5 - Ben Böhmer with Tinlicker and Alex Cruz

6 - Diplo with Gioli & Assia and Sootah

- Killer Mike & The Mighty Midnight Revival / Hippo Campus

with Earthe-

Daytime Lover

Scene with Harpers

- Tycho with CRi

By COOPER HATSIS Asst. Section Editor

Pride Month is here, and for many that means celebrating individuality through parades, parties, concerts and much more, but it can also be time to check out some of the great Pride-related storytelling from filmmakers.

Films that express stories about gender, sexuality and identity have become more prolific and prevalent to the modern moviegoing experience, with films such as 2016’s “Moonlight” winning best picture. Now more than ever is the best time to celebrate queer films. Here are a handful of contemporary LGBTQ films that are sure to go down as classics for you to watch this Pride month.

1. All of Us Strangers (2023)

“All of Us Strangers” expresses a feeling of loneliness that few other films can. Director Andrew Haigh pulls no punches as he explores complex queer themes of loss for a childhood that may have never even existed. This film features a remarkable performance from Andrew Scott who plays Adam, a screenwriter, who develops a relationship with his mysterious neighbor Harry, played by Paul Mescal. The film focuses on the relationship between these two men and Adam’s relationship with his parents, which is presented in a dream-like manner. The film blends drama and fantasy in a way that adds cinematic weight to the reflective nature that is brought to the table. “All of Us Strangers” expresses feelings of grief and overcoming loss through this queer story. “All of Us Strangers” is currently streaming on Hulu.

2. Bottoms (2023)

Emma Seligman’s satirical comedy “Bottoms” works as both one of the best comedies from last year, but also as one of the best Pride-related films from last year. The film stars Rachel Sennott and Ayo Edebiri as two high school students who start a womens’ self-defense fight club in order to get closer to the love interests of the film. “Bottoms” takes a more absurd and dramatic approach to its comedic storytelling, with over-the-top

performances by the whole cast (including a performance by none other than football star Marshawn Lynch) and countless visual gags. “Bottoms” is a coming of age story that pulls inspiration from many of the teen comedies that dominated the genre in the ‘80s and ‘90s. “Bottoms” can currently be found on Amazon Prime Video.

3. I Saw The TV Glow (2024)

Jane Schoenbrun’s “I Saw the TV Glow” is the newest film on this list. This film manages to play into elements of horror, drama and coming of age, placed prominently in a nostalgia-fueled late ‘90s and early 2000s world. The film tells the story of socially-awkward high-schoolers Owen and Maddy who create a bond over a late-night cult TV show called “The Pink Opaque.” Through the use of this

bizarre TV show that is more than it seems, Schoenbrun is able to express a fascinating story about gender identity and sexuality. Though it proved a polarizing film coming out of this year’s Sundance Film Festival, make sure to join the conversation and catch “I Saw the TV Glow” as it concludes its theatrical run in June.

4. Pariah (2011)

“Pariah” from filmmaker Dee Rees first premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 2011 and is arguably one of the most important independent films from the 2010s. This film follows the story of Alike or “Lee” as she develops her identity as a lesbian. The emotional core of the film comes down to Alike and her relationship with her mother and father, who struggle to accept the change happen-

ing in their daughter’s life. “Pariah” tells not only a LGBTQ+ story but also the story of a Black teen growing up to choose her own path independent of expectation, cementing the fi lm as a classic amongst its audience. “Pariah” is currently streaming on Amazon PrimeVideo.

5. Tomboy (2011)

It was difficult to pick just one Céline Sciamma film, but “Tomboy” deserves the spotlight as an underrated gem from her fi lmography.“Tomboy”isafilmabouta10-year-old girl named Laure who has recently moved to the suburbs of France with her family. Laure quickly becomes friends with the other chil-dren in the neighborhood who mistake her for being a boy. She uses this opportunity to change her identity from Laure to “Mickaël” when she is around her friends. The film explores themes of gender non-conforming identities, the way children interact with each other, and the way that children interact with their parents.

Ian Foreman in a scene from “I Saw the TV Glow.”

Bottom: Justice Smith and Brigette Lundy-Paine appear in I Saw the TV Glow by Jane Schoenbrun, an official selection of the World Dramatic Competition at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival. Courtesy of Sundance Institute.

