The Vista September 3, 2019

the

Volume 117, Issue 3

VISTA “Our Words, Your Voice.”

vistanews1903 @thevista1903 @thevista1903 The Vista ucentralmedia.com Tuesday, September 3, 2019

Farewell to Kevin the Greyt

SPORTS

All 2000s Football Team See Pg. 13

AROUND CAMPUS

UCO therapy dog Kevin the Greyt and his handler Alex Russell at Kevin’s going away event on Aug. 29. (JaNae Williams/The Vista)

Medieval Hosts Promo Event NATIONAL

See Pg. 7

UCO honored therapy dog Kevin the Greyt and his handler Alex Russell with a farewell reception on Aug. 28. Students took selfies with Kevin and Alex, enjoyed refreshments and had a chance to say goodbye before the duo move to Charleston, South Carolina. Kevin is a retired racing

Greyhound who began working as a therapy dog on campus in 2017.

Russell accepted a position as the coordinator of prevention education initiatives and student support at the College of Charleston. The pair are responsible for the launch of the campus therapy dog program

UCO Launches First Major to Include Sexuality Studies in Oklahoma

Broncho Barkers, which will continue on with the help of remaining UCO therapy dog, Sadie. The Stress Paws program will also continue on campus every Thursday from 3-5 p.m. on the fourth floor of the Nigh University Center.

Constitutional Carry Could Cause Calamity Jeff Elkins @JeffElkins12

MANAGING EDITOR

U.S. China Trade War

“We’re pioneering this. This is something that we can be proud of that we’ve done; a contribution to diversity and inclusion,” said Lindsey Churchill, the program’s creator and director.

UCO has had a minor in Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies

“Constitutional carry” is a relaxation of common sense to safeguard the Second Amendment from anything that could possibly be perceived as infringement.

House Bill 2597, also known as “constitutional carry” or “permitless carry” was signed into law by Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt on Feb. 27 and is set to go into effect on Nov. 1.

The legislation will allow any person who is at least 21 and legally owns a firearm to carry openly or concealed with no permit necessary. That means there will be people walking around carrying a gun with no training.

There are limits to all of our rights as United States citizens. For example, the First Amendment is our right to free speech. In 1919, Supreme Court

Continued on Pg. 7

Continued on Pg. 9

See Pg. 12

PHOTO STORY

Adults and children march in the Oklahoma pride parade on June 22. (JaNae Williams/The Vista)

JaNae Williams @janaebwilliams REPORTER

Backstreet Boys Are Back!

See Pg. 10

Students at the University of Central Oklahoma can declare the first Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies major at an Oklahoma institution as of the fall 2019 semester.

2

the

September 3, 2019

Contents

VISTA

Content

UCOSA........................................................................................3 Around Campus...........................................................................4 Campus Chat...............................................................................5 Smoking.......................................................................................6 New Major/Medieval...................................................................7 Permitless Carry...........................................................................9 Backstreet Boys.........................................................................10 Games Page...............................................................................11 Trade War....................................................................................12 Dustin Basks Feature.................................................................14 Bucking Broncho........................................................................15

Staff

James D. Jackson Jeff Elkins Derek Parker Tanner Laws Megan Thele Lauren Morris Michelle Pennza Christian Tabak JaNae Williams Haley Humphrey Bryce McKinnis Gerald Wing Yi Leong Samantha Karbelk Teddy Burch

Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor Sports Editor Photo Editor Copy Editor Online Editor Design Editor Senior Reporter Reporter Reporter Sports Reporter Photography Photography Adviser

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.

Advertise with us!

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

On the Cover:

Top: UCO Bronchos control the ball in a game against Washburn University. (Vista Archives) Top Middle: Medieval Society presents a table of creations from UCO students.

(Tanner Laws/The Vista) Bottom Middle: Chinese investors monitor stock prices at a brokerage house in Beijing, Friday, Aug. 30, 2019. (AP Photo/ Mark Schiefelbein)

Lightening strikes north of the University of Central Oklahoma campus as a storm approached campus from Logan County on Aug. 26. (Megan Thele/The Vista)

Bottom: Nick Carter, a member of the Backstreet Boys, performs on stage during the Backstreet Boys DNA World Tour on Aug. 28 at the BOK Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma. (Tanner Laws/The Vista)

UCOSA

September 3, 2019

3

UCOSA Kicks Off with Fresh Approach Lauren Morris @TheVista1903 ONLINE EDITOR

Monday was the first official meeting of the University of Central Oklahoma Student Association, with opening remarks from President Patti Neuhold-Ravikumar.

“You are a bright spot in my day,” Neuhold-Ravikumar told the students. “It has been such a joy to walk the sidewalk this past week, and to just be flooded with smiles and the energy of the excitement of having all of you back on campus.”

UCOSA President Emily Grim also gave her first remarks in office.

“I am so proud and so excited for everybody for stepping up and being the one to be accountable and be representative for all of your fellow students,” Grim said. “It’s definitely something that you don’t take lightly.”

Grim, Vice President Christian Coleman, Chair of Congress James Limbaugh, Vice Chair Emily Sawyer and Secretary Dillon Rasberry were all sworn into their positions, along with all of the senators.

