The Cameron University Collegian: February 8, 2010

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

Informing the Cameron Family Since 1926

Monday, February 8, 2010

News

Volume 84 Issue 13

Ice storm descends on campus

By Joshua Rouse and Jim Horinek Collegian Staff

CU hosts quit smoking program.

SEE PAGE 4

A&E

The recent ice storm left a big chill at Cameron University after the Shepler Tower dorms lost power.

At the peak of power loss in Lawton, Public Service Company of Oklahoma estimates show more than 40,000 people were without power. While the Shepler Towers and other parts of the campus lost power, electricity remained on at the Cameron Village. That was not much consolation to the students riding out winter’s wrath on campus.

“I left Thursday afternoon around 3 p.m. when I noticed it was getting bad,” said Physics junior Levi Pettijohn. “I know they were running on generators at the dorms to keep some power there.”

Pettijohn tried to ride the storm out at his home in Marlow. However, one of the main power lines feeding electricity to Marlow, along with several miles of poles, was snapped in the storm’s wake. Marlow is still without power.

“They said it should be [today],” Pettijohn said.

“But we don’t know for sure.”

The physics Junior stayed at his Marlow home as long as he could. Pettijohn said his family uses a well for their water supply at home, but it doesn’t work without electricity.

See ICE Page 10

Photo by Jim Horinek

Polar Garden: The newly opened Bentley Gardens was nearly entirely covered in a coating of ice. The extreme weather that brought the ice also caused many problems for students living on campus.

Aggies look to rebuild after contentious game

By Bennett Dewan Collegian Staff The Cameron University Men’s Basketball team has endured some struggles this season, including two straight heart-breaking losses at home by a combined five points, but the latest speed bump has left the Aggies with a significantly depleted roster.

Head Coach Wade Alexander knows that although he has less of a bench to turn to that his players have not conceded this season as a “lost cause” by any stretch of the imagination.

“The seven guys in the locker room, they’re not giving up. They are still ready to go out there and play hard and give it all they’ve got,” Alexander said.

The team will be shorthanded due to the suspensions of five players for the remainder of the season stemming from a fight that occurred at the conclusion of the contest against the Southeastern Savage Storm. The score remained close throughout the game, and the play was markedly

2010 Homecoming: Cruise on Home SEE PAGE 9

Sports

physical as there were 30 personal fouls to go along with two technical fouls called during regulation.

The possiblity of a sporting event altercation was not news to Alexander even before the Southeastern game.

“Fights happen in basketball games sometimes, unfortunately. Emotions run high when people win and lose, and someone is really happy while someone else is upset. The wrong words are exchanged and incidences can happen,” Alexander said.

“While [fighting] is a big deal, it is a common deal in sports, but it won’t be common with us.”

Only a short while removed from the game and subsequent fight, Alexander announced his decision to suspend four players for the rest of the season and two for two games apiece. Upon further review of tape of the altercation, Alexander decided to increase one of the two-game suspensions to a season-long respite from basketball.

See GAME Page 2

Cameron adjusts to more budget cuts

By Justin Cliburn Collegian Staff

Athletic Department funding remains steady in tough economy.

SEE PAGE 7

Voices

Military considers repealing “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.”

SEE PAGE 5

Cameron University’s operating budget was the focus of President Cindy Ross’ Jan. 25 address to the Student Government Association (SGA). With Vice Presidents Dr. John McArthur and Glen Pinkston present to help answer SGA’s questions, President Ross outlined how CU plans to balance its operating budget during an extended period of budget cuts. CU experienced significant cuts in fiscal year 2010’s operating budget and expects even more cuts in fiscal year 2011’s operating budget, President Ross said. The fiscal year runs from July 1 – June 30 of the following year.

“For fiscal year 2010, we are expecting an overall operating budget cut of 7.5 percent,” President Ross said, “ . . . and a 13 percent cut for fiscal year 2011.”

The university’s operating budget is what sustains the day-to-day operations of the faculty, staff, equipment and facilities and is different from capital improvements. While there appears to be money available with the construction of new buildings and gardens on campus, the budget that

those funds are drawn from is separate from what runs the university on a daily basis, President Ross said.

“I received an email from a student saying that, if we had not built Bentley Gardens, we would have plenty of money,” President Ross said. “But, donors donate that money for specific purposes, and we cannot divert it to the operating budget.”

The combined state shortfall for fiscal years 2010 and 2011 totals over $1.6 billion, and, between the state’s Rainy Day Fund and federal stimulus funds, there is only $833 million in available revenue to address the budget crunch. Cameron’s share of the fiscal year 2010 shortfall is an estimated $1.6 million, but, because of the growth CU has experienced over the past two semesters, the school will end the fiscal year with a balance of $450,000, according to projections based on how much revenue additional credit hours will bring

the university.

“There has been a 13 percent increase in headcount and, more importantly, a 14 percent increase in credit hours,” President Ross said.

“This will bring in $1.7 million in additional funds to the operating budget.”

Carrying a $450,000 balance into fiscal year 2011 is uncommon for universities across the state, but the coming year still presents many challenges for Cameron administrators. Schools such as the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma (USAO) have had to take costsaving measures that Cameron has thus far been able to avoid.

“USAO in Chickasha has had to cut faculty

pay and impose furloughs,” President Ross said. “But, thanks to the enormous growth we’ve experienced, Cameron hasn’t had to do those things.”

With a projected budget reduction of $2.6 million in fiscal year 2011, the total revenue lost for Cameron in two years is estimated to be over $4.3 million. In order to alleviate the stress that will put on the budget, the university has identified a number of cost-saving initiatives it plans on implementing in the near future, President Ross said.

Among them is a proposal to close some campus buildings during the summer months.

See BUDGET Page 2

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News

February 8, 2010

GAME continued from page 1 Alexander choosing to extol punishments in house, rather than waiting for an NCAA suspension, caught the attention of Lone Star Conference Commissioner Stan Wagnon.

“I am pleased with how the administrations of Cameron and Southeastern Oklahoma have handled the incident,” Wagnon said

in the LSC press release, “[they] have held themselves accountable and sent clear messages that these actions are not acceptable at these fine institutions.”

Southeastern Oklahoma suspended five players in total with the most severe penalty being for six of the remaining eight games of the season.

Alexander, and the Cameron Athletic Department, have always stressed that being a student-athlete is as much about character as it is about game-time excellence.

“With our team, we are going to [discipline] those people that do the wrong thing every time; whether it’s a fight, whether it’s in class or in the community, it doesn’t matter.

We are going to take care of it,” Alexander said.

The two teams will meet again Feb. 17, but this time the contest will be played in Durant.

Alexander is adamant that there will be no repeat of the altercation that took place following the first game and that the team has put the event behind them.

With the fair distribution of disciplinary action, the Aggies faced the reality of playing without five players.

Alexander, who understood that the suspensions might hamper his team’s output, chose to send a message with his disciplinary

actions.

Alexander has shaken up his lineup and is giving significant playing time to a core group of young players.

Youth and inexperience will not be a label Alexander’s Aggies will hide behind this season.

