APR 22, 2010
Campus Quotes
Miss Hispanic UCO
Library Book Sale
NFL Draft
Do you think lack of face-to-face communication is leading to digression of socity? Page 2.
Edith Quinonez wins pageant. Page 4.
Sales increase 150 percent from last year’s sale. Page 6.
Sports edtior Chris Wescott gives a preview of who he thinks will be chosen top 10. Page 10.
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THE VISTA
UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL OKLAHOMA’S students voice since 1903.
Technology and Society
ARE WE LOSING THE ABILITY TO COMMUNICATE FACE-TO-FACE?
UCO student Ashlee Smith types a text message between classes on April 21. A recent study indicates one in three teenagers sends and receives over 100 texts per day, begging the question; is technology digressing society?
By Ryan Costello / Staff Writer With each passing season, today’s newest technological achievement gives way to the cutting edge of tomorrow. As legions of future gadgets hit the market, they do so with the promise of pulling the world’s farthest corners closer to the consumer than ever before. In turn, the people and places across our rapidly shrinking planet have grown increasingly finite in measure, and in recent years have become instantly accessible to a user with a capable device and a data plan to match. The cell phones that more and more resemble the computers they aim to replace have taken the tech revolution off the desk and to the streets. But have scores of flashing, vibrating mobile miracles degraded society’s ability to communicate face to face? In transmitting word across seas, mountains and plains, have they forged a void between those who stand shoulder to shoulder? “It has the potential to do that,” Dr. Gary Steward, associate
dean of the Department of Sociology, Criminal Justice, and Substance Abuse at UCO, said. As the pace of the world quickens, it’s unfair to criticize developers who simply create products that keep up with it. However, the same cannot necessarily be said for the user. Steward, whose specialties include social movements and collective behavior, has seen the connection between user and gadget. “In terms of social interaction, it’s always connected to the technology of the day,” Steward said. “An observation that I had was that one of the consequences is the fact that communication has changed.” The current wave of cell phones, laptops, et al, communicates almost exclusively via text, which Steward said may have altered the tone of conversation, or just removed it altogether. In a typical conversation in person or even over the phone, there are common pleasantries exchanged through the course of an interaction. “I’ve got water boiling, so I’ve got to let you go.” “I’ll talk to you this weekend.” And so on.
This is an example of a certain etiquette in conversation Steward said is lost when interacting in the text-centric environment of instant messages and e-mail. “In text messaging, people tend to be much more direct than they would be when speaking face to face or via telephone,” Steward said. “What happened was communicating through text changed communication. You didn’t have time to use etiquette.” That sort of social impatience, a mirror of the rest of the world, can sometimes bear teeth. “The interaction in some ways has become more crass,” Steward said. “It seems to me that text messages can be awfully terse. You’re able to express emotions like anger that might be softened in face to face conversations.” Simply shortening “you” to “u” and a few tactless statements may well be just the tip of the iceberg. “We are more connected than ever before, and in a sense we’re saturated with the lives of others,” Steward said. At some point during all this connecting the masses, some of the meek have fallen through the cracks. Consider the person who lives life primarily through social networking sites, or the roommate who spends more time in a virtual game like World of Warcraft than in the real world of work and taxes. The popular computer game topped 12 million individual users in 2009, and Facebook, by far the most used networking website, has more than 400 million users, 50 percent of whom log on at least once a day, according to the site. “There seems to be a pervasive sense of loneliness,” Steward said. The revolution of connectivity shows no sign of slowing down either. According to a 2005 article in the Los Angeles Times, the number of cell phones surpassed the total count of active landlines, and in 2008, 20 percent of households in the U.S. had abandoned landlines entirely in favor of their portable counterparts. In India, more people have access to cell phones than bathrooms, and the number of text messages sent and received worldwide in a single day outnumbers the population of the Earth, according to researcher Karl Fisch. Google, the Internet search juggernaut, had first-quarter revenues totaling $6.78 billion this year. At this point, there is no turning back the tides, only riding the wave into whatever post-modern gadget or movement
Continued on page 6
Campus Economy
TODAY
H 76° L 54°
UCO CHILD STUDY CENTER ART SHOW By Jenefar DeLeon / Staff Writer
TOMORROW H 74° L 56°
More weather at www.uco360.com
DID YOU KNOW? What we call Earth’s magnetic “north” pole is really a magnetic south pole. Because opposite poles attract, this pole draws the north pole of a magnet’s compass needle toward it.
University of Central Oklahoma’s Child Study Center began its first annual Art Show Tuesday at the Human Environmental Science building. From paintings to sculptures, the young artists attending the center age 3 and up created all art pieces displayed. Guests, students, faculty and staff were welcome to participate at the silent auction of replicated pieces of art and gift baskets. T-shirts were available for purchase at $5, and decorated cards painted by the children were available for $3. Proceeds from the event will be split. Money goes toward the Early Childhood Association for its scholarship fund, as well as to the center itself to provide supplies. No exact goal was set, but the center was happy to showcase its students’ art to the UCO community. More than 10 individual pieces made by children were availble including mosaic pieces and creative large pieces. “People who rarely step into the building saw art that not everyone gets to see,” Elizabeth Martin, a junior early childhood education major, said.
The Child Study Center provides half-day programs for young children, an afternoon class and a morning class Monday through Thursday. The program supports education, training and research for Central’s community by providing hands-on work expierence. The Child Study Center is a threestar facility accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children since 1956. UCO students guide the children through curriculum activities and observation assignments. Cristy Smith, director of the Child Study Center, said the children worked hard throughout the semester on their art pieces. It was a wonderful opportunity to share it with their family, UCO students and faculty, and guests, she said. “The children were so proud of what they have made,” she said. “They are so appreciative and excited to share it with the community.” The Art Show is part of the center’s goal and philosophy, Smith said. “Learning through playing is our philosophy for our children,” she said. “Art is a process, and through the art shows parents, students and guests can see how these children de-
PHOTO BY GARETT FISBECK
WEATHER
The UCO Child Study Center debuted its first annual Art Show April 20. More than 10 pieces of art were made by children.
velop their artwork and skills.” Next year the organization hopes to expand the Art Show by including a fall event or spring event with more art to exhibit or by having a larger silent auction, she said. Recently the children participated in the annual Earth Day on Wednesday by displaying their recycled art
pieces to the UCO campus. “This is another opportunity to show our children how to use their resources creatively.” Last year the children made an igloo out of cardboard. “The children and I were very excited to participate at Earth Day,” Smith said.
OPINION
2
APRIL 22, 2010
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
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 Garett Fisbeck Kathleen Wells
Circulation Stephen Hughes
Adviser Mr. Teddy Burch
Editorial Comic Prakriti Adhikari
Administrative Assistant Tresa Berlemann
NEWS OF THE ODD OLATHE, Kan. (AP) — An Overland Park man who flashed an obscene gesture at an Olathe police officer after getting a ticket is getting rewarded for his behavior. The city of Olathe has settled a civil rights complaint filed by Scott Schaper of Overland Park. He was ticketed in September for disorderly conduct for flipping off an officer who had given him a ticket for running a stop sign. The city of Olathe last week agreed that its insurance company would pay Schaper $4,000, with another $1,000 for the American Civil Liberties Union of Kansas and Western Missouri. Olathe police also must train its officers that they are required to take such verbal abuse. The Kansas City Star reports that Doug Bonney, legal director for the ACLU chapter, says Schaper reacted angrily because the traffic stop made his children cry. NEW YORK (AP) — If George Washington were alive today, he might face a hefty overdue library fine. New York City’s oldest library says one of its ledgers shows that the president has racked up 220 years’ worth of late fees on two books he borrowed, but never returned. One of the books was the “Law of Nations,” which deals with international relations. The other was a volume of debates from Britain’s House of Commons. Both books were due on Nov. 2, 1789. New York Society Library head librarian Mark Bartlett says the institution isn’t seeking payment of the fines, but would love to get the books back. The ledger also lists books being taken out by other founding fathers, including Alexander Hamilton, Aaron Burr and John Jay. The entry on Washington simply lists the borrower as “president.”
