The Vista April 08, 2010

APR 8,2010 Campus Quotes

Journalism Hall of Fame

Hybrid Learning

Welcome Back

Students tackle the age-old question, should marijauna be legalized?

Page 2.

New members will be inducted Friday in the Nigh University Ballroom.

Page 3.

Find out what it is.

Page 5.

Track & Field is reinstated after an eight-year absence.

Page 7.

uco360.com twitter.com/uco360

THE VISTA

UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL OKLAHOMA’S students voice since 1903.

Liberal Arts

By Jack Chancey / Staff Writer Starting this July, UCO’s criminal justice program will become a stand-alone unit within the College of Liberal Arts.

Faculty is still working on planning the program before its start this summer. Before the change, criminal justice was under the sociology department. It will now become the School of Criminal Justice.

“As for student impact, we will be offering a new crime/ intelligence analyst-type master’s degree in probably about a year,” Dr. Don Mizell, professor in the criminal justice program, said, The new degree will offer specific training in new technologies like crime mapping. As of now though, the School of Criminal Justice does not have any new academic positions approved for hire or advertisement.

Oklahoma Commissioner of Public Safety, and UCO graduate, Kevin Ward said he is excited to see the change and believes the move is a step in the right direction to make UCO a leader in the criminal justice field.

Mizell said the new approach will provide a great deal more visibility to the criminal justice program at UCO. “I believe it will, in combination with the Forensics Institute, produce national-level attention to the criminal justice degree and related training offered at UCO,” Mizell said.

UCO stands to become a leader in the region in the criminal justice field. Its location next to the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation lends itself to become an active partner with the OSBI in getting students placed in internships and practicum courses. UCO’s new Forensic Science Institute offers a different sort of curriculum, but the two programs together will act as an anchor to catapult UCO as one of the leading institutions in the region.

“Another area that UCO would like to pursue is creating a process that allows agencies to give feedback on the kinds of specific skills that they are looking for in their new hires,” Gary Steward, assistant dean in the College of Liberal Arts, said.

The feedback will be invaluable to students and give the program a chance to make curriculum changes that reflect the needs of the criminal justice community, Steward said.

Mizell anticipates there to be coordination with state and local agencies in relation to training that UCO might be able to sponsor.

UCO has had a criminal justice undergraduate and master’s program since the 1970s. The program became a part of the Department of Sociology in the College of Liberal Arts, and teaches in areas such as substance abuse, violent offenders and sex offenders.

“Both programs were established in the 1970s as a means of educating criminal justice professionals,” Steward said.

“Due to ‘professionalization’ in the criminal justice, the cre-

PHOTO BY GARETT FISBECK

IL LUS T R AT IO N BY S T E V EN H Y DE

CRIMINAL JUSTICE MAKES A BREAK

Dr. Mizell, professor in the criminal justicer program, believes an independent criminal justic program will make the criminal justice program more visible at UCO.

ation of UCO’s criminal justice program was a response to the growing demand for education, as education has always been a central component to ‘professionalization,’” Steward said.

Classes in the School of Criminal Justice will start in the fall, and the school will continue working with the Department of Sociology, offering classes through that department.

Health Care

HEALTH CARE REFORM IMPACTS STUDENT OPTION

By Ryan Costello / Staff Writer For the last several months, health care reform has dominated the political landscape as the sweeping legislation slowly crawled through Congress to its eventual signing March 23.

Already fast becoming the most polarizing issue of President Barack Obama’s first term, the health care reform bill has prompted

WEATHER TODAY

monumental response from both sides of the aisle, ranging from political subterfuge, both Tea Party and town hall rallies, and the best ad campaigns millions of lobbyist dollars can buy.

Unfortunately, when the knee-jerk political reaction to such heavily covered legislation has all the subtlety of a volley of bricks through a district building window, such as the barrage laid upon Democratic Rep. Louise

Slaughter’s Rochester, N.Y. office on the eve of the House’s vote on health care, the public focus tends to fall on the backlash rather than the comparatively drawl subject matter of the law itself.

More specifically, the ways in which the new legislation will touch students has been lost in the talking heads’ translation. So, for college students, what precisely does the health care bill mean?

The Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act was lumped in with the recently passed legislation, but the language in the health care bill has definite implications for student insurance concerns as well.

The most immediate effect on students is a federally mandated extension on the age limit through which students and young adults

Continued on page 4

Photographic Trends

H 70° L 4 0°

By Jenefar DeLeon / Staff Writer

TOMORROW H 77° L 45°

More weather at www.uco360.com

DID YOU KNOW? Only one child in 20 is born on the day predicted by the doctor.

After claiming bankruptcy for the second time, the new owners of Polaroid are looking to create a new image by adding Lady Gaga to the family.

Polaroid announced on January their partnership with Lady Gaga, who will serve as the creative director for a specialty line of Polaroid Imaging Products.

PLP IP Holdings LLC, the new owners of the Polaroid brand, said this will be a multistrategic partnership as reported in a recent press release. The partnership brings together one of the world’s most iconic brands of photography with one of today’s fastest rising musical artists and trend setters, Lady Gaga.

The partnership with Lady Gaga is the most recent announcement made by PLR since it took over in 2009 after the original owners, Petters Group Worldwide, claimed bankruptcy for the second time. Minnesota businessman Tom Petters was indicted on charges of running a $3.5 billion Ponzi scheme. Petters purchased Polaroid in 2005 for $426 million after Polaroid claimed bankruptcy for the first

time.

The company was then sold for $85.9 million, including all assets of Polaroid, such as brand name and existing products, to a joint venture bid of Hilco Consumer Capital and Gordon Brothers Brands.

Hilco and Gordon Brothers then venture to form PLP IP Holdings LLC. In the past six month, PLR has assembled, marketed, and produced new lines of Polaroid products, as well as added new partners including Lady Gaga to the family.

Her strings of global hits include “Paparazzi,” “Bad Romance” and “Poker Face. “ Worldwide, she has sold more than eight million copies of her debut album, “The Fame.” She is considered one of music’s biggest breakout stars of the last decade.

Polaroid began more than 70 years ago with polarized sunglasses, instant film, cameras and camera accessories. In the past years, the company has expanded to televisions, DVD players and more. It has been the recognizable name of instant photography.

Continued on page 3

PHOTO BY GARETT FISBECK

POLAROID SHOWS POKER FACE

Polaroid has filed for bandruptcy twice, and has resumed film production due to renewed demand for the film.