“Everybody is playing hard, and that is the key. It doesn’t Photo by Bennett Dewan matter what you Air Aggie: Senior Guard/Forward Kallan do, as long as Glasgow goes up for a one-handed bank-shot you play hard. against the SWOSU Bulldogs. The team depends The Freshmen on Glasgow’s leadership both on the court and need to step up, but that doesn’t off. mean that they need to start scoring leadership of defensive stalwart 27 points per game. They just need Senior Kallan Glasgow. Alexander to hit a shot when they are open, if recognizes the intangibles that they’re not, they need to move that Glasgow brings to the team in his ball, and they need to play tough ability to erase mistakes through defense,” Alexander said. “They’re hard play. trying to learn, they’re trying to do “Kallan does a lot of good what’s right, trying to run the plays, things. He drives me crazy at times, trying to execute.” but, as soon as he does something While some of the players bad, he makes up for it. Scoring coming off the bench had limited isn’t always how you make up for a roles before the suspensions, mistake; it’s getting a rebound, or Alexander is confident that the playing good defense or not turning system he has developed can help the ball over. And Kallan can do all his players find success on the of this,” Alexander said. court.

Glasgow’s leadership and tough“Some of the guys we have nosed style fits perfectly into the playing right now are not quite as style of play Cameron will have to quick, not quite as athletic, not utilize to win games in the LSC. quite as big as the guys we have While the Aggies may not possess been playing,” Alexander said, “but, a lot of size on their current roster, when they listen and do what they Alexander is counting on his team’s know they’re speed, discipline and hustle to cause supposed to, we matchup problems. can hang with “That [SWOSU game] was our anybody.” best game of the year. So often, While people want to judge that on wins many squads and losses. We had seven guys out equate youth there just fighting their guts out, with being playing as hard as they could play, an unreliable playing together, and executing and detriment to doing everything they could even a team, the though they couldn’t hold on and Aggies have win the game.” been rewarded With the learning curve by the everremaining very steep for the evolving play of Aggies young players, as the LSC their reserves. schedule is well underway, the While the student-athletes have responded by squad has a playing stout defense throughout slew of new games even while certain players Freshman are logging nearly 40 minutes per role players matchup. like emerging While the Aggies have not been starter Bryce able to ascertain their first win since Geiger the suspensions were handed down and Niko (as of time of publication) the team Vukadinovic, seems to have all the tools in place the team to get back in the win column. looks to the

BUDGET continued from page 1

Solutions on page 4.

“Only 20 percent of classrooms are used during the summer semester,” Dr. McArthur said. “So, we are considering closing Conwill Hall, the old Student Union and Haggar Hall [to save money on utilities].”

CU will reduce or eliminate non-essential facility improvements and maintenance, as well as discretionary school funds and the travel budgets for faculty. Select vacant faculty positions will be eliminated and vendor contracts will be reviewed. Another $500,000 is projected to result from increased special fees that will apply to private music lessons, art courses, science labs, tutorial labs and a once-asemester $25 wellness fee.

A proposal to increase class sizes is also on the table, which could lead to classes being offered less often. President Ross conceded that classes might be offered fewer times but maintained that the students’ academic progress will still be key.

“There may be less offerings, but the process will be selective. We will make sure that a student can complete all of their required major courses in a four-year period,” President Ross said. “It will not delay graduation.”

The “CU $aves” program, announced on Nov. 9 in an effort to ask the CU community for money-saving ideas, generated over 200 responses, President Ross said. A number of the ideas will be implemented, including doublesided printing on university copiers and selling paper waste to Republic Paperboard Co.

February 8, 2010

News

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News

February 8, 2010

CU hosts ‘Freedom from Smoking’ program

By Rashmi Thapaliya Collegian Staff Quitting the habit of smoking is not so easy.

Many smokers are well aware that it is not healthy, but they cannot quit because of their addiction.

Cameron University is prepared to help students, faculty and staff members quit the habit if they seek assistance.

Cameron’s Southwest Area Health Education Center (SWAHEC) is a conducting “Freedom From Smoking” program for those who want to stop smoking. The program will be held at 2:30 p.m. every Tuesday in the CETES building’s room 206 for seven weeks starting Jan. 26. The participants will receive free information, as well as a support system and replacement therapy services referrals.

Dr. Joe Langley, Director of SWAHEC, said that this is the first attempt of the university, and it is free.

MCT Campus

“The university administration motivated us to do the program,” he said.

“Probably in the not too distant future, Cameron will be a smoke-free campus.”

Dr. Langley said that if we want to make our campus a smoke-free zone, then we should start now. He said that they tried to schedule the program at a time when students will be on campus but not in class.

“We had some students

interested in the program who said that they were busy in their labs during the time we meet,” he said. “I hope that we will try to cover those students next time we offer the program.”

Dr. Langley said that “Freedom From Smoking” is one of the most successful programs of the American Lung Association. He said that it is hard to quit smoking, but it is not impossible to do so.

He talked about some of the strategies and behaviors they are planning to help people quit smoking.

Some of those strategies include substituting a cigarette with something like gum, an inhaler or medication.

Examples of smoking behaviors include: smoking with coffee, beer, in the car, after meals, after getting up and before going to bed, among others. Dr. Langley said that if we can help people separate these behaviors then it will be easier for them to quit smoking.

Four candidates have signed up for the program so far.

Charles Fatig, a grounds staff member at Cameron is one of the participants of the program.

He said that he was nine or ten years old when he started smoking, and he is 56 now.

“Six years ago, I found out that I have lost 30 percent of my lung capacity,” Fatig said. “I did quit smoking for two weeks once, but one of my co-workers encouraged me to start smoking again.”

Fatig said that it is very hard to quit when your co-workers are smoking in front of you.

He said that through programs like this, people who want to stop smoking will be able to cooperate with their co-workers to get rid of the habit. Fatig is hopeful that he will be able to quit smoking through this program. He said that he will try his best to be a non-smoker.

Billy Farris, a 53-yearold grounds staff member at Cameron, is another participant of the program and a colleague of Fatig.

He shared his experience of starting smoking at the age of 12.

“I have quit smoking several times for a month and a half but when I am under stress

I start smoking again,” Farris said. “I have never been in a program like this, and I hope that it will help me to quit smoking.”

Dr. Langley said that there are seven weeks and eight sessions in the program. The fourth week is the quit week.

On the quit day, they are conducting a follow-up after 48 hours.

Dr. Langley said that this program is a part of a “CU in Good Health” effort. He pointed out the fact that the state of health in Oklahoma is ranks well below other states.

There are less health care providers and more heart and other smoke related diseases in Oklahoma than many other states.

“We are supporting the State Department of Health Department slogan ‘eat less, move more, be tobacco free’,” Dr. Langley said.

For more information go to South Shepler room 409 or e-mail ahec@ cameron. edu.

MCT Campus

Chemistry Club offers outlet for scientifically inclined

Photo by Jim Horinek

By Rashmi Thapaliya Collegian Staff Chemistry Club is an active student organization at Cameron University and acts as a small chapter of the National American Chemical Society (ACS).

Tajriat Ahmed, a junior Chemistry major, is the president of Chemistry Club and said that the main objective of the club is to create an environment for science students to interact with their classmates and professors.

“The students may not get the

chance to know their classmates in class,” Ahmed said. “But during the club activities, the students will have more time to know each other and make friends and also build a personal relationship with professors.”

