UCO's The Vista, March 12, 2024

‘Brother

Jake Ramsey Managing Editor

Matt’ preaches hate, student threatens to jump off ledge

Matthew Bourgault, a member of Kansas City, Missouri-based Consuming Fire Campus Ministries, protested outside the Nigh University Center at UCO on March 11, sparking a counter-protest from students seeking to remove him from the university campus. One student even threatened to jump off a ledge if campus police were not called.

Bourgault, or “Brother Matt” as he referred to himself, is a traveling evangelical who goes to

college campuses to protest what he believes to be a Godless society. The 64-year-old man, according to James Madison University’s newspaper, The Breeze, originates from Missouri and currently has no relation to Oklahoma, nor UCO. His goal was to preach, “for the glory of God.” This included yelling at students walking by, telling them that they cannot, “f— people in the ass.” Bourgault also called counter-protesters pedophiles and claimed they will go to Hell.

Cont. on page 4

Opioid use is up: UCOSA says Narcan saves lives

Cameron University becomes first campus to provide Narcan vending machines

Jake Ramsey Managing Editor

7.1% of students self-reported the use of non-medical opioids across the UCO campus in the Spring of 2023 according to the Center for Counseling and Well-Being, which has now sparked the conversation of Narcan vending machines on campus.

“It’s trying to navigate how to have these very serious and sometimes emotionally charged conversations, while trying to understand what would be best for the university on the administrators’ side of view,” said Izzi Barry, Chair of the UCO Student Association (UCOSA).

Barry, as well as many others at UCOSA have been meeting regularly with students, where she says one of the most discussed concerns amongst the student body has been getting Narcan on campus.

“Narcan saves lives, that is one thing that is not debatable,” said Barry.

When discussing overdoses and drug-use across Oklahoma, Mark

Woodward of the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics said, “Certainly opioid, especially fentanyl is our fastest rising drug overdose death category.”

Combining the fact that there has been a rise in opioid-induced overdoses across the state with the rise in campus opioid use, Barry and other members of UCOSA, as well as many in the student body feel that narcan vending machines are a necessity on campus.

“It is helping people, it saves lives,” said Barry. “If this can save one student’s life, it is worth having it.”

According to data collected by the Oklahoma State Department of Health, the number of fentanyl overdose deaths increased 12-fold in the year of 2022, from prior years.

Oklahoma saw 50 fentanyl induced overdose deaths in 2019, compared to 2022’s 609.

“17-27 is a large percent of them, not all of them certainly,” said Woodward when discussing the age-range of victims of fentanyl overdose.

Cont. on page 4

Author of “Slapping Leather” to speak on queer rodeo at UCO March 29

Sam Royka Editor-in-Chief

On March 29, UCO will host a talk by Elyssa Ford, shedding light on the stories of gay rodeo. Ford, associate professor of history at Northwest Missouri State University, will share her latest research, exploring nuanced expressions of masculinity and the impact of the AIDS epidemic on the gay rodeo community.

Ford’s research stems from her latest co-authored book, “Slapping Leather: Queer Cowfolx at the Gay Rodeo.” In the book, Ford shows how the AIDS crisis reshaped the landscape of gay rodeo. Between fundraising

efforts and community resilience, the book tells a story of solidarity.

Equality has always been ingrained in the ethos of gay rodeo, with all events open to men and women though they compete in separate events and are judged separately. However, despite intentions of across-theboard equality, female participation has never exceeded 25%, Ford explained.

This imbalance leads to larger prize pools for men because of higher contestant numbers, perpetuating a “male-dominated, masculine-focused environment” that may exclude lesbians or less masculine presenting gay men,

Ford said. Transgender participation in the rodeos is complex, and Ford notes there has been some rule evolution over time.

“One of the things they’re not as comfortable about are people like, repeatedly changing gender identities for the events that they compete on,” Ford said. This is intended to keep participants competing in static categories but could present problems for people who are nonbinary, genderfluid, or transition multiple times throughout their lives.

Cont. on page 4

Super Tuesday means a rematch: a look at Biden, Trump platforms in 2024

Sam Royka

Editor-in-Chief

President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump emerged as the frontrunners following March 5’s Super Tuesday primaries. As Nikki Haley drops out of the Republican race, the stage is set for a presidential rematch.

A stark contrast in platform keeps the stakes high, with Biden prioritizing climate action

and racial equity while Trump doubles down on deportation and divisive policies.

As the nation braces for the upcoming election, contrasting platforms highlight the gulf of an American ideological divide.

Biden has sent both weapons support to Israel and food to refugees in the Gaza strip, who are now largely displaced to Rafah in man-made famine conditions. The president said on a hot mic after his State of the Union ad-

dress that he and Israel’s prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu need to have a “come to Jesus meeting.”

The Israel-Hamas conflict has killed more than 30,000 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, and captures world attention as a humanitarian crisis.

On Israel’s involvement in Gaza, Trump has said that “You’ve got to finish the problem,” appearing to support the continued bombing and not

distinguishing between Hamas and the people of Palestine.

In other news, Biden’s current platform pledges to “take swift action to tackle the climate crisis,” by reducing pollution. The goal is to “put the United States on a path to achieve net-zero emissions, economy-wide, by no later than 2050,” according to a White House document.

Graph made with data from the Oklahoma Department of Health shows the steep increase in overdose deaths. (TESS PETERS/THE VISTA)

Rubix Cubes Page 5

Book cover for “Slapping Leather,” Ford and Scofield’s new research on gay rodeo. (PROVIDED)

A protestor holds a sign that read “God Loves Everyone except for people like This” while Bourgault speaks. (KYLER LANNING/FOR THE VISTA)

Weekly Horoscope

March 21-April 19

Your creativity is prime as the Sun swings your way. You are gearing up for a project and it’s more important than ever to focus your drive as Aries season prepares to open. Your song is “Cinnamon” by Jome.

May 21-June 20

Your work-world is moving. The little things start to fall into place now, and if you look there may be some magic in the details! Your song is “Up Up Up” by GIVERS.