This semester marks the first semester that the senators in Congress

University of Central Oklahoma Student Association representatives are sworn in at the first offical meeting of UCOSA on Aug. 27. From left, stands Secretary Dillon Rasberry, Vice Chair Emma Sawyer, Chair of Congress James Limbaugh, faculty advisor Cole Stanley and UCOSA President Emily Grim. (Tanner Laws/The Vista)

were elected. An online survey of senator candidates determined who was sworn into the role this year. Previously, senators would sign up on a first come, first serve basis.

Out of the 84 students that applied to be a senator, 38 got elected and

sworn in.

In her remarks, Neuhold-Ravikumar talked to the senators about the responsibility they hold in their positions.

“There are some people out there that think you’re a pretty good person to represent them,” Neuhold-Ravikumar said. “That means they believe that you’re the right person to share power with… What you do here today will impact everyone around you, it will impact the people to come here after you and it will impact me, as president, as long as I’m here.”

Due to the senators being elected, each senator will have a constituency they are responsible for reaching out to.

“Understand their problems, what they go through every day and how UCOSA can help them in any way Chair of Congress James Limbaugh gives his advice to the newly sworn in senators. (Tanner Laws/The Vista)

possible,” Limbaugh said. “Every single one of you has the opportunity to do the right thing and change this campus.”

Limbaugh told the congress members it was not enough to “have the doors open to anyone.”

“It’s not enough to just let anyone come into our meetings,” Limbaugh said. “We have to go out, on campus, and seek them out… Some people don’t know there’s a student government that can help them. It’s our responsibility.”

No bills were brought to the floor or passed during the meeting.

Wednesday, Aug. 28, senators will break up and be assigned among seven committees.

UCOSA meets at 4 p.m. every Monday in the Will Rogers Room (421) of the Nigh University Center. Meetings are open to anyone who wishes to attend. Upcoming events can be found on their OrgCentral page.

4

September 3, 2019

Around Campus

Mike Hill and Christian Wiler, two UCO student, play the drums after marching band practice. (Tanner Laws/The Vista)

Tuesday, September 3, 2019 Michael Geib and Friends at the Jazz Lab: At 7:30 p.m., Michael Geib and Friends tribute jazz composer and bandleader Charles Mingus at the UCO Jazz Lab, 100 E. Fifth St. in Edmond. For tickets, visit centralconnection.org/facs.

Pre-Med and Health Professions Club Back to School Bash: From 12-1 p.m. in the Howell Hall Atrium, the Pre-Med and Health Professions Club event will feature free food, as well as a speaker from the University of Oklahoma Medical School.

Wednesday, September 4, 2019 Wildlife Society Meeting: From 12-1 p.m. in Howell Hall Room 158, the Wildlife Society will cover multiple topics including volunteer and internship opportunities, as well as Oklahoma wildlife events.

Pasaporte al Mundo Latino Wednesday Lecture Series:

From 12-1:15 p.m. in the Liberal Arts South Lecture Hall, students can gain STLR Global & Cultural Competency credits for attending these guest speaker events that are focused on the Spanish-speaking world.

Central Improv Practice: From 1-3 p.m. in Nigh University Center Room 211, Central Improv will further develop their craft as a team. Central Improv practices every Wednesday.

Game of Thrones Roundtable: The Philosophy Club and Medieval Society will host a roundtable discussion on the themes and historical accuracy in Game of Thrones from 3:30-5 p.m. in Liberal Arts Room 101. Discussion will cover what the creators got right and wrong, as well as themes throughout the series with roots in philosophy.

Homecoming Giveback Night at Hideaway Pizza: Homecoming Activities Board is hosting a giveback night at the Edmond Hideaway Pizza location to help raise money for their 2019 philanthropy, Palomar, from 4-9:30

p.m. Anyone participating in the giveback must mention Homecoming to their server.

Thursday, September 6, 2019 Contraception and Consent: From 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Broncho Lake, this program will have collaborators from OU Physicians and the UCO Public Health Program educating on consent, condoms, STIs and contraceptives.

2019-2020 Student Organization Registration Training: From 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in Nigh University Center Room 201, organizations needing to become active for the academic year must attend this training event in order for their organization to be activated.

Edmond Jazz Orchestra at the Jazz Lab: At 7:30 p.m, the 20-piece big band comprised of mostly UCO students, professors and graduates will perform music that represents the past, present and future of jazz music.

Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets are

available for $5 as a student or $20 as an adult online or by phone at 9742100. supSPORTing Football Tailgate: From 5-7 p.m., the Student Pogramming Board will be hosting a tailgate in Wantland Stadium parking lot 53. There will be free walking tacos, games, face paint and a photo booth for attendees.

UCO vs. Pittsburg State Football Game: At 7 p.m. in Wantland Stadium, Broncho football will host Pittsburg State University for their season opener. Tickets are available at Bronchosports.com or are free with a valid student ID.

Monday, September 9, 2019 Tunes at Noon - 1st Klass: In the Student Programming Board’s first Tunes at Noon of the semester, 1st Klass will be performing from 12-1:30 p.m. in the Nigh University Center Food Court. The duo from Barbados is known for their laid back pop music with tropical vibes. Free snacks will be available for attendees.