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STAFF
By Prakriti Adhikari / Cartoonist
CAMPUS QUOTES
A recent poll said one in four teenagers texts more than 100 messages a day. Do you think this lack of face-to-face communication is leading to the digression of society? DEOREN ROBINSON
Sophomore-Advertising
“Yes, because most people communicate face to face, and since so many people text, they don’t have the correct etiquette to talk normally or professionally.”
WILLIAM GARBE
Senior-Undecided
“Yes. The lack of face-to-face communication inhibits the ability to read a person’s body language or emotions.”
ANDY SNOW
Senior-Journalism
“No. I think society is just changing and evolving.”
BRITTANY BRITTON
ADRIANNE ADAMS
ASHLEIGH GAULTNEY
Senior-Criminal Justice
Employee-Administrative Assistant
Sophomore-Nutrition and Dietetics
A recent poll said one in four teenagers texts more than 100 messages a day. Do you think this lack of face-to-face communication is leading to the digression of society?
Let us know at twitter.com/uco360.
“Yes. I definitely think it does. It makes us less interactive.”
“That’s a little drastic. I would not say that it is a cause but more of a symptom.”
“Yes. I would say so. We are losing touch with humans in general, and it’s leading to social akwardness.”
NEWS
APRIL 22, 2010
3
Education
By Anuj Srivas & Prashanti Ganesh / Staff Writers The estimated time it takes for students from India and America to finish college is 2 million minutes. However, these 2 million minutes are spent in doing things so differently that it’s interesting to see the lives and goals of American students have very little in common with those of their counterparts in India. An outsider’s perspective to American higher education signifies a departure from home. Most American students go far away from their homes for college, and if they don’t leave the state, they move to college campuses, still away from their homes. This push for selfreliance is something that characterizes the quintessential college experience for American students. With this self-reliance come other factors that play a heavy role in the American college life. A job. A car. A relationship. The number of distractions – a term used here only to describe the non-academic nature of these factors – thrown at the typical American college student seem bizarre and monumental at the same time to foreign students. “Education in America is really expensive, and if you have siblings and your parents have to pay for more than one person’s education, you have no choice but chip in and pay for yourself,” Lesley Penton, a graduate studies student, said. “It took me eight whole years to get through under graduation, and graduation is going to take four more years. With jobs to handle, it takes most of us this long.” Ines Burnham, another graduate studies student, said she is also responsible to pay for her education. “Getting education loans here is really sim-
ple,” Burnham said. “Paying it back is also our responsibility, and that’s why we need to take those jobs.” Moving on to Indian college students, the number of students who leave their homes to go to college are comparatively less, and even those who do are still very much attached to their families, both in terms of money and emotions. Indian college students have only one objective during college life – to study. They do not have to work double-shift jobs or worry about their cars. Basically, the “selfreliant” Indian college student does not exist. What brings about these radical differences in the lives of Indian and American college students? The two major differences can be pinpointed to the family life of these students, mainly the parents, and the variations in the elementary school education in both countries. Elementary education in India does not concentrate so much on the things that are laid importance to in America. Most Indian students will be two years ahead in academic knowledge compared to American kids. But they will not be as confident and independent as American students are. The parents of current American college students lived through a period of extraordinary social change. They were influenced by the Challenger disaster – the space shuttle that blew up shortly after takeoff, women entering the work force, rising divorce rates, and the growth of electronic games and of the Internet. They recognized the possibility that many institutions in their life, whether marriage or employment, could disappear. As a result, self-reliance became an important life value – a desire to keep multiple options open if something bad were to happen. On the other hand, many Indian parents lived through a time where the restrictions
P H OTO BY K AT H L EEN WEL L S
LOOKING AT UCO FROM THE OUTSIDE IN
Jovin Jose, left, and Brett Boyles are both UCO students, yet their diverse backgrounds change their perspectives on what it means to be a student in college.
of the caste system gave way to the powers of education, and success was heavily associated with rigorous study and moving out of the country to live the rest of their lives in America. The need for self-reliance was more or less eliminated due to high family-oriented values. Parents support their children right until they finish their college education and get jobs. “I know if I want a car, I should take two jobs and start saving,” undergraduate student, Paige Bessman, said. “If I don’t get a pay check for a month, my parents will not be in a situation to help me out. I need to take care of myself. This kind of life is what we know, and we are used to it. There is nothing we can do about it, and we have nothing to complain.”
Rahul Preeth, an Indian student, explained
how the family life of his country affects academic performance. “All the families I have known will last forever, and if a couple has problems, they have no choice but get through it. Divorce is something of a last resort for families in India,” he said. “I feel more secure because I know for sure that there is no way something can go wrong in my family. This gives me more strength to perform better at school.” Most American students will readily agree what they are now is because of how they were brought up. Indian students, unless they come here for higher education, and American students will never know what it really is like to be in each other’s shoes. They both miss out on certain things and get some things that the others won’t.
Contest
INVISIBLE CHILDREN APPEAR AT UCO
IPAD CONTEST
The organizations is geared to provide global awareness to topics such as the trafficking of women and children and liberty in North Korea.
By Larry Clore / Contributing Writer
PHOTO BY GARETT FISBECK
Campus Activity
Jacob Newton and Ramsey Payne from UCO’s Global Impact Volunteer Effort (GIVE) organization are hoping to bring awarness to the war effort in Africa by hosting an Invisble Children Road Crew event at UCO.
By Jenefar DeLeon / Staff Writer University of Central Oklahoma’s Global Impact Volunteer Effort will host the Invisible Children Road Crew 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 27, in Constitution Hall. The Road Crew will present a documentary of its work to help children who are being brainwashed into fighting for Joseph Kony of Nigeria’s Lord’s Resistance Movement. A Ugandan guest speaker will share his experience about the fighting that is happening in his country. Free food will be provided. GIVE just recently formed, and the organization has a year of being an official organization at UCO. The organization is geared to provide global awareness to topics including the Invisible Children, the trafficking of women and children, and Liberty in North Korea. “We hope to raise awareness about this issue,” Jacob Newton, GIVE organizer and junior business education major, said. “We hope this night will allow other student organizations to participate and students to become aware how they can help.” Ramsey Payne, GIVE organizer and sophomore political science major, said students and community members need to become aware of the crisis happening in Uganda and surrounding countries. “The fact that there are children involved and used is the
biggest issue,” he said. Both Payne and Newton agreed the crisis happening in Uganda can affect the United States. “It is a similar to the issues of human trafficking. It is brought here,” Newton said. Payne echoed, “How we can affect other countries, they can do the same here.” Currently GIVE has raised nearly $3,000 to be donated to the Invisible Children organization. “The Invisible Children Road Crew have said they are excited to be at UCO campus,” Payne said. “They say they that they are impressed with the amount of support and the work that we have done so far.” Newton said organizations including LiNK have praised the amount of support seen at the UCO campus. Newton said the success that they so far have in a short amount of time is being noticed, and he is impressed by how the organization is going. “OU has even called me to get advice of how to host an event for Invisible Children,” he said. “It is great to see how the issue is spreading to other college campuses.” Currently GIVE has 25-30 active members in the organization. “I am happy to see so many students wanting to help,” Newton said. “It’s great to see UCO students wanting to make an impact.” GIVE hosts its meeting every other Sunday at 8 p.m. in the Murdaugh Hall lobby. Its official last meeting of the semester will be this Sunday, April 25. That night the organization will discuss future plans and goals for the summer and upcoming fall and spring semesters. It will also discuss projects for the upcoming year.