Chemistry club is limited to just chemistry majors but is

open to all students who want to learn more about the field or just be part of the club. There are 25-30 members in the club, which holds general meetings twice a month at 5 p.m. on Wednesdays.

Ahmed said that ACS had at least two of their regional local meetings at Cameron last semester with students participating. She said, that during those meetings, students got an opportunity to hear professors talk about their research as well as other research opportunities.

The Chemistry Club, in association with the Biology Club, held a welcome back picnic for students at the beginning of the spring semester. Ahmed said the club will hold more events this semester, including a day show for elementary students where students will participate in chemistry-related activities as a learning experience. Such activities will encourage the students to decide if they wish to take science in college, she said.

The club is also planning a service project in February for Black History Month. The club is bringing in an African American chemist who will share the story of how he became a chemist. Ahmed said that she hopes this will inspire minorities to achieve their goals.

She also said that Dr. Anne Nalley, Professor of Physical

Science and a former president of ACS, is planning to organize a forum for doctors. The forum will discuss how Cameron University has affected the health programs of Southwest Oklahoma.

Ahmed discussed some of the club’s events during the fall 2009 semester, including an open house event in October where students from local elementary and high schools participated.

“We had a skit for the students where we had characters like ‘chemical cow’ and also ‘proton,’ ‘neutron’ and ‘electron’ and how they work together,” Ahmed said. “The objective of the show was to help the students know more about science so that they can pick up science in college.”

Chemistry Club’s other large fall event was the ACS trip to El Paso, Texas. Ahmed said that the trip helped to build a good bond between students as they attended the conferences and learned about a career in chemistry.

The advisers of the club are Dr. Anne Nalley, Professor of Physical Science; and Dr. Gary Buckley, Professor of Physical Science “I like the job of president in the Chemistry club,” Ahmed said. “You learn how to multitask and how to bring multiple ideas into one.”

Voices

February 8, 2010

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CU makes student safety priority during inclement weather Cameron has a reputation of putting students at the forefront of its mission. This fact shows up in many aspects of campus. All students have the opportunity to experience this in the classroom on a daily basis. However, there is a small portion of the student body that experiences Cameron’s student-centered approach every time they enter their dorm or apartment. The nearly 500 students who are a part of the CU campus housing system are treated with care and respect as though they were staying with family.

This fact became very clear during the recent ice storm that shut down much of Lawton. Despite the fact that nearly all parts of Lawton were shut down and in many cases without power, the students who occupy CU’s campus housing were cared for as though they were at home. This care came from the dedicated staff members of several campus entities.

First of all, the members of the Student Housing staff and Food Services staff worked very hard to ensure that the students who live on campus were safe and comfortable during the inclement weather. This was no small task due to the problems that arose. The students in the Village found themselves to be lucky after only losing power for a few hours. However, the students who live in Shepler were not as fortunate. On Thursday, a major portion of the power supplying Shepler center was lost. But thanks to the planning of the Student Housing staff, the students were still able to maintain comfort and safety. This feat was accomplished thanks to the generators that were in place well before the ice descended on campus. With the help of the generators, the campus food services stayed operational and provided the students living on campus with hot meals. Further help was provided by way of the Fitness Center. Due to the loss of heating in the dorms, the Fitness Center, which was still fully powered and heated, was kept open 24/7 as a place for Shepler residents to go to escape the cold.

Yet another group of Cameron employees that rose to the occasion were select members of the Physical Facilities staff. These individuals were on call throughout the weekend to ensure that everything was done that could be done to help the students.

The effort and care that Cameron and its employees put forth to help students during the inclement weather is greatly appreciated. The students are lucky to attend a university where the health and safety of the student body is a main priority. Thank you to the entire campus staff that worked to ensure that goal.

Photos by Jim Horinek

Students first: In the midst of one of the worst winter storms in years, Cameron made the safety of students living on campus the first priority. To accomplish this, generators were brought in and the staff worked around the clock.

THE CAMERON UNIVERSITY

COLLEGIAN These are the views of the Collegian Newspaper Editorial Staff. For comments, e-mail collegian@cameron.edu

Founded in 1926 veritas sempiterna

Time has come to end ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ Imagine a medical patient is in need of a very highly specialized type of brain surgery, requiring the top surgeon in the field. Now, imagine that the top surgeon has been stripped of his or her practicing license because he or she is a homosexual. Insert disbelief.

Thankfully, in the civilian world, a person’s sexual orientation normally has no bearing on whether they are allowed to pursue a career; unfortunately, in the military, the dismissal and discharge of many homosexual troops under the Clintonsigned 1993 policy of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” is common, regardless of how valuable the individual might be.

Gay rights activists have been protesting the law since its inception, and after President Barack Obama’s State of the Union address on Jan. 27, it looks like they have a reason to hope for a repeal of the discriminatory law.

But hope, a word that has been somewhat overused in the last year and a half, will not carry the momentum for a repeal, as it will take an act of Congress

to overturn the policy, and their track record for getting controversial issues passed, even with a Democratic super majority, is less than stellar.

Unlike the health care bill, which is still an important topic, this is an issue that must be addressed sooner rather than later. The enforcement of this policy denies civil rights to specific people, which is a violation of the Constitution, and cannot be allowed to continue.

It will be an unpopular decision, but it’s time the President started making unpopular decisions for the good of the country.

President Harry Truman made an unpopular decision on July 26, 1948 when he issued an executive order for the integration of blacks and whites in the armed forces.

Things were a little testy for a few years, but the passage of time does wonders for the attitudes of the disgruntled.

Opponents of changing the policy have laid out a number of reasons why it would be detrimental to the morale of the troops to allow homosexuals to freely serve, all of which could hold up a final decision on the topic for years.

There are legitimate questions as to how things will change if the policy does get overturned,

Rachel Engel

Editorial Board Editor-in-Chief - Joshua Rouse News Editor - Jim Horinek A&E Editor - Rachel Engel Sports Editor - Bennett Dewan Copy Editor - Justin Cliburn Back Page Editor - Monica Garner Digital Editors - Kyle Luetters and Michael Faggett

Newsroom Staff Financial Officer - Susan Hill Staff Writers - Rashmi Thapaliya, Amanda Finch, Alyssa Knerr, Tori Strecker, Tatiana Isis and Amanda Phillips.

Circulation Manager - Matthew Penick

Faculty Adviser Dr. Christopher Keller

About Us

such as how to handle troops who have been married in states that permit same-sex marriages.

Will their spouse be eligible for dependent benefits, including health care and base housing?

And that one questions ushers in a whole new range of inquiries, namely that if the U.S. military acknowledges those same-sex marriages, shouldn’t same-sex marriage be recognized and accepted as a whole?

They are difficult questions, and need to be addressed, but also need to be answered.

They cannot be shoved aside, deemed “too hard,” and have the attempted policy change forgotten, like what has happened to the health care bill in recent days.

Truthfully, implying that the morale of the troops will decline if gays are allowed to serve the country openly is an insult to the armed forces. Soldiers have walked the streets of Baghdad, become accustomed to the Iraqi culture, been required to do multiple tours with no end in sight, and yet opponents feel that homosexual troops will be the straw that breaks the camel’s back and undermine their morale?

Will and Grace was on the air on NBC for eight years, starting in 1998, and if America can accept Jack McFarland into their living rooms each week, the military can accept the soldiers that are already fighting for our country and allow them to be themselves.