April 20-May 20

Your networks undergo some final changes as the Sun gets ready to change signs. Integrate those final touches, press save, and get ready for a much-deserved rest. Your song is “Move on Up” by Curtis Mayfield.

June 21-July 22 LEO July 23-August 22

March 17 is a good day to express emotions and creativity. This whole week, however, is excellent for painting or other artwork. Your song is “Golden Light” by STRFKR.

LIBR A

September 23-October 2 2

Changes regarding health or routine wrap up now. Expect a slow, steady gradient that’s right on time. Your song is “Gamesofluck” by Parcels.

SAGITTARIUS

Your open heart will lead to a stronger foundation and deeper bonds within your inner circle as Pisces season winds down. Your song is “Remind Me” by Röyksopp.

February 19-March 20 ARIES

This is a good time to travel right as the Sun changes signs. Subtle shifts in perspective settle into place now. Congrats! Your song is “Genesis” by Justice.

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November 22-December 21 CAPRICORN December 21-January 20

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Week of 3/11/24

January 21-February 18

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AAUW emphasizes inclusivity with Women’s History Month kickoff

Jiwoo Han Contributing Writer

UCO celebrated Women’s History Month with a March 7 event hosted by the American Association of University Women (AAUW).

Jennifer Veach, a senior majoring in elementary education, played a key role as a member of AAUW in organizing the event. The event aimed to highlight the significance of Women’s History Month and the mission of AAUW on campus.

“The AAUW chapter at UCO aligns with the national values and missions of the organization,” Veach said. “Inclusivity, intergenerational dialogue, intersectionality, and empowerment are our guiding principles.”

The Women’s History Month kickoff featured Professor Angela Grunewald, the first female superintendent of Edmond Public Schools, who shared her experiences and insights into women’s achievements.

“Our goal was to provide a brief introduction about the history of Women’s History Month, the organization’s background, and our campus initiatives,” Veach said.

Throughout the academic year, AAUW orga-

nized various events including Femme Fest, Why Take the Wheel, and collaborations with the Black Women’s Initiative for Black Girl Magic: Pretty in Pink. This spring semester, AAUW donated

500 journals and hosted breakout sessions at the Women’s History Month kickoff.

“The theme for this event was ‘HERstory,’” Veach said. “We’re proud to advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, especially in today’s climate.”

The inclusive community student hub played a pivotal role in inspiring and educating students about Women’s History Month.

“UCO students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to participate in these events,” Veach said.

The Women’s History Month Kickoff was a collaborative effort involving the Inclusive Community Student Hub, UCO’s Chartwells catering service, and various student organizations, including AAUW.

Looking forward, Veach hopes to see increased student engagement in future Women’s History Month celebrations at UCO.

“UCO has many creative, intelligent women,” Veach said. “Attending events like this can help them recognize their potential and be inspired.”

As March progresses, Veach said she remains committed to promoting empowerment and equality on campus.

Students get involved on campus : New Book Club founded at UCO

Abbi Avers

Contributing Writer

A new student organization is hoping to grow involvement and promote intellectual discourse on campus through the use of books this semester.

The UCO Book Club, created and led by President Reese Lugafet, encourages a welcoming space for individuals to share their love for reading and engage in thought-provoking discussions.

“Intellectually speaking, this club is great because reading is a wonderful way to engage your brain in something fun and beneficial for your health. Everyone there is always super friendly and it’s a great way to meet new people,” Lugafet said.

From when the club first began to its current status as an official UCO student organization, the UCO Book Club has undergone several transformations, adapting its structure and activities to meet the diverse needs and preferences of its members. What started as a monthly book club has evolved into meeting every two months, allowing for more flexible reading schedules and participation among members.

“Whenever I would try to join other clubs, I found that it was hard to actively participate in other organizations on campus because their event schedules and meeting times were less forgiving. The main goal of this club was to make sure everyone in it could actively participate,” said

Lugafet.

Under the guidance of faculty advisor Shonna Covin, the club adheres to UCO guidelines and fosters a supportive environment conducive to learning and personal development.

When discussing what the club was about, Lugafet said that the club is driven by a passion for promoting academic excellence and personal growth, and also prioritizes educational initiatives, including study sessions and presentations on topics related to learning and memory.

Looking ahead, Lugafet envisions continued growth and expansion for the UCO Book Club, with a focus on increasing membership and organizing more enriching activities.

UCO’s VITA offers free help with filing taxes in the Business building

Gracie Hendrix Contributing Writer

The University of Central Oklahoma’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program is providing free income tax assistance and e-filing to UCO students, faculty and staff from now until April 6 in room 107 in the College of Business building on campus.

This service is available Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2-5:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. In order to be helped people will need to bring their drivers license or a valid ID, their social security number and any past forms. International students will need to bring all of that as well as a passport or VISA.

As tax season approaches people are working to get their tax documents in order, ensure everything is right and send it off to the right people before April 15. However, a lot of people get things wrong and they often don’t trust the IRS to help them get it right.

Professor Riley Shaull has been with UCO since 2017. He began teaching at UCO in 2019 but has worked with finance for 25 years. He believes the biggest mistake people make when filing their taxes is listening to someone who is not trained in that field. People listen to the advice but don’t question if that person is credible or reliable.

“I think you should actually go with somebody that has been trained in the field and is current on the tax laws, which change every year,” Shaull said. A Comprehensive Taxpayer Attitude Survey

STAFF

Sam Royka Editor-in-Chief

Jake Ramsey Managing Editor

Taylor Horner Photo Editor

Matilda Harvey Copy Editor

Sam Kozlowski Digital Editor

Bradie Gray Sports Editor

Zak Royka Reporter

Britton Summers Reporter

Victor Lopez Photographer

Troy Isbell Photographer

Tess Peters Graphic Designer

George Lang Adviser

(CTAS) Executive Report published in 2022 by the IRS, surveyed over 2,000 people about their opinions associated with the IRS. One of the statistics found was that 88% of people agree that the IRS should focus on improving customer service and assistance to taxpayers.

