Collegian Programming For Success Capstone T he Cameron University
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Monday, March 27, 2017
Volume 96 Issue 6
Vicky Smith
Graphic by Jacob Jardel Photo by Christopher Reif
“Database is the backend,” he said, “and the CS team [is] doing the web portion. That’s the Staff Writer front end.” Cameron University students enrolled in Although Wolfe may receive instruction a spring interdisciplinary course are in the from his professors, he and his fellow process of developing a web application for the classmates are responsible for facilitating United States Army Department of Defense communication amongst themselves. at Fort Sill. “The instructor is not in here telling you The capstone classes for information how to do it,” he said. “If you have a question, technology (IT), computer science you can go to the instructor, but it’s really up (CS), multimedia (MM) comprise the to the students.” interdisciplinary course. English students Senior information technology major are also a part of the project as part of their Ayo Kumni, the assistant project lead for internship. team two, said her primary job is to fulfill Once the students complete the web administrative tasks. applications, Cameron University students “We have to make sure everyone working will have contributed to the technical is putting in hours and getting virtual pay for organization of the United States Army what they do,” she said. Department of Defense. Dakotah Chander, a junior management Instructors Dave Smith, Dr. Chao Zhao, information systems major, serves as an IT Dr. Abbas Johari and Dr. William Carney, lead, a position for which his previous classes operate the class as though it is a software prepared him. company. They serve in virtual positions such “I took Database last semester, so that as chief executive officer, chief information helped significantly,” he said. “Other than officer, chief knowledge officer and chief data that, I’ve had a lot of knowledge in different officer. operating systems and just basic knowledge of Smith assigned two students to be project computers.” leads whose duty is to collaborate with two After both products are complete, client separate groups of students, who are building Linda Paridon, a supervisor and process two different versions of the same product. improvement lead for the FIRES Division of Psychology major Randy Wolfe, the project CECOM Army Materiel Command on Fort lead for team two, said several subgroups, Sill, and her decision chief will decide which including a database team management team, version they like best. Alternatively, if they a CS team, a security team and a MM team, desire, they can choose to combine the two comprise the main group. versions into one. Paridon said the product is a web application that will process library assets. “Employees in the organization can use it to help them do their work, to drive process improvement efforts [and] to help new employees … understand how they work in the organization,” she said. According to Paridon, both versions of
students design software for Dept. of Defense
the web application must meet to the same standards. “They only have four and a half months to complete the project and to be able to handle all the requirements,” she said. “Both teams, I’ve heard them talking, and they’re all working together. They’re taking pride in the school. They’re taking pride in their project.” She said this project is significant because students gain hands-on experience as opposed to reading about project management without a context. “They are doing virtual dollars,” Paridon said, “so they are telling us, ‘We’ve already spent 18,000 dollars worth of your money.’ They relate that to the real world, and this is a real-world project.” She said this project is an asset as students make their way into the job market. Their experience in working on this project will demonstrate their ability to operate within a team and use soft skills to communicate with others. “Hopefully we’ll have some employees in the future who want to work for the Army,” she said. As the students work, Paridon provides them with feedback as questions or obstacles arise. “It’s just a pleasure to work with the class,” she said. “They’re our future leaders, and I just love to see the growth in them and the smiles when they solve something.”
What’s inside Speaker gives story of hope and survival
Guerilla’s new game on the Horizon
Ranking the biggest March upsets
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News
March 27, 2017
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Bombing survivor shares story
Photo by Alexsis Page
Survivor’s tale: Rebekah Gregory spoke to Cameron and the Lawton community about living meaningfully after surviving the Boston Marathon bombing. Her book, which hits stands April 4, focuses on telling her life story before the bombing from the perspective on life she developed as a survivor.
Jacob Jardel
from which the Cameron community could learn. Managing Editor “It’s important for those @JJardel_Writing of us who are so far removed from national events like the Boston Marathon Boston Marathon bombing bombing survivor Rebekah to gain an understanding of Gregory spoke about what how life can change in an she called “The Best and instant,” Pruchnicki said. Worst Day of My Life” at 6 Gregory said she p.m. on March 8 in the MCC remembers everything from Ballroom. that day. She was with her Cameron University son Noah at the finish line Lectures and Concerts helped sponsor the program, on Boylston Street when the bomb went off three feet which was free of charge to away from them. She was the public. Gregory talked pinned to the ground but about her experiences after focused on finding her son surviving the bombing and most of all. the lessons she learned Gregory said it was the through the associated strife scariest moment of her life. and trauma. “I thought for sure I was Director of Student going to die on the street Development Dr. Jennifer that day,” she said. “I even Pruchnicki said Gregory’s said a prayer: ‘God, if this is story of tragedy, triumph my time, take me, but let me and perseverance serves know Noah’s okay.’ A few as a source of inspiration
minutes later, in peripheral vision, I could see Noah – physically see him – and he was alright. “I was thinking, ‘Oh, my, I really am going to die today.’” Her leg took the brunt of the impact away from Noah, who received cuts on his leg and head along with intestinal bleeding. After 18 surgeries and 65 procedures, including an amputation of her left leg, Gregory was out of the hospital but far from the life she knew before the attack. “My entire life changed,” she said. “You can never go back to your old life, and sometimes that’s really difficult. I remember everything I saw that day. … It still hurts to talk about because those are the visions that I have in every one of my nightmares.”