OPINION

2

Editorial

100 North University Drive Edmond, OK 73034 (405)974-5549 editorial@uco360.com

The Vista is published as a newspaper and public forum by UCO students, semi-weekly during the academic year except exam and holiday periods, and only on Wednesdays during the summer, at the University of Central Oklahoma. The issue price is free for the first copy and $1 for each additional copy obtained.

EDITORIALS Opinion columns, editorial cartoons, reviews and commentaries represent the views of the writer or artist and not necessarily the views of The Vista Editorial Board, the Department of Mass Communication, UCO or the Board of Regents of Oklahoma Colleges. The Vista is not an official medium of expression for the Regents or UCO. LETTERS The Vista encourages letters to the editor. Letters should address issues and ideas, not personalities. Letters must be typed, double-spaced, with a maximum of 150 words, and must include the author’s printed name, title, major, classification and phone number. Letters are subject to editing for libel, clarity and space, or to eliminate statements of questionable taste. The Vista reserves the right not to publish submitted letters.

Address letters to: Editor, The Vista, 100 N. University Dr., Edmond, OK 730345209, or deliver in person to the editor in the Communications Building, Room 131. Letters can be e-mailed to vistauco@gmail.com.

STAFF

Management

Editorial

Kory Oswald, Editor-In-Chief Elina Golshani, Copy Editor Chris Wescott, Sports Editor Ryan Croft, Web Editor

Tiffany Brown, Senior Staff Writer Jenefar De Leon, Staff Writer Ryan Costello, Staff Writer Jack Chancey, Staff Writer Rahul Preeth, Staff Writer Prashanti Ganesh, Staff Writer Harish Murali, Staff Writer Anuj Srivas, Staff Writer

Design Steven Hyde

Advertising Kris Graham Brittany Koster

Photography

Circulation

Editorial Comic

Stephen Hughes

Prakriti Adhikari

Adviser Mr. Teddy Burch

Garett Fisbeck

Administrative Assistant Tresa Berlemann

CORNETT SHOULD REVERSE THE DRIVE FOR A LE MANS IN OKC

By Tiffany Brown / Staff Writer Attempting to bring a grand prix race during current economic conditions could be devastating to Oklahoma’s economy.

Oklahoma City Mayor Mick Cornett has been increasing rhetoric about a grand prix race in Oklahoma since 2005, but his idea never materialized.

However, on April 9 the Oklahoma City Council approved a proposal that would allow the city manager to enter into negotiations that could eventually lead to the city holding an American Le Mans Series racing event as early as 2011.

Cornett and other state officials could be taking a huge risk that could further damage Oklahoma’s already struggling economy.

The cost of hosting a grand prix could reach as much as $150 million. Cornett, City Manager Jim Couch, and other city officials are saying the ALMS grand prix would generate about $25 million dollars a year for Oklahoma’s economy and local businesses downtown, but they have yet to produce the cost of such an attraction. According to local Congress members, Oklahoma had to cope with a loss of nearly $2 billion in 2010 due to the economy. Some of the state’s rainy day fund has been depleted in an attempt to make up for budget downfall.

Despite the state’s lagging economy − which has caused local programs such as

‘‘

cians saying the major source of income is coming from the oil and gas industry?

In January 2010, the government released a projected economic outlook for the state up until the year 2015. The report stated, “In FY 2011, revenues are projected to be well below the level of expenditures, resulting in the request that departments cut their same service level budget by 12 percent in FY 2011.

In future years, it also appears departments will be making reductions annually to keep the budget balanced.”

According to the report, revenues are expected to grow 3.2 percent while expenditures are projected to increase by 4.5 percent. Based on this trend, the government has expected the gap between revenues and expenditures to reach $4.5 million. Under financial strains, adding additional expenditures such as the ALMS grand prix, instead of tightening the budget by cutting spending, will lead to greater financial strain if the economy does not improve. Even if the state does have the money to afford how much it would cost to host an ALMS grand prix, the financial reward may not be immediate. Rod Tidwell said it best in Jerry MaGuire, “Show me the money.” In the midst of this recession, government officials should assess the budget before attempting to spend money on any new expenditure, such as the ALMS race, that cannot guarantee a profitable return for the state.

CAMPUS QUOTES

Do you think marijuana should be legalized? Why or why not?

MATTHEW GOSSOM

Senior-Graphic Design

“Yes, because right now people are exploiting loopholes.”

By Prakriti Adhikari / Cartoonist

the senior citizens’ nutrition programs to be shut down − state officials and some residents such as Brad Lund believe the ALMS event would bring money to the state. According to the Tulsa World, Lund cited “the city’s success in hosting events including the Women’s College World Series, Big 12 Conference and NCAA basketball tournaments and a Davis Cup tennis event.”

Murray Evans, an Associated Press writer, attributed the following statement to Lund: “‘I said this before the Thunder came: I believe Oklahoma City is the premier special-event market in the country,” Lund said. “Our track record backs that up. … There’s something about this market that is different than most, in that people here want you to succeed.’”

Oklahoma successfully had grand prix style events in the early 1900s, and events such as NCAA Big 12 and the NBA Thunders have brought many tourist to the state. This has given Oklahoma the opportunity to diversify its taxes, bringing in additional money to the state.

Yet, Oklahoma has not been unscathed by the ongoing recession. In spite of what city officials are reporting, sporting events have not proven to be a major source of income for the state. If it had been, why is Oklahoma facing a major budget shortfall along with other states in the nation? And why are politi-

‘

THE VISTA

JOSH SALLEE

Senior-Advertising

“Yes, because alcohol kills hundreds of thousands of people each year, and it’s still legal.”

ASHLEE MADISON

Graduate Student-Jazz Studies

“Yes, because it’s been used for thousands of years for medicinal purposes such as reducing nausea and helping appetite.

When you smoke weed, it makes you more aware, unlike alcohol.”

KAYLEE BERKE

ALYCE VIGIL

TREY FAIRLESS

Freshman-Speech Pathology

Junior-Museum Studies

Freshman-Marketing

Do you think marijuana should be legalized? Why or why not?

Let us know at twitter.com/uco360.

“No, because it’s not safe for your body.”

“No, because the benefits do not outweigh the risks.”

“Yes, because they are not going to win the war against it.

People are going to do it anyway.”

NEWS

3

International

UCO OFFICIALS TRAVEL TO UNIVERSITIES IN CHINA; AN EXCHANGE PROGRAM ESTABLISHED

By Tiffany Brown / Staff Writer Six representatives from the University of Central Oklahoma traveled overseas in an effort to establish a long-lasting partnership with Chinese universities.