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.

Our student media are designated public forums, and free from censorship and advance approval of content. Because content and funding are unrelated, and because the role of adviser does not include advance review of content, student media are free to develop editorial policies and news coverage with the understanding that students and student organizations speak only for themselves. Administrators, faculty, staff or other agents shall not consider the student media’s content when making decisions regarding the media’s funding or faculty adviser.

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Sports

February 8, 2010

CU sees chemistry, maturity pay off

By Michael Faggett Collegian Staff The Cameron University women’s basketball team has endured it’s share of big tests this year.

The squad features 11 new players; seven of those 11 are Freshmen.

The women’s roster also suffered injuries across the board.

Guard CeCe Rundles and posts Kelsi West and Kelli Wyrick are out for the season.

Freshman post Sharna Hoosier is playing with a torn meniscus. Guard Josie Stewart is playing with a face mask due to an orbital bone fracture she suffered earlier in the season.

Post Jessica Priest missed games because of finger and knee injuries.

“We have had to adapt in style of play more than we have wanted to,” head coach Tom Webb said. “It has been hard for continuity and development.”

Despite enduring the setbacks, the team has not been consistent in doing the little things, taking care of the basketball, that result in wins.

The team averages over 20 turnovers per outing.

Webb looks for the team to change that trend as they head into the heart of the Lone Star Conference division schedule.

“Our next six games will be huge for us,” Webb said. “Once we get that first division win, then we will be fine.”

Playing with a limited roster and a lack of continuity in a

Photo by Bennett Dewan

All you can do is watch: Junior Guard Lyndie NeVille drives past a Southwestern Bulldog defender for a layup in the Aggie Gym. NeVille has stepped up her production for the Aggies as of late scoring 18 points and snagging three steals against the Southeastern Savage Storm. tough conference serves as a road block for the Aggies in winning consistently against conference opponents.

In a game against Texas Women’s University, the team committed 36 turnovers and lost by 19.

“We turned it over a ton,” Webb said referring to the game against Texas Women’s.

“We just did not take care of the basketball.”

In spite of the inconsistent play and losses, positives have

emerged for the team.

The aforementioned Stewart, a junior transfer from Wyoming, has been a consistent contributor for the Aggies this season.

Stewart leads the team in scoring (18.5 per game), rebounds (6.6), three point shooting (40 percent) and minutes played (33.2).

“Josie has been very consistent for us,” Webb said.

“We need her to produce, and it is a great way for her to learn

how to be a special player.”

Another player that has played well during the season is freshman guard Alexis Williams.

The San Antonio native averages 10 points per contest. She also averages four rebounds per game and shoots 39 percent from behind the arc.

“We are really excited about Alexis; her future is bright,” Webb said. “She’s very skilled and has a big upside.”

Guard Luv Rattler has

been an interesting player for the team. She leads the team in assists and steals, but Rattler also leads the team in turnovers.

“Playing the point guard position is stressful,” Webb said in reference to Rattler’s play. “She has done a good job, but we just need her to be more consistent and find her teammates.”

The team still has more than half of its division games to play, and Webb expects the team to develop game by game.

“This is really like our first year of a program,” Webb said.

“We brought in a lot of new faces, so it is really like our first year.”

Webb looks to build on the play of newcomers Stewart, Williams, Rattler and other contributors to finish this season strong.

The Aggies picked up a recent road win in Ada against Lone Star Conference foe East Central University.

CU had four scorers in double digits and outrebounded the Tigers by 10 on the night.

Rattler continued to mature at the guard position as she had 16 points while minimizing her turnovers and running the offensive set.

With the win the Aggies are just four games out of the final playoff spot in the LSC North Division which has the coaching staff feeling optimistic.

“Our future looks good, but we want to win now,” Webb said.

CU Tennis falls to tough Tulsa team

By Amanda Phillips Collegian Staff The Cameron women’s tennis team suffered a tough loss in the season opener against NCAA Division I University of Tulsa (TU). The women were defeated 7-0, but each match was hard-fought.

The all-freshmen doubles duo of Amanda Moberg and Aggie newcomer Julia Puckhaber was beaten 8-6 in a hard-hitting match against TU’s JoAnne Karaitiana and Alexandra Kickoutkin.

Women’s tennis coach James Helvey said he is proud of the pair’s performance.

“Our number one doubles team played really well together, especially considering they have practiced together for less than a week,” Helvey

said. “Amanda and Julia played wonderfully.”

Moberg and Puckhaber continued to fight hard in singles.

Moberg faced Anastasia Erofeeva at the number one position. The Cameron freshman played a strong match but was defeated 6-2, 6-3.

Puckhaber played an intense match as well at the number two position. However, she was outplayed by TU’s Ewa Szatkowska, losing 6-2, 6-4.

Helvey said he was pleased with the level of play at the number one and two positions.

“I am impressed with the way Amanda and Julia played.

They each stepped up and made good matches,” Helvey said.

Helvey also said that, though the team lost, he was

pleased with the women’s overall performance.

“Our girls played really well at some spots,” Helvey said. “The other team was just stronger.”

Assistant women’s coach Agustin Criado echoed Helvey’s sentiments.

“Considering we had only had four days of practice for the spring season before the match and also considering Tulsa is a Division I school, I am more than pleased with the way we played,” Criado said.

Both Helvey and Criado said they are anxious for the rest of the season to get underway.

“I am very excited about the season,” Helvey said. “Our team is strong and finishing in the top four or five in the region this season is very attainable.”

Photo by Bennett Dewan

Grass, clay and now wood: Freshmen Amanda Moberg and Julia Puckhaber celebrate a point during a halftime tennis showcase in the Aggie Gym.

Coach Watson’s team built for success

By Michael Faggett Collegian Staff The Cameron softball team plans to use this formula for the 2010 season: strong defense plus strong pitching plus a balanced offense equals wins and a berth to the Lone Star Conference playoffs.

Although it is easier said than done, head coach Beth Watson, entering her second year as head coach, said she feels excited about this season’s team in those areas.

“I am excited about this group,” Watson said. “I look forward to starting the season.”

Conference pre-season polls predicted the team to finish fourth in the North Division.

According to Watson, that prediction suits the team for the start of the season.

“It is a good place to be,” Watson said in reference to the pre-season polls. “We were not

picked first and not picked last. It is a good starting point.”

The pitching tandem of sophomore Carrie Harvey and senior Ashton McBride return to lead the squad’s pitching staff.

“They each bring different things to the mound,” Watson said. “They complement each other well.”

Harvey won freshmen of the year honors in the North Division of the conference after posting solid number.

She won 19 games with a 2.14 earned run average. She also struck out 174 batters and pitched over 196 innings.

“Carrie was one of the leading pitchers in the conference last year,” Watson said. “She wasn’t rattled by batters, which was good for the team.”

McBride returns after winning 11 games with a 3.95 earned run average. Watson credits McBride with being a leader for the

pitching staff.

“Ashton is the workhorse,” Watson said. “She is more of a strategist.”

Other returning players include senior catcher Callie Schlatter, who, according to Watson, will see some time at first base this year. Senior outfielder Kelly Lentz returns as well.

Watson said the returners played a role in helping build this team’s chemistry.