However, for her, this time of great tragedy eventually became what she said was one of the best days of her life. “Before that, I took everything I had in my life for granted,” Gregory said. “I went about my day, and I just survived. On April 15, 2013, I could have died – I should have died. But what really happened was I started living. Now I appreciate everything in my life so much more.” She now uses the experiences she went through as a vehicle for inspiring others. She said her main goal is to instill hope to those around her. “To me, because I’m still here, I feel like I need to lead a more meaningful life,” she said. “With the obstacles I’ve been given and the decisions that I’ve been dealt, I want to
try and inspire as many other people as I can.” Gregory compiled her stories of survival and adjustment into her book entitled “Taking My Life Back.” This book culminates a goal she set for herself at age 10: to write a book before she turned 30. However, the book dives into more than just the bombing. “This book really exposes me as a person,” she said, “and the struggles that I had way before the bombing ever happened in my life. By doing that, I hope that’s even more reason for someone to gain strength from my story.” She also said she wants her readers and audiences to hear her story and walk away with the inspiration to take on another day. “I think we get into such
a routine in life,” she said. “I want to remind people of what they already know – that life is beautiful. There’s so much to live for. It’s also short, so we need to enjoy it while we have it, because you don’t know when you’re going to lose it for good.” After the talk, audience members had the opportunity to meet Gregory. She said these moments help her continue the adjustment process. “I leave so much more inspired and encouraged,” she said.“As much as other people need healing or my message of hope, I need their message, too. I consider myself so honored and humbled to be able to experience and meet so many people.” Gregory’s book“Taking My Life Back” is set to hit shelves April 4.
Forensics team clinches state tourney Jacob Jardel
Managing Editor
@JJardel_Writing The Cameron Speech and Debate Team concluded their penultimate tournament of the season with a top finish at the Oklahoma Intercollegiate Forensics Association State Tournament from March 3-5 in Oklahoma City. The squad competed against 12 other colleges and universities throughout the state. Claiming multiple titles and honors individually en route to first-place titles in Individual Events, Debate and Combined sweepstakes, the team finished ahead of competitors from the University of Oklahoma and Northeastern University. Director of Forensics Sarah Collins said she was proud of the team for following up on their success from last year’s state tournament. “We set a goal at the beginning of this season to defend our state championship titles,” Collins said in a press release. “The students have worked very hard toward that goal. They did an outstanding job this weekend, and it was great getting to see their hard work pay off.” In Parliamentary Debate, the teams of Alex Amos/Kris Mayfield and Cody Jackson/Teague Fox both defeated teams from the University of Oklahoma to reach the final
round, resulting in a closeout that named both teams co-state champions. In addition, senior Sav Price earned second-place honors in this event. Fox also earned the title of state champion in Lincoln Douglas Debate, while Jackson placed fourth in the event. Furthering their success on the day, Price earned the state championship in Informative Speaking. They also placed fourth in Programmed Oral Interpretation (POI) and seventh in Impromptu Speaking en route to a fifth-place pentathlon win. Price credited their success to the time and effort Collins puts into the team as a whole. “She pushes and supports us to be the best we can be and helps to create an environment we can thrive in,” Price said. Mayfield also placed in POI, earning sixth. Amos finished as the state champion in Impromptu. For Duo Interpretation, Mayfield and senior Savanna Sanders earned the state championship, while freshmen Rachael Rowe and Dallas Strong placed fourth. The four also finished in the Top Six for Poetry Interpretation, with Sanders winning the event and Mayfield, Strong and Rowe earning fourth-, fifth- and sixth-places (respectively). Mayfield also won the state
championship in After Dinner Speaking, while Sanders also earned state in Dramatic Interpretation and Persuasive Speaking. Strong placed second in Persuasive, earning him and Sanders a berth in the Interstate Oratory Association Tournament in April – the third consecutive year where two Aggies earned this honor. For Strong, it was the culmination of hard work he put in during his first year doing competitive forensics. He said he was proud of the team’s efforts as a whole and hopes to use that momentum to build on while going into the next season. “I’m ready to put in the work I need to and have that show,” Strong said. Mayfield’s efforts in his tournament earned him a fourthplace finish in pentathlon and the OIFA State Championship Belt for his performance in both individual events and debate. He said earning the belt was his goal after seeing the unique air of swagger surrounding the title, complete with theme music and associated raucous ovations. He said that day provided him with a tangible goal, one he mentioned frequently, especially in banter between him and his friend – last year’s title winner. “Having that concrete goal and