The Technology Resource Center is accepting entries for a contest to win an Apple iPad. The contest is part of the “UCO Technology Discovery with Apple iPad” event on April 30. The TRC is holding this contest to get creative feedback on how students and faculty can use technology to enhance edu cation, according to Cynthia Rolfe, vice president in charge o information technology. To enter, students may write an essay, create video or create an audio file on ways to transform learning at UCO using an Apple iPad, according to Sonya Watkins, director, Technology Resource Center. The essay should be 500-750 words and double-spaced. I should also be saved as a rich text format (.rtf). This file can be read by most word processors. When saving a text file, there is an option to select the file type. If students choose to enter a video or audio file, the maximum length is 4 minutes. The audio file needs to be in mp3 format. The video file needs to be in mp4 format, according to Watkins. Contestants also need to complete an entry form, which can be found at http://technology.uco.edu. All entries must be re ceived by Monday, 5 p.m. A committee will select the three best entries. The students who submitted those entries will present their entry at the UCO Technology Discovery with Apple iPad event in the Forensic Building auditorium Room 106, April 30 at 1 p.m., according to Rolfe. Half of the judging will be done by the audience, who wil text their votes. The other half of the judging will be performed by a panel of judges, according to Rolfe. The winner of the contest will receive a 16-gigabyte Apple iPad. The two runners-up will receive a $25 iTunes gift card. All prizes are provided by Apple, according to Wat kins.
4
NEWS
APRIL 22, 2010
Campus Events
MISS HISPANIC PAGEANT CROWNS NEW QUEEN “Every girl brought something that made them special. Each girl is beautiful, talented and well-spoken. But Edith really shined at the competition.� By Jenefar DeLeon / Staff Writer University of Central Oklahoma kicked off its 11th annual Miss Hispanic UCO Scholarship Pageant Saturday, crowning freshman business administration major Edith Quinonez as Miss Hispanic UCO 2010. The event took place Saturday in Central’s Constitution Hall located in Nigh University Center. Families and friends gathered together to celebrate the rich Hispanic culture of the six competing contestants. This year the theme was “Bellezas del Carnaval,� meaning “Beauties of the Carnival.� Oklahoma City’s T30 Telemundo Entertainment Reporter Patricia Shaw-Ramirez, and Central’s Field Admission counselor for Prospective Student Services, Javier Puebla, served as the pageant’s emcees and began the night introducing the six contestants. “The event is about the opportunity to share their culture to the campus,� Lindsay Echols, coordinator for Central’s Multicultural Student Services, said. “But it also gives the girls the confidence to represent themselves and their culture to their friends and families present.� The night began with the opening number choreographed by junior dance education major and former Miss Hispanic UCO 20082009, Erika Reyes. Following the opening number, the program included a traditional wear competition, swimsuit, talent competition, evening wear, as well as a question and answer portion toward the end of the night. The six contestants wore traditional wear,
Edith Quinonez, a freshman business administration major, wins the 2010 Miss Hispanic UCO title. She participated in the pageant with five other contestants. Quinonez is pictured above with members of UCO’s Hispanic American Student Association. representing the several states of Mexico and the country of Ecuador. Several of the outfits were festive and true to the countries they represented. Before the emcees announced the winner, awards were given out including: Most Photogenic, awarded to sophomore political science major Vanessa Andrade; Miss Congeniality, awarded to junior Criminal Justice major Vanessa Delgadillo; People’s Choice
awarded again to Andrade; and lastly the Director’s Choice, awarded to junior international trade major Christy Quiroz. Second runner-up was awarded to sophomore forensic science major Vivian Briones, and first runner-up was awarded to Delgadillo. Quinonez then took the crown. “I am very happy,� she said. “This entire experience has been so great, and all the girls
deserved to win.� As part of the competition, each contestant had to represent a platform. Quinonez’s platform is to help bring awareness to the importance of health relations. She plans to work with other student organizations and to bring about workshops to high schools and junior highs about the importance of education and building healthy relations with others and self. She represents the state of Chihuahua, Mexico. “This year it was a tough competition,� Reyes said. “Every girl brought something that made them special. Each girl is beautiful, talented and well-spoken. But Edith really shined at the competition.� Reyes said her experience being Miss Hispanic UCO is a once in a lifetime opportunity. “My advice to Edith is to enjoy the entire journey,� she said. “It goes by so fast. And to be dedicated to your platform and enjoy the opportunity.� Reyes said what she enjoyed most was the opportunity to meet successful Latino business women and men in her community and meeting new friends. Reyes said she enjoyed working with the six contestants. “(What) I enjoyed most was being able to mentor the girls,� she said. “I can remember going through the same emotions and experiences, and I was happy to be able to give them advice.� As they were crowning Quinonez, she couldn’t believe how heavy the crown was. At the end of the night, families and friends went up the stage to embrace the winner.
Graduation
CAREER SERVICES OFFERS JOB ADVICE “Students can start preparing now for graduation to help further their chances of getting jobs. Accessible information is provided by the Office of Career Services.� By Priscilla Borrego / Contributing Writer After graduation, students at the University of Central Oklahoma are given various tools to secure jobs. UCO provides services that help students prepare for the big day. In order to start reducing the stress of finding a job after graduation, students are encouraged to stop by Career Services located in the Nigh University Center. It is never too early to start putting together your portfolio and resume Beth Adele, director of Career Services, said. “If your aunt’s dog doesn’t know you’re job searching, then you’re not job searching,� she said. “It’s who you know, not what you know.� The most common concerns students at UCO have when visiting Career Services are not being able to understand how to pick majors, seniors needing direction on how to put resumes together, and how to apply for internships. “I’m very nervous about finding a job,� Kristin Frosco, a senior public relations major, said. “Luckily my major is in PR, so I can look in virtually any field. That’s the only comforting feeling I have about graduation.� Emily Preaus, a senior in business, claimed she is ready to start her life outside of UCO. “I’m nervous to be in the real world but excited for the next step of my life to begin,� she said. Career Services supplies information for getting jobs, internships, graduate school, training programs, scholarships and honors opportunities. To help increase chances of finding a job
straight out of college, Career Services provides a career planning checklist. Incoming freshman students may begin by choosing classes that interest them in order to help discover what they are interested in. Sophomores can explore career alternatives by attending local meetings offered by student professional organizations. Also, UCO Sophomores can get experience early by working summer jobs and taking target electives that will help students be more employable. Juniors should take up resume building opportunities by doing internships and receiving professional experience and networking with companies. Students can attend career fairs and job searches online. Employment listings are available at Career Services as well. As a senior, the weight of responsibility begins to rise. Students are expected to have portfolios, resumes and cover letters at all times while attending interviews or job fairs. Working part time is an excellent way to gain professional experience. By logging on to http://www.uco.edu/hirebronchos, students can get help conducting job searches that match students with compatible jobs and internships for up to twelve months. Students are also able to create and manage E-portfolios and sign up for on-campus interviews. Students can start preparing now for graduation to help further their chances of getting jobs. Accessible information is provided by the Office of Career Services. For more helpful tips for post graduation, students can stop in the Center for Undergraduate Academic Advising and set up an appointment with an adviser.
