Volume 116, Issue 32
the VISTA “Our Words, Your Voice.”
ucentralmedia.com vistanews1903 @thevista1903 @thevista1903 The Vista
Tuesday, November 13, 2018
TPS Addresses Lack of Housing Parking Vy Luong @vy169 Reporter
Students occupy all possible parking spaces outside of the University of Central Oklahoma’s University Suites. Transportation and Parking Services is introducing a new 30-minute parking spaces to address the lack of available parking. (Tanner Laws/The Vista)
The University of Central Oklahoma’s Transportation and Parking Services established a new short-term parking option to assist housing residents with the loading and unloading of their vehicles. TPS Director Josh Stone said it will give housing residents more options for short term usage. Students can now unload their groceries or furniture at the front door of their building instead of walking from the parking lots. “We work really closely with Housing and we want students’ experience to be a positive one,” Stone said. “It seems like a solution that would solve See “PARKING” on Pg. 6
While Still Low, Edmond’s UCO’s International Festival Violent Crime is on the Rise Opens Free to Community
Austin Moseley
Christian Tabak
@Austin_Moseley Online Editor
For the fourth straight year, Oklahoma’s violent crime rate has increased, according to the FBI’s Crime Data Explorer. Oklahoma’s violent crime rate hasn’t been lower than the national average in 18 years. In 2017, Oklahoma’s violent crime rate was 455.2 incidents per 100,000 people, 62.2 points higher than the national average. Out of the categories the FBI’s database keeps track of, which include See “CRIMES” on Pg. 5
@CaffeineWallace Editor-In-Chief
A University of Central Oklahoma Police Department car parked outside of the UCOPD. While still low, Edmond’s violent crime rate is increasing compared to previous years. (Gerald Leong/The Vista)
For the first time, the annual International Festival, hosted by the University of Central Oklahoma’s International Student Council, will be free to both community members and students in an effort increase cultural awareness in the Edmond community. “We decided to make the International Festival free this year so we could attract and open the festival to more people,” said ISC President Amanda Goh. “This way, we can reach people who want to learn more See “FESTIVAL” on Pg. 7
The University of Central Oklahoma’s Vietnamese Student Association performs as part of the 2017 International Festival. This year’s festival is free to the community. (Provided/International Student Council)
OKLAHOMA NEWS
BRONCHO SPORTS
New Opioid Law Adds Safeguards for Prescribing
Bronchos Stumble in Home Finale
See “OPIOIDS” on Pg. 5
See “HORNETS” on Pg. 12
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the
Nov. 13, 2018
VISTA
CONTENTS
Shebang/Trailblazer...........................................................3 Around Campus ...................................................................4 Opioid/Crime..................................................................5 Parking/Asian Studies..........................................................6 Festival...................................................................7 ACM@UCO........................................................................8 Letters to the Editor..............................................................11 Sting..................................................................12 Kicks....................................................................13 Freeze....................................................................14 Hot Start/Streak.................................................................15
THE VISTA
is published as a newspaper and public forum by UCO students, weekly during the academic year, 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 and must include the author’s printed name, major, classification and phone number. Phone numbers are included for contacting purposes only. 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 73034-5209, or deliver in person to the editor in the Communications Building, Room 131. Letters can be emailed to thevista.ads@gmail.com.
Contents
STAFF Christian Tabak Katie Standlee Jonathan Goudeau Tanner Laws Megan Thele Austin Moseley Michelle Pennza Skyler Baldwin Vy Luong Yi Wen Wong Lauren Morris Madison Bolton James Jackson Derek Parker Samantha Karbelk Gerald Leong Teddy Burch Alex Brown
Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor Sports Editor Photo Editor Copy Editor Online Editor Design Editor Editorial Cartoonist Reporter Reporter Reporter Reporter Sports Reporter Sports Reporter Photographer Photographer Adviser Advertising Specialist
Advertise with us! On the Cover: The Vista is published weekly during the spring, summer and fall semesters. In all issues, The Vista has opportunities for both digital, online and print ads. For information or questions contact: 405-974-5549 or thevista.ads@ gmail.com
Left: This booth was outside of the Wellness Center on Oct. 26 to collect prescription drugs that were no longer in use. Senate Bill 1446 has initiated new law changes for opioid prescribing, and placed safeguards to prevent abuse and addiction.(Samantha Karbelk/The Vista) Right: UCO H-Back Daunte McGee stiff-arms an Emporia State defender during Saturday’s homegame. (Gerald Leong/The Vista)
Clarification
The Vista Weekly Editorial
In our Oct. 30 issue article, “The Cost of Athletic Retention,” The VISTA reported that the Sports Performance Center housed three dedicated academic advisors based on information from Sports Media Director Chris Brannick. Brannick has since clarified that these positions are for academic support, not advisement, and that student athletes still go to the Undergraduate Advisement Office in the Nigh University Center.
by Skyler Baldwin
Shebang/Trailblazer
Nov. 13, 2018
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The Whole Shebang Starts Conversations
Yi Wen Wong @TheVista1903 Reporter
In an effort to bring international cultures together through means of discussions, food and music at The Whole Shebang event that was on Saturday in the International House. The event was hosted by Taneika Gibson and Prateek Shetty, Ms. and Mr. International UCO 2018-2019. The event was named the The Whole Shebang, because they wanted to cover the mixture of elements that would be presented in the event. Shetty’s platform is “Making People Aware of International Cultures” and he also focuses on other practices, and Gibson’s platform is “I Am Not My Skin." Gibson said their platforms are both very similar, and they decided to hold an event together to promote their platforms. “We want to fight stereotypes against international and domestic students, and having this discussion really helped,” Gibson said. The discussion was hosted by Rasta Khiz, assistant executive director of the UCO Office of Global Affairs. During the discussion Khiz provided people with questions, and students from different places around the world would share their experiences from their cultural perspective. “It is really important for people to know how to engage with international students, how perspectives are different culturally,” Khiz said. “Such simple things that they mentioned, we do not pay attention here and when they talked about it, it is a big and different thing in another country.” Some of Khiz's examples were holding a door for others and greeting strangers with "how are you?", which are social norms in America, but not in other countries such as Malaysia.