“I agree, they should work on their customer service. Also though, this is an IRS system, VITA is their program. All the people that I deal with with the Internal Revenue Service are willing to go the extra mile, very knowledgeable and will help in any way they can,” he said.

Shaull said that there are a few flaws in the tax filing process but if the laws were simplified everyone could end up paying the same amount which would be a whole different problem.

“Nobody likes it, but of course the taxes keep the schools open, roads, defense, all those things that we really need and like to enjoy would go away if we didn’t pay taxes,” he said.

While this program helps those who need it, it

also helps students on campus learning how to go into this field. The volunteers are certified students taking a class and their homework is filing people’s taxes.

“It is a college credit class. We try to make it as realistic as possible as working for a firm where they have to deal with clients. They have to manage their time. They also have to write a paper at the end of tax season. There are no tests in it, other than the test to get certified,” he said.

Anne Michelle-Jean Baptiste is a current student and volunteer with the VITA program. She signed up for the class because she wanted to do something with taxes and because she is an international student who knows how important this service can be to other international students.

“I think it’s a really good thing to have on campus and it makes it more accessible for [international students] but also other people in our community, professors, students, etc.,” Baptiste said.

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The program takes place in room 107 at the College of Business at UCO. (JAKE RAMSEY/THE VISTA)

Angela Grunewald, superintendent of Edison Public Schools, talks not being afraid of taking up space as women in the workplace during her keynote speech at the Women’s History Month Kickoff event, March 6, 2024. (TAYLOR HORNER/THE VISTA)

Protest

Cont. from page 1

Boasting a sign that read, “Heathen beware!” Bourgault used multiple slurs against the LGBTQ+ community, foul language and aggressive remarks to attack those opposing him.

These remarks caused one unnamed student to stand up on a ledge near the Nigh, where she threatened to jump if UCO Police did not respond. Campus police and Edmond Police Department were called prior, but due to increasing tensions, campus police arrived on the scene to remove the student from the ledge.

“She said she’d only get down if somebody got people away from him,” said one UCO student, who preferred to remain anonymous.

said Atkins.

Atkins would then go on to discuss how it is not his responsibility to disperse the protest.

UCO President Todd Lamb, who was seen at the event, declined to comment until he can be briefed by Atkins.

“I think he’s just full of hate, it says it on his chest,” said Cole Shoemaker, a student at UCO who counter-protested Bourgault.

As protesters continued to assemble, members of UCO staff began handing out flyers with tips on how to respond to a protest.

The flyers included comments such as:

- Walk away. Remember you do not have to stay.

- Make an appointment to visit with a counselor about your feelings.

- Peacefully engage in dialogue

“I am not inclined to talk about a medical related issue,” said Chief of UCO Police, Julius Atkins, refusing to add additional comment.

According to eyewitnesses, Atkins was one of the officers who helped remove the student from the ledge.

“We are here for the safeguard of all involved. Speaker and students,”

Narcan

Cont. from page 1

According to the Oklahoma Census, the age range of 19-29 makes up 15% of Oklahoma County, which is where Edmond is located. Within Oklahoma county, 722 unintentional drug overdose deaths had been reported in 2021, with 130 being related to fentanyl, according to the Oklahoma State Department of Health. Also included in the statistics released by the Department of Health, was information stating that teens and adults, aged 15-24 had the highest hospitalization rate related to drug overdose.

In addition, 8.8% of University of Central Oklahoma students self-reported the use of non-medical stimulants in the Spring of 2023 according to the Center for Counseling and Well-Being.

When discussing the statistics of college-aged student related overdose deaths, Woodward also discusses how more and more fentanyl pills are being mixed with an animal tranquilizer called Xylazine, which can make narcan ineffective.

“These college kids, and adults, and even high school or middle school kids think they’re

Rodeo

Cont. from page 1

Also, rodeo can be a dangerous sport. Since the medical system is at times a dangerous or not-so-affirming place for queer folks, there are particular setups to handle injuries.

“When someone is injured at a rodeo, especially if there’s a trans contestant who’s injured, there always needs to be a support person

Election

Cont. from page 1

Trump’s platform includes plans for raids, 10% import tariffs, and a ban on gender-affirming healthcare for both children and adults.

raising signs alerting students that they can attend UCOSA meetings and have their grievances heard.

One of those members was Chair of UCOSA, Izzi Barry.

“It is really hard to navigate, because obviously when we see things like this we get really upset,” Barry said.

According to Barry, UCO Event Management was not informed of Bourgault’s protest.

As tensions grew, a UCO student took to standing on the bench next to Bourgault and arguing back with him.

Kyler Henderson, the student who argued with Bourgault, said, “It’s injustice, it’s not right. If one person stands up against it, it gives encouragement to the others.”

campus by Atkins shortly after 3 p.m., putting an end to the events that started around 11 a.m.

The Consuming Fire Campus Ministries preacher has visited many schools across the U.S. in an attempt to convert students of the universities. While on these campuses, Bourgault has faced multiple varying crowds, and has claimed he was assaulted on some campuses.

With events dating back to 2002, he has made his way through multiple universities, even some here in Oklahoma such as OSU in 2010.

Before becoming a preacher, Bourgault claims to have been a member of the U.S. Coast Guard, and a member of law enforcement in Florida. The Vista has not been able to confirm these claims.

with the presenter(s) to discover more about their perspective on the topic, and in turn, disclose your views.

Handing out those flyers was

Kailtin Logan Wimmer, J.D., Director of Accountability and Conflict Resolution. As well as Wimmer, members of the UCO Student Association (UCOSA) began

buying pharmaceutical drugs, like Oxy or Xanax and it ends up being a counterfeit pill, pressed to look like it,” said Woodward.

The pills can be made to look like M30 Oxycodone, also known as Percs, or Xanax bars.

“If it’s got large amounts of Xylazine or other chemicals, it can make Narcan ineffective,” said Woodward.

