The East Texan: October 28, 2010

The East Tex an S TUDENT NE WSPAPER OF TE X AS A& M UNIVERSIT Y- COMMERCE SINCE 1915

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life to zombies

Commissioner race heats up james bright editor

The East Texan is proud to bring you its second annual Halloween edition. We extended the paper by four pages in an effort to give you the best holiday experience possible.

With the mid-term elections just around the corner, races are starting to heat up, and the quest for the county commissioner of Precinct 4 is no exception.

Incumbent Jim Latham (D) said his primary goal if re-

elected is to continue developing an environment in which businesses can grow and provide good jobs for citizens. He said he would look at developing the East loop area in Commerce.

“This would eliminate the problem of students crossing major highways to reach classrooms or sporting events,”

he said.

Republican candidate for the county commissioner of Precinct 4 Frank Janda said he is also seeking money to help Commerce.

“I would like to lessen the load of the local taxpayers by seeking federal grant money for our infrastructure needs, including roads and fire protec-

tion,” he said.

The only difficult task about getting grant money is finding it, according to Janda.

“While our current commissioner says there is no grant money available, in neighboring Hopkins County, Cletis Milsap, in the same amount of time Jim Latham has been on

Ah, hail no!

Weather

Thursday H: 73 L: 44

Friday H: 73 L: 45

Saturday H: 79 L: 62

GRAYSON GRAVES / THE EAST TEXAN

A rain storm sweeps through Commerce during the Homecoming game on Oct. 24 delaying the football game several hours. Storms ravaged Hunt County throughout the weekend, canceling many of the Homecoming events.

Massive storm ruins events, game Sound off Why is voting important?

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Alyx Davidson justin vitz Mitzi y’barbo adam troxtell wednesday

The Hot Dog Spirit Rally took place around the North Patio of the Sam Rayburn Student Center on Wednesday, Oct. 20 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

As a part of Homecoming Week at Texas A&M UniversityCommerce, the rally boosted school spirit and enthusiasm for the Homecoming football game on Sunday versus Southwestern Oklahoma.

“This is my third year at the rally and I think it’s a great opportunity for students to gather and get excited about homecoming,” A&M-Commerce President

Dan Jones said.

The pep band and school cheerleaders performed cheers including “Let’s Go Lions” and “Let’s Go Big Blue” to pump up the crowd.

“It’s nice to see students with such great school spirit,” sophomore cheerleader Hugo Macias said. “I love being the one to get them energized.”

Volleyball Head Coach Craig Case, women’s soccer Head Coach Neil Piper and football Head Coach Guy Morriss spoke at the rally. They offered a few words of encouragement for student participation in sporting events and wished good luck on the football team for their upcoming game.

“We still have a meaningful game to play and we can still

have a winning season, but we need your help this weekend to defeat Southwest Oklahoma team,” Morriss said. “Let’s show them we still have a lot of school spirit at A&M-Commerce.”

Also at the rally, winners for the Window/Banner/Door competition were announced.

Out of 30 plus participants there were nine winners from various categories in the 2010 Window/ Banner/Door contest. Judging categories included best overall design, most creative design and best depiction of this year’s Homecoming theme “Now and Then.”

First-place winners in the window competition included Residential Living and Learning, COEHS Mentor Center and CaribSA. Winners in the banner

See STORM page 3

See CANDIDATES page 3

Enrollment increase leads to RA shortage Nick bailey staff writer

With A&M-Commerce’s student enrollment breaking the 10,000 mark this year, administrators have been having trouble accommodating all of the new students seeking oncampus housing.

Hall Director of Smith and Berry Halls Chavilah Witt said many new students were sent to Smith and Berry Halls.

“We take in pretty much every student who comes in who is not signed up for housing,” Witt said.

“So while most other halls have a roster and know exactly who’s coming in and where those people are going, we don’t.”

In an attempt to remedy this situation, administrators decided to open Berry Hall. With five out of eleven buildings in West Halls torn down, and Cowling Hall closed for remodeling, many students had to be funneled to Smith and Berry Halls.

“This year we had over 100 students walk in without an assignment,” Witt said.

The downside to this change is that the increased number of residents require more assistance. Currently, both halls are short-handed on residential assistants (RA’s), with some of them having to work both halls.

“We only expected to use two buildings in Berry, and right now we are using four and a half,” Witt said. “We didn’t expect as many students to walk up as we had.”

As students continue to move in, problems began to emerge within the staff, as one RA stepped down from the position because of family problems, leaving Smith Hall without an RA for the third floor of the men’s side of the building.

“I have seven RA’s on staff right now, and I am short one RA right now, so we started with one person missing,” Witt said. “We had someone hired, and he had a family emergency come up, so he wasn’t able to come.”

Witt is determined to not hire just anyone. The candidate must seem like a good fit for the rest of See SHORTAGE page 3

Page 2

OPINION

Thursday, Oct. 28, 2010

www.theeasttexan.com

Writer diagnoses Writer tries to “cope” with stress apathy in voters CHANCELLOR MILLS OPINION EDITOR

So, the other day my friend asked me if I wanted his leftover guacamole and I stabbed him with a butter knife.

Has this ever happened to you? If it has, it probably happened for one of two reasons: either you are just a [slang term for anus], or you have let all of your frustration and aggression build up, just to explode on somebody over something relatively inconsequential.

For me, it was the latter, and he had it coming – he knows I don’t like guacamole! Anyway, I have found myself in situations like these durWriter Adam Troxtell explains why many people may not vote in the upcoming elections. ing the last month or two since the semester startADAM TROXTELL idea that so long as you ed. So, I decided to offer SPORTS EDITOR are on the Republican ticket in Texas, winning an some tips to my peers to help take the edge off and As in 2008, I find election is fairly simple. myself in a contradictory Then again, what if I were keep your frustrated aggression at bay. situation. With midterm to not want a particular One good way to let elections approaching, GOP candidate representoff some steam is workI have now realized my ing me? It can happen. ing out. Working out is opportunity to take part in In the process of forreally good because while one of the most treasured mulating this thought, the you get your pump on, American values has come real reason behind my lack your body is releasing and gone. of desire to register to vote these nifty little chemicals I am not registered to hit me: I don’t want to called endorphins.

Endorvote. It’s not that I don’t have to choose. My family phins are kind of like the want to. One of my biggest is very conservative based, body’s own, homemade interests is social justice very Republican, and I’ve for people in developing been raised on their ideals. opiates in the sense that they function to allevicountries, and the right Over time, however, I’ve ate pain as well as give to vote is one of those justried to see things from you an overall sense tices. I am enraged to find both sides, and considelections have been rigged ered there are good things of wellbeing. Pumping or people are turned and bad things offered on iron, running, cycling, swimming and so on, away from voting booths either end of the political because they belong to spectrum. a certain tribe or vote a But, when it comes certain way. time to actually pick one But, when it comes to side over the other, I’m When we initially me using my civil right afraid of the implications. assigned one of our to choose who governs What if I regret my choice? reporters a story over my country, I cannot gain What would my parents the massive amounts enough motivation, and or grandparents think if I of bird poop around really have no explanation. actually voted for a Democampus, we had no idea All I have are assumpcrat? For so long that has what it would actually tions as to why this voting been the “other” way, but turn up. apathy exists. what if I find, even at one We figured that this My first guess is that brief point, it is the way had to be a problem I just have no faith in for me? that has cropped up in the people who are ever So, I’ve remained hidthe past for the univerconsidered main contendden, riding the fence and sity, but little did we ers on ballots. Let’s be only leaning one way or know that the facility honest, this country is run the other here or there, but by incumbents who only never jumping off even for maintenance staff has consider their constituena moment. This has been and are currently cies when November apto change. aware of the problem, proaches. They are career Consider this my and have protocols to politicians, and the interest promise to vote in the 2012 deal with the matter. of lining their own pockets presidential election. It is It’s good to know often overtakes the need to unrealistic for me to think that the university is fulfill promises. my continued apathy actually paying attenThen again, election toward the U.S. voting systion and working to fix time gives us the chance tem will continue to leave an issue that concerns to be a part of a moveme happy, even if my vote so many students. We ment to get this type of doesn’t necessarily make also applaud their use politician out of office. The a difference. If anything, I of non-lethal methods odds of organizing enough need to vote just because I voters in this way are care about all the people in of relocating the birds unfavorable in the face of the world who do not even not only to preserve the safety of the birds, but an increasingly apathetic have that right extended the safety of the stuyouth culture, but to not to them. dents and faculty try is to simply give in.

So, why are you still as well.

So, this explanation has to here reading? I’m not While it’s comfortbe knocked down in the going to TELL you how I queue of options. vote. Even I don’t know ing to know that there My lack of enthusiasm that yet. Baby steps, you is nothing to fear from may come down to the know? Baby steps. the bird feces, it’s even

Columnist Chance Mills offers tips to help alleviate pent-up aggression that college students experience.

all function to release endorphins in the body and take the edge off, but they do not always help relieve frustration or pent up aggression. To relieve aggression, I recommend finding a gym with a punching bag or something that you can beat the snot out of while imagining that the back is your parent or your pimp or whoever is making you mad.

Another idea is to take up some kind of hobby that will distract you from your woes, while also allowing you to relieve some of your pent up aggression. I personal-

ly recommend becoming a crack marksman with a rifle. This is another instance in which you can look at your target and visualize it as the source of your frustration, and just go nuts. And if that doesn’t work, you can always set your sights on the ACTUAL source of your frustration.

This next method of overcoming frustration is a bit of a touchy topic and it rhymes with “smashtursmation.” It’s common for people – especially college-age students – to come across a bit of sexual frustration, which can ultimately lead to

deep-seated aggression.

So, if you find yourself in a “dry spell,” I recommend you close the shades, light candles, put on some Yanni and “do the Han Solo.”

And if all else fails, do what I do: drive out to Harry Hines in Dallas and hunt down and mercilessly kill the hooker or two that you see. It’s perfect in every aspect.

You get to relieve your built up aggression – and your sexual frustration (if that’s your thing) – while committing a victimless crime (it’s victimless because hookers aren’t people).

Editorial: University commended for efforts in bird poop clean-up

Quotes out of Context “False sense of security. I love it,” Caleb Slinkard, Managing Editor.

“You just open your mouth and let it slide down your throat,” James Bright, Editor.

The East Texan, official student newspaper of Texas A&M University-Commerce, is published 12 times per semester during the Fall and Spring by students in reporting and editing classes. Content is solely the responsibility of the student editors and writers. The comments and views expressed in The East Texan do not necessarily reflect the beliefs of other students, staff, faculty, administration, or the Board of Trustees. The East Texan is located inside the Journalism building on the east side of campus in room 113. Single copies are available in Journalism 113 for an additional 25 cents.

Letters to the Editor are welcome and should be limited to 250 words. They will not be edited for spelling, grammar and libelous or malicious statements. We reserve the right to refuse publication. Letters should be typed or e-mailed and must include a signature, classification (grade level) and telephone number. Mailing address is The East Texan, P.O. Box 4011 Commerce, Texas 75428.

the university’s protocols will not likely be a permanent fix, it is clear that facility maintenance

is fighting a losing battle against the feces.

However, we want to encourage them to keep

up the work their doing to make our campus a clean, poop-free place for learning.

more comforting to know the university cares enough to try to clean it up every week before some idiot crawls around in it and actually does get some kind of avian flu.

Given the fact that

The East East Tex Texan an The Established 1915 JAMES BRIGHT Editor Caleb slinkard Managing Editor

JARED WATSON digital media Editor

ADAM TROXTELL Sports Editor

kat huffines Graphics Editor

CHANCELLOR MILLs opinion editor

MEGAN CAREY ART SCENE Editor

jasmin brown copy desk chief

stephanie norman campus life editor

ARIELLE MCMAHON STAFF CARTOONIST

CONTACT

903-886-5985

www.theeasttexan.com

theeasttexan@gmail.com facebook.com/pages/The-East-Texan-Online twitter.com/TheEastTexan ADVERTISING: chancellor mills

214-564-0633

Fred Stewart Faculty Adviser fred_stewart@tamu-commerce.edu

news

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Thursday, Oct. 28, 2010

Page 3

...storms cause homecoming delays, cancelations CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

contest were Enrollment Management, the Registrar’s Office and Whitley Hall. The door Mitdesign winners were VP for Advancement, the Sociology and Criminal Justice Society and the Catholic Student Organization.

Election Board Chair Bridgette Miles took stage to announce the choices for Homecoming Court. Candidates for Homecoming King were Andy Kroll, Phillip London, Christopher D. Hall and Fadhl Al-matari. Nominations for Homecoming Queen included Grace Lawson, Danna Dougan, LaShara Jefferson and Carla Montanares.

The choice for king and queen were announced Sunday at the game, with Phillip London and Danna Dougan winning.

“I am happy to represent my sorority,” Dougan said, “it’s great to be a part of something that we do every year.”

Free spirit buttons were handed out and homecoming shirts were on sale for $5.

Interested parties can contact a member of CAB Crew for t-shirts or spirit buttons.

FRIDAY William Leonidas Mayo died 93 years ago and on Saturday, Oct. 23, a group of faculty and students gathered to honor his life.