Students dance at the Shebang event hosted by the University of Central Oklahoma in the International House Ballroom on Saturday, Nov. 10. (Vy Luong/The Vista)
Khiz asked the audience questions such as: dating differences, family cultural differences, cultural elements that you would like to bring from your country, first impression of Oklahoma, etc. Amanda Goh, president of the International Student Council, said her first impression of Oklahoma was that it was more of a flat land, filled with farm animals but instead, she grew to love Oklahoma more by knowing the culture here and the gorgeous places. After the discussion, Shetty and Gibson had different games for the students and food was provided from different international restaurants. There was food representing Pakistan, Indian, Bangladesh, Korea, Arab, South America, Africa and Vietnam. “A slightly better domestic student turnout would have helped give a better domestic perspective of international cultures,” Shetty said. “But it was a good turnout for me personally, because it was the first big event I’ve hosted on the UCO campus and people wiped out the food.”
Watkins Awarded Trailblazer Award Madison Bolton @TheVista1903 Reporter
University of Central Oklahoma's chief information officer Sonya Watkins has won the 2018 Trailblazer award from the Oklahoma Women in Technology Organization. "This award is given to a member of our organization who has through example provided a path for other women to achieve milestones in their career," said Brandy Semore, member of OKWIT. OKWIT was founded by Semore and three other women almost three years ago. Watkins joined OKWIT in 2016, "I appreciate the networking opportunities and the great programming provided by the organization." Watkins said. This organization has about 1,500 members statewide, according to Semore. OKWIT provides scholarships and monthly events for members to further networking and education. Semore said Watkins is a great example of this award, not only is she in technology but she is excelling as a woman of minority. One particular program Watkins enjoys is the mentorship program through OKWIT. "I can attribute much of my professional growth
to the amazing support and mentorship I have received over the years," Watkins said. "I am pleased that OKWIT provides an opportunity for young women in STEM to receive this kind of support and I enjoy participating as a mentor in the program." Watkins is very involved in the program and even helps fund it, according to Semore. A career in technology was never Watkins' first choice, but she describes herself as a problem solver by nature which led her to this department. "I was always looking for a more efficient and effective ways to get things done," Watkins said, "And I continuously found technology to be a key part of the solution." After 15 years in the IT department at UCO, Watkins has worked many different positions including assistant to the vice president, director of special projects, director of technology resources, assistant vice president and now chief information officer. Semore said Watkins is a very humble hard worker who is very approachable, never giving off the vibe that she is better than anyone, even though she is a CIO. "It is certainly an honor to be a recipient of the OKWIT Trailblazer Award," Watkins said. "I am deeply grateful to receive this recognition from my OKWIT peers who also reflect the essence of this award."
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Nov. 13, 2018
Around Campus
Students pet Gus, an Austrailian Shepard that is a registered service animal, at Stress Paws in the Nigh University Center. This is a program that is available to students multiple times throughout the semester. (Serene Russell/The Vista)
Tuesday, Nov. 13, 2018
teach how to handle stress triggered by food.
Lessons in Leadership Speakers - Cyndi Munson, State Representative: Rep. Cyndi Munson, Democratic representative for Oklahoma District 85, will speak from 9:3010:45 a.m. in the Nigh University Center’s Constitution Hall as part of the Lessons in Leadership Speakers series. A UCO alumna, Munson was the first Asian-American woman to be elected to the Oklahoma House of Representatives and just won re-election on Nov. 6. The event is open to the whole campus community.
Movember - In the Moonlight: As part of Men’s Health Awareness Month, the University of Central Oklahoma Peer Health Leaders will host a panel discussion from noon to 1:30 p.m. in the Nigh University Center Cherokee Room.
SPB Build-A-Broncho: Partnering with the University of Central Oklahoma Chambers Library, the Student Programming Board will host their annual Build-A-Broncho event from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Chambers Library. In exchange for a children’s book, students can stuff their own stuffed animal. If students do not have a book to donate, the library will be selling books for $1-3. Smart Recovery: Those in recovery can attend this meeting in Nigh University Center Room 322 from noon to 1 p.m. where they can learn how to achieve and maintain a positive lifestyle. Attendees will learn how to manage thoughts and how to cope with stress. Life Skills Around Eating: This free and confidential group meets from 3:30-4:30 p.m. in Thatcher Hall Room 328. The group will discuss and focus on the affect regulation approach to eating disorders and will
Pho Night: The Asian-American Student Association is hosting its semesterly Pho Night fundraiser from 6:308:30 p.m. at Pho Ben on 304 S. Kelly Ave. A fundraiser for AASA’s major events throughout the semester, the cost for an all-you-can-eat meal is $7 for presale tickets and $10 at the door. The event will also feature free karaoke. Freshman Action Team Thanksgiving Dinner: The Black Student Association’s Freshman Action Team is hosting a Thanksgiving Dinner from 6:30-8 p.m. in the Will Rogers Room of the Nigh University Center. The event will feature food and karaoke, and it is open to students, faculty and staff.
Wednesday, Nov. 14, 2018 Student Ambassador Golf Cart Rides: The University of Central Oklahoma Student Ambassadors are hosting golf cart rides across campus between 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Clocktower. While taking students to their classes, ambassadors will provide UCO facts and will also be accepting donations to raise money for their ambassador program.
First World War Centenary: Sponsored by the University of Central Oklahoma’s Rho Lambda Chapter of the Phi Alpha Theta history honor society, a round table discussion commemorating the centenary since the conclusion of World War I will take place from 1-2 p.m. in Grand Ballroom B in the Nigh University Center. Non-Traditional Student Support Group: This group is designed to help non-traditional students find support at UCO with others students who can relate to your life experience and share resources to help meet personal needs and ensure success at UCO. The meeting is from 2-3 p.m. in Nigh University Center Room 322. . Diabetes Awareness and Cooking Class: For Native American Heritage Month, the Native American Student Association is hosting a discussion on diabetes accompanied by a cooking lesson with healthy recipes from 6-7:30 p.m. in the Will Rogers Room of the Nigh University Center.
