The Cameron University Collegian: September 20, 2010

TH E CA M ERON UNI V ERSIT Y Monday, September 20, 2010

Volume 85 Issue 2

Informing Cameron Since 1926

New Wellness Center opens

By Dianne Riddles Collegian Staff

Dealing with the expense of a doctor office visit and buying prescription medicine can be devastating on a student budget. This year, Cameron University students can turn to the Student Wellness Center (SWC) to help ease these burdens.

Director of Student Health Services Deanice Shegog said that the SWC will help alleviate these issues for Cameron University students beginning this semester by offering services to improve physical and mental health.

The $25 Wellness Fee paid by students at the beginning of the semester covers the costs for the SWC services.

According to Shegog, the SWC provides basic medical services to students who are enrolled in classes on the main campus.

Medical care is free on a walkin basis for students who are suffering from

Photos by Rachel Engel

Peace of mind: Students now have access to medical and psychological counseling assistance on campus at the new Student Wellness Center located in North Shepler.

acute health conditions. In addition, the SWC provides evaluations and referrals to community providers for students with chronic medical conditions.

The Student Wellness Center has arranged with several community resources to provide discounted services for diagnostic laboratory testing and imaging services. Additionally, some community resources will provide a payment plan that meets the student’s budget, Shegog said.

Dr. Heidi Malling is the Medical Director at the SWC and medical care is provided

by Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner Corinne Wills. Medical services are provided through an agreement with Southwest Oklahoma Family Practice, an OU medical program, and are available on Mondays and Wednesdays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. and on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 8 a.m. to noon.

According to Shegog, the SWC also provides individual and group counseling services. Students who are enrolled at least part-time are eligible to receive 12 counseling sessions per academic year. Counseling services are strictly confidential and not ref lected in official record and are available by appointment only on Monday and Wednesday from 8 a.m. to noon and on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

See WELLNESS Page 2

Students, faculty, guests commemorate women

By Rachel Engel

the University of Oklahoma Sheryl Lovelady; Associate News Editor Professor of History Sarah Each year, Cameron Eppler Janda; and Assistant University’s annual Professor of History Dr. Constitution Day, a Melody Huckaby, each day commemorating speaking independently the ratification of the on the history, effects and Constitution current state of the of women in United politics.

“I think that women bring States, Rep. Coody, so much to the table. highlights having served a unique six years in Women have a heart for perspective the Oklahoma the most important things of American state in our country today.” history. legislature, This year spoke on celebrated personal — Rep. Ann Coody her the 90th experiences in anniversary R-OK 64th District government of the and what it passing means for of the women to be 19th Amendment, which involved in politics. afforded women the right “I think that women bring to vote. so much to the table,” she The event featured a said. “Women have a heart panel of four prominent for the most important things women from Cameron in our country today. We’re and around Oklahoma: Rep. Ann Coody (ROK 64th District); See CELEBRATION Director of the Women’s Leadership Initiative at Page 2

Courtesy photo

Girl power: Rep. Ann Coody spoke at Cameron’s annual Constitution Day on Sept. 15, discussing her personal experiences in government and why more women should get involved.

News

A&E

Sports

Opinion

Faculty-in-residence organizes religious discussion.

Greek life inspires high recruiting numbers.

Students take aim for college credit.

Campus soda machines fall short of expectations.

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WELLNESS continued from page 1

and classes Students to assist the without “I am really excited that expecting insurance we are able to offer these mothers, and with Shegog said a limited much needed services to West End ability to Cameron students.”

Pharmacy pay for offers psychotropic discounted medications — Deanice Shegog prescriptions are able delivery to receive Student Wellness Center and on campus. services Director Also, yoga from the Jim is provided Taliaferro in the SWC Community on Monday, Wednesday, and Mental Health Center, Friday from noon - 1 p.m. In Shegog said. the near future, Platt College The SWC also functions plans to provide massage as a Pregnancy Resource therapy from its practicum Center on the second and students in the SWC. fourth Wednesday of the Shegog said that the SWC month from 9 a.m. – noon eventually hopes to establish and provides free pregnancy discounted services in the testing and optional community for dental and counseling. Additionally, vision services for Cameron if a student is pregnant, the students.

Pregnancy Resource Center Monthly interactive will provide a free ultra sound

News

September 20, 2010 www.aggiecentral.com

Photo by Rachel Engel

Open doors: The new Student Wellness Center is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and offers a variety of services to students, including medical and psychological services, yoga and discounted pharmaceuticals workshops that will provide education about various

disorders are scheduled throughout each semester, such as the upcoming workshop on Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder for sufferers and family members.