The Mayo Memorial service has been held the last five decades at A&M -Commerce on the site of Mayo’s grave. The service consists of an invocation, a group of remarks about Mayo and A&M-Commerce, a moment of silence for alumni who have passed away since the last service, and the playing of “Taps,” which was per-

formed by Associate Provost Dr. Randy McBroom.

Retired University Archivist Dr. James Conrad moderated the service and A&MCommerce Honors College student Joanna Firth gave the invocation.

“The ceremony is a very important way to honor our founder,” Firth said. “It’s very important for alumni and current students to realize what the university stands for and what it was created on.”

Conrad gave facts about Mayo’s life and spoke of his character during the service.

“William L. Mayo devoted his entire energies and talents to making this the best possible university,” Conrad said.

“It seems that there wasn’t anything he wouldn’t do, including teaching and painting dorm rooms for incoming freshmen.”

A&M-Commerce President Dan Jones also gave remarks during the service.

“This university exists,” Jones said, “because of the vision and the foresight of a remarkable individual, Professor Mayo. We’re all grateful to Professor Mayo for the legacy he put in place and a great 121 years of this tremendous university.”

The annual Homecoming Bonfire, featuring a fireworks show and live band, was postponed Friday due to inclement weather.

The fireworks show and performance by David Whiteman and the Love Chocolates was rescheduled to take place prior to the Lions’ last home football game on Nov. 5. The bonfire was put on hold because of high winds in the area.

Assistant Director of Aquatics Tyson Kehler headed up the bonfire preparations.

Pallets and bonfire supplies were being collected two to three weeks prior to the event.

Members of the Homecoming Committee were constructing the bonfire at the Cain Sports Complex.

According to A&M-Commerce Assistant Director of Student Activities and Special Events Deepti Vanguri, the bonfire is one of the longest standing traditions of Homecoming week.

“We are expecting between 400 and 500 people to attend,” Vanguri said on Thursday.

Nominees for Homecoming King and Queen were to be introduced during the night, along with a “Yell like Hell” spirit competition between campus organizations. Groups who registered were to create chants and cheers for their organizations to correspond with the Homecoming theme “2010: Now and Then.” The winner of this spirit event was to be announced during the half time of the football game, before crowning of the King and Queen.

The fireworks show was scheduled to coincide with the women’s soccer game on Friday night. Each time the Lady Lions scored a goal, fireworks were to be shot off. Long-time partner Lone Star Fireworks Productions will prepare a show on Nov. 5 for the final home game of the Lions vs.

East Central. A special finale is planned for the fireworks show, but it is “top secret,” according to Vanguri. The Department of Campus Life and Student Development will sponsor the fireworks show.

SATURDAY On a weekend full of weather impacted events, the tailgate party for the A&M-

Commerce Homecoming football game against Southwestern Oklahoma State was no different.

The event had to be moved inside to the Sam Rayburn Student Center due to the impending weather, but this seems to have not dampened the spirit of attendees.

“I think it’s a bit different of an experience,” junior political science major Sam Ijeh said. “It’s still got the feeling, you still have fun, so it’s cool.”

Like other events affected by the rain, the decision to move the tailgate party was made as a precautionary measure well ahead of its scheduled start. The bottom floor of the SRSC was full of booths and tables set up by various campus organizations.

“It was made sometime last evening, early this morning,” Chair of School Spirit, Community, and Families for the Campus Activities Board Brittany Whitaker said.

“We thought it would be in a conference room, but we were trying to do our idea of the walking mall. This way you move your way through the student center.”

The Club was full of students taking in the free food and drinks provided by various organizations. Whitaker said she thought being inside provided a somewhat advantageous experience for students.

“A lot of people don’t like to be outside, and the last tailgate it was kind of hot,” she said. “In here it’s a cool atmosphere, we have the book store where you can get food and drinks, we have live entertainment in the club, so I think it was a very good decision and all worked out for the best.”

Freshman English major Christine York has been to all the tailgating parties this

season, and said she did not notice too much of a difference.

“It’s about the same, just a different location,” she said.

“It’s the same atmosphere, the same stuff goes on. Except the band is not here to play, that’s really the only difference.”

Attendees of the tailgate party can enjoy many things, but Ijeh singled out one aspect he took advantage of.

“I love the free stuff,” he said. “I got this free shirt, this collective button, and free food, of course. I like free.”

Despite the majority of the tailgate party taking place in the SRSC, not all organizations set up their tables and tents there. Kappa Sigma fraternity decided to stay outside in the original place the tailgating was to be held, behind the south end of the stadium.

“We try to keep a tradition,” Kappa Sigma President Bryson Moore said. “Every one of the games so far we’ve been out on this lawn behind the stadium, except for the first game where we were in the Science Building parking lot.

We wanted to keep the tradition so all of the guys would know where we’re at, it’s an easier spot to get the letters out here, plus this is already where I told all of the alumni we were going to be.”

Moore said he felt the decision was the right one, as it helped the fraternity come closer as a group.

“It’s neater for the brotherhood part,” he said. “It’s kind of just us, exclusive, so it kind of helps. It is fun being over with everybody else, but at the same time when it comes to hanging out with all of your friends it’s neat us being the only people out here.”

Graphic created by James Bright Incumbent Jim Latham (D) and his opponent Frank Janda (R) have both said they would work with the Commerce city government in an effort to improve not only the roads, but day-to-day life in and around the town.

...candidates prepare for upcoming election CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

the commissioner’s court, has raised over $14 million of grant money for his county,” Janda said. “Hunt County has not been active in pursuing grant money and if elected, I and Commissioner-Elect Jay Atkins will work to change that.”

Janda said that although he will be searching for infrastructure grant money, he will not ignore other types of grants that come his way.

“Just because you are a county commissioner doesn’t mean you can’t be an overseer of our roads,” he said. “A good commissioner will be active in pursuing resources, money, and whatever it takes for our towns and communities to thrive and prosper.”

Another area where Janda said he would like to contribute money is in healthcare, and see the completion of a new hospital by 2014 and a minor care facility

for the university.

“A much-needed hospital for Commerce would enhance and complement the recently announced plans by A&MCommerce to begin offering a complete nursing program to students next year,” he said.

Latham said he plans to eliminate some of the rock roads in Precinct 4 by continuing a program that uses recycled asphalt in various applications.

The drug issue in Hunt County is another issue Latham wishes to address if re-elected.

“I will work to provide more support for our law enforcement agencies to fight the massive drug problem that exists in our county and increased support for our other first responders as they will need all the assistance we can afford to provide as our county grows,” he said.

Working with the city government is another one of Latham’s

primary goals. He said that in the last year, Precinct 4 entered into an agreement to assist Commerce’s Parks and Recreation in an effort to overhaul Park Street City Park.

Connecting all of North Texas is a major concern of Latham’s. He said he wants to see the rail service come to Precinct 4.

“High speed rail from the Metroplex to the Greenville and Commerce area would vastly improve our ability to increase our enrollment in the university, provide connecting commuter lines to the Dallas area and decrease our dependence on fossil fuels,” he said. “I believe this is our transportation future.”

Janda said he would like to see a better relationship between the city governments and the county commissioners.

Read the rest at theeasttexan.com

(Top to bottom) Berry and Smith Halls have received an influx of students because of the recent increase in student enrollment. These changes, coupled with the loss of an RA earlier in the semester, have left the residence halls short on RA’s.

...shortage affects residents CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

the staff.

“I want to know that these are people who are friendly, reliable, consistent, and so one,” Witt said. “I want to know that the person will fit with the staff. If we don’t have staff that can work well together, we won’t be able to help our students.”

There are currently seven RA’s to serve roughly 500 residents, which makes their jobs rather difficult. How-

ever, Witt said all of her RA’s on staff are doing a great job at handling the situation, and she is working to find students to fill the open RA positions for next semester.

“I want to go into the second semester with a full staff,” Witt said.

“It’s going to happen as soon as I’m able to complete the interview process and the paperwork. Then I can hire them and begin the training.”

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Ca mpus Life

Thursday, Oct. 28

www.theeasttexan.com

Campus group targets science majors RACHEL BAILEY STAFF WRITER

The student-founded organization Student Healthcare and Outreach Society (SHOS) was created to help pre-med and science-related majors achieve goals and pursue upper level degrees.

“SHOS provides lots of service opportunities,” junior biology major and SHOS treasurer Katie Money said. “It exposes you to events related to the field and helps to build a resume for medical school.”

The organization, which is in its second semester at A&MCommerce, is designed to target students who major in medical or science-related fields.

Will Lian and Jeffrey Sun, Honors College students at A&M-Commerce, came up with the idea to help pre-med, pre-pt and other pre-professional students.

“The organization is about networking,” sophomore biology and chemistry major and SHOS president Will Lian said.

“It helps to form a social network of students with similar majors.”

There are currently 40 paying members in the SHOS organization.

The $20 dues to remain a member are paid annually and include a t-shirt for the organization.

Because of SHOS, students are able to build connections with others sharing their passions.

“It helps you to meet people,” sophomore biology major and SHOS historian Jessica Meyer said.

“Not only does it provide people as friends, but also tutors. You can learn from older members who might have taken your current courses before.

It’s a great resource.”

Even though it is relatively new to campus, they have held several functions both on and off campus.

In the spring of 2010, members of the organization attended the Bodies exhibit and Relay for Life and visited nursing homes.

They held a blood drive for the university and also hosted a free CPR training and certification day.

“By being exposed to things relative to the field, you can find out more about what it is that you actually want to do,” Meyer said.

The organization plans to take a trip this fall to South Eastern Medical Center for a tour of the facilities to learn about the different medical fields operating within the center. “[South Eastern Medical Center] is a place where some of us could potentially go to medical school,” Lian said. “So the tour will be beneficial.”

Member of SHOS must maintain a 3.0 GPA, pay annual dues and, according to Lian, be genuinely interested in the field.

Those interested in obtaining further information on the SHOS organization can contact any of the officers at SHOS.tamu@gmail.com.

A&M-Commerce senior Andy Kroll leaves Prairie Crossing ready for class. The residence hall will host a Halloween party on the top floor of the parking garage on Oct. 29.

Alpha Gamma Rho members, (L-R) Doug Weir and John Garrett compete in the recent Redneck Games held at the arena at A&M-Commerce’s Equine Center.

Equine Center: unique experience MEGAN CAREY ART SCENE EDITOR Unlike many other areas of study on campus, there is more to Agricultural and Equine Science than just a desk and a book.

This is due largely in part to the Equine Center, which offers both agriculture and non-agriculture majors hands-on experience with horses, and a chance to build on their knowledge of the care, health and handling of horses. “[The Equine Center’s] main purpose is for the equine classes,” Lecturer of Equine Sciences Lindsay Walton said. “We have both an equine science minor and an equine study minor that I added last year. Due to the overwhelming interest in equine classes by students of other majors, I added the equine studies minor, which is for any major.”

The Equine Center is located at the A&MCommerce Educational Farm and Ranch off Sate Highway 50. It consists of two barns and arenas, round pens, and many horse runs and pastures.

The Equine Center used to share its location with the cattle barns, but when Walton took over the program in fall 2007, she immediately made some changes.

“We got the cattle barns built in a separate spot in 2008,” Walton said, “so that it was solely the equine center and no longer had to be shared with cattle. Until then, [it] was the livestock center so it

was multi-purpose.”

The Equine Center is used for many activities outside the realm of the university, such as summer camps for children, trail rides, arena ride nights, the Redneck Horse Games and the boarding of horses.

The center is also used for the Equine Club, a student organization that was started in 2008, and the Equine Show Team, a branch off from the Equine Club, which practices in the arena three times a week.

“I am very passionate about horses,” junior preveterinary medicine major Holly Pryor said. “So the Equine Center has helped me by giving me a place where I can be around horses as much as I want to. It has also given me a place to further my education about showing and training horses because of Show Team.”

Pryor, who is secretary of the Equine Club and captain of the Equine Show Team, is very involved with the Equine Center and has taken most of the classes.

She recently received the overall high point buckle for the Morgan Horse Club of Texas show series in the Western pleasure division.

There are still more shows for the show team to attend, but according to Walton, every year the team brings home high point year-end buckles.

“It is a great program that I think the university should invest more resources in because of the opportunities to learn that it gives students,” Pryor said.

The Equine Program is best known for its hands-on training.

“The students do all of the work and I am just there to instruct,” Walton said.

“This is a lot different than just reading about it alone.”

The classes that Walton teaches allow students to follow weanlings (four to six-month old horses) and train them from yearlings until they are two years old, and ready to go under the saddle and enter the riding program.

“It is very unique to have a program that starts its own horses that are born on property and gets to finish them through until they become riding horses,” Walton said.

As of August, the university had 15 broodmares, 15 riding horses, three show horses, three studs, five yearlings and nine weanlings.

“It’s great to watch them grow and learn,” junior animal science major Robyn Serrao said. “It’s even better when you can grow and learn with them.”

Serrao, who is a studentworker at the Equine Center, as well as the Equine Club president and the Show Team secretary, thinks the greatest part about the Equine Center is the raising and training of the horses on the school’s farm.

