Campus Quotes
Texting While Driving
The Ramble
Setting Records
Students share their thoughts on Edmond bicycle safety. Page 2.
The University of Central Oklahoma’s Students in Free Enterprise is sponsoring a no texting while driving campaign. Page 3.
Ryan Croft sounds off on the things weighing heavy on his mind. Page 5.
Former UCO quarterback Justin Allgood sets career TD record in Arena Football. Page 8.
APR 13,2010
uco360.com twitter.com/uco360
THE VISTA
UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL OKLAHOMA’S students voice since 1903.
COAL MINING
What you should know in the face of tragedy
* Mining is considered to be one of the most dangerous occupations in America. According to AP, the mining explosion that occurred on April 5, in West Virginia is considered to be the worst mining disaster in the country since 1970, killing 29 men. The incident elevated mining deaths for 2010 from 2 to 31. The total amount of deaths for 2010 thus far is 32, since one mining worker in Illinois died after the Virginia explosion.
* The amount of workers killed due to mining nearly doubled in 2010 compared to the previous year. In 2009, 18 mining workers were killed in the U.S. According to the Department of labor, the rate of fatal injuries in the coal mining industry in 2006 was 49.5 per 100,000 workers, which was about twelve times the rate of private industry workers. * According to the National Mining Association (NMA), currently approximately 400,000 individuals work in mines throughout the U.S. mining and industries that support mining such as geological and environmental representatives account for nearly 1.5 million jobs.
* About 55,000 new miners will be needed in the next 5-10 years to meet the nations demand for natural resources and to replace miners who will retire. Also, at least 300 new mining engineering graduates will be needed to keep up with the industry’s projected growth.
* Oklahoma is among several states that employ residents to mine. According to the Oklahoma Mining commission, mining has contributed an estimated $2 billion from nearly 766 mines in the state. The mining industry employed more than 5,000 workers in the state.
WEATHER TODAY
H 79° L 60°
Demand for coal in the United States
* In Oklahoma, minerals extracted from the Earth includes: Coal, Lead, Zinc, Limestone, Granite, Sand and Gravel, Clay and Shale, Gypsum, iron ore, asphalt, copper, volcanic ash, Tripoli, salt, and bentonite, among other Natural Resources are mined in Oklahoma. The state also extracts minerals in liquid form including, natural gas, oil, iodine and helium. Mining in the state is regulated. According to Oklahoma laws, it is unlawful for a mine operator to not report a death or injury that occurs while mining. http://www.nma.org/statistics/fast_facts.asp
Total demand for U.S. coal reached 1.12 billion tons in 2008. Half of U.S. electricity is generated from coal.
TOMORROW H 80° L 62°
9 out of every 10 tons of coal mind each year in the U.S. is used for domestic electricity generation. Each person in the U.S. uses 3.7 tons of coal annually.
More weather at www.uco360.com
DID YOU KNOW? The U.S. Civil War began this week 149 years ago when General P.G.T. Beauregard ordered the attack of Fort Sumter.
Coal is the most affordable source of power fuel per million Btu, historically averaging less than one-quarter the price of petroleum and natural gas. Energy Information Administration (EIA). Coal accounts for about 32 percent of U.S. total energy production and 23 percent of total energy consumption. Every American uses an average of 43,000 pounds of newly mined materials each year. A television requires 35 different minerals, and more than 30 minerals are needed to make a computer.
Julie Jones, left, and Cassie Jones, comfort each other during a vigil in Mullens, W.Va., Saturday, April 10, 2010, to commemorate the 29 miners who were killed in an explosion at Massey Energy Co.’s Upper Big Branch mine. They are family members of coal miner Dean Jones who was killed in the explosion. Dean Jones grew up in Mullens, Pa.
OPINION
2
THE VISTA 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.
Management Kory Oswald, Editor-In-Chief Elina Golshani, Copy Editor Chris Wescott, Sports Editor Ryan Croft, Web Editor
Design Steven Hyde
Advertising Kris Graham Brittany Koster
Editorial 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
Photography Garett Fisbeck
Circulation Stephen Hughes
Adviser Mr. Teddy Burch
Editorial Comic Prakriti Adhikari
Administrative Assistant Tresa Berlemann
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MONEY FROM TAXES NOT CUTTING WASTE Oklahoma is at a tipping point of sorts. Prompted by a devastating revenue forecast, propped up temporarily by federal stimulus dollars, most of which will evaporate next year, Oklahomans face a soul-searching quandary that can’t be ignored. You’ve read the headlines of the cutbacks to mental health operations in Norman, the reduced funding for education statewide, the status of a crumbling infrastructure of roads and bridges and dozens of other “Oh, woe is me” proclamations from a myriad of state agencies and programs. And they’re all right. Unfortunately, we, as Oklahomans, don’t want to offer up the taxes that pay for such services. The bellwether claim that we’re going to fund all these improvements by cutting waste in state government is a fraud. Even if waste were rampant, the checkbook’s going to be a few hundred million short. On the other hand, whenever someone talks about getting rid of some outdated or wasteful program, there’s a great outcry. And if you notice, defenders always seem to find a few individuals to whom the impact will be truly devastating. Again, no argument here. The point is, we can’t have it all. Oklahomans need to realize now that if they want what they want, they’re going to have to find a way to pay for it. And all those silver bullets that have been touted in the past, like the lottery, don’t ever pan out the way they’re promised. We also can’t fund this on the backs of the “wealthy” and “big business,” the typical targets when Lincoln Boulevard comes calling. And part of the discussion needs to include breaking the cycle of social dependence and wounds that our citizens self-inflict then expect their neighbors to pay for. We’re a people of common sense and it’s time to realize we can’t have it all. We can keep our taxes low, but we also can’t have great roads, great schools and all the social service programs needed to provide temporary support for those who need it. Every Oklahoman is going to have to pony up. Everyone will pay more, or everyone will get less.
