The Cameron University Collegian: December 10, 2007

COLLEGIAN THE CA M ERON U N I V ER SIT Y

Monday, December 10, 2007

News

Informing the Cameron Family Since 1926

Volume 81 Issue 11

Family, friends remember life of Cameron student By Joshua Rouse Collegian Staff

Cameron takes step toward eco-friendliness. SEE PAGE 3

Caleb Adams, a Business sophomore, died on Nov. 8 after he was in an explosion at Enterprise Rent-A-Car on Cache Road. According to the Lawton Fire Department, the explosion happened around 2 p.m. on Nov. 7 where Adams worked as a car detailer. The chemicals Adams used to detail the cars caused the small explosion. “We do believe it was an accident,” Fire Marshall Mark Mitchell said. “There was some flammable cleaning products involved – terrible tragedy.” Investigators believe Adams lit a lighter, but the reason is unclear. An investigation is ongoing. Adams’ parents, Lawrence and Pam Adams, were informed about the accident immediately and arrived at the hospital before he was flown to Oklahoma City. “You’re always real anxious when it’s your child,” Mr. Adams said. “We didn’t know the severity of it when we first found out.” Mr. and Mrs. Adams drove to Oklahoma City while their son was being flown there. Mr. Adams said he always hoped for the best and didn’t want to believe his son would die. “You never want to believe it’s as bad as it really is,” he said. “We were hoping he would recover.” Mr. and Mrs. Adams were able to speak to their son after the accident before he was flown to Oklahoma City.

A&E

See ADAMS Page 5

SEE PAGE 12

Sports

Aggies off to a slow start.

Speech and Debate Team places second at OU tournament

By Elizabeth Yocham

Collegian Staff

“American society and culture have changed in remarkable ways,” said Dr. Lance Janda, Cameron University associate professor of History. “Much of this is due to our affluence.” The age of affluence was the topic of discussion presented by Dr. Janda at November’s Lunch Bag Lecture at the Leslie Powell Gallery. Lunch Bag Lectures are lectures presented by local experts on topics of interest to the general public. According to Dr. Janda, affluence is defined as the excess amount of income that is earned beyond what is necessary for basic needs. “America’s affluence can be attributed to many factors, such as history, an individualistic culture, physical isolation from many countries, its abundant land and natural resources and a free market. All of these factors have worked together over the past century to increase America’s level of affluence quickly,” Dr. Janda said.

Voices

Gift-giving takes time and thought. SEE PAGE 8

By Malinda Rust

An excess in wealth can affect America in positive and negative ways, and Dr. Janda said that affluence itself is not necessarily bad. “Societies with high Photo by Elizabeth Yocham affluence Speaking to the masses: Dr. Lance Janda are typically presents a lecture on the age of affluence at vibrant, the Leslie Powell Gallery. The lecture was the creative November topic for the monthly Lunch Bag and have Lectures at the Leslie Powell Gallery. an overall improved spend, big businesses strive quality of life,” he said. “Longer to keep up with the desires life expectancy, medical of the public. Therefore, new advances, higher education and technologies are constantly more choices are characteristics created. attributed to societies with “Big business has a product excess wealth or higher levels of for every need we might have,” affluence.” Janda said. “This is because we In addition to these have the money to spend on it.” potentially beneficial qualities, technology is another positive See JANDA result of affluence. Because people have more money to Page 5

The Cameron University Speech and Debate Team added more trophies to the case in the Communication building after winning top honors in both halves of the Big Twelve South Swing Tournament, which was hosted by the University of Oklahoma on Nov. 9-11. The team placed first overall during the first half of the swing tournament, second overall for the second half of the tournament and second place for the entire weekend. They also received an award for placing third in debate during the first half of the tournament. CU competed against nine other schools at the tournament. Their awards from the tournament serve as perfect testaments to the team’s overall performance this year—consistent success. “We took six people and everyone brought home a trophy,” said Dan Schabot, Director of Forensics at CU. Those six students include: Bethany Beck, a Communication junior, Michael Faggett, a freshman from Dallas, Texas, Koryanne Gonzales, a freshman studying Music, Justin Barrick, a sophomore studying English, Charles Kirby, an Elementary Education sophomore and Jacob Pahcheka, a Communication sophomore.

See DEBATE Page 2

Student government president reorganizes administration By Jessica Frazier

SEE PAGE 14

In his element: Business sophomore Caleb Adams played basketball for the Cache High School Bulldogs. His number and jersey were retired out of respect by the team last month.

Leslie Powell hosts Dr. Janda affluence lecture Collegian Staff

‘American Gangster’ blows away audience.

Photo courtesy of Lawrence and Pam Adams

Collegian Staff The Cameron University Student Government Association (SGA) is half-way through the academic year and is working to improve the campus for students. SGA President Jeff Wozencraft presented several ideas for re-organizing the administration of SGA in order to make the group of students more effective after his election. Before Wozencraft, SGA had several committees that had only one function and, according to Wozencraft, were useless other than for their single function. “I swiped all the committees, and then I formed three steady committees,” he said. “The most active right now is the Legislative Committee.” Pending a campus-wide vote, a mandatory Legislative Committee, which would review all new legislation before being passed, will become a part of the SGA Constitution. “This allows for more solid and quality legislation to be presented at SGA meetings,” Wozencraft said. Recently, legislation passed that requires

shelves to be mounted in bathroom stalls campus-wide. The legislation was presented by a freshman senator, and, according to Wozencraft, the senator utilized the legislative committee to help her develop her idea into a solid piece of legislation. “She had her idea written on a scrap piece of paper. Then she went to the legislative committee who worked with her in formulizing her idea into a piece of legislation,” he said. Wozencraft also created the Activities Committee, which is responsible for any activities sponsored by SGA. For example, the committee worked to help with gathering students and faculty for the student-faculty volleyball game held earlier this semester and a Halloween party for SGA members. The last new committee is the Judicial Committee which is designed to assist SGA officers when a question arises regarding the SGA Constitution. “Once the committee is steadier, they will deal with more serious issues,” Wozencraft said. “For example, if a senator acts inappropriately or does something we feel is inappropriate on a SGA trip, they will be passed on to the judicial committee which will decide on corrective

action.” According to Wozencraft, the Cameron Supreme Court is much more active than in years past, too. They are working to make an easier route for any students who have an issue, such as parking tickets, to present their case to the Supreme Court. One of the major pieces of legislation that has passed through SGA this year deals with the wireless internet on campus. The legislation called for complete access to wireless service across campus. The legislation passed in SGA and is currently waiting for approval from President Cindy Ross. A couple of pieces of legislation on the floor right now are visitation rules in the Shepler Center and examining the election rules and procedures for SGA. In the future, SGA will be looking at the safety of some of the sidewalks on campus and where more sidewalks are needed. “This has been one of the biggest semesters that I have seen in the last three years since I have been in SGA,” Wozencraft said. “We have legislation already backed into next semester and everyone is working really hard.”

News

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December 3, 2007

Planting a seed Young Farmers and Ranchers of OK build leadership skills By Tami Mann Newswriting Student The Young Farmers and Ranchers of Oklahoma are a diverse group of individuals who have the skills and ability to, not only produce crops and livestock, but to be leaders of America. Cameron University students interested in agriculture have the opportunity to be a part of an organization that will help mold them into leaders as well as producers. The YF&R organization has much more to offer than tips on farming and ranching. It holds the power of a better understanding of regulations and legislations that are being passed by our state and federal law makers that, in turn affect the productions farmers and ranchers survive on. Leadership is the key to any type of success and it is no different in farming and ranching. According to Mike Spradling, former YF&R State Committee member, young people need to have a better understanding of what laws are being passed and how they are going to affect them later on in life. “Farmers and ranchers are only one vote, although each vote counts, that is still less than two percent,” Spradling said. “We are not really that effective until we unite and come together.” Dr. Fischer, head of the Agriculture Department at

Cameron University, says he would like to see a program like the YF&R for CU students. Six members of the YF&R State Committee met Oct. 23 and 24 in Oklahoma City to attend the State Resolutions Meeting. The six members of the YF&R were joined by 70 other county board members of the Oklahoma Farm Bureau from across the state. At that time, four sub-committees were selected and placed in separate meeting rooms to discuss and vote on 96 resolutions to pass on to the state level. On Nov. 9-11, the OFB State Convention was held in Oklahoma City were everyone will hear the final resolutions chosen and then vote to pass or veto. The passed resolutions will then go to the state capitol and be voted on by the House and the Senate. Once a resolution has been passed through both the House and the Senate, it will then go to the Federal level to continue through the process. As each resolution is voted on, some will be rejected. “Do not get discouraged,” Spradling said. According to Spradling, we have the technology to produce enough food to feed the world. However, it is up to the young people to understand what the important things are. “The important thing in agriculture is legislation and regulation,” Spradling said. “And

MCT Campus

the importance of the YF&R is to develop leaders.” Leaders of the YF&R in the past have set a foundation for the young people of today to continue to work on. “Get involved to help yourself and project your future,” Spradling said. Although the organization was set up for individuals between the ages of 18 to 35, the knowledge and experiences gained continue on. “YF&R does not stop at the age 35,” Spradling said. “You carry it with you always.” While some people may not know where their milk and bread come from, others who have spent

many hours on a dairy and on a combine, know exactly where it came from and how much more difficult it is becoming each year to keep that operation going due to restrictions within the legislation. By being apart of an organization such as the YF&R, you learn the importance of participating and understanding what rights lobbyist are fighting for to help farmers and ranchers continue their livelihood. Seeing the YF&R come to CU campus will open up so many opportunities for those interested in agriculture, as well as produce strong leadership on the collegic level.

“The leadership you develop through YF&R is not just in house,” Spradling said. “It goes everywhere you go.” Agriculture is more than just planting seeds and raising livestock. It’s about building leaders and setting a foundation for future farmers and ranchers. While OFB is a grassroots organization, it’s more than an insurance company. OFB continues to lobby for the farmers and ranchers so that we may continue to feed our families and our nation Planting seeds within CU students is just one way to produce leaders of America.