The SWC strives to decrease the negative stigma associated with this type of psychological disorder and to aid in student recovery, Shegog said.

The Student Wellness

Center also offers monthly educational seminars that are open to students, faculty and staff members. The topics for the month of October are breast cancer and mental health awareness week, Oct. 4-8.

Over 100 students have already been helped by the services provided and said, Shegog said.

“I am really excited that we are able to offer these much needed services to Cameron students,” she said.

Students are encouraged to stop by the SWC on the first f loor of North Shepler from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or call 581.6725.

CELEBRATION continued from page 1

Solutions on page 3

mothers; we’re responsible for the raising of those children, and some of the same qualities that make a woman a good mother, also make her a good legislator.”

Considering the high profile women candidates in national elections over the last few years, Rep. Coody has high expectations that the trend of female involvement in politics will continue.

“They are role models,” she said. “A woman has run for President [of the United States], a woman has run for Vice President [of the United States], we have women governors and I think we’ll see more women getting into government.”

Lovelady detailed many of the women trailblazers in Oklahoma politics, and spoke on a personal level with the audience in urging them to get involved in local and state government.

“Constitution Day is a great event, and I am glad that Cameron University is placing a lot of emphasis on it because it is important to remind people of our civic duties as Americans and that those did not come cheaply,” she said. “They were gained through wars, through protests and in the case of women they were gained by women going to prison for the right to vote.”

As Oklahoma prepares for its first female governor, Lovelady believes it will encourage more women around the state to get involved locally and at the state level.

“In Oklahoma, it’s a huge year for women because we happen to have two women running for governor,” she said. “As a state that ranks 49th for women in the state legislature, that is huge. We’re excited about that and we’re hoping it encourages more women to consider public service or elected office as careers.”

According to the event organizer, Assistant Professor of History Dr. Jeffrey Metzger, Constitution Day is celebrated by all universities receiving federal funding as required by a law that was proposed after the terrorist attacks on Sept.

11, 2001.

“It was an attempt to promote understanding of the Constitution, to promote familiarity of the Constitution as one of the founding documents, as one of the major cornerstones of American public life and political life,” he said. “I think in the aftermath of Sept. 11 the country came together in a lot of ways, and I think there was a concern to keep that going by focusing on unifying things like the Constitution.”

Previous events at Cameron have centered around the bicentennial of Lincoln’s birth and the Constitution from the Native American perspective, and Dr. Metzger feels commemorating the passage of the 19th ammendment is an important one.

“A couple of years ago when Hillary Clinton ran, that was still considered a novelty,” he said.

The event is sponsored by the CU School of Liberal Arts, the Department of History and Government and the Lawton Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

News

September 20, 2010 www.aggiecentral.com

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Film explores religious beliefs

By Rachel Engel News Editor

Cameron University’s Faculty-in-Residence program is continuing this year with a familiar face, as Associate Professor of Communications Dr. Justin Walton assumes the position for a second year.

As the Faculty-in-Residence, Walton is expected to organize two campus events per semester. The first for this semester will be a showing of the documentary, “Perspectives of God ” at 7:30 p.m. on Sept. 22 in McMahon Center Room 103.

“I try to choose events that are controversial and have broad appeal,” he said.

“All over the world, we find that religion is intricately connected with major cultural and societal institutions.

As important as it is, it's disappointing how little or how misunderstood other religious practices are in the world.”

Dr. Walton said that he hopes the documentary will ignite discussion about tolerance of other religions, and open eyes.

“As multicultural as our communities are becoming, it is absolutely critical that individuals understand both the differences and similarities among different religious traditions and paradigms,” he said. “Close to two billion people practice Christianity and roughly 1.5 million practice Islam. At this time, Islam is one of the fastest growing religions on the planet. Understanding the customs, histories and assumptions of these religious traditions are essential to promoting deeper intercultural experiences and peaceful conf lict resolution.”

Dr. Walton plans to participate during Diversity Week in October, and also plans to organize an event for students before finals in December. He is the third professor to participate in the program following Dr. John Bachelor and

Dr. Paul Crandon. After completing his first year living at the McMahon Center, he decided to extend his role on campus.

“There are a few more programs I would like to offer before my time is up,” he said. “The Faculty-in-Residence program is still very new, and I’m interested in experimenting with some things that might further improve the quality of campus life for our student body.”

Living on campus has given Dr. Walton the opportunity to meet with students on a daily basis and become involved with campus life.