Photo courtesy of Sarah Collins
Berth of awards: The CU Speech and Debate Team pose behind their numerous awards at the OK Intercollegiate Forensics Association State Tournament on March 3-5 in Oklahoma City. motivation to win is a major key to my success,” Mayfield said. “I talked so much about it at the start of the year, that for the rest of the year my team would bring it up whenever I felt discouraged. It added another layer of accountability.” Mayfield’s Duo Interpretation partner provided her own championship performance. Sanders’ success in multiple events earned her the state championship pentathlon award. This honor culminated an emotional weekend for the senior competing in her final state
tournament. She said she did her best to enjoy it and let everything else happen as it may. “Once it did, I couldn’t be happier with the results,” Sanders said. “More than anything, I’m proud of my team. My achievements mean nothing without their support to get me there.” The Forensics team entered their final stretch of their season at the Pi Kappa Delta National Tournament from March 17-26 in Boise, Idaho. Details on the team’s finish will be in the next issue of the Collegian.
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Voices
March 27, 2017
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Complexities & Congruence The many facets of trans lives
Tribune News Service
Waiting in line: Trans student Avery Kaplan poses in a hallway at Haven Middle School in Evanston, Ill. He was one of many youth under protection from recentlylifted federal guidlines stating trans individuals could use the bathroom of the gender with which they identify – not the sex listed on their birth certificates. From bathroom concerns to stringent rules and regulations in other arenas, laws regarding trans people oversimplify the complex realities of living life as a trans individual.
Jacob Jardel
Managing Editor
@JJardel_Writing One of the most problematic things about viral content is the language creators and sharers use when titling or describing something. Oftentimes, when someone makes a point they feel nullifies an opposing viewpoint, they will use some variation or synonym of the word “destroy” to describe the gravity of argument’s point – regardless of whether or not the point achieves this effect. Take, for example, a February 2017 video from Daily Wire Editor-in-Chief Ben Shapiro titled “Ben Shapiro DESTROYS Transgenderism and ProAbortion Arguments.” In it, the Harvard Law grad answers a series of questions from an audience member at a speaking engagement, citing court cases and traditional thought processes to make his point that being trans is an affront to a traditional definition of the natural biological order. One of his answers to an audience question elaborated on how identifying as trans is a sign of a mental health disorder, citing Gender Identity Disorder, now called Gender Dysphoria. In short, these disorders describe the ill effects of an incongruence between biological sex and gender identity. However, where Shapiro falters in his argument is the twisting of the definition – ironically, in parts regarding biology. The fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5) provides criteria for Gender Dysphoria (eight for children, six for adults and adolescents), all of which must have lasted at least six months. Of these 14, four involve biophysiological
aspects of the disorder. The common theme of these specifications was summed up in the seventh criterion: “A strong dislike of one’s sexual anatomy.” In his video, Shapiro wishes luck to people suffering through dysphoria but implies that the solution is to regain congruence between gender identity and sexual anatomy. This idea could not be further from the truth, since it assumes there was a congruence to start. More importantly, it fails to consider the four biophysiological criteria contribute to the definition of gender dysphoria – criteria that resolve only with altering physical biology. Despite these flaws in logic, though, there continues to be a stigma toward trans individuals, one that typically manifests from fear. Whether it is fear of the ambiguous, fear of the atypical or fear of social contagion, the stigma permeates many parts of society. In some cases, it leads to hate speech, intentional misgendering and confusion stemming from pedantic interpretations of rules. In others, this stigma can lead to biased double binds in the name of morality. One such example is the story of female-to-male trans boy Mack Beggs. Because of recently-enacted regulations that required studentathletes to compete under the sex listed on their birth certificates, Beggs wrestled in and won the state title in the Texas girl’s wrestling division. Upon his win, boos echoed through the gym just as much as cheers. Commenters on social media websites referenced Beggs while intentionally using feminine pronouns. Other comments speculated him of cheating, having an unfair advantage and using the new rule to his