Top: From left, Ayo Edebiri, Rachel Sennott, Zamani Wilder, Summer Joy Campbell, Havana Rose Liu, Kaia Gerber and Virginia Tucker in “Bottoms.”

Right: Ayo Edebiri, left, and Rachel Sennott in “Bottoms.”

By BRAYSON BROWN Reporter

Boston Celtics vs. Indiana Pacers (4–0)

The Boston Celtics demonstrated their dominance and prowess by sweeping the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference Finals. They were led by game one hero and Eastern Conference Finals’ Most Valuable Player, Jaylen Brown, who averaged 29.8 points per game.

The Pacers, without star player Tyrese Haliburton for games three and four, were no match for the mighty Celtics, who lost only two games total throughout their trip to the finals. One loss to the Miami Heat in round one, and then one loss to the Cleveland Cava-

Tyrese Haliburton #0 of the Indiana Pacers dribbles the ball during the second quarter in Game Two of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Boston Celtics at TD Garden on May 23, 2024 in Boston, Massachusetts.

NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.

(Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)

liers in round two.

Indiana came in as a No. 6 seed and fought all the way to the conference finals by knocking off the Milwaukee Bucks led by Weber State Alumni Damian Lillard in round one, then eliminating the number two ranked Knicks in seven games.

The clock struck midnight on their Cinderella story and turned back into the proverbial pumpkin. The depth, star power and 3-point sharpshooting by Boston was too much to handle.

The Celtics now head to the NBA Finals for the second time in the last three years and are seeking their first Championship since 2009.

Dallas Mavericks vs. Minnesota Timberwolves (4–1)

The Dallas Mavericks outlasted the Minnesota Timberwolves in the Western Conference Finals. Dallas, having arguably the best backcourt in history with Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving, seemed to have their way with any kind of defense Minnesota threw at them.

The Timberwolves were the No. 1-rated defensive team in the league and had Defensive Player of the Year winner Rudy Gobert as their anchor. But even with all the stats and trophies received by Minnesota, they were no match for the pick and roll style offense that the Mavericks have perfected.

Dončić averaged 32.4 points per game along with 8.2 assists and 9.6 rebounds and was nominated as the Western Conference Finals MVP. There is no doubt Dallas would

have one with Kyrie Irving on the roster.

Irving, a veteran with dribbling handles blessed by the basketball gods, had been perceived as a diva and bad teammate on past teams. Irving had a point to prove and has taken shotgun while Luka Dončić takes the reins of the organization.

Irving had clutch shooting all series and put up 36 points in the closeout game to send the Timberwolves packing. The Mavericks were not afraid of the Timberwolves and proved that they were all bark, but no bite.

Dallas will now face the Boston Celtics in the NBA finals, seeking their first title since 2011 with game one taking place on June 6 at the TD Garden in Boston.

POR

NELLY HERNANDEZ TEJADA Traductor

By BRAYSON BROWN Reportero

Boston Celtics contra los Indiana Pacers (4–0)

Los Boston Celtics demostraron su dominación y valentía ganando contra los Indiana Pacers en el Eastern Conference Finals. Fueron guiados por un héroe y el jugador más valorado del Eastern Conference Final, Jaylen Brown, que promedió 29,8 puntos cada juego.

Los Pacers, sin su gran jugador Tyrese Halliburton por el tercer y cuarto juego, no pudieron comparar contra los poderosos Celtics, que nada más perdieron dos juegos total durante su tiempo durante los finales. Una pérdida contra Miami Heat en la primera ronda, y luego una pérdida a los Cleveland Cavaliers en la segunda ronda.

Indiana llegó en sexto lugar y lucharon hasta los finales de la conferencia ganando contra los Milwaukee Bucks guiados por el exalumno de Weber State Damian Lillard en la primera ronda, eliminando a los Knicks

que estuvieron en segundo lugar en siete juegos.

En total, los influyentes y tiros de tres puntos hechos por Boston era demasiado para ellos.

Los Celtics ahora llegan a las finales de la NBA por segunda vez en los últimos tres años y están buscando su primer campeonato desde 2009.

Dallas Mavericks contra los Minnesota Timberwolves (4–1)

Los Dallas Mavericks pudieron aguantar a los Minnesota Timberwolves en el Western Conference Finals. Dallas, teniendo posiblemente el mejor defensa en historia con Luka Dončić y Kyrie Irving, pareciendo tener su propia manera con cualquier tipo de defensa Minnesota tuvo.