“Interacting with our students is the most rewarding part of the position,” he said. “Having the opportunity to visit with students about classes, their personal interests, campus events and politics has been amazing.”

Part of Dr. Walton’s job as a live-in faculty member is to be an available resource for Graphic courtesy of Public Affairs students when they are unsure how to tackle a problem.

“They can come by and talk about academic advice, career issues or if they need any assistance for things on campus,” he said. “I’m sort of a faculty resource that’s available in the residence on campus.”

Even though Dr. Walton is there to offer assistance to students, he says he is able to learn from them as well.

“I’ve learned a lot from them. Sometimes we forget what it’s like being a student – all the pressures involved with college life,” he said. “It is easy to become detached from our students.

We [educators] get a little older each year, but our students stay the same age. Clearly we want our students to participate enthusiastically in the educational process, but that goes both ways. Understanding their interests, concerns and challenges are fundamental to making the classroom a rewarding experience. This position has put me back in touch with those things.”

Cameron offers alternative to traditional teaching

By Ricardo Thompson

Cameron University’s drive to provide quality higher education to its students brings modern technology to the classroom.

This year CU continues to invest in technological upgrades and installations to ensure its facilities

are as smart as the students whom use them.

Cameron currently has 90 smart classrooms across its Lawton campus and 10 classrooms at the CU-Duncan campus with plans to install another 10 classrooms in the near future as the demand for technological facilities grows.

Correction

Crossword Solutions

Newswriting Student

In the Sept. 13 issue of the Collegian some incorrect information was printed in the CU Biggest Loser article.

Deanice Shegog’s title is Student Health Services Director.

This is the correct spelling for Michelle Warner’s name.

Distance Learning Coordinator Bill Schemonia recognizes the need for alternative learning technology.

“The demand for multimedia capability has grown exponentially,” he said. “There are so many methods of delivery and resources that professors can utilize to get the messages out.”

Smart classrooms are fully media-integrated classrooms, consisting of a computer, document camera, DVD player, audio systems with speakers and overhead projection.

Various methods of delivery seek to keep the students engaged and helps them adapt to different learning styles and course content.

“Multiple methods of delivery, whether audio/video or PowerPoint, tries to deliver content in a format that doesn’t come across as boring, but rather keeps students involved and engaged,” Schemonia said.

Across campus, more disciplines are utilizing or expanding their departments to effectively use the services made available by Information Technology Services (ITS).

“Typically, Education, Criminal Justice, Psychology, Business, Theatre and Communication offer distance learning facilities with most other disciplines having some ITV front,” Schemonia said.

ITS aims to make their facilities reliable to avoid loss of content or class time. The ability to record and pre-record lectures was introduced last year, and during classes professors are no longer limited to PowerPoint.

“PowerPoint shouldn’t be the only way to deliver content to students,” Schemonia said.

Classes can not only be recorded, but broadcasted and viewed in high-definition minimizing how much content or detail is lost through secondary broadcasting, according to Campus Network administrator, Keith McIssac.

“Two rooms with HD capability have been added this academic year within the School of Business,” McIsaac said.

Photos by Jim Horinek

Smarty-pants: On Cameron’s main campus, 90 classrooms are considered to be “smart” classrooms, featuring a computer, document camera, DVD player, an audio system with speakers and an overhead projector.

All smart classrooms computers are projected to upgrade to Windows 7 during this academic year, providing a more stable operating system and seamless control over hardware

and software facilities.

Wireless hotspots have been installed in Nance Boyer and the Fitness Center this year as part of IT’s expansion of information across campus.

Opinion

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September 20, 2010 www.aggiecentral.com

Soda Machines: The battle for a soft drink

Jim Horinek

Throughout campus there are many soda vending machines, located in nearly every building on campus.

As a service to the students THE CAMERON UNIVERSITY

COLLEGIAN Founded in 1926 veritas sempiterna

Editorial Staff

Managing Editor - Jim Horinek News Editor - Rachel Engel A&E Editor - Michael Faggett Sports Editor - Amanda Cantu Variety Editor - Rashmi Thapaliya Copy Editor - Taylor Brunwald Aggie Central Editors- Rachel Engel, Michael Faggett, Kyle Luetters, Ron Phillips

Newsroom Staff

Financial Officer - Susan Hill Staff Writers - Alyssa Knerr, Dianne Riddles, Elizabeth Nagel, Jessica Goodman, Rebecca Craft Circulation Manager - Clayton Gould Advertising Manager - Jim Horinek