Thursday, Nov. 15, 2018 Grief Support Group: The Center for Counseling & Well-Being will host a group for individuals who are experiencing grief. Students are encouraged to attend this group meeting which lasts from 11 a.m. to noon in Nigh University Center Room 322. LGBTQ Support: From 1-2 p.m. in Nigh University Center Room 322, those in the LGBTQ community are encouraged to come to receive support. Meet and talk about various top-
ics around sexuality, gender and other life issues. Civil Rights & Islamophobia: The Muslim Student Association is hosting a presentation on Civil Rights and Islamophobia from 6-9 p.m. in the International House Ballrooms at the University of Central Oklahoma’s International House. The event will feature speakers from the Council on American-Islamic Relations and a local FBI member. Dinner will be provided for attendees at this STLRtagged event. SPBe Healthy: In collaboration with the Food and Nutrition Club, the Student Programming Board will host a cooking lesson and discuss healthy eating options from 6-8 p.m. in the Quad Kitchen.
Friday, Nov. 16, 2018 Trauma Recovery: In Thatcher Hall Room 328 from 2-3 p.m., students can learn how to reduce trauma symptoms by understanding it and increasing coping strategies to manage symptoms. Grief Support Group: Each week the Center for Counseling and Well-Being hosts a grief support group from 11 a.m. to noon in Nigh University Center Room 322. The group discusses the grieving process and resources for those grieving. UCO Chess & Games Club Weekly Meeting: The Chess and Games Club hosts weekly meetings from 2-5 p.m. in Center for Transformative Learning Room 108.
Opioid/Crime
Nov. 13, 2018
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New Law Changes Opioid Prescription Process Katie Standlee @katiestandlee
Managing Editor
Recent opioid law changes reduce the amount of opioid pills physicians are allowed to prescribe and introduced several safeguards to prevent opioid abuse and addiction. Senate Bill 1446 brought this law into effect on Nov. 1 so physicians will only be able to prescribe a week’s worth of opioid drugs. They must also limit the dosage to the lowest effective dose to manage acute pain. Attorney General Mike Hunter said that this legislation is tracked from the seven day recommendation for opioid prescriptions from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. “The goal here is to limit the danger that [is] attache[d] to the prescribing of opioids,” Hunter said. “It is established that about one out of every five people have vulnerability to addiction, whether it is drugs or alcohol.” There were 793 drug related deaths in 2017 in Oklahoma, 210 being from Oklahoma County, with opioids accounting for 379. However, pharmaceutical deaths are on the rise, with 55 percent of last year’s drug related deaths being linked to pharmaceuticals, according to the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs Control. “I think [Senate Bill 1446] is a step in the right direction, but I do have some problems with it,” said Joseph Tripodi, UCO political science professor. “The way I understand it, it puts the burden on physicians on how many pain meds they prescribe to a patient, which just is, I think, a small
step in the right direction.” This legislation also puts safeguards in place that help further prevent opioid abuse in the state. One safeguard mandates that before a patient can renew their prescription, for up to seven or more days, they have to have a documented consultation with the physician. The consultation will allow the physician to evaluate whether or not the patient still needs the prescription and whether or not the prescription presents a risk for abuse or addiction. Mark Woodward, spokesperson for the OBNDD said this piece of legislation has the potential to be very successful, and he thinks this documented consultation between patient and physician will be beneficial to that success. “Limiting the first prescription to seven days and requiring a consultation and documentation for subsequent prescriptions will undoubtedly help save lives by giving the doctor more information prior to prescribing,” Woodward said. The law also requires that for one hour a year, physicians must continue their education in pain management or in opioid abuse and addiction before they renew their license to practice. “I think the medical community is responding in a responsible way with regard to recognizing that there has to be continuing education,” Hunter said. “One hour is certainly a good start and maybe as time goes by we can increase that.” Woodward said more than the safeguards the law provides, he encourages everyone to take their own safeguards in regards to medication.
Outreach and Prevention Specialist Carlie Stout, left, and Marchella Simmons, OU Physicians assistant, promote awareness for opioid disposal on Oct. 26 outside of the Wellness Center. Drug disposal is a major part of the response to the opioid epidemic. (Sami Karbelk/The Vista)
He said to safeguard the pills that are kept at home and to dispose of pills that are no longer needed that can be targeted if they are left behind in a medicine cabinet. The OBNDD has placed 178 drug disposal boxes in police and sheriff lobbies across the state, and there is one available at the University of Central Oklahoma’s Police Department. Locally, the City of Edmond has also joined the fight against opioids
after they voted in October to take action against opioid related claims. Through this, McAfee & Taft and Fulmer Sill Law have recommended the City of Edmond file lawsuits against opioid manufacturers and distributors. According to City of Edmond documents, the agreements with the firms are contingency-based, which means the attorney costs and accompanying expenses would be paid from any lawsuit settlement.
While Still Low, Edmond’s Violent Crime is on the Rise Continued from Pg. 1 aggravated assault, robbery, rape and homicide - only one rate was lower than the national average. While Oklahoma has one of the higher violent crime rates in the country, Edmond has a lower crime rate and is listed as one of the safest cities in the state. Though it's listed as one of the safest cities in the state, based on FBI crime statistics, Edmond has seen its amount of violent crime steadily increase since 2011. In 2011, there were 58 violent crimes reported by the Edmond Police Department, compared to last year's total of 154. This could be due to Edmond's growing population, which from 2011 to 2018, grew by 10,000. Jeffrey Harp, UCO's chief of police, agreed
that the growing population is a factor in the growing crime rate. "Part of it has to be that] it's more of an affluent community," Harp said. "That doesn't mean that rich folks don't commit crimes, but I think that's one piece of it." Comparing Edmond with Lawton, a city with a similar population, the difference between violent crime rates is significant. While the Edmond Police Department reported just over 150 violent crimes, the Lawton Police Department reported 831 incidences. The average median income in an Edmond household is $74,632 compared to Lawton's $43,674, according to Data USA. Another factor Harp referred to is the sense of community within Edmond.