Los Timberwolves fueron el equipo defensivo número uno en la liga y tenían a Rudy Gobert, el ganador del Jugador Defensivo del Año, como su ancla. Aunque tuvieron todos estas estadísticas y trofeos recibidos por Minnesota, no pudieron luchar contra el estilo de ofensiva que perfeccionaron los Mavericks. Dončić tenía un prome-

dio de 32,4 puntos por cada juego con 8,2 asistencias y 9,6 rebotes y fue nominado como el Jugador Más Valorado del Western Conference. No hay duda que Dallas pudiera tener a Kyrie Irving en la lista.

Irvin, un experto con un manejo de la pelota bendecido por dios, era percibido como una diva y un mal compañero en equipos del pasado. Irving tenía algo que probar y ha tomado un papel secundario mientras que Luka Dončić guía a la organización.

Irving tiraba lanzas a la canasta un todo la serie y puso 36 puntos en el juego para que los Timberwolves perdieran. Los Mavericks no les tenían miedo a los Timberwolves y probó que perro que ladra, no muerde.

Dallas ahora van a ir contra los Boston Celtics en las finales de la NBA, buscando su primer título desde 2011 con el primer juego el 6 de junio en el TD Garden en Boston.

Boston Celtics center Al Horford (42) and Dallas Mavericks center Dereck Lively II (2) reach for the opening tip during the first half of an NBA game, Monday, Jan. 22, 2024, in Dallas.

Top: Karl Anthony Towns (32) of the Minnesota Timberwolves during Game 5 of the NBA Western Conference finals at Target Center.

Bottom: Portland Timbers defender Claudio Bravo (#5) splits between Bobby Wood, left, and Maikel Chang (#16) of Real Salt Lake during an MLS at Providence Park in Portland, Oregon on Saturday, April 23, 2022.

By COLLYN COWLES Reporter

REAL SALT LAKE ON A TEAR IN THE MLS

Real Salt Lake faced off against Austin FC on June 1 in a Western Conference showdown, bringing them to a 13-game winning streak.

Riding a 12-game unbeaten streak, RSL, led by MVP candidate and goal-scoring leader Christian “Chicho” Arango, was determined to extend their success. Arango, who had already scored 13 goals this season, added three more to his tally, bringing him up to 16 goals on the year. His performance was complemented by teammate Anderson Julio, who scored two goals, leading to a

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dominant 5–1 victory.

The Colombian striker opened the scoring in the 16th minute with an incredible goal from half-field, a feat that quickly gained acclaim on social media as a potential “goal of the year.” This early goal set the tone for the match, and Arango continued to showcase his skill with another goal just before halftime, contributing to a commanding 4–0 lead at the break. Julio’s two goals further solidified RSL’s control over the game.

A pivotal moment came in minute 71 when a Video Assistant Referee check overturned an Austin goal due to a handball, resulting in a penalty for RSL. Arango converted the penalty to complete his hat trick, putting him

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just one goal short of Alvaro Saborio’s regular season record of 17 goals for RSL. Although Austin managed to score a consolation goal in second-half stoppage time, it did little to dampen RSL’s celebratory mood.

This victory marked Real Salt Lake’s 13th consecutive game without defeat, their longest streak since 2010 when they went 18 games unbeaten. The team now sits firmly in first place in the Western Conference, 3 points clear of Los Angeles Football Club, boasting the league’s best goal differential at plus-17.

“We haven’t won anything yet,” Head coach Pablo Mastroeni said, emphasizing the need for continued hard work and vigilance.

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The Signpost is a student publication, written, edited and drafted by Weber State University students. Student fees fund the printing of this publication. Opinions or positions voiced are not necessarily endorsed by the university. The Signpost reserves the right to edit for reasons of space and libel and to refuse to print any letters. Letters should be submitted online to thesignpost@ weber.edu and read letter to the Editor in the subject box. Letters should not exceed 350 words.

“Every game from here on out is going to be very difficult,” Mastroeni said. “Teams are going to prepare for us differently, so the onus is on us to be one step ahead.”

RSL has a two-week break before a hectic schedule of three matches in eight days, starting with an away game against C.F. Montreal on June 15. This will be followed by another road match against Kansas City and a homecoming at America First Field against the LA Galaxy on June 22. The team’s recent success has set high expectations, and fans eagerly anticipate their continued pursuit of glory in the MLS season.

MASTER OF SCIENCE