“Every day is a learning experience,” Serrao said. “[Horses] are good for you physically, emotionally and mentally. Something about a horse heals a person’s heart.”

Parking tickets on rise this semester COLTON BLACK STAFF WRITER

As the fall semester kicks off with approximately 10,800 students enrolled at the Texas A&M UniversityCommerce Campus, the amount of parking permits needed and parking violations have increased.

As of early October, 3,900 parking permits have been issued to the students, faculty and staff on campus.

The parking permits, which can be purchased at the cashier’s office in the McDowell Administration Building, are necessary for maintaining order.

“Parking rules and enforcement of those rules are very important,” Crime Information Officer Lt. Jason Bone said. “Without some sort of rules, there would be a lot of chaos on campus.”

Not only do the parking

permits help to create campus order, they aid also in providing funding for several projects.

As of Aug. 31, the revenue that was generated over a year from parking permits or citations associated with a lack of permit was $123,300.

“Revenue is consistent with prior years,” Bursar and Director of Student Accounting Charles Robnett said. “The average for the past three fiscal years is $126,600.”

The money that is brought in from the sale of the parking permits and from the fines given for parking violations serve multiple purposes.

“The revenue generated is used to provide facilities and enforcement and administration of parking and traffic regulations,” Associate Vice President

and Director of Financial Services Alicia Currin said.

More specifically, Currin mentioned the money funds the Ticketrak software and operational costs associated with enforcing and administering the program.

Although the UPD issues the parking violation tickets, they no longer have any dealings with the financial collection of the tickets, which have to be paid at the cashier’s office in the McDowell Building.

“Thirteen hundred tickets have been written this semester,” Bone said.

With 1,145 additional students now in enrolled on campus and 5,000 students involved in boosting the monetary gain from the fund, whether through purchase of parking permits or by payment of a parking ticket, the revenue is expected to be high.

Prairie Crossing to host party on top floor SAVANNAH CHRISTIAN STAFF WRITER Party in D’Skies, a university-wide Halloween event, will take place on Oct. 29 at Prairie Crossing Apartments.

According to Prairie Crossing Resident Assistant Erica Anderson, students should come dressed in a costume. There will be two costume contests and the winners will receive prizes.

“There will also be five carnival-like games in which anyone who plays will be able to win prizes,” Anderson said.

Any A&M-Commerce student is welcome to attend and will be greeted with free food and refreshments.

“We usually have a costume party every year,” Anderson said. “However, this year we wanted to give away more prizes, have more refreshments and more games for everyone to amplify the fun.”

This is not the first event Prairie Crossing has hosted this year. RA’s plan events for the students all throughout the year.

“I attended a dive-in movie at the Prairie Crossing pool earlier this year,” resident Hugo Macias said. “It was a lot of fun, especially with the friends, free popcorn and drinks.”

According to Anderson, RA’s use many different methods to spread the word about the events they host.

“I heard about the dive-in movie, as well as all of the other events that have taken place, through word of mouth from the RA’s and fliers that are posted around campus,” Macias said. “They do a great job of publicizing events, so that as many students as possible can be in attendance.”

Campus events are intended to be opportunities for students to socialize safely, which is why RA’s try to publicize them as much as possible.

“We RA’s have a common goal of bringing the residents together, getting to know them and realizing their needs while they are living on campus,” Anderson said.

“These events often help residents meet life-long friends, discover new hobbies and have some fun as well.”

Sophomore J.T. Wilkinson is a second-year resident at Prairie Crossing Apartments where Party in D’Skies will take place.

“I have not been able to attend many events due to my conflicting schedule, but the Party in D’Skies sounds really interesting,” Wilkinson said. “These events are a good opportunity to socialize and the RA’s are efficient in getting the word out about them.”

According to Anderson, there is also much time and effort put into planning these events for the students in addition to the advertising.

“We have to figure out how the setup of the location will fit everything that is wanted at the party such as games, food and a DJ table,” she said. “We have to know what materials are needed in order for an event to be successful as well as how to access them. Using all of the on-campus resources has been key for this program. For the most part, planning and following through is a big part of making a program successful, and my staff has been more than helpful in doing so.”

Holidays are often not the safest times to be out on the road, which is why the staff at Prairie Crossing hopes the Party in D’Skies will provide a fun yet safe environment for students.

The Party in D’Skies will start at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 29.. For more information contact Prairie Crossing Apartments at 903- 468-3010.

www.theeasttexan.com

Ca mpus Life

Thursday, Oct. 28, 2010

Page 5

Commerce judge a graduate of A&MCommerce ALEX GERMAIN STAFF WRITER

LuLu’s Burgers, opened by Hans Bavary, is now under the management of Sarj Agha. Agha, a former student at A&M-Commerce from 2005 to 2007, intends to be involved with the university and A&M-Commerce students in general.

LuLu’s Burgers under new managment STEPHANIE NORMAN CAMPUS LIFE EDITOR Hans Bavary opened LuLu’s Burgers seven years ago in Commerce and is now passing the business on to his good friend Sarj Agha.

Agha recently moved back to Commerce from Paris. He graduated from A&M-Commerce in 2007 with a Bachelor’s degree in business administration and a minor in marketing. For the past 12 years, Agha has helped run his family’s multiple businesses, including many convenient stores.

“I was a student here from 2005 to 2007,” Agha said. “I used to come to LuLu’s and I have always felt this place would one day be mine.”

Hans built the burger joint, located at 803 Culver Street, just east of Brookshire’s, from the ground up.

He named the place after his niece, LuLu Sakhleh, who was also part owner and operator for the majority of the time.

“I let Hans know I was interested in the business,” Agha said. “I want to keep the same LuLu’s business.”

Before now, LuLu’s has been a family-owned business. Hans also owned and operated a restaurant in

downtown Commerce eight years ago, Pavorotti’s.

“One thing Hans told me is, ‘You need to be very involved with the city of Commerce, its people and students as a business owner,’” Agha said. “He told me to take care of all the customers and treat everyone equal.”

Agha aspires to follow Hans’s business model. “(I want to be) involved with the schools and students, and offer the same great service that Hans has for the last seven years,” Agha said.

The 25-year-old new owner is also eager to make improvements as needed and develop new attractions.

“In the future, we are going to be adding things targeted toward the typical college student,” Agha said.

Lunchtime is the busiest time of the day for the restaurant. College students make their way over with groups of friends quite frequently.

LuLu’s also has a big screen television on which sports are often showcased.

A&M-Commerce junior Chris Thompson said he enjoys LuLu’s.

“It has a small-town, home-cooked meal feeling to it and they have the best burgers in town,” he said.

So far, Agha said they have already improved the Classic LuLu’s Burger, making it an even “bigger and better tasting burger.”

Agha said LuLu’s emphasizes customer appreciation.

“We appreciate our customers,” Agha said. “They have basically made this business. We hope to keep making LuLu’s a pleasant experience for everyone.”

Senior Myranda Bille said she appreciates LuLu’s exceptional customer service.

“I love LuLu’s because all of the workers are so friendly and considerate,” she said. “I go about once every two weeks and always get the same thing, which is the buffalo chicken strips.”

Agha said he enjoys LuLu’s for many of the same reasons that its repeat customers do.

“I love the food and service here at LuLu’s,” Agha said.

“I love the atmosphere, and from a business perspective, it is always busy here. It feels great to call it mine. I feel accomplished. This is the first of many good things to come.”

University traditions celebrate campus spirit SAVANNAH CHRISTIAN STAFF WRITER A&M-Commerce celebrated Homecoming last week with numerous events that showcased the university’s spirit and traditions.

Even though some A&MCommerce traditions have changed throughout the years, many remain the same.

“I vividly remember my days at East Texas State University,” alumnus Jennifer Edwards said. “Every fraternity and sorority lined their letters up along the fence that surrounds the football field before each Lions game.”

At any given game at Memorial Stadium, a variety of organizations’ letters are on display along the fence line. This tradition remains the same, but there are several that have been lost with the changes of the university.

“The Sigma Chi’s were always hanging out at the Pi, the large structure that is beside Ferguson,” Edwards said. “It was a gathering place for students, especially Greek students, between classes and around lunchtime.”

The Pi is still standing at the right side of the Ferguson Social Sciences Building, but no one congregates around it today.

Many of the traditions of the university revolve around a Texas passion – football.

“Football games are especially important for Alpha Phi because one of our sisters is a trainer for the foot-

ball team,” Alpha Phi Social Chair Amanda McGill said. “We love to go as a group to support the Lions and cheer for our sister.”

Athletic events are an easy way to draw a large crowd and show school spirit. However, some think A&MCommerce is falling short in this department.

“I feel our campus is lacking in school spirit,” McGill said. “I can go to the Drunken Mule on Wednesday night and see 300 people, then go to a basketball game two days later and see fewer than 100 in attendance. It is all about prioritizing, and I feel like our students sometimes get those priorities mixed up.”

A&M-Commerce is making efforts to increase attendance at school events and encourage students to support their peers.

“Since I began school here in 2007, I have already seen a rise in school spirit,” McGill said. “I hope this trend will continue so I will have something I am proud to come back to as an alumnus.”

Many alumni remain actively involved in Greek organizations.

“Alumni are a huge part of our chapter,” Sigma Chi President Micah Glascock said. “We constantly have alumni with us at the majority of university events because they too love to show their support for A&MCommerce.”

Alumni also support the university through with donations, assistance at events and moral support.

“Before football games, the brothers

of Sigma Chi, active and alumni alike, spend the mornings watching college football together, then grill and play washers in the front yard to celebrate a win,” Glascock said.

The Lions football team also has a few traditions.

“Before a game, we always chant,” junior running back Marcus Graham said. “The chant is two beats and then two claps, and takes place before our stretches. Then, after the games that we win, we call the roll.”

A&M-Commerce cheerleaders rally the football team at almost every game. Sophomore Hugo Macias is one of the two male cheerleaders on the squad and is also helping put together the Blue Crew, a group of students inspired by the famous College Station yell leaders.

“The cheerleaders have a longstanding tradition of running into the stadium with the football team, and we still do this today,” Macias said.

“We also make goody bags for the players once every season, wishing them good luck and showing them our support.”

According to Dean of Campus Life and Student Development Dr. Brian Nichols, A&M-Commerce has made great improvements in awakening school spirit and participation, and should continue to do so.

“Spirit happens when students are connected to the institution,” Nichols said. “When we have a lot of spirit on this campus, we will have arrived.

I want these students to be life-long Lions.”

Listen to From the Bench Friday nights from 6 to 6:30 p.m. on your station 88.9 KETR with Jared Watson and Caleb Slinkard

A judge, or arbiter of justice, is a leader who presides over a court of law, either alone or as a part of a panel of judges.

Demetra Robinson is the judge who has presided over the community of Commerce for the past seven years.

Robinson first gained an interest in law enforcement in high school when a unit in her civics class covered Texas Crimes and Punishments. Since then, her dedication to the law field has steadily grown.

“For me, working in law enforcement is the equivalent of eating as much chocolate as I want and never gaining an ounce,” she said.

Robinson grew up in Sulphur Springs, graduated from Sulphur Springs High School, and is very familiar with Commerce and its surrounding communities.

Robinson is in her tenth year working for the City of Commerce, having started as the court clerk/associate judge.

She recently gained her Bachelor’s degree from A&M-Commerce and now plans to attend law school and become an attorney.

Commerce Chief of Police Kerry Crews has been working with Robinson for 10 years, and said there are quite a few things she has done to improve law enforcement in Commerce.

“The biggest thing that she has done since being appointed judge is create a Warrant Officer position in the Court,” he said.

The significance of this is that warrants issued from her court have a better chance of being cleared with the warrant office, thus eliminating a backup of unpaid fines.

Municipal judges and court clerks receive extensive training to become fully educated on how to operate a court and handle cases.

Judges who handle more than Class C Misdemeanor cases need a law degree since there are a lot of other issues they must address.

“I don’t feel that not having a law degree makes a difference in how she handles cases,” Crews said.

To avoid controversy, Robinson limits her involvement in city politics to directly working for the Commerce City Council, although she does plan to run for some office in the future.

“I would just like to make a difference,” she said.

Associate Judge Kenneta Harrison said she has learned a great deal about law enforcement while working with Robinson.

“I have learned more in a year with Robinson than I have in my four years in college,” she said.

Harrison said Robinson has extensive knowledge of law and her judicial abilities readily manifest themselves on a daily basis.

“Judge Robinson has the knowledge of the penal code as well as the transportation code, which is what is needed for her position as presiding judge for the Commerce Municipal Court,” Harrison said.

Letting the public know about her work is another area in which Harrison said Robinson succeeds.

“She has shared the knowledge of law not only to me, but to the public that may just walk in and ask questions, or those who just need help,” Harrison said.

As a judge, there are always forms of animosity and controversy.

Although no specific occurrences come to mind, Robinson said she has had to make difficult decisions during her tenure.

By taking an oath to uphold and interpret the law in a fair and impartial manner, she has the ability to apply the law to any situation at hand.

“Everyone has experienced some animosity in their career,” she said. “No road to any goal is without conflict or controversy.”

According to Harrison, Robinson has done a remarkable job rendering fair verdicts.