While Xylazine and other Narcan resistant chemicals have seen an increase, statistics from the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS) shows that Narcan treatments across the state have still been used to save potential overdose death victims.

According to ODMHSAS partner Shred the Stigma, 839 opioid overdose reversals took place due to narcan in the Oklahoma metro area in 2023.

With Narcan having been proven to be effective, the state of Oklahoma has been pushing out vending machines across the state. Currently 40 vending machines are being placed across the state, which include both narcan and fentanyl testing strips that can be used to prevent an overdose.

Through Oklahoma’s push to get Narcan vending machines

from the rodeo that goes with them to the hospital, to help in terms of, like, treatments, and identity and names, and all of those things. And like, these are conversations that they were having 20 years ago. So even though they’re not like, perfect, or always the most progressive, in many ways, they were having a lot of these conversations much earlier. And so in general, like, the trans members of gay rodeo feel really welcome there. So that’s been

Trump also pledged to shut down the Department of Education, move toward state funding, and promote prayer in classrooms.

Biden wants to focus on racial equity, “deliver criminal justice reform, end disparities in healthcare access and education, strengthen

Henderson was in Midwest City during the beginning of the protest and drove back to UCO after seeing the event taking place on social media.

UCOSA students attempted to move the protest away from the Nigh, because the UCO Child Study Center was going to be releasing soon, and they did not want the children from the daycare to see the events taking place, and hear Bourgault’s profanity.

Bourgault was escorted off of

around the state, UCO has been given a Federal Grant, which would provide money to get Narcan vending machines on campus, and while students, staff and members of UCOSA have been calling for it, there still have not been any updates from UCO administration on if a Narcan vending machine will be on campus.

“The grant covering the funding for Narcan vending machines and comprehensive overdose prevention and opioid education, clearly display the priority of addressing opioid addiction and overdose across the state, but also across the nation. This grant covers the cost of these vending machines completely, which supply naloxone as well as fentanyl testing strips. This grant means it would not cost the university anything to install this,” Barry said.

While UCO does not have any vending machines, Narcan is still available to students through other means. UCO police do carry Narcan and are trained on how to administer it should a student require it.

“I will recognize, and I do understand that sometimes students might not feel comfortable going to police,” said Barry.

Through UCO’s substance

good to see,” Ford said.

Another aspect of gay rodeo is the urban cowboy. Oklahoma City is home to The Great Plains Rodeo Association, who “are a group of volunteers who strive to promote gay rodeo,” according to their Facebook page. Last year, the 35th World Gay Rodeo Finals were held in El Reno, OK.

In the 1970s and even today there is a phenomenon of “rural to urban transplants” who seek accep-

fair housing, and restore Federal respect for Tribal sovereignty.”

Additionally, the Democratic candidate and current president wants to boost the American economy. He plans to work with Congress to build the economy back from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Adrienne Nobles, vice president of communications and public affairs at UCO, issued a statement.

“The individual who was on campus today has been to campus before and behaved similarly,” Nobles wrote. “He does this at other university campuses, too. Though we disagree with his statements, he was located in a free speech zone and his words are protected under the first amendment. UCO Police remained nearby to respond if necessary.”

misuse initiative Roll Sober, students can receive training on how to administer Narcan and how to recognize the symptoms of an overdose. Roll Sober also has fentanyl testing strips, and through them Narcan can be ordered for free.

“Those are all things that you have to do additional steps for, and you have to go interact with someone,” said Barry. “Taking out as many barriers as we can is really important.”

“You can also get it free online, and we encourage people to do that,” said Woodward. Narcan can be ordered through the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services website.

“We encourage schools, we encourage parents, we encourage anybody,” said Woodward in reference to having access to Narcan and Narcan training. He notes how easy it is for someone to overdose, whether that be from a first-time user experimenting or an elderly individual who mistakenly took a higher dose of medication.

If UCO were to implement a Narcan vending machine on campus, it would not be the first university to do so. Cameron University in Lawton currently has Narcan vending machines placed across campus.

tance in the cities that they might not find in their small towns, Ford said.

Challenging conventional narra tives, Ford’s research reveals the diverse experiences that define the American cowboy. Drawing from historical archives, she dismantles the romanticized and comparatively shallow portrayal of cowboys propagated by mainstream media. challenges with Oklahoma leaders.

Trump said he will pardon everyone who participated in the Jan. 6, 2021 insurrection at the United States Capitol. He also said he plans to dismantle the “deep state” via the mass firing of civil employees.

A counterprotestor directs speech at Bourgault. (VICTOR LOPEZ/THE VISTA)

Bourgault speaks. (VICTOR LOPEZ/THE VISTA)

‘Cube-Off’ success not puzzling to Rubik’s Cube competitors

Kelly Clayton Contributing Writer

Like a predator sizing up its prey, Ryan Pilat studies his competition, planning his strategy of attack.

Focusing in and calculating several moves before he makes his first, Ryan excels in a sport where the athlete has three main opponents: a cube, a clock and the competitor’s personal best. Only one of these adversaries requires total concentration.

Speed cubing is a sport in which participants compete at solving Rubik’s Cubes. To most people, solving one of these puzzles at all is an accomplishment, but in speed cubing, time marks achievement, and that time is measured to the hundredth of a second.

Ryan is certainly not most people when it comes to solving cubes. He was the world record holder in the sport, but edged out in December 2023 by .04 of a second. At age 15, he has spent more than half of his life working on his skills.

Cubing competitions, sanctioned by the World Cubing Association, are events where participants solve Rubik’s Cubes and their variants as fast as possible. For some, the time trial portions of the contests are not enough; such categories as one-handed and blind folded solves are also featured bouts.

Each contender takes a spot in front of a mat on a table. The mat is connected to a timer. A “runner” brings a scrambled cube, concealed in a container, and places it in front of the contestant. The judge checks with the competitor to see that they’re ready and, if given the all-clear, lifts the container, revealing the cube, allowing the athlete a strict 15-second inspection of the cube before beginning to solve.