DEBATE continued from page 1 “This year was a building year,” Tournament, which was held Nov. Beck said. “We’ve had all freshmen 30 and Dec. 1 at CU. and sophomores, but we still According to Schabot, over 25 managed to schools were come out on anticipated “This year was a building top. I think to attend, year. We’ve had all freshmen we’ve been and Beck and sophomores, but we still relatively stated that consistent at managed to come out on top. “Cameron’s success this tournament I think we’ve been relatively year.” has become consistent at success this The team like the year.” has brought regional home several tournament.” first place — Bethany Beck Some overall awards speech team Communication Junior members this semester, with Beck and competed for Faggett placing individual in the top six in individual events at awards, but Cameron was not virtually every tournament so far. eligible for team awards because they The trophy case might be full, but hosted the tournament. Schabot said that there is still room “Hosting a tournament is a for improvement. service to the community at large,” “We haven’t done so well in Schabot explained. “We want to give debate,” he said. “I’d like to work on back to people who had us on their that, but for the amount of people we campus. You want to win, but it is have, we do very well.” mainly to give others a chance to Schabot attributes the compete.” team’s consistent success to the At the Christmas Classic, relationships among team members. Kirby finished third in dramatic “The camaraderie is incredible. interpretation, Pacheka was an They are such a tight-knit group,” he IPDA finalist, and Kirby and said. “I think they work to encourage Gonzales were named the top novice each other and keep each other team in parliamentary debate. motivated to work.” Though the team is happy The Big Twelve Swing was the with their successes this semester, last tournament on the Speech and Schabot said that they are always Debate Team’s schedule before they looking for more talent to add to hosted the annual Christmas Classic their squad.

December 10, 2007

News

3

Graphic by Jim Horinek

Student housing starts recycling program By Kareem Guiste Collegian Staff

As the semester comes to a close, CU’s Student Housing Women’s Hall Director Jennifer Head has taken up the initiative to “Go Green,” with a campaign that is geared towards promoting on-campus recycling. The program-type initiative, which is formatted as a competition, kicked off on Nov. 7, 2007, with a “Go Green Party” in the Cameron University McMahon Center. The social event was designed to inform students about the new recycling campaign and its benefits to the university and the world. Head said that the reason for the program is so that people can be more aware of the impact that recycling can have on the world. “Basically, I would like for this program to create some type of awareness for individuals to learn about the impacts of maintaining a clean environment through the recycling process,” said. “I think students who use a lot of these recyclable materials will learn something from this program and continue the idea after the competition.” According to the Recycling Fact Journal (RFJ), recycling one aluminum can saves enough energy to run a TV for three hours, which is the same energy in one half of a gallon of gasoline. Moreover, each ton of recycled paper can save 17 trees, 380 gallons of oil, three cubic yards of landfill space, 4,000 kilowatts of energy, and 7,000 gallons of water. “The information I researched and presented to the students should stick with them at least and create a positive “I am hoping the program change towards their thoughts on the can run through the fall environment,” Head said. 2007 and the spring 2008 Head stated that the recycling competition should entice a fun-filled semesters, giving students a atmosphere with a positive result at the chance to see the progress end. The rules of the competition, which of the idea,” Head said. “A involves the Cameron Village and Shepler Residence, are simple: Students are asked program like this should be to place their tin cans in recycling bins ongoing, so I am expecting that are placed around the dorms and students to commit apartments, instead of just throwing them away. The apartment or dorm f loor with themselves to the cause, the greatest weight in cans will win “Go which is not difficult at all.” Green Campaign” T-shirts. Head said though the prize maybe small, it is the — Jenny Head commitment to the cause that she wants Womens Hall Director students to take note of. “I am hoping the program can run through the fall 2007 and the spring 2008 semesters, giving students a chance to see the progress of the idea,” Head said. “A program like this should be ongoing, so I am expecting students to commit themselves to the cause, which is not difficult at all.” The recycling bins are already filling up, which is a good sign that students are together with the program. It only takes a little spark to get something going, and Head is trying just that with the “Go Green” initiative. She hopes that all of Cameron will go green and adopt the recycling program throughout campus in the near future. “I do not know a lot of schools that do not recycle, but it takes of a lot of resources as well,” Head said. “But at the end of this program we should hope to see Cameron take up the idea and at least start a small campuswide recycling program.”

News

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December 10, 2007

Studying tips in the nick of time By Brandi O’Daniel Collegian Staff With final exams just two weeks away, Cameron students are already dreading and preparing for finals week. An all-night cram session fueled by caffeine, dragging into class the next morning and regurgitating information memorized from the night before are not unheard of for many college students. However, the importance of finding the time, motivation and studying habitats that work best has probably fallen on deaf ears. There are vast differences in the strategies students use to study for exams, and what works for one student may not for another. For Biology senior, Amanda Templeton learning the information is better in the long run than cramming the night before a test. “Cramming works in very few situations,” she said. “College is about the experience and life learning. If I’m going to pay for it, I’m also going to get something more than a letter on a transcript out of it.” Templeton prefers to use the Leitner method with flash cards to learn and retain test material. “I start making flashcards from my notes and after all the cards are made I go

through them once sorting them into three piles,” said Templeton. “I separate them into piles labeled ‘no problem’, ‘stumbled’ and ‘I don’t know it’. Then I go through them until there is one pile.” While this may be more time and energy than students are willing to spend, it may be necessary depending on the class. Some students would rather learn with fellow students who can help them stay focused and understand course material from another perspective. Courtney Weske, a sophomore studying Nursing

Finals Schedule Normal Class Time

Exam Time

Tuesday, Dec. 11 8 a.m. TR 10 a.m. Daily, MWF, MW, M p.m. TR, T and 2:30 TR

8 - 10 a.m. 10 - 12 p.m. 2 1 - 3 p.m.

Wednesday, Dec 12 1:30 p.m. Daily, MW, MWF, M 8 - 10 a.m. 2 p.m. MWF, MW, W 10 - 12 p.m. p.m. Daily, MWF, M, R 1 - 3 p.m. and 3:30 TR Any class not listed 3 - 5 p.m.

3

Thursday, Dec. 13 9 a.m. Daily, MWF, MW and 9:30 MWF 11 a.m. TR, T 12 p.m. Daily, MWF, MW 12:30 p.m. TR, R, F

8 - 10 a.m. 10 - 12 p.m. 1 - 3 p.m. 3 - 5 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 14 8 a.m. Daily, MWF, MW 9:30 a.m. TR, T, R and 9 TR 11 a.m. Daily, MWF, MW, F and 11:30 Daily 1 p.m. Daily, MWF, MW, M, F

8 - 10 a.m. 10 - 12 p.m. 1 - 3 p.m. 3 - 5 p.m.

Finals for night classes should be held on the last scheduled class night.

said, “I study the best when I’m with someone like in a group because it helps me to stay on topic.” While students may prefer group study sessions, they can also be distracting and more work than studying solo. Templeton said: “You have to choose your study partners wisely. You want to make sure they have the same expectations in the group that you do and that they are also willing to work as hard as you. There should be a balance of self-study and group study to be well-prepared for a test.” There is no question that college students have found various ways to prepare for tests, but listening, taking notes and participating in class lectures are essential in learning and understanding course material. Associate Professor of Physical Science, Kurtis Koll said: “For me, attending class is an important, necessary aspect of higher education. High education is an exchange of ideas: it is a dialogue. You can not participate in dialogue by missing class. Also, students can ask questions in class and the instructor can clarify any information.” Another important factor in preparing for exams is how often students spend studying for classes. For some, the least amount of time necessary to cram in as much information as possible is enough. However, the golden rule, which many professors still advocate for students, is to study two hours a day per credit hour. Following that theory, students taking 15 hours should be studying 30 hours a week. This can be difficult for anyone trying to juggle a work schedule or a social life along with a full course load. Templeton tries to balance everything by setting aside at least one day a week to take her mind off of school. “I take one night a week, generally Friday night, and I do no homework, school work, studying etc. I typically veg and go to dinner and a movie,” Templeton said. “The school week, however is dedicated to school work in one fashion or another.” Whatever method of studying CU students choose, the consensus among professors and students is that studying early always helps alleviate some of the unnecessary stress that accompanies finals week. Templeton added that students should pace themselves when preparing for finals or any upcoming test. “Always give yourself earned breaks. Look at the light at the end of the tunnel and pray it’s not a train,” Templeton said.

News

December 10, 2007

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ADAMS continued from page 1 They said it was hard to see him in the condition he was in. “He was conscious and speaking,” Mr. Adams said. “He knew what was going on and that was hard.” Mr. Adams said the loss grows harder as time goes on. “For the first few weeks, we thought it was like he was on a trip somewhere,” he said. “But now, it’s been too long. Things are very hard now and we have to accept it.” Mr. and Mrs. Adams are now turning their attention toward Christmas. Adams’ brothers and sister will be home to celebrate the holiday. Mrs. Adams said his brothers haven’t seen him in a long time. “The boys were in Florida, so they didn’t have a chance to see him before he died,” she said. “We’re going to spend a lot of the time talking about him.” Mrs. Adams said her son’s friends were arriving at the hospital to pay their respects. When he was f lown to Oklahoma City, many of the family’s friends were waiting when she and her husband arrived. “There were probably hundreds of people and friends at the hospital,” Mrs. Adams said. “We had hundreds come by the house as well.”