“As a judge, you may have to do things that may not make everyone happy,” Harrison said, “but the law is the law and we have to abide by it.”

Both Robinson and Harrison have plans to improve the city of Commerce.

“As the Commerce Municipal Court, we as a department will continue to work with law enforcement as well as other departments to better Commerce, Texas and ensure safety to the people,” she said.

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Thursday, Oct. 28, 2010

www.theeasttexan.com

Haunted houses rival Hollywood horror flicks JASMIN BROWN COPY DESK CHIEF Haunted houses have long intrigued the imaginations of people around the world. Americans are no exception to this equation, especially as Halloween has become a multi-million dollar commercial industry in the U.S., with billboards advertising haunted houses, pumpkin patches, hayrides and corn mazes now being a standard landscape feature along U.S. interstates as Halloween approaches.

And as far as haunted houses are concerned, their quality has fairly recently come to meet or exceed the quality of their cinematic counterparts and garner to attention of several national media outlets.

According to hauntedhouseassociation.org, the website for the Haunted House Association (HHA), a professional association for Halloween and haunted attraction owners and operators: “Over the past few years the haunted house industry has become as good as or better than most Hollywood horror movies and due to this fact the media’s attention has increased. Within the past few years, many major media outlets such as USA Today, The Wall Street Journal, AOL.com, Time Magazine, The Washington Post, The

Associated Press, NFL Films, and many more have featured major stories about the haunted house industry.”

Other websites like hauntedhouseonline.com allow the user to search for haunted house locations via entering name, city or keyword, and even has a link to “Find a Haunted House by State.”

The website also lists its own “America’s Top 13 Scariest Destinations 2010,” three of which are located in Texas: The Cutting Edge Haunted House (Dallas), House of Torment (Austin) and Nightmare on the Bayou (Houston).

Other websites with information on haunted house lore, locations, prices and unique features are: hauntedhouses.com, hauntedamericantours.com, hauntworld.com and realhaunts.com.

However, not all haunted houses are run solely for profit. In fact, according to a tonic.com article, one source estimates that more than 1,000 haunted houses are “donating a portion (or all) of their profits to charity.”

All in all, there is no shortage of Internet resources for those who wish to go beyond candy, hayrides and costumes to delve into a more spine-tingling Halloween experience and perhaps even support a worthy cause in the process.

Terrifying Treats

The leaves are turning dark, the North wind is picking up speed, and pumpkins are popping up all around. It is now October, and Halloween is fast approaching.

SAVANNAH CHRISTIAN STAFF WRITER Invisible Pops

Ingredients: 2 cups sugar 2/3 cup light corn syrup Assorted candies and seeds 12 lollipop sticks

Directions: Line three baking sheets with parchment paper. Prepare an ice-water bath; set aside.

Bring sugar, corn syrup, and ¼ cup water to a boil in a small saucepan. Stir until sugar is dissolved. Occasionally wash down sides of pan with a pastry brush dipped in cold water to prevent crystals from forming; boil until mixture turns golden, 5-7 minutes.

Immediately set pan in icewater bath to stop the cooking.

Let sit for 20 seconds. Swirl pan for 2 minutes to cool.

Quickly poor syrup onto baking sheets, forming circles,spacing them about 4 inches apart.

Press in lollipop sticks Lightly press candies/seeds into syrup. Let stand until completely hardened.

Anomalous Apples Ingredients: 15 Lady apples ¾ cup coarsely chopped

pistachios Vegetable oil cooking spray 1 ½ cups sugar ½ cup corn syrup ½ cup heavy cream, room

temperature 2 ounces bittersweet chocolate,

melted and slightly

cooled Directions: Poke a hole into stem end of each apple. Insert a clean 5-inch

Like candy canes at Christmas and peeps at Easter, there are certain treats that are linked to Halloween. Here are a few recipes to awaken holiday spirits.

twig into each hole. Spread pistachios out on a plate.

Lightly coat baking sheet with cooking spray.

Place sugar and corn syrup in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until mixture is dark gold (approximately 15 minutes).

Remove from heat and slowly mix in heavy cream, stirring vigorously. Let stand for 5 minutes.

Dip 1 apple into caramel to coat the bottom third. Dip caramel-coated apple into pistachios, pressing the nuts into the caramel. Transfer apple to oiled baking sheet, nut side down. Repeat with remaining apples, caramel, and pistachios.

Let apples stand until set (approximately 30 minutes).

Place melted chocolate in a plastic bag. Snip off the tip of one corner to form a very small hole.

Holding 1 apple by the twig, drizzle lines of chocolate onto the apple, let stand for 5 minutes.

Repeat steps with remaining apples. Caramel apples can be refrigerated for 1 day.

Popcorn Balls Ingredients: 2 cups sugar 1 1/3 cups water ½ cup light corn syrup 1 teaspoon white vinegar

½ teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 18 cups popped corn Directions: In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, water, syrup, vinegar, and salt. Cook over high heat until mixture reaches a hard-ball stage.

Stir in vanilla.

Pour over popped corn, and toss gently to coat.

When the mixture has cooled, press the popcorn into 3-inch balls with lightly greased hands.

Set on wax paper until completely cooled.

Roasted Pumpkin Seeds Ingredients: Pumpkin seeds Oil Salt Directions: Rinse pumpkin seeds under cold water and pick out the pulp and strings.

Place the pumpkin seeds in a single layer on an oiled baking sheet, stirring to coat. If you prefer, omit the oil and coat with non-stick cooking spray.

Sprinkle with salt and bake at 325 degrees F until toasted, about 25 minutes.

Let cool and store in an air-tight container.

New features fail to fix flawed “Dead Rising 2” JORDAN C. WRIGHT STAFF WRITER  The pleasure derived from killing zombies is so fundamentally enjoyable that any game involving such action earns points instantly for satisfaction alone. Despite this, I am baffled at the love-hate relationship I have with “Dead Rising 2,” a game that so easily has the making of greatness, yet chooses to bury all of its potential under outdated game play concepts.

Set five years after the zombie outbreak of “Dead Rising,” “Dead Rising 2” centers its story on new protagonist Chuck Greene and his participation in a Las Vegas zombie slaying reality show called “Terror is Reality.” The show awards its winners with a handsome sum of cash, which Chuck needs to pay for Zombrex, a drug that suppresses zombification in bitten victims for a 24-hour period.

He needs to provide regular doses for his 7-year-old daughter Katey, who was bitten by her zombified mother after the outbreak first began. However, an accident in the containment area of the zombies has caused them to break out and spread all over the strip, forcing Chuck to aid in gathering survivors, and stay in one piece until a dispatched rescue unit arrives three days later. Chuck’s mission to protect his daughter ultimately makes for a much more compelling story than its predecessor, as it featured a smart, relatable protagonist in a truly piteous plight.

In addition to the improved storyline, “Dead Rising 2” features an improvement in firearms. Guns and projectile weaponry are much more accurate this time around, not that you’ll be using them very much with the wide variety of weapons in the game.

“Dead Rising 2” ups the ante of its “everything is a weapon” policy by allowing the player to combine certain weapon components into a single more powerful weapon. For example, mixing nails with a baseball bat will create a spiked bat, while combining a squirt gun with a gas canister will create a flamethrower. There are numerous combination options throughout the game,

and only thing more satisfying than the possibilities, is using them in action.

The online multiplayer option is a treat as well. Whether getting help from friends in co-op or slaughtering zombies in one of the several “Terror is Reality” challenges, playing with friends is a great way to spend a few hours in the game.

All of these qualities make “Dead Rising 2” a game that’s definitely worth checking out. Unfortunately, this is also where the positives end and the negatives start to rise.

Unlike the first game’s Mall of America-esque setting, the Las Vegas strip does not contain the unique plethora of weapons to choose from in every shop. Combined with the noticeably larger scale of the game, this makes repetition, and thus boredom, settle in rather quickly.

This matter is not helped by the fact that the game is structured around a series of escort missions, with some of the dumbest AI that I have dealt with in recent history. Your allies never seem to grasp the concept of moving around zombies or obstacles, forcing themselves to kill anything standing in their immediate paths, unless you are constantly calling them away from the action, which can make for intensely frustrating restarts. This is intensified by the save system of the game, which requires the player to find an in-game restroom just to save their progress.

Timing becomes a major annoyance as well. Because Katey requires a dose of Zombrex every 24 hours, you have to be sure to be in the safe zone when she needs it. This can force the player to drop entire missions in mid-execution just to get back to her in time, which completely disrupts the flow of the game to the point at which I was severely tempted to lay it down permanently.

Ultimately, “Dead Rising 2” is a giant, mixed bag of missed opportunity. Despite the additions of new features that provide more entertaining content, the failure to polish off the problems of the existing formula become a major issue.

I desperately tried to love this game for the inherent enjoyment that plowing through never-ending hordes of zombies offers. However, we are now well into the lifespan of the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3, and problems that were forgivable four years xbox360.ign.com ago are no longer acceptable.

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Thursday, Oct. 28, 2010

Page 7

Halloween lacks historical sense of community MITZI Y’BARBO STAFF WRITER For today’s generation, change has been a very good thing. It has brought incredible advances in technology and medicine, and given freedoms like never before. For this writer, some things would have better left unchanged, specifically holiday celebrations.

The meaning of holidays has evolved through the years, eclipsing the true meaning and spirit of the celebration, even developing new, popular theories for the occasion. Such is the case with Halloween.

While growing up, Halloween was a time of year I always looked forward to with great anticipation. Preparations began weeks in advance. We would comb through our parents’ closets mixing and matching items with our own until we came up with the perfect costume for the night.

The family would sit around the kitchen table with boxes of facial tissue, markers and thread, making dozens and dozens of ghosts to hang around the front porch to greet our guests.

The hi-fi would be relocated near a window, so we could

pipe-out spooky music from prized Halloween albums on the turntable. Treats such as candied apples and popcorn balls were lovingly prepared in the kitchen with our moms.

Details for group scavenger hunts were hammered out weeks ahead of time. All of the neighborhood kids came together to go trick-or-treating, and would then divide up for the annual hunt.

Probably the most vivid memory of those days actually involved the adults. Groups of parents and their friends worked for weeks transforming their cozy homes into amazing haunted houses.

Coffins were built for the front yard cemetery, complete with fog and headstones. The homes’ interiors underwent just as much of a change. Everyone dressed in appropriate costume. Lights were dimmed and strobe lights put in place, all to guide visitors through the haunted halls of the home. There were worms, eyeballs and brains set up in the laboratory to feel first-hand.

There were always plenty of zombies and vampires wandering through and jumping out to startle us.

It was hard to tell who had more fun, the adults working or the kids visiting. It was truly a family affair.

When I was a twenty-something, things definitely started changing. Along came the candy scares, with drugs being injected into candies and razor blades hiding in candied apples. Gone were the days of innocent fun.

Parents began having to check every piece of candy the kids collected. Those neighborhood haunted houses disappeared as parents were afraid to let their children enter homes.

About this time is when Halloween took on a dark, evil meaning. Satanic connotations were attached and a fear of the night began to creep in. People stopped participating, turning off their porch lights to stop visitors from walking up to the door.

By the time I became a parent, trick-or-treating had pretty much been eliminated, along with the light-hearted approach to the day.

Costumes became a contest and schools began having carnivals to try to keep some of the fun of the holiday going. I have spent weeks sewing costumes over the years, everything from Elvis, complete with rhinestone cape

and belt, to Captain Hook with feathered cap and red velvet coat, to the Green Power Ranger.

When my youngest son was only one month old, I even made him and his 4-year-old brother matching clown suits, complete with ruffled collars and pointed hats.

Halloween has wavered in its perception through the years.

Some continue to try to do away with it because of the perception of evil they associate with it.

Thankfully, it has not yet been eliminated. Although the Halloween I remember is long gone, the holiday is still around.

Nowadays, churches and companies sponsor large events where children can still come to have fun and get treats in a safe environment. The traditional neighborhood parties are gone, having been replaced by private parties mostly geared toward the college-aged crowd.

Even though children of today do not know any different, I think it is sad that they do not have the same opportunities I had for such a wonderful night of fun.

Although change in inevitable, it is not always the best thing. Some traditions are worth holding on to.

Horror classics hit or miss for modern viewers JORDAN C. WRIGHT STAFF WRITER Time has a way of crippling films in a fashion that most studios only wish they could pull off. With Halloween around the corner, I took a look at those horror classics that have withstood the test of time and those that have aged into dust in an attempt to get into the spirit of the holiday.

Halloween John Carpenter’s 1978 classic featuring Michael Myers, the unstoppable masked slasher of Halloween, manages to hold up surprisingly better than one would imagine. The film is a masterpiece of atmosphere, making every setting and shot of the film feel eerie and tense all at once, and makes the moments Myers finally strikes, shocking and nearly unpredictable at the exact same time. Coupled with the excellent performances of the cast, every kill of the movie carries a very thrilling weight to it. It’s good that “Halloween” is such a master of setting a suspenseful mood, because if you remove the atmosphere from the film, it becomes easy to see that the kills themselves do not look very convincing.