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NEWS
APRIL 22, 2010
5
Technology
WITH THE DEATH OF THE COMPACT DISC IMMINENT, WHO’LL ATTEND THE FUNERAL? By Andrew Snow / Contributing Writer In a world where convenience is a commodity and the cell phone and e-mail rule our lives, where do CDs fit? Yes, just like so many of its ancestors (We’re looking at you, Cousin Cassette!), the CD appears to be becoming yet another prehistoric artifact to be gawked upon in a museum. What’s worse is this wasn’t a death of old age, but rather an outright murder. The perpetrator: MP3, the forerunner of digital music technology. It was the MP3 that drove its cold knife into the side of the CD format, and allured us with its promises of shelf space and convenience. The question to ask now: Is that really such a bad thing? Many of the articles published today about this shift in the music distribution industry focus on the topic as a betrayal in the highest right. In reality, the advent of MP3s in the early 2000s served as a complete reversal within the industry. Who needs CDs when you can just carry around the equivalent of 1,000 of them on a device the size of a bar of soap? Hold on to that thought for a second, then turn to your CDs and see if they’re still half as appealing. Of course, there is the sentimental attachment to the format that many are reluctant to let go. Few can deny this one fact: CD artwork is just plain cool. Very little is as satisfying as going through the belaboring process of opening the disc, only to pop it into your player and enjoy it while reading lyrics and/ or viewing photos of your favorite artist. In addition, it’s hard to deny the power of a tangible product that can be held in one’s hand. According to UCO student Lance Loomis, 20, the CD artwork is one of the most appealing things about the format. “With CD’s, artists hold a whole other market in the palm of their hand beyond their music: the artwork,” Loomis said. “That little booklet inside the CD case contains a lot more information that often gets taken for granted by casual listeners. For example, a CD booklet contains a lot of information about where the record was recorded, the record label that released it, and sometimes even lyrics.” So the MP3 format clearly has its downfalls, just like any other format of media in the uni-
Compact “CD” Disc
1982-2010 “Remember me” verse. However, the positive aspects of MP3s arguably outweigh these downfalls. Among these strengths is the format’s portability. In today’s fast-moving society, it’s always good to know you can listen to whatever music you want wherever you go. The importance of comfort in any situation is notoriously understated, and music certainly helps contribute. Another great strength, as stated above, is the space you can save by putting all of your music in one place: your computer. Many of the strengths of digital music stretch much further than the consumer, however. Artists can – and have – benefited greatly from selling their music on the Internet. Take the artist Radiohead for example, who for their seventh studio album “In Rainbows,” chose to sell the album exclusively through their website. Fans had the options of not even paying for the album or simply paying what they felt it was worth. This method turned out to be a huge success, and the album sold 1.2 million copies the day of its release online. Another
similar situation would be Trent Reznor and Nine Inch Nails, who chose to release an album of all instrumental tracks on their own. The album sold 750,000 copies upon initial release, overshadowing NIN’s previous CD release by thousands. This method of distribution also makes the industry much more profitable for the artists personally, as there is no longer any need to split profits between the artist and a record label. Lance Loomis pointed out a flaw about the online music market, however. “If you really get down to it, online music IS cheaper, but at the same time, that gives people like me less incentive to give the music repeat listens,” Loomis said. “In general, I don’t give music I download anything but a couple of listens at most. Even I’ll admit that robs the artist of what they’re owed.” These examples show again that bringing music to a digital format would not likely hinder sales, but only the record company that promotes the music. Fans and music listeners
REASONS TO BE AWARE OF EARTH DAY AND HOW TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE
3 million tons of iron ore, 575 thousand tons of tin, 330 thousand tons of bauxite (for aluminum), and 34 thousand tons of copper will be ripped from the Earth. People will consume more than 3 billion gallons of oil 50,000 acres of forest will be eliminated. 200 million tons of topsoil will be lost through erosion from croplands. Burning the oil and other fossil fuels will release 70 million tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
THE SOLUTION
THE PROBLEM
5
R.I.P.
are clearly no less interested in the music they love because it’s moving into a new realm of consumption and distribution. If music were to continue along the path that it’s currently riding, artists would be able to decide how they wanted to sell their music to fans and consumers themselves, and the vigor with which they want their music to sell. Digital music puts the burden of selling records in the hands of the artists themselves, which might be viewed as a double-edged sword, but there is very little in the industry that doesn’t work that way already. In many ways, it is more difficult to find something truly flawed with the system than it is to find something that benefits consumers better. Don’t feel like leaving the comfort of your home to purchase music? Simply download the music at your house. Don’t want to replace all of your CDs? Just put them into your computer and transfer them into digital files. The list goes on and on. The real harm in transferring to a digital music format lies within the record companies. In the future, these record companies will become dinosaurs, very similar to the CDs they try so hard to sell. It likely won’t be long until the record companies cash in on the success of digital music and begin distributing it that way. However, when presented with the creative freedom they now hold within them, will the artist want to oblige by what a record company wants? Perhaps it is not such a good thing to prematurely mourn the death of the compact disc. After all, do we really miss 8-tracks? I’m sure there are more than a few people in the world who are put off by the idea of their music being interrupted by an enormous clunk in the middle of their favorite song. It is very important to remember that more than a change in the status quo, the shift of music to a digital format is an evolution, without which music might not survive in its current state. Evolution is a necessary part of just about anything. In the next few years, we’re sure to see where digital music can take us, when the only things left in Best Buy’s music section are iTunes gift cards and empty space. Now if you’ll excuse me, I need to find out what to do with all my newfound shelf space.
Change your old light bulbs to new energy efficient compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs). If you can, buy a hybrid. If that is not a possibility then you can drive less, drive slower, or just keep your car tuned up. Keep control of your temperature at home. Buy a programmable thermostat, this will provide different temperatures to your home at different times of day. If you have one, use it! Watch the refrigerator. The fridge can use a lot of energy so keep it on “energy saver” or keep it out of the sun and away from heating vents. Buy recycled products whenever possible. It takes less energy to produce recycled products.
6
NEWS
APRIL 22, 2010
Library
Associated Press
P H OTO BY K AT H L EEN WEL L S
BOOK SALE INCREASES 150 PERCENT Q & A WITH THE ASSOCIATED PRESS While the cost of different items var-
UCO’s annual Library Book Sale took place April 16-18. Sponsored by the Max Chambers Library, the sale, which began in 2000, increased sales 150 percent this year over the 2009 sale.