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personal benefit. This case was just one example, though – an allegory for nationwide narratives involving the rights of trans individuals, particularly involving the use of public restrooms. Recently, White House administration lifted federal guidelines that allow trans students to use the restroom congruent to their gender identity. This regulation had counteracted bills in places like Texas and North Carolina which required trans individuals to use restrooms based on the sex listed on their birth certificate. These cases exemplify the double bind most apparently. The basis for these laws have their roots in morality, wanting to protect people – particularly women and young girls – from predators who pass off as trans. But these
regulations have caused a variety of dissonant results. One of the most prominent shows of this incongruity has been Michael Hughes’ hashtag #WeJustNeedtoPee. A 45-year-old trans man, Hughes has taken selfies of himself in women’s restrooms to show how out of place he is in that setting. Frankly, it looks like a scene many who supported the legislation morally wanted to avoid. One of the reasons the current administration lifted these regulations was to make trans-related bathroom laws a state’s rights issue. For Cameron senior Sav Price, though, this argument is a front that masks a usuallyoverlooked aspect of the fight for trans people’s rights. “It’s not about limiting federal overreach,” they said in an interview with KSWO. “It’s about isolating transgender individuals and their bodies.” Isolation is a very demonstrative concept. It puts special focus
on someone or something, for better or worse. In the case of bathroom rights, isolation leaves trans individuals in a spot that could lead to discrimination. A 2013 study from the Williams Institute found that nearly 70 percent of trans individuals experienced some sort of harassment in restrooms, with another nine percent falling victim to some sort of assault. These results do not count the 18 percent who were denied restroom access. While the survey only encompassed 93 participants from the Washington, D.C., area, these numbers could potentially generalize to trans people in other areas, especially in areas that place great value in masculine and feminine honor cultures. Meanwhile, experts from 12 states have shown no real correlation between trans bathroom access and sexual assaults – counter to the logic that fueled restroom laws. In the end, it turns out trans people just want to use the facilities in peace.
There are many other variables involved with the bathroom issues, from gender bias in protections to misconceptions of fluid gender dynamics. But they all go to show one thing: There is more to understanding trans individuals than simple comparisons and assumptions. Being trans is not a changeable state or an “ism” like racism or capitalism. It is a biological fact of life. It is an identity. It is a life somebody leads that can help bring congruence between mind and body, even amid the bullying that happens because of it. Most importantly, the trans identity is complex. No two trans experiences are the same, whether intrapersonally or interpersonally. There are so many factors that go into a trans identity that the list would be unfathomably long. But one thing is true, no matter the individual: You cannot destroy the trans identity with invalid comparisons and ill-informed logic.
Photo courtesy of Tribune News Service Graphic by Jacob Jardel
Beyond the mat: High school wrestler Mack Beggs recently won the Texas state title in his weight division to cap an undefeated season on the mat. However, because of athletic regulations in the state requiring students to participate as the sex listed on their birth certificates, Beggs competed in the women’s wrestling division – a move that drew controversy, ire and questioning from a variety of different angles. This issue is one of many that have arisen with laws regulating trans access to various services, whether bathrooms or athletics. As a whole, the problems arise despite the theoretical simplicity with which some lawmakers approach this legislation when, in fact, the dynamics of being a trans person are far more complex than many individuals observe at face value.
THE CAMERON UNIVERSITY
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Editorial Staff
The opinions expressed in The Collegian pages or personal columns are those of the signed author. The unsigned editorial under the heading “Voices” represents the opinion of the majority of the editorial board. The opinions expressed in The Collegian do not necessarily represent those of Cameron University or the state of Oklahoma.
Managing Editors - Joel Frambes and Jacob Jardel A&E Editor - Cheyenne Cole Student Life Editor - Christopher Reif Copy Editors - Stacie Larsen and Joel Frambes Assistant Editors - Stacie Larsen and Payton Williams Aggie Central Editor- Jeff Larson
Our student media are designated public forums, and free from censorship and advance approval of content. Because content and funding are unrelated, and because the role of adviser does not include advance review of content, student media are free to develop editorial policies and news coverage with the understanding that students and student organizations speak only for themselves. Administrators, faculty, staff or other agents shall not consider the student media’s content when making decisions regarding the media’s funding or faculty adviser.