The slow, tame, calculated motions of Myers as he stabs, chokes and maims his victims do not appear to hold the strength required to commit such killings. This is not helped by the poor utilization of fake blood, which already fails to look convincing at the scene of each kill. Despite this, “Halloween’s” ability to invoke fear without necessarily showing something to be afraid of clinches its classic status today as much as it did nearly 32 years ago.

A Nightmare on Elm Street In a parallel to “Halloween,” Freddy Krueger’s 1984 debut features realistic blood and gore, yet disappoints in the area of atmosphere. Seeing Freddy before his pop culture icon turned him into more of a comedian than a horror to behold is an absolute treat. However, the fear of this movie comes more from the thrill of the chase than the chill of the threat. In addition to some dated effects, the movie also features performances that do not hold up as well as one would hope; for instance, Heather Langenkamp’s performance as protagonist Nancy Thompson, who shifts constantly between bland and overacting in the first half of the movie. Although it remains entertaining to watch unfold, “A Nightmare on Elm Street” is ultimately a scarier premise than a movie.

Night of the Living Dead Surprisingly, the film of the bunch that may have held up better than almost any other is from the black and white era. Despite the limitations of camera quality to capture convincing makeup, “Night of the Living Dead” show’s why it’s considered to be a classic. The emphasis of the horror in “Night of the Living Dead” is less on the zombies themselves and more on the effect they have on society.

Watching the characters get pushed to do morally questionable things for the sake of survival is gripping from start to finish, with performances delivered so beautifully that you tend to forget about how old it actually is. If most subsequent zombie films were even half as smart as this film was, they probably wouldn’t have stagnated for a good decade or so before their new millennium revival.

The Exorcist Heralded by critics as one of the scariest films of all time, “The Exorcist” is a movie I had a bit of trouble digesting. The first 30 minutes or so are rather dull, with a few moments or so that could have been trimmed down for greater effect.

Once the possession of Regan MacNeil, portrayed by Linda Blair, began, I found myself entranced at the events on screen straight through to the end credits. However, as compelled as I was by the events of the film, I was never truly afraid. I still wonder if this is due to the exposure of the story in pop culture or if the mindset of people has changed over the years. However, I ultimately found “The Exorcist” more fascinating than scary.

Alien Long before the Alien Xenomorph was locked in PG-13 combat with the Predator in bad popcorn action flicks, this icon of sci-fi was almost a king in the domain of horror. As I watched the movie for the first time in quite a while, it was easy to see why.

Similar to “The Exorcist,” “Alien’s” first third can be a tad bit slow at points as it builds up to the inevitable disaster. However, from the moment the alien life form reveals itself on the ship, the fright never seems to die down. Director Ridley Scott perfectly captures the claustrophobia of the space ship environment, creating genuine fear as the crew comes to accept the reality that the only way to truly survive this endeavor is to kill the creature. Space leaves them with little to no means of escape. Helping this is the brevity of screen time that the creature is actually given, making the mystery feel that much more threatening. I can honestly not think of a single problem with the film. It is just as good now as it was when it released.

Creepy celebration has pagan, Christian origins MITZI Y’BARBO STAFF WRITER Halloween has changed in its public perception and celebration over the years. It began in the fifth century in Celtic Ireland as a celebration of ‘Samhain’ (pronounced sow-in), which means “end of summer,” and also marked the beginning of the dark, cold winter.

On this night before their new year, the Celts believed the boundary between the living and dead blurred, and the ghosts of the dead could return to ruin crops and cause trouble.

Irish children would carve potatoes or turnips and light them for the festivities. They were said to be taunting ‘Jack,’ a mythical Irish villain who wandered aimlessly looking for a place to rest, having only the heat of the candles for warmth.

During the Irish Potato Famine (1845-1850), more than 700,000 people migrated to the Americas and brought their traditions with them. As pumpkins were more plentiful than turnips, they quickly became a popular replacement for carving, and have become perhaps the most popular icon of the holiday.

The people wore masks during times of drought or famine, as they believed the demons who had caused their bad luck would be scared off by them. It is also said they kept food stored away during this time of year for safekeeping. They were uneasy at night and stayed snuggled up in their homes. Those who dared to go out after dark wore masks.

Trick-or-Treating is believed to have several origins. One probable beginning is from the ancient European custom known as ‘souling.’ On Nov. 2, All Soul’s

Day, ancient Christians walked throughout the village begging for ‘soul cakes,’ which were square bread and fruitcakes. The more cakes a person received, the more prayers they could offer up on behalf of the dead, who were believed to remain in limbo after death, needing their passage to heaven expedited by these prayers.

Parts of the Catholic religion eventually began blending with the Celtic traditions. The modern name Halloween has derived from All Hallow’s Eve, also known as All Saint’s Day, when the lives of Christian martyrs were celebrated.

Among Roman rituals absorbed into the Celtic celebration was the worship of Pomona, the goddess of the harvest. She is often portrayed in pictures sitting on a basket of fruit and flowers. Pomona’s

sacred fruit was the apple, and many games involving apples entered the Samhain customs.

This is how the modern game of bobbing for apples is thought to have become a Halloween tradition.

Costumes and treats were always an important part of the ancient Celtic celebrations. The costumes, like the masks, were thought to scare away ghosts.

These traditions continued and blended with ‘souling,’ thus creating the modern-day trick-or-treating custom of dressing in costumes and going from house to house to collect candy and treats.

Halloween eventually began losing its religious meanings, and became the community-based children’s holiday recognized today and celebrated with costumes, trick-or-treating and costume parties for “kids” of all ages.

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Campus Life

Thursday, Oct. 28, 2010

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Surviving Halloween holiday CHANCELLOR MILLS OPINION EDITOR It’s about that time again – time to bust out the jack o’ lanterns, fun-size Snickers and gallons upon gallons of “fake” blood to pour on my roommate when he wakes up every day.

No? Is that last one just me?

Okay then.

Anyway…you guessed it!! It’s time to get ready for Halloween!!

One of my favorite things about Halloween – second only to the mass quantities of candy I will consume on Halloween night and inevitably throw up – is watching all the token slasher flicks. Just like I’m sure others do, every time I watch one of these “gore-fest” films, I am constantly being the annoying audience member and talking about how the victim in question could have avoided their current predicament.

So, for your reading pleasure, I’m going to give you readers some tips on how to survive (for as long as you can) some of your basic horror films this All Hallows’ Eve. I want to begin by saying that most horror films discussed here can be avoided by simply being a responsible, straightedge teenager who doesn’t drink, smoke or do drugs.

I’ll start with a simple movie

first: “I Know What You Did Last Summer.”

This movie, its awful sequel and its God-awful sequel’s sequel could have all been avoided if Freddie Prinze Jr. had just spent a little less time drooling over Jennifer Love Hewitt’s bodacious rack and just a little more time paying attention in health class. If, after hitting Ben Willis with their car, any one of them had just had the presence of mind to CHECK HIS PULSE, those morons would have lived, and we could have all been saved from the abomination that was this horror trilogy.

The next horror series is a little more complicated: The Friday the 13th franchise.

As previously discussed, you could just not be a drugged up alcoholic teenager and you would never find yourself in the crosshairs of Jason Voorhees, but where’s the fun there? However, if you want to be completely hedonistic, feel free. Just don’t do it anywhere near a camp called Crystal Lake.

Stay away from that place – or any other place that the locals call “Camp Blood.” Also, if you are camping with friends and one of them says something like, “Hey I’ve heard of this place. Apparently there used to be a camp here, but then there was this series of

mysterious, gruesome murders that were never solved. I’m sure that’s just a rumor though.

We’ll go check it out later,” run away. This is a clear sign that you don’t need to be any where near there.

In some horror films, like the “Halloween” franchise, it is clearly impossible not get the attention of a psychopath who is just out for blood. In these instances, it is best to automatically assume that anybody acting excessively strange or out of character on Halloween is the killer Michael Myers.

Situation: You have been engaged by Myers and somehow wrestled his knife away from him and have stabbed one time in the abdomen, and he has fallen down allowing you to get away from him; what do you do now? If you said “put down the knife, walk six feet and then sit down to recover from your ordeal”, then you are completely wrong. What you should have said was “stab him again and again and again and again and again.” You keep stabbing until you pull something, and then go outside, hotwire the nearest car (unless you have the keys) and drive until you run out of gas.

Finally, I want to speak briefly about the “Nightmare on Elm Street” franchise. Freddy Krueger movies are the only movies in which the majority of

Arielle McMahon\The East Texan

his victims have done nothing to deserve their fate and there is no conceivable way to survive. Freddy is pretty much the most powerful movie monster out there. Between the original movies and the reboot, we have learned a few things: Freddy can get to you both in your dreams and in reality. Once you fall asleep (even for you few seconds), Freddy can keep you asleep for as long he wants, and can only get to you if somebody

tells you about him. The first two points are what render all attempts to defeat Freddy utterly futile, and the last point brings me to my final statement on Freddy Krueger: if you have Freddy on your tail and he wants to kill you, DON’T TELL ANYBODY!! Just kill yourself and be done with it. Don’t be a d***.

And with that, I will say goodbye, sweet dreams and via con Dios.

Dusting off the classics H.P. Lovecraft JUSTIN FITZ STAFF WRITER “H.P. Lovecraft has yet to be surpassed as the 20th century’s greatest practitioner of the classic horror tale.”

– Stephen King Since it is now the 21st century, I guess he won.

There’s something you need to know before reading any further: H.P. Lovecraft is not Stephen King. He is not Dean Koontz. Lovecraft does not want to scare you. He wants to horrify you.

Lovecraft’s stories will never jump out and yell “BOO!” They’ll follow you home and watch you sleep, just waiting. His style of writing presents his tales in a manner that makes you feel physically safe, but mentally on edge. He likes to play with sanity. He does this very well.

Lovecraft is phenomenal.

Every sentence is structured perfectly and his intelligence practically glows on the page. This means that his writing is not very accessible.

Also, Lovecraft is quite dead. He wrote during the 1920’s and this is blatantly evident. His works contain words that are not in common use anymore and he spells them differently than we now do. He also has no qualms with being racially offensive. Some of his stories are prevalently racist. In “The Rats in the Walls” his black cat’s name is a racial epithet that I’m not allowed to print. But his writing is nonetheless incredible.

A method that Lovecraft employs quite often is telling a story in first person, past-tense. The short story “Pickman’s Model” begins with the line, “You needn’t think I’m crazy, Eliot— plenty of others have queerer prejudices than this.” This immediately grabs your attention.

Throughout this story, the narrator will ask you how you are or if you need a drink. I loved this immersion technique so much that I missed it in his other stories.

While Lovecraft does maintain true to this idea of protagonist invincibility, it does not mean that the ending will be joyous. In fact, it rarely is.

Also, Lovecraft knew how intelligent he was, so he liked to think that he had surprised you or caught you off-guard with some of his endings.

He displayed this by ending many of his shorter stories with an italicized phrase, as though he verbally slapping you across the face while you were yawning. This doesn’t always work. “The Outsider” failed miserably, as I foresaw the ending from early on. But most of his stories, like “Pickman’s Model,” succeeded.

This Halloween, if you want to be haunted by a story that will make you stop reading to allow yourself time to question and mentally expound, rather than be attacked by cheap tricks and loud noises, then H.P. Lovecraft is the perfect choice.

World War Z JAMES BRIGHT EDITOR For some time, zombies have typically been recipes for disaster in horror novels. “World War Z,” however, defies this stereotype.

From the get-go, Max Brooks’ novel of a zombie war is engrossing and original. It follows the story of an unnamed narrator as he chronicles the war via a series of interviews. Each interview is relative to a chronological event in the war and no one character is interviewed twice.

This book does an incredible job of storytelling, character design and is also wonderfully written.

The idea of using a series of interviews to tell a story is novel. Obviously, each interview is fake, as this is a fictional book, but the writer makes every effort to add legitimacy to the tales. Despite the ridiculous nature associated with a zombie war, the author does a phenomenal job making every event seem sincere. Readers will find themselves captivated by these tales of woe. It effortlessly takes the tale from one major event in the war to another without bogging down the story in excessive character description.

In fact, there is a perfect amount of character description. Each chapter is prefaced with a bold one to two-paragraph summary of the interviewee and why he or she is relevant to the overall story.

This helps the reader set up a mental image of whom the author is looking at. On several occasions, the interviewee may reference one of their physical features, which adds to the tale being told. The clever thing about this is that the author masterfully builds a scene while telling a story.

There is no break between these two integral parts of the book. This wonderful use of description is what will keep readers turning pages throughout the novel.

Aside from the storyline, the writing in this novel is superb. Many books have difficulty eloquently wording surroundings. It is one of the largest pit falls in the world of literature. It seems odd that a book about zombies would succeed in this area, but it does. The story takes the reader all over the world, and at each stop, a beautiful, albeit sometimes disgusting description, is waiting to be read. In one chapter, Brooks paints a flawless picture of people swimming toward boats in the Indian Ocean in order to escape zombies on shore.

While swimming, several of these would-be survivors are yanked to watery graves by members of the undead residing below the water’s surface.

At the same time, Brooks also describes the boats themselves, on which a few infected people have made it aboard and are spreading the infection at a rapidly increasingly rate.