“You’ll look for your first few moves and if you’re more advanced your first 10 to 12 to 15 moves in advance, so you’re able to know and plan all of those and be able to look ahead to the next step when you’re solving,” Ryan said.

After inspection, before the 15-second time limit, the entrant’s

hands must touch the mat to enable the solve timer. When the hands are lifted to work the puzzle, the timer starts. Once solved, the contestant then slams their hands on the mat to stop the clock. This logs the official time. Both the judge and athlete sign off on the scorecard, agreeing to the results.

Christina Kleehammer and her husband, Joshua, organized the OKC Cube-Off Winter 2024, held Feb. 24 at the Oklahoma City Convention Center. The exhibition hosted nearly 100 participants ranging from 5-year-olds to competitors in their 50s.

“We really wanted to help bring competitions here,” said Kleehammer, who was Inspired to stage the OKC Cube-Off by a speed cubing documentary on Netflix and their son Thaddeus’ love for cubing. “So, once we met The World Cubing Association people, we said, ‘How can we help? How can we bring more competitors to our area?’

“Every competition, we come back and we’re reunited with people from the same region that we don’t see in everyday life,” Kleehammer said. “But they come back and they see each other here and they check up on each other, like ‘How fast have you gotten now?’

and they just get excited for each other. Watching them grow and reconnect is really fun.”

Meeting up with friends involved in the sport is an incentive for most of the players and attendees. UCO student Michael Lander, who started competing back in 2018, often volunteers with local competitions, including organizing the UCO Cubing Winter 2024 back in January.

“I’m hoping that we can create a really great environment and they’re (first-time competitors) all wanting to come back and compete again,” Lander said. “I want them to have people in this hobby because some of my best friends are in this hobby with me and the way I met them was going to competitions. Rubik’s Cube competitions are a very special place, because it is a competition but it’s not really a competition against each other; the competition is against yourself, and it’s a really supportive environment.”

Adam Glover, who brought his son Joshua, left his home in Altus at 6:40 a.m. to make the 9 a.m. register.

“It’s a long-ish drive, but it’s valuable,” Glover said. “Not only do I get to see him compete in some-

thing he loves to do, he gets to meet new people, make new friends, but I get four hours in the car with him; just me and him which is great. This moment that we have together is just a really great gift.”

According to Ryan, few people in the competition can afford to make it a full-time job, and he mostly values the experience of going to competitions.

“I think it’s really fun and great to meet new people and new communities, and just being able to compete and break your own records and stuff is nice,” he said.

Competition against others doesn’t even register on many of the contestants’ radars, Kleehammer said.

“I can solve a cube in seven minutes and for most people, the fact that I can solve a cube is impressive,” she said. “For the people who compete, they’re like, ‘Seven minutes? That’s extremely slow.’”

Kleehammer said she plans to continue organizing Cube-Offs.

“As long as he’s having a blast and learning,” Kleehammer said, referring to son Thaddeus, ”then we’ll continue to help out and make sure that this is growing here, too.”

Time is ticking for potential TikTok termination by congress

Isabel Contreras

Contributing Writer

The House Energy and Commerce Committee unanimously approved a bipartisan bill to potentially ban TikTok on March 7.

This bill is referred to as the “Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Application Act” and was introduced by Rep. Mike Gallagher (R-Wisconsin) and Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-Illinois).

If the bill is passed, it would require ByteDance, the China-based parent company of TikTok, to sell the app or face a ban in the United States. It would also allow the President of the United States to determine if social media apps, under the control of adversary countries to the U.S., are considered national security threats. If the platform is considered to be a risk, then app stores would have 180 days to remove the app, according to NBC News.

Lawmakers fear that the Chinese Communist Party is stealing and collecting data on American users through the app. However, TikTok is not directly mentioned in the bill, but several repre-

sentatives have referred to the app in comments they’ve made.

Gallagher issued a press release in which he said, “This is my message to TikTok: break up with the Chinese Communist Party or lose access to your American users.” TikTok has responded to the bill by posting a message to the app, where it encourages users to reach out to their representatives.

The message says, “Congress is planning a total ban of TikTok. This will damage millions of businesses, destroy the livelihoods of countless creators across the country, and deny artists an audience. Let Congress know what TikTok means to you and tell them to vote NO.”

TikTok is the number one entertainment app in Apple’s App Store and an estimated 170 million people have TikTok in the United States.

The use of social media in the professional field has also taken off, with many businesses using the app to reach a younger target audience.

Lauren Henry, a recent University of Central Oklahoma grad, is now a multimedia journalist for KTUL News Channel 8 in Tulsa.

Like many others, social media apps like

TikTok have been an additional tool to use for Henry.

“TikTok is another tool for journalists to use and not having access to it could very well limit what stories are brought to light,” Henry said. “On many occasions, I have seen footage posted straight to TikTok that inspired stories I’ve covered.”

TikTok often has content that has gone viral and ended up on the news. According to Henry, multiple news outlets referenced TikTok in their coverage of students licking their teacher’s toes at Deer Creek after the videos went viral.

Many news stations have been generating content and posting on TikTok and other social media platforms to generate more engagement.

“I think it would be a major hit in terms of engagement from younger audiences, especially if they aren’t seeing the content on the app they use the most,” Henry said.

After passing the House, the bill moves to the Senate, where its future will be decided.

“I’m not sure what will happen, but I believe there are other issues that should be addressed instead of TikTok usage,” Henry said.

TikTok’s California headquarters as seen on March 17, 2023 (AP NEWS/PROVIDED)

Ryan Pilat finishes a cube as the clock ticks down. (KELLY CLAYTON/THE VISTA)

MEN’S BASKETBALL

UCO - 65

Pitt State - 84

In the weekend’s MIAA postseason tournament, the sixth-seeded Bronchos caught the third-seeded Gorillas on the wrong night, because as a team PSU shot over 50% from the field and from three, and UCO could not find an answer. They end the 2024 season with a record of 20-11.