By Jenefar DeLeon / Staff Writer University of Central Oklahoma’s annual Library Book Sale, which had more than 23,000 books, multimedia and education materials for sale, took place in the basement of UCO’s Max Chambers Library April 16-18. Sponsored by the Max Chambers Library and the Friends of the Library of Central, the book sale has been growing ever since it was first started in 2000. “The first time we had it was in 2000. People had been donating books and other things to the library for years,”
Gwen Dobbs, director of assessment for the Chambers Library, said. “We try to add most of the stuff to the library’s collection, but when we can’t, we put them into the book sale,” We have a few items that were withdrawn from the library’s collection because they were outdated or damaged beyond repair. The withdrawn item sales go straight back into the Chambers Library book budget, she said.
Materials for the book sale included everything from paperback and hardback books to K-12 curriculum materials to maps and media items.
ied, some were priced as low as 10 cents. UCO’s Friends of the Library, a support group that is dedicated to enriching the services of the Chambers Library and has been helping out with the library sale since 2002, had a special pre-sale for the Friends of the Library members on April 16, and the public was able to come to the sale April 17-18 from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. “The annual book sale raises 25 to 50 percent of the Friends of the Library’s annual contributions,” Dobbs said. “Proceeds from the sale go toward the purchase of library materials and public programming including speakers, film showings and student awards.” Even though the economy has taken a hit over the last two years, we had a 150 percent increase in sales in 2009 when compared to 2008, Dobbs said. We made around $3,500 in 2008, and we doubled it in 2009. I guess in a bad economy, people value their libraries. This is also about raising awareness that education is important, she added. This library sale has taken months of planning. “The library sales committee, which is mainly made up of Friends of the Library, have been working from January to make this happen,” Charles Melson, a member of the library sales committee, said. “Advertising, working with the other branches of the university, deciding the price of the items – it takes a lot of organizing,”
Curiosity about the number of people unemployed during the Great Depression inspired one of the questions in this edition of “Ask AP,” a weekly Q&A column where AP journalists respond to readers’ questions about the news.
Q:
What was the highest number of unemployed people during the Depression of the 1930s?
A:
The unemployment rate spiked at 24.9 percent in 1933. The number of out of work people swelled to 12.8 million, while a total of 38.8 million people had jobs. The way the government measured employment was different back then. For instance, figures are based on workers 14 years of age and older. Today’s employment figures are based on workers 16 years and older. As of March, 138.9 million people were employed, while 15 million were without jobs. The unemployment rate stands at 9.7 percent, close to its highest levels since the early 1980s. The labor force, however, has tripled since 1933. That’s why the unemployment rate is lower now than back then — even though there are more people out of work.
Q:
Several times I thought a reporter mentioned that there was an El Nino this year. However, it was colder than normal in the Midwest and East in February and March. In previous El Nino years, I thought it was usually warm and dry in the winter and spring. Is there an El Nino?
A:
A moderate-to-strong El Nino is under way and is expected to continue through spring. In the past, El Ninos have been associated with heavy East Coast snowstorms but El Nino winters often tend to be mild over Western Canada and much of the northern United States.
Campus Events
Congratulations Greek Convocation 2010 Award Recipients Greek Momentum Award Alpha Xi Delta
Outstanding Advisor Nathan Box, Pi Kappa Alpha
Inter-Fraternity Council Man of the Year
Michael Ooten, Sigma Tau Gamma
National Pan-Hellenic Council Member of the Year Curtesia Plunkett, Zeta Phi Beta Panhellenic Woman of the Year Ashley ‘Eddie’ Edwards, Delta Zeta Order of Omega Member of the Year Lindsay Armstrong, Alpha Xi Delta Outstanding Greek Seniors
Kamisha Busby, Zeta Phi Beta Vanessa Canfield, Alpha Gamma Delta Ashley ‘Eddie’ Edwards, Delta Zeta Aubrey Frazier, Alpha Gamma Delta Levi Harrel, Tau Kappa Epsilon Michael Ooten, Sigma Tau Gamma Curtesia Plunkett, Zeta Phi Beta Tabitha Terrell, Alpha Kappa Alpha
2010 Greek Goddess Cate Little, Sigma Kappa 2010 Greek God
Logan Pennington, Pi Kappa Alpha
Council Presidency Recognition
IFC, Ryan Key, Pi Kappa Alpha NPHC, MiQueal Beyah, Omega Psi Phi Panhellenic, Shannon Sewell, Sigma Kappa
Greek Week Champions 2010 Team 1 Alpha Xi Delta Sigma Nu Sigma Tau Gamma Zeta Phi Beta
Fall 2009 Highest IFC GPA Sigma Tau Gamma
Fall 2009 Highest MGC GPA Sigma Lambda Gamma Fall 2009 Highest NPHC GPA Phi Beta Sigma Fall 2009 Highest Panhellenic GPA Sigma Kappa
Fall 2009 Highest Sorority GPA Sigma Lambda Gamma
Fall 2009 Highest Fraternity GPA Sigma Tau Gamma
Fall 2009 All-Greek Scholars Monta Johnson, Alpha Xi Delta
Spring 2009 Highest IFC GPA Pi Kappa Alpha Spring 2009 Highest MGC GPA Phi Delta Alpha Spring 2009 Highest NPHC GPA Zeta Phi Beta Spring 2009 Highest Panhellenic GPA Sigma Kappa
ROTC COMPETES IN DEATH MARCH By Ryan Costello / Staff Writer On March 21, 2010, Cadets from University of Central Oklahoma’s Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps, competed in the 20th annual Bataan Memorial Death March at White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico. The Bataan Memorial Death March is a 26.2-mile march over varying terrain of paved roads, dirt paths and loose sand that 5,700 competitors came to compete in. At the march, the competitors are ranked into two classifications, heavy and light. Light competitors are allowed to run the course like a traditional marathon, but the heavy competitors are required to carry a backpack that weighs at least 35 pounds. Cadets from the Broncho Battalions included: Joseph Amico, Ray Beckman, Keith Dugan, Ian Naylor, Ben Neterer, MSG Christian Johnson who competed in the heavy category, and 2LT Jessica Amico who competed in the light category. Naylor, one of the competitors for UCO, spoke lightly of the competition itself. “It got a little warm there after awhile,” Naylor joked. The Bataan Memorial Death March is not only a competition, but an event to honor fallen soldiers of the Bataan Death March during World War II. On April 9, 1942, tens of thousands of American and Filipino soldiers were forced to surrender to the Japanese in the Philippine Islands. The soldiers were then forced on a fourday march through the hot, malaria-infested region of the Philippines with little or no food. Those who could no longer walk, or fell
ill, were executed on the spot. Those soldiers who were still capable of walking were not free from worry either, as they were subject to random executions as they marched. Those who survived the march were only welcomed by a prisoner-of-war camp in which they were forced to labor and were starved. Despite the many hardships that burdened those soldiers, there were still survivors. Those survivors who remain today come to the Bataan Memorial Death March every year to talk about their experiences in the Philippines and shake the hands of the competitors as they begin the 26.2-mile march. “When we started, they had all of the vets sitting in front of us,” Naylor said. “One of the things that gets you was when they called role. ... Some of these guys were over 80 years old, and they still screamed it at the top of their lungs.” Naylor said many of the names spoken during the role call were never answered, but not because of a lack of enthusiasm or attention. Many of the names called were those of soldiers who had since passed away. “It was pretty emotional,” Naylor said. All military branches were represented at the Bataan March. Also, some international participants were present during the competition. Volunteers nationwide supported the march. They assisted with handing out medical aid, food and drinks to those who participated in the event.