"There's a sense of neighborhood here," Harp said. "There's a sense of community that helps bond things together." Harp said he feels that the community feel is part of what makes UCO a safe university. Last year, the UCO Police Department reported four violent crimes. "I think that universities [have a sense of community] on a larger scale," Harp said. "I think universities in general are probably at a lower crime rate than the towns that are around them." Harp said he feels as though there's a "passive surveillance" that the UCO community helps establish. He said it makes it easy for things to stand out because of this sense of community. "We're all kind of engaged in the
same purpose," Harp said. While UCO and Edmond in general remain one of the safest parts in the state, Oklahoma as a whole remains high in violent crime. Males were the primary offender of violent crimes in Oklahoma, making up about 81 percent. Aggravated assault had the highest rate of occurrence in Oklahoma, happening 319.3 times per 100,00 people, a full 70 points above the national average. Oklahoma hasn’t been below the national average in aggravated assault since the FBI started recording the data in 1995. Most of these incidents happened while the victim was at home and the reported relationship to the offender was unknown the majority of the time.
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Nov. 13, 2018
Parking/Asian Studies
TPS Addresses Lack of Housing Parking Continued from Pg. 1 the concerns [students] have had for a long time... And it is a good thing for us to do.” Students need to have a valid UCO housing parking permit and download the Passport Parking mobile app to use this parking option. They need to fill in the information in the app to reserve their 30-minute parking space. “The time will automatically expire and they need to move,” Stone said. “[Parking there for longer] will result in a citation.” While parking officers do not work on weekends, any policy will be applied again at 7 a.m. on Monday. Stone said it does not cost them anything to run the program. TPS selected nine current parking spots close to the front door of the housing buildings to make it into the shortterm parking lots. They use the same parking app which is currently used for visitor parking lots. “[We are] working on the signage just make sure that it makes sense, but overall it’s good,” Stone said. “We’re [going to] pilot it through the rest of the semester and see what the usage is, and I will make a determination if it’s [going to] become a permanent thing or go away.” TPS and the Office of Housing and Dining announced the program through an email and newsletter. Stone said the student feedback they
The University of Central Oklahoma’s multipermit parking lack open space outside of University of Central Oklahoma’s University Suites. (Tanner Laws/The Vista)
have received is all positive so far and students appreciate this program. However, some students have different opinions on it. “It does not benefit me. I do not think that those new spots are necessary, especially when it’s hard to find enough permanent parking spots already,” said Sunny Weddle, a junior student who started living on campus this semester. “But I also don’t leave and go much of anywhere else throughout the week.” The construction of the new cafeteria on Ayers Street took away 65 parking spots for housing residents. Stone said they were able capture 42 of those back by taking some multipermit slots to mark them for housing.
When many students complain about not having enough parking spots, Stone said it is a misconception. Housing students can still park at the other 12 multipermit parking lots close to the housing complexes. “How parking is allocated is that there is not enough for everybody, but you have the multipermit spaces for everybody. You never have a one to one parking [ratio] but one to two or one to three,” Stone said. “And of course not everyone is here at the same time. If we also count the multipermit for housing students, it’s close to one to one.” TPS also hosts a program called “Open Office with the Director of Parking” every other month to allow
everyone to walk in and talk with Stone about their parking concerns. Stone said no one came to the event in August, but he hopes more people will come to know about it. TPS and the housing office also conduct a survey every year to receive student’s opinions on parking. Stone said they missed the one for last year, but they will establish one this year. To improve the parking and transportation experience for students, Stone said they will work on some project to better maintain the parking lots. He also said they are working to bring scooters to campus and will announce those in the spring semester.
available to both domestic and international students, even though they have a lot of interest in this area,” Dinh said. “Also, the event is a perfect chance to promote the Asian studies minor offered by the College of Liberal Arts.” The conference is being supported and sponsored by STLR. According to Anh, the College of Liberal Arts is also providing support, including panels from professors and students from the English, political science, history and humanities departments. During the planning period, they are also reaching out to student bodies, such as the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, the International Student Council and the Budo Society. They also hope to receive sponsorship from outside organizations such as the Western Pacific Institute and the Korean community in Oklahoma City. Planning for the conference started in the spring 2018 semester. The conference was originally planned to be in September, but was delayed so that
they could be more prepared. “Through this event, I would like to introduce the dynamics of Asian cultures, science and economy to the UCO community,” Dinh said. “One particular ambition of mine is to leave this conference as a legacy in a form of a bi-annual event to broaden Asian studies students’ network.” The keynote speaker will be Peter D. Hershock, director of the Asian Studies Development Program and an education specialist at the EastWest Center in Honolulu. Hershock is involved in the Undergraduate International Foreign Language Studies grant, which also involves Jessica Sheetz-Nguyen from UCO's Department of History. Currently, the conference is calling for papers from students interested in voicing their opinions, which they could present during the conference. The deadline for the abstract is Jan. 31 and the committee, which consists of three senior faculty members, will select the ones that best fit the theme of the conference. The committee will
announce the ones chosen and arrange the individual papers into panels of three, based on a shared idea. Topics are all dependent on what areas the submitted proposals cover. As of now, the coordinators are expecting panels on history, political science and literature. Possible discussion topics include agriculture, business and finance, geography and history, food, literature, languages, philosophy, politics, popular culture, religion, arts, sciences, traditional medicine and more. Zoie Hing, president of the Asian American Student Association, said she is pleased to find out that other people outside from the student organization are just as eager to educate the public on various aspects of Asian culture. “I love that students are also able to be part of the conference by submitting papers to share their own ideas and develop new points of view on topics that may have not been discussed before,” Hing said.