Last spring, on May18-June 1, representatives traveled to South China Normal University in Guangzhou, Xi’an International Studies University in Xi’an, Northwest University in Xi’an, Daqing Petroleum Institute in Daqing, and Zhejiang Normal University in Zhejiang.

Representatives included: Dr. William Radke, Dr. Richard Bernard, Dr. Wei Chen, Dr. Xiao-bing Li, Dr. Pamela Washington and Timothy Kok. While in China, officials provided current information about UCO to students, faculty and staff attending the five universities.

Also, UCO officials provided personal interview and pre-departure orientation to participants and met with parents of students who wanted to attend UCO, in an effort to address any questions or concerns, Kok said.

“We established and strengthened our relationship between two institutions by visiting with the executive and administrative officials of the universities,” Kok said.

“After that particular trip and two followup trips [I took] subsequent to that, there were 39 Study USA visiting students and four exchange students from these Chinese universities for fall 2009,” Kok said. The trip was a huge success. This semester, 21 Study USA students are at UCO. UCO and Chinese officials at the five universities established several initiatives.

In regards to exchange students, “This is a reciprocal agreement between two universities where a Chinese university would send students to UCO and UCO would send students to their university,” Kok said. “The students would pay the home institution tuition.”

As for Study USA visiting students, “This is the largest group of Chinese students of all the agreements we have,” Kok said. “The students would attend UCO for one or two semesters

PHOTO BY GARETT FISBECK

“Not only are we here to help promote UCO to the world, but we are here to care for whatever needs [exchange students] have, ranging from academic, immigration, employment, activities, cultural issues and so forth,” Timothy Kok

Mo Zhou,left, is one of 60 students recruited from 1 of 5 Chinese schools visited by Dr. Li, right, and others. Nearly 131 Chinese students are enrolled at UCO this semester.

and pay UCO tuition. Most of the students in this program will be provided with [a] partial scholarship.”

Typically, exchange students study at UCO for one or two semesters.

“They do not stay to earn a UCO degree since they are not degree-seeking students,” Kok said.

“However, some students[who] are here during their senior year of their bachelor’s degree. So, after completion of their one-year program at UCO, they could earn their home institution bachelor’s degree which then allows them to qualify to apply for UCO graduate programs,” he said.

Kok described how beneficial the exchange program has been.“During their tenure here, I have...witnessed many of them develop and improve their English proficiency,” he said “Their short stint at UCO helps develop their interpersonal skills while shaping their confidence and self-esteem before they step into the career life.

Most students enjoy their experience.

“I have heard so many of the exchange and visiting students compliment [us] on how caring and nice the UCO professors have been to them, the great friends they have from all over the world, and certainly the nice campus and great city they live in here,” he said.

According to Kok, almost all of the Chinese students he has spoken [are] sad about going home after this semseter.

“Not a single one of them had regretted coming here,” he said.

Many students have said the opportunity to study at UCO is a life-changing experience they will never forget, Kok said.

Recently, American Democracy Project hosted an event where students had the opportunity to discuss both Chinese and American cultures and traditions. Li explained the relationship of both. “There is a gap between the two different cultures,” he said.

“They can bridge the gap by learning the other’s tradition, society, and technology. They can bridge the gap by exchanging their ideas and experiences. They can bridge the gap by

Polaroid continued from page 1

Celebration

HONEREESS TO BE INDUCTED DURING 40TH HALL OF FAME ANNIVERSARY

By Anuj Srivas & Prashanti Ganesh / Staff Writers

Gean B. Atkinson, CEO at Atkinson Advertising Associates in Oklahoma City and a graduate from University of Central Oklahoma, is one of the nine journalists who will be honored during the 40th Anniversary Celebration of the Oklahoma Journalism Hall of Fame, hosted by UCO on April 9.

The Oklahoma Journalism Hall of Fame honors the credentials and contributions of journalists around the state. It is administered and supported by UCO, the Ethics and Excellence in Journalism Foundation, and the Oklahoman Newspaper Foundation.

Atkinson has held senior-level military and business and political positions in journalism, in which he got both his master’s and bachelor’s degrees. He has authored three books, hosted radio shows, served in the Oklahoma Legislature and as a governor’s communications director.

He was also a Vietnam veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps and the director of the Joint Information Bureau of the United Arab Emirates during Operation Desert Shield/Storm, efforts to solve crises and restore Kuwait’s sovereignty through military forces as Navy captain.

Atkinson sponsors the Gean B. Atkinson Scholarship for Advertising Excellence to students of UCO’s College of Liberal Arts. The scholarship funds journalism majors who study advertising or public relations.

making new friends,” he said.

Li also spoke about how students from diverse culture can benefit by uniting.

“Students will be better prepared for a global leadership role by learning about different cultures such as China,” he said.

“They are not only just learning the different culture, but they are understanding it, able to engage with it, can comfortably interact with different people and work successfully with them,” Li said.

“In the world of intensifying globalization, each country is transforming itself so that it is better able to promote opportunities for development and growth,” he said.

Also, Li discussed the role of universities.

“Higher education assumes a leadership role in elevating the next generation to the forefront of globalization,” Li said.

“This leadership will not only contribute to securing our state’s long-term prosperity, but also greatly enhancing the esteem of Oklahoma’s higher education in general,” he said.

“More tradition-oriented Oklahoma colleges like UCO, for which the challenges of the ever-expanding globalization are undoubtedly greater, must respond to the phenomenon with new efforts.

“To achieve a better understanding of the ongoing globalization and growing diversity of our university, it is crucial for students to have both an appreciation for other cultures and the skills to interact with the different peoples,” Li said.

Currently, International Services is working to make UCO more diverse.

“We always try to do our very best to open our doors to assist and advocate for them in whatever way we can, and at the same time, advising them against any wrongdoings during their tenure here at UCO,” Kok said.

“The biggest joy for all the advisers and myself is to witness them succeed and excel in their studies at UCO and eventually becoming successful citizens, be it in the U.S. or anywhere around the world,” Kok said.

“UCO did so much for me that I’m delighted now to help those who show promise in the field of advertising and public relations,” Atkinson said to The Journal Record.

The growth and accomplishments of UCO makes Atkinson proud, and that is a key reason for him to fund the scholarship.

“UCO is one of Oklahoma’s educational treasures,” Atkinson said. “It has made quality higher education available to thousands of Oklahomans.”