Campus Chat

5

September 3, 2019

Opinions From UCO Students

Is cheesecake a cake or pie?

Beverly Coon (Lecturer in the Department of Sociology): “Pie. Because there’s no flour. I make them all the time. There’s a crust; there’s no flour.”

Jerry Green, Ph.D. (Assistant Professor in the Department of Humanities and Philosophy): “Cheesecake is a pie [because of] the crust. That’s it.

A pie is crusted. Cake is like one texture in principle, a cheesecake has to be two separate things. A cake can be one uniformed thing. Cheesecake is a thing on a crust and that’s what a pie is … like you can have [a] chocolate cake and it is one uniformed foamy substance. Matter and form both matter.”

Zoe Wright (Senior - Creative Writing): “I’ve never had to think about this before ...because of the name I want to say cake, but with the way that you make it, it really is a pie.”

Sara Kyle (Associate Professor in the Department of Humanities and Philosophy): “Cake, because pies have crust that go up the side and often times have crust over the top too.

It’s a form issue.”

Brian Moore (senior - Public Administration): “After serious introspection, I have decided that cheesecake is indeed a cake because cake is in the name.”

Camissa Cox (sophomore - Elementary Ed with Special Education): “I think cheesecake is a pie because it’s in a a little dish, and you don’t just bake it.”

Devin Thornton (“I dont go to school here. I’m here starting a new student organization Phi Delta Theta.”): I’m going to say cheesecake is a cake. I mean, it might have some similarities to pie, but at the end of the day, cake is in the name. So, how could I undermine this cake-ness? It’s 50% of the name, so I’m going with it.”

Mark Silcox (professor/chair of the Department of Humanities and Philosophy): “Yeah, it’s a pie. Because it has a bottom crust. What’s essential to pies is they have either a top and a bottom or at least a bottom containing some substance that’s not baked...well you bake cheesecakes, don’t you? You put them in the oven, they don’t really...I don’t think you have to. There’s unbaked [cheesecakes], they’re just made out of cold cheese. Those are the same type of things as the ones that are baked, so yeah it’s definitely a pie.”

Lori Henning (junior - Forensic Molecular Biology): “I think it’s a cake because you know pies usually have fruit filling.

Kaylan Henley (transfer sophomore - Professional media): “It’s certainly more pie than it is cake because it has a crust.”

Alanna Tartsah (Marketing): “I think cheesecake is also a cake. Only the reason because pie I feel like has the crust on the top and it’s like lattice and everything the way it’s styled. So yeah, I think it’s a cake.”

Shannon Daly (Contemporary Music Business): “I think cheesecake is a cake because in the name it says cake.”

6

September 3, 2019

Netflix

Netflix Curbs Smoking, Not Marijuana JaNae Williams @janaebwilliams REPORTER

A Netflix decision to curb smoking in original programming reportedly does not include instances of marijuana use.

Netflix announced a plan to ban smoking in June after receiving criticism from anti-tobacco advocacy groups. However, there is no sign that the use of pot will be tapered.

Twitter users vocalized their criticism after the announcement of the initial ban. Many cited other offensive aspects of Netflix programming that remain viewable. One of the most frequently mentioned was the suicide in the first season of 13 Reasons Why. Despite defense of the scene by some, including the shows actors, the company eventually opted for removal.

A Truth Initiative study of shows most popular with 15 to 24-year-old viewers led to the decision to ban smoking. All depictions of tobacco were counted, including use of products and visibility on screen.

The study also looked at cable and broadcast shows. Across the series examined, Netflix content had the highest frequency of depictions.

Netflix said in a statement that it will only include smoking and e-cigarette use in shows and movies rated TV-14, PG-13 or below for historical and factual reasons. Additionally, shows geared toward older viewers will only contain use of the products for instances of cultural, historical or artistic significance.

The Netflix decision comes at a time when the overall trend in smoking is down. Adult and youth cigarette use has fallen significantly since the late nineties, according to the American Lung Association.

A number of campaigns have existed since the eighties aimed at reducing smoking in America. Effectiveness of programs is based largely on the way they choose to target different groups according to Dr. Scott Singleton, associate professor of Psychology at the University of Central Oklahoma.

“You have things like D.A.R.E, which has been hugely ineffective according to the research, but then you have other media projects like the Truth Initiative, which seems to have been pretty effective,” Singleton said.

Singleton, a board-certified behav-

Netflix streaming service has made the decision to stop showing smoking and e-cigarette use in shows unless it is needed. (Provided/Pixabay)

ior analyst and former school psychologist, explained effective campaigns have multiple components.

These campaigns attempt to educate and usually have media aspects to increase their relevance to the target audience.

Singleton’s years working for schools allowed him to see the link between the messages and images people encounter and the formation of habits.

“Certainly, we have certain predispositions to behave in specific ways, that are maybe biological or evolutionary, but we can’t really control those,” Singleton said. “What is controllable, somewhat, is the environment.”

Environment is only one of the variables that affects a person’s likelihood to pick-up a habit. Individuals with similar environmental and biological factors may differ due to the complexities involved in human psychology.