Technology continued from pg. 1
Spring 2009 Highest Sorority GPA Sigma Kappa
Spring 2009 Highest Fraternity GPA Pi Kappa Alpha
Spring 2009 All-Greek Scholar Monta Johnson, Alpha Xi Delta
happens next. But is it really as bad as all that? Living in a constantly advancing, 24-hour “e-world” may not be as menacing as it is inevitable. “Humans are fundamentally meaning makers – they interpret, define, and make meaning of their surroundings,” Steward said. Steward compared the human role in tech advancement to something simpler. When he was young, Steward said the tradition of the
day was to have children’s birthday parties in the living room. Then there were the block parties, the McDonald’s playroom get-togethers that gave way to arcade birthday celebrations, and so on and so forth. “Even though the venues changed, it still meant something,” Steward said. “Although the technology changes lead to communication changes, one thing remains constant – humans will make meaning of it.”
CLASSIFIEDS
APRIL 22, 2010 EMPLOYMENT
SERVICES
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
Server Positions The Language Available Company: EdPearls Lakeside. Apply within. 748-6113 mond 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.
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
FOR RENT
House for Rent
1 bedroom $350 + utilities. No Pets No smoking. 31 1/2 West Hurd Edmond. Call Patty 408-8765
1, 2 & 3 Bedroom Apartment B a b y s i t t e r Homes ~Spring Creek of Edmond~ Needed Huge Student Discount! Babysitter needed for sum- No application fee or Security mer and 2010-2011 school Deposit w/ Student ID year for two boys, (7&4) 341-3932 Summer: 4 days per week. School year: mornings and afternoons.Paid cash daily, $10 p/h.405-249-4533. 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 Hiring for waitstaff, busers, UCO students. Rent includes dishwashers, host, bar tender. all utilities, basic cable, high Apply in person at Northpark speed wireless internet, onMall (NW 127nd N. May) af- site washer/dryer, and offter 5:30 pm. 749-0120 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. Full/Part-time positions If interested in living in a available at Comet Cleaners. nice, quiet home please 1401 S. Kelley Avenue 359- contact:Keith(405)633-1250 5958 or email lashleyfamily@hotmail.com
Shogun’s Steak House Of Japan
Positions Available
Handy Student Wanted
Lawn maintenance, carpentry, painting. Near UCO. Mist be self-motivated, trustworthy, able to work unsupervised. 641-0712
Nanny Position
Mature, professional nonsmoking female needed for nanny services. Summer hours: Drop son off at camp at 8:45, and pick up at camp @ 3:00. During school year hours: Mon.-Fri. 8:00 am to 5:00 pm (Summer Hours) 2:45 to~5:15 p.m. for 20102011 school year (August 13th school start date). Must have a safe vehicle and be a safe driver able to pick up 1 boy (ages 8) from school and drive to Edmond home. Overview of expectations include: preparing a nutritious snack, assisting in homework and participating in age-appropriate activities with the child. Salary, competitive will be based on qualifications and experience. Please send a resume (listing childcare and other prior jobs) along with three references to mary.hartman@chk.com.
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
Across
Female Roomate 1. “Hamlet” has five 5. Inevitably Needed 11. Pistol, slangily 14. Drag 15. Oil source 16. “The Three Faces of ___” 17. Cape Town is its capital 19. ___ green 20. Spring into view 21. Up 23. Abbr. after a name 24. Ado 26. Bring on 27. Disappear 29. 100 cents 32. ___ probandi 33. Least bit Apartment for 35. “Blue” or “White” river Rent 1 BD APT. Gas & Water 37. Atlanta-based station Paid. No Pets! Near UCO. 38. Monogamy advo1209 N. Roosevelt. $375.00/ cates Mo. Phone 641-0712 41. PC “brain” 43. Got bigger 44. Mozart’s “L’___ del Cairo” “Education is 45. Brewer’s equipment 47. “Awright!” like a 49. ___ one double-edged 53. Flexible mineral Canine cry sword. It may 54. 56. Charlotte-to-Raleigh be turned to dir. 57. Period of no growth dangerous uses 61. Show, as a historic battle if it is not 63. Astern 64. Misdeed properly 66. Morgue, for one handled.” 67. Undisturbed 68. Cotton fabric 69. Addition ~Wu Ting-Fang 70. Swollen state 71. Lentil, e.g.
Down
1. Laughable 2. Cask maker 3. Reliable 4. Pitch 5. In pieces 6. Left-handed person 7. “This means ___!” 8. Cuckoos 9. Ew! 10. “Don’t go!” 11. Coats again 12. Crowded 13. Most gone 18. Fastening door 22. First name?
WORD SEARCH
25. Easy victory
28. Amateur video subject, maybe 30. Backboard attachment 31. Assortment
34. Bloody 36. Coop flier 38. Sweet wine 39. “Fancy that!” 40. Bit 41. Examine together 42. Bucketful 46. Sylvester, to Tweety 48. Regarding this point 50. Bully 51. Wages 52. Foursome 55. Foxlike-faced animal 58. Give off, as light 59. Hokkaido native
60. “Back in the ___” 62. Drops off
65. Archaeological site
Bean
Fennel
Parsley
Beet
Fitch
Capsicum
Garlic
Pea
Cauliflower
Gourd
Celery
Kale
Chard
Leek
Chicory
Lentil
Sage
Chili
Lettuce
Shallot
Chive
Maize
Cole
Marrow
Soy
Corn
Mustard
Cress
Nettle
Cucumber
Okra
Endive
Onion
ANSWER FROM APRIL 20
Pimento Pulse Pumpkin
Spinach Swede Tomato Yam
7
8
SPORTS
APRIL 22, 2010
Men’s Golf
PHOTO BY JEREMY ENLOW
BRONCHOS TAKE THIRD
UCO sophomore Andrew Green tees off at the Lone Star Conference Tournament this past weekend. The Broncho men placed third.
By Ryan Costello / Staff Writer The UCO men’s golf team picked a good time to secure its second third-place finish of the season. UCO’s showing at the Lone Star Conference Men’s Golf Championship in Thackerville, Okla., was wrapped up on Tuesday, just in time for the NCAA Division II brass to determine whether the Bronchos will be heading to the South Central Regional tournament in May. The LSC Championships were at Thackerville’s WinStar golf course. The Bronchos shot their best round of the year in the second day of the three-day com-
petition, and followed that performance with an even better one. A 10-under 278 in the tournament’s final round, UCO’s best of the season, secured a third-place finish for the Bronchos, who fell just six shots short of Abilene Christian University, the winner of the 10-team tournament. UCO may well have been much further down the leader boards were it not for the efforts of Broncho clubbers Andrew Green and Zach Cleland. Green finished third overall in the individual running with a total 10-under 206 following a five-under par 67 on Monday and a 6-under 66 on Tuesday. Cleland was just three strokes behind for a seven-under 209, good
for fourth place. “A.G. and Zach were just phenominal for us throughout the tournament, especially rhe last two days,” head coach Dax Johnston said to bronchosports.com. “They hit the ball great and made a lot of putts and I couldn’t be more proud of them.” Green managed four birdies against just one bogey on Tuesday’s final round front nine, and had three birdies and six pars in the back nine to finish at six under. The upstart sophomore finished just one stroke off of a playoff shot against Abilene Christian teammates Cyril Bouniol and Alex Carpenter. Cleland, in what could be his final round as a Broncho golfer, finished with class and a new record low. The senior’s final-round 67
was his career low, and he did it without a single bogey in the day, shooting for birdies in five holes and holding out for par in the remaining 15. In his four LSC Championship appearances, Cleland finished fourth twice, eighth once, and 13th once. Junior J.B. Law also had a solid round on the tournament’s final day. Law shot a oneunder 35 on the front nine, and pulled off an even par on the back nine to finish one-under with a 71 on the day. UCO will next hold out to learn if they will receive a bid to Duncan, Okla.’s regional tournament from May 3-5.