By Prakriti Adhikari/ Cartoonist
CAMPUS QUOTES
Do you think there should be more improvements for bicycle lanes around Edmond? Why or why not?
MARY IWUCHUKWU
Editorial
‘
STAFF
Junior Sociology – Human Services
“I guess we should because we have Bum-a-bikes, and there is no safe place to ride.”
BRITTON ADAMS
Sophomore-Biology
BRITTANY MORGAN
Freshman-Psychology
“I think it’s fine right now.”
CALEB MARBRY
Freshman-Sociology
ALYSSA HUMPHREYS
Sophomore-Photographic Arts
“Yeah, I think so. I don’t think it’s bad right now, but UCO is a big commuter school, and the bike lanes should be better.”
MATT GREEN
Freshman-Kinesiology
Are you concerned about pedestrian and bicycle saftey in Edmond?
Let us know at twitter.com/uco360.
“Yes, I do. There have been many times that I have driven down University Drive and there has been a biker in front of me that I have to struggle to get around.”
“Yeah, a lot of people like to ride bikes, but there is a lack of sidewalks, and they have to watch out for cars while they are riding.”
“Yes, I am a big biker, and I can’t really ride in the afternoon on the main roads.”
NEWS
APRIL 13, 2010
3
Campus Economy
BORROWING FROM THE GOVERNMENT The Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act, also known as SAFRA was recently signed into law by Obama when the Healthcare Bill passed. It is designed to save taxpayers money on private student loans. By Ryan Costello / Staff Writer The passage of the monumental healthcare reform bill, made official by President Barack Obama’s signature on March 23, has both conservatives and insurers alike fighting the legislation. Another group, one whose plight has received significantly less coverage when held before the endless shadow cast by the healthcare debate, has been dealt a blow to the tune of an estimated $67 billion. When Mr. Obama signed the dotted line, he made official not only a wave of reforms to the nation’s increasingly vexed healthcare system, but also legislation that removed the middle-man from the country’s student lending system, thus deeming that all student loans be serviced directly by the Department of Education. That legislation, entitled the Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act (SAFRA), replaced the more than four decades old FFEL, or Federal Family Education Loan program that put loans through private lenders. Uncle Sam, however, remained on the hook for both loan defaults and interest payments to the banks, allowing many students to enjoy interest free loans. Under SAFRA, those and other payments previously made to private institutions will be eliminated, idealistically pumping funds back into the education sys-
tem. ”It’s not giving anything to the government,” said Dr. Mohamad Shaaf, an economics professor at UCO. “All that’s going to happen is the burden on the taxpayer will go down.” The Committee on Education and Labor said in a statement that of the savings, $2 billion go to community college grants, $2.55 billion go to historically black colleges and universities, and $750 million will be reserved for a college completion and access grant for students. For future reference, $1.5 billion will go toward a program that will reduce repayments on student loans starting in 2014. The current cap on student loan payments is 15 percent of a borrower’s monthly income, a number that is said will be reduced to 10 percent. The largest benefit will go to the federal Pell Grant fund. $36 billion is slated to go into the fund, which planners hope will sustain the number of grants in the face of increased demand as well as result in the increase of the maximum annual grant amount from $5,350 in 2009 to $5,975 in 2017. Also, supporters of SAFRA look to the bill to result in a $10 billion reduction in the federal deficit by 2020. Though three quarters of universities nationwide still operate under FFEL,
but many colleges already use the direct loan program made mandatory under SAFRA. “1,700 institutions have applied for these [direct loans], so it’s no anything new, but before, the institutions needed to apply,” said Shaaf. Shaaf also said that private lenders, much like during the real estate crisis, made loans to many borrowers that would likely be unable to make good on repayment knowing they had a governmental parachute to cover any defaults. “[A] problem with these institutions is that they were giving loans to very high risk borrowers because they knew they’d get money from the government,” said Shaaf. Lending institutions, along with most Republicans and a handful of Democrats were in the unenviable position of defending the continuation of billions of dollars in government subsidies to private banks, contended that halting the long-lived revenue stream could result in the loss of thousands of jobs, according to an article in the New York Times. Supporters of SAFRA insist that the legislation could potentially lead to job creation, as federal government jobs must be performed on domestic soil, whereas much of the work servicing loans with lenders in the private sector are internationally outsourced.
Texting Dangers
PHOTO BY GARETT FISBECK
SIFE ADVOCATING NO TEXTING WHILE DRIVING
Students in Free Entererprise (Sife) are on a mission to eliminate texting while driving.SIFE will hold a no texting while driving campaign in an effort to raise awarness of dangers texting poses as a a distraction for drivers on the road.
By Anuj Srivas & Prashanti Ganesh / Staff Writer The University of Central Oklahoma’s Students in Free Enterprise is sponsoring a no texting while driving campaign that encourages people to sign a pledge stating they will not text and drive. “While the official campaign will probably kick off at the start of the fall semester, the unofficial campaign, which includes signing up friends, family members and co-workers for no texting pledges has begun,” NaRita Anderson, faculty adviser for the UCO SIFE team, said. Hopefully the online pledge forms will be available in the next week or so,
she added. Opinion is divided heavily on this matter, both in UCO as well as Oklahoma. Following Gov. Brad Henry’s executive order that was signed in January and bars state employees from text messaging while driving state vehicles, there has been much debate. The governor said he wants the directive to serve as a model for all Oklahoma motorists. Jesse Miller, a professor of photography at the University of Central Oklahoma said though he texts now and then while driving, he always tries to pull over or stop at a stoplight and text if he has to.