Mrs. Adams said there was a constant f low of people coming to express their sorrow over the loss. Jamie Glover, CU Director of Community Relations, said Cameron has done several things on a personal level to help the family and friends deal with Adams’ death. “It’s a very tough situation that really breaks our hearts,” she said. “One of his classes had a moment of silence in his memory and there have been other independent memorials.” The university has set up counseling through the Office of Student Development to help any students who might have been affected. President Cindy Ross called Adams’ parents twice to express her sorrow. A statement from President Ross said, “The Cameron University family is deeply saddened by the loss of Caleb. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends as they try to cope with the tragic loss. On behalf of our faculty, staff and students, I offer our deepest sympathy to his family and friends.” While many of his friends try to cope with their loss, Mr. Adams said he and his wife are going to move forward and

Photo courtesy of Lawrence and Pam Adams

A new beginning: Caleb Adams celebrated his graduation from Cache High School in 2006. He was studying as a Business sophomore at the time of his death. remember the man Adams was before the accident. “When you look at the big scheme, you see some things that are bigger than all of us,” he said. “We personally just believe God is in control. You don’t understand why this occurs, but we’ll stand by our faith in God

Photo courtesy of Lawrence and Pam Adams

Nothing more important than family: Caleb Adams sits with his sister, Tiffany Brown, who is an Agriculture senior at Cameron. Brown lived at home with her parents, along with Caleb.

JANDA continued from page 1 Although affluence can greatly benefit society, it also “Big business has a product has the potential to cause for every need we might have. damages. This is because we have the Increasing technology is money to spend on it.” often perceived as a positive result. However, some new products often come with — Dr. Lance Janda unintentional social problems, Associate Professor of History Dr. Janda said. For example, automobiles brought unexpected pollution. Americans currently represent 2 of technologies such as cell phones percent of the world’s population and and other electronic devices has produce half of the world’s pollution. increasingly made America a less Additionally, the development social society.

The effects of affluence reach beyond an individual country’s borders to countries around the world. Dr. Janda said that America’s high level of affluence makes us envied and hated by the world. The freedoms and material possessions are desirable, while the power and influence that comes with affluence can be threatening. It is so easy to go on autopilot, Dr. Janda said, but it is important to compare ourselves with other countries and to realize the consequences that our choices can have not only on our own country but on the world. Lunch Bag Lectures are held on the third Thursday of every month from 12:15 p.m. to 1:15 p.m. and are open to everyone 14 years old and above. For more information about the lectures, contact the Leslie Powell Gallery at 580.357.9526 or send e-mails to LpArtGallery@ sbcglobal.net.

family. She still remembers saying and get through it.” Their faith has helped Mr. and good-bye to him on the day of the accident Mrs. Adams through their hard “He had a desire to stay home times. “I don’t see how someone could and not move away from us,” she said. “He was there eating experience something like this breakfast and survive every without morning some kind of “When you look at the big with us. faith,” Mr. It’s hard. Adams said. scheme, you see some things that are bigger than all of us. He was the Mrs. baby of the Adams We personally just believe family.” prefers to God is in control. We don’t Cache remember understand why this occurs, High her son as the young but we’ll stand by our faith in School, where man who God and get through it.” Adams was aspiring played to be a — Lawrence Adams basketball, sports agent. She Father of Caleb Adams retired the number said he 22 in his was always memory. filled full Mr. Adams said the family of confidence and was sure of his appreciates the outpouring from life. everyone and said the thoughts “He wasn’t cocky, but when he and prayers have made it easier to made a decision, he would stand cope. by that decision,” she said. “He “We appreciate all the support was always at peace with himself. we’ve had from kids and family He loved his life and he wouldn’t as well as our church family,” she have chosen to die at 19.” said. “The outpouring of love has Mrs. Adams said what been instrumental in helping us ultimately made the loss carry on.” extremely hard was how Adams preferred to stay home, with his

News

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December 10, 2007

Changing Lives Campaign flourishes By Jim Horinek Collegian Staff Adding to the rich history and making strides toward the future, the unprecedented Changing Lives Campaign is making a large impact on the Cameron campus. The Changing Lives Campaign, which began in January of 2006,

is an $8.5 million fundraising campaign that will fund several projects on campus. Those projects include the Bentley Gardens, Student Activities Complex and endowed faculty positions. According to President Cindy Ross the campaign is one of the largest of its kind. “We started out with an $8.5

million goal, which was very ambitious. It was the very first comprehensive campaign Cameron has ever done,” President Ross said. “And the largest three-year campaign of any regional university in the state of Oklahoma.” After the campaign got underway it quickly became clear that there were many supporters of Cameron. “Individuals, organizations business and foundations have all stepped forward and in the middle of July we had passed the $8.5 million mark two years into the three year campaign,” President Ross said. As a result of the great response from donors it became clear that a larger goal could be possible. “Of course when there is a year left on the campaign it only makes sense to expand the goal. So we expanded it to $10 million,” President Ross said. This expansion, which called

for Cameron to reach out for more donations, became known as the “Dig Deeper Challenge.” According to President Ross, Cameron has many needs that the contributions of other help to fulfill. “We are a state-supported institution and, particularly this year, our state appropriation only increased 0.68 percent and students are having to pay more,” President Ross said. “These private contributions go a long way to providing scholarship support to students and to meeting some of our faculty development needs.” According to President Ross, donations have come not only from the community but also the Cameron faculty. “Our faculty and staff combined with our retired faculty and staff have now contributed over $75,000,” President Ross said. Of the many donors that Cameron receives support from

there are varying factors of interest. For example, Dr. Charles Graybill and his wife Betty Graybill have made many donations to Cameron. The Graybill’s tie to Cameron comes in part from his appreciation for what Cameron did for his education and career. “I was a student in 1937 out here at Cameron. I went there a year and got everything I needed to go to medical school,” Dr. Graybill said. “My big interest in Cameron is that I have seen it grow and I went there. I know what it was way back then. It is a wonderful thing now compared to that.” President Ross attributes much of Cameron’s current and future success to the generous contributions that Cameron has and continues to receive. “Cameron simply would not be the university it is without the private support that we receive. The private support really is that margin of difference,” President Ross said.

Graphics courtesy of Community Relations

Couple’s donation paves way for future By Joshua Rouse Collegian Staff Nearly 65 years ago, in 1943, Cameron Junior College offered Glyn and Virginia Mitchell a brighter future with a pair of degrees. Today, in 2007, the Mitchells are giving Cameron University a brighter future with a $35,000 donation. “When we attended college, we didn’t have a student union and a lot of the things we did outside of class were done in classrooms,” Mrs. Mitchell said. “We wanted our donation to go to the new student complex so that future generations of Cameron students can enjoy fun at college.” President Cindy Ross accepted their donation in August. She said the Mitchells’ donations have helped assure Cameron’s future. “A university is known by the quality of its graduates, and Glyn and Virginia Mitchell exemplify the strength of Cameron’s alumni,” Ross said. “Glyn and Virginia have succeeded professionally and remember the firm foundation they received at Cameron. Their contribution to the ‘Changing Lives’ campaign helps ensure Cameron’s

success into its second century.” The Mitchells were inspired to donate to Cameron’s fund raising campaign after they came back to the campus after more than a half century since their last visit. Mrs. Mitchell said the changes on campus were astounding. “We returned last year when they had an alumni reunion,” she said. “We were certainly proud that it had grown to be a university rather than a small junior college like when we were there.” The Mitchells married two weeks after World War II ended. Mr. Mitchell went to work for a construction company south of Duncan. After a year, he started working with Philips Petroleum

will see as a junior Cameron engineer. as a viable “Much “I can’t see any reason why, option for of the stuff where Cameron is located, furthering I learned at that it can’t be the premiere their Cameron university in the state of education. helped Oklahoma. That’s my hope for “I can’t contribute see any to my the university’s future.” reason career,” Mr. why, where Mitchell —Glyn Mitchell Cameron is said. Cameron donor located, that Mr. it can’t be Mitchell the premiere feels if university Cameron in the state of Oklahoma,” Mr. had more facilities, students would Mitchell said. “That’s my hope for stay in Southwest Oklahoma and the university’s future.” attend college in the area. With his Mrs. Mitchell hopes she and her donation, he hopes more students

husband are alive to see the opening of the Student Activities Complex next year. “I hope to be there at the opening of the complex and see what we have contributed to a college that helped us so much,” she said. “I think the school could benefit a lot from students in this area and the student complex is a good benefit for them.” Mr. Mitchell said he and his wife will be watching Cameron’s future, one way or another. “If we don’t live long enough to see it, we’ll still be at the opening of the complex,” he said. “Whether that means we’re watching it from here on Earth or up there yonder in the sky.”

Graphic courtesy of Community Relations

News Centennial year brings major changes for Cameron campus

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December 10, 2007

Construction paves way for future buildings, improvements

By Bira Vidal Collegian Staff Cameron University’s campus constructions are gradually becoming a reality and CU is making the necessary arrangements to introduce new buildings and facilities to students by the beginning of the 2008 fall semester. The new building locations are scattered throughout campus and construction sites are already visible. According to President Cindy Ross, most of the buildings are in partial construction or in route to be constructed. “The ones that are in the works right now are the Business Building, the Bentley Gardens, the Student Activities Complex, the parking lot south of Shepler and CETES phase II,” President Ross said. The Business Building has been undergoing construction since the summer of 2007. The old Business Building will be replaced by a new, technologyenhanced facility that will help

students in different fields. “The Business Building will be a state-of-the-art building with all kinds of computer labs and accounting labs that the students do not now have access to,” President Ross said, “I am particularly excited that we’ll also have a simulated Wall Street trading area. I think it will just really enhance our Business program.” The expansion of the Center for Emerging Technology and Entrepreneurial Studies is also taking place. The phase II of CETES will add a south section to the building. President Ross said CETES has been a valuable addition to students’ learning experience. There were some delays in the construction of CETES phase II. These were connected to a prior project. According to Glen Pinkston, Vice President for Business and Finance, the original design was not possible because of the budget. Modifications were made to adjust