Asian Studies Conference Coming to UCO 2019 Yi Wen Wong @TheVista1903 Reporter
The University of Central Oklahoma's College of Liberal Arts will be hosting an Asian Studies Conference and Festival on April 5, 2019, in the College of Business to share the past, present and future of Asia in the context of globalization and multiculturalism. The idea of the conference came from Anh Dinh, an international student from Vietnam majoring in English education. She said the purpose of the event is to connect the UCO community with the academic and festive aspects of Asian studies. Dinh is the the conference coordinator, and makes logistic arrangements, seeks support from faculty members and promotes the event. She is working with co-coordinator Thanh Huynh, another international student and senior English education major. “I feel there is a lack of resources
Festival
Nov. 13, 2018
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UCO’s International Festival Opens Free to Community Continued from Pg. 1 about international cultures, and who doesn’t love a free festival to go to on a weekend?” The event, which is one of the largest international cultural events in the state, previously cost community members $5 to attend. The event features food, cultural performances and other activities from the 14 country associations that are active on campus. More than 16 booths will be present at the event, representing diverse cultures such as Japan, Iran, Vietnam, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, Africa and Latin America. For the first time, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Student Association will also be in attendance, as well as Oklahoma Christian University. “UCO is doing something that the city of Edmond does not even offer,” said Minbo Sim, president of UCO's Korean Student Association. “Even though there are 14 different country associations, I always realize we are becoming one body as we prepare [for] the event.” Cultural events will include musical
The University of Central Oklahoma’s Korean Student Association serves food to attendees alongside a cultural art display at the 2017 International Festival. This year’s festival will feature 16 booths representing 14 country associations and others, along with cultural performances and other activities. (Provided/International Student Council)
performances and displays of cultural significant activities, such as a dance celebrating Mt. Kinabalu in Malaysia from the Malaysian Student Association and a chopstick ball game from the Vietnamese Student Association. As part of the festival, each booth will also be judged on their decorations, performance and food. Judges will consist of faculty and staff from across UCO’s colleges, although a
people’s choice award is also given out as part of the judging. “If you’re the winner, that’s good for your country association because you can get more funding as an association if you develop well and project for the next semesters,” said Ligia Espinoza, ISC’s graphic designer and festival committee member. “That counts a lot in the ISC.” Each booth is sponsored by the ISC with $900 for the event, with the entirety of the festival costing approximately $20,000. With a budget of around $50,000 for the academic year, Goh said that the event is the single biggest expense faced by the ISC each year. Recently, ISC has petitioned the UCO Student Association for additional funding to help support events such as the International Festival and those put on by country associations. With 14 country associations relying on them for funding, Goh said the financial situation within the ISC is significantly different compared to other organizations on campus. “Costing as much as it does, the International Festival takes the majority of our funding while we still have so many events left to plan, such as our international pageant, graduation celebrations and other major events,” Goh said. “So, yeah, we need more money.” Support has also come from the Edmond community, with Mayor Charles Lamb donating $1,500 to the event. With Edmond’s vision statement including a commitment to diversity and innovation, Lamb said working with events such as the International Festival is the perfect way to add a global perspective. “The UCO international student population and the festival provides a wonderful opportunity for cultural interaction with the Edmond population on a regular basis, thus further
advancing Edmond's understanding of the larger world outside of Oklahoma,” Lamb said. Each year the event attracts around 2,000 attendees, including UCO students and community members. With the interaction between ISC and the UCO Conservative Instagram account over the huge variety of global cultural events on campus being racist for not including a dedicated Caucasian celebration, Goh said the event comes at a great time to educate the community on the value of diversity. “The fact that people are even willing to come means they’re open to learning about different cultures that are completely different from theirs, and I think for that it is really cool that we are able to share what we have at UCO,” Goh said. The event, a component of the Office of Global Affairs community outreach programs, is as much a celebration of culture as it is an educational opportunity, according to Jared Scism, assistant director of the International House and Programming. Other events include the Community Responding to International Students Program, the Global Leadership Ambassador Program and the Broncho Buddies Program, all of which Scism also oversees and are highly active within the Edmond community. “I am very proud and honored I get to lead this event every year that serves as a tool to help others in our state to be aware of the diversity represented here,” Scism said. “The festival also helps others become more globally and culturally aware of things in person rather than perceptions they might form from the media.” Taking place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Nov. 17, the 43rd Annual International Festival will be held at Edmond’s Festival Market Place.
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Nov. 13, 2018
ACM@UCO
ACM@UCO Showcases Contemporary Artists
Top Left: Singer-songwriter Molly Burch (left) headlines a show along side guitarist Dailey Toliver on Nov. 7 at the ACM@UCO Performance Lab, 329 E. Sheridan Ave., in Bricktown. (Tanner Laws/The Vista)
Middle Right: Guitarist Dailey Toliver plays for the Austin Texas based band Molly Burch on Nov. 7 at the ACM@UCO Performance Lab, 329 E. Sheridan Ave., in Bricktown. (Tanner Laws/The Vista)
Top Right: Gilson Machtolff, guitarist for the band Magic Munchbox, perform on Nov. 1 at the ACM@UCO Performance Lab, 329 E. Sheridan Ave., in Bricktown. (Tanner Laws/The Vista)
Bottom Left: Drummer Chris Hainey plays drums for Maps & Atlases, a Chicago-based experimental inde rock band on Nov. 1 at the ACM@UCO Performance Lab, 329 E. Sheridan Ave., in Bricktown. (Tanner Laws/The Vista)
Middle Left: Bassist Michael Vaughan props his foot on an amp while playing for the band Magic Munchbox on Nov. 1 at the ACM@UCO Performance Lab, 329 E. Sheridan Ave., in Bricktown. (Tanner Laws/The Vista)
Bottom Right: Dailey Toliver (left), session player (middle) and Molly Burch (right) perform for their band Molly Burch on Nov. 7 at the ACM@UCO Performance Lab, 329 E. Sheridan Ave., in Bricktown. (Tanner Laws/The Vista)
Letters to the Editor
Nov. 13, 2018