“It is an honor for an award-winning advertising professional like Gean to invest in our students,” Pamela T. Washington, dean of the UCO College of Liberal Arts, said to The Journal Record. “As a well-known and respected civic leader, we are proud to call him an alumnus and friend.”

The other inductees of the Journalism Hall of Fame include Mike Boettcher, CNN correspondent; Susan Boling Ellerbach, managing editor of the Tulsa World; Ray Dyer and Sean Dyer, co-publishers of the El Reno Tribune; Melba Lovelace, columnist for the Oklahoman; Andy Rieger, managing editor of the Norman Transcript; Bill Sherman, religion writer for the Tulsa World; and Jack Stone, retired executive editor of the Anadarko Daily News.

Founded in 1971 by former Journalism Chairperson, Dr.Ray Tassin, the Hall of Fame will be inaugurated in its new location in the Nigh University Center on April 9. A luncheon will follow at 11:45 a.m., which is expected to be

Stephen Hughes, UCO Photography Lab coordinator said he is not surprised about Polaroid’s new actions to regain its company’s image and increase sales profit.

“I may not agree of who they chose, but it benefits the company,” he said. “Several other companies use other musicians.

Polaroid is now following what other companies have been doing for years.”

Lady Gaga made a special appearance at the Polaroid booth at the 2010 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas soon following Polaroid’s partnership announcement.

Polaroid has even been seen in one of her latest music videos, “Telephone.” Polaroid is reported saying her products will generate 30 percent of future products sales. She promotes Virgin Mobile as well.

In a Polaroid press release, Lady Gaga said she is proud to be part of Polaroid’s team. “The Haus of Gaga has been developing prototypes in the vein of fashion/technology/photography innovation – blending the iconic history of Polaroid and instant

“I love Polaroid products,” Hughes said.

“They have always been known of being creative and experimental. Lady Gaga is just part of it.”

Atkinson is among nine journalist to be honored during UCO”s Oklahoma Journalism Hall of Fame event

attended by more than 200 journalists, friends and family members.

“The annual ceremony has become an informal homecoming for honorees and families,” Dr. Terry Clark, Director of Journalism Hall of Fame and journalism professor, said. “The Hall includes a virtual ‘who’s who’ of Oklahoma journalism, and the crowd will be filled with giants of the profession.”

Mark Thomas, executive vice president of the Oklahoma Press Association, will be the master of ceremony. UCO President Roger Webb will provide the welcome address.

film with the digital era – and we are excited to collaborate on these ventures with the Polaroid brand. Lifestyle, music, art, fashion: I am so excited to extend myself behind the scenes as a designer, and as my father puts it, finally have a real job.”

Polaroid since then has made a partnership with Summit Global Group. The deal covers the making and distribution of a wide variety of Polaroid products, including video cameras and PoGo mobile products. The deal is for five years, and the company is expected to bring $1.3 billion in retail.

“I love Polaroid products,” Hughes said. “They have always been known of being creative and experimental. Lady Gaga is just part of it.”

Hughes said that if it benefits the consumers, especially photographers, then it has possibilities. But he expects it to be popular for a while, then it will die down.

“I am happy to see Polaroid back,” he said. “They have a long history of providing quality film and excellent cameras and accessories.”

New products by Polaroid and Lady Gaga are to hit retail shelves starting in late 2010.

4

NEWS

APRIL 8, 2010

Remodeling

Health Care continued from page 1

VINEYARD VARIETIES VARY ACROSS STATE PHOTO BY ERIC RISEBERG

could remain on their parents’ insurance plans.

The previous limitations were that at 23 years of age, a young adult could no longer remain with a parent’s provider, and in cases where the “child” was not a full-time college student, was married, or had a dependant of his or her own, the age limit was as low as 19.

Under the new legislation, which will take effect in just under six months, the “child” will be able to remain on a parental insurance policy until the age of 26, regardless of enrollment or marital status.

Before the 71 percent of UCO students that are beneath the age of 26 are able to rejoice, however, some experts have a handful of caveats to express.

In an open e-mail regarding the implications of the new health care policies on young adults, John Scott, president of Bailey Agencies Inc., a Connecticut-based insurance provider, said Congress “missed the boat” on the development of the bill’s language. “[The] language for student health insurance is horribly vague. … The new age 26 rule allows a “child” to stay on mom and dad’s plan through to their 26th birthday. Period. There is no other language, requirements, or reasons for someone to replace coverage,” Scott said.

Scott said the age 26 rule has the potential to cripple student health plans due to a bottom-out in policy enrollment numbers.

In this photo taken Jan. 24, 2010, shown is a bottle and glass of the house 2004 Scala Another issue Scott raised is that in many

cases, student insurance plans are less expensive than the plans they would remain on with their parents.

James Allen, assistant director of Health Promotion at UCO, echoed the sentiment that staying with a parental plan would not be a bargain.

“I agree that for many students it will likely be cheaper to go on to a college health plan vs. remaining on mom and dad’s policy,” Allen said in an e-mail to The Vista.

Academic HealthPlans Inc., the student insurer for the university, did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

One rebuttal to the same argument by reform supporters is that the age 26 rule helps fill the postgraduation insurance gap.

In a presentation to the students of the University of California’s Santa Barbara campus, Rep. Lois Capps said graduating students will no longer have to “scramble for coverage after graduation,” if while lining up career options they remain with their parents’ insurance plans.

And once students, mostly today’s freshmen, do find that first career position following graduation, they will definitely have access to an oft-coveted benefits package. Starting in 2014, mid- and high-level companies will be required to offer benefits that meet the same minimum coverage standards that will become mandatory in the same year.

Cabernet Sauvignon wine at the Bistro Don Giovanni restaurant Napa, Calif., Sunday, Jan. 24, 2010. The Napa Valley wine is made for the restaurant by Bob Pepi.

When shopping for wine or beer, most Oklahomans do not look or ask for those beverages produced in our state. For many, wine conjures up thoughts of vineyards on the rolling hills of rural France. That idea is not far from the truth. However, new enterprising Oklahoma entrepreneurs hope to change that and bring the idea of wine local.

“I did not really even know Oklahoma had wines,” Ashley McGhee, a UCO student, said.

“I would never think to look. I just pick up what has a cool label.”

During the last decade, Oklahoma’s wineand beer making have been growing at an astounding rate. According to Wines & Vines/ Buyers Guide, Oklahoma is the country’s fourth fastest growing wine producer, though Oklahomans rank 33rd in total consumption of wine. In 1986, Oklahoma had just two wineries but now boasts 48. Dianne Jones, who runs Nuyaka Creek Winery in Bristow, Okla., said she is surprised at the rate of growth since she started as a hobbyist more than 10 years ago.