CETES Phase II

Business Building

the new design to the money involved. “We did a design, and it was way over budget,” Pinkston said. “When that happens we go back [and redo the budget]. They should start construction in December.” Another reason for the construction of new buildings is the Centennial celebration entitled: “Cameron University: Changing Lives for 100 Years.” The remembrance will focus on Cameron’s past accomplishments throughout the years, but at the same time it looks at Cameron’s future. Two of the buildings set for the Centennial commemoration are the new Student Activities Complex and the Bentley Gardens. Both constructions will be located on the current parking lot north of the Shepler Towers and south of the Student Union. The foundations for the buildings have been possible through the donations gathered in the Centennial campaign. The initial goal of the campaign was to raise $8.5 million. “We put together a very ambitious campaign of $8.5 million to raise money for four areas: the Student Activities Complex, endowed faculty positions, students scholarships and the Bentley Gardens,” President Ross said. “This was the very first comprehensive campaign Cameron has ever done and the largest three-year

campaign any regional “I think the new construction will really university in generate a lot of activities, a fuller Oklahoma collegiate experience. The Centennial has ever Complex of course will be the focal point done.” The for student activity.” campaign reached its — Dr. Cindy Ross goal within President of Cameron University a two-year period out of the expected three years. “We have to coordinate The Dig Deeper Challenge was the Bentley Gardens with the then created to achieve $10 completion of the Business million as a further construction Building and the Student Activities supplement for the Centennial Complex,” Pinkston said. Buildings. The impact of new building The conclusion for all the new construction during Cameron’s buildings around campus will Centennial Celebration will be related to the progress of the let students and the Lawton construction and the amount of community interact with the money put into it according to University during its critical time of President Ross. expansion and advancement. “We hope to break ground on “I think the new construction the Student Activities Complex will really generate a lot of in the spring. It will depend on activities, a fuller collegiate our fundraising,” President Ross experience. The Centennial said. “The Business building will Complex of course will be the be ready by Fall 2008 and CETES focal point for student activity,” phase II should be around that President Ross said. “We also want same time frame, maybe a little to be the location of choice for the later.” Pinkston explained the buildings community. I think it will not only transform Cameron University, I will go through a synchronization think it will transform the entire of constructions due to the community.” machinery that will be used on all sites.

Campus parking undergoes renovations for future semesters By Joshua Rouse Collegian Staff Cameron is growing and those changes are bringing about growing pains, especially for parking. Glen Pinkston, Vice President of Business and Finance, said frustrations are going to be expected as Cameron transitions from a commuter school to more of a traditional university. The parking will be similar, but will be located in differernt areas. “If you look at the parking as it is right now, everything is in the center of the university,” Pinkston said. “Moving the parking more toward the perimeter of the college is more in line with President Ross’ vision for the college. We’re always going to be a commuter school and we don’t want to alienate our commuters. But we’d like to look a little less commuter-like.” As construction begins on the new Student Activities Complex, which will be located in the parking lot in front of the Science Complex, parking in the center of campus will be reduced. Eventually, all North Shepler parking will be removed. “When we say we’re talking out the parking in the North Shepler

area,” Pinkston said, “we mean all makeover. Pinkston believes when of the parking.” the parking is removed from in However, Pinkston assured front of the Science Complex, more students more parking is being people will begin utilizing the prepared. It just won’t be in the West Shepler parking. center of the campus like before. “We’ve been studying this for a “A lot while now,” of people he said. “We complaining have cameras “If you look at the parking as about the it is right now, everything is in mounted lack of and we the center of the university. parking can watch, Moving the parking more are doing through so because time-lapse, toward the perimeter of the it’s not as and see the college is more in line with convenient parking President Ross’ vision for the for them to patterns for college. We’re always going park on the the campus edge of the to be a commuter school and lots.” campus as it Pinkston we don’t want to alienate our is to park in sees the commuters. But we’d like to a lot that’s parking right in changes as a look a little less commuterfront of their like.” way to utilize building,” he the parking said. available on — Glen Pinkston campus and A new Vice President of Business and make more parking lot is being built Finance efficient use south of of the space. the Shepler After the towers and will be completed in construction is done, there will be time for the spring semester. The less parking spots than before, but parking lot on the west side of the he said that shouldn’t be a problem. Shepler towers is also getting a “What I like to call the West,

West Shepler parking lot isn’t completely used,” Pinkston said. “And that’s for a number of reasons. We’re addressing many of those reasons with our remodeling.” He said the reason a lot of people don’t use that lot is because of the condition of the lot itself and the lack of lighting. Right now, crews are repaving the lot and are putting in tree wells and lights. Pinkston said he has looked at the parking plans and the parking near Burch Hall has been remodeled to help give students easier access. “Before, to get to Burch Hall parking, you had to go off campus,” he said. “We’re using a more efficient access for parking compared to before.” Students can now access Burch Hall parking from 38th Street or from West Hall parking. Pinkston said the walk might be further for some students, but it’s relative to where they have to go. “Some people will have further to walk after the construction is done,” he said. “Other people will have less to walk. It all depends on where they’re parking and their destination. We’re just making sure that we utilize the land we have right now.”

The number of faculty parking spots has yet to be finalized. There isn’t a standard number of faculty parking spots compared to student parking. “We haven’t measured off space yet in the South Shepler parking lot,” Pinkston said. “I would hope it will be proportionate because there’s no faculty parking in the West Shepler parking lot.” Pinkston felt it would be smarter for the university to make faculty parking available on the northwest end of the Shepler towers because it’d be closer to the Science Complex. “It’s something we haven’t looked at yet,” he said. “But it will be finalized.” Ultimately, the only parking that’s being removed is the area north of the Shepler buildings. Pinkston estimates 130 spots will be lost after construction is done. Construction on the Student Activities Complex will begin in January. “Obviously, when we begin to move the construction equipment into the parking, we’re going to have to close it,” Pinkston said. “We’ll keep some spots open for a while for the Fitness Center. But they’ll be removed eventually.”

Voices

8

December 10, 2007

A gift worth giving

The true value of a present is not written on the price tag

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t’s the thought that counts. This tired, old cliché is often uttered in jest when a gift is given that proves to be less than what the recipient had expected or when a gift is not given at all. I have found through the years that I have plenty to be thankful for and certain holidays, like Christmas, allow me to express, in a gift, my appreciation to those I care about. I have a loving family that is not without its

MCT Campus

Laura Batule

foibles and eccentricities, much like all “normal” families. And like many others, we share a love of Christmas. Satellite television and classic movies on DVD allow us to travel through time and space to a “Little House on the Prairie,” watch George Bailey discover that “It’s a Wonderful Life” and even laugh as Ralphie laments for the Red Rider BB Gun. We see these families discovering the true meaning of Christmas as they give modest, thoughtful gifts, painstakingly made, given and received with heartfelt joy. Last year, I gave my mother a travel hair dryer, which was purchased last minute at a nationally-known gadget store on Christmas Eve Day. Not my finest hour, and a miserable failure on the heartfelt joy meter. I spoke to my mom last month about that Christmas present and she told me about her single Christmas gift regret, a giant bottle of Blue Danube perfume she gave to her mother. More than 50 years ago, my grandmother gave my mom $20 to purchase Christmas presents. After purchasing gifts for her father, sister and friends, my mom had one dollar left to spend on her mother’s gift. Not only was the gift last minute and cheap, but my grandmother was allergic to

perfume, a known fact my mother admits she chose to ignore in her haste. My mother still regrets that bottle of Blue Danube perfume just as I regret that portable hair dryer. After my grandmother passed away, my mom and I were sorting through her things. In a box of trash was a copy of “An Irish Blessing” in a cheap, faded, plastic frame. I took it out of the trash without telling anyone. That Christmas, I successfully re-gifted. I had the discarded print matted and framed and gave it to my mom. I cried as I gave it to her and she cried when she realized what it was. It was not an expensive gift, in fact, the portable blow dryer cost more than the matting and framing. The difference was that it was a thoughtful gift. In this case, it really was the thought that counted. Take time this month and contemplate what you can do to bring holiday spirit into your life. Racing around on Christmas Eve day, wearing out an abused credit card will only cause heartfelt regret in January when the bills

activities and social appointments, time is a precious commodity. While 30 Boxes (http:// www.30boxes.com) can’t add

hours to the day, the online calendar’s impressive feature set offers you the tools to create order in a chaotic schedule. It’s mostly the little touches

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arrive. Need some suggestions? Pay attention to that certain someone and think about what would make their life a little bit easier, nicer or more beautiful. Relax - there is time. Thanksgiving just passed and Christmas is weeks away. Thinking of re-gifting? I successfully re-gifted the Irish Blessing print. There are times when “re-gifting” is not only acceptable, but proves to bring joy to both the recipient and the giver. My mother recently attended a baby shower where her friend, Sue (the grandmother-to-be), did not deplete the inventory of baby departments in the local mall.

Instead, Sue refinished her daughters’ old high chair and gave a gift worthy of a “Little House on the Prairie” episode: a practical gift, lovingly restored and sure to be a treasured heirloom for generations. If the person on your gift list is a gadget lover, by all means, head to the mall and find the perfect gift. If financial constraints do not allow for that, start thinking now and avoid the stress, financial burden and commercialism of the holiday season with a gift from the heart. The thought does count.

Organize the new year with 30 Boxes By Eric Goodwin MCT Campus Between juggling class assignments, extracurricular

that help set 30 Boxes apart. Unlike traditional calendar applications, 30 Boxes allows you to type statements to add entries to your calendar. For example, to set a weekend afternoon study session with classmates, you’d simple type “study date Saturday 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.” in the site’s lone text entry field and it instantly shows up on your calendar. 30 Boxes shows you the extended weather forecast for the week, so you can plan accordingly. If MCT Campus your friends

also have 30 Boxes accounts, you can have their events show up on your calendar and vice versa. It has a “webtop” view that makes your web browser look like a computer desktop, laying out all your tasks for the day along with a handy Google search bar to begin your web searching. One of the most compelling things about 30 Boxes is how well it works with other online services as well as desktop applications. You can link your appointments to Google Maps to get automatic driving directions as well as sync your 30 Boxes calendar to your iCal (Mac users) or Outlook (Windows users) programs. 30 Boxes also features Buddy Cards, small widgets you can add to your MySpace or Facebook accounts that show your events for the day as well as stream photos from your Flickr account.