Financial Officer - Susan Hill Staff Writers - Robert King, Justin Reff, Vicky Smith Markel Turrell, Jonathan Vann, Payton Williams Photographer - Christopher Reif Advertising Manager - Jacob Jardel Faculty Adviser - Mr. David Bublitz
Newsroom Staff
Letters Policy
Letters to the editor will be printed in the order in which they are received and on a space available basis. The Collegian reserves the right to edit all letters for content and length. Letters should be no more than 250 words. Letters from individual authors will be published only once every four weeks. All letters from students should include first and last names, classification and major. No nicknames will be used. Letters from people outside the Cameron community should include name, address and phone number for verification. Letters can be sent by regular mail, by e-mail to aggiecentral@cameron. edu or they may be dropped off at our office - Academic Commons 101 or at www.aggiecentral.com.
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A&E
March 27, 2017
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‘La La Land’
Chazelle’s charming feel-good musical Alexsis Page Staff Writer
In April, movie fans can purchase the Oscarwinning film ‘La La Land’ on DVD and Blu-ray to find out if the movie deserved its 14 Academy Award nominations. “La La Land” was a modern day musical that followed the highs and lows of trying to break into the entertainment industry through the experiences of Mia (Emma Stone) and Sebastian (Ryan Gosling) whose paths crossed after one fateful night. As months went by, Mia and Sebastian began a relationship that blossomed while taking individual steps to further their careers. The entire film took place in Los Angeles, Calif., which acted as the third lead character. The lifestyle of people in the entertainment industry and those trying to join was prevalent throughout the entire movie. “La La Land” was writer and director Damien Chazelle’s second theatrical release to earn Academy Award nominations. In 2014, Chazelle’s “Whiplash” won Best Sound Mixing and Best Film Editing. “La La Land” was similar to “Whiplash,” with jazz music heavily influencing both the main characters and plot. Chazelle incorporated both traditional musical-style filming and more fantastic visual effects. This combination made for varying types of dance sequences. One of the traditional dance sequences in the film was shot during sunset, the magic hour of filming, all in one take using a single camera. Another dance sequence,
which was set in the Griffith Observatory, started out like a normal musical number until the scene smoothly transitioned into a zero-gravity dance. The visual effects were simple but still breathtaking enough to add a magical element to the film. Moments like this one happened throughout “La La Land,” which could only be accomplished by a millennial director with a strong passion for 1950s musicals like “Singin’ in the Rain,” which Chazelle attributes as one of his many inspirations. This film marked the third time Stone and Gosling have played romantically linked characters, and their chemistry is undeniable. Previously, both starred in “Crazy Stupid Love” and “Gangster Squad.” For a majority of the film, Mia and Sebastian were together, which makes for entertaining scenes, but that enjoyment doesn’t stop when the characters are separated. Stone did a great job of showing a vulnerable side of Mia, who, throughout the film, went to audition after audition with little success. Mia laid it all on the table, and Stone showed this effort without portraying her as a weak female lead.
On top of this, audiences still got Stone’s trademark charm and humor that comes naturally when she is on screen due to the actress’ comedic background. But the charm did not end with Mia. Gosling played Sebastian as a likable guy with a passion for jazz. During the film, he became the guy audiences want to root for.
Graphic by Cheyenne Cole
Gosling added depth to the character by showing Sebastian’s internal struggle to stick with his passion of playing jazz music or to conform to the standard genres that will pay the bills. Both characters have wants and needs throughout the film, and both actors did a great job of showing the advantages and disadvantages of working in the
entertainment industry. “La La Land” opens with a dance number set on a Los Angeles highway where cars were stuck in traffic. Dancers tap-danced on cars and played an array of instruments all while singing about their dreams and aspirations, which immediately set the tone. But there was a disconnect between the music and singing. The music was upbeat and catchy when it needed to be, and once leaving the theater, many audience
It was not unbearable, but it was definitely not memorable. Sebastian only had one song that showcased his voice, seeing as he began and ended the song. Ultimately, the song is a duet with Mia, who got the better notes. Gosling was stuck singing the typical male bass part, leaving no room for his range to shine. Meanwhile, Stone did not have enough range in her voice for the melodramatic song. Mia sang the big climax song that, in most films, would members get the most recognition. may have found In this film, however, it fell themselves flat literally and figuratively. humming a song According to the Internet or two from the Movie Database, Stone sang film. live with headphones in her The music ears so she could hear the made use of classic melody played by a piano off musical and jazz screen. instruments like Stone decided on the spot horns and pianos. when to switch from singing Every song sounded the lyrics to speaking them. unique, tapped into It would have been a better specific emotions and performance if it was recorded matched perfectly in a studio. with the scenery on Throughout the film, screen. there was no ballad or unique The disconnect came singing moment that stood out from the singing voices, that would make the viewer specifically from the two lead want to buy the soundtrack, let characters. alone listen to the singing. In no way are Stone and It is a feel-good movie to Gosling career singers, and it watch if musicals are a guilty showed in “La La Land,” but pleasure. this was not the duo’s first time This year, “La La Land” dipping in music. won six out of its 14 Academy Stone played Sally Bowles Award nominations, but in my in “Cabaret” on Broadway from opinion, the film only deserved August 2014 to March 2015. Best Director, Best Actress, Gosling was a member of the Best Cinematography and Best indie rock group “Dead Man’s Original Score. It should not Body.” have won for Best Original Those experiences did not Song or Best Production prepare either lead with the Design. skills to sing all original songs Overall, I give the film 8 out in a musical style. of 10 stars.