Wineries and vineyards are peculiar forms of agriculture because they bring with them the possibility of tourism. Besides U-pick berry farms, vineyards are about the only form of agri-tourism. Andrew Snyder, professor of viticulture and winemaking at Redlands Community College, said he has seen a great response by the public to these new agritourism facilities, and visiting a vineyard or a winery is a unique experience for the entire family. Jones agreed with Snyder.

“People are looking for new experiences, and visiting a winery you get to really come out to the country and experience life totally different from city life,” Jones said.

Many of the state’s 48 wineries and vineyards are located in rural towns, with the greatest amount being in the northeast part of Oklahoma. This provides for a good opportunity to see areas of Oklahoma that are off the beaten path.

Most wineries hold annual festivals during summer months to draw crowds out and showcase their current wine offerings. One such example is the May 22 festival at Chapel Creek Winery at Redlands Community College. Tourism and on-site sales can account for almost half of winery revenues, making these events an important part of owning a winery.

“There has been a sharp rise in Oklahoma’s winemaking, and that, like any growing in-

dustry, there will be those that prosper or fail, but those who invest in education will have a better chance,” Snyder said.

Oklahomans looking to get into winemaking, enology, grape growing, or viticulture, are in a unique position because of two universities that are leading the way in education for this new industry in Oklahoma. Redlands Community College offers a two-year degree program in viticulture and enology, and Oklahoma State also has a two-year course on the matters of viticulture and enology. “Enrollment in this program will give grape growers more of a well-rounded horticulture education,” Eric Stafne, OSU Cooperative Extension fruit and nut crop specialist, said in Le Vigneron, the OSU grape newsletter.

Education is key in growing grapes in Oklahoma. The long, hot summers, cold winters,

Human Environmental Sciences

HELPING CHILDREN GROW PHOTO BY GARETT FISBECK

By Jack Chancey / Staff Writer

“There has been a sharp rise in Oklahoma’s winemaking, and that, like any growing industry, there will be those that prosper or fail, and red clay make growing grapes a challenge.

Oklahoma’s often unpredictable weather creates other challenges that viticulturists have to deal with. The early fall freezes and late spring freezes experienced in Oklahoma can only be withstood by the hardiest of grape vines. Redlands Community College is currently growing and testing 54 different varieties to see what works best here.

The climate is not the only challenge wine producers face. Despite Oklahomans voting yes on a state question in 2000 that would allow them to sell directly to liquor stores, wine producers are currently limited to selling through wholesalers or on-site. The issue with that is the wine producers’ profit margins are low, and wholesalers take a certain percentage for their services. Oklahoma’s wine produces in low quantities, so any percentage that is being taken away is hard to make back.

Although Oklahoma’s wine industry faces an uphill battle, interest is growing, and retail liquor stores are seeing more buyers looking for Oklahoma wines.

“I have seen a pretty solid increase in interest,” Terrance Collior, owner of Cellar Wine & Spirits, said. “People come in and like to support local industries, and they end up finding out that Oklahoma offers some pretty good wines.”

Children enjoy playtime in the playground behind the Human Environmental Sciences building. Child Study Center is a program offered at the Environmental Sciences that supports research efforts for students while offering learning experiences for children.

By Ethan Larsh / Contributing Writer

Students who have walked out of the Nigh Center and past the Music Building may have seen their teachers’ children in the playground behind the Human Environmental Sciences building. Many of the UCO faculty’s children are enrolled at the Child Study Center, a program headed by the Family Life Education Program that supports research efforts for students while offering learning experiences for children.

“It’s a preschool,” Cristy Smith, director of the Child Study Center, said. “We have two programs, one for three-year-olds and one for four-year-olds.”

Many children who go to CSC are more prepared when they start kindergarten.

“We see a lot of children who come here where it’s their first time to be in a group setting,” Smith said. “They learn to work and socialize with others. It’s a stepping stone to going to school.”

Although there are children from the Edmond community enrolled in CSC, many parents want their children to go to it, and because of the large demand, CSC is very selective.

“We have a long waiting list,” Smith said.

“We only have 20 spaces in our class. We try to prioritize to the staff at UCO.” Trey Cone, associate professor in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Studies, agrees that the Child Study Center can work as a stepping stone and said how happy his son, Chase, is to be involved in the program.

“He loves it,” Cone said. “Chase just loves his teachers and looks forward to going every day. He learns things, but he socializes and learns to get along with other kids.”

It’s easy for Chase to have fun and to love being there with CSC’s learn through play style of teaching.

“Our philosophy is learning through play,” Smith said. “We have activities such as paintings and puzzles that children can choose from. We want to provide an environment that they might not have at home.”

This learning through play philosophy, along with putting children in a group setting, has been positive and very beneficial for these children.

“When he started attending he was very shy, and now he’s outgoing,” Cone said, describing the progress his son has made.

5

NEWS

APRIL 15, 2010

PHOTO BY SHERRI GLEEN

KICKING BUTTS: UCO TO BECOME SMOKE-FREE

PHOTO BY SHERRI GLEEN

PHOTO BY JESSICA MASSEY

Steve Hersh is for the ban of smoking on the University of Central Oklahoma campus. Hersh uses a smokeless tobacco cigarette that emits vapor in the air.

PHOTO BY JESSICA MASSEY

University of Central Oklahoma student who wished to remain anonymous smokes between classes.

PHOTO BY SHERRI GLEEN

Two students smoke outside of the Art and Design building. UCO will be a tobacco-free campus beginning in July 2010.

Cameron Weeden, a freshman at the University of Central Oklahoma, finishes a cigarette before returning to class on April 5, 2010.

Cigarette butts litter the University of Central Oklahoma campus. Maintaining a clean campus is only part of the reason for UCO becoming tobacco-free July 2010.

8

CLASSIFIED FOR RENT

EMPLOYMENT

Server Positions Available

Pearls Lakeside. within. 748-6113

Apply

Shogun’s Steak House Of Japan

Hiring for waitstaff, busers, dishwashers, host, bar tender. Apply in person at Northpark Mall (NW 127nd N. May) after 5:30 pm. 7490120

APRIL 8, 2010 CROSSWORD PUZZLE

1, 2 & 3 Bedroom Apartment Homes

~Spring Creek of Edmond~ Huge Student Discount!