Is it odd to say this sort of storytelling is beautiful? Probably, but it’s these factors that set “World War Z” apart from any other book in the genre.

Dracula CALEB SLINKARD MANAGING EDITOR It goes without saying that vampire-themed art has saturated the market in recent years. The once dreaded creature of the night has taken on far less menacing role thanks to its rise in popularity, especially among preadolescents and teenagers.

While it is hard to put a finger directly on why and when this happened (Oct. 5, 2005), there are certainly a number of vampire purists out there who are frustrated that the vampire genre has lost its bite. For those interested in a hardier, darker, and more horrifying vampire, Bram Stoker’s Dracula is the book for you.

Told through the written accounts of various main characters and the occasional newspaper article, we are first introduced to Dracula when an English solicitor (lawyer) Jonathan Harker is sent to his castle in Eastern Europe to help facilitate a realestate sale to Count Dracula. Soon Harker discovers he is a prisoner in the castle and slowly begins to discover Dracula’s true diabolical nature. Harker barely escapes the castle with his life and escapes to England, shortly followed by Dracula.

Dracula begins to haunt Harker’s fiance Mina Murray and her friend Lucy Westenra upon arriving in England.

Three different individuals propose to Lucy on the same day who all prove to be key characters in the book- Arthur Holmwood (who she accepts), Dr. John Seward and the ever-stereotypical Texan Quincey Morris. When Lucy’s physical conditon begins to detiorate, Dr. Seward calls on his friend Dr. Van Helsing from Germany. Lucy eventually dies and is buried, and the four men confront her vampire and destroy it. Van Helsing and company begin to disrupt Dracula’s intention of establishing a home in England, and Dracula flees the country.

Van Helsing and his team hunt him down and kill him by cutting his head off.

In Dracula, Stoker delved into several provocative themes that flew in the face of the Victorian morality of the time. Dracula himself was constantly menacing, a dangerous and unseen foe that could strike at the very heart of the team that was attempting to eradicate him. Yet even in giving Dracula vast powers, Stoker’s limitations made Dracula a horrific yet conquerable adversary.

Dracula’s sexuality is hard to miss, The act of drinking and sharing his blood with Mina reflects the medieval myth that blood was mingled during sexual intercourse. To overemphasize Dracula’s sexuality would be doing the book a great injustice, however. Stoker also explores themes of grief, helplessness, and horror throughout the book and touches on subjects such as religion and the ancient mythology surrounding vampires.

While the narrative style of Dracula does lend it an outdated feel, the novel is far more deserving of a read than most of the pop trash that is so readily consumed by today’s teeming masses.

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Thursday, Oct. 28, 2010

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Members of the Kappa Delta Chi sorority dance at the Yard Show Monday, Oct. 18 hosted by the National Pan-Hellenic Council.

Yard show starts off spirit week NICK BAILEY STAFF WRITER Spirit week started off with a bang this year as the National Pan-Hellenic Council held its annual Yard Show. This year, Greek organizations strutted their stuff against one another to compete for various awards and a year’s worth of bragging rights. Students gathered around the East Circle to watch different Greek organizations present their new strut routines for the semester. Traditionally, strutting is an organized dance for an organization, many of them dating back more than 100 years ago.

“This is a way for the NPHC fraternities and sororities to showcase their traditions and their organizations,” Greek Life Coordinator Amber Johnston said. “A lot of the historically black Greek organizations work hard to do their best at this stuff, and I’m glad to see them come together and have fun.”

With hosts Tiffany Maxfield and Fred Williams keeping the crowd energetic, the energy level was high Monday evening. Both hosts entertained the audience with songs, jokes and numerous giveaways.

“I think it went good,” Williams said. “It is good to see all the Greeks come together for something positive for the [A&M-Commerce].”

The show started off with

the gentlemen of Kappa Alpha Psi, led by Kendrick Alford.

These young men seemed to be a crowd favorite and have the reputation to back it up. Their signature “suave” style of strutting is always noted when the organizations come together. They were followed by the ladies of Alpha Kappa Alpha.

This group of ladies was quick to set the bar for the sororities with their high-energy routines.

In addition to the NPHC Greek organizations, the women of Kappa Delta Chi joined into the fun for the first time ever.

“I was really nervous,” KDChi member Lorynne Edwards said. “But the support from all the other Greek organizations really helped us have more confidence in our routine. We really appreciate [the Greek’s] support.”

KDChi is a Hispanic Greek organization, and is currently the only active Hispanic Greek organization on the A&MCommerce campus.

As the event continued, there were performances from the “divas” of Delta Sigma Theta and the ladies of Zeta Phi Beta. These sororities are very competitive with each other.

“I think we did well,” Delta member Saundria Jackson said.

“We strutted our stuff and had fun. We won Best Sorority Overall, so that’s really great.

But everyone did their thing and we all had unity.”

While the Delta’s took home the big prize for the sororities, the Zetas also won a few awards as well.

“We killed it,” Zeta member Candice Foots said. “We’re always considered the underdogs because of our numbers, but we always shut it down.”

The Zetas had no comment about why their brother fraternity Phi Beta Sigma did not perform at the event.

As the event began to close, the final organization – Alpha Phi Alpha – took center stage.

Their notably energetic style, in comparison to the relaxed style of the Kappa’s, was quick to get the crowd pumped up all over again. The evening ended with the awards ceremony.

“It went by the crowd, but I felt like some of it was rigged,” Kappa member Kieron Monroe said. “Since the MC’s were both Greeks, we figured they would pick their organizations to win more, so we weren’t surprised by some of the results.”

In general, everyone seemed to enjoy themselves and the university officials did not have to intervene.

“I think it went pretty well.

Everyone was hype and unified,” Junior Rachel Biggers said. “I think it was pretty fair overall. I liked the Zeta’s creativity, and the way they put it everything together.

Safety, candy define Halloween night CHANCELLOR MILLS CALEB SLINKARD EDITORS Despite its pagan origins and dark atmosphere, Halloween has become as much about children in costumes trick-or-treating as zombies and witches. Safety on this fall holiday is therefore of utmost importance for parents.

According to a 2009 study printed in the Sexual Abuse: A Journal of Research and Treatment, the greatest danger for children during Halloween is from pedestrian/automobile accidents, particularly in the late afternoon and evening. The Texas Department of Public Safety reported no unusual spike in crime during the month of October according to their 2009 crime report.

Even though Halloween has a dark connotation, according to Community Resource and Warrant Officer Alex Suarez of the Commerce Police Department, Commerce ordinarily only sees a rise in mischief on Hallows Eve. “One thing we may see is kids vandalizing pumpkins or stealing decorations off lawns,” Suarez said. “But things like that are more of a

nuisance than anything else.”

Although he is not expecting any trouble, Suarez said that there will be a distinct police presence on Halloween night.

“Certainly on the 31st, all officers are going to be aware that there are little kids running around,” he said. “It’s going to be a dark time and so [the officers} are going to be more visible as far as being where the crowds are. So we make sure that we try to patrol the city streets more and the neighborhoods more where kids will be.”

Suarez is not as concerned about crime as he is for the safety of trick-or-treaters.

“One thing we tell parents is to make sure that their kids have costumes that they can see out of,” Suarez said. “Also make sure that they are always with their kids and not letting them cross the street on their own since there will be a lot of cars on the roads.”

It is no coincidence that the month of October is also is the National Crime Prevention Council’s Crime Prevention Month. The NCPC has numerous resources on their website, www.ncpc.org, for parents during Halloween.

“Although children look forward to tricks, treats and ghoulish garb, Halloween can be fraught with fright for parents, with candy given to their kids by strangers and a legion of masked and costumed trickor-treaters at the door,” the NCPC said on their website.

“However, following a few safety tips can ensure safe fun for kids and candy-givers alike. Clear your yard and sidewalk of any obstacles or decorations that may be hard to see in the dark, lest someone go bump in the night.

Keep your house well lighted, both inside and out; you wouldn’t want to miss any particularly good costumes, would you? Ask your Neighborhood Watch or local citizen’s group to haunt (patrol) your community.

Report any suspicious or criminal activity to your police or sheriff’s department.”

Community parents interested in a safe alternative to trick-or-treating can contact their local churches. First Christian Church in Commerce will be holding a “Trunk-orTreat” event where children can go trick-or-treating in their church parking lot before dark.

The East Texan talked with Joe Leonard, incumbent candidate for the 196th District Court. Look for more Hunt County election coverage in our next issue on Nov. 2.

Why are you the best choice for judge for the 196th District Court?

1. I am best qualified because I am the only candidate with judicial experience. A judge must make hard decisions every day and be a leader. My leadership skills were developed in the U.S. Navy by attending OCS and serving as a weapons officer on a destroyer and at a training command. I have served on many civic boards and service clubs and as a church elder. As a judge, I have served 8 out of 16 years as local administrative judge, as Juvenile Judge and 26 year member of the Juvenile Board, and as District Judge in charge of Adult Probation matters until the legislature removed this duty. My resume is at Reelectjoeleonard.com.

As the incumbent do you intend on operating in much the same way you have in the past if you’re re-elected? If not, what would you change?

2. Yes, my policies and procedures are well accepted and based on experience.

The court runs smoothly without long delays for hearings.

What do you feel that you’ve accomplished in your most recent term as judge?

3. You may see television or newspaper ads for Crimestoppers with the photo of an absconder from probation. I originated this cooperative effort between Crimestopper and Adult Probation to get these criminals arrested and back in court.

Recent legislation gave the two County Courts at Law concurrent jurisdiction with the two District Courts. As Administrative Judge I enacted an Order for Docket Management to govern Criminal, Family Law and Civil Cases in Hunt County.

What’s something you think that most people don’t understand about your office?

4. I do not create laws or have any political agenda. I follow the law and am impartial. As a court of general jurisdiction, the District Court can handle any cases from capital murder to multimillion dollar lawsuits.

Why should A&M-Commerce students vote in the upcoming election, particularly the one for your office?

5. I did not get to vote until I was 21.

I was on my ship on the way to conduct gunfire support for our troops in Vietnam and got to mail my first ballot in. I was proud to vote and hope that students appreciate the right to vote at a younger age and in convenient forums such as mobile and early voting. The District Court is very important because of its general jurisdiction and I am the best man for the job.

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Thursday, Oct. 28, 2010

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Fromage du Jour A weekly look at film cheese

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“Iphigenia” stars (from left to right) A’Mari Rocheleau, Jacob Layton and Kasey Thompson pose for a picture following “Iphigenia’s” world premiere. Set in the early 20th century, “Iphigenia” follows the love and tragedy of an Ohio family.

The Canadian vampire musical “Suck” follows the adventures of a band that rises to superstardom with some supernatural assistance.

World premiere resounding success Vampire musical does not “Suck” CALEB SLINKARD MANAGING EDITOR 

Sacrifice and betrayal, lust and rape, insanity and terrible mashed potatoes – all were on display in the world premiere performance of Don Nigro’s “Iphigenia” at A&MCommerce’s University Playhouse last week. The play, which is based on the ancient Greek myth of the same name, and set in the early 20th century Ohio, “Iphigenia” presents a relevant and timeless commentary on human relationships.

“Iphigenia” centers around beautiful Jenna Ryan (A’Mari Rocheleau), her more intelligent and sarcastic sister Lexie (Kasey Thompson), and her parents Michael (Jeffrey Stirl) and Carolyn (Denise Buckels). Their daily routine is interrupted by the appearance of a strange, suave young man from Brooklyn named Nick Demetrius (portrayed by Jacob Layton in his best performance to date), who claims to know Michael from his New York days and hints at a

dark secret. Angry and fearful, Michael gives Nick a job at the bank he works at and allows him to start courting his favorite daughter, Jenna.

Jenna senses that Nick poses a threat to her father’s happiness and wellbeing, and marries Nick despite the fact that she despises him.

On their wedding night, Jenna refuses to go to bed with Nick, who rapes her in a drunken rage. Jenna climbs onto the roof of their house and begins exhibiting signs of a mental breakdown, which will ultimately consume her.

Lexie convinces her to return inside by promising the help her kill Nick.

For the next six months, Jenna locks herself in her parents’ attic any time Nick comes to the Ryan house. Nick still visits the household, drinking with Michael and growing closer to Lexie.

Jenna finally comes down to dinner and we learn that Michael committed a robbery with Nick’s older brother, and left him to die after they were discovered.

Jenna then confronts

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“Paranormal Activity 2” is on par with the style and scare tactics from the first film, even though this film cost more than $2 million more to make.

“PA2” equals big scares CHANCELLOR MILLS OPINION EDITOR  In 2007, up and coming director Oren Peli spent 10 days and $11,000 creating the “faux-reality” horror film, “Paranormal Activity” (PA1) – a film which grossed more than $100 million world-wide.

After a success like that, it came as no surprise that we would see a “Paranormal Activity 2” (PA2) break into theaters this year.

PA2 is actually part prequel and part sequel to the original film, beginning roughly two months before the events of the first movie and ending a few days after the ending of PA1.

The plot of this film is that Kristi has recently

brought home newborn son Hunter to her widowed husband Dan and stepdaughter Ali. The tiein to the first film is that Kristi is the sister of Katie from PA1. After what seems like an innocuous break-in, Dan decides that he will buy a surveillance system to monitor the inside and out of the family’s home.