The reasons for starting to smoke vary. However, the action often begins in the same way according to Singleton.

“You start smoking for one reason, maybe you just want to try it or you see some other people doing it, and that small amount of desire gets it started,” Singleton said. “But then the physiological addiction that goes around it, gets you trapped. It’s a process that we call a behavioral trap.”

Once the habit has started, it is very difficult to stop. Singleton explained that people believe they get an instant benefit from smoking, while the benefits for quitting are more abstract.

“The rewards are a little bit mismatched, smoking – now, versus quitting smoking – what will happen later,” Singleton said. “They call that delay-discounting.”

Singleton added that most people begin smoking as teenagers or in their early twenties, making college a time when many begin the habit.

Many universities, including UCO, have policies prohibiting the use of tobacco on campus.

These policies may help deter some students from picking up the habit.

Singleton said they may also be helpful for those attempting to quit.

UCO has been a tobacco-free campus since 2010, according to Adrienne Nobles, assistant vice president of university communications.

“The decision was made as a part

of our overall healthy campus initiative, “ Nobles said. “The research on the negative impacts of tobacco use and secondhand smoke is well-documented.”

UCO’s policy is extensive in the products it includes, extending beyond cigarettes to smokeless products. Additionally, vapes and other forms of prepared nicotine are included as well.

Nobles explained that the university only allows nicotine products recognized as aids for quitting by the FDA. UCO offers resources for those looking to quit using tobacco. The university also provides counseling and help with other substances through the Center for Counseling and Well-Being.

Netflix recieved backlash shortly after the release of Stranger Things 3 for their depictions of smoking. (Provided/Pixabay)

New Major/Medival Society

7

September 3, 2019

UCO Launches First Major to Include Sexuality Studies in Oklahoma

Pride parade participants ride on a float at the Oklahoma City Pride Parade on June 22. UCO lauched Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies major. (JaNae Williams/The Vista) Continued on Pg.1

for several years. Churchill initiated that program in 2013 and it became an official minor in 2015. She began the expansion to offer a major in addition to the minor based on student response.

“It became one of the largest interdisciplinary minors on campus, sometimes being the largest,” Churchill said. “It was really obvious to me

that students are interested in this and that there is a need for this, especially the sexuality studies piece.”

The major gives an academic boost to an area often only supported by campus initiatives like the Women’s Research Center and BGLTQ+ Student Center and other campus programming, Churchill explained.

“We’re really doing a service to everyone in Oklahoma by doing this,” Churchill said. “There are programs

like this throughout the country, but not a lot in this region.”

Response to the major so far has been positive. Some incoming freshmen have even chosen to declare or change their major upon learning about the degree, according to Churchill.

Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies majors who complete 124 credit hours earn a Bachelor of Arts.

Course offerings explore historical,

geographical and philosophical looks at women’s, gender and sexuality issues among other subjects.

“We have over 17 affiliated faculty with the major who teach classes that count toward the major, so it’s truly interdisciplinary,” Churchill said.

Students interested in learning more about the program can stop by The Center in Thatcher Hall Room 106 or visit the College of Liberal Arts.

Grab Your Swords, Garbs, and Armor: Medieval Society Promo Event James D. Jackson @JamesDJackson15 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

The Medieval Society at the University of Central Oklahoma held its first event of the semester on Aug. 28 to teach new students about the organization and showcase creations from current members.

Although the society had a table

at the Involvement Fair, this event in Plunkett Park was their own and more favorable for them to promote what they do, according to faculty sponsor Reid S. Weber.

“We have a little more room to spread out and show what we’re all about,” Weber said. “What we do and the kind of things we make and a good chance to sit around an environment like this and talk about what the possibilities are.”

Aliessia Jones, at the desk, speaks to a UCO student about the UCO Medieval Society at their promotional event on Aug. 28. (Tanner Laws/The Vista)

The event showcased creations such as dull swords, clothing and armor from current members of the society. Weber said the reason is to make an impression on incoming freshmen.

“It’s a chance to kind of jump in and…show off projects that they’ve been working on,” Weber said. “A lot of these are projects that started last year. So our upperclassmen have a chance to The organization creates tools and clothing is to teach students the science of archeology in a hands-on experience rather than reading about it in a textbook, according to Webster.

“What can you actually learn from wearing chainmail for five hours? And what can you learn by getting hit by a sword?” Weber said. “I have a number of students this year who are interested in making bows. So we can’t do that on campus for liability but we can do it off campus. We’ll work on making historical medieval bows.”

The point of the club is to prac-

tice experimental archeology. Weber said students would generally take tools out of museums and learn from them, but at UCO they try to create the tools first.

“We use the skills as much as we can [use] the tools that would have been available in the Middle Ages,” Weber said. “We create the stuff: the ‘garb’, the hats, the shoes, the swords, the leathers and then we learn by using it.”

Weber said as of the Aug. 28 event, he has over 100 students signed up on OrgCentral and typically 25 students are active in the society.

“I think we have just about every major represented,” Weber said.

“It’s what the students are motivated to do. Then we try to support them on that wave. And so if the student wants to do it, we’re going to try and find a way to help them to do it and find the know-how.”