No application fee or Security Deposit w/ Student ID 341-3932

Apartment for Rent

1 BD APT. Gas & Water Paid. No Pets! Near UCO. 1209 N. Roosevelt. $375.00/ Mo. Phone 641-0712

Teacher Needed Immediately For Female Roomate Edmond Daycare FT/PT experience pre- Needed ferred. Competitive wages.

Apply in person @ 24 NW 146th or call Camelot CDC @ 749-2262

Female roommate needed to share a 2 year old 4 bed/2 bath house near UCO in a family neighborhood close to Edmond North with 2 Senior Services of Oklaho- female UCO students. Rent ma is looking for students to includes all utilities, bafill part time positions. Several sic cable, high speed wirefrom 9a.m.-1p.m. shifts and less internet, onsite washer/ 1:30p.m.-5:30p.m. shifts are dryer, and off-street parking. available for Monday- Friday. The house is completely furWe pay $10.00 per hour for nished with the exception of energetic phone work educat- the room for rent. Rent is ing senior citizens on health- $500 a month plus deposit. care issues. No experience is No smoking or pets allowed. needed; We will train. Business is located at 1417 N.W. If interested in living in a 150th St. in Edmond. Call nice, quiet home please con879-1888 to set up interview. tact: Ask for Megan Parris.

Keith -(405)633-1250 or email lashleyfamily@hotmail.com

Part Time Job

We are looking for enthusiastic and friendly individuals to add to our team!

Now hiring for both AM and PM Servers Please Apply in person Monday- Thursday between 2 and 4 pm.

Charleston’s Edmond 3409 S. Broadway Ste 400 Edmond, OK 73013 (405) 478-4949

Handy Student Wanted

Lawn maintenance, carpentry, painting. Near UCO. Must be self-motivated, trustworthy, able to work unsupervised. 641-0712

Part-Time Job

Local eye clinic in Edmond looking to fill a part time position T-F 3:00-6:30 and Sat 9-2:00. More hours available if needed. Must have computer skills, social skills, and a friendly attitude. Job includes merchandise sales and front desk responsibilities.

Please fax or email resume.

405-478-7098 or rpjones@ yahoo.com

Babysitter Needed Babysitter needed for summer and 2010-2011 school year for two boys, (7&4) Summer: 4 days per week.

School year: mornings and afternoons.

Paid cash daily, $10 p/h 405-249-4533

SERVICES

The Language Company: Edmond

Conveniently located on UCO’s campus, offers English as a second language classes for international students/individuals. NOW FEATURING a specially designed program with: Strong emphasis in listening/speaking, highly interactive classes and new and improved TOEFL program.

Enjoy small classes and campus facilities. Contact us at (405) 341-2125 or www.thelanguagecompany.com

QUOTE OF THE DAY

“Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope or confidence.”

-Helen Keller FUN FACTS Originally, the state of Oklahoma was set aside for the exclusive use of the Indians and was called Indian Territory .

However, in 1889, the land was opened to settlers in what became known as the “ Oklahoma Land Rush.” On the first opening day on April 22, 1889, 50,000 people swarmed into the area. Those who tried to beat the noon starting gun were called Sooners. Hence the state’s nickname.

Big Foot was sighted in Vici, Oklahoma in 1977. Though a search party was sent out, no evidence was found.

It is unlawful to put any hypnotized person in a display window in Hawthahorne.

Guthrie, Oklahoma has the nation's only museum devoted to the collection of lighters. At the National Lighter Museum, nearly 20,000 lighters and "fire starters" are displayed.

Facts provided by: legendsofamerica.com

1. To the point 6. “Murphy Brown” bar owner 10. Duff 14. Downy duck 15. Put on board, as cargo 16. Ashcroft’s predecessor 17. Harshly criticize 18. Comrade in arms 19. Black cat, maybe 20. Characterized by oneself 22. A fisherman may spin one 23. ___ lily 24. Emulated running mates?

26. ___-bodied 30. ___ juice (milk) 31. Barely beat 32. Cut short 33. 100 centavos 35. Run off to the chapel 39. Keeps tobacco fresh 41. As expected 43. “Fiddler on the Roof” role 44. Fill 46. ___ gin fizz 47. Expression of doubt 49. French software engineering vendor 50. Big mouths 51. Common, heavy mineral 54. Confusion 56. Husk 57. Party favor 63. ___ fruit 64. “Iliad” warrior 65. Excellent 66. Corker 67. Church part 68. Clear, as a disk 69. Appear 70. Brews 71. Copenhageners

Down

1. British tax 2. Houston university 3. “American ___” 4. Bondman 5. Iron 6. Theater regulars 7. Calls to hunting dogs 8. Doing nothing 9. Dutch cheese 10. Cytoplasm and nucleus 11. Chart anew 12. Administer extreme unction to 13. In shape 21. Beat 25. Stead 26. Hurting 27. Bummed out 28. Describe 29. Functional cavity liner 34. Removes by heat 36. ___ podrida 37. Farm equipment 38. “___ only” 40. Angry outburst 42. Capture 45. Accomplish 48. Tomorrow 51. Natives of France 52. Bicker 53. Charles de Gaulle’s birthplace 55. Put in 58. Face-to-face exam 59. Halo, e.g.

60. Hate group 61. “... or ___!”

62. Bakery selections

ANSWER FROM APRIL 6

V Do the right thing.

Recycle this issue of The Vista.

Go Green.

WORD SEARCH

Accident Adults Age Aid Am Are Ash Ate Bed Bin Biology Boots But By Cling Copy Cot Crab Dad Deck Dial Died Dot

Elf End Fault Fly Fool Fun Go Grasp Hat Her Hi Hut If Inn Is It Japanese Jet Joy Jumps Look Lot Lunch Mad

Manufacturers Mixing Moth Mud Nine Nod Oak Oar Obey Observations Of Or Out Own Paw Pea Pet Plump Pot Pub Rags Ran

Reed Rid Set Sews Sick Ski Skyscrapers So Step Task Thou Tie To Tug Two Upon Us Wax Why Wont Yoga Zebras

CryptoQuiz Each of the following cryptograms is a clue to the identity of a popular winter sport. Using the hints V=L and S=A, decipher the clues to name the sport.

1

PVSEX ________

2

SWXV _______

3

QYX GCAM ____________

4

BVCG ______

5

VSAX ______

Oh, how this sport blossomed in 1994: ______________________________________ Answers: 1) Blade, 2) Axel, 3) Toe pick, 4) Flip, 5) Lace, Figure skating

Best In Casual Dinning

Across

SPORTS

APRIL 8, 2010

7

Track and Field

WELCOME BACK

By Ryan Costello / Staff Writer Following its 2000-2001 campaign, the UCO track and field team was one of a handful of athletic clubs that received the axe, as the university dropped the program from its catalogue of sports.