Newswriting Students

Megan Bristow, Shaniqua Brown, Jarred Burk, Maria Cepeda Pilataxi, Ashley Del Ciello, Terry Dixon, Ippi Elliott, Ashleigh Fletcher, Chaney Gibson, Nicole Grzecki, Amanda Harris, Tiffany Martinez, Elijah Morlett, Ronald Phillips, Ishia Saltibus, Amber Spurlin, Brandon Thompson, Ricardo Thompson, Ricky Warren, Jeffrey Williams, Brittany Wolfe, Lana Ochilien

Faculty Adviser

Dr. Christopher Keller

About Us

The official student newspaper of Cameron University, The Cameron Collegian is available each Monday during the year. It is printed by the Edmond Sun via the Duncan Banner.

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 or e-mail to collegian@cameron.edu, or they may be dropped off at our office Nance Boyer 2060.

Our Views

The opinions expressed in The Collegian pages or personal columns are those of the signed author.

The unsigned editorial under the heading “Our Voice” 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.

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.

this set up is a great thing.

However, the majority of the time, a very large number of the soda machines on campus are empty, not working or malfunctioning. This raises a question as to how they can really benefit the students.

Since I started attending Cameron in 2006, my battle with the soda machines has been nearly constant. I have seen many different types of malfunctions and all kinds of machine empty signals. Specifically, it seems to never fail that if you do happen to find a machine that is actually working, it will have some other issue. Problems like not accepting cash or not accepting coins. Furthermore, there lies the frustrating issue that the machines seem to rarely have the type of soda that I actually want.

Just the other day, I found myself in Nance Boyer with the craving for a Dr. Pepper. The first machine I went to did not take bills and, since all I had was cash, I made my way to the next machine. The second machine was sold out and from there I went to the third machine in the building and found it to also be sold out. At this point I had given, up but thanks a kind passerby I was given the idea to put my bills in the snack food vending machine and turn them into coins by pressing the return button.

Consequently, I got my coins and was able to get the first machine I battled to work. But of course it was sold out of everything except

the type of soda that I hate.

I am sure that many other students and faculty have had experiences much like this one.

This may seem like a trivial matter to some, but more than anything else it simply astounds me that despite many different complaints and reports of the endless problems that the soda machines give students and faculty, nothing really ever gets done to fix the problem.

I cannot understand why it is that the vending company cannot get their act together enough to make the machines work properly. Specifically, I am amazed that the vendor appears to ignore the problem for the most part.

If you are wondering if this is something that has truly been going on for many years you can take a look in the “Collegian” archives and find multiple columns that have been written over this precise subject.

I simply ask what kind of business is the vending company running if they continually have soda machines that are empty, malfunctioning or broken?

The fact that the machines, that happen to work, sell out within a very short period after they are filled tells me that the machines are necessary. Therefore if the machines are necessary then perhaps it is time that the vending company either get their act together or Cameron gets a new vendor.

Graphic by Jim Horinek

Soda machines on campus are broken or empty entirely too often

Moving On

After a break up the sun still rises The world does not end when a relationship does.

Ending a relationship is a difficult thing to do, but certainly not as difficult as being on the receiving end of those decisions.

After investing time and energy into another person, it takes more time to readjust how that time and energy will be spent. Lessons can be learned from each experience. While moving on may initially be difficult, it is not impossible; it always affords opportunities for personal growth and ref lection.

The first time I was broken up with, I believed that life as I knew it collapsed. My feelings of confidence and self-worth became clouded by doubt and loss of purpose. It would be months afterwards before I regained focus on the good aspects of life that had always surrounded me.

What struck the most once the clouds began to clear was how much good there was in life. I am very lucky in that I have a family that loves me, friends who care about me and work that is meaningful. Realizing this helped me understand that life does not need to be hinged on a single individual, but rather, on being a positive force in the lives around me.

At the beginning of this past summer, I ended a long-term relationship. We shared many good times, and made some great memories together. Like every couple, we had our issues; ultimately, irreconcilable differences led to our end. The break up hurt us both, and we each took our time in recovering.

He is now seeing someone else, and I rededicated myself to my academic success.

We remain in touch to an extent.

One thing that I have learned is that issues within relationships should be discussed, not ignored. Honest, open communication is key to any sort of interaction, regardless of the context.

Failing to relay to a professor that you will miss a day of class is just as ineffective as failing to ask your partner to put the toilet seat down (or up).

When trying to move on, committing time and energy into positive activities or work is more efficient than sitting around brooding or reminiscing about days of yore. The past cannot be changed. What is malleable is the future, and it only becomes positive or negative depending on actions taken in the present.