Bright dawn for Guerilla’s ‘Horizon’ Jacob Jardel
from the Matriarchs and redacts outcast status. A montage shows Aloy training in Managing Editor different ways before cutting to an older @JJardel_Writing version of her making use of Rost’s teachings. In a gaming landscape of reboots, While players regain control for a few franchises bordering on complacency and missions leading up to the Proving, the meat flatly-executed new approaches, occasionally of the story begins at the rite of passage. a new intellectual property (IP) will rise Tragic events at the conclusion of the event up and make a name for itself among the lead the Nora Matriarchs to enable Aloy with stalwarts of the medium. authority to explore and solve the mysteries Such is the case with “Horizon Zero surrounding the events at the Proving. Dawn,” the newest IP for Playstation 4 At this point, players have full control from developer Guerilla Games that hit of Aloy and gain full access of the expansive shelves Feb. 28. Best known for “Killzone,” map to complete various main quests and side a first-person shooter (FPS) franchise, the quests that help with unfolding the narrative. Dutch company branched out in a completely The biggest flaw of “Horizon Zero different direction with this game. Dawn” is the repetition of the gameplay “Horizon Zero Dawn” is a third-person throughout the unravelling storyline. A open world action role-playing game (RPG) majority of the side quests and errands set about a thousand years in the future in a include some derivation of the typical fetch post-apocalyptic landscape with sophisticated quest, which can get old after continuous machine animals and scattered people attempts at completion. sectioned into three primitive tribes: the The only other downsides of the game Nora, the Carja and the Oseram. involve random hiccups in vocal animations Players control a young woman named and various passing weather-related Aloy (Ashly Burch), an outcast of the Nora comments that get annoying relatively fast. tribe under the protection of fellow outcast This complaint is relatively minor, however, Rost (J. B. Blanc). The ostracizing of outcasts since it happens so infrequently. is a running theme throughout the game. Otherwise, “Horizon Zero Dawn” is Upon the completion of opening one of the most polished new IPs released in cinematics, players see Aloy the child at the this console’s generation. opposite end of shunning and bullying from Outside of the facial voice animations, non-outcast tribe members before she falls the visuals of this game are amazing. into a cave. Whether playing in high definition on the After further exploration, she stumbles regular PS4 or in 4K on the PS4 Pro, players upon a device called a Focus, which players cannot help but sit in awe at the beauty of use to interact with machines in the the varied landscapes. Whether tundra or environment. This ability comes into play at prairie, the settings are on point. many points in the game. The animations of the machines and This exploration piques her curiosity people throughout the landscape are equally about her past, so much so that she later amazing. All machines have distinct looks enters the Proving, a competition and rite of and movements that jump out at players both passage for becoming a Nora warrior, which literally and figuratively. It’s easy to take extra ultimately earns the victor a boon or favor time on a hunt just to stare at the beasts.
But when it’s time for action, this game does not disappoint. The battle system is simple, intuitive and very well-constructed. Players construct ammunition on the fly with what resources they are able to gather and hold. Quick crafting can help turn the tide in a battle. This system adds to the drama of fighting a hostile machine and makes victories just as satisfying. But players have the option to avoid firefights with enemies with a basic-buteffective stealth system that makes use of tall grass and lines of sight. Combined with Aloy’s bow skills and dodge rolls, taking out someone while remaining undetected is an accomplishment in itself. Really, the shining part of this whole game is Aloy’s character. Burch gives the protagonist a balance between stoicism and emotion, who never loses her inherent drive throughout the way. Her combat skills, platforming ability and character development make her into a character Lara Croft of “Tomb Raider”
would be proud of. Her interactions with the environment are also spot on. Players have the option to make a few dialogue decisions for Aloy throughout the game, but they are of no consequence. While games like “Mass Effect” and “The Walking Dead” put a lot of weight into these decisions, the relative lightness of the decision engine is a refreshing change of gravity. This lightness juxtaposes against a story of great gravity. From uncovering Aloy’s origins to discovering what caused the fate of past civilizations, players stay engaged in the storyline from beginning to poignant end - all with a soundtrack that, while understated, only adds to the gravity of the story and the various random encounters players have throughout. Overall, “Horizon Zero Dawn” proves to be one of the best new IPs Playstation has seen in a long time. An enthralling story, fantastic gameplay and near perfect ambience make for a gaming experience PS4 owners would be remiss to pass up. - 9 out of 10 Metal Shards Tribune News Service
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Sports
March 27, 2017
www.aggiecentral.com
Top upsets of March Madness Jacob Jardel
Managing Editor
@JJardel_Writing There is a reason sports fans and analysts call the NCAA men’s basketball tournament March Madness. Almost every year, there seems to be at least one major upset in the first round, with a top-tier team losing to an underdog from a smaller school. Whether they go on for a long tournament run or lose in the second round, these teams leave a lasting impression on the landscape of college basketball. What follows is a list of the Top 10 first-round upsets in the NCAA Tournament since 1985.