Editorial

September 3, 2019

9

Constitutional Carry Could Cause Calamity continued from pg. 1

Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr. said “the most stringent protection of free speech would not protect a man in falsely shouting fire in a theater and causing a panic.”

The Fourth Amendment provides “the right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers and effects against unreasonable search and seizure …” Despite this, one is still subject to going through airport security, drunken driving checkpoints and having their car searched following a claim that an officer supposedly smells something.

So, why should the Second Amendment be exempt, especially in a time when there are more guns than people in the country?

A 2009 study published by the American Journal of Public Health revealed that someone carrying a gun for self-defense was 4.5 times more likely to be shot during an assault.

This is bad news for the “good guy with a gun” archetype.

Examples of this archetype becoming a hero exist, but they are rare and cherry-picked by gun enthusiasts.

The dangers far exceed any marginal chance of being a gun owner in a situation like that.

In 2018, Emmanuel Fitzgerald Bradford Jr., 21, was fatally shot from behind by police inside an Alabama shopping mall after he was mistaken for the shooter. While he was indeed armed, he was trying to help people to safety.

Law enforcement should be concerned about this legislation as well.

Former Oklahoma City Police Chief Bill Citty is opposed to “constitutional carry” laws. Citty said training will have to change as guns will be easier to get, and officers should be concerned to know who is behind the gun and

Moms Demand Action is an activist group that argues for stronger gun laws in legislation. A woman signs an emailing list while a representative talks to her. (Tanner Laws/The Vista)

who has the gun.

After Missouri passed similar legislation in Jan. 2017, St. Louis experienced a nearly 25 percent increase in the rate of aggravated assaults with a gun in 2017 as compared to 2016.

That comes out to 484 more gun-related aggravated assaults than the previous year.

A 2010 poll by Giffords Law Center of registered voters across the United States found that 57 percent feel less safe after learning that concealed guns may lawfully be carried in public.

Gun possession is also correlated with increased road rage, according to a PubMed study. People have lapses in self-control and judgement when emotions take over.

In 1967, Leonard Berkowitz, professor of psychology at the University of

Wisconsin, conducted a study that revealed just the sight of guns increased aggression.

Participants were purposefully perturbed by someone posing as another participant as they were both seated at a table with either guns or sports items. The actual participant was allowed to deliver an electric shock to the fake one after being angered.

When guns were present, the shock delivered was higher. This was named the “weapons effect.” Berkowitz concluded that guns not only permit violence, they can stimulate it too.

Second Amendment enthusiasts in the state are already planning on showing up to certain places carrying a firearm to gauge the reactions of law enforcement.

On Aug. 8, in the wake of the mass

shootings in Dayton, Ohio and El Paso, Texas, Dmitriy Andreychenko entered a Missouri Walmart wearing body armor, armed with a rifle and about 100 rounds of ammunition as a “social experiment.” It should come as no surprise that he said he now regrets the decision.

“Constitutional carry” laws are what turn a small squabble into a potentially life threatening altercation. When one insults another, a visible gun turns the perception of the affront from an insult to a threat on one’s life.

The average person is prone to perceiving a life threatening situation in a wild and unpredictable way. “Constitutional carry” is a significant public risk with Darwin-esque consequences for some.

10

September 3, 2019

Backstreet Boys

Backstreet Boys Are Back!

Top: The Backstreet Boys are displayed on a screen just before they appear on stage, from left, AJ McLean, Nick Carter, Brian Littrell, Kevin Richardson and Howie Dorough during the Backstreet Boys DNA World Tour on Aug. 28 at the BOK Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The tour encompasses a 33-song setlist which includes nine songs from their ninth studio album, DNA, which stands for Digital and Analog. (Tanner Laws/The Vista)

Middle left: From left, Howie Dorough, Nick Carter, AJ McLean and Kevin Richardson sing and dance during the Backstreet Boys DNA World Tour on Aug. 28 at the BOK Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma. (Tanner Laws/The Vista)

Bottom left: From left AJ McLean and Kevin Richardson perform during the Backstreet Boys DNA World Tour on Aug. 28 at the BOK Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma. (Tanner Laws/The Vista)

Middle right: From left, AJ McLean and Nick Carter perform during the Backstreet Boys DNA World Tour on Aug. 28 at the BOK Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma. (Tanner Laws/The Vista)

Bottom rig: The Backstreet Boys, AJ McLean, Nick Carter, Brian Littrell, Kevin Richardson and Howie Dorough perform during the Backstreet Boys DNA World Tour on Aug. 28 at the BOK Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma. (Tanner Laws/The Vista)

11

September 3, 2019

W

O

R

D

S

E

A

R

C

WORDS HAVING A BALL

H

Games BALLAD BALLGAME BALLPOINT BALLROOM BEAN BALL CORNBALL DEAD BALL HIGHBALL MOTHBALL ODDBALL PAINTBALL PINBALL PUFFBALL SNOWBALL SOURBALL