Voices

December 10, 2007

9

U.S. power should be redirected For too long, America has subscribed to the very same exploitation practices that our forefathers fought to free our country from at the birth of our nation. For too long, America has been run by politicians more concerned with what they can get from the world than with what they can give to the world. And for too long, Americans have had to sit there and suck on the lies of politicians because money rather than the people elects our leaders. We, all Americans, have lost sight of what makes our country great. We have been blinded by our past successes, by our current power and to our future responsibilities. This blindness is most evident in our politicians. The success of our society began with our own collective concept of America. Most Americans believe we are the richest, most militarily powerful, and most inf luential nation on the planet. While all these things may be true, they do not give us the right to act like we own the world. We are one nation in a worldwide community of nations. Our leaders have used the power and inf luence of America to stick America’s nose into the problems of other nations, where

it does not belong, while ignoring our own problems here at home. Ultimately, we need to rediscover our own roots. If we read between the lines of the Declaration of Independence, we will discover that America began as nation that wanted the right to control its own destiny and respected the rights of other nations to control theirs. With this in mind, the way back to our roots really only requires our leaders to do one thing: redeploy all our military personnel and assets back to the homeland. With the exception of those in Afghanistan, this includes not only the troops in Iraq, but also those in Korea, Germany, Italy, Japan, and anywhere else we have long-established bases and camps. Our military bases positioned all over the world equates to the same exploitive colonization attempts of the Roman Empire, Victorian England, Nazi Germany and Communist Russia. What the redeployment corrects is the lack of American land, sea and air border security since our military could focus on our own borders rather than those of other countries. Redeployment stops the perpetual drain of American tax dollars lost to foreign nations

David L. Bublitz

whether they are landlords held-over from resolved 50year-old conf licts or those who are patiently draining our tax dollars as they wait for America to hand them over a squeaky clean Arab-world democracy. Redeployment also sends a message to the world, one that clearly states that America is not the world police. Redeployment would force all nations to be responsible for themselves. Redeployment also sets America up as a responsible world leader who is unwilling to act unilaterally, which provides for a climate of cooperation and diplomacy in the world community when world issues arise. America can set a good example to the other nations in our world community by refusing to use our power and inf luence to the point of exploitation. Imagine what America could accomplish if we simply tended our own business and offered our support to the world as only one sovereign nation willing to help in a fair and equitable manner. We could fund research to produce zero-emission vehicles and power plants, we could increase education/career opportunities for our citizens, we could secure our borders and thus our way of life, we could restore our pride in our country, and we

could a m pu s gain the M CT C favorable vote matters more esteem from our when you talk about world neighbors. issues and provide solutions. It all starts with one thing: Politicians listen to those who U.S. speak up because they ally people We, each American, needs to who speak up with people who speak out about the issues that are important to us and provide a vote. Action cures a lot of things. It all starts with one thing: solution to these issues. U.S. We are not powerless. We can reject the common THE CAMERON UNIVERSITY trend of automaticity that says our vote does not matter. When Americans, especially those who stand the most to lose: young Founded in 1926 Americans, believe our individual veritas sempiterna votes do not matter, causing us not to vote, then they don’t. The politicians know this voting anomyly exists, thus, those with money have less people to win over for their elected positions, something they tend to use their money to accomplish. They get away with it because the majority of Americans of voting age do not vote. Editorial Board Your vote only does not matter Editor-in-Chief - Jessica Lane when you refuse to use it. Your News Editor - Josh Rouse

COLLEGIAN

Generation X gets recycled Surfing the worldwide interwebs the other day, I stumbled across a startling, and somewhat amusing, fact. Take a step back and look at the state of affairs in the country and the world. Don’t just look at the political structure, but also the entertainment industry and life in general. Do you see something? It’s the 1990s all over again. Normally, I’m not one for reminiscing. The past should stay in the past. But after someone mentioned this fact, it’s become a curse. Knowing this is like seeing the arrow in every FedEx logo. Once you’ve seen it, that’s all you’ll notice. Take a look at the political climate first. There’s a Bush in the White House, the Democrats control Congress, we’re in

another Gulf War and a Clinton is challenging for the presidency. Now, of course, there are some differences. George H. W. Bush didn’t have a Vice President that shot people with shotguns. The first Gulf War wasn’t a disaster like this one. And this Clinton actually can exercise some discretion in the bedroom. Though the Democrats are still as incompetent as ever in the Congress. There’s still conf lict going on between Israelis and Palestinians. But let’s face it, there’s never going to be anything other than conf lict going on over there. They’ve been fighting for hundreds of years; I don’t think a monkey-looking buffoon who dresses in a suit is going to be able to talk them out of killing each other. But that’s for another time. Take a look at the television compared to the early 1990s. Back then, “The X-Files” came out of nowhere to be the biggest hit on television since “Gunsmoke.” Today, “Heroes” came out of nowhere to be

MCT Campus

the biggest hit on television since “The X-Files.” Both feature enigmatic leading men (Moulder in “The X-Files” and Peter in “Heroes”) and both feature charismatic villains (The Cigarette Smoking man in “The X-Files” and Sylar in “Heroes”). Let’s hope “Heroes” doesn’t spend nine seasons trying to fill plot holes the size of Texas. While watching “Heroes” last Monday, I happened to see a commercial for a new incarnation of “American Gladiators.” Now anyone who ever watched television during the 1990s knows what “American Gladiators” was. I do believe it was one of the most successful sports shows of all time. It’s coming back again this January. What a surprise that was. After more than 10 years of absence, what finally brought the show back? Good question. Let’s hope they actually have interesting competitors instead of turning it into a rip-off of professional wrestling. Look no further than this spring and summer to see a blast from the past. In March, the mean-green fighting machines came back to the big screen after more than a decade hiding in the sewers. “TMNT” marked the return of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and it came back with a bang. That was possibly the greatest kids show ever to grace televisions. And there are talks of making it a franchise once again. Who would have thought?

Four months later, “Transformers” resurrected itself from its nearly 20-year slumber to come back to the silver screen. Anyone hearing Optimus Prime’s voice in the theater probably felt their heart skip a beat. A lot of us grew up watching that show every morning while eating a bowl of cereal with some kind of “Transformers” toy being given away with five proofs of purchase. It’s like our childhood has come back so that we can pass it on to our children. If this hasn’t convinced you, look at the sports scene. Okay, ignore baseball. Yeah, we’re all happy the Boston Red Sox won the World Series. Personally, I was going for the Colorado Rockies. Look at the NFL. The Dallas Cowboys have taken back the thrown as king of the NFL. Ignore the Patriots. If it wasn’t for their cheating, they wouldn’t be near as good as they are. I’ll probably get hate mail for that one. And I’m not even a Cowboys fan. Now, if only the Buffalo Bills could pull themselves together and challenge in the next Super Bowl. I’d still go for the Bills today. Maybe I’m grasping at straws. Call it fate if you wish, but it seems like there’s a certain pattern beginning to make itself apparent. Perhaps, we should look back and see the mistakes we made and it’ll make things better? World Peace! Okay, maybe that’s grasping at too many straws.

Josh Rouse

Assistant News Editor: Jim Horinek Copy Editor - Malinda Rust A&E Editor - Amanda Herrera Sports Editor - Kareem Guiste Variety Editor - Bira Vidal Assistant Editor - David R. Bublitz

Newsroom Staff Ads Manager - Kelley Burt Cartoonist - Thomas Pruitt Financial Officer - Susan Hill Staff Writers - David L. Bublitz, Jessica Frazier, Kyle Weatherly, Kerry Meyers, Brandi O’Daniel, Jacob Russell, Ashley Wilkerson, Elizabeth Yocham, Laura Batule

Faculty Adviser Dr. Christopher Keller

Newswriting Students Chris Allison, Bennett Dewan, Henry Evans, Diana Harger, Erik Hurley, Tamra Mann, Valerie Pennington, Adrienne Reid, Lauren Roberts, John Robertson, Danielle Rogers, Clayton Wright

About Us The official student newspaper of Cameron University, The Cameron Collegian is available each Monday during the year. It is printed by the Times Record News in Wichita Falls, Texas.

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.

A&E

10

December 10, 2007

Opera ends semester on whimsical note By Laura Batule

University Theatre. Scott Richard Klein, Chair of the Theatre Arts Department explained all seven students in the cast are music majors. Holly Le, a Cameron graduate, provided accompaniment for the production. “The Medium” is an opera that tells the story of Madame Flora, a charlatan played by Kellee LeRoy,

who conducts fake séances with the assistance of her daughter, Monica, Collegian Staff played by Cassy Hill and a mute The Cameron University gypsy boy named Toby, played by School of Liberal Arts presented Elijah Ramirez. While swindling the “The Medium.” The opera was three customers, Madame Flora composed by Gian Carlo Menotti, feels a hand around her throat and is showcasing the proven talents of the terrified, convinced that it was Toby. Department of Music and Theatre Cast members melodiously weaved a Arts on Dec. 7-9, 2007 at the web of distrust, paranoia and deceit as the opera unfolds, leaving the audience uncertain about how things will eventually conclude. Though the direction and the pace of events in the plot were uncertain, there was absolutely no uncertainty regarding the talent of the cast. Their voices soared with passion Photos by Laura Batule and beauty, and the audience Right on key: Madame Flora (Kellee LeRoy) is comforted by her daughter, Monica was riveted by (Cassy Hill) while the mute, Toby (Elijah Ramirez) looks on. “The Medium” is an opera each aria of about an unstable medium who fakes seances. this curiously

intriguing tale. Both the acting experience and singing skills of the cast contributed to a successful story. “Students have been in rehearsal since the beginning of the semester and working on sets and costumes for the past month,” Klein said. Faculty members are also part of the theatrical team at Cameron with Michelle Cook, Assistant Theatre Professor, in charge of scenic and lighting design and Samantha Miller, as the costume designer for this production. The cast of “The Medium” took full advantage of the opportunity to shine in this production. Cameron students had the opportunity to experience, without cost, an entertainment genre normally reserved for those with deeper pockets than the average college student. “This event was made possible due to a lectureship that was established by the Southwest Oklahoma

Opera Guild,” Scott Richard Klein said. “This type of production costs approximately 2,400 dollars; the lectureship interest provides the necessary funding.” The investment of time, energy and funding paid an enormous return to all those who attended, as well as to the cast who will apply this experience and labor to broaden their growing theatrical portfolio. The final scene left a spellbound audience wondering if the condemned Toby was the culprit. But perhaps more importantly, many audience members exited with a strong curiosity about the next opportunity to enjoy the musical and theatrical talents of fellow students.