BASEBALL

March 9

UCO - 16

Newman - 1

UCO’s Carson Carpenter went nuclear, belting three home runs and six RBIs in his four-hit scoring spree, sparking UCO to a dominant win. They now move to 16-5 after game one in Wichita.

UCO - 2

Newman - 1 Orlando Gonzalez’s two-run home run in the fourth inning was all the ‘Chos needed top take game two. Despite having less hits than the Jets, UCO wins, moving to 17-5.

March 10

UCO - 5

Newman - 3 Carson Carpenter’s fourth homer of the weekend was one of 10 Broncho hits that elevated the team over Newman, giving UCO the weekend sweep. Now 18-5, Central will look to keep the momentum going later this week against rival Northeastern State.

MEN’S GOLF

March 5

UCO earned its fourth straight runner-up team finish, this time in Fort Smith, Arkansas, at the Hardscrabble Invitational. The team had three top-10 finishers: Jordan Wilson tied for fourth, shooting 215; Bennett Baldwin finished tied for seventh, shooting 216; and Dylan Henderson finished in ninth outright, shooting 218.

THUNDER

March 6

OKC - 128

Portland Trailblazers120

The young core of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, Chet Holmgren, and Josh Giddey combined to score a ridiculous 108 points as the Thunder heat up down the stretch. This win moves them to 43-19.

March 8

Miami Heat - 100

OKC - 107

SGA’s 37 points were enough to left the Thunder past the Heat in a defensive battle Friday night. Another monster scoring game for the Oklahoma City star as he continues his MVP campaign and the team moves to 44-19.

March 10

Memphis Grizzlies - 93

OKC - 124

A quiet 23 points from SGA were perfectly complemented by rookie Cason Wallace’s 22 points off the bench as the Thunder won big at home. Now 45-19, Oklahoma City has retaken the number one spot in the Western Conference.

Lady Bronchos dominate in ‘double-double header’ weekend

Bradie Gray Sports Editor

Over the weekend, the No. 12 Lady Broncho softball team hosted backto-back conference double headers against Washburn and Emporia State, and they now look like the team everyone expected them to be.

In Saturday’s game one against Washburn, Central jumped out early and never looked back. UCO scored one run in the first inning and three more runs in the second, taking a strong 4-1 lead early. The team would ride that lead until the sixth inning where, after another Washburn run, Emily Deramus hit Rylee Lemon in on a sacrifice fly and Terin Ritz would follow up with a home run for good measure, going on to win 6-2 in the opener.

Game two was a different story. The low scoring affair saw UCO go scoreless in the first four innings as Washburn grabbed a 1-0 lead. In the fifth, Central broke through. With one runner on, Ritz hit a long single to break the goose egg, then a couple batters

later Shayleigh Odom did the same thing, this time scoring Ritz and giving the lady ‘Chos the lead. That sequence would be the difference as the Ichabods could not find an answer.

Central won 2-1. UCO, now 14-6, sweeps a Washburn team that actually came into Edmond with a 19-5 record.

Day two against Emporia State was as good as the team has looked all year. In game one, a duo of UCO pitchers—Terin Ritz and Shelby Beard—held a very

good ESU team scoreless while a trio of UCO hitters—Ritz, Emily Deramus, and Tatum Long—all went yard, headlining a great 6-0 UCO win. The result pushed the team to 15 wins this season.

The last game of the weekend was probably the team’s best showing. Emporia State would tie the game at one run apiece in the top of the second, but Central would respond that inning with five runs of their own, making it 6-1, and in the third they would

score four more, making it 10-1. This scoring barrage was headlined by homers from Deramus and Odom. In the process, UCO pitcher Kaylee Bradley earned her first win on the mound this season.

The great weekend showing moved the team to 16-6 and 4-0 in conference play. The team will look to extend their nine-game win streak in this weekend’s MIAA/NSIC Crossover event in Pittsburgh, Kansas.

UCO Rowing opens 2024 splitting against Division I opponents

Bradie Gray Sports Editor

The No. 3 UCO rowing team kicked off the 2024 season going 3-3 in races against two Division I opponents, Creighton and Tulsa.

Each matchup featured three races:

Varsity 8+, which features eight varsity rowers in each boat; Varsity 4+, which features four varsity rowers in each boat; and 2V8+, which is an abbreviated second team varsity, and this race has eight rowers per boat. All three races were 1,500 meters long. Central held their own and then

some. In the Varsity 8+ race saw Tulsa win by just under ten seconds, 7:06.6 to UCO’s 7:16.5. Central led most of the race, but Tulsa found a way to get a second win and pull ahead in the last third of the race. Creighton closely brought up third place, finishing with a time of 7:19.6.

In the 2V8+, Tulsa stood out quite a bit more. Finishing with a time of 7:22.6, Tulsa let UCO and Creighton have a fight for second place over 40 seconds behind. Central would edge out the Blue Jays for the silver, winning 8:09.6 to 8:11.8. Finally in the Varsity 4+, UCO was right back in it. A close race throughout, Tulsa scraped by with the weekend sweep, crossing the finish line just seconds before the Lady Bronchos, 8:10.7 to 8:15.4. Creighton would finish last again, with a time of 8:33.0.

After a very solid start to the season, UCO will look to earn another national championship in 2024. Their next event will be in two weeks as the team travels to Seattle, Washington, to participate in the Falcon Regatta.

Vallerie wins All-American honors at Division II championships

UCO track and field wrapped up their indoor season rooting for freshman teammate Treasure Vallerie as she competed at the NCAA Division II Indoor Track and Field National Championships.

Vallerie competed in the 200 and 400 meter dash. In the 400 meters, she broke her own school record during the MIAA Conference Indoor Championships just weeks ago. She

placed third place in that meet which qualified her for nationals. She placed the same in the 200 meters at the conference meet, qualifying her for both events. At nationals, the young Broncho standout did more than just hold her own. In the 400 meters, her best event, she proceeded to break her own school record yet again. After running a 55.40 at the conference meet, she ran a stellar 54.79. This was good enough for second in her heat and a 12th place finish overall, earning her

All-American honors in the event. She was one of only two freshmen in the event to receive this honor.