WEEKLY HOROSCOPE ARIES (March 21 to April 19) Be careful not to allow the backers of a new financial “deal” to pull the wool over the Lamb’s eyes. It could hold fewer plusses and more negatives than you were first led to believe.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) It’s a good idea to finish all incomplete tasks so that you can devote your attention to next week’s projects. The weekend could hold surprises for romantic Fernandas and Ferdinands.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) A workplace suggestion you made a while ago that you might have forgotten could come back with a request to turn it from idea to reality. Your social life picks up considerably this weekend.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Someone from the past could return with an intriguing opportunity for a future project. Check into it, by all means. But don’t neglect your current responsibilities in the meantime.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) Keeping your claws sheathed and using good humor instead to counter someone who’s bad-mouthing the Big Cat isn’t easy. But it’s the best way to avoid more problems down the line.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) A workplace situation could improve if you’re less critical and more supportive of those who are, after all, trying to do their best. Let them know you’re there to help when necessary.

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) A new job offer might not carry all the benefits

CROSSWORD

LAST WEEK’S ANSWERS

Starry Words Word Search

(Week of Aug. 27, 2019)

you’re seeking. Make sure you know what you’re entitled to, what is off the table and what is negotiable before you make a decision.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) A social obligation you would rather get out of could hold some surprisingly positive aspects.

Why not go and see for yourself? A family member makes a curious request.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Before tackling that new project awaiting you at home or on the job, take time out for some much-deserved pampering to help lift your spirits and restore your energy levels.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Your social calendar begins to fill up more quickly than you expected. And that’s great. You deserve to enjoy some good fun after so much time spent on serious matters.

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) A domestic situation continues to improve, thanks to all the tender, loving concern you’ve shown.

A colleague makes a questionable move that you might want to check out sooner rather than later.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20) A sudden turn in a romantic relationship calls for both a rational and passionate response. Keep the love level high, but also find out why the problem arose in the first place.

BORN THIS WEEK: You often set high standards for others. But to your credit, you set the same expectations for yourself. (c) 2019 King Features Synd., Inc.

Weekly SUDOKU

12

September 3, 2019

Trade War

UCO Professors Provide Perspective on China Trade War Maury “Kevin” Blair @MauryB007 CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Two University of Central Oklahoma professors provided professional insight on how events might unfold regarding China’s recent placement of $75 billion in tariffs on U.S. goods, including soybeans and crude oil. The tariffs are set to take effect Sept. 1.

UCO Economics Professor Zhen Zhu and Political Science Professor Loren Gatch both characterized China’s placement of tariffs on U.S. goods as part of a complex, ongoing trade war between the two countries.

Professor Zhu said the situation will unfold depending upon how China responds to the whole situation.

Zhu explained that the best outcome would be for both sides to take a step back, but said he doesn’t think that will happen any time soon. He attributes this to the fact that China now has economic leverage which it did

Zhen Zhu, Ph.D., economics. (Maury “Kevin” Blair/The Vista)

Loren Gatch, Ph.D., political science.

(Maury “Kevin” Blair/The Vista)

not have when it sought to enter the World Trade Organization in 2000. He explained that when China joined the WTO they had to accept rules written for them, but they now have enough leverage to write rules themselves.

Zhu also said that he does not expect that China will easily back down, citing cultural and political issues.

“One thing in dealing with China is they have a position they don’t want to give up,” Zhu said,

referring to China’s increased economic leverage, adding “Ending the trade war is probably going to be better for everybody.”

Professor Gatch described China’s announcement of tariffs on U.S. goods as part of a series of blows exchanged by the two countries.

“The dispute with China is part of a larger pattern of economic negotiations between Donald Trump and not just China, but some of our other trading partners like

In this June 29, 2019, file photo, President Donald Trump, left, meets with Chinese President Xi Jinping during a meeting on the sidelines of the G-20 summit in Osaka, Japan. China has announced it will raise tariffs on $75 billion of U.S. products in retaliation for President Donald Trump’s planned Sept. 1 duty increase in a war over trade and technology policy. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh, File) A man walks past an electronic stock board showing Japan’s Nikkei 225 index at a securities firm in Tokyo Tuesday, Aug. 27, 2019. Asian shares mostly rose Tuesday as investors found reason to be cautiously optimistic again about the potential for progress in the costly trade war between the U.S. and China. (AP Photo/ Eugene Hoshiko)

Germany, Japan; other European countries more generally,” and indicated that China’s announcement is part of that pattern.

Acknowledging the existence of a large trade deficit between the U.S. and China and other countries, Gatch said that Trump’s conviction is that the U.S. has been at a disadvantage in its trade relations over many years and believes that tariffs are simply a way to put pressure on other countries to buy more American goods.

“Most economists disagree with Donald Trump’s analysis of trade,” said Gatch, “they believe that free trade is basically a mutually beneficial relationship between capitalist countries, our trading partners in Europe and Japan,” adding “China is something different because China is a different kind of capitalism.”

Both professors agree that the Oklahoma economy could eventually be affected if the trade war continues, and especially if the U.S. enters a recession.