Marked by UCO’s recent competitions in Shawnee and Oklahoma City, a fledgling Broncho team has finally completed a revival process that began with a July 2009 announcement that signaled the program’s rebirth.

At that midsummer announcement, UCO athletics director Joe Muller said all the right things, and so with the news came all the expected pomp and circumstance of a significant university undertaking.

But Muller knew from the work that had already been done leading up to the decision that putting together a program from the ground up would require more than just eloquent speech and a handshake or two.

“It’s not just easy as clicking your fingers,” Muller said.

The upstart athletic director, in his second year heading UCO’s department after assistant stints at Oklahoma State and Purdue, spoke with a certain tone of accomplishment while reflecting the process through which track and field returned to campus.

Could Muller perhaps be a track junkie? Well, not quite, but a devoted A.D. at the very least.

“I am a fan, but it’s more than just that that brought [track and field] back,” Muller said.

A study, or audit, into the UCO athletics program revealed that it was time.

“This was another way to offer additional opportunities for young women to participate in college athletics,” Muller said. “It was a logical step.”

What followed was a whirlwind of administrative acts, like budgeting, staffing, anticipating the size of the team and its needs, and of course, one motivator that Muller

PHOTO PROVIDED BY PHOTO SERVICES

University of Central Oklahoma’s track and field program has been reinstated following an eight-year absence.

UCO pole vaulter Hannah Gibson (above) takes to the sky in UCO’s opening match of the season.

deemed a definite requirement.

“We wanted to make sure that if we introduced a new program, one of the key elements would be to offer scholarship opportunities for students,” Muller said. “That was an important part of the equation for me.”

And so, the track and field program officially, forgive the pun, had legs.

The next step in the renaissance of the university’s track and field team, finding a suitable head coach, was nothing short of crucial to the budding program’s success.

As it turned, through what could be described no better than a bronze and blue stroke of luck, the Broncho brass would land a decorated skipper with Olympic pedigree and a knack for national success. … Or perhaps more accurately, the prized coaching prospect would land in their laps.

Nearly half a country away, in the relatively tranquil town of River Falls, Wis., a man was in search of a university position as a professor. That search eventually brought him to the campus of UCO, where

he took a job in the biology department. With him, he brought his wife, Martha Brennan, who would just so happen to be the answer for the UCO track and field coaching search.

Brennan was hired in October 2009.

Brennan’s collegiate career in track and field was littered with an embarrassment of athletic achievements.

She reigned as a five-time AllAmerican while at Division II South Dakota University before transferring to Louisiana State University, where she was a cog in the mid-90s Tiger track machine that won backto-back Division I national titles in 1994 and ‘95.

In 1996, Brennan continued her career on an even grander stage, specializing as a heptathlete in the Olympic Trials, and in 1997 competed on the USA track and field team.

Already a Jacqueline of all trades in her collegiate endeavors on the field, Brennan’s passion for the sport combined with her specialty, the

heptathlon, a seven-event competition that requires an abundance of versatility, her athletic makeup simply oozed coaching potential.

Even in an attempt at modesty, Brennan highlighted some of the very reasons she would make the ideal head coach.

“I wasn’t world class in anything, but I was good at everything,” Brennan said.

It didn’t take long for track and field programs to notice Brennan, and less than a year after leaving team USA she had her first opportunity to join a collegiate coaching staff.

After a four-year stint as an assistant on the Iowa University staff, Brennan moved on to Texas A&M University, where she helped lead the men to the to the 2001 Big 12 Championship and a woman’s individual Big 12 title in the pole vault.

The year 2004 saw Brennan receive her first nod as a head coach, taking over the Division III Falcons of the University of Wisconsin’s River Falls campus. In five years at the helm in River Falls, Brennan coached 23 All-Americans in both

men’s and women’s track and field, and took home the Division III national championship in 2008.

Nonetheless, Brennan was now tasked with building a program from scratch. The track and field team had no official roster, no definite practice facility, and no schedule.

The headstrong Brennan, however, was far from dissuaded.

“Well, track and field is the same everywhere, whether you have a bunch of talent or a little talent. …

For me, I like challenges,” Brennan said.

With the help J.D. Martin, head coach of UCO’s cross country team, Brennan put together a roster, planned a practice schedule, hunted down acceptable facilities, and did what she does best, coached track and field.

Muller saw the tremendous amount of work being done in a relatively small window, and remains to the day impressed with the woman in charge of the budding track and field program.

“Coach Brennan took a program [in River Falls] that was basically on the verge of disappearing and won a national championship,” Muller said. “She’s a phenomenal coach.”

With past success, however, comes the expectation of future success.

In answering the dreaded expectation question, Brennan’s words were carefully selected, as to avoid any Namethian guarantees, but far from minced.

“I don’t like being second,” Brennan said. “I know what takes to win a championship. I know what kind of team it takes, and I know what kind of coach it takes.”

If her tenacity is any indication, Brennan seems to be exactly the kind of coach it takes.

Vista Staff Writer Ryan Costello can be reached at rcostello@uco360.com.

Football

RYAN GALLIMORE PREPARING FOR NFL Gallimore, and two other former UCO football players performed well at their pro day as they try to make it big.

By Chris Wescott / Sports Editor One of the most prolific wide receivers in Central Oklahoma football history has called it a quits. Ryan Gallimore decided to skip out on his final year with the Bronchos to become draft eligible. Gallimore, a top 10 all-time receiving threat at UCO, has been hard at work since making the decision to leave college for the NFL. Gallimore excelled at UCO’s pro day, running a 4.44 40-yard dash time and showing off his receiving skills to a plethora of professional scouts.

“There were 12 teams there,” Gallimore said of his pro day. “About six of them I had gotten calls from before that day.”

Those teams run the gamut, from NFC teams to AFC teams, from the West Coast and East Coast. Gallimore named off several of the teams in attendance, including Denver, Kansas City, Detroit, Arizona, San Diego, Dallas, Miami, Chicago and Buffalo.

Playing at a small school like UCO, and then seeing representatives from all those NFL

teams watching you can be pretty humbling.

Gallimore has been dreaming of an opportunity like this all his life.

“All my life I’ve been, you know, dreaming about this stuff. As a kid, everybody wanted to go to the NFL. I am just very fortunate to get that opportunity to play at the next level.”