“The returners have done a great job of embracing the new players and showing the new players the ropes,” Watson said.

After losing a number of seniors last year, many new players fill Watson’s roster.

In outfield, freshmen Lesli Martini and Amanda Karth start with Lentz.

“I’m excited about the outfield,” Watson said. “We should be very strong there

defensively.”

The infield also features new players. Shortstop Meca Chambers, a transfer from Southwest Baptist University, and freshman third basemen Drew Wright look to start at their respective positions.

“I’m fired up about our infield,” Watson said. “We have some speed there and should be solid defensively.”

With a core of new players on the roster, Watson said she anticipates the offense to change.

Last season, the team hit 46 total home runs. Watson said she looks for that statistic to drop a little.

“I don’t expect us to hit as many home runs as we did last season,” Watson said. “This year we will try to play both small ball and hit for power. As a whole, our lineup one through nine is better.”

While Watson credits the

team for its play on the field, the National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) credits the team for its work in the classroom. NFCA ranked CU’s softball squad with the 29th highest team grade point average for NCAA Division II schools in the country. According to Watson, five players earned a 4.0 average during the fall semester.

“We try to be cognizant of that aspect,” Watson said in reference to the team’s grade point average. “Smart kids make my job easier.”

Watson looks to use the intelligence of her players to play good defense, pitch well, play solid offense and build on last year’s 32-win season.

“Our approach was to bring in players who will help us defensively,” Watson said. “I feel as we head to conference, our defense will be one of the best in the conference.”

Sports

February 8, 2010

7

Softball mixes classroom, ballfield talent

By Tori Strecker Collegian Staff

Photo by Bennett Dewan

Hit for precision, hit for power: Senior Catcher Callie Schlatter gets a hold of a pitch during an exhibition hame last season.

The Cameron University softball team is gearing up for the new season by recruiting solid players, practicing on the field and staying active in the classroom.

After an entire semester of preparation, the Lady Aggies began their season on Feb. 5 in San Antonio. Second-year head coach Beth Watson believes her squad is almost ready for their opening game.

“We have had a couple of really intense practices,” Watson said. “We are still ironing out a few things defensively, but we are definitely close.”

This year, the Lady Aggies have a roster of 15 girls, six of them being new faces. Before the season began, a number of things needed to be addressed. Last year, the team graduated seven seniors, so the first step in preparing for

the new season was spending a significant amount of time recruiting, Watson said.

“When I search for new recruits, my first priority is to look for what the program needs, whether that be a pitcher, catcher, outfielder, etc.,” Watson said. “I then look for certain intangible qualities such as character, work ethic and attitude. I really focus on finding girls that are the total package.”

In addition to looking for talent on the field, Watson said she also searches for someone who can excel in the classroom, as well as handle the everyday struggles that come with playing collegiate athletics.

“Academics are certainly important when picking new girls,” Watson said. “It is also just as important to have individuals who can juggle a lot of things. At the Division II level, we do a good job academically, but we just don’t

have the resources other larger universities have. So for kids to be successful here, they have to be able to balance the game and their school work.”

The Lady Aggies have seen much academic success thus far by maintaining a grade point average of at least 3.2. Also, last spring the team was ranked 29th in the nation in Division II for academics.

“My girls have done a tremendous job in the classroom,” Watson said. “After all, the way the kids perform academically is ultimately the most important thing.”

According to Watson, the second step in the preparation process is practice and acclamation.

“The fall was a really critical time for us,” Watson said. “It was very important that we mold our new girls in with our returners, as well as teach them the system and

try to make them as comfortable as possible.”

As the season approaches, Watson’s squad has their sights set on a number of things, one of them being a championship trophy.

“As a coach, you always have that conference championship in the back of your mind, so we talk quite a bit about that,” Watson said. “In the near term, however, what we look at is perfecting the little details such as relaying cuts, covering bases and defensive setups that will get us to that point in May.” Watson is pleased with the progress her team has made so far, and she is very optimistic about the future.

“I am excited about this team,” she said. “We have an outstanding group of seniors to lead us, versatility on the field and a great coaching staff, so I anticipate an exciting and successful season.”

Men’s Basketball looks to it’s leadership

By Michael Faggett Collegian Staff The Aggie men’s basketball team has a winning record in non-division games this season; however, their division game record is not as solid. Still, with many division games left to play this season, the men have time to strengthen their game.

Cameron Men’s Basketball Coach Wade Alexander said that he and his team are disappointed with the squad’s lack of division wins.

“Everybody is a little frustrated,” Alexander said. “We are playing well. We just aren’t winning.”

According to Alexander, the win shortage is a result of several factors.

Alexander said that Senior standout Kallan Glasgow simply was not playing the game on his terms during the first couple of division matches, which affected the outcomes. However, he believes that problem has been addressed and corrected.

“During the first two conference games, Glasgow was not playing his game, which hurt us, but he is back to where he needs to be now.”

Alexander did acknowledge though that there are some areas of the team’s play that must be

improved upon in order to make a division championship win possible. According to Alexander, one of the areas that need the most improvement is the team’s shot selection.

“Our shot selection needs improvement. Some of our guys think that when you run a play there is always going to be a shot at the end of it, but that’s not always the case,” Alexander said.

“Sometimes you have to turn shots down and pass the ball to someone else who is open.”

Alexander said that playing strong defense is essential for the teams to be successful in the division.

“We play defense well,” Alexander said. “We need to keep doing what we’re doing because we have to be defensively solid.”

The men’s coach said his players must improve their ability to take a charge.

“We are flopping too much on charges. We need to learn how to take a charge correctly,” Alexander said.

An increased number of charges called would, in turn, increase the number of Aggie men at the free throw line, which is something Alexander would like to see.

“We need to do a better job of getting ourselves to the basket and getting ourselves to the free throw

line,” Alexander said.

Leadership, which is valuable to any team, is an asset that Alexander believes is lacking.

“People need to start stepping up and taking ownership,” Alexander said.

The team is not without any leaders, however. Alexander said that Freshman Guard Nikola Vukadinovic has come forward and filled the role.

“Nikola is the team’s best leader.

He is not afraid to take ownership, and that is something the team really needs,” Alexander said.

The men’s coach and the team members are hoping for a repeat of last season’s success in reaching the Lone Star Conference playoffs.

It will not be an easy feat, but the squad is putting in all the hard work that is necessary to achieve that goal. Though the team may be behind in division wins currently, there is still a lot of basketball to be played, and the Aggies will have opportunities to get the wins they need.

Alexander acknowledged that the other teams in the division are good and that the Aggie men will have to play at their top level to win the upcoming matches, but he has confidence in his team.

“A lot can happen,” Alexander said. “It’s all up to us.”

Photos by Bennett Dewan

He’s heating up: Freshman Guard Nikola Vukadinovic puts up a mid-range jumper. “Niko” hit seven three-pointers in his last game.

Scholarships, funding remain robust

By Amanda Phillips Collegian Staff Most people know that it takes tax money to build roads and operate our government, but few people may stop to think about the source of funding for university athletics.

Cameron’s athletic funding comes from three sources: Equipment and General fund (ENG), SAFAC and the Foundation Account. The person in charge of managing and disbursing the Athletic Department’s funding is Cameron’s Athletic Director Jim Jackson.