In the 200 meters, she finished with a time of 24.85, only good enough for 20th place overall.

The freshman from San Antonio’s future, as well as the team’s future, has rarely ever looked this bright. They now move their efforts to the outdoor track and field season. They are set to fire the starting gun this weekend at the Bill Schmidt Invite meet at the University of North Texas.

Shelby Beard pitches against Washburn. (CENTRAL SPORTS/PROVIDED)

UCO rowing started its 2024 season at 3-3. (CENTRAL SPORTS/PROVIDED)

Bradie Gray Sports Editor

Treasure Vallerie wrapped up her indoor season on Friday by earning All-American honors at the 2024 NCAA Division II Indoor Track & Field National Championships at Pittsburg State. (CENTRAL SPORTS/PROVIDED)

When pulling over speeding cars, police do not see red

Killian Parsons

Contributing Writer

Does having a red vehicle make you more likely to get pulled over or have higher insurance rates? It seems every driver, at one point or another, has heard this myth, but could police be targeting vehicles based on their color, or was this just a scheme devised by parents to keep their kids away from sportier cars?

The origins of the myth remain unknown, but the legend of red cars being in the scopes of prying police eyes has its roots in some logic. Red cars stand out more on a busy highway than duller colors, and if matched with an equally flashy body style, it will only add to its draw. Some drivers even speculate that some sort of color optical illusion can take place, giving the appearance that red painted cars are driving faster. As such, many

view this as a form of illegal vehicle profiling, one where more tickets mean a higher insurance payment, but it might not be so simple.

The rumor was seemingly disproven by the American Auto Insurance company’s own findings back in 2020, showing that white cars are actually at the top of the ticket pile.

However, there is some conflicting data. A story by CNET’s Brian Cooley, using the same information as the AAI poll, stated that there was at least some truth in the myth. While white cars were indeed the number one for tickets, they also are the most popular color across all vehicles. By correcting the statistics for the amount of tickets versus amount on the road, red was indeed a massive magnet for the police, even taking back that top spot.

In Oklahoma, there seems to be some good news for owners of crimson cars.

“What we look for more isn’t color, but things that may point to you being an at-risk driver.” Said Salena Holle, a State Farm agent. “This can be things like your age, or health… things not associated at all with your vehicle.”

“I heard that [myth] decades ago, but I haven’t seen it come up in my time here,” said another Oklahoma insurance agent, Bill Hawthorne.

Snopes interviewed a Florida Highway Patrol Officer, Sgt. Thomas Miller, about the red car question.

“It’s not the color of the car that matters, but how fast it’s going,” Miller said.

While there seems to be a steady consensus, it might be best for any potential car buyer out there to contact your local insurance company and get a better picture on just what your car’s color may be costing you.

Daylight Saving Time springs forward, but some states want to fall back

Tanner Pipins Contributing Writer

Daylight saving time started on Sunday, but if many states were to get their way, it would be for the last time.

In the United States, every state except Arizona and Hawaii observes daylight saving time. However, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL), state lawmakers have considered at least 650 bills and resolutions in recent years to establish year-round daylight saving time, in an effort to put the biannual changing of the clocks to an end.

But as many states have realized, the problem lies within the solution. State lawmakers are grappling over the debate on whether their state should adopt permanent daylight saving time or permanent standard time. Permanent standard time provides more sunlight in the morning, whereas permanent daylight saving has more sunlight in the evening. Nearly a dozen states have introduced bills to observe year-round permanent standard time.

Conversely, lawmakers in 19 states, including Oklahoma, have presented bills or passed resolutions to provide for year-round daylight saving time in the last five years. In order for this to happen, Congress would have to act before states are able to adopt full-time DST. Under the Uniform Time Act of 1966, states are prohibited from “independently changing time zones or the length of daylight saving time.” However, they do have the ability to “exempt themselves from daylight saving time,” but it does not allow the permanent observance of DST.

In some cases, legislation would also require one or more neighboring states to adopt full-time DST before the original state could. The U.S. Department of Transportation is responsible for the oversight of DST and the only chance of change occurring would be if the state or local government would be able to provide detailed information on why such change would “benefit the convenience of commerce.”

In 1918, the United States adopted the practice after observing the Germans successfully conserving energy as a war effort during World War I. By spending an extra hour outside, it was thought that less electricity would be used and ultimately more money could be saved. Many changes have been made along the way, mostly shifting the start and end dates of the practice. Today, many Americans do not see the benefit of having the twice-yearly clock switching.

So will daylight saving time end soon? In 2022, the Senate unanimously passed a bill known as the Sunshine Protection Act that would make daylight savings time permanent, but time ran out to vote on the proposal in the House and it did not become law. A newer version of the bill was reintroduced in March 2023. It currently remains in committee in the House and Senate. Until that is addressed, most Americans can anticipate getting that hour of sleep back when this year’s daylight saving time ends on Nov. 3, 2024.

There is no link between having a red car and getting speeding tickets according to Oklahoma police. (AP NEWS/PROVIDED)

Substance and nostalgia lurk underneath Antonoff’s ‘Bleachers’

Zak Royka Reporter

Proudly New-Jerseyian indie pop outfit Bleachers dropped its latest (and self-titled) set of tunes this past Friday, continuing its tradition of radical innovation in the genre of sad 1980s movie nostalgia music. Look closely and the composition starts before the first track with frontman Jack Antonoff epitomizing cool uncle energy on the cover while pulling his best Fonzie leaning on the back of some variety of mid-1960’s Cadillac. This album smells like half-grain leather and suppressed anxiety, paying homage from the word go to both vintage Bruce Springsteen and contemporaries like The Killers.

There’s an uncanny charm in the distant guitars and booming vocals of “I Am Right On Time.” Bleachers have always utilized modern production techniques while aiming for older tones, but this track’s production slips just short of that goal, falling into the strange land of “almost ’80s,” which continues perfectly with the next track.