“Texting is probably as bad as drunk driving because people don’t focus on the road, and we need to do something as a community together to stop this from happening,” Miller said. “Maybe legislation would help.” On the other hand, UCO student Bibek Amatya, 19, does not believe in texting while driving. Amatya said it’s more about common sense and moral responsibility. More legislation is not the solution for this problem, he added. Studies show an increasing number of motorists are texting while driving, and motorists who text while driving are six times more likely to crash than those who don’t, according to a December study by University of Utah psychologists. These studies are corroborated by others including a 2001 study sponsored by the American Automobile Association. It recorded “unknown driver attention status” for 41.5 percent of crashes, and “unknown distraction” in 8.6 percent of all distraction-related accidents. “It is a very serious problem because until laws are passed to stop texting while driving, it will be very hard to register cases,” Edmond police spokeswoman Glynda Chu said. “Not many people will readily admit that they were texting during a car crash.” It is because of this we’re seeing more unknown driver attention status cases, Chu said. The Edmond police are supportive of any effort to encourage people to stop texting while driving, she added. Motorists in Edmond can be ticketed for failure to pay full attention to driving that covers texting, eating, animals in the vehicle – things that contribute to driving infractions, Chu said. Last year, Edmond officers wrote more than 300 tickets for failure to pay full attention to driving, she said. The Students In Free Enterprise is an international nonprofit organization that works with businesses and universities to create teams of students who learn business skills through developing projects and programs that positively influence their community.
Allocation of student aid funds
$$ $ $2 Billion to community college grants
$2.55 Billion to historically black colleges and universities
$700 Million to college completion and access grants for students $1.5 Billion to a program that will reduce payments on student loans in 2014 $36 Billion to the federal Pell Grant fund
The Committee on Education and Labor
Internships
WORKING WITH WALT DISNEY By Anuj Srivas & Prashanti Ganesh / Staff Writer
“I would rather entertain and hope that people learned something than educate people and hope they were entertained,” Walt Disney, co-founder of The Walt Disney Co., said. True to those words, the Disney College Program aims to provide students with living, earning and learning opportunities, along with entertainment. The program took place at noon April 8 in Room 320C of the Nigh University Center. Students learned about the Disney College Program through a video presentation. Open to all majors and academic levels, the program recruits interns for an entire semester where the students can design their own curriculum and earn college credit. Students can choose to apply at Disneyland in California or Disney World in Florida. Housing options along with transportation facilities will be provided to students. “You’ll have the chance to meet other participants and make lifelong friendships,” Erica Nowak, a college recruiter for Disney, said. “It will give you invaluable multicultural experience.” Participants will work indoors or outdoors, depending on the nature of their work, which can vary from working with costume departments, merchandise, being lifeguards, tour guides and basic custodial services. “There is a Disney heritage that we follow,” Nowak said. “We are cast members, not employees. We have costumes, not uniforms, and we are all a part of a show, playing roles.” Being a part of this college program doesn’t end with just learning and earning. It has additional perks. Participants get free entry to the theme parks, get to watch previews of Disneyproduced movies, discounts on food, beverage and all Disney merchandise, and invitations to all cast parties. “By far, this is the best intern program I’ve seen,” Manual Perez, the director of California State University Career Development Center, said in the video presentation. “It is an amazing experience to be learning firsthand.” The classes that the participants can take are all approved by the American Council on Education. Some of the courses offered are Advanced Study in Hospitality Management, Corporate Analysis, Corporate Communication, Creativity and Innovation, Experiential Learning, Human Resource Management, and Organizational Leadership. The Disney Exploration Series helps students learn how the Walt Disney World Resort operates in key areas directly from the Disney leaders. There are also various additional learning opportunities, such as the Disney Learning Center, Disney Development Connection, Alumni Speaker Series and My Disney Career Series. “Disney is the best thing on my resume, and that’s what every employer wants to know about,” Meag Jackson, the representative from UCO, said. “I used to wonder what operating the rides had anything to do with engineering,” Jillian Howell, an OU campus representative for the program, said. “I eventually made some contacts and got to work on the parade engineering.” The Professional Development Studies program that allows students to study a specific line of business in areas of engineering, security, entertainment show production, and finance is also offered.
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NEWS
APRIL 13, 2010
Alternative Transportation
P H OTO BY K AT H L EEN WEL L S
CYCLING INCREASES IN POPULARITY, EDMOND TO BECOME BIKE FRIENDLY By Shawndra Ward / Contributing Writer
From carbon fiber road bikes to 1960s style cruisers, there is a bike out there to fit any individual style. The same goes for skateboards. Bicycles and other forms of alternative transportation have become more popular not only on campus, but as a way to get anywhere. With many going green programs encouraging people to ride bikes and find ways to minimize smog emissions and gas consumption, bicycle stores such as Al’s and Guthrie Bicycles have seen an increase in interest of bicycles. On sites like Craigslist, there are numbers of listings asking for bicycles and selling bicycles. A lot of questions come to mind when hearing all the hype about bicycles, about finding the right one, and what benefits they provide other than ecological. Kent Denham of Guthrie Bicycles said he sees customers from all over the state and country. He has been in the bicycle business since 1971 and has seen fluctuating popularity over the years. In his shop there is every style you could think of; road bikes built for speed and agility, mountain bikes made for rough terrain, and vintage bikes that date back to the ‘50s. Senior photography major, Clifton Roberts, has been riding his bike or longboard off and on for his entire college career, “depending on the day or weather.” “I don’t have to look for a parking spot,” Roberts said. “I get to enjoy the weather outside and even get a little exercise. “Some other incentives for people to choose alternative transportation are you can hop on board with the going green campaigns. Less toxins being poured into the air, that kind of thing. Saving money is also a plus if you ride often enough. It’s not only for people who live on campus, but also for those who live within a few miles. Maybe if you are in good enough shape you can make the ride from just outside of Edmond.” There are a few problems though. “Edmond isn’t exactly cycler friendly,” Roberts said. “I get some rude responses when I Bicyclying is becoming an alternative to driving. Retailers am riding my longboard or bike.” offer a variety of bicycle styles to fit individual needs.