Your Words, Your Voice. Letter to the Editor To the Editor, I would like to respond to the Oct. 30 “Letter to the Editor” that was written in response to the front page article from the previous week regarding “Reverse Racism.” I am a graduate student with an undergraduate degree in education from the University of Central Oklahoma. I received that degree in 1996 during a teaching surplus when UCO was known as a “teacher college,” not a “multicultural university.” There was no “Office of Diversity & Inclusion” at that time. Diversity was “diversity of thought,” not diversity of skin color or ethnicity. During that time in American history, colleges and universities were known for that kind of diversity - openness to another’s point of view. Now I read this letter to the editor and the article about UCOSA discussing student representation. I am white. I am a woman. I am smart and I work hard. One day while sitting in the computer lab at this institute of “higher education,” I sat next to a student writing an essay entitled “How to cross the Boarder.” Yes, that is how it was written. Now, UCOSA wants to advocate for non-Western cultural classes and would like to lower the GPA from 3.0 to 2.5 for those wanting to be UCOSA President. There is a reason it’s called “higher education.” The letter to the editor mentions that activist Janaya Khan has said, “Privilege isn’t about what you’ve gone through, it’s about what you haven’t had to go through.” What exactly does that mean? Does that mean because your skin is of a certain color that you have had no adversity? Does that mean that because you are white, you are not hired for a job in the name of “diversity”? Does that mean because you are a college president that you can violate the 2nd Amendment rights of an individual to defend themselves? Does that mean that the rights of American citizens can be violated by those wanting to enter the United States illegally? Or does that mean that because I am white, that you automatically assume “privilege.” I am an American woman. The “cultural” classes that need to be taught on this campus are what it means to be an American. A reverence for our flag. A reverence for those who have fought and died for our freedoms, including my 1st Amendment right to write this letter to defend my “whiteness.” I have experienced a tremendous amount of adversity in my life. Adversity builds character. Welcome to Oklahoma. In our land, the women know how to drive a stick shift, pack a Kimber 1911 on their hip, work hard, respect the Constitution of the United States of America and have no qualms about telling a man if he’s acting like a son-of-a-bitch. How about a cultural class such as that? Kimberly Willis, graduate student
Your Words, Your Voice. Letter to the Editor To the Editor, In addressing the VISTA’s “Unofficial UCO Group Calls Reverse Racism” article on Tuesday, Oct. 23, 2018, it is amazing that an individual can accuse UCO of being “extremely biased . . . when it comes to politics and race because it lacks a regular event celebrating Caucasian culture.” Overall, it was a good story with both sides expressing their beliefs; yet, I was inadvertently attracted to four words used in this article–Republican, biased, politics and race–which evoked dread and fear: Dread that in today’s political climate, words repetitively used with negative connotative meaning such as Republican, biased, politics and race are some powerful, influential tools used that come to symbolize the Republican banner that defies the U. S. Constitution, its civil liberties, and encroachment of individual rights, freedoms. The pervasive propaganda rhetoric that pits us against each other, divides our families, communities, nation, tests our morals, beliefs, principles and values, and what this country stands for to us personally as well as what our nation stands for with our international neighbors. Fear, momentarily, that articles like this could filter down from our highest government to infiltrate, insinuate themselves into our UCO community to breed bigotry, hatred and hurt. Being an ethnic minority, I know that Caucasian means white. White means all European descent or elsewhere; thus, Caucasian does not mean a person of color. In this political climate, there is the fear of being persecuted by white Republicans for being an ethnic minority, being LGBT+, being female, being poor or just being yourself and different from the white majority in this nation. At this current rate in the political arena, news,and media, Republican and Caucasian do not symbolize equality, justice, and freedom. As it is, Politics in our highest government plays a dominant, huge role with rhetoric, propaganda that, also, encourages, promotes inequality, division, hatred; and, to even use the word “race” defines separation, segregation. The University of Central Oklahoma and its differing cultural activities and events offer insight, education, camaraderie, that all advocates, supports and fosters tolerance, knowledge, understanding and respect. It is excessive to reiterate “. . . a Caucasian festival . . . “ since the Caucasian/ white is the dominant group in our country and is not categorized as a minority ethnicity. Since white is dominant, we live in its mainstream culture, society every day and ethnic minorities do not have the courtesy of experiencing ‘white privilege.’ To decry “reverse racism” goes beyond being a Republican and represents racism, discrimination. It is like saying, “Everything belongs to me. What you have belongs to me and only me”; be it jobs, respect, religion, marriage, etc. This belief, attitude is labeled ‘white supremacy.’ In our nation, it is acceptable to wear a Donald Trump hat in the classroom, but etiquette requires that you take it off once your Instructor starts speaking, take it off at the dinner table, take it off in church, take it off when speaking respectfully to others, etc. Besides, according to Anonymous in the article, the Donald Trump hat symbolized his support for him and his administration and it does not necessarily represent the Republican Party. Yyyaaayyy. Anonymous
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Nov. 13, 2018
Sting
SPORTS
Hornets Sting Bronchos in Home Finale
University of Central Oklahoma quarterback Will Collins looks down field during a Nov. 10 home game against Emporia State University. Collins threw for 265 yards and two touchdowns while also running for 138 yards. (Gerald Leong/The Vista)
Jonathan Goudeau @Goudeau_jdg Sports Editor
Three turnovers and a failed comeback attempt cost the University of Central Oklahoma in a 35-28 loss to Emporia State University on senior day. “We turned the ball over and they didn’t, and you just can’t win when you do that,” said head coach Nick Bobeck. “Part of our plan for success is ball control and we had done such a good job of that up to this point, but we didn’t do a good job today and that’s why we lost the game.” The Bronchos had two fumbles all season, but fumbled three times in the game. The first came on a fumbled handoff after a 17-play eight-minute opening drive. The second came on a punt return and the third came on a strip by a Hornets defensive back. “I think we played really hard and were good enough to win,” Bobeck said. “You can’t turn the ball over.” Senior running back Clay McKenzie led the offense in his final game at Wantland Stadium. He finished with 105 yards rushing and two touchdowns on 28 carries, and had a 7-yard touchdown reception. His 112 all-purpose yards pushed him over 4,000 yards for his career, making him just the fourth player in program