According to Jackson, the ENG funding is state money that is distributed to Cameron.

Cameron then allocates the funds to different departments.

Once received, the Athletic Department can spend the money as it sees fit.

Jackson referred to the SAFAC money as auxiliary funds. However, he stated that these funds can only be spent on student-athletes or anything that directly goes to student-athletes.

Jackson described the Foundation Account as a fundraising account. Money

from donations, advertising and funding for scholarships,” Jackson fundraisers goes into the account, said. and, unlike the other money As Athletic Director, Jackson sources, the Foundation Account is responsible for allocating funds rollover the budget from year to amongst “We are good stewards Cameron’s year.

A certain of our money. We don’t 10 sports percentage of programs. live beyond our means, the Athletic Jackson said Department’s but we’re proud of our that the budget is disbursement uniforms when we’re in allocated are competition, and we try to decisions to studentbased on the take care of our athletes,” needs of each athlete scholarships.

— Jim Jackson program.

However, “I try CU Athletic Director to make he also said it that the equitable so NCAA limits that we can the number of scholarships play a full schedule in all of our each sport can have. The sports,” Jackson said. determination as to how the However, Jackson said that scholarships are disbursed is the NCAA is currently looking left up to the coaches and is at cutting back Division II monitored by Associate Athletic schedules in order to reduce costs Director Kim Vinson, who also as well as the amount of class serves as Cameron’s Compliance time missed by student-athletes.

Coordinator. It is Vinson’s job Overall, Jackson said that he to ensure that more money is not is pleased with the department’s awarded than the NCAA allows. management of the budget.

Jackson said that some sports “We are good stewards of our have scholarship endowments, money. We don’t live beyond which is helpful to the our means, but we’re proud of department’s budget. our uniforms when we’re in “We’re in really good shape in competition, and we try to take

care of our athletes,” Jackson said.

While many in the community may miss the football program Cameron had in past years, Jackson thinks that the absence of a football program at Cameron benefits the department’s budget.

“We don’t have football, which helps us do well with our money because football is an expensive sport,” Jackson said. “If we had a football program, most of our money would go to that program.”

However, Jackson believes that it is not so much about the amount of money a department has, but rather what that department does with the money.

“It’s what you do with the money you have. It’s important to focus on the positives and not dwell on the negatives,” Jackson said.

At the end of the day, Jackson said that his main objective is to make sure that student-athletes have a positive experience at Cameron.

“I want students to feel like they were treated right when they leave, because it’s what students say about Cameron that makes this university what it is,” Jackson said.

Screenshot Cameron Twitter

CU family: A Cameron montage shows the 10 sports the Aggies field in NCAA Div. II play.

8

A&E

February 8, 2010

Review by Joshua Rouse

MCT Campus

Beauty and the beast: Grunt, a trigger-happy Krogan, joins Shepard’s crew along with the Tali, a Quarian machinist from the first game.

Bioware’s “Mass Effect” is handedly one of the best new IPs to be released this console generation.

The blend of intense action and Bioware’s fantastic RPG elements made it a must-have title for the Xbox 360 and, later, on the PC. Since the franchise had already been announced as a trilogy, the Canadian developers had their work cut out to deliver an experience that was at least as good as the first. Two years later, “Mass Effect 2” delivers an experience, not only as good as its predecessor, but expands upon the universe and dares to go where few games want.

Anyone complaining about a lack of maturity in the video game industry need look no further than “Mass Effect 2.” There are no steroid-enhanced foulmouthed super soldiers taking down swarms of monstrous enemies with nothing more than a machine gun and a slew of oneliners. These characters are some of the most well written, well thought out and most fleshed out that have ever been featured in a game.

It’s through these characters that the events of “Mass Effect 2” really come alive. You experience their sacrifices, their decisions and their relationships. The best part of it all is you’re completely in control of what happens. Bioware has expanded the conversation system from the first game to a whole new level. Nothing like this has ever been done in an RPG before. There are so many options and decisions that literally change the dynamic of the game. People will live and people will die based solely on the decisions you make over the course of the game.

After a brief prologue, which

reunites Commander Shepard and the rest of his crew from the original game, two years pass and Shepard must answer the call by the rogue Cerberus organization to save humanity. This presents an interesting dynamic because Shepard spent much of the first game eliminating elements of Cerberus, which operates as a pro-human mafia-like organization in a universe where humans are looked down upon. Decisions made in the first game can carry over to the sequel, completely changing the way humans are regarded. Your Shepard character from the original game also carries over.

While you won’t be able to keep your level 60 super soldier, you are given extra credits and mineral deposits, as well as a head start on the new game’s leveling. It might not sound like much, but there are advantages to importing characters, besides the basic streamlined continuity. If you never played the original game, you can answer a series of simple questions that will establish the groundwork for your playthrough.

In “Mass Effect 2,” Shepard is sent to investigate why hundreds of thousands of humans are disappearing from colonies across the galaxy. Many believe it to be the Reapers, a race of machines that enter the galaxy every 50,000 years to destroy all living organisms. The story is much darker than the first, as Shepard will have to recruit assassins, murderers, psychopaths and many other shady individuals for his cause.

“Mass Effect 2” is much longer than the first, and can take more than 20 hours to complete with the different side quests and diversions. One can spend hours just in conversation with the members of the crew. They all have their unique personalities that can charm . . . or annoy.

Surveying planets is more engaging than the first game, but has its drawbacks. Each time you go into orbit above a planet, you can scan it for mineral deposits, which will help you upgrade your weapons and armor. However, scanning a planet can become so tedious that you’ll grow tired of the game. The Normandy launches probes to the surface of planets to gather resources and send them back. It’s more interactive than ever, but you need to constantly restock on probes by going to the nearest fuel station, which might be in another cluster of the galaxy. The idea of scanning planets is good in theory, but still needs more work.

The gameplay has significantly changed from the first game. In a way, “Mass Effect 2” is more third-person shooter than RPG. Gone are the dozens of weapons options with different damage settings and efficiencies. They’re replaced with streamlined weapons that have standard damage settings, which can be augmented by Shepard’s different abilities. There is an ammunition feature in the game for the first time. According to the game’s lore, these new weapons feature cool down clips, which keep the weapon from overheating after

so many shots. It’s somewhat contrived, but the combat is much more fun than the first game.

There are six different playable classes to choose from.

Each one combines the use of biotics, tech and combat traits.

They all offer their own playing styles, which will complement the other members of the squad during missions. In actuality, you can play through the game six different times for each class and enjoy it a different way.

The technical issues that marred the first “Mass Effect” are all but gone. The graphics looks much better than the first game, and characters are more impressive than ever. The framerate holds around 30 FPS on consoles, but can hold at 60 FPS on a powerful gaming computer. Texture pop-in is kept to a minimum, but can still happen here and there. It’s no longer the distracting eyesore it once was.

“Mass Effect 2” is the “Empire Strikes Back” of the video game world. It builds upon everything set forth in the original game and makes them even better. It’s darker, more mature and riveting than the first game, or any other similar games. In “Mass Effect 2,” you control the story and the fate of the characters. For once, it’s not just a bullet point on the back of the box; it’s the real deal.

“Mass Effect 2” is rated M for Mature by the Entertainment Software Eatings Board and is available on the Xbox 360 and PC.