Break-ups due to intangible reasoning happen and are rather common. Abusive relationships, whether physical or emotional, cannot be tolerated. Those victimized by abusive partners can call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1.800.799.7233 for assistance.

The aftermath of the end of a relationship is not always easy, but never does it mean the end of the world. Moving on can help one to realize plenty of opportunities for a greater future.

Taylor Brunwald

A&E

September 20, 2010 www.aggiecentral.com

5

Cameron Greek life looks to expand, unite

By Taylor Brunwald Copy Editor

Greek life is renewing its presence on campus, and hopes to dominate the social atmosphere this year.

Currently, the only officially recognized fraternity on campus is Sigma Tau Gamma; fraternities working on gaining official recognition are Mu Alpha Chi, Phi Lambda Chi and Sigma Rhomeo.

The officially recognized sororities are Alpha Kappa Alpha, Alpha Phi and Sigma Alpha Omega. Zeta Phi Beta is the only unofficially recognized sorority on campus.

Steve Sassaman, Student Activities Specialist, serves as an adviser for all social Greek organizations. A member of the Phi Mu Delta fraternity, he is excited about his new role and assisting Cameron’s Greeks.

“So far, recruitment is going well,” Sassaman said. “Sigma Tau Gamma and Alpha Phi are the only ones who have extended bids so far. Sigma Alpha Omega is still in the recruitment process, and the other Greeks will do their recruitment later this semester.”

Elijah Morlett, President of

Sigma Tau Gamma, is inspired by his fraternity’s growth.

“We extended 13 bids, and 11 men accepted them,” Morlett said. “We are becoming more of a traditional fraternity.”

KD Wood, a member of Alpha Phi, is thrilled about her sorority’s recruitment. She said that 21 women accepted bids, nearly tripling their chapter size.

To help promote Greek unity, Sassaman is also advising the Greek Council, which will provide a forum for equal representation of all Greek organizations. Sassaman said that the Council will ensure that all of the organizations are meeting their goals of academic and social excellence. The Council will also work jointly on service projects to benefit the campus and the surrounding community.

As Greek Adviser, Sassaman has set several goals that he hopes to see

accomplished.

The first is to change negative views some students may have about Greek life.

“If someone wants to party, they shouldn’t go Greek,” Sassaman said.

Other goals Sassaman said include increasing the total membership of Greek organizations on campus by 50 percent, improving the cumulative GPA of all Greek members

Courtesy Photo

Greeks United: Greek organizations Sigma Tau Gamma, Alpha Phi and Sigma Rhomeo sign their letters at an event. to 2.5 and creating higher standards for Greek life.

“My experience with the Greeks on campus has been positive,” Sassaman said. “They are all passionate about their goals and have been open to feedback.”

Morlett said that he wants to see Sigma Tau Gamma lead the way for fraternities at Cameron.

“We plan on hosting more social events and becoming more involved on campus,” Morlett

said.

Wood shared Morlett’s sentiment concerning her sorority, and also said she has faith in the new Greek Adviser.

“Steve will make a big difference for us all,” Wood said.

“He knows what needs to be done and he’ll help us do it.”

For more information about Greek life, students can contact Sassaman in the Office of Student Activities at 581.2217.

PAC preps for another eventful fall semester

By Rashmi Thapaliya

Sept. 21 and CU @ the Game: Toga Tailgate on Sept. 23.

Sean Eckrote, co-chair for After Welcome Week and PAC, said that the number of the Foam Dance Party, there students attending the PAC remain many events that events has increased this year. the Programming Activities “Attendance for PAC events Council (PAC) will be has increased organizing because of the for “The PAC events give advertising students students opportunity to of the events this fall. know more people on around campus,” The Eckrote said. upcoming campus. They will not be “We have events that bored when they have learned what PAC will nothing to do.” does and does be hosting — Sean Eckrote not work for the this semester PAC Co-Chair students.”

Eckrote are: said that PAC Rolling members write with the Aggies, a trip to about the events in chalk East Central University for around the campus so that the volleyball competition; Grocery Bingo; a tailgate party students are informed about the upcoming events. He before the CU game; movie nights; the Halloween carnival; said that posting f liers on the bulletin boards around Iron Chef Cameron and the the campus and hanging Winter Dance.

The events for the month of posters around the buildings on campus have also been September are a movie night, helpful advertising techniques. showing Robin Hood on Sept.