However, a few days after the installation of the cameras, strange, unexplainable things start to happen in the home.

Much like in PA1, the most unsettling thing about this movie is the fact that it’s not some visible threat like a crazed, psycho killer that is messing with this family. The fact that most of the early disturbances of the family resemble things that

her family – Michael for his crime, Nick for his blackmail and rape, and Lexie and Carolyn for their desire for Nick.

Rather than risk Jenna spreading their secrets, Nick and the Ryan family have her committed to a local insane asylum.

“Iphigenia” closes with the haunting image of Jenna in a straightjacket, the victim of her family’s cowardice and betrayal.

Perhaps the most impressive aspect of director Carrie Klypchak’s production is the deft way that the cast deals with the sensitive issues raised by the play.

Despite these themes, “Iphigenia” remains a black comedy, as willing to crack a joke about deepseated family tensions and problems as analyze them, which is possibly more cathartic.

Rocheleau shone in a role that seemed almost tailor-made for her and her haunting performance left an indelible mark on the audience. In portraying Jenna’s sister, Lexie, Thompson stole multiple scenes with her sassy sarcasm, while Stirl’s and

Buckel’s performances were both realistic and immediately accessible for the audience, albeit somewhat one-dimensional.

Jacob Layton’s Nick Demetrius quickly became my favorite character, as I found the Brooklyn rascal wildly entertaining.

The play needed no set changes. Instead, expert use of lighting helped the audience differentiate between the various rooms of the Ryan house.

When not in a scene, the actors stood in a darkened section of the set and often remained motionless for minutes at a time. A minimalistic soundtrack and the occasional appearance of the Chorus of Townspeople added depth to the production.

“Iphigenia” was not without drawbacks. The second act tended to replay arguments and conversations, and lacks the intense action of the last portion of the first act.

Overall, however, “Iphigenia” was a fantastic production and a must-see for any A&M-Commerce student, faculty or staff member, which will be talked about for years.

could happen in your own home is what makes this movie so entertaining and bone-chilling to watch. Things like a door slowly drifting shut or something else that you would ordinarily write off as being caused by wind or as the result of absentmindedness, are the sort of things that make this movie all the more scarier because it’s relatable to the audience.

An interesting nuance to this prequel/sequel is that fact that, instead of viewing the supernatural mischief through one handheld camera with a limited scope, the events of PA2 are experienced through a handful of security cameras, as well as a handheld one.

This adds another aspect to the story in that the family doesn’t realize what is going on from the jump so they are not reviewing the footage every day like Micah did in the first movie.

So you have the family only checking on cameras when something strange happens to one of them, but since 1-yearold Hunter can’t speak, nobody is checking the camera in his nursery to see a mobile spinning by itself in his crib, or the fact that he is at one point lifted out of his crib and then mysteriously put back before the parents get home.

One thing I really enjoyed was that this prequel served to explain the events of the first movie and clarify that the events of PA1 were not just some

sort of random act of demonic violence.

We find out during the unfolding of PA2 that a possible explanation is that, somewhere along the way, somebody in Kristi and Katie’s family history made a deal with a demon for wealth or power and the cost was the soul of the first-born son. However, as there have been no males in the bloodline until Hunter, the demon has not come calling until now. And the audience also find out that through some form of “voodoo hoodoo,” how the demon was able to latch onto Katie.

Even though PA2 was given a considerably larger budget of almost $3 million, you would not be able to tell by watching, as some of the effects are basically the same as the first movie.

There is something very interesting for fans of the first “Paranormal Activity” in the last five minutes of the this movie.

At the end of PA1, it says that Katie had not been seen since the murder of Micah. However, in the last scenes of PA2, we find out that Katie made one last pit stop before she disappeared from the face of the earth.

Scary movies ordinarily don’t rattle me, but my heart was beating a mile a minute for the last half hour of this film.

I wouldn’t recommend this film for anybody who is superstitious or faint of heart, but I personally loved it.

JARED WATSON DIGITAL MEDIA EDITOR

Most B-movies, well aware they will not garner enough interest to make money in theaters, ultimately aspire to be “cult” films, movies that groups of die-hard fans will pay to see over and over again.

The granddaddy of all cult films is the rock musical “The Rocky Horror Picture Show,” which has dominated midnight movie houses since the late ‘70s, and is even inspiring a Halloween episode of “Glee.”

Many movies have attempted to duplicate its success over the years, and the latest to try to tap into the musical magic is the Canadian film “Suck,” which bills itself as a “rock ‘n’ roll vampire comedy.”

The movie features cameos from some rock legends, pays homage to some classic rock albums and is really just a ton of fun.

The story is centered around the mediocre bar band The Winners, who are willing to do anything to succeed.

So, when their bassist Jennifer shows up to a gig pale as a pillowcase, but manages to mesmerize the audience, they take it in stride.

Yes, she’s a vampire, and soon the band begins rocketing toward undead superstardom.

What makes this movie really work is that it’s an unabashed love letter to the history of rock ‘n’ roll.

Several of the scenes are shot as homage to classic album covers. The Beatles’ “Abbey Road,” The Rolling Stones’ “Beggar’s Banquet” and The Who’s “The Kids Are Alright,” along with several others, are all included for sharp-eyed viewers to appreciate.

You also can’t sling

a cat in “Suck” without hitting a legendary musician. Alice Cooper plays a bartender with a dark past, and Iggy Pop is a studio engineer and mentor to The Winners.

Moby makes an appearance as the lead singer of a rival band, The Secretaries of Steak, and ends up as Jennifer’s dinner after the gig.

The guest star who steals the show, however, is Rush guitarist Alex Lifeson, in his portrayal of a Hitler-mustached U.S./Canada border guard determined to make life miserable for The Winners until they tell him they are musicians.

“Sweet! I used to be in a band,” is his response as he stamps their passports and lets them pass.

Malcolm McDowell co-stars as Eddie Van Helsing, a vampire hunter who pursues the band as they tour.

The movie makes use of footage from the 1973 film “O Lucky Man” to put a 30-year-old McDowell in flashbacks.

It is amazing and jarring to see “Clockwork Orange” era McDowell in a movie this new.

If I have to criticize anything in this movie, it’s that the music is instantly forgettable.

For a movie that calls itself a musical and is driven by music, the songs themselves essentially go in one ear and right out the other.

If the goal of “Suck” was to emulate “Rocky Horror,” there is no “Sweet Transvestite,” and certainly no “Time Warp.”

But don’t let that dissuade you. The rest of the movie is so well done and entertaining that a few minor flaws are gladly excused.

Movies like “Suck” are a rare treat, and you owe it to yourself to take a bite.

“Suck” is a joy to watch throughout.

It’s gory, campy fun from start to finish.

-Jared Watson

Digital Media Editor

Next week on “Fromage du Jour”: “Mutant Vampire Zombies from the ‘Hood!”

www.theeasttexan.com

SPORTS

Thursday, Oct. 28, 2010

As her teammates look on, freshman Jordan Neal stretches out to get a dig and prevent the opposition from scoring during a home match.

Freshman Neal already a big contributor JON MCDANIEL STAFF WRITER For some people, volleyball may just be a game to play on the beach during the summer, but for A&MCommerce freshman setter Jordan Neal, it has become a lifelong passion.

“I was really raised around volleyball,” Neal said. “My mother was a volleyball coach and I began playing back when I was six. I just really understand the sport and it is a passion of mine.

The experience shaped me because I was always

a step ahead of everyone around me in skill work. I was introduced into it so early and already knew the basic skills, so having that advantage put me as a role model to many of the kids.”

This is Neal’s first year playing at the collegiate level, and as most freshmen discover, it’s much different than a high school environment.

“Playing here at A&MCommerce is so much different than it was playing back at Joshua High School,” Neal said. “Everyone here is inspired to play. The competitive level is much

greater. We work really hard, and everyone wants to be here and win, while maybe in high school, not everyone took the sport that serious.”

It didn’t take Neal long to warm up to the level of competition in college.

She was recently named the Lone Star Conference Co-Setter of the Week.

“I was really shocked when I heard,” she said.

“I’m very excited. It’s an honor, and I just want to build off of that and help this team win.”

That same week, Neal set a career-best 57 assists in a five-set win over Incarnate Word.

She also had 25 assists in each of her matches against Texas A&MInternational and Texas Women’s University.

While playing against A&M-International, she had two service aces and three kills. She also had three kills against Incarnate Word and four more against TWU. Neal helped shoulder the disappointment when the Lions had a four game winning streak snapped in a 3-1 loss against Southern Arkansas on Oct. 11th.

“The game against Southern Arkansas was a complete madhouse,”

she said. “The crowd was yelling rude things, such as calling us demeaning names and telling us that we suck. Later on in the evening, we started having fun with them.

Anytime we would do something good on the court, we would just turn and smile or wave at them, just to keep it classy. The refs and line judges were on Arkansas’ side so it was us six against the entire gym.”

Jordan said she would like a re-match against West Texas A&M, whom the Lions played earlier this year.

“The match I was looking forward to the most at the start of the year was against the top West Texas team,” she said. “I wish we could go back and play them again. I want to play them again because it was still so early in the season and our team was still working on connecting with each other. Now that we have figured each other out, playing the number one team in the conference would be fun for us because we would definitely be the biggest fight for them to stay on top.”

Neal said she and her teammates still keep the same pre-game rituals they began at the season’s start.

“Before games, we usually have dance parties to warm up,” Neal said. “I don’t get much into the dancing, but a lot of the girls will just crank up some music and dance to it because it gets everyone in a good mood and gets everyone excited.

As for me, before every game, I always have to

Page 11 put my left sock on first, then my right sock and I do the same thing with my knee pads. I also wear my lucky headband before every game. I guess I’m a little superstitious.”

The season is nearly halfway over, but the team is still building chemistry amongst themselves.

“Looking back at the season, I don’t really have one particular favorite memory so far this season, but I will always cherish the experience,” Neal said. “I’ve gotten the chance to meet new people and make close new friends, so that’s been the best part of it all.”

One of the friends Neal made is teammate Morgan Moeller. Moeller is an outside hitter playing in her second year as a Lion and said she has confidence in her newest teammate.

“Jordan Neal is an essential part of our team and respectively a young leader,” Moeller said.

“She is involved in every single play we make, so we naturally trust and rely on her decisions she makes on the court.

Coming in as a starting freshman setter, she’s had to mature into college volleyball quickly, and she has done so with poise. Jordan is an extraordinary leader and a huge influence on our team.”

After graduation, Neal plans to obtain a graduate degree in English and eventually become a teacher and a volleyball coach. Until that time, she aspires to continue leading the Lions to victory.

Mustangs take down Lions 3-1 JUSTIN CHEATHAM STAFF WRITER The A&M-Commerce volleyball team lost its match Thursday against the Midwestern State University Mustangs three sets to one.

“We started the match up 9-2 and the weird thing about volleyball is the things that make people good are the hardest to get people to do,” Head Coach Craig Case said.

“I’m always trying to get them to talk more and hustle more, and do all these things that are not really second nature to this young team yet. It was really frustrating that we started so strong and then we just kind of tapered off, but hopefully we can bounce back this Sunday and get a ‘W.’” The Lions took an early lead only to drop the first set to the Mustangs 25-22.

MSU capitalized on their momentum coming out of game one with a 25-11 victory over the Lions.

“They waited too long

to get started,” senior John Purnell said. “They need to be like starving lions, hungry for a win from the beginning.”

During the third set, the Lions rallied to a 25-23 win, but the Mustangs ended the game in the fourth set with a 25-16 victory.

“We are going to spend this week watching film from tonight,” Case said.

“We’re not going to beat ourselves up about the loss; it’s not going to do us any good to panic.

It’s frustrating because the team almost doesn’t understand that we only have six practices and seven matches left in the season. It’s just not registering with them even though I keep telling them that. That’s another problem with having a young team; they don’t have the same sense of urgency.”

The Lions struggled on defense, being out-dug 64-57 and out-blocked 8-5.

“We got beat on defense,” freshman Jordan Neal said. “There was no

communication on our team and we didn’t play with enough heart.”

Case is looking past the loss and forward to the next game.

“We’re going to show up tomorrow and get back to work, make things happen. We have to figure out how to focus on what we are doing and not what we are not doing. We need to get that team that wins on the road to win at home.”

Though the Lions lost, students came out to support them in new and unusual ways. A group calling themselves “The Pride” showed up at the game in face paint and bizarre outfits. The group said they are tired of students not showing pride in A&M-Commerce sports teams and are trying to change that trend.

“Even though we lost today, the girls should feel Freshman Brionna Minde attempts to get away from a Southwestern Oklahoma player during a 0-0 draw. like they had a star performance,” sophomore Tyler Hemenway said. “The loss can’t be blamed on lack continued from page 12 cross went over the net.

by Rusk to finish out a of spirit.”

Later in the match, a cross high tempo affair. from about 10 yards out. from freshman Tareyn “I thought we respondThe goal was Herrman’s Blanton nearly went in off ed well,” Piper said about the head of Haight, but conceding a goal so late. day and all day today, it’s fifth of the season.