A&E

February 8, 2010

9

Diverse students gather, share

By Tatiana Isis Collegian Staff In an attempt to encourage greater appreciation of different cultures, members of Cameron’s International Club gather every week to discuss and share their different countries and cultures.

Students from over 45 different countries make up the International Club, spanning from the islands of St. Lucia and Tortola, to the countries of Japan and Russia. People from places big and small all have one thing in common: being international students in the United States.

Even though it is an International Club, membership is not limited to just international students. U.S. students are encouraged to join to learn more about these different cultures.

The club organizes different fundraisers year-round in order to fund their trips. The club recently organized cake sales to

generate funds in order sponsor events and projects that it organizes for its members.

Throughout the year, the club organizes country presentations, where members showcase the various cultures of their country to the club. Members give speeches and bring in pictures and dishes from their country.

The club also organizes outdoor activities, such as trips to the Wichita Mountains, Dallas and Oklahoma City.

Members of the club recently made a trip to Oklahoma City to visit the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum, where they had lunch and took a trip around the city. The club also organizes movie nights every week and is planning on organizing a Valentine’s Day photo shoot to raise money for future trips.

The International Club has also been participating in the Lawton International Festival for the past four years, which takes place the last weekend in

September and celebrates the cultural diversity of LawtonFort Sill. The annual open-air event hosts a wide variety of food booths, art, crafts, displays and outstanding performances and entertainment from around the world.

Members of the International Club participated in the event last year by representing their nations in the opening ceremonies. The students wore their national wear along with a sash stating what country they were representing and walked on stage to say hello in their native language.

International Student Admissions Coordinator Marcella Gustafson is responsible for helping international students

succeed and assists them from the moment they apply to Cameron until after they graduate.

The students are very diverse and, though most of them are business and science majors, many of the students are majoring in fi ne arts, music and communication as well.

Their main reason for choosing Lawton is because Cameron University tuition is very affordable, said Gustafson.

“We are able to offer students who qualify a nonresident tuition rate,” she said.

For international students, that means thousands of dollars in savings.

Cortel Payne, a senior

Business Management major, is a member of the International Club and a native of the island of Tortola in the British Virgin Islands, where he is a teacher.

After graduating from CU, he plans on returning to Tortola to continue teaching.

He joked that his decision to come to Cameron was a case of fi rst-come, fi rst-serve “It was the fi rst college to reply to my application,” he said.

The club also has been working with Better World Books to help fight illiteracy worldwide by collecting books at the end of each semester and sending them to the organization, an effort the club has pursued for the past three years.

Students interested in joining the International Club may contact Marcella Gustafson for more information. There is a $5 per semester fee to join.

Meetings are typically held at 5 p.m. each Friday in the Centennial Room.

PAC looks at campus activities on spring horizon

By Amanda Finch

allow students to escape from the stress, relax and have fun.”

Collegian Staff This will be Harris’ third year as This spring, the Program an involved PAC member. Harris Activities Council (PAC) plans to says she joined the organization bring bigger and better events to because she enjoys planning events students. and would like PAC to plan events kicked off the “College classes can as a career. first couple Students in become stressful. Events weeks of the PAC have the are fun times that allow semester opportunity students to escape from with a free to chair events lunch in the the stress, relax and have and learn Student how to work fun.”

Activities behind the Building, scenes during free T-shirts — Amanda Harris the planning at the men PAC Member phases. Harris and women has chaired basketball several dances game played against Northeastern and has been on many committees.

State and a hot dog karaoke night.

“I chair events because it’s fun The purpose of PAC is to and it allows me to be creative. It provide exciting free activities and also helps me learn more about the entertainment while meeting the planning process,” she said. social needs of students. Junior Students can look forward to PAC member and Public Relations Open Mic Night on Feb. 9 in the major Amanda Harris encourages Student Activities Building, a week students to attend events hosted by full of Homecoming activities the organization. scheduled from Feb. 15 through “Students should attend events Feb. 20 and the Lip Sync Contest because they are fun and easy scheduled to take place on March ways to meet new people,” Harris 9 in the Shepler Ballroom. PAC said, “College classes can become members also plan to host several stressful. Events are fun times that CU at the Game events and movie

nights.

“I am most excited about the lip sync contest. It is something new and exciting that the students will enjoy,” Harris said.

The lip sync contest is an opportunity for campus organizations and individuals to perform entertaining acts that require no singing ability. PAC members thought it would be a fun event for students to get involved and imitate their favorite musical performances.

Freshman Rachel Carlson joined PAC to get involved in planning campus activities and has worked on the PAC Street Team specializing in creative advertising.

The PAC Street Team is focused primarily on unconventional and

Graphic courtesy of PAC

memorable advertising that uses visual props such as costumes, music and demonstrations.

“I want to encourage students to check out PAC and come to our events because they are fun and free,” Carlson said.

Students wishing to get involved in PAC activities can simply attend

PAC meetings every Monday night in the Student Activities Building, where they can volunteer to help behind the scenes of various events.

Students who want more information on PAC can call student activities at 581.2217 or visit the Web site at www.cameron.edu/pac.

‘LOST’ premiere continues tradition of posing more questions than answers

By Joshua Rouse Collegian Staff What lies in the shadow of the statue?

Apparently, the shadow contains the mysterious monster that many “LOST” fans have come to call “Smokie.” The monster has been one of the longest-running mysteries of the hit show that debuted six years ago.

Since then, “LOST” has become a cultural phenomenon, and is now concluding its final season. But while the upcoming end may be a sad time for fans, it

finally signals the moment many have been waiting for — the time for answers.

Feb. 2 was the season premier for the series’ final season and it didn’t disappoint. Already writer/ producers Damon Lindelof and Carlton Cuse answered the mystery behind the creepy smoke monster that killed Mr. Eko and the unfortunate pilot in the pilot episode. But while they did answer some questions, they posed just as many. Who is the entity that’s taken Locke’s form?

Who are the people living at the ancient temple? Did the hydrogen bomb plan actually work?

For the next 16 episodes,

these questions will hopefully be answered, and the secret of the island will finally be revealed.

When “LOST” debuted six years ago, no one could have anticipated the resounding success it would become. It was a serial drama, which rarely find success on broadcast television. It featured a cast of near unknowns and started the mysteries within the first episode. Besides, how successful could a show be about a group of people who crashed on an island be? “Gilligan’s Island” has come and gone, but this no sitcom.

The unique aspect of the show, and its driving force, are

the characters themselves, rather than the mysteries that it builds upon. Every character, from Jack to Locke or Sayid to Hurley, have serious issues with their life, and they’re not exactly good people either. But it’s their interesting back stories and how they’re woven together that really sets the show apart.

Mysteries have been building since the beginning of the series: the smoke monster, the Others, Jacob, Whitmore and others.

Throughout the nine-month hiatus between seasons, Lindelof and Cuse continued to say they would finally answer the questions that people have been

asking. Judging by the premiere, questions are already being answered, but more questions are being raised.

It’s too early to say whether every mystery will be solved and whether all of the questions people have will ultimately be answered. But that would take some of the fun out of a show that has managed to captivate millions for so long . “LOST” has become an international phenomenon and still has yet to disappoint.