In Bricktown, it is illegal to ride bikes on the sidewalk, yet there aren’t any bike lanes provided for cyclers. There are not any bike lanes in Edmond either; this provides a danger for cyclers and motorists who share the road. There is however a $500-$1,000 fine for hitting cyclists in Edmond. The Parks and Recreation Department has budgeted more than $30,000 for making the city more cycler friendly.
KNOW HOW TO RIDE YOUR BIKE LEGALLY City of Edmond bicycle ordinances
- Every person operating a bicycle upon a roadway, or upon a bicycle route or lane, shall ride as near to the right-hand side of the way as practicable, and shall exercise due care when passing a standing vehicle or one proceeding in the same direction. - Persons operating bicycles shall not ride more than two abreast except on designated bicycle path/trails. - Whenever a usable bicycle path/trail is provided adjacent to a roadway, bicycle operators shall use such path/trail and not the roadway.
Greek Week
EXHIBIT SHOWCASES RETIRED FACULTY’S UNIQUE ARTWORK
UCO BODIES SUPPLY BLOOD IN ANNUAL OBI DRIVE
By Ethan Larsh / Contributing Writer
By Anuj Srivas & Prashanti Ganesh / Staff Writers
PHOTO BY GARETT FISBECK
Art
The University of Central Oklahoma opened “Reflections,” an art exhibit featuring the work of former and retired UCO faculty on Thursday, April 8 in the Donna Nigh Gallery at the Nigh University Center. More than two dozen of the artists were showcased in the exhibit, a number pleasing Dr. Bob Palmer, UCO painting and photography professor, who curated the show. “It was one of the best shows we’ve had,” Palmer said. “It was a great turnout.” Some artists who were showcased have received national and international recognition. Don Narcomey, who taught sculpture at UCO, is nationally known for his work. “Don Narcomey was featured on Home and Garden Television’s ‘Modern Masters,’” Zina Gelona, another curator of the exhibit, said. “He does wood turning.” Wood turning is a type of wood working that can create intricate designs and shapes from wood. Tom Simonton, a painter who draws upon western themes, was showcased with the other UCO art faculty. “Tom has been featured at the National Cowboy Hall of Fame and Western Heritage Museum,” Gelona said. “I really like Don Narcomey and Tom Simonton’s work,” Palmer said. The College of Fine Arts and Design has purchased two pieces from showcased artist Pam Husky, former assistant chair of the Art Department. “We purchased Pam Husky’s work,” Gelona said. “They’re fiber-art; that’s felted wool and mixed media. They’re called October and Bloom.” Many different art mediums were used at the exhibit, includ- “The Revival Series” (centered), by Don Narcomey was one of the pieces on display at the “Reflections” art show ing oil painting, watercolors, sculpture, metal work, weaving,
UCO Greek students organized the Panhellenic Blood Drive April 6 in the Nigh University Center Heritage Room as a part of Greek Week. The Oklahoma Blood Institute has been conducting the drive annually in the University of Central Oklahoma for many years. “UCO has always been a great support of blood supply,” Julie Gimmel, the coordinator for blood drives at UCO for the Oklahoma Blood Institute, said. “And it’s especially helpful when the blood supply is at a critical level like it is today.” Approximately 100 people donated blood, and each donor who contributes one pint of blood can save up to three people’s lives. “This is a way to make Greek students aware of their responsibilities towards the society and also an opportunity for us to give back to the community,” Saura Shanaki, daytime events chair for Greek Week, said. The entire process of donation took approximately 45 minutes per person, including the screening process and filling out and signing the required paperwork. The phlebotomists, who are trained to draw blood, questioned the donors about their health histories, travel patterns and where they were born. The donors were also checked for body iron content. “If the level of iron is 38 or above, you are safe to donate,” Gimmel said. “If it is lesser, you are not allowed to donate because the iron content will dip too low for you.” The donors were sent to another room where their skin where they were to be punctured was cleaned with an antiseptic before drawing the blood. Various safety precautions were taken by the Oklahoma Blood Institute to ensure the safety of the patients as well as the donors. Many tests including ones for Leukemia, Hepatitis A on the fourth floor of the NUC. and B, etc., were performed. The Rh factor test that determines if the blood group is positive or negative was also done. mixed media, screen printing and ceramics. “Such precautions also act as a physical assessment for the Gelona was pleased that the show went well, and happy she donor,” Gimmel said. “The test results will be mailed to them could help display her former teacher’s art. in two weeks’ time.” “I took classes from these people, so it was an honor to Each donor was also provided with a free T-shirt, a cholesshowcase them,” Gelona said. “It was an honor to give some- terol screening and snacks. thing back to them. As a part of Greek Week, the organizers had other activities going on simultaneously. Since all Greek chapters are split into four teams between the sororities and the fraternities, four boxes were placed where students could drop off coins and The first pigments used in paintings bills. were ground from earth, minerals, Each penny and silver coin or dollar bill dropped in the box and organic matter. Pigment is finely count as positive and negative points respectively. Each Greek ground colored powder which, when member who wore the letter of his or her chapter also earned a suspended in a medium such as oil, egg, point, apart from the point earned by donating blood. All these or water, forms paint. Most pigments points add to the overall scores of the teams.
Did you know?
are now made chemically and are more permanent.