“I brought it down the ball inched just wide “In the first overtime, just brutal on our minds,” from my chest, took a of the net. we were still stunned.

Stenta said about getting touch,” McCarty said.

Just as the Lions looked I thought in the second through the game and to be wrapping up a cruovertime we worked our weekend. “But we stayed “All week we’ve been practicing, looking for cial win, UCO found their tails off and deserved focus and ended up pullthat diagonal ball. I saw second equalizing goal off a winner.” ing out a victory. We’ve Devon [Herrman].

She of a beauty from Morris.

With three shots, two had a few downfalls this was about 20 yards from The junior got control of of which were on goal, year, haven’t done as well goal, but I knew she’d the ball on the right flank and an assist, McCarty as we thought we would, make that run. I just and sent a curling shot was easily one of the but we’re not the team to kicked it and tried to in from 20 yards out that main catalysts for A&Mgive up. We’re going to angle it so she could run just snuck into the near Commerce throughout come out and fight hard, onto it. She’s strong in the post. With the score at 2-2 the game. and give it all we’ve got until the last whistle’s air and just finished at the end of regulation, “She played well,” done.” for us.”

A&M-Commerce went Piper said. “The way Morriss said he wants Right after the goal, into overtime for the secboth teams played, both to see more urgency from the Bronchos nearly came ond time in a matter of attacked and left the midhis team in the future. back a second time. Junior days. field open. She had loads “I think we feel like if Katy Kashwer rushed in The first overtime of room in there, and she we don’t take advantage on a through ball only period was fairly subdid well. The second goal of the first opportunity, to see her shot saved by dued. Walker got the best was great.” we’ve got another one a charging Hafele. The chance for UCO when her coming. I don’t think they ball deflected back to header went just wide Master’s Graduation understand every time Keshwer, and her second of the Lions’ goal. As Gown, size 5’3” to 5’6”, we touch the football, we shot was headed off the the second half moved the Master’s Cap, tassle need to score. That should line by senior defender closer to the end, A&Mand hood for business be our goal.”

Megan Monroe.

Commerce was able to majors for sale ASAP. The Lions now go to McCarty nearly went pile on some pressure. In Excellent shape. $20 for the University of Central from provider to scorer the end, a Herrman corner all. Call Cindy Summers Oklahoma on Saturday when her header off a kick was punched away at 903-408-0658. at 2:00 p.m.

Football loses on stormy weekend continued from page 12 heavy rain, strong winds, and golf ball sized hail.

The match officials and Southwestern Oklahoma wanted to call the game, but A&M-Commerce did not want to throw in the towel yet. About 30 minutes before an 8:00 p.m. deadline, the all-clear signal was given and play resumed.

Just two plays after the restart was all A&MCommerce needed to get back into the game, as Stenta fumbled the ball on a quarterback draw and junior Tremaine Williams picked it up for a 30-yard touchdown run to make the score 17-10 with 11:17 left in the game.

“Where was all that passion, excitement and energy at two o’clock?”

Morriss said. “We’re not good enough to keep giving them opportunity after opportunity and not take

advantage of our opportunities when we get them.

That’s frustrating to me.”

The Bulldogs had to punt on their next possession, and A&MCommerce had two chances to win it. Freshman wide receiver Kenzee Jackson’s touchdown catch was called back due to a holding penalty and senior Julian Hayes dropped a pass with an open field in front of him.

That forced a punt, but the Lions did get the ball back quickly, only for Farkes to fumble the snap on the first play of the next drive to put the Bulldogs at the Lions 27-yard line.

Stenta closed the game out with a 27-yard touchdown run to make the score 24-10. The red-shirt freshman went 19-39 for 223 yards and one touchdown in passing on the night. He also rushed 11 times for 76 yards.

“Waiting all day yester-

Bronchos score late in tie

Page 12

sports

Thursday, Oct. 28, 2010

www.theeasttexan.com

LSC Football Scores: East Central, 20 Southeastern Oklahoma, 19 Central Oklahoma, 28 Northeastern State, 39 Incarnate Word, 17 Angelo State, 61 Midwestern State, 29 West Texas A&M, 42 A&M-Kingsville, 13 Tarleton State, 10 Southwestern Oklahoma, 24 A&M-Commerce, 10

Standings North Division 1) N’eastern State, 5-3 (4-0) 2) East Central, 3-5 (3-1) 3) SE Oklahoma, 3-5 (2-3) 4) Eastern NM, 3-5 (2-2) 5) SW Oklahoma, 2-6 (2-3) 6) Central Oklahoma, 2-6 (1-3) 7) A&M-Commerce, 2-6 (1-3)

A&M-Commerce freshman wide receiver Kenzee Jackson tries to evade Southwestern’s Cliff Nyagesiba. Jackson had 10 catches for 101 yards.

Unusual homecoming ends in loss ADAM TROXTELL SPORTS EDITOR The A&M-Commerce football team dropped a 24-10 decision to the Lone Star Conference North Division’s last placed Southwestern Oklahoma State University in a game marred by severe weather.

The original start time of 2:00 p.m. on Saturday was initially postponed for later that day after the Thorguard system detected lightning in the vicinity. After six hours of waiting for the skies to clear, the decision was made to move the game to Sunday with the same kickoff time.

“I’ve had several rain delays, but something like an hour and then resume play; not a twoday deal,” Lions Head Coach Guy Morriss said about the delays. “It’s kind of a distraction, and the kids lose their focus.

But, it’s the same in that locker room across the way as it is for us and it’s just a matter of how you handle it and how you come out and respond once play resumes.”

A&M-Commerce started with the ball,

both teams traded punts, and on the Lions’ second offensive drive of the game they got the first real chance to put points on the board. After driving the ball down to the Bulldogs’ 30-yard line, sophomore kicker Ahmed Abo-Mahmood missed a 36-yard field goal attempt wide-left.

Southwestern turned the miss into a lead on their next drive. After a 14-play, 75-yard drive, senior Dwight Pete was stopped twice by A&MCommerce. That forced the Bulldogs to bring out the special teams and sophomore Colton Rainey kicked a 21-yard field goal to put the visitors up 3-0, and that score held to the end of the first quarter.

Lions sophomore running back London Hamilton was the big contributor on the next drive. He ran the ball six consecutive times to help set A&M-Commerce up for a 24-yard field goal try. After missing the first one, Abo-Mahmood planted this kick right down the middle to tie the game up 3-3 with 13:52 left in the first half.

The only remaining action of the first half

came off of a special teams mistake by A&MCommerce. When setting up to punt, the ball was sent flying over freshman punter Cameron Frosch’s head. Frosch quickly dove on top of the ball, but it resulted in a turnover on downs to give the Bulldogs possession starting at the Lions’ 38-yard line.

However, Southwestern was unable to make the good field position count.

After seven plays that took 2:14 off the clock, Rainey missed his kick of 32 yards and kept the score tied at 3-3 going into halftime.

It was a slow start to the third quarter, with both teams punting on the first four possessions of the game. Finally, with 4:55 left in the quarter, it was the visitors who put up the first touchdown of the game. Freshman wide receiver Jordan Davis combined with red-shirt freshman quarterback Dustin Stenta for a 53-yard touchdown.

After the extra point, the Bulldogs took a 10-3 lead with 4:55 left in the third quarter.

On the next drive, A&M-Commerce senior

quarterback Adam Farkes threw his first interception of the night when senior Jaron Burgess caught his pass in the middle of the field and pitched the ball back to junior corner back Marvin Tribble. Once again, the Bulldog offense was not able to capitalize, and Rainey missed the field goal for the second time on the night, this time from 31 yards.

After a promising first few plays for the Lions offense on their next possession, tragedy struck again when a fumble resulted in a second consecutive turnover for the Lions offense. This time Southwestern did capitalize, and they did so quickly. It took one play for junior running back Isaac Tucker to run 29 yards and give the visitors a 17-3 lead.

The Lions were forced to punt on their next drive, and SWOSU got one play in before the Thorguard system went off, indicating strong storms in the area and suspending play. The delay lasted over three hours, and included

South Division 1) Abilene Christian, 8-0 (4-0) 2) A&M-Kingsville, 7-1 (4-1) 3) West Texas A&M, 6-2 (3-1) 4) Midwestern State, 6-2 (2-2) 5) Angelo State, 3-4 (1-4) 6) Tarleton State, 2-6 (1-3) 7) Incarnate Word, 2-6 (0-4)

Box Score:

Tarleton v. A&M-Commerce SWOSU.........3.....0......7...14_24 A&M-C.........0.....3......0.....7_10 First Quarter SWOSU_FG Rainey 21, 1:33 Second Quarter A&M-C_FG Abo-Mahmood 25, 12:52 Third Quarter SWOSU_Davis 53 pass from Stenta (Rainey kick), 4:55 Fourth Quarter SWOSU_Tucker 29 run (Rainey kick), 13:14 A&M-C_T. Williams 30 fumble recovery (Abo-Mahmood kick), 11:17 SWOSU_Stenta 27 run (Rainey kick), 3:17 SWOSU A&M-C First Downs..........21...........20.....

Total Yards..........414.........321....

Rushes-Yards....37-191....35-57..

Passing.................223.........264....

Punt Returns........1-0........4-15...

Kickoff Returns...2-40.......3-70...

Interceptions........2-45........0-0....

Comp-Att-Int...19-39-0...21-39-2 Sack-Yds Lost.......1-4........2-16...

Fumbles-Lost........1-1.........2-2....

Penalties-Yds......9-90........9-80...

TOP.....................30:09......26:34..

Punts-Yds...........7-232......7-222.

Four goal thriller ends in Lions draw ADAM TROXTELL SPORTS EDITOR

The Lions women’s soccer team ended their match in a draw for the second time in a week Friday night with a 2-2 result against the University of Central Oklahoma at the A&MCommerce Soccer Field.

“A draw was probably a fair result,” A&MCommerce Head Coach Neil Piper said. “Both teams went for it, both teams wanted to try and win. It’s sickening we gave up a goal with a minute left, but we didn’t execute.

They kept the pressure on.

The game’s 90 minutes for a reason.”

A&M-Commerce senior Chelsey Haight opened the scoring in the twentieth minute of play. After gathering the ball at the top of the box, Haight took the ball down the right side of the net and applied a sliding finish, sending the ball up and over junior goalkeeper Samantha Rusk for the see Football page 11 1-0 lead for her team lead-

ing seventh goal of the season.

With just over 10 minutes left in the first half, the Bronchos grabbed an equalizer. Not for the first time in the match, the Lions found themselves scrambling to get the ball out of their penalty area.

The ball ended up penballing off of various sets of legs, and Lions junior goalkeeper Randi Hafele looked to have gotten on top of it. Somehow, the ball squirmed out, and UCO junior Ashton Morris sent the low shot underneath Hafele and into the net, tying the score 1-1.

The second half was much more action-packed, and the Lions took advantage early. Junior Jordan McCarty found herself in space in the middle of the park, and sent a perfect cross to the left side of the box. Fellow junior Devon Herrman was there to get on the end of it and headed the ball up and over the goalkeeper and into the far side of the net see Bronchos page 11

Lions beat Cameron in four sets COLTON BLACK STAFF WRITER Texas A&M University-Commerce’s Lions volleyball team won their match against the Cameron University Aggies 3-1 on Sunday, Oct. 24, pushing their record to 11-12 overall, and 3-7 in the Lone Star Conference.

The Lions started off with the lead in set one 3-0. The teams exchanged leads a few times, but the Lions gained the advantage, forcing the Aggies to use both of their timeouts, and went on to win 25-18.

Set two started off with the Aggies winning, but ended up a close competition throughout the game. Sophomore Rachel Robertson hit a strategic kill to tie the game 9-9 and allowed the Lions to create some momentum in their favor.

Then, down 22-20, the Lions called a timeout to

regroup. From that point, the Lions and Aggies went back and forth with the lead until the Lions finally won the set 30-28.

Coming into the third set, the Lions’ offense slowed despite getting the first points on the board. Down 10-4, the Lions called a timeout and were able to rally back and bring the score within one. But the Aggies prevailed in the third set, winning 25-20 and forcing a fourth set.

In the fourth set, the Lions took the lead and maintained it throughout the set. Robertson, with 12 total kills and senior Terra Ousley with 11 total kills, helped lead the team to a 25-17 victory to clinch the match.

“The win is a good thing because it will contribute to going to the conference tournament,” freshman Chelsea Simonton said.

While the Lions were successful in adding

another match to the win column, Head Coach Craig Case knows they still have places where they need to improve on defensive duties.

“We have got to serve better,” Case said. “We are not used to long rallies and we are not putting enough pressure on first contact.”

Case and his players are both seeing some of the same problems that need adjusting on the team.

“We could improve our service for sure,” sophomore Reagan Hayes said.

The win at home is another factor that Case is proud of regarding his young team, composed of 12 freshman and sophomores and only four juniors and seniors.

“We are really strong on the road, so playing well at home is a big positive,” Case said. “The thing we did really well is that we played steady.”

Senior Terra Ousley attempts to spike the ball against Cameron University in the Lions’ win last Sunday.