PAC winter dance proves to be success By Elizabeth Yocham Collegian Staff

Cameron students donned their evening wear and traded in their end of the semester worries and stress for a pair of dancing shoes and a stress free evening of music, memories and entertainment at PAC’s Winter Dance. PAC’s semi-formal Winter Dance was Dec. 4 in the Centennial Ballroom and was open to all CU students and their guests. The evening offered one last opportunity to have fun before semester exams said Jessica Daoang senior Business major and chair of the Winter Dance event. “Students had an entertaining and free night of food and music,” Daoang said. “They enjoyed time with their friends and loved ones at a night of dancing to an amazing DJ.” According to Amanda Dudkoski, junior Family Science major and Winter Dance attendee, the dance gave her the opportunity to spend time with friends and relax in a different environment. “It was an opportunity for my friends and I to just go and hang out in a different atmosphere,” Amanda Dudkowski junior Family Science major said. Besides offering a night of fun, the Winter Dance gave students an opportunity to escape pre-finals-week-blues, pressures and worries. “Towards the end of the semester as students all we think about are assignments, papers and tests it was nice to have the opportunity to just get away for the evening,” Dudkowski said. This year was the first time PAC hosted a Winter Dance. The event was well attended and because of its success PAC members hope to make the dance an annual tradition. This was our first Winter Dance and we hope that it was a big hit, Daoang said. It was well attended so we definitely hope to have another Winter Dance next year. The dance was the last PAC event of the semester, she said. “We hope that it brought out students for a night of relaxation before school is out and before everyone heads home for the holiday season.”

The Gaming Corner

Controversy surrounds terminated game critic By Joshua Rouse Collegian Staff Over the past two weeks, Internet gaming Web sites and message boards have been in a constant state of heightened awareness since Gamespot senior editor Jeff Gerstmann was fired. The comic Web site PennyArcade broke the news that Gerstmann had been fired for his bad review over the Eidos shooter “Kane and Lynch.” Supposedly, if you believe the Internet and the people with the tinfoil hats, Gerstmann wrote a review that angered Eidos, which had paid $500,000 for ads on the Gamespot Web site. But then again, if you listen to these people, they’ll tell you the government is out to get you and they were abducted by aliens. I’m not going to say one way or another whether Gerstmann was fired for his review over “Kane

and Lynch.” I don’t know all the details surrounding the firing and I probably never will. Both C|Net and Gamespot have said his review had nothing to do with his termination. I think that should be enough for most people. But, the tin foil hat Lone Gunmen refuse to believe that. So, let’s say he was fired solely because he wrote a bad review over this one game. Even though he worked at the Web site for 11 years, he was still an at-will employee. He can be fired at-will for just about anything. I’m sure he signed a contract saying such when he was hired. Sure, he can sue for wrongful termination, but he won’t win. And yes, people will say it’s the principal behind his firing that is the problem. Well, what’s wrong with someone getting fired because of advertiser and publisher pressure? It may not sound fair, but it is. The

bottom line is all publishers and advertisers care about. Why would a publisher want to spend hundreds of thousands of dollars on a venue that trashes its work? If I was a publisher, I wouldn’t buy advertising space on a Web site that rated my products horribly. It’s common sense. Only an idealist would see it otherwise. The one thing I really like about this entire situation is the hypocrisy of most of the people involved. When Gerstmann gave “The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess” an 8.8 out of 10.0, people went completely crazy. The “Twilight Princess” board at Gamespot was completely f looded with topics that ranged from calling Gerstmann fat to threatening his life. Now, these people are coming to his aid? It’s a simple fact that most gamers are still immature. It’s to be expected, the gaming industry is no more than 30 to 40 years

old. You don’t see controversy over Roger Ebert rating a movie bad that would otherwise get good reviews. And you don’t see him getting fired over reviews either. The gaming industry needs to move past needing “professionals” to tell the masses what kind of game to buy and not to buy. When that happens, situations like this will be completely avoided. In the mean time, there’s not really anything anyone can do about it. Gerstmann was fired. That much is known. Neither Gamespot nor C|Net comment on jobs of their employees. So what more is there? Why are people grasping at straws over this? That’s all it amounts to. Many gamers just want to make this out to be something more than all it is. People get fired all the time. You don’t see news stories about Joe Don getting

Joshua Rouse fired from f lipping hamburgers at McDonalds. This entire thing ultimately amounts to people wanting to find controversy. And even if the tinfoil hats are right, it doesn’t change anything. Gerstmann wasn’t contractually obligated to his job. Therefore, he could be fired at any time for anything. It’s a fact of life that most people need to realize.

A&E

11 Winter season brings slew of book visions to big screen December 10, 2007

By Joshua Rouse Collegian Staff Do you remember those things called “books” that people used to read before the advent of the Internet? Hollywood does. In what is traditionally the season for award-winning movies, holdovers from the summer blockbusters are taking a stand. However, unlike this past summer, which was riddled with sequels, the Christmas movie season is going a different route: book adaptations. Adapting a book is nothing new to Hollywood. Some of the biggest movies in the past two decades were adaptations of books, like “Jurassic Park,” “Lord of the Rings” and “Forrest Gump.” This year, a few lesser-known books are getting their turn at the silver screen. Stephen King, the king of horror, was finally able to get his good friend and director, Frank Darabont, who is best known for adaptations of King’s stories, ”The Green Mile” and “The Shawhshank Redemption,” to take on one of the all-time classic horror stories—“The Mist.” Unlike many horror movies that pit a group of sex-crazed teens against an unbelievable man in a bad-looking costume, “The Mist” follows a handful of people of all demographics as they try to cope with an unnatural mist that covers a town. In that mist, there are strange creatures that attack

any human that ventures their way. As the hours begin to wear on, a division forms between the people. Some believe the mist is a sign from God demanding a human sacrifice. The other group wants to find a way out. Darabont crafts a great narrative complete with a powerful performance from Thomas Jane. It doesn’t have the star power that Darabont’s previous adaptations have, but it has just as much power. The ending absolutely shouldn’t be missed. One of the oldest written tales of all-time hits the big screen for the first time in an authentic form. Ray Winstone stars as the famous Gaet Beowulf, who’s called by King Hrothgar to a far land to rid it of the evil Grendel. Featuring an updated motion capture technology that was used in “Polar Express,” “Beowulf ” creates a vivid world that still manages to capture the feel of the original poem. While the movie is changed somewhat from the poem, it’s actually for the better. Everything f lows more smoothly with the changes and gives meaning to events as they progress. Will Smith, who’s no stranger to blockbuster movie fans, will once again take up his automatic weapon and stand guard. This time, instead of fighting against aliens in 15-mile-wide space ships or dangerous robots, Smith will

take on something more deadly: humanity. He stars as Robert Neville in the latest adaptation of the classic horror book “I Am Legend,” which opens on Dec. 14. In the book, a deadly plague kills most of the world’s population. Those that remain alive are turned into mindless vampires. Neville, the last normal man alive, spends his nights fending off the vampire attacks and his days trying to find a cure. In this latest adaptation, the survivors aren’t vampires; they’re some kind of nocturnal creature. The plot is still the same as Neville tries to find a cure and hopes there are other survivors around the world. But, as the story progresses, he becomes a legend to the world. The granddaddy of all adaptations hits theaters a week earlier. “The Golden Compass,” which was originally promoted as a studio successor to “Lord of the Rings,” features an all-star cast, including Daniel Craig, Nicole Kidman, Eva Green and Sam Elliot. A wicked witch of sorts, though she doesn’t have a black hat or a green face, is kidnapping children and using them for experiments. A young girl, played by newcomer Dakota Blue Richards, must travel to the far reaches of the Earth to save her friend and the other children. While the movie might sound like some kids’ fairy tale, the Alist of actors and a PG-13 rating

points to the contrary. New Line Cinema hopes this will be the next successful franchise adaptation for the studio and has the remaining two movies in the trilogy pending. All four movies have the

potential to entertain audiences throughout the cold days as we count down toward Christmas. It does make you wonder where the original ideas in Hollywood are going.

Christmas Shopper’s Trivia It’s the most wonderful time of the year. True for many of us, and very true for most retailers. With the holiday season upon us, how much do you know about gift giving ... or really, gift buying? 1. What percentage of people began their holiday shopping BEFORE Halloween last year?

MCT Campus

A presidential tree: First lady Laura Bush receives the 2007 White House Christmas Tree on Nov. 26, 2007 at the North Portico of the White House in Washington.