NEWS
APRIL 13, 2010
5
Opinion
Art
NEW NAME GIVES COLLEGE THE A SENSE OF ARTISTIC SELF RAMBLE WITH
University of Central Oklahoma’s College of Arts, Media and Design has recently changed its name to the College of Fine Arts and Design. The new name will reflect the academic program and the artistic mediums, administrators were reported saying. Preparations for the name change began since last year, including the creation of a new Web site. The process of the name change had to be approved among the departments, the college dean, the university dean and lastly by the State Regents. After it became official, preparations for a new banner and preparations of new name cards with the official new name soon followed. John Clinton, dean of College of Fine Arts and Design, said the new name would accurately describe the areas of expertise; the main problem of the previous name was the word Media in it. Clinton said although the college planned to add media as a department, it was no longer possible due to financial difficulties. It was evident it would not happen any time soon. But the new name allows the college to be recognized by not only faculty and students, but from guests and other universities of what the College of Fine Arts and Design represents. “It gives our college a sense of who we are,” he said. The Web site will reflect the arts college’s growth. The Web site will showcase its School of Music and its four major departments, which include Art, Dance, Design and Theatre Arts.
RYAN CROFT
P H OTO BY K AT H L EEN WEL L S
By Jenefar DeLeon / Staff Writer
Thank Christ I’m not a bird dog. I’d be wrangled up, taken out behind the tree line and shot dead where I stood because I was apparently no longer able to sniff out a pile of my own feces two feet in front of me, much less moving, hiding prey. A one-time master of my craft, I would now be more worthless to Farmer John than foreign-film subtitles to Helen Keller. I would have no voice with which to explain my simple, temporary problem — I have fallen a tragic victim to a terrible, unrelenting head cold. My sinuses are crammed fuller than 2nd Street at 4 in the afternoon and, despite all the Kombucha tea, green tea, black
Dr. John Clinton, the dean of the art department stands in fron of Evans Hall. The dean believes the new name will give the college a sense of identity.
Graphic Design Chair, Larry Hefner, said he is happy to see the new name. “It is a positive move, and it clarifies the college,” he said. Hefner said previously many of the departments would have to clarify that media was not officially part of the college to guests of the universities. He is glad to see a reduced number of calls about media. According to its Web site, among many of its goals is to leave a lasting impression on the community by promoting cultural awareness through the arts, educational programs, and preparing students for prosperous careers in the arts.
The college was founded in 2001. The College of Fine Arts and Design now has more than 200 performing and visual arts events every year. Last Saturday, “The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber” was performed along with “Noises Off” by Michael Frayn. On March 12, the UCO Student Jazz Ensemble hosted their concert. Currently more than 1,166 undergraduate and graduate students are enrolled in the college. In 2009, it had increased in enrollment compared to 2008 records. And 76 percent of its students are full time.
Student Research
PHOTO BY DAISY NYSTUL
STUDENT DRIVEN PERFORMANCE EXPRESS INDIVIDUAL STRUGGLES
Students peform at FUBAR part four, spring 2009. FUBAR part five will take place April 16.
By Heather Aki / Contributing Writer Lights out – actors are ready to do the final rehearsals for this week’s 5th annual show of FUBAR. This rock musical performance, also known as Fucked Up Beyond All Recognition, focuses on everyday crises people go through, whether it be a bad hair day, to dealing with sexual abuse. Theatre
Department Chair Daisy Nystul is the adviser of FUBAR, but this production relied on students. The theater students are in charge of sending out rehearsal schedules for each actor and putting all the short scripts together, transforming the production into a collaborated look. There is not just one, but five student directors for this performance. These students are usually picked or have to ask Nystul to direct FUBAR. They are
usually upper-level classmen wanting to have some kind of experience in directing. “The one thing I love about directing FUBAR is to have a vision of mine come to life through the connection of the characters,” theater/communication education junior Racey Ballard, said. The script is a collaboration of student-written daily crises. Ballard wrote six of the twenty short scripts. One of them is called “Breathe on Me” and is acted out by theater/communication education freshman Devon Hannaford. Through powerful words, Hannaford tells a story of sexual energy through poetic acting and movement. “This piece is interesting because it is a new experience for me, performed in a very modest and tasteful way of acting,” Hannaford said. The directors have to make sure each part of the script is expressed thoroughly. Since this show is classified as a rock musical, there will be musical transitions and a multimedia production that the directors have come up with and collaborated on. “We have put together a couple of photos that deal with the crises expressed,” Ballard said. With only a couple of days until opening night, all the directors put the finishing touches to their visions of artwork. FUBAR will open April 16 and 17 at
“I’m not after your hot-enough-tomelt-the-sun coffee. No, instead I think I’d rather scald my already raw throat with some of your green, boiling water. What’s that? Why, yes, I would like to pay the price of a vacation home in The Hamptons for it.”
tea and whisktea chugging and vitamin C huffing, there’s not a damn thing I can do about it. Yes, thank Christ my life does not depend on my for-now defunct olfactory. It is because of my plight that my tongue now squelches and squirms against the roof of my mouth in a desperate attempt to relieve the burn from my most recent waste of $2.10 — the Starshmucks “Highway Robbery” flavored green tea. I’m not even in a real Star-gimme-all-your-bucks drinking a real “Highway Robbery” tea. Although, I’ll admit, this student-centric façade in the Nigh Center does a damn good job of imitating the real thing — overpriced drinks, overloud music and overfriendly slingers. I’m talking the kinds that wear such a god-awful, toothy gape of grin that, as I approach, I don’t know whether they’re smiling or baring their teeth in preparation to let out a throaty growl warning me to stay away from their precious ground bean juice. “Take ‘er easy there, Killer. I’m not after your hot-enoughto-melt-the-sun coffee. No, instead I think I’d rather scald my already raw throat with some of your green, boiling water. What’s that? Why, yes, I would like to pay the price of a vacation home in The Hamptons for it.” The scene continues in my head, or it would if I didn’t have “Lean on Me” blaring so forcefully in my ears that the only appropriate way I can think to describe it is “auditory rape.” It’s taken me a great deal longer to write these 473 paltry words than it should have, thanks solely to the suffocation my poor thought processes suffer at the hands of such a musical menace. Ah, to be free of this place and out in a field or a forest, sprinting from bush to tree with not but the blinding sun in my eyes and the wind whipping my ears. No expensive faux remedies torching my tongue. No ironically retro “college playlist jams” beating my eardrums senseless. Just the sun and the wind and, finally, the bullet. Perhaps life and death as a sick bird dog would not be such a terrible thing after all.