Some PAC members also 14, Rolling with the Aggies on dress up like the characters Sept. 16, Grocery Bingo on

Variety Editor

MCT Campus

Robs from the rich: Along with the Foam Dance and other events, PAC hosts numerous movie screenings. There, students can expect recent hits like “Robin Hood.” of the movies to be screened so that the students around campus become curious about the costumes, thus becoming informed about the movie nights.

PAC members volunteer during each event. Eckrote said that membership is open to all Cameron students. The

funding for the PAC events comes from the Student Activity and tuition fee paid for by students.

Eckrote said that PAC has tried to continue some events every year in addition to hosting some new events.

Grocery Bingo is one such newly established event, being

held for the second time by PAC. Those who participate and win are awarded grocery items.

“The PAC events give the students an opportunity to know more people on campus during the events,” Eckrote said. “ They will not be bored when they have nothing to do.”

On the Road Again: PAC also sponsors road trips to away games for volleyball and basketball.

MCT Campus

B-I-N-G-O: PAC will host its annual Grocery Bingo on Sept. 21.

Sports

6

September 20, 2010 www.aggiecentral.com

Tennis teams prepare for new season

By Amanda Cantu Sports Editor

The courts have been resurfaced and the players are ready to go; it is time to get excited because the wait is finally over – Cameron’s tennis season has officially begun.

The Aggie women opened their season last weekend with a scrimmage against the Bronchos of the University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) at the CU Tennis Complex. Because the women were only scrimmaging, official scores could not be kept.

Nonetheless, tennis coach James Helvey is pleased with the form

of his team.

“The women were outstanding,” Helvey said.

“Considering we have only had one week of practice, I really cannot say enough about how well they played. It looks like this is going to be a really good and really fun year.”

What made the match-up even more contentious is that former Aggie tennis standout Saman Samii is now the Graduate Assistant for UCO’s women’s tennis program. Samii said he had mixed emotions about competing against his alma mater.

“It feels weird playing against

Photos by Jessica Goodman

Doubling up: Antonia Moberg and partner Elvira Sholles compete in a doubles match during a scrimmage against UCO. Moberg is one of the team’s three new players.

Cameron. I want the team I am coaching to do well, but at the same time, I am always going to be an Aggie,” Samii said.

Helvey also acknowledged the odd feeling of competing against a former player but said he is happy to see Samii doing so well as a coach.

“Samii is a great assistant and he is doing a really good job,” Helvey said.

Helvey has made new additions to both the women’s and men’s teams this year.

The three new women – Sara Londono, Florencia Tornero and Antonia Moberg (sister of fellow team member Amanda Moberg) – all show signs of promise.

“The new girls are very strong.

Our depth will be completely different from last season,” Helvey said. “These girls are going to help take the team to the next level.”

On the men’s side, there are two new players – Mateus Campos and Patrick Eichler. In addition to the new members of the squad, Nicolas “Nico” Clerc and Santiago Romero, who were ineligible to play last season, will become eligible in the spring.

Helvey is excited with what all four men bring to the team.

“The two new guys are very solid. We lost two players that were very good last season, and these new guys are replacing them. We are going to be a strong team, especially in January when Nico and Santiago can play,” Helvey said.

The tennis coach said he was pleased with the performance of both of his teams last year and is looking to build on the qualities that made them so successful.

“I am very pleased with the season the men had, especially since two players were not eligible. We finished in the top 25 in the nation, top four in the region and top two in conference,” Helvey said. “The

Service with a smile: Freshman Florencia Tornero serves during a scrimmage against UCO. Tennis coach James Helvey is excited about the talent that Tornero and her fellow newcomers bring to the team. women had a wonderful season as well. They did an outstanding job. They fought hard and exceeded my expectations. I am very proud of them.”

This season, however, Helvey has set a higher standard for his team to reach and he said the way to reach it is very straightforward.

“This season I expect nothing less than top two in the conference and in the region and top 20 in the nation,” Helvey said. “The way to do that is to just win more matches. It is that simple.”

One of the events Helvey is most looking forward to competing in is the ITA Regional Tournament. Both teams have performed well there in the past, and Helvey is excited to play there again.

“The ITA will be tough.

Everyone is top players there, but we have had great success there recently, so I am looking forward to it this season,” Helvey said.

The Aggie men and women will next take to the courts on Sept. 20 in Oklahoma City when they take on Cowley College.

Ogle, Schroer take on leadership roles

By Michael Faggett A&E Editor

The classic argument of whether leaders are either born or made tends to leave those involved in the debate more confused and frustrated than when they started.