One thing is for certain: there are only 16 episodes left, and there is a lot of explaining to do.

Photo courtesy ABC/Touchstone

10

Variety

February 8, 2010

ICE continued from page 1

Deep freeze: A branch is encased with a thick layer of ice as a result of heavy freezing rain and sustained below-freezing temperatures.

Thankfully, he said, they could get water the old fashioned way -- with a bucket. A cold bath and several “Star Trek” movies later, Pettijohn said it was time to come back to Lawton.

“I stayed at home until Friday, with no juice,” he said. “We had a battery, a little TV and a power converter. Later that night, I popped in some “Star Trek” DVDs and watched that. But the power wasn’t coming on, and I got tired of taking a shower with a bucket.”

Life at Cameron wasn’t much better. When Pettijohn arrived, he discovered the elevators weren’t working, and he lives on the tenth floor of the Shepler Tower.

“Climbing 10 flights of stairs left me [breathing heavily],” he said. “It sucked, but it was manageable. You have to do with what you have. I was just happy to have hot water.”

Freshman Psychology major Chad Hagermann dodged the brunt of the ice storm while visiting friends and family at Lake Lawtonka. After classes were canceled on Jan. 28, he stayed at the lake and returned to campus Friday. When he got back, Hagermann found that the dorms had lost electricity and were being powered by generators.

“The first thing I did back on campus was check my dorm room and see if everything worked -- everything did for the most part,” he said. “I then went to the Shepler cafeteria for dinner.

Although the climate would make you think that we were at a disaster shelter, Sodexo did an amazing job providing food for the students and, surprisingly, the quality of the meal wasn’t lacking either.”

The following day, the dorm residents were notified the heat in the dorms had been shut off due to a lack of electricity. The fitness center was opened 24 hours as a place where students could go to keep warm.

“With every issue they faced, the Office of Student Housing and their staff, along with the great help of the RA’s, made sure that every resident was safe and had all their needs met,” Hagermann said.

Electricity was restored Sunday night, but students faced a new problem Tuesday when a generator, which was powering the water treatment facility in Medicine Park, blew. This forced much of Comanche County to conserve water through Thursday morning.

“The water issue came as a surprise to the university and its residents,” Hagermann said. “Cameron, just as they had done after the ice storm, acted quickly and rationally to the situation. The two days without water was not as severe as the City of Lawton had made it out to be. “ Pettijohn said the experience wasn’t as bad as it could have been, but he was happy to take a shower.

“The first day, they didn’t want us taking showers or using any water that we didn’t absolutely need,” he said. “You could see everyone’s greasy hair the next day. But it was a nice reminder how we’re all really spoiled.”

Water shortage dealt with in stride On February 2, just as things seemed to be getting back to normal both on campus and around Lawton the students of campus housing were notified of another weather related issue.

Due to a broken generator at the Medicine Park water treatment facility the town of Lawton was being asked to conserve water.

Taking this news in stride Cameron proceeded to ask its on campus residents to comply with the water use restrictions.

Flyers and messages were sent out notifying the students in the Village and dorms that they were not to use water unless absolutely necessary. This restriction included refraining from flushing toilets whenever possible.

Cameron rented and placed portable toilets outside the Village and Shepler towers.

Furthermore, acknowledging the inconvenience of having to use the portable toilets, the Student Housing department made two trips to Wichita Falls to purchase gallon water jugs. The jugs were distributed by hand to the students to be used to flush toilets.

CU’s preperations for impending weather pay off

Timber: As a result of heavy icing this tree outside Nance Boyer lost major portions of its branches.

Limbs down: This tree, one of several outside the Fitness Center, sustained significant damage to it’s branches.

Generation: In order to keep the lights on and run the cafeteria, two generators were brought in.

Despite the challenges that were presented by the recent winter storm, by all accounts Cameron did an excellent job of seeing that the students living on campus were taken care of.

According to the Director of Student Housing Casey Case, Cameron’s adept handling of the problems caused by the inclement weather are thanks in part to planning.

“Preparation for a situation like this starts long before the emergency occurs,” Case said. “We train our staff for these types of situations and we have disaster plans in place for when something like this happens.”

Case said that thanks to the warnings given by weather forecasts, it was possible to put specific plans into place.

“We had some advanced notice to prepare. Once we knew what was coming, we worked through all the possible scenarios as a group and brought all of our staff together to let them know what was happening and to help them to distribute information to the residents,” Case said.

Once it became clear that the weather was going to directly affect campus, the housing staff started by notifying students of the emergency plans.

“We tried to over-communicate everything to make sure everyone knew what was happening,” Case said. “The Fitness Center was our shelter in case of any extended loss of heat or power, and we kept it open 24/7 during the power and heat losses in Shepler.”

Glenn Pinkston, Vice President of Business and Finance, said plans were put into motion as early as Jan. 26, the Tuesday before the storm.

“We met and started doing some planning, and part of that was to rent and get delivered four generators. Those generators arrived on Wednesday, and we began getting them ready to take over in case the electricity failed,” Pinkston said.

As part of the emergency plans, the housing staff informed the students that, in the event of an extended loss of power, Village residents were to meet in the McMahon Center and Shepler residents were to meet in the cafeteria. From these meeting places the staff would then instruct the students and get them to the Fitness Center.

With much of the area receiving more than a half-inch of ice, snapping tree limbs and power poles, Cameron made it through the weekend with very few power-related issues. Most electricity was lost to the Shepler towers due to a downed power line near the administration building.

“The university never went completely dark,” Pinkston said.

Photos by Jim Horinek

“We lost a third of the power that enabled us to run all the heating and air handling equipment. We were basically without heat in the building.”

In the mean time, as part of the plan to keep the students safe and comfortable, Sodexo food services maintained regular meals in the cafeteria throughout the weekend. This resource was considered essential for the students since a loss of power made it difficult for many of the students to cook for themselves.

“We prepared by ordering extra disposable supplies and products that were easier to prepare and lots of bottled water,” Food Service Director Daniel Ghrayyeb said. “We have some equipment that runs on gas so we were able to cook on those items. We also purchased butane for burners and Sterno to use for cooking and warming food.”

Pinkston said keeping the cafeteria and fitness center powered were top priorities.

“Our goal during this was to keep students safe, warm and fit,” he said.

According to Women’s Hall Director Krystle McCorgary, the loss of power posed many problems but one of the unsuspected results was the effect of boredom on the residents.

“The students got very stir crazy and started to behave in some unusual ways. Some were smoking in the hallways or making unnecessary messes on the housing floors,” McCorgary said.

Case explained that despite their best efforts there are things that you cannot plan for. As a result, it has already been noted of things that can be done differently in the event of a future emergency situation.

“One thing we would do in the future is make sure and plan some events for the students during this time. Such as, showing movies and things of that nature in order to help ease the restlessness,” Case said.

Thanks to the preparation done by Cameron a situation that could have been very difficult was relatively smooth.

“When inclement weather like this occurs, it is our obligation to ensure that our students are safe and as comfortable as possible,” Case said. “That is the promise we make to them and their parents or guardians.”

Pinkston said the entire situation was one big learning experience. For the most part, everything went smoothly, but there were lessons to be learned.

“We’re making some lists and conducting debriefings,” he said,” so that lessons we learned are not forgotten.”

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