Staff writer Ryan Croft will be back with more ramblings and irritations in the next issue of The Vista.
8
CLASSIFIED SERVICES
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. 749-0120
Teacher Needed Immediately For Edmond Daycare
FT/PT experience preferred. Competitive wages. Apply in person @ 24 NW 146th or call Camelot CDC @ 749-2262
Part Time Job
Senior Services of Oklahoma is looking for students to fill part time positions. Several from 9a.m.-1p.m. shifts and 1:30p.m.-5:30p.m. shifts are available for Monday- Friday. We pay $10.00 per hour for energetic phone work educating senior citizens on healthcare issues. No experience is needed; we will train. Business is located at 1417 N.W. 150th St. in Edmond. Call 879-1888 to set up interview. Ask for Megan Parris.
Ranch Help Wanted
Edmond ranch seeks part time help for basic grounds upkeep. 8-16 Hours per week, flexible hours. If interested, email mbtownsend@ swbell.net
Best In Casual Dinning
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
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
Handy Student Wanted
Lawn maintenance, carpentry, painting. Near UCO. Mist be self-motivated, trustworthy, able to work unsupervised. 641-0712
Help Wanted
Full-time/ Part-time customer service rep. position available for local dry cleaners. Friendly, outgoing personality needed. Great pay, great hours for students. Please Call 842-5400
APRIL 8, 2010 CROSSWORD PUZZLE
The Language Company: Edmond
Conveniently located on the UCO campus, offers English as a second language classes for international students/individuals. NOW FEATURING a specially designed program with: With Strong emphasis in listening /speaking, highly interactive classes , and new and improved TOEFL program. Enjoy small classes and the campus facilities. Contact us at (405) 341-2125 or www. thelanguagecompany.com
ELC English Language Center Prepares International Students for University Programs TOEFL GMAT. Located next to the UCO Plaza 1015 “C” Waterwood Pkwy info@elcok.com and www.elcok.com 348-7602
FOR RENT
1, 2 & 3 Bedroom Apartment Across Homes 1. In things ~Spring Creek of Edmond~ Huge Student Discount! No application fee or Security Deposit w/ Student ID 341-3932
Female Roomate Needed 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 female UCO students. Rent includes all utilities, basic cable, high speed wireless internet, onsite washer/ dryer, and off-street parking. The house is completely furnished with the exception of the room for rent. Rent is $500 a month plus deposit. No smoking or pets allowed. If interested in living in a nice, quiet home please contact: Keith -(405)633-1250 or email lashleyfamily@hotmail.com
Apartment for Rent
1 BD APT. Gas & Water Paid. No Pets! Near UCO. 1209 N. Roosevelt. $375.00/ Mo. Phone 641-0712
Room For Rent
Very nice bedroom, large closet, desk, tv, private bath, internet, kithcen privileges, bus services laundry privileges. One mile from campus $375/ 1 person $450/ 2 People. 341-3276
V Do the right thing. Recycle this issue of The Vista. Go Green.
5. Swiss psychologist Jean ___ 11. “Monty Python” airer 14. Biblical shepherd 15. Inevitably 16. Moray, e.g. 17. Fruity-flavored beverage 19. “I” problem 20. Common solvent 21. Printing error 23. Gloomy 24. “Check this out!” 26. Gymnast’s feat 27. Bar, at the bar 29. Believe 32. Food sticker 33. Drops on blades 35. Acknowledge 37. “20,000 Leagues” harpooner ___ Land 38. Revel 41. ___ few rounds 43. Thailand, once 44. “... ___ he drove out of sight” 45. Almond 47. Accordingly 49. Musical composition for practice 53. Ado 54. Hit the road 56. Caribbean, e.g. 57. Capacity of a merchant vessel 61. Back-to-school purchases 63. “The ___ Daba Honeymoon” 64. Providing safekeeping 66. Darling 67. Stir 68. Bro 69. Bauxite, e.g. 70. Dress adornments 71. Little, e.g.
Down 1. Pretense 2. Device for arithmetic calculations 3. Make mad 4. Coin opening 5. Nuisances 6. Most sick 7. Cow, maybe 8. Box office take 9. Appraiser 10. Boris Godunov, for one 11. Scurrying 12. Dance in Bolero rhythm 13. Walked heavily 18. Floor cleaners 22. Astern 25. Fowling net 28. “___ to Billie Joe” 30. Egg cells 31. Got up
WORD SEARCH
Aconite
flower
May
Seringa
Agave
Catchfly
Musk
Squash
Aloe
Catmint
Nuphar
Alyssum
Flag
Orris
38. Soak in sauce
Arum
Gazania
Ox-eye
40. After expenses
Aspic
Gorse
Oxlip
Viscaria
Aster
Henna
Peony
Wattle
Avens
Iris
Petal
Balm
Ixia
Phlox
Camellia
Lily
Pink
Capsicum
Magnolia
Poker
Cardinal
Mallow
Rose
34. Habeas corpus, e.g. 36. Bug
39. Cry of disgust
41. German state secret police
42. 10th month 46. Ashes holder 48. Tease 50. Depletes 51. ___ Park, Calif. 52. Break time 55. Lets go 58. Says “When?” 59. Greek earth goddess: Var. 60. New newts 62. Fizzy drink 65. Addis Ababa’s land: Abbr.
QUOTE OF THE DAY
“Keep love in your heart. A life without it is like a sunless garden when the flowers are dead. The consciousness of loving and being loved brings a warmth and richness to life that nothing else can bring.” Oscar Wilde
ANSWER FROM APRIL 8
Thyme Violet
Weed Weld Whin Wold
SPORTS
APRIL 13, 2010
7
Tennis
ANOTHER ONE BITES THE DUST PHOTO PROVIDED BY PHOTO SERVICES
The Bronchos take down another team in their race to the playoffs. UCO is now 14-4 on the season with two games to go.
UCO head coach Natalya Smith (center) gathers the team around to discuss their match against East Central on April 9.
By Ryan Costello / Staff Writer The No. 24 ranked UCO tennis team has had a strong showing as the regular season draws to a close, and they continued the very same trend on Friday, dealing a decisive defeat to Lone Star Conference rival East Central University. UCO downed the Tigers 7-2, hosting the
matchup at the UCO courts. Things didn’t start quite as planned in this matchup, though, as ECU took the opening doubles match against top pair Lacy Caldwell and Eli Rodriguez 9-8, giving the Tigers the opening 1-0 advantage. UCO would fire back in the next two doubles matches. The Broncho pairing of Julie Shviadok and
Eli Abramovic set the tone in the very next match, blanking ECU’s number two pairing 8-0, and giving the Bronchos a heap of momentum heading to the final doubles matchup. That very boost in the Broncho morale gave Anto Rossini and Rose Cabato enough pep in their steps to hand the Tigers another doubles defeat, doubling up their opponents 8-4 to
give UCO the 2-1 team lead heading into the deciding singles segment. Again, the Tigers took the opening match, as ECU’s Julia Arguello defeated Shviadok 6-4, 6-3 to deadlock the overall score at 2-2. The rest of the clash, however, would be all Bronchos. Abramovic started the Broncho run by fighting back from a 2-6 opening set loss to take the following two set 7-6 and the tiebreaker 10-5. The final four UCO players took straight set victories to secure the Broncho rout of their conference rivals. Caldwell won 6-4, 6-1, Rossini took a 6-3, 6-1 victory, Cabato snagged a win with consecutive sets of 6-2, 6-2, and Meredith Marney battled for a 7-6, 7-5 triumph. UCO’s win against a floundering ECU Tiger squad has continued a stretch during which the Bronchos have won four of five, all within the conference. The recent run of victories has followed the Bronchos’ only losing streak of the season, back to back losses against Drury University and LSC frontrunner Abilene Christian University. The Bronchos’ record currently stands at 14-4, with a 4-2 mark in conference that ties UCO with Cameron University, which they defeated 6-3 in a March 31 outing in Edmond. The Bronchos will have one last chance to improve their conference record today when they travel to Tahlequah, Okla. to face the RiverHawks of Northeastern State University in their final LSC game of the regular season. UCO will wrap up the regular season Saturday against Newman University in their final tuneup before the start of the LSC tournament on April 23.
Baseball
BRONCHOS FALL AGAIN, MOVE TO 12-24 By Ryan Costello / Staff Writer Yet another weekend has passed in the UCO baseball season, and yet another four game series has ended with the Bronchos on the short end of the stick. UCO baseball’s commute to sunny Portales, N.M., was spoiled by the unwelcoming host Greyhounds as Eastern New Mexico University took three out of four games in the Lone Star Conference matchup. The first game, an 11-9 UCO loss, marked the beginning of a serieslong trend that would turn out to be the Bronchos’ Achilles heel all weekend: poor pitching. Despite being deadlocked at three following three full innings, the Greyhounds would manage to score in five of the first six innings of play, including a back-breaking, five-run bottom of the sixth that swelled the ENMU lead to eight at 11-3. The Broncho offense, supplied mostly by pitcher-tunred-third baseman Kade Kauk and designated hitter Brady White, managed to claw back into contention over the final stretch, thanks to a four-run top of the eighth, but the UCO rally fell short as the final two Broncho batters were fanned in succession to end the game, stranding a hitter on base. The following day, the Bronchos opened a doubleheader against the Greyhounds, and in the first game, they did so with an offensive ambush, plating five runs in the top
PHOTO PROVIDED BY PHOTO SERVICES
UCO’s season woes continued this weekend with a disappointing four game series in which they went 1-3.
UCO freshman Jordan Mullin slides down the baseline in the Bronchos’ 12-0 loss to Oklahoma Christian April 6.
of the first thanks sloppy defense on the ENMU infield and RBIs by White, Ryan Schoonover, John Bryant, and Jason Monko. UCO’s pitching woes would continue however, as the Greyhounds would use the next four innings to close the gap and even the game at five. In the top of the fifth, though, Monko took a fastball on a 3-1
count and drilled up the middle, scoring the go-ahead run. The Bronchos would add one more in the inning, putting the score at 7-5 in favor of UCO heading into the late goings. Three insurance runs, one in the sixth and two in the seventh, would be enough for UCO to hold on, as they fended off the Greyhounds for a 10-7 victory.
The nightcap of the doubleheader saw the Greyhounds recover from their first inning struggles, as they held UCO scoreless in the first inning before taking a 1-0 lead in the bottom half. Monko, continuing a successful series at the dish, scored the tying run in the very next inning, but ENMU would break the game open in the bottom of the second.
UCO pitcher Tyler Schuman had loaded the bases on a single and two walks when a Greyhound triple cleared the bases, ending Schuman’s brief starting appearance. One final run in the inning would out the Broncho deficit at 5-1. UCO pulled within 5-3 on a Yost sac fly and an RBI single off the bat of Casey Bruns, but ENMU would hold the Bronchos at arm’s length throughout, taking the 8-7 victory despite three runs in a UCO sixth inning rally. The final game of the series was easily the least competitive, as the Broncho lineup was limited to just one hit on the day by Greyhound pitcher Russell Campbell, who shutout the Bronchos in a game shortened to five innings by rain. The final tally in the closer was 8-0, sealing yet another series defeat in what is fast becoming a dud of a season for the Bronze and Blue. Another bucket of losses has dropped UCO to 12-24 overall, and an abysmal 9-23 in the LSC. Pitchers Chris Muchmore (1-4), Schuman (1-5), and Yost (2-1) took the losses for the Bronchos, while Kale Murphree (2-5) picked up the lone UCO win. UCO will return the action Tuesday, when they take the short trip down to Oklahoma City to face the Eagles of Oklahoma Christian University.
Go to uco360.com for your campus news today!
8
SPORTS
APRIL 13, 2010
Sports Feature
FOR THE RECORD BOOKS Former UCO quarterback Justin Allgood sets career TD record in Arena Football.
By Chris Wescott / Sports Editor
sion basis at Primeaux Kia in Tulsa. The business is owned by Talans co-owner Henry Primeaux.
The same article asked Allgood about his recordsetting pace before the 2010 season. Allgood claims records aren’t his motivation. “I’d rather win games than break records, but if I can do both, it makes it that much nicer,” he said. Well, Allgood is doing both for the Tulsa Talons, and despite the financial difficulties that come with playing arena football, Allgood sticks with it, enjoying what he does. “It’s a league where I can compete and do something I love. Sure, I’d like to make more money someday. But playing football makes me happy, and the way I look at it is that I’m having fun, even if I never make a living at it.” Saturday’s win was only Tulsa’s second game of the season. The Talons play their next game April 23, against Arizona Rattlers. You can expect that former Broncho Justin Allgood will be under center, leading the Talons down the field and to the end zone.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY PHOTO SERVICES
The Tulsa Talons defeated the Dallas Vigilantes of the Arena Football League Saturday night 63-59. It would have been a rather routine victory and nothing too special for the Tulsa Talons, or anyone reading this for that matter, except for one fact. Former UCO standout quarterback Justin Allgood broke Craig Strickland’s Tulsa Talon’s career passing touchdown record. Following the Tulsa win, the former graduate of the University of Central Oklahoma has totaled 215 career passing touchdowns. Allgood was a baseball and football star at The Colony High School in The Colony, Texas. He was also a two-time All-District selection and honorable mention All-stater as a football player. Allgood received second-team All-District honors on the baseball diamond. Allgood began his college career in junior college. The quarterback blew up the stat sheets at Trinity Valley Community College. He finished his two-year stint at Trinity with 4,056 yards and 32 touchdowns. As a freshman, Allgood received first-team all-conference honors. The signal caller then set his sights on the NCAA. Allgood came to UCO in 2004. He had to earn the starting job, but took over the helm just two games into his first season with the Bronchos. Allgood proceeded to pass for the second-best season in UCO history. Allgood completed 63.5 percent of his passes for 2.556 yards. He also tied a single-season school record with 207 completions in 326 attempts. Allgood finished 2004 with 16 touchdowns and just nine interceptions. A nominee for the Harlon Hill, Division II’s Heisman award, and a second-team All-Lone Star Conference North Division pick, Allgood seemed destined for great things. In 2004, Allgood became the first player ever in school history to pass for 300-plus yards in three straight games. All three of those performances ranked among UCO’s top 10 outings in history at the time. Heading into 2005, Allgood ranked among the best players in the nation. He was named Don Hansen’s Football Gazette Preseason AllAmerican and CollegeSportsReport.com Preseason All-American before the 2005 season. Allgood passed for 2,314 yards as a senior and had 18 touchdowns. Allgood won second-team all-conference honors for his second season in a row. Allgood’s former teammate, Dan Peed, remembers the quarterback’s time at UCO well. “Probably the biggest thing was his arm,” the former UCO safety said. Peed was a soph-
omore when Allgood was a senior. “He could make all the throws. He had tremendous accuracy for a Division II quarterback.” Peed also remembers Justin Allgood as a leader with the right attitude toward the game. “He had a good attitude,” Peed said. “He was always positive and a good leader.” “Whenever we needed a score, he went down the field and got it.” Suddenly, as if that one thought, brought back a memory from Allgood’s college glory days, Peed launched himself into a tale of the gridiron. “We were down by four,” Peed recalled. “with about a minute and a half left in the game. Allgood rolls to his right, and almost gets sacked. He goes about five steps back to the left, and throws across his body. 50 yards down the field. He nails Kenneth Shelton, in stride! Perfect pass for a 60-something yard bomb to put us ahead. “It was one of the greatest plays I’ve ever seen in person.” The star quarterback entered his professional career in 2006 with the Oklahoma City Yard Dawgz. However, it is with the Tulsa Talons that Allgood has thrived. In 2008, Allgood played in 12 of 16 regular season games. He threw for 2,938 yards and 64 touchdowns. In 2009, Allgood exploded for 4,312 passing yards. He posted a 116.38 quarterback rating. He completed 341 of 526 throws for a 64.8 percent completion rating. It was his scoring production that was so eye-popping. Allgood scored 108 touchdowns through the air and only threw 17 interceptions the entire season. Allgood’s career touchdown record is impressive, and he is already off to a great start to 2010. The young quarterback however, like most of the Arena League stars, has struggled to make a living playing football. In a Tulsa World article published on March 13, 2009, Allgood disclosed the financial woes of being an Arena League football player in that article. “I’ve made as much as $5,000 in a month, and I’ve had months where I didn’t make very much,” Allgood told the Tulsa World. Allgood has been selling cars on a commis-
Allgood poses with The President’s Cup following UCO’s victory in the rivalry game in 2005.