“Modern Girl,” unlike the opener, nails this uncanny combination

of sound and soul with constant cultural references and references to the band itself. It pulls together into a cohesive Springsteen homage, echoing Billy Joel’s “We

Didn’t Start the Fire” without the head-spinning sociopolitical bite. This starts a trend on the album of nailing a certain brand of faux-’80s. It’s like disintegrating GM leatherette in a Chevy Celebrity and sun-damaged shutter shades: it’s not flattering, but it works.

One of the strongest features of this album are the squealing transcendent tones of saxophonist Evan Smith, with the small details elevating the track “Me Before You” to greatness. “Me Before You” pulls back in the distant style of “I Am Right On Time,” but with more purpose — and it works. The entire song plays like an afterimage of a sunny day. The second half of “Bleachers” gets significantly more introspective, with the song “Alma Mater” playing heavy in the background as Antonoff bares his heart to the audience. With reference to a relationship of extremes and music to match, Tom Waits’ “Heartattack And Vine” being called out specifically (good taste!) This track marks a turning point where the pop takes a back seat to the indie, and it’s nice to hear.

“Tiny Moves” acts as a response to both Elton John’s “Tiny Dancer” and The Killers’ “Smile Like You Mean It.” It plays out showing a tender and supportive narrator commenting on the big effects of the smallest changes in life and how to keep stable in a changing world.

Skipping a few great tunes, “Hey Joe” acts as a reset to the whole album, with new lyrics to the famous rock standard telling a uniquely modern story. Talking about trauma and war and revolution and generational tension never sounded so small and easy, this track shows how good a band Bleachers really are.

Bleachers’ “Bleachers” kicks butt like New Jersey itself often claims. It’s a great album, and the uncomfortableness from the early tracks is just a stumble on the road to greatness. With wonderful instrumentation and plenty of style, this album is sure to stand the test of time at least as long as the artists it’s emulating.

LISTEN UP FOR LIVE SHOWS

MARCH

Rene Vaca, March 13, Bricktown Comedy Club, 409 E. California, bricktowncomedy.com

Sunny Day Real Estate, March 14, Beer City Music Hall, 1141 NW Second, beercitymusichall.com

Canterbury Voices, “For All the Saints,” March 14, Civic Center Music Hall, 201 N. Walker, okcciviccenter.com.

Clancy Jones, March 14, Resonant Head, 400 SW 25, resonanthead.com Katt Williams, March 15, Paycom Center, 100 W. Reno, paycomcenter. com

Bruce Bruce, March 15-17, Bricktown Comedy Club, 409 E. California, bricktowncomedy.com

The Damn Quails, March 15, Diamond Ballroom, 8001 S. Eastern, dcfconcerts.com

South Austin Moonlighters, March 15, The Blue Door, 2805 N. McKinley, bluedoorokc.com

Kolton Moore and the Clever Few, March 15, Beer City Music Hall, 1141 NW Second, beercitymusichall.com

Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, March 15, Tower Theatre, 425 NW 23rd, towertheatreokc.com

Nabihah Iqbal, March 16, Ponyboy, 423 NW 23rd, towertheatreokc. com

Zzzahara, March 16, Resonant Head, 400 SW 25, resonanthead.com

Voivod and Prong, March 16, Diamond Ballroom, 8001 S. Eastern, dcfconcerts.com

Jay Leno and Rita Rudner, March 16, Riverwind Casino, 1544 Highway 9, riverwind.com

Nick Shoulders and the Okay Crawdad, March 16, Beer City Music Hall, 1141 NW Second, beercitymusichall.com

Vortxz, March 18, Resonant Head, 400 SW 25, resonanthead.com

Drake and J. Cole, March 18-19, Paycom Center, 100 W. Reno, paycomcenter.com

Jonathan Richman, March 19, The Blue Door, 2805 N. McKinley, bluedoorokc.com

Dale Hollow, March 19, Ponyboy, 423 NW 23rd, towertheatreokc.com

Hannah Wicklund, March 20, Beer City Music Hall, 1141 NW Second, beercitymusichall.com

Otis VCR, March 20, Resonant Head, 400 SW 25, resonanthead.com

Michael Rapaport, March 21-23, Bricktown Comedy Club, 409 E. California, bricktowncomedy.com

Black Flag, March 21, Diamond Ballroom, 8001 S. Eastern, dcfconcerts. com

Johnny Manchild and the Poor Bastards, March 22, Beer City Music Hall, 1141 NW Second, beercitymusichall.com

Jim Norton, March 22, Tower Theatre, 425 NW 23rd, towertheatreokc. com

Queensrÿche, March 23, Tower Theatre, 425 NW 23rd, towertheatreokc.com

Wheatus, March 23, The Blue Door, 2805 N. McKinley, bluedoorokc. com

Jim Gaffigan, March 23, Riverwind Casino, 1544 Highway 9, riverwind. com

Saxsquatch: Bigfoot Rave, March 26, Beer City Music Hall, 1141 NW Second, beercitymusichall.com

Arnez J, March 28-30, Bricktown Comedy Club, 409 E. California, bricktowncomedy.com

Dylan Marlowe, March 28, Beer City Music Hall, 1141 NW Second, beercitymusichall.com

Amy Lavere and Will Sexton, March 28, The Blue Door, 2805 N. McKinley, bluedoorokc.com

Kountry Wayne, March 29, Criterion, 500 E. Sheridan, criterionokc. com

Not.greenday, March 29, Resonant Head, 400 SW 25, resonanthead. com

Bleachers is led by Jack Antonoff, producer of Taylor Swift, Lorde, Lana Del Rey and more. (BLEACHERS RECORDING COMPANY/PROVIDED)

Hannah Wicklund performs March 20 at Beer City Music Hall. HANNAH WICKLUND/ PROVIDED)

The fourth Bleachers album is self-titled.. (BLEACHERS RECORDING COMPANY/ PROVIDED)