loss to double-digit seeds. Meanwhile, the Spiders lost big in the next round to 11 seed Washington.
8. (13) Valparaiso over (4) Ole Miss (1998) This game featured one of the most memorable game-winners in tournament history when Valpo’s Bryce Drew hit a three off a long inbound pass to beat the Rebels 70-69. The Crusaders defeated No. 12 Florida State in the next round, their only other tournament win in school history.
offense to take the 70-56 win. This formula almost led them to upset No. 6 Notre Dame, losing that match 76-75.
of its upset of a major college team. Cleveland State went as far as the Sweet 16 before losing to No. 7 Navy 71-70.
5. (15) Florida Gulf Coast over (2) Georgetown (2013)
2. (15) Santa Clara over (2) Arizona (1993)
Arguably the most exciting low seed in recent memory, FGCU turned the South Regional into Dunk City with a 78-68 win over the heavilyfavored Hoyas. The Eagles continued their exciting play all the way into the Sweet 16 before losing to No. 3 Florida 62-50.
Future NBA MVP Steve Nash made a name for himself and his school in this 64-61 win against a heavily-favored Wildcat
team. Despite late miscues at the foul line, the Broncos held onto the victory that catapulted them to the second round in their first of three NCAA tournaments.
1. (15) Richmond over (2) Syracuse (1991) The Spiders had a reputation for upsets in the NCAA tournament.
However, none were bigger than this win over a dominant Orange squad. Their 73-69 victory was the first ever win for a 15-seed over a 2-seed. It still stands as one of Syracuse coach Jim Boeheim’s biggest defeats. Even though the team lost in the next round, the 72-69 victory put Richmond on the map and proved anybody could fall victim to the madness of March.
7. No. 15 Coppin 4. (15) Middle State over No. 2 Tennessee State 10. (14) Bucknell South Carolina over (2) Michigan (1997) State (2016) over (3) Kansas (2005) In another surprising The Gamecocks’ first
Despite getting the third seed in the East Region, the Jayhawks were playing hot heading into March. Enter an upstart Bison squad who pushed the KU to the limit, defeating them 64-63. The win earned Bucknell a spot in the second round, where they lost to No. 6 Wisconsin.
loss to a double-digit seed happened in this blowout against a surprising Eagle team. The 78-65 win sealed Coppin’s status as the third ever 15-seed to defeat a No. 2. They lost to No. 10 Texas 82-81 in the next round.
Richmond took down the Gamecocks 62-61 to advance in the tournament, a win that would lead to Gamecocks coach Eddie Fogler’s firing after a second consecutive
The second-largest margin of victory in an upset, the Lumberjacks defeated the Mountaineers at their own game. SFA used a stifling defense and opportunistic
upset from 2016, the Blue Raiders won their first tournament game since 1989 against perennial powerhouse Michigan State 90-81. Aggressiveness on both sides of the ball carried MTSU to the second round, where they lost to No. 6 Syracuse 75-50.
6. (14) Stephen 3. (14) Cleveland F. Austin over 9. (14) Richmond State over (3) (3) West Virginia over (3) South Indiana (1986) (2016) Carolina (1998) The game that coined the term March Madness, this 83-79 win was the first upset of its kind in tournament history. The Vikings took down the Hoosiers in a game to remember for the gravity
Photos by Tribune News Service
Dribble and drive: Valparaiso’s Bryce Drew (center) drives the court against Florida State. Drew made the game-winning shot in Valpo’s upset against Ole Miss.
Tennis splits matches against Bearcats, TexAnns CU Sports Information The CU tennis teams came back from Spring Break to a slate of matches, including matches against Northwest Missouri and Lone Star Conference rival Tartleton State. The women swept their two games, while the men’s team dropped their set against NWU.
Northwest Missouri The No. 17 Cameron women’s tennis team beat Northwest Missouri State 6-3, while the 16 ranked men lost 8-1 to the No. 12 Bearcat men on March 21. The Aggie women started out the match up 2-1, winning two out of the three doubles matches. Zhenia Shviadok and Mathilde Thibaudat got the win in the one doubles spot 8-1, while Paula Gutierrez and Samantha Photo by Joel Frambes Wood won 8-5 in the two spot. CU Taking swings: Zhenia Shviadok sends the ball back fell in the third match by default to to her opponent. She and doubles partner Mathilde due an injury. Thibaudat split their matches on March 21 and 22. In the women’s singles matches,
all but Magdalena Kovinic in the five spot won their match to give CU four points to get the win, while NWMSU won the six spot by default as well as the five singles match. In the men’s match, CU’s only point came in the one doubles match as Felipe Oyarzun and Mateo Velasco won 8-6. The Bearcats one and two singles players are ranked in the top45 in the ITA national rankings. With this loss, the men’s team fell to 8-8 on the season, while the Bearcats improved to 8-2 on their season.
the three spot. The one Aggie doubles win came in the two doubles match as Gutierrez and Wood defeated their opponents 8-6. In singles, Gutierrez, who is ranked No. 50 in the ITA, won 6-0, 6-3 and Shviadok, who is ranked 47, won 6-1, 6-2 in the one and two singles matches to give CU the 3-2 lead. Tarleton came back with wins in the four and five spots to make it 4-3 with two matches still going. Lugmayr finished off her opponent in the six match 7-6, 6-1 and Thibaudat was the deciding factor in the three singles match, winning 7-6, 6-2 to give the Ags the win. Tartleton State The Cameron women are now 7-5 overall and 1-0 in LSC play, while The No. 24 ranked Cameron TSU is now 7-6 and 1-2 in league University women’s tennis team won their first Lone Star Conference match matches. Regionally, CU is ranked of the season as they defeated Tarleton third and the TexAnns are ranked sixth. State 5-4 on March 22. Cameron will continue its tennis CU trailed 2-1 after the doubles season when the women take the court matches as the 24 ranked pairing of Shviadok and Thibaudat fell in the one against Dallas Baptist on March 28 in Dallas. The men will play next against doubles match 9-7, while the duo of Kovinic and Viola Lugmayr lost 8-4 in Southeastern on March 29 in Durant.
6
Student Life
March 27, 2017
www.aggiecentral.com
Engineer’s Week: building bonds on campus
Photos by Christopher Reif
Building their way to bonds: During National Engineer’s Week, the Cameron Engineering Club held a series of events that brought members of the club and students across campus closer together. Some of these activities included Archery Tag on Feb. 21, Field Day on Feb. 22, fundraising at Chili’s on Feb. 23 and a guest speaker on Feb. 24.
ROTC & Ft. Sill, CLS training that can save a life one day Christopher Reif
“The magnitude of importance that classes like Student Life Editor these are hard to describe,” At 9:30 a.m. on Feb. he said. “Every soldier in the 24, two Combat Medics Army should have a basic from Fort Sill taught 45 understanding of how to Cameron ROTC cadets perform CLS techniques. the basics of Combat Life You never know when you Saving (CLS) techniques. might have to perform these The two Combat actions while in the Army.” Medics showed the proper Once the medics were procedures on how to apply done showing cadets the a tourniquet and how to procedures in applying the dress a wound if it was tourniquet and pressure on an extremity. Senior bandages, the cadets split interdisciplinary studies off into groups to begin a major Travis Murt noted practical exercise. Junior the significance of basic Business Administration CLS for the younger cadets. major Justin Chappman
elaborated on the benefits of the hands-on exercise. “The medics put us in challenging situations that definitely tested our ability to apply the CLS basics to our peers,” Chappman said. “We had a time limit to perform all of these actions. All the commotion and pressure that was going around us only made it harder. It was tough, but now I know how to do it much better now than I did before.” After a practice period where groups of five cadets refined their CLS
techniques, the medics gave the cadets a more difficult challenge. Placing a few of the cadets approximately 50 to 75 meters apart from each other, the medics gave the selected few an injury that their fellow team members would have to treat. Senior Physiology major Jayden Roy said he enjoyed seeing the young cadets take on the challenge. “Watching the cadets run towards the casualty as a team was rewarding,” he said. “Being an infantryman in the guard, I know the importance of being proficient in CLS and the very techniques that they have been learning all day today. I am loving what I have seen from the cadets all day; they have been putting all of their efforts out there.”