Women’s Golf
LADY BRONCHOS PLACE FOURTH
By Ryan Costello / Staff Writer The UCO women’s golf team wrapped up the Lone Star Conference Women’s championships inThackerville, Okla., on Tuesday, finishing fourth behind back-to-back season-best scores and the effort of one particular Broncho. Senior Cassy Knight, who won the individual title at the LSC Championship a year ago, was primed to repeat after two solid opening days had her in the mix near the top of the leader board. With a 37 on the front nine to
open the tournament’s final round, however, Knight’s chances to finish in the top spot for a second consecutive year seemed slim, but four straight pars to open the back nine set up a final five holes to remember. On 14, 15, and 16, three holes at WinStar golf course that Knight had struggled with on the first two days, the senior Broncho golfer used a stellar approach game to tap in for birdie on 14 and 15 before sinking and eight-foot birdie putt on 16. Pars on 17 and 18 cemented her final round two under even at 70.
Knight would have to wait another hour after her round was finished to learn that her even-par 216 total was indeed enough for the tourney win. “I wasn’t trying to win it again. I was just trying to play good,” Knight said to bronchosports.com. “It’s awesome, a great feeling. I played the best I have all season, and everything came together.” Knight wasn’t the only Broncho who celebrated a strong outing in Thackerville. Junior Raelynn Farthing finished seventh overall in the individual
running with a total score of 225, and sophomore Erica Bensch shot a career-low 72 in the final round. Bensch struggled in the tournament’s first two rounds, including a 12-over 84 on the second day, and seemed to be on her way to yet another tough round with two early bogeys on Tuesday. The young Broncho would bounce back, though, sinking two birdies to even out the front nine before rattling of nine straight pars on the pack nine en route to setting her career mark. A strong showing for the Bron-
chos, including two straight days setting season-low marks, would put them just short of finishing on the podium. After a mediocre 322 to open the competition, the Bronchos climbed up to fourth place with a secondround 304. In the final round, the Bronchos again had a solid outing, posting a 296 to close out their regular season with their best score of the year. The UCO score of 922 was bested by Tarleton State (903), West Texas A&M (907) and Angelo State (912).
NEXT WEEK IN SPORTS
CONTINUED NBA PLAYOFF COVERAGE & IN-DEPTH NFL DRAFT COVERAGE LISTEN TO SPORTS EDITOR CHRIS WESCOTT BREAK DOWN THE FIRST ROUND OF THE NFL DRAFT THIS FRIDAY FROM NOON TO 3 ON ED 90.1
SPORTS
APRIL 22, 2010
9
NFL Draft
By Chris Wescott / Sports Editor As April 22 approaches, and with it the 2010 NFL draft, college prospects around the nation are getting anxious and excited. It is all in anticipation of hearing their names called at the podium. For a select group of a couple hundred football players, this Thursday, Friday and Saturday will send them on their way to the professional ranks. Deji Karim is one of those prospects. Deji Karim went to high school at Putnam City North in Oklahoma City. Karim moved on to Southern Illinois to play running back in college. Karim rushed 240 times for 1,694 yards and 18 touchdowns as a senior at Southern Illinois. The explosive player rushed for a 7.1 yards-per-attempt average. Karim also established he has skills coming out of the backfield, catching 17 passes for 212 yards and a score. His longest run was a 93-yard highlight reel sprint, and his longest reception, a 48yard catch. His brilliant senior campaign opened NFL scouts’ eyes and made him a finalist for the Walter Payton Award. The Walter Payton Award is given to NCAA Division I-AA’s best player. Karim has heard many things when it comes to where he will end up in the draft. Right now, he is just happy to hear his name in the discussion. “I’ve heard anywhere from the fourth to the seventh,” Karim said. “I don’t even know. I just hope my name is called. “I’m really excited. Just to be able to be mentioned in the NFL draft is amazing. All the hard work I’ve put in since little league all the way up to middle school, high school, college and now, it’s getting put up to the professional level. Now, getting close to, and being close to your dream, you know, that’s amazing. It’s all excitement. All the excitement in the world.” Looking back on his two-year career with the Southern Illinois Salukis, the 23-year-old
PHOTO BY CHRIS WESCOTT
POTENTIAL STEAL?
Deji Karim poses for a photo at Tirey’s Training in Edmond. Karim is looking forward to his opportunity in the NFL to show people his talent. He is projected to go anywhere from the fourth to sixth round.
said there isn’t one single moment that was his favorite. “I don’t know if I have a favorite one, but I mean, I just loved every bit of it. Every bit of playing for Southern Illinois, scoring touchdowns, everything. It’s just fun. The brotherhood that developed between the teammates that you have, and the relationships you built with the coaches and everything. I loved everything about it.” When asked if there was just one word he could use to describe his style of play, Karim answered immediately and without hesitation. “Speed,” Karim said. “I’m really fast. I ran a 4.37 at my pro day, and my phone’s been
blowing up ever since. I guess I’m fast. I’m a fast player.” Karim stands at 5-foot-11 and roughly 205 pounds. At those measurements, you would think he would figure to be a change of pace or scatback. “I consider myself being able to do all,” the confident running back said. “I’m all around. I can do power. I can run between the tackles. I can also get loose, make one person miss and take it all the way.” Karim, like any other draft pick, will not have a choice in which team picks him. The former Putnam City North star couldn’t care less about the lack of say in his occupational future. He just wants his shot, no matter who
it’s with. “I don’t have a specific choice,” Karim said. “I just want to play football. That’s basically it. My dream has been to play NFL football, and it doesn’t matter where I play it. As long as I’m playing pro football, I’ll be happy.” Multiple teams have shown interest in the once NEO player, turned Southern Illinois star running back. Karim has visited five teams and worked out for one. He has visited the Indianapolis Colts, San Diego Chargers, Philadelphia Eagles, Jacksonville Jaguars and Detroit Lions. His workout was with the Eagles. Oddly enough, Karim has been compared to an Eagles running back by his peers. “I don’t really like to compare, but everybody always asks that question. Everybody tells me it’s Brian Westbrook. I don’t know. I want to leave my own imprint on the game as “Deji Karim”. But, that’s what everyone else tells me.” Although he is facing adversity, coming from a small school, Karim has no regrets, and his confidence has never been higher. He believes in his own abilities and his potential. “I think I can be one of the greatest running backs if I get the opportunity. I work hard; I do everything I can to get to that next level. I’ve done it all my life. I’ve always worked under lower (expectations). I went from NEO. From the bottom to the lower division – what they call Division I-AA – and played football, and they say it’s still not enough. So, I’m striving to be the best running back, one of the best, in the same sentence as some of the best running backs that ever played the game.” Round one of the 2010 NFL draft will take place tonight at 6:30 Central time. Rounds two through three will take place on Friday, and the following four through seven rounds will be on Saturday. It is unlikely Karim will hear his name called on day one or two of the draft. So his hopes lie on this Saturday. No matter where he goes, however, Deji Karim is getting ready for his shot to leave his mark on the professional ranks. He could just be one of the steals of the draft.