As far as the volleyball team at Cameron is concerned, no such argument is necessary because the team has two leaders who show leadership in their own unique way: seniors Valerie Ogle and Amber Schroer.

Both players have interesting stories in reference to their careers as volleyball players, and each brings a different skill set to the court.

Ogle played limited minutes last season. Most of her action,

according to head coach Brianne Lowe, came as a setter in practices and on the squad’s scouting team.

Lowe said Ogle’s work ethic in practice in conjunction with her knowledge of scouting reports helps Ogle make strides in more playing time this season.

“She is gaining confidence,” Lowe said. “It is just a manner of getting more reps on the floor.”

In addition to knowledge of opponents’ offensive and defensive tendencies, Lowe said Ogle’s size provides benefits to the team.

“Her size is invaluable to us,” Lowe said.

Size is a factor Ogle shares with Schroer, her fellow senior on the team. Like Ogle, Schroer played in limited action last

season as a middle blocker, but Schoer’s limited playing time was a result of a different situation than Ogle’s.

Schoer joined the volleyball team after spending most of her college career playing basketball.

She spent last year playing the role of a dual-sport athlete. This season she is placing more focus on the volleyball net than the basketball court.

According to Lowe, Schroer appears to be more fluid and certain of herself on the floor. “[Schroer] expects perfection of herself,” Lowe said. “She continues to be more confident in her play.”

The increased confidence Schroer has shown has also been evident in the stat box. After the team’s first five matches, she

Leading the pack: Senior Amber Schroer (center) in a practice session with her teammates. Schroer, who is both a volleyball and basketball player, is one of the team’s only two seniors. Volleyball coach Brianne Lowe said that Schroer is gaining confidence on the court this season.

Photos by Tony Black

Killing them with her smile: Senior Valerie Ogle (above) in practices in the Aggie Gym. Volleyball coach Brianne Lowe said Ogle’s work ethic is very beneficial to the team and also acknowledged that her scouting knowledge is critical. Lowe also said she is looking to Ogle and fellow senior team member Amber Schoer to bring leadership to the squad and infuse the team with their passion for the sport. leads the team in both blocks showing leadership for the team.

“Valerie takes information and block attempts and is in the top five in kills. Lowe said from opposing teams’ tapes and Schroer’s perfectionist attitude helps our starters,” Lowe said.

“She takes in scouting reports shows in her play, both in practice and in matches. and sets the ball to help us have an advantage.”

That demeanor, according to Lowe, is Schroer’s method of With eight new players on the leadership. roster, Lowe looks for the team to draw from Ogle and Schroer’s “With Amber, you know she always gives 100 percent,” Lowe work ethic and passion to make said. “Whether it is in practice, a push towards the Lone Star games or conditioning, she gives Conference tournament. her full effort and will push you “The talent is there; we just have to maintain it,” Lowe said. to play hard all the time.”

Similar to Schroer, Ogle uses “All of them want to win.” a more non-verbal approach in

Sports

September 20, 2010 www.aggiecentral.com

7

Cheerleading squad sees new coaches

By Megan Bristow Newswriting Student

The Cameron University cheerleading team hopes to soar to high heights under the new direction of co-head cheerleading coaches Korie Brox and Brooke Wojcik.

Last year, the team competed at Nationals, where they placed seven out of 10.

As new coaches to the squad, Brox and Wojcik are looking to better the team of eight females and one male this year in order to place in the top four at nationals in April.

Wojcik has been a cheerleading coach since 1996 and began coaching at the junior high and elementary level. She began cheering in first grade as well as being involved with gymnastics and dance. At the collegiate level, she cheered for Ohio State University and Otterbein University.

Brox has been a cheerleading coach since 1999 when she began coaching in high school. She got her start in cheerleading by being a gymnast for 13 years and began cheering

during her freshman year of high school. She also cheered at the collegiate level for the University of Oklahoma.

Before accepting their new positions at Cameron, they co-owned a cheerleading gym, Lawton Xtreme Athletics.

They will continue to operate the gym together while guiding the team to perform for Cameron University games and preparing for nationals.

"We play for the volleyball games and men and women's basketball games, but we support all Cameron athletics and alumni," Brox said.

Brox hopes through the guidance of Wojcik and herself that the squad will learn valuable life lessons while improving their skills.

"We hope to teach them the value of hard work, and also that they will keep improving throughout the year," Brox said.

In addition, Wojcik hopes to assist in involving more of the university in the games as well as enabling the team to show their hard work throughout the year.