In this June 29, 2019, file photo people walk past an Apple store at a shopping mall in Beijing. Caught in the crossfire of a trade war, American businesses operating in China say they’ve been hurt by the hostilities between the world’s two biggest economies and are facing increasingly unfair competition from Chinese firms. (AP Photo/ Mark Schiefelbein, File)

All 2000s Team

13

September 3, 2019

UCO All-2000s Team: Offense Edition

Quarterback Chas Stallard throwing a pass in his 2017 season with the Bronchos. Stallard set many of his records in his final year at UCO. (Vista Archives)

Derek Parker @D_Park2 SPORTS EDITOR

Throughout the years, a plethora of football greats have worn the bronze and blue. While the Bronchos do have a storied history stretching back to 1902, here’s a look at the All-2000s Bronchos offensive squad.

Quarterback: Chas Stallard.

Backup: T.J. Eckert Perhaps the easiest pick on this list, it's hard-sought to find a passing record Chas Stallard doesn’t own. As quarterback of the Bronchos from 2014-17, Stallard is the all-time passing leader at Central with 7,411 yards, the next highest being Brett Manning with 5,823 yards. Stallard own the records for most touchdowns thrown in a game with six, a season with 29 and career with 54. He also owns the record for most yards in a season with 3,374 in 2017. Stallard will inevitably be a unanimous UCO Hall of Famer.

the starting running back position on the All-2000s team.

Narrowly beating out first team 2002 All-Conference fullback and current Bronchos head coach Nick Bobeck, is Alex Aguilar. From 200306, Aguilar was truly one of the best and most versatile H-backs in the nation. He earned second-team honors in his first season at Central, and firstteam all conference in each of his last three years. Known for his blocking and receiving ability, Aguilar would certainly cap off the backfield on the 2000s offensive squad.

ing a ton of talent to pick from at the receiver position. Ultimately, Dee Dee Carter, J.T. Luper and Christian Hood earned the top spots. Carter, who played from 2000-03 is undoubtedly WR1, ranking third all-time in receptions with over a thousand more yards all-time than anyone on the list with 3,357 yards. He also leads with 19.4 yards per catch. Next up is Luper, the speedster who has the second most receptions of all time at UCO, including the most in a season with 110. Finally, is Christian Hood, who from 2011-14 nabbed more receptions than any receiver in UCO history at 185. Birmingham is also notably ranked fourth on the receptions list all-time.

Wide receivers: Dee Dee Carter, JT Luper, Christian Hood.

Tight end: Brandon Whiteley.

Backup: Brock Gruenburg.

Due to the change in the nature of football, many of UCO’s receiving greats originated in the 2000’s, leav-

Brandon Whiteley and Brock Gruenburg were the only tight ends in the 2000s to earn first-team All-Con-

Fullback: Alex Aguilar. Backup: Nick Bobeck.

Running back: Joshua Birmingham. Backup: Clay McKenzie.

One of the tougher positions on this list, UCO has a large pool of great running backs to pick from. In the end, Joshua Birmingham, running back from 2010-13 just edged out UCO’s workhorse from 2014-18, Clay McKenzie. The Luther native has the second-most rushing yards in school history with 4,276, second only to the great Steve Tate who rushed for just under 100 more yards. Birmingham had significantly more yards than McKenzie, but with significantly more attempts. Even still, Birmingham averaged 5.3 yards per carry to McKenzie’s 4.9, leading him to earn

Joshua Birmingham running the ball in 2013. One of the best Broncho running backs ever, Birmingham set multiple records rushing and recieving. (Vista Archives)

ference honors. Whiteley beat out Gruenburg by earning it in both 2001 and 2002 as the best tight end the conference.

Offensive line: John Fitzgerald, BJ Bender, Noah Hammons, Sam Noble, Brandon Waggoner.

John Fitzgerald is number one on this list. From 1998-2000, he was one of the most dominant linemen in Division II, earning All-Americans honors every year. He also led UCO to an undefeated season and the No. 1 ranking in 1998. Despite only playing one year in the 2000s, he was dominant enough to make the list. BJ Bender earned first team All-Conference honors in 2001, and second team in 2002 and 2003. Bender was consistently one of the best offensive linemen in the conference, and is definitely worthy to be on the 2000s team. Noah Hammons is currently preparing for his upcoming senior season at UCO after earning All-Americans honorable mentions last season. The 6’2”, 300-pound Moore product should be in a prime position to dominate the conference this year, and would be an imposing presence alongside fellow greats like Fitzgerald and Bender. Sam Noble earned his way onto top offensive linemen of the 2000s by being one of the most physically imposing players to come through UCO at 6’5”, 315-pounds and having the stats to back it up. He earned All-Conference second team honors in 2016, and first-team in 2017. Rounding off the O-line was a tough decision, but ultimately Brandon Waggoner, who earned dominated the conference from 2014-16, made the cut. Waggoner earned all-conference honors in all three years. He played both tackle and center in his career.

14

September 3, 2019

Football Preview

Bronchos Wide Receiver Ready to Prove Critics Wrong Bryce Mckinnis @McKinnisBryce SPORTS WRITER

Central senior wide receiver Dustin Basks may not have the stature of a traditional pass-catcher, but he packs all the skill in his 5-foot-9-inch frame.

“I enjoy proving [opposing players] wrong,” Basks said, “and making them respect me as a player.”