history to do so. Quarterback Will Collins was also a key part of the offense, throwing for 265 yards and two touchdowns while adding a career-high 138 rushing yards on 24 carries. He threw one interception. “[Collins] extended some plays and did a good job with that,” Bobeck said. “He threw some good footballs in some tough situations. He’s got some growing to do, but I’m really proud of him and for what he’s done.” Starting wide receivers Dustin Basks and Johnny Bizzell went down with early injuries, opening the door for senior Ronald Turner Jr. He turned in his best performance of the season, leading with a game-high nine catches for 81 yards. “Ronnie is a good football player,” Bobeck said. “He hasn’t had as good a year as we thought he was going to have, but you talk about an unbelievable character kid. I can’t say enough good things about him.” The offense posted 525 yards. It’s the second straight game with more than 500 and the fifth time in the last six games with more than 400 yards of offense. Defensively, senior linebacker Colton Lindsey led the way with nine tackles, a forced fumble and one sack. Safety O’Shay Harris finished
with eight tackles, and linebacker Chris Pogi added six tackles and a sack. Senior defensive end Noble Lybrand also registered a sack. The Bronchos started quickly, but came away empty as Collins fumbled the handoff to McKenzie at the 1-yard line. The Hornets quickly capitalized on it going 90 yards, ending with a 23-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Braxton Marstall to running back Denzel Strong, making it a 7-0 lead in the middle of the first quarter. On the second play of the second quarter, Collins rolled to his right and found McKenzie in the corner of the end zone for a 7-yard touchdown, tying it at 7-7. After a stop, McKenzie found the end zone again from 6-yards out, making it 14-7 in the middle of the second quarter. The Hornets forced another turnover when their punt bounced off a Broncho player and was recovered by Emporia at the UCO 19-yard line. Three plays later, Marstall found wide receiver Jordan Reed for an 11-yard touchdown to tie it at 14-14. On the ensuing drive, the Bronchos turned it over again as Turner Jr. was stripped by Hornets defensive back Trey Morris and was recovered at the UCO 47-yard line. However, the defense held, forcing a 33-yard field goal, missed by
kicker Sam Dobbins. Kicker Alex Quevedo missed a 25-yard field goal wide left to keep it 14-14 at the half. Emporia opened the second half with a three play 75-yard scoring drive as Marstall found Harris for a 43-yard touchdown, making it 21-7 51 seconds in. UCO responded on the next drive as McKenzie punched it in from 1-yard out on fourth and inches to tie it at 21-21 in the middle of the third quarter. Emporia broke the deadlock in the fourth quarter when running back Landon Nault ran it in from 7-yards, taking a 28-21 lead with 4:39 left. The Bronchos got as far as their own 47-yard line before Collins overthrown pass to Turner was intercepted and returned to the UCO 46-yard line. On the next play, Marstall broke free and ran 46 yards for a touchdown with 1:18 left. UCO responded as Collins found Ronald Monroe with eight seconds left to make it 3528, but Emporia recovered the ensuing onside kick, sealing their 35-28 win. The 7-4 Bronchos face Angelo State University in the C.H.A.M.P.S. Heart of Texas Bowl on Dec. 1 at Waco ISD Stadium in Waco, Texas.
Kicks
Nov. 13, 2018
13
Soccer Kicks Into Third Round
University of Central Oklahoma forward Katie Killion dribbles during a Nov. 11 home game against Minnesota State University. Killion scored two goals in the 3-1 win, helping the Bronchos advance to the third round of the NCAA tournament. (Tanner Laws/The Vista)
Derek Parker @D_Park2
Sports Reporter
The University of Central Oklahoma women’s soccer team defeated the Minnesota State University Mavericks 3-1 in Edmond on Sunday in the second round of the NCAA Division II Central Regional. The Bronchos advanced to 22-1 on the season, and the third round of the tournament. This win marks the Bronchos sixth straight win since their only loss of the season to Northeastern State University on Oct. 26. It also set an alltime record for wins in a season. The Bronchos started by scoring a goal in the second minute. Asha Haile assisted Kelsi Eason, who scored from the top of the box. Senior Katie Killion scored her first goal of the day by beating a Maverick down the right side of the box and getting it past the goalie to put the Bronchos up 2-0. In the 33rd minute, MSU scored their lone goal on a shot by Dakota Wendell, assisted by Bri Ciaccio to cut the Bronchos lead to one. UCO finished with 15 shots, with seven of those coming on goal. MSU finished with 18 shots overall, with six coming on goal. After halftime the teams took turns trading shots, with both goalies making defensive stands. In the 84th minute, Central scored their final goal of the day, on a sec-
ond goal by Killion, assisted by Haley Post. Killion’s second goal of the day was her 29th on the season, making her first in the NCAA Division II. Killion finished the day with six shots, with three on target and two goals. Eason shot three times, with two on goal and one score. Freshman Kelsi Gibson played all 90 minutes, allowing one goal and making five saves. Gibson now has 16 wins on the season at goalie. “I’m proud of our girls for battling
today,” said head coach Mike Cook. “It was a cold one and they came out and fought hard.” The win on Sunday moved UCO to 22-1. “They played good together and did what they needed to get the win,”Cook said. “They never gave up and that is what I pride them on.” Grand Valley State University is the top seed in the Midwest Regional, and will host both the third and fourth rounds of the NCAA
tournament. Grand Valley will play 3rd-seeded Ferris State University. If the Bronchos win their next match, they will see the winner of Grand Valley and Ferris State on Sunday, Nov. 18. In the third round of the NCAA tournament, the Bronchos will take on University of Central Missouri in Grand Valley, Michigan on Nov. 16. UCO has played Central Missouri twice, and beaten them 2-0 earlier in the season, and 6-1 on Nov. 4.
University of Central Oklahoma soccer players celebrate after their 3-1 win over Minnesota State University on Nov. 11. The Bronchos travel to Allendale, Mich. to take on conference foe University of Central Missouri in the third round of the NCAA tournament. (Tanner Laws/The Vista)
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Nov. 13, 2018
Freeze
Ichabods Freeze Volleyball in Loss
University of Central Oklahoma outside hitter Taylor Bevis goes up for a kill during a Nov. 9 match against Washburn University in Kearney, Neb. The Bronchos fell 3-1 ending their season. (Provided/BronchoSports)
Devynn Base
@TheVista1903 Contributing Writer
The 16-ranked University of Central Oklahoma volleyball team ended their season on Friday with a 27-7 record when they lost to 10-ranked Washburn University in the semifinals of the Mid-America
Intercollegiate Athletics Association Tournament. The Bronchos beat Lindenwood University at home in a 3-0 match on Nov. 6 for the first round of the MIAA tournament to advance to the semifinals. It was their 22nd sweep of the season at 25-23, 25-19 and 25-20. The semifinal match ended 3-1
The University of Central Oklahoma volleyball team breaks a huddle during a match this season. They finished with a 22-7 record. (Provided/BronchoSports).