"I would like to get more

Photo by Brooke Wojcik

Looking very cheerful: New CU cheerleading coaches Brooke Wojcik (left) and Korie Brox (right). Both coaches said they are excited to be in their new positions and have high expectations for their team this year. people involved in coming to the games,” Wojcik said. “It's really hard for them to cheer at games when there is nobody to cheer to. I want people to have a positive experience at the games. I want the team to be able to show how hard they've worked because they've worked really hard this summer."

Wojcik said that the biggest challenge they have faced so far is that not everyone is

willing to put in the amount of hard work and dedication that cheering requires, but the team that they have now has really stuck with it.

Both Brox and Wojcik are excited for the coming year as they guide the CU cheer team in developing their skills. They look forward to seeing the team improve throughout the year, and anticipate the results being displayed at university athletic

games and in the upcoming national competition.

Positions remain open on the team that will compete in the national competition.

Students interested in trying out should contact the Cameron University athletic office at (580) 581.2460 or e-mail the coaches at lawtonxtremeathletics@yahoo. com.

Shooting sports classes in high demand

By Amanda Cantu Sports Editor

Though they might not always receive overwhelming amounts of attention, the shooting sports classes offered in the Burch Hall shooting range are immensely popular among CU students.

The classes offered in the range include Riflery, Shooting Sports and Archery. According to Cameron Shooting Sports

Director James Helvey, all three classes consistently fill up within a very short amount of time after enrollment begins. Helvey, who has held the post of Shooting Sports Director for 18 years, said he is delighted that students have such a high interest in his classes.

“The classes are fun and very interesting. The students enjoy themselves,” Helvey said. “The classes are in high demand, and students really can’t get a better

Photo by Amanda Cantu

Taking aim: Archery students practice their aim. The shooting sports classes have longbeen some of the most popular on campus. bargain than paying a $30 range fee and then getting to shoot for 16 weeks.”

In order to become a shooting instructor, Helvey had to complete a six month training program that concluded with an NRA administered exam in Washington, D.C. After the completion of the program, Helvey was named a National Appointed Shooting Coach by the NRA. For Helvey, the most important element of his classes is ensuring a safe environment for his students, and he is very pleased to report that there has never been an accident in any of his classes.

Helvey said: “Safety is my number one priority in class. I like to be in total control. When students prepare to shoot, I make sure they go out as a group, shoot as a group and come in as a group. Cooperation and communication are critical.

Everyone must be well-informed of what is happening and must know gun safety. I frequently have students say on the end of

the semester evaluation forms that they felt safe, and that makes me feel good.”

Though students enter the class with varying levels of knowledge about the equipment that is to be used, Helvey said it is necessary to teach the class at the pace of the least experienced student.

“We have to start at the basics in these classes,” Helvey said.

“Some of the more experienced students may have to be patient because you cannot afford to skip steps in these classes.”

Helvey appreciates that his classes can pique students’ interest and leave a lasting impression.

“These classes sometimes help students to find an interest or a hobby they would have never known they would be interested in,” Helvey said. “Some students seek out other things after taking one of these classes.

They join different clubs and really become active in shooting sports.”

Currently, there is no riflery or archery team sponsored by

Cameron. However, the creation of such a team is something Helvey is interested in.

“I would love for the idea of a team to be looked into, but I also understand that would take funding,” Helvey said. “If we were to have a team I would want it to be properly funded.”

Though there is no official archery team, there is an archery club on campus, which is open to all CU students.

“The club has been up and running for about a year and is really growing interest. Anyone can come shoot, and some other instructors and I will help those who need it,” Helvey said.

Helvey greatly enjoys the interaction with students his job allows him to have and loves sharing his passion for shooting sports with them.

“I love interacting with the students, and I like seeing students having their eyes opened and realizing that this can be fun,” Helvey said. “I like seeing them enjoy themselves and learning that this really is a discipline.”

8

Variety

September 20, 2010 www.aggiecentral.com

Farewell to West Hall: What was one of the oldest standing buildings on campus gave way to progress this summer.

New look: After being vacant for the past several years, it was time to say goodbye to West Hall. West Hall played many different roles throughout the Universities history.

Fresh Coat: The Physical Facilities buildings received a much needed face lift this summer as the old, faded red paint was replaced with white and black.

Photos by Jessica Goodman and Jim Horinek Page Design by Rashmi Thapaliya and Jim Horinek

Here’s your sign: Located throughout campus these information poles offer students information such as campus events and directions.

Fully furnished: The gazebo in the Graybill Courtyard now boasts brand new furniture. The addition makes the gazebo a much more inviting campus destination.