NBA Playoffs
A THUNDERING LOSS By Ryan Costello / Staff Writer The young Oklahoma City Thunder learned a few things about themselves Tuesday night. They almost taught the seasoned Lakers a lesson as well. The Thunder fell for the second time in as many games at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, but stayed with the Lakers throughout despite again struggling from the floor and staring up at a 37-49 rebounding disadvantage. The final tally sat at 95-92 as the Thunder twice missed quality 3-point looks in their final two possessions. “That was about as well as we can play, and we came up a little short,” Thunder coach Scott Brooks said to ESPN after the game. “Two games in a row we gave the effort defensively.” That defensive effort included a franchisebest mark of 17 blocks in the playoffs, seven of them tallied by Air Congo himself, Thunder rookie Serge Ibaka. Oklahoma City had their first lead of the series after losing wire to wire in game one, and had a 9-6 advantage in the early minute before guard Russell Westbrook was whistled for his second personal foul. While Westbrook, who again served as a lightning rod for the upstart Thunder, was riding the bench, the Lakers took an eightpoint lead at 26-18 into the second quarter. Things seemed to be headed in a difficult direction for the Thunder, who trailed by double digits in the second quarter, when Westbrook was penalized for his third personal foul of the half on an Oscar-worthy flop
by Laker guard Derek Fisher. It was just then, however, despite the deficit, and despite having their second best scorer on the bench, that the Thunder began to wake up. An 11-2 run by the Thunder highlighted a second quarter that saw Oklahoma City shoot better than 50 percent and snatch a halftime lead at 47-45. After trading punches, and leads throughout the third and fourth quarters, Laker future hall of famer Kobe Bryant, who finished with a game-high 39 points, did what he has gained a reputation for over the last decadeplus. Bryant was 4-8 from the floor and 7-8 from the free-throw stripe in the fourth quarter, and his 15-point performance in the final stanza would prove to be the difference for the Lakers. “He made the tough shots,” Kevin Durant said of Bryant. “He got to the free-throw line, and that’s what great players do.” Durant hit a few big shots himself, rebounding from a subpar playoff debut with 32 points and eight rebounds on 12-26 shooting. Game three will be on Thursday in the Ford Center downtown, and the Thunder will have the dubious task of hosting the playoff-tested Lakers in a tough spot. Los Angeles is 39-1 all-time after starting a seven-game series with a 2-0 lead. “That place is going to be rocking and rolling,” Bryant said. “The last time we were there they did a number on us.” If loud city has its way, this time will be no different.
10
SPORTS
APRIL 22, 2010
Editor’s Mock Draft
IT BEGINS TONIGHT PHOTO PROVIDED
The NFL draft begins tonight. Vista sports editor, Chris Wescott, previews who he believes will be picked top 10.
NFL draft prospect Sam Bradford of Oklahoma throws the ball during a youth football clinic at Central Park in New York, Wednesday, April 21, 2010.
By Chris Wescott / Sports Editor Tonight marks the start of the 2010 NFL draft. Round one will begin 6:30 p.m. Central. Rounds two to seven will follow over the next few days. It is this first round, however, in which the highest rated prospects will be drafted into the professional league. As sports editor of The Vista, here is my final take on how the top 10 picks will turn out.
1.
St. Louis Rams Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma While there could be an attempt by the Cleveland Browns or another team to trade up to this spot and take the University of Oklahoma signal caller, I am mocking this draft with no trades. Bradford is the smart pick here, and the only pick in my opinion. St. Louis has lacked a franchise quarterback since they let Kurt Warner go. It’s time to pull the trigger on your future field general.
2.
Detroit Lions Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma Many believe defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh is the pick here. That is the most likely scenario. It is followed closely by Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma State. All three of these players could go to Detroit. However, I believe that McCoy is the surprise pick over Suh. Don’t be surprised if Suh or Okung get picked though, as Detroit has shown interest in all three.
3.
Tampa Bay Bucs Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska. If he doesn’t go to Detroit, he is a near lock to go to Tampa Bay. Suh is a beast of a defensive tackle. He can disrupt the pass or run game. While I believe McCoy might just have more run-stopping ability than Suh, the Nebraska prospect is as good as they come. Plus, his name means “House of Spears.” Come on …
4.
Washington Redskins Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma State He’s a great player, and the best left tackle prospect in the draft. Dominant, athletic, quick feet and solid technique are all words to describe Okung. Washington got a quarterback in their trade for Donovan McNabb. Now it’s time to work on that awful offensive line. Congrats Redskins fans, you get your franchise left tackle.
5.
Kansas City Chiefs Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma I am tempted to mock Tennessee safety Eric Berry here, but I believe the Chiefs will fall in love with Williams’ athleticism. Williams has what it takes to be a great tackle in the NFL. However, he had a lackluster senior season. I think Kansas City sees past that and goes left
tackle at 5. That makes four of the top five picks from Oklahoma. What a great day to be an Okie if that happens.
6.
Seattle Seahawks Bryan Bulaga, OT, Iowa With Okung and Williams off the board, the next best thing is Bulaga. But don’t think you’re getting the third option in this Iowa lineman. In my opinion, Bulaga is the most technically sound lineman in the draft. Not only that, but he may be better than Williams. With the run on offensive tackles beginning, Seattle may feel the pressure to take a lineman here. Bulaga would be a nice prize for Seattle who is in desperate need of upgrades on the offensive line.
7.
Cleveland Browns Eric Berry, S, Tennessee The Browns may be taking a hard look at Jimmy Clausen here. However, it is the playmaking ability and Ed Reed comparisons of Eric Berry that forced my hand at mocking this Cleveland pick. The Browns could do worse.
8.
Oakland Raiders Rolando McClain, LB, Alabama.
Ah, the Raiders. A nightmare for mock draft everywhere. I wouldn’t be surprised if Oak land picked Jimmy Clausen. I also wouldn’ be surprised if they picked Joe Haden, Derrick Morgan, Dan Williams or Brandon Graham McClain may be a bit of a reach at eighth over all. But, then again, when have the Raiders no reached over the past few years?
9.
Buffalo Bills Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame.
For me, this was an easy pick. After watch ing a video in which a Buffalo Bills scout de clared Clausen had everything they wanted in a quarterback and his maturity issues were done, I am convinced that if Clausen slips pas Cleveland, Seattle and Oakland, he will be a Bill. As I wrote a month or so ago in The Vista Clausen has the potential to be a franchise quarterback. The Bills have lacked one since Jim Kelly retired.
10.
Jacksonville Jaguars Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech.
Morgan is the best pass rusher in the draft Despite reports the Jaguars may take Tim Tebow at the 10th spot, I believe it would be smarter to pick Morgan.
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