Gallimore knows that his work isn’t done yet. Given a draft grade of anywhere from the fifth round to undrafted free agent, Gallimore is going to have to work for his chance at the next level. The same can be said for two other UCO prospects who may have helped themselves at their pro day workouts. Gallimore named Freddie Harris and Jermelle Cudjo as two former teammates making names for themselves before the draft.

Cudjo performed well at his pro day, running an official 5.10 in the 40-yard dash and benching 225 pounds 24 times. His official measurements were 6-foot-2 and 293 pounds. This could put Cudjo as a defensive tackle in a 4-3 scheme in the NFL. However, if Cudjo could add 20-30 pounds to his frame, he could potentially be a sleeper 3-4 nose

tackle pick. His playing size at 293 would most likely shift him to defensive end in a 3-4 scheme. Cudjo was given the grade of a priority free agent. This means he will most likely go undrafted, but should be one of the first undrafted free agents to sign with a team.

Cudjo’s workouts were good enough to rate him 64 out of 167 draft-eligible defensive tackles by nfldraftscout.com and earned him mention in a nfl.com blog published by NFL analyst Gil Brandt.

Freddie Harris, who was invited to a private workout with the Dallas Cowboys according to Gallimore, saw his draft stock rise following his pro day. He is ranked 53 out of 226 outside linebackers and was given a fifth to sixth round grade with a possibility of being a priority free agent. The Broncho standout weighed in at 227, measuring 6-foot-1 and ran a 4.49 40-time.

“I’m excited for my teammates.” Gallimore said.

When asked if he had any draft day plans, Gallimore said he didn’t really have any. He said he isn’t getting his hopes up about being

drafted, and thinks free agency is the likely course, and he is looking forward to it.

“I am just fortunate enough to even be mentioned.”

When asked which team he would most like to play for, Gallimore smiled and without hesitation said, “The Dallas Cowboys.”

Whether or not Gallimore, Harris or Cudjo make it to the next level will be determined April 22-24 when the 2010 NFL draft takes place. Until then, all these three can do is keep working hard and maybe, just maybe, those dreams of playing pro football will come true.

Vista Sports Editor Chris Wescott can be reached at cwescott@uco360.com.

8

SPORTS

APRIL 8, 2010

Sports Feature

By Chris Wescott / Sports Editor Luke Tirey grew up in Edmond.

He went to high school right down the road at Santa Fe, and then continued his education at the University of Central Oklahoma. Now Tirey spends his time helping local athletes get prepared for either the next season or even bigger things ahead.

“I grew up here in Edmond, Oklahoma,” Tirey said. “I went to Santa Fe High School, and went to UCO to study kinesiology for a little bit.”

However, Tirey wanted to branch off and look at different types of training more in line with his philosophies. He took some time to learn the techniques he uses today at his own weight room in Edmond.

“I took some time off and started studying different coaches all the way from the eastern European block,” Tirey said. “Even guys here in the U.S. like Buddy Morris and Dave Tate, Louie Simmons, guys like that. I really started to just kind of put together my own thinking, my own way of training, and that’s kind of where I’m at today.”

Tirey’s philosophy is nothing special, just come to work. “My gym is, as you can see, nothing fancy.

We don’t have a lot of, like, fancy cardio equipment or anything like that. Everything we have in here is for the purpose of just getting guys to be better athletes, losing weight, whatever your goals are we can attain and make that happen.

“Our gym motto I guess is, ‘If you want results, and you’re going to work hard for them, this is the place for you.’”

Tirey has helped out some pretty big names. Locally, he has trained Reggie Smith and Brandon Whitaker. Smith played at Santa Fe then moved on to play at the University of Oklahoma. Smith currently plays professional football for the San Francisco 49ers. Whitaker, also an Edmond native, is the running back for the Canadian Football League’s Montreal Alouettes. Tirey has worked with Smith for the past two years, and the two are working together while Smith attempts to crack the starting lineup.

Tirey has been training UCO wide receiver and now NFL draft prospect Ryan Gallimore since two weeks before to his pro day on March 9.

“Gallimore came to me two weeks before his pro day, and he hadn’t been working out very much. He had taken some time off, and then all of the sudden figured out he was going to enter the draft, so things just kind of fell real quick. So the last couple of weeks, we’re really just working on technique and trying to get the 40-time improved.”

Although Gallimore still goes in to Tirey’s gym four days a week to continue his progress, Tirey has been focusing on yet another challenge: improving the No. 4 ACHA collegiate hockey team in the nation, and getting them ready for

Get

next year.

“I started working with Kevin Fukala and Matt Cohn last year, worked with them for the entire season and it was really just kind of, it was a different thing. I worked with them only two days a week, and both of the kids man, they just blew up.

“They put on tons of size, they were playing a lot better, and the coaches noticed that. They came in, and now we’re working with the whole team. We’re starting with the basics. We’ll get them stronger, get them to be able to sit down in their stride a lot better. I think a lot of good things are going to come. They made it to the final four last year, I think they’re young. They are a lot smaller than they were last year, but I feel we are going to head in the right direction.”

Cohn, a soon to be senior and captain of the Bronchos for the past two seasons, said before he started working with Tirey, he didn’t know much about lifting weights.

“I came in just a kid, didn’t know much about lifting, and he’s really turned me into, well, I take it a lot more serious,” Cohn said.

Cohn also said Tirey’s training could be a launching pad to even further success for the team. Ranked as the No. 4 team in the nation, and having reached their first final four appearance in history last season, the Bronchos are looking forward with help from Tirey.

“I trained with Luke all season

PHOTO BY GARETT FISBECK

HARDCORE TRAINING

Luke Tirey sits at a weight bench in his Edmond gym discussing proper technique with the UCO hockey team.

this year,” Cohn said. “I could feel every practice. Every day I got stronger. My stride, my skating felt a lot stronger. Everything he did was great for me. I can’t wait to see the results for the whole team.”

Tirey said although he has plans to expand his enterprise in the future, he always wants to keep that “hardcore” atmosphere in his gyms.

Right now, Tirey is just focusing on finding young coaches , with the same philosophies and drive that he

has, to make his gym better.

With the credentials he is gathering from preparing young, local athletes to go on to professional levels, Tirey is already becoming one of the most dynamic trainers in the state of Oklahoma. If he can improve Gallimore’s physical condition to NFL specifications, and push UCO hockey over the top, it will just be two more achievements for the young Edmond native to add to his growing resume.

onnected U CENTRAL student media

watch

read

listen

connect