White House gets its Christmas tree By Barbara Barrett MCT Campus It took Joe Freeman 15 minutes and two chain saws to fell the big Fraser fir that grew on his Ashe County, N.C., farm for nearly two decades. He planted the fir 19 years ago, before he even owned the land on which it grew. Freeman, 45, will admit that wielding his saw Friday felt a bit sentimental. But then came Monday, Nov. 26 when Freeman basked for hours in the glory of having the Fraser welcomed to the White House on Monday morning by first lady Laura Bush. “We had a big time,” Freeman said later in the day. Back in August, Freeman cut down a white pine on Mistletoe Meadows Christmas Tree Farm in Laurel Springs, N.C., and saw it selected as the Grand Champion Christmas tree by the National Christmas Tree Association. Two months later, White House staffers came to his farm to choose the official Christmas tree _ one of the honors of winning the grand championship back in the summer. The official welcome Monday was brief. At 10:17 a.m., a pair of horses

clip-clopped 50 yards up the White House’s northern driveway, tugging a wooden cart with the 20-foot Christmas tree lying on its side. A Marine band played a few bars of “O Christmas Tree.” The first lady strode out into a spattering of rain, smiled at the three dozen members of the press corralled behind a rope and praised the tree bundled behind her. She thanked Freeman and his wife, Linda Jones, and a representative from the tree association. Then she and the couple walked back in the White House. There, away from the press glare, they sipped hot cider and ate cookies and talked about the Christmas tree business. After a lunch and private tour with the first lady, Freeman stuck around to watch his tree raised. Workers wrestled it off the cart, through two sets of doors and into the White House Blue Room _ where it didn’t fit. Workers cut two feet off the bottom, so that the tree’s top just brushed the ceiling. “It’s a perfect fit,” Freeman said. “I knew it was a big tree, but just like all Christmas trees when you bring `em inside the house, it looks larger.”

A. 10 percent B. 20 percent C. 30 percent D. 40 percent 2. What percentage of people had COMPLETELY finished their shopping 10 days before Christmas last year? A. 10 percent B. 20 percent C. 30 percent D. 40 percent 3. What was the average dollar amount of GIFT CARDS purchased last year? A. $20 B. $30 C. $40 D. $50 4. How much did the average person spend on THEMSELVES last year? A. $22 B. $44 C. $77 D. $99 5. How many millions of people purchased gifts online FROM WORK last year? A. 21 B. 41 C. 61 D. 91 ANSWERS: 1. D 2. A 3. C 4. D 5. C Source: National Retail Federation ___ (c) 2007, McClatchy-Tribune Information Services. MCT Campus

A&E

12

December 10, 2007

Drugs, guns, money:

‘Gangster’ flick portrays true American crimes By Chris Allison Newswriting Student Crime movies seem to arrive on the silver screen about as often as every two weeks. It takes a really unique and entertaining approach to this genre for a crime fi lm to stand out and while “American Gangster” does not revolutionize the genre, it still manages to stand out in the crowd. Directed by “Alien” and “Gladiator” fi lmmaker Ridley Scott, “American Gangster” tells the real-life story of Frank Lucas who was considered one of the most notorious gangsters in American history. The fi lm chronicles Lucas’ life in the 1970s from his sudden rise to the top of the New York drug underworld to his eventual arrest. Denzel Washington gives a domineering and ferocious performance as Frank Lucas, whose life changes when his mob boss dies unexpectedly. After his mentor’s death, Lucas finds out his boss was really under the control of the Italian Mafia and the heroin sold by his boss’s organization is produced from scraps left over after being remanufactured by corrupt police and the Mafia. Upon hearing of the growing drug problem in Vietnam and in parts of Southeast Asia, Lucas fl ies personally to Bangkok and buys directly from the source where the heroin is pure. Lucas smuggles the heroin into the U.S. inside the coffins of dead soldiers and sells

the drugs at a cheap price to the citizens of Harlem. Before long, he manages to trump the competition and gain power over the Italian Mafia. Meanwhile in New Jersey, Detective Richie Roberts, played by Russell Crowe, finds himself ostracized from his peers at his precinct for turning in one million dollars in drug money he found in the trunk of a parked car. Roberts is also in the middle of a custody battle with his ex-wife over his son. She was fed up with Roberts’ constant womanizing. Because Roberts is one of the few honest cops left, he is offered to head a new drug task force that handles the big suppliers and traffickers. Roberts juggles his messy life, law school and investigating a new heroin product that has hit the streets. While Roberts’ home life is a wreck, Lucas’s family is the opposite. Lucas buys a house in New York for his timid old mother played by Ruby Dee, and offers his siblings, cousins and his nephew jobs in his drug organization. Lucas marries a young Puerto Rican woman, is deeply close to his family and values honesty and integrity. But at the same time, Lucas shows his sociopathic nature and brutality. The very first scene of the fi lm shows him mercilessly killing a man. Another scene shows Lucas’s hypocritical nature. After giving his brothers a tour of the manufacturing done in the projects, Lucas says to his

MCT Campus

Face to face: Denzel Washington, left, and Russell Crowe team up in “American Gangster.” Washington plays Frank Lucas, whose life changes when his mob boss dies unexpectedly.

brothers in a diner that “the most important thing in life is honesty and integrity.” After this speech, he gets up, walks down the street and shoots a man (who owed him money) in front of a crowd. Lucas then walks back to the diner, sits down and continues his conversation. Eventually, Lucas’ empire falls when it starts to tear itself up from within and when the Vietnam War ends. Following a bloody shoot out in a police raid on his manufacturing plant, Lucas strikes a deal with Richie Roberts, who prosecuted him after passing the bar exam. Lucas agrees to be an informant against the corruption in the New York Police For birthdays this week: You’ll get to the heart of the matter this Department and the Drug year. Your inquiries may lead to confusion initially, but keep asking the tough questions. You will break through.

Weekly Horoscopes

To get the advantage, check the week’s rating: 10 is the easiest week, 0 the most challenging.

Aries (March 21-April 19) This week is a 7. When you’re drawing up your fantasy plans, don’t worry about the cost. You can always make adaptations later, at the reality part. This could even motivate you to increase your income. Taurus (April 20-May 20) This week is a 7. You can love somebody very much and not agree on everything. Don’t let your partner’s disapproval squelch a good idea. Acknowledge it, but don’t give up. Gemini (May 21-June 21) This week is a 7. You’ve got more energy now, although some seems to be of the nervous kind. Don’t worry, you’ll do an excellent job. Have confidence in your skills. Cancer (June 22-July 22) This week is a 7. It’s easier to get your messages across with your actions, not words. Don’t gamble or make promises now, odds are not good for success with risks. Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) This week is a 7. You know, when you think about it, home and family are your best environment. Hide from the crowds and the paparazzi. Soak up the true love. Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) This week is a 6. Look out for things that are likely to break or turn out other than expected. Guard against errors early, and save yourself lots of grief. Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) This week is a 7. You don’t have to let everybody in on your little secret. It’s actually better if you don’t show uncompleted work. Give yourself space to make changes, after you see what you’ve done. Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) This week is an 8. You may have to tell a roommate or family member that you can’t go along with a crazy scheme. To help soften the blow, help this person find something that works. Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) This week is a 7. Caution is advised. Don’t make assumptions. Something new you try won’t work. Stick with the familiar as much as possible. Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) This week is a 7. There are a couple of things you’ve been meaning to say. Skip the sentimental speech, it isn’t your style anyway. A simple “thank you” will suffice, since you really mean it. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) This week is a 7. You’re being forced to show that your ideas have real substance. Prove you’re not a hopeless romantic by providing facts. The controversy will make you stronger. Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) This week is a 7 Increase your area of influence, without really going there. This can be done with phone calls.

Enforcement Agency. The performances are strong. Russell Crowe manages to hold up against Washington’s towering performance, even though he and Washington’s performances were not the best in their career. “American Gangster” is fi lled with great supporting performances as well. Josh Brolin is wonderfully menacing as a corrupt New York police officer. Even Armand Assante gives a brief but effective performance as the head of the Italian Mafia, who reluctantly has to accept the fact that a black man now runs the New York underworld. Ruby Dee is quiet and overwhelmed through most of the movie, but when Lucas is about to

fall, she surprises us with one of those one-scene monologues that the Academy Awards is famous for recognizing. The highlight of the fi lm is Washington, who will probably receive another Oscar nomination. The only problem with his performance is that we do not fully know who Frank Lucas is as a person. This is probably due to the fi lm’s fast-paced running time. Even though it is over two and a half hours long, the fi lm never slows down. One minute Lucas is a former chauffeur and the next he is a kingpin. Still, if you can get past the running time and violence, you can enjoy a great movie that has elements of “Scarface,” “Goodfellas” and “The Godfather.”