with the Bronchos gaining the lead in the first set at 25-23 before falling behind and losing the next three 2518, 25-19 and 25-13. “It’s a tough way to end the season, but I’m proud of this team,” said head coach Edgar Miraku. “They fought hard all year and we really had a good season.” Haley Deschenes led the Bronchos with 11 kills for the match, with Karyn Chrisman and Taylor Bevis had 10 kills each. Chrisman and Bevis each had one block for the match. Malia Kaaiohelo contributed eight kills and three blocks. McKenzie Fyfe had 24 assists and 10 digs, with Dominique Lipari adding 24 digs. “It’s sad that the season ended how it did, but I wouldn’t change it,” Chrisman said. “We grew together, learned together and had one heck of a season.” The first set was close as the Bronchos worked to gain the 20-17 lead before the Ichabods turned it around and got ahead 23-20. UCO came back and tied it 23-all before gaining the lead and coming out on top at 25-23. Deschenes, Chrisman and Kaaiohelo each had four kills in this set. The Bronchos got ahead early in the second set leading 6-2 before the Ichabods answered with five points in a row to gain a 7-6 lead. UCO never regained the lead and Washburn ended the set 25-18. UCO started off the third set with
an early lead 6-5 before Washburn tied it up 7-7 and then took the lead. The Bronchos could not come back
“It’s a tough way to end the season, but I’m proud of this team. They fought hard all year and we had a really good season” Edgar Miraku and the set ended 25-19. The last set of the match started with the Bronchos not far behind at 8-6 but, they committed seven errors in a Washburn 12-1 run that made it a close 25-20 finish. This was the last match for the four Broncho seniors: Bevis, Chrisman, Fyfe and Jordan Spence. UCO has qualified for the MIAA tournament all six years since they joined the league in 2012. They have made the semifinals in five of those six years.
Hot Start/Streak
Nov. 13, 2018
15
Men’s Hot Streak Powers Undefeated Start James Jackson
@JamesDJackson15 Sports Reporter
The University of Central Oklahoma’s mens basketball team began their 2018-2019 season undefeated as they beat Northwestern Oklahoma State University 88-80 Friday and Southwestern Oklahoma State University, 114-82 Saturday afternoon. “I’m proud of the guys today and happy with the outcome,” said head coach Tom Hankins. “It was good to get two wins under the belt on the road and I’m glad that we fought hard and executed.” Senior Josh Holliday led the Bronchos through both games as he scored 27 points on 9-12 shooting against NWOSU, and 28 points on 10-16 shooting against SWOSU. “I’m really proud of Josh for starting his senior season well. It’s good to have leaders like him,”Hankins said. “He is such a talented kid and when he gets it going, you see he’s capable of some pretty good things.” In UCO’s first game of the season, the Bronchos led NWOSU by 14 points in the first half as UCO shot 46.3 percent from the floor and 45
University of Central Oklahoma guard Josh Holliday looks to pass during a home game against Northeastern State University last season. He led the Bronchos with 55 points in the two wins. (Provided/BronchoSports)
percent from behind the arc. The Bronchos had five players in double figures along with Holliday, Marquis Johnson recorded 16 points, Jordan Hemphill added 15 with a team-high nine rebounds, Adarius Avery had 12 and Ashford Golden submitted 10. It was the Bronchos 12th straight season opening with a win. Their fourth straight under Hankins. “I’m proud of the guys for their effort today,” Hankins said. “The first
game is always iffy because we haven’t really practiced that much. But the team came out and fought hard early and got a good win.” In their matchup with SWOSU, the Bronchos battled to an 11-8 lead and went on a 12-0 run. UCO finished the first half with 64 points while only giving up 34 to the Bulldogs. In the second half, the two teams were only separated by two points as the Bronchos scored 50 to SWOSU’s 48.
The Bronchos had four players in double figures. Johnson led the team in assists with six, right behind him was Jordan London with five. UCO will travel to 10th-ranked Southern Nazarene University on Thursday at 7 p.m. for their third consecutive road game to start the season. Their first home will be against Southwestern Christian University on Nov. 17.
Wrestling Extends Win Streak To Eight Ethan Hummingbird @TheVista1903 Reporter
The University of Central Oklahoma wrestling team extended an eight-match win streak with a 34-6 win over Oklahoma City Universi-
ty at Hamilton Field House in the home opener on Sunday. “We felt confident in our guys with the way we’ve been practicing and the thing I was most happy about was our effort,” head coach Todd Steidley said. “We’re really preaching to our guys to continue
scoring points and our guys are buying into that philosophy. It’s fun to see. I’m proud of where we ended up, but we’ve got a lot of work to do.” The Bronchos got falls from Wyatt Jordan and Colton Looper during the eight-match streak that began after UCO dropped the first match of the dual at 125. Jordan’s pin came at the 4:13 mark at 165, while Looper got his at the 3:28 mark at 197. UCO got three major decisions from Rio Zamora at 133, Brik Filippo 149 and Tracy Reeder 157, with Heath Gray rolling to a technical fall at 184. Zamora erased OCU’s early 3-0 lead after scoring eight points in the final two periods and getting the 8-0 major decision, putting the Bronchos up 4-3. Nate Keim followed up with a second period reverse and a third period escape on his way to a 5-2 win at 141. Filippo got a 13-3 win at 149 with five takedowns. Reeder took an early 9-0 lead before getting the 13-4 major decision. Jordan turned Matt Landgraff
to break a scoreless tie in the second period and secure UCO’s first fall at 165. Miguel Barrerras came up with five clutch takedowns in the final 45 seconds of his match to come out with the 3-1 victory at 174. Gray got the next win for the Bronchos, getting three takedowns and three near-falls before ending the match midway through the second period with a 17-1 technical fall. The eight-game streak concluded with a Looper fall at 197 in the senior’s first match of the season. He built a 13-4 lead before pinning Easton Rendleman at 4:13, giving UCO the 34-3 lead. The final match of the day was a heavyweight match won by the Stars’ Korey Walker. UCO’s Blake Berryhill gave the two-time NAIA All-American a tough match, losing to Waker 5-3 in overtime. UCO will be traveling to Kearney, Nebraska on Nov. 17 to participate in the Nebraska-Kearney Open.
University of Central Oklahoma wrestler Colton Loopwe goes for a takedown during a match last season. He recorded one fall in the Bronchos win over Oklahoma City University. (Provided/BronchoSports)