The Claremore, Okla. native appeared in all 12 games for the ‘Chos in 2018, recording 909 receiving yards and seven touchdowns in his junior campaign. He also added 217 and 220 yards in punt and kick returns, respectively.

“I started off the first game kinda slow,” Basks said, “but as the season went on and I started gaining more confidence, I played much better.”

His goal for 2019 is simple: to “have a better season than last year.”

“We have way more weapons,” Basks said, “so people won’t really be able to focus on just me.”

Now a senior, “D.B.” looks to capitalize on his final season on offense and special teams after leading Central’s receiving corps in receptions, yardage and touchdowns.

UCO Wide Receiver Dustin Basks (13) looks on as the Bronchos practice for the upcoming season. Basks is looking to improve as a senior, coming off a breakout season in 2018. (James D. Jackson/The Vista)

“Being the old head in the receiving corps, I know [younger players] watch me and the way I do things,” Basks said, “so I’ve just been trying to lead by example the best that I can.”

D.B. saw half-a-season’s worth of action in 2017, where he scored a pair of touchdowns and grabbed 14

receptions before his breakout 2018 season. Basks said that he hopes to see a similar jump in production in 2019.

“My goal is to definitely improve on last season,” said Basks, “and hopefully help this team accomplish our main goal.”

The Bronchos, who finished 8-4 last season, will play their Week 4 matchup against Northwest Missouri, a game that will be broadcast on all of the NCAA’s social media channels. “(Playing on TV) should be pretty fun,” Basks said.

Bucking Broncho

September 3, 2019

15

Thanks For the ‘H’ Pittsburg State

Derek Parker @D_Park2 SPORTS EDITOR

One respects the H, one doesn’t.

With one of the most highly anticipated Broncho football seasons ever lined up, it’s imperative that the University of Central Oklahoma starts out their season with a win over a bitter rival: the Pittsburg State University Gorillas.

To call this a rivalry is slightly misleading, as Pittsburg State has handedly led the series for the past decade. But to say the Bronchos want to dethrone the Gorillas should be an understatement.

Since UCO joined the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association conference in 2012, Pittsburg State has beaten the Bronchos in six of the seven meetings, outscoring them 268-172 in MIAA play. Central’s lone win came in 2015.

In their first conference game agaisnt PSU in 2012, the Bronchos traveled to Pittsburg, Kansas, and suffered a 34-19 loss to the Gorillas.

After being down 17-0, they battled back, but couldn’t come away with a win.

2013 and 2014 were much more lopsided, with PSU winning big in both contests.

In 2015, UCO flipped the script, dominating the Gorialls in a 49-31 victory. The Bronchos finished with 625 total yards of offense,which at

Buddy taking the H from Pittsburg State. Both schools notoriously include or exclude H’s in their name. (Michelle Pennza/Photo Illustration)

the time was good for fifth most yards in a game ever. Clay McKenzie and T.J. Eckert were on fire offensively, and not even the Gorillas stout defense could stop them that year. Before they knew what hit them, the score was 28-7.

Despite three straight Pittsburg State wins, the recent meetings between the two teams have been much closer. After winning in 2015,

L’Liott Curry running with the ball in the in the 2018 football season. (Vista Archives)

UCO dropped the following year by 14 points. In 2017, they lost by just three points.

Last season, UCO put up their second lowest total on the season losing 21-7, second only to their scoreless game against Fort Hays State. The Bronchos struggled to put anything together offensively until the fourth quarter last season, and by the time they scored it was too little, too late.

This year, however, the Bronchos will be ready. After struggling to find consistency on the offensive side of the ball last season, head coach Nick Bobeck turned to University of Louisiana-Monroe transfer Will Collins, who stepped into the starting quarterback role midseason and never looked back.

Collins led Central to a 6-1 record in his starts, including a thrilling 4134 win over Angelo State University in the C.H.A.M.P.S. Heart of Texas Bowl. Collins will undoubtedly be the guy for UCO going forward, and should set offensive consistency early in the season. If any parallels are made here, its that this Broncho team’s offense should be eerily similar to the same squad that blewout the Gorillas in 2015. UCO needs to start their season off hot, which they’ve struggled with at times.

But in order to get over the hump that is PSU, the Bronchos will need to have a complete game both offensively and defensively.

The Gorillas will be returning 13 players overall, seven on offense and six on defense. Offensively, Central is bringing back a ton of experience, but will need the defense to step up against what will be one of the best offenses in the MIAA. In 2018, UCO had a slight advantage in total offense at 406.6 yards per game to the Gorillas 398.4. PSU’s defense however made up for it, ranking second in the MIAA, allowing 304.8 yards per game. Central ranked fifth overall, giving up 356.9 ypg.

This year, the Bronchos best chance will be capitalizing on Pittsburg State’s weakened defense with their veteran offense.

PSU was ranked No. 3 in both the MIAA Preseason Coaches and Media Polls, just one spot ahead of UCO on both lists.

If the Bronchos truly are going to live up to the 2019 hype, an opening win against a supposedly better team will be vital to their campaign.

Central takes on Pittsburg State on Thursday, September 5 in Edmond at 7 p.m.