December 10, 2007

Sports

13

Photos and photo collage by Kareem Guiste and David R. Bublitz

Sports

14

December 10, 2007

Photo by Kareem Guiste

Walking on: (left to right) Tiffany Williams, Krisit Taylor, Evelyn Taylor, Keindra Scott and Megan Atkins walk on the court for the last time of Saturday night’s game at the Cameron University/Powerade Classic tournament at the Aggie Gymnasium. The Aggies fell just four points short of holding on to their first victory at the Aggie Gymnasium this

Lady Aggies fall short on victory By Kareem Guiste Collegian Staff After a much-needed win against the Missouri Western State at the Emporia State Classic tournament in Kansas, the Cameron lady Aggies failed on two occasions to keep the momentum going at home. With the stage set for the first home game at the Aggie Gymnasium, the crowd was more than cheerful to welcome home the ladies from their first two season games on the road. Even the “Black Friday” deals couldn’t keep the fans away: the Aggie gym was nearly fi lled. CU played host to The Cameron University/Powerade Thanksgiving Classic women’s basketball tournament on Friday, Nov. 23 and Saturday, Nov. 24. The Aggie women’s team lost both of their games, first to the

third nationally-ranked team, Emporia State on Friday night (80-60), then a nail-biting loss to Henderson State on Saturday night (54-52). Despite the two losses, the girls put up a good fight on both nights at the weekend tournament, but not without a few glitches. With senior guard Tiffany Williams not showing her full potential on court yet this season, the promise of a past season shooting star’s return lingers in the hearts and minds of the Aggie faithful. In contrast, there were good spots to pick on. Junior guard Jasmine Parr pushed forth with the optimism of a leader yet to unfold. With 72 minutes of total playing time during the weekend’s tournament, Parr’s figures don’t give a clear picture of her potential within. With 25 points to share almost evenly between the two games, Parr felt that

there was more of an issue on the defensive end of the court rather than offensive, which limited CU’s chances for the win at the Saturday night’s game. “Basically, our defense was not going the way it should have been,” she said. “We were lacking on that for the whole game. We did at times lack on offense, but it is not always about the offense, we just simply lacked the defensive aspect of our game and that was the main issue.” As Parr looks ahead at the schedule, which Coach Kevin Hackerott considers to be a difficult one, she said that the team needs to focus on what’s ahead, try to better the mistakes, put the losses behind and move on to get the work done. “We basically have to compete better from now on and compete harder and go at it,” Parr said. “We have to pick it up, go harder in practices and get it right.” Coach Hackerott’s comments about Saturday night’s game did not contrast with Parr’s testaments. “We did not play very well and Henderson State was the big reason why,” he said. “They (Henderson State) played well, they were really a hard match up for us with the players they had on court.” Ultimately, Coach Hackerott said that there were several places

where the Aggie squad failed on the court and that cost them the game. “The reality is there were tons of places where we lost the game,” he said. “The dribble penetration just killed us, and the game got away from us defensively as well.” Keindra Scott, who had a massive showing on the court with 20 points, five rebounds and one assist from a sturdy 35 minutes of play, proved defi ance. Coach Hackerott commented on Friday night’s game and Scott’s impressive play. “Keindra stepped up offensively for us and that was good and Kristi did a good job on court. I thought we played hard, but we stuck on 50 and could not make a shot,” Coach Hackerott said. “We missed a few too many free throws, and these are very important, but effort wise, rebounding wise we had enough energy, but we just could not sink it in.” With love for her new team and a feeling that the Cameron Aggies have yet to unfold its trump card, Scott sees the Lady Aggies putting up a good fight to the end. “ I think we played strong on

Friday” Scott said. “We have a great team, and there is a lot of support for each of us here. As Scott looks head she feels that with a better bucket percentage CU should do well as the schedule unfolds. “We just need to put down more shots that are what wins games” Scott said. “What we need to do now is come together and played stronger with more of the intensity we showed here get us some wins.” Coach Hackerott feels that the team has gotten better and sees the team as a stronger contender in the conference for the balance of the season. “We have gotten a lot better, and are playing a very tough schedule” Coach Hackerrot said. “Considering who we have played we have a chance in our conference to do fi ne.” As the first half of home season’s coverage comes to a close for the Cameron Collegian sports, the Lady Aggies and the Men’s team will come home for the fi nal time before the Christmas break. Th is time all eyes shoould be on both squads which have not shown their full potential or if any on the court this season. For more information on CU Aggies Basketball go to www. goaggies.cameron.edu.

Sports

December 10, 2007

15

Cameron tennis holds at No. 1

Photo by Kareem Guiste

Back on top: Cameron University’s Ignacio Murgier showcases just a fraction of his talent for the 2008 spring season at the Aggie’s Tennis Complex. The Men’s and Women’s teams go into the spring season very confident with high rankings in the region.

By Craig Martin Director of Sports Information Although the Spring 2008 tennis season hasn’t officially started, the Aggie men’s and women’s tennis teams are already red hot. In the Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) Fall national rankings recently released, the Aggie men’s

team is ranked No. 12 in the nation while the women are ranked No. 27. The ITA rankings are submitted and compiled by select committees of collegiate coaches. The rankings feature the top 200 NCAA Division-II tennis programs in the nation. Cameron’s men’s team is also ranked No. 1 in the region, while the women’s team is ranked No. 6.

“I am very excited,” Head Coach James Helvey said. “It’s fun to be recognized by other coaches around the country; they feel we deserve this. I feel like we have certainly earned the rankings, but it’s definitely no place to get comfortable.” The men’s No. 12 ranking is the highest men’s ranking in Cameron Tennis history. The previous high

have their own team: The Greatest Team Ever. It is a great time for everyone, and it is a good way for people to get involved on campus while having fun and getting in shape. There is a little friendly competition, but it keeps the games alive. “It is fun for everyone, we haven’t encountered any problems,” said Mayfield. “Soccer has been awesome,” said Mayfield. Soccer is becoming more popular at Cameron, this year there are five teams. “Many of the International students here really enjoy playing soccer, almost all of the teams are made of International students”, said Mayfield. “It really gives the students here an opportunity to meet new people that they may have not otherwise came into contact with.” There were more women participating in soccer this year as well. The spring semester is a busy time for Intramurals as well. After the Holiday break, there will be a bowling tournament

held. Volleyball also begins in the spring, as well as 3 on 3 and 5 on 5 basketball. “One sport that has really taken off in the past couple of years is golf,” said Mayfield. “The participation and the tournament went real well last year, and we are hoping for the same turnout, even more participants for this years tourney.” The golf tournament is usually held towards the end of April, when the weather begins to warm up again. All dates for the spring events are To Be Announced. Mayfield believes that one of the reasons that the participation in Intramurals has become so popular is because they try to give the players some incentive to win and take part in some friendly competition. This year Mayfield introduced awards such as “Intramural Team of the Month” and the “Cameron Cup” for motivation for success, but the object of the games are for fun.

ranking was No. 13 from the Fall 1994 season. Last season the men made it up to No. 15 during the season but ended the season ranked No. 22. The women’s team finished last year ranked No. 37, but the team was as high as No. 14 during the season. “It’s extremely tough to get this high because all the teams are very

strong,” Coach Helvey said. “The top 25 is brutal, and I think now more than ever it is the toughest I have seen in my 18 years of coaching. These top 25 teams on any given day could go any direction.” The Cameron Aggie tennis teams also have a number of players ranked individually. Junior Daniel Pazos is the highest ranked Aggie coming in at No. 46 overall in the national singles rankings. Senior Jordi Mullor is CU’s other ranked singles player at No. 50 overall. CU’s doubles team of Pazos and junior Cristian Easton is the No. 19 duo in the nation. Pazos, Mullor, and Easton are all ranked in singles regionally at No. 4, No. 5, and No. 9, respectively. Joining them in the regional rankings are seniors Ignacio Murgier, No. 6, and Nicolas Mascheroni, No. 11. The doubles team of Pazos and Easton is ranked No. 3 in the region, while the duo of Mascheroni and Murgier is ranked No. 6 in the region. The doubles team of Mullor and junior Saman Samii is ranked No. 10 in the region. On the women’s side, the lone Aggie ranked nationally is junior Irene George who is the No. 33 ranked singles player. She is also ranked No. 4 in the region. In doubles, George and her partner, senior Megan deBlonk, are the No. 8 ranked doubles team in the region followed by the duo of juniors Sophia Rich and Viviana Seca at No. 10. “We are just getting better and stronger and deeper,” Coach Helvey said. “I really believe it is a state of mind to get your kids to believe that they belong there (in the rankings). That is something that has been new for them. Our kids have been that good, it’s just been getting them to believe that they deserve to be there and that they are as good as the other teams.” The Aggie tennis teams are currently in the offseason portion of their 2007-2008 schedule, but resume competitive play on February 14. The teams begin the season by traveling south to the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex to take on the University of Texas-Arlington, Collin County College, Dallas Baptist University, and Tyler Junior College in the span of three days. “We are in a little down time with the holiday break coming up, but when school gets started we will get after it again,” Coach Helvey said. “From a coaches point of view this (ranking) is just some ink on a piece of paper. The only one that really counts is the final ranking in May. Now it’s time to start defending it.”

Intramurals ends with success By Kerry Shanks Collegian Staff Have you ever wanted to be on a team or participate in sports but didn’t know how to get started? There is an array of choices of sports available with the Cameron Intramural teams. Cameron’s Intramural sports has something for everyone, ranging from bowling to basketball to flag football. Flag football is the most popular sport to participate in this year, according to Mo Mayfield, Intramural Sports Director. Participation has more than doubled compared to last year. “Participation has been excellent,” said Mayfield. “Last year there were eight teams, this year there were 18.” Many students are getting together and forming their own teams. There are teams called “The Has-Beens” that is made up of a group of former baseball players, and the Cameron Coaches even

Photo by Kareem Guiste

Quarterback stance: Members of the coed flag football team get ready for the kick-off. The Intramural Program will continue in the spring with volleyball and 3-on-3 and 5-on-5 basketball.

16

Variety

December 10, 2007

A CaMeron Christmas Festival Cameron University is celebrating Christmas this year with the annual lighting of the tree in the McMahon Center. This is the second year of the celebration, which appeals to both Cameron students and the surrounding community. On Nov. 29, students and their families were able to enjoy seasonal foods, carriage rides and decorating Christmas cookies. The Cameron Choir sang Christmas carols and entertained those who attended. Students at the Duncan campus also enjoyed their lighting of the Christmas tree on Nov. 27. Ole Kim attended both events and took pictures with students.

Kenzie Claunch Behavior Science Graduate “We make homemade sugar cookies on Christmas Eve.”

Jeewan Raj Bhattara Physics Freshman “We don’t celebrate Christmas in Nepal, but we try to enjoy Chritmas here.”

Mary Adkinson History Sophomore “We always have a huge family dinner.”

Clint Williams Music Senior “I spend time with my family and loved ones. And also, I try to catch up with the football games that I can.” Laura Hildalgo Marketing Senior “We celebrate on the 24th and that’s when we do the big dinner. All the family dances.”

Levi Pettijohn Physics Sophomore “We crack open a glass of sparkling grape juice and we watch the ball drop in New York City.”

Photos by Bira Vidal Photos courtesy of Community Relations Photo Collage by Bira Vidal