The Cameron University Collegian April 13, 2015

Collegian T he Cameron University

www.aggiecentral.com

Monday, April 13, 2015

Volume 92 Issue 8

Cameron modifies alcohol policy Charlene Belew and Jacob Jardel

“The institution is not really changed other than just making [the policy] more defined, which is a real benefit to the students,” he said. “[The previous policy] was pretty vague. We were all on board to outline Collegian Staff this policy for people to know.”

Cameron students and organizations can The new campus alcohol policy outlines expect a new take on the old campus alcohol steps university officials will take in response policy this semester. to policy violations.

The Board of Regents overseeing Individual ramifications may include Cameron University approved revisions to parent, guardian and/or third party the alcohol policy in March to be effective notification via return receipt certified immediately. Student Housing, Student mail an a follow-up phone call; a monetary Development, the Wellness Center, Campus fine or mandatory community service; Life and the Dean of Students office drafted completing educational alcohol or counseling the amended policy. programs; student housing probation or In the policy, provisions clarified suspension; and disciplinary probation or repercussions for having or imbibing alcohol automatic suspension. The severity of these on campus and allowed for a new minimum ramifications differs for each strike accrued.

“Three Strikes” policy. The policy defined a According to the policy, “if a student strike as a final University action that finds is suspended after the third strike and is a student or students guilty of a violation readmitted to Cameron University, the involving alcohol. student is readmitted with two strikes.”

The policy states alcohol violations and On an organizational level, consequences misconduct includes a “minor in possession of could include a University imposed fine; alcohol; public intoxication; manufacture, use completion of an educational alcohol program or possession of false identification; driving by 100 percent of active members; aggregate under the influence; driving while intoxicated community service projects with a minimum and involvement in a crime while under the amount of required hours for each member of influence.” the organization; a formal written warning, Dean of Students Zeak Naifeh said the disciplinary probation or organizational policy is more of a revision to the old policy suspension. with some added transparency to make the However, organizational sanctions students more aware of the process. are not just confined to campus. The new

Individual 1st offense:

Individual 2nd offense:

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Parent/guardian and/or 3rd party notification via return receipt certified mail

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Parent/guardian and/or 3rd party notification via return receipt certified mail with a follow-up telephone call

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$25 fine or 10 hours of community service

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$75 fine or 20 hours of community service

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Satisfactorily complete a defined alcohol program

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Student housing probation

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Disciplinary warning

Satisfactorily complete an approved alcohol counseling brief intervention and referral in the Student Wellness Center

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Student housing probation or suspension

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Disciplinary probation

policy states sanctions administered to organizations will consider whether the violation was funded by the organization and if the violation occurred on organization property.

The policy also considers if two or more individuals of an organization take part in a violation while representing the organization regardless of the event’s location.

Lastly, the policy takes into account if the event uses the organization’s name or logo or if the organization’s event is designed to circumvent violation sanctions.

Cameron senior T.C. Ototivo, President of Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity, is a 23-year-old student who disagrees with the off-campus sanctions.

“It’s sanctions like this that make me glad I live off campus,” Ototivo said. “I have no problem with the rules as Cameron and the Board of Education pay a lot more money than I do to keep their University running.

“If they don’t want drunk students on campus, well hey, that’s what they want. I just don’t like the deal behind the rules if you have a private event off campus in your own house you can receive sanctions.”

See ALCOHOL Page 2

Individual 3rd offense: •

Parent/guardian and/or 3rd party notification via return receipt certified mail with a follow-up telephone call

•

Automatic suspension

If a student if suspended after the 3rd strike and is readmitted to Cameron University, the student is readmitted with 2 strikes.

Graphic by Charlene Belew

2015 Aggie graduates celebrate through spring events The Collegian Staff With graduation only 26 days away, Cameron University has put on a variety of events for Aggies in the Class of 2015 to prepare them for the moment when they cross the finish line.

The graduation fair, sponsored by the Cameron University Bookstore, took over the McCasland Ballroom for the majority of March 26 to ensure seniors could complete their checklist before May 8.

Bookstore manager George Woodwards, assistant manager Debbie Havens and sales associate Linda Purdue are the brains behind the graduation fair each year.

Woodwards said before the graduation fair, students were able to fill out order forms and pick up their graduation items later.

“With the graduation fair however, we are able

CU Public Affairs

to order large quantities of graduation regalia and have it all here in one place,” Woodwards said. “So it’s like a one-stop shop.”

During the fair, Aggie seniors were invited to apply for graduation, purchase their cap and gown, examine student loan debts and options available and look further into possibilities for graduate school.

“If students wanted to order a class ring, there

was a company that had a booth set up at the fair they could do that with,” Woodwards said. “There was another booth set up for students who wanted to order graduation invitation, and even a station where students could have their pictures taken.”

Other Cameron organizations at the graduation fair were from the Registrar, the Alumni Assocation, Career

Services, Admissions and Financial Aid. Career Services Coordinator Paula Merrifield worked at the graduation event and said the fair is a wonderful opportunity to simplify the process of graduating for students.

“They no longer have to run across campus to different offices to get everything done,” Merrifield said. “The end of the

semester is stressful enough for most students.”

Career Services helps graduating seniors by providing them with the skills to build their resumes and tips on how to better interviewing processes.

“We also work with local and national employers to identify job opportunities for Cameron graduates,” Merrifield said.

Career services also provided sign ups for mock

interview and resume reviews. About 35 students signed up for resume reviews and only four spots remain for mock interviews with an employer.

The graduation fair offered a raff le for diploma frames.

CU’s commencement ceremony is at 7:30 p.m. on May 8. The hooding ceremony for graduate students is set for 3 p.m. on the same day in the Aggie Gym. This year’s commencement speaker is actor and environmentalist Ed Begley, Jr.

For more information on the 2015 CLASS CAMPAIGN PROJECT See Page 4

What’s inside Take a swim with Susan May Page 5

‘Mad Men’ comes to an end

Aggie softball wins opener

Page 6

Page 8

2

News

April 13, 2015

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All-majors Fair educates Aggies Exploring majors: Career Services hosted the All-majors Fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Tuesday, April 7 in the MCC Ballroom. Aggies attended to find their “all-star future” by comparing and contrasting the majors offered at Cameron University. Popcorn was available at the event, and over 15 different departments represented themselves from the Black and Gold community at the event.

Organization 1st offense:

Organization 2nd offense:

Organization 3rd offense:

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At the discretion of the University and after considering all relevant information, the University will impose a minimum fine of $100.

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At the discretion of the University and after considering all relevant information, the University will impose a minimum administrative fee of $200.

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100 percent of the organization’s active membership must complete a defined alcohol education program.

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100 percent of the organization’s active membership must complete a defined alcohol education program.

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An aggregate community service requirement for the organization of 20 hours per active member based on the organization’s membership at the time of the violation; it is at the discretion of the University as to whether pledges or associate members will be included in fulfilling the requirements of this sanction.

•

Disciplinary probation: exclusion from participation in privileged or extracurricular University activities set forth in the notice for a period of time specified. Other conditions of the probabtion may apply to any other activities of the organization in the University community, except those that would affect organization’s academic pursuits.

•

•

An aggregate community service requirement for the organization of 10 hours per active member at the time of the violation; it is at the discretion of the University as to whether pledges or associate members will be included in fulfilling the requirements of the sanction.

Formal written warning: a written reprimand for violation of specified regulations, including the possibility of more severe disciplinary sanctions in the event of the finding of a violation of any University regulation within a state period of time.

Organization suspension: the organization will be suspended for a minimum of one year.

University approval, granted by the Office of Campus Life, is required before the organization will be reinstated.

Any violation by the group remains part of the organization’s “three strikes” record for a period of three calendar years, unless the organization requests and the University grants the removal of an eligible first strike in accordance with the Student Alcohol Policy. All parties involved shall be held accountable.

The Cameron Collegian Now accepting applications Members of the Collegian staff represent the Cameron student body through ethics-driven, socially-conscious student journalism.

Editor and staff positions are open, and any Cameron student may apply.

Applications are available on Mr. Bublitz’s office door, room 105 in the Academic Commons.

Photo by Charlene Belew

For more information, call 580-581-2997 or visit aggiecentral.com.

Tweet to @aggiecentral

Photo by Charlene Belew

ALCOHOL continued from Page 1 If an organization receives three strikes, they will be placed under organization suspension for a minimum of one year and University approval, granted by the Office of Campus Life, is mandatory before the organization can be reinstated.

Under the revised campus policy, University officials may be notified of misconduct through police reports from CU Public Safety or other law enforcement or security agencies, an incident report generated in Student Housing, notification by a University official or any other information deemed reliable by the University.

Naifeh said the University does not jump to conclusions and strives to avoid putting innocent Aggies under probation. He said the new policy provides a cut-and-dry understanding for students when it comes to disciplinary action.

“My focus for discipline is that any kind of student conduct and discipline should

Photo by Krista Pylant

be educational,” Naifeh said. “Every stage of the process, there’s some kind of educational component where students can learn to better themselves and educate them with what’s going on and their repercussions.”

Director of Student Development Dr. Jennifer Pruchnicki said when revising the policy, standards and procedures from other institutions were taken into account.

“The policy also ensures the student receives due process and notice,” Pruchnicki said. “Should a student be affected in the three strikes sanction process, we would work with the student to try to make sure they don’t get to the third strike. We are here to be supportive and work with them on a plan for their success on our campus.”

Finally, the policy states all fines collected as a result of the given statutes will be used to further the university’s alcohol and drug educational programs.

3

Voices

April 13, 2015

www.aggiecentral.com

Animating LGBTQ+ role models

Joel Frambes Copy Editor @JoelPole12

The integration of LGBTQ+ culture in the U.S. has increased the prevalence of gay marriages and its focus in media and entertainment. Homosexuality has long been considered taboo or an adult subject in television and movies, but as society is moving away from that stigma, we have introduced it to broader audiences.

Children are starting to be included in this widespread exposure as anime and cartoons adopt a more liberal stance on the sexuality of their characters.

Cartoon Network (CN) is proving to be one of the more progressive networks with more than one show in their current lineup featuring an LGBTQ+ relationship, but the title for biggest sexuality plot twist belongs to Nickelodeon (Nick).

In the sequel to their cult cartoon “Avatar,” Nick dropped a bombshell in the finale of “The Legend of Korra.” After three seasons of complicated relationships with her male counterparts, Korra journeys into the spirit world hand in hand with Asami, her trusting friend.

While the ending did have romantic implications, their

for “Clarence” Spencer Rothbell “He’s trying to write the book relationship was never explicitly Ruby and Sapphire reunited after [for ‘Adventure Time’] and stuff, so recalled on Twitter the day the declared within the show. Cobeing captured and tortured, the I wanted to pick Pen’s brain a little episode premiered the struggle he creator Bryan Konietzko took to two kissed each others’ tears away had getting the network to approve bit,” she said. “And he says, ‘Oh, Tumblr to confirm the rumours. and expressed how deeply they the gay relationship. cared for the others well being. The you know they dated, right?’”

“Korra and Asami fell in love,” “Originally the guy had flowers While these complex and he wrote. “Were they friends? Yes, animated women clearly loved each and they kissed on the mouth,” he atypical relationships have been other. and they still are, but they also said. hard to come by, they should give grew to have romantic feelings for “Steven Universe” also touched Regardless of this struggle to each other.” on a transgender character with the credit to predecessors. In the 90s, expose audiences to relationships “The Powerpuff Girls” featured fusion of Steven and his girlfriend CN’s “Clarence,” “Steven outside the boundaries of a transgender villain known as Universe” and “Adventure Time” Connie. This new character, “Him,” who had a voice synthesized heterosexuality, the ideas are still have all shown varying degrees Stevonnie, was the subject of out there. from male to female and crossof expressing non-heterosexual infatuation among both men and Conveying the message to relationships to develop already women and showed mannerisms of dressed along the same transgender youthful audiences is incredibly lines. both compositional genders. wholesome characters’ dynamics important because their “Sailor Moon,” which debuted and backstories.

Like “The Legend of Korra,” understanding of homosexuality in 1992 in Japan and 1995 in the As the most recent addition to two of the main female characters can only be improved through more U.S., featured a lesbian relationship this lineup, “Clarence” has pushed of “Adventure Time,” Marceline accepted and prevalent portrayals between Sailor Uranus and Sailor the heteronormative boundaries and Princess Bubblegum, were in of diverse sexualities and genders.

Neptune in the original version a bisexual relationship, but it has to regions unexplored by previous Each step taken towards shows on CN. The show depicted not yet been explicitly shown in the that aired in Japan; however, in the normalizing homosexual English version, their relationship show. a kiss on the cheek between two was changed to cousins. relationships will lead to gender men meeting at a restaurant. After Fan theories were confirmed equality beyond cartoons and the Censorship like this surely sparking controversy with the when voice actress for Marceline media. limited the number of early Olivia Olsen recalled in a YouTube network and barely making it on examples of LGBTQ+ culture “Maybe one day the main the show, this depiction of gay men video of a book signing that she character can be gay and it won’t in cartoons, but it continues is the first of its kind for CN. discovered the relationship after to restrict the more modern be a big deal,” Rothbell said on Although it is a minute detail, learning more about her character Tumblr in response to fan criticism. shows. Writer and voice actor Jeff, one of the main characters of from creator Pendleton Ward. the show and friend of Clarence, is depicted in his home with a picture Tribune News Service of his parents in the background.

In similar fashion to the restaurant scene, the picture displays a loving relationship between his two moms.

Relations in “Steven Universe” are a bit more complicated than the groundbreaking characters of “Clarence”. Garnet, one of the mythical, ageless protectors of Earth called the Crystal Gems who are all female except for Steven, is revealed in the season one finale to be a fusion of the two other Crystal Gems Ruby and Sapphire. The two fused together almost permanently to be as close to each other as possible.

This is not an intense, platonic relationship as was intended by Animated: Jeff and Clarence from the Cartoon Network series “Clarence” share a controversial kiss creator Rebecca Sugar. When while meeting at a restaurant. This depiction of gay men was the first of its kind on Cartoon Network.

Diversity: stressing the uniqueness of the individual us so conscious of ethnicity, race, gender and personal preferences that we focus on those traits instead of the individual to decide if they are diverse.

In 2013 Cameron University created a group called Diversity Diplomats. Those who see pictures of the 2014 ambassadors may scoff and say this group is not diverse because its outward appearance does not seem to be representative Jereme Cobb of all races and is comprised Content Editor mainly of one gender. If we can look past people’s outward Diversity is a popular term appearance, and get to know people throw around like a good luck charm. But what does the individuals, we can discover a group’s diversity. the word really mean?

Personally, I like the Dictionary.com defines definition of diversity listed diversity as “the state or fact above. However, not many of being diverse; difference; people are satisfied with such unlikeness.” a definition. They feel race, This reference lacks a gender and ethnicity must be description of a person’s included in the definition. I outward appearance or personal disagree. preferences, but instead Diversity should be contains a simple criterion: about the uniqueness of the being different. It means people individual. We should be can be similar but still be focusing on who people are unique or one of a kind. inside, not their outward However, our society makes appearances. Race, gender and About Us

The official student newspaper of Cameron University, The Cameron Collegian is available each Monday during the year. It is printed by the Lawton Constitution. The first issue is provided for free. Each subsequent issue is $1.50.

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ethnicity can help a person stand out more in certain settings and give them a unique perspective, but I don’t feel it should be a requirement to be considered diverse. Diversity is something we should have an active part in and be able to effect, not a label we are born with.

Recently the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) announced their Diversity Leadership Program is accepting new applications.

One of their few criteria to be eligible is applicants must “be a person of color or other underrepresented group (i.e., LGBT/ disabled).”

While it is good to have programs that encourage minorities and other groups to participate, shouldn’t at least a few majorities be included in such groups to make them truly diverse, especially if our definition of diversity is the individual and not outward appearances?

Minorities and underrepresented groups need to have a voice, because they bring their own unique

perspectives, ideas and culture to the table. We need to ensure everyone has an equal chance to be heard and not exclude people because they are different or we might not agree with what they have to say.

However, when we focus so hard to be inclusive of certain groups or minorities, we are in danger of being blind to the majority or others and discourage or hurt their ability to participate in a truly diverse society.

For instance, as a member of the SPJ, I would have loved to participate in the Diversity Leadership Program, but because I am a white male, I do not meet their criteria.

Where is the equality in that?

Shouldn’t people be encouraged to join in programs that encourage diversity, regardless of the dispositions they were born with? Doesn’t racism and discrimination in all forms hurt not only individuals but also society?

Based on U.S. Census records, it’s speculated that in the next century the gap between the majorities and

THE CAMERON UNIVERSITY

COLLEGIAN Founded in 1926 veritas sempiterna

Editorial Staff

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

The unsigned editorial under the heading “Voices” represents the opinion of the majority of the editorial board.

The opinions expressed in The Collegian do not necessarily represent those of Cameron University or the state of Oklahoma.

Managing Editor - Charlene Belew Asst. Managing Editor - Jacob Jardel A&E Editor - Kaley Patterson Sports Editor - Krista Pylant Student Life Editor - Vicky Smith Copy Editor - Joel Frambes Aggie Central Editor- Jereme Cobb

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

Financial Officer - Susan Hill Staff Writers - Marie Bagwell, Hafsa Farah, Haley Swinford Circulation Manager - Charlene Belew Advertising Managers - Charlene Belew, Kaley Patterson Faculty Adviser - Mr. David Bublitz

Newsroom Staff

minorities will be significantly reduced, and further on may even reverse current positions.

When that happens, will our children still treat each other as we do today, or will we start to treat each other equally today so in the future this problem won’t exist?

The term equality is treated similarly to diversity. Anytime someone applies for a job they hear of, or see, the term ‘equal opportunity’ and it ends up feeling more like a goal to fill a quota, and less about giving all employees equal rights and opportunities in the workplace.

Instead of focusing so much on diversity and equality, and risking ignoring or hurting others, wouldn’t it be simpler and more practical to create a goal to treat others as we would want to be treated?

While creating programs to encourage diversity and equality are needed, when do we stop focusing on quotas and buzzwords to start focusing on the merits of the individual, instead of societal labels? We should be helping each other, not because the color of each

other’s skin or gender, but out of a genuine desire to give a helping hand to our fellow human, so they can be the best person they want to be.

In my time at Cameron, I’ve worked alongside people of different faiths, races, ethnicities, cultures and genders. I’ve had many great conversations about faith, politics and other topics.

However, I’ve had few experiences where I could have joined conversations, but because I knew my views differed from those talking, or because I was in a majority group, I felt I would be attacked and my opinion ignored, instead of being welcomed and heard.

No one should have to feel like they don’t matter, especially in a place of learning.

I encourage you to take some time to examine your own biases and decide if you want to perpetuate buzzwords and discrimination, or if you will join in looking past labels and skin color to find the true diversity in us all, and treat others as you would want to be treated.

Letters Policy

Letters to the editor will be printed in the order in which they are received and on a space available basis.

The Collegian reserves the right to edit all letters for content and length.

Letters should be no more than 250 words. Letters from individual authors will be published only once every four weeks.

All letters from students should include first and last names, classification and major. No nicknames will be used. Letters from people outside the Cameron community should include name, address and phone number for verification.

Letters can be sent by regular mail, by e-mail to aggiecentral@cameron. edu or they may be dropped off at our office - Academic Commons 101 or at www.aggiecentral.com.

4

Student Life

April 13, 2015

www.aggiecentral.com

Photos by Vicky Smith

A low-impact exercise: (Left) Cameron alumna Kemice Leader learns the basics of deep water aerobics from fitness coach Susan May, who teaches Deep Water Aerobics twice a week. (Right) CU alumna Kemice Leader is upheld by a flotation belt, allowing her to breathe with ease as she swims.

Dive into water aerobics Vicky Smith

Student Life Editor @pinkwritinglady

The beach is beckoning, but Aggies can start swimming today – on campus. At 6:30 p.m. on Mondays and noon on Thursdays, fitness coach Susan May leads the Deep Water Aerobics class for Cameron students, faculty and alumni in the Aggie Rec Center pool.

The class debuted this semester and is free of charge to all who attend Cameron, as well as those who purchase a gym membership through the CU Alumni Association.

May said water aerobics is a low-impact exercise that enables people of all ages to have fun and be active without joint pain.

“For those people who don’t like that workout on land,” she said, “they can get in the water …

We go from bicycling down the pool to cross country skiing to jumping jacks.”

May said participants can use f lotation belts, kickboards and noodles; they may bring the devices in for play or to make themselves feel more comfortable in the water.

“You do not have to know how to swim because you are held up by this f lotation belt,” May said, “so you don’t have the fear, but you can still participate in the class.”

According to May, water aerobics benefits both the physical and mental health of people in various ways. She said because the exercise is low-impact, it helps those who are injured or who have

SGA weekly

Kaley Patterson A&E Editor

@KaleyKayPatt The Cameron University Student Government Association announced the runners for the 2015-2016 officer positions and presented a new legislation at their meeting on April 6.

Current SGA Vice President Nikki Kirk ran for President.

Representative Lacey Flaig ticketed for Treasurer. Parliamentarian Kelly High filed for Vice President.

Students voted for the positions

a chronic disease, such as arthritis.

“It gives them resistance to work out,” she said “but it’s easier on the joints, so it’s not going to increase their pain; it’s going to be able to hopefully decrease it to some extent and still give them strength and f lexibility.”

The exercise is also an option for those with type 2 diabetes. “[There is] less risk from complications,” she said. “Blood sugar levels improve with aerobic activity.”

Although water aerobics is for all ages, she said it could be especially beneficial to older individuals. “[It] improves quality of life and can ease the decreasing of disability,” she said, “[and it] improves or maintains bone health of post-menopause women.” on April 7 and 8 even though the contenders ran unopposed. Voting also commenced for Senator positions. Representatives Lacey Flaig, Victoria Boudiette and Treasurer Casey Meeks presented their bill, Resolution 3114009.

The legislation calls for the “establishment of a pre-professional committee for advising students interested in professional field careers.”

The resolution would establish a group of faculty to advise students who are looking to furthering their education at places of higher learning

One of May’s favorite aspects of teaching water aerobics relates to its mental health benefits.

“When a person completes a class,” she said, “overall, they feel good … Water can be soothing [and] de-stresses, so they’ve been able to quiet their minds in a way – have fun. [I am] able to see that demonstrated on their face because the expression tells everything, and it’s that feedback at the end of class -that you helped somebody. They did things they never thought they could do, and that’s rewarding.”

For those nervous to give water aerobics a try, May said they have nothing to lose.

“I’ll coach you through the class,” she said. “I give modifications where needed, so if you think you’re at one level, I’ve

and professional schooling.

Each author majors in a different form of science and is seeking more education after Cameron.

The authors found that most, if not all, of their applications require a reference from a pre-professional committee, and Cameron does not provide students with one.

Other science associated students in the SGA governing body voiced their support of the legislation.

Resolution 3114009 will go through second reading, questioning and voting at the next SGA meeting on April 13.

always discovered in all my years of teaching that everyone can do much more than they think they can.”

She said some people even exercise better in groups than solo.

“You have motivation,” May said, “and you have the group energy, so [that] kind of spurs you on.”

The water aerobics class will continue weekly through April 27, and May encourages all people to attend.

“This is a beautiful pool,” she said. “Let’s utilize it.”

In addition to water aerobics, May leads a spin class and a yoga class. For more information about May’s fitness classes, visit Cameron.edu or call the Aggie Rec Center at 580-581-5555.

2015-2016 SGA Officers President:

Nikki Kirk

Vice President: Kelly High Treasurer: Lacey Flaig

Class of 2015 raises funds for CU gift Vicky Smith

Student Life Editor @pinkwritinglady

As part of the Class Gift Campaign, the Class of 2015 is raising funds to install Elkay drinking fountains that include bottle filling stations.

According to Cameron.edu, “As each graduating class leaves Cameron University, they are asked to give to CU, leaving behind a class legacy through a class gift.”

Class gifts from previous years are all across campus, such as the clock in the MCC, given by the Class of 2010, and the picnic area for Cameron Park, given by the Class of 2012.

Director of Development Maurissa Buchwald said the students selected to be participants of the Class Gift Campaign 2015 represent various departments on campus.

“I went to department chairs and athletics and Student Government Association and said, ‘Who would be graduating in 2015 that you would nominate to be on that committee?’”

Buchwald said. “That’s how I got an initial group to email out to and tried to get input across campus.”

Once the approximately thirty students received emails, they met for breakfast to discuss gift ideas and follow-up plans to execute the chosen idea.

“I had to leave that meeting with which installation we would do,” Buchwald said. “They decided on the water installation.”

According to Buchwald, the students’ class gift compliments the theme of this year’s academic festival, Sustainability: Challenges and Opportunities.

“They really liked the fact it tied in with academic festival,” she said. “They are carrying out the initiatives of the festival.”

According to Elkay.com, the drinking fountains that

include bottle filling stations are known as EZH2O combo units and “provide a rapid fill of refreshing drinking water to quench thirst and minimize plastic bottle waste in the environment.”

Buchwald said the fountains will be branded with “Class of 2015,” giving recognition to the class’s contribution to Cameron. “[The campaign committee has] the desire to leave their stamp on Cameron,” she said, “and they want to help lead the way with other classmates to make that happen.”

The committee will raise funds for the fountains until next fall. Buchwald said they have informed members of the community and fellow Aggies, as well as participated in email marketing.

In conjunction with donating money to the Class Gift Campaign, Buchwald said students can also become members of the Cameron Alumni Association.

“What we’ve tried to do with the class campaign annually is provide really a dual opportunity for students so that they could join the alumni association and give back to the university in a way that leaves a lasting legacy for the class of their graduating year,” Buchwald said. “The benefit is really two-fold: They got to join the alumni association, and they got to give to the campaign for only $35.

“And that $15 got them their membership to the Alumni Association, and $20 towards the class campaign.”

Buchwald said the Alumni Association is also a way for students to stay connected to the university.

“We want to teach our students to remain involved in Cameron,” she said. “This is their university. Then, the giving part of the $35 is almost a little bit of an opportunity to just go, ‘I want to give back. I just received a great quality education; I had a great experience here at Cameron.’”

According to Buchwald, many charitable donors of the university are alumni.

“That’s what this is an opportunity to do for class campaign,” she said. “How do you leave your legacy, how do you stay connected to your university, and then how do we get your heart still remained tied to Cameron?”

Anyone who would like to give to the Class Gift Campaign 2015 can contact Maurissa Buchwald by calling 580-581-2612.

Photo by Vicky Smith

Sustainable fountains: Music major Thomas Hudson uses the combo fountain located in the Village.

5

Student Life

April 13, 2015

www.aggiecentral.com

A day in the life: freshman year Hafsa Farah Staff Writer

Courtesy of Madalyn Schmidt

First year of college: Freshman radiation therapy major Madalyn Schmidt moved to Lawton from Washington state to attend Cameron.

“Well, this is it, Mom,” Madalyn Schmidt said.

“I’m officially unpacked for college.”

She was in her dorm room at the Village Apartments feeling relieved that all her belongings were finally organized and she could turn her attention to getting ready for her first college classes.

The week before fall 2014 semester was a busy time for Schmidt. She and her mother had just driven down to Lawton all the way from the state of Washington.

Schmidt is a freshman at Cameron University completing her prerequisites for a B.S. in Radiation Therapy.

“I chose to study Radiation Therapy because I want to help alleviate the suffering of cancer patients,” she said.

She made the decision to attend school in Lawton because Cameron fit her goals better than any of the schools in her home state.

“Of all the schools I

researched before making my decision,” she said, “Cameron was the most affordable and provided the classes I need for my degree.”

Another reason Schmidt chose Cameron was because, of all the out of state schools, she considered it was the one that felt like the best fit.

“It’s like coming back to my second home,” she said. “I spent four years in Lawton from 2004 to 2008. When my father was in the military, we moved constantly, and Lawton, Okla. was his longest assignment. Having that familiarity with the area has really helped make my college experience easier.

“The most challenging part about my transition to college life was leaving my family behind in Washington.”

One of Schmidt’s favorite things about Cameron University is the great diversity of the student body.

“I love meeting new people from countries around the world,” she said, “and being at Cameron has already given me a lot of opportunities to do that.”

Schmidt also enjoys participating in campus events.

“One of the first events I went to on campus in the fall was the Biology Club’s beginning of the year picnic,” she said. “I met a lot of students there that I realized later were in my classes, and it was a

great opportunity to do something fun and get to know a few people before classes really got into swing.”

One of Schmidt’s favorite things about being in Lawton is the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. She loves to go hiking or driving up Mount Scott to take in the spectacular view of Lawton.

Usually, after each semester, Schmidt flies back home to Washington, but this summer she plans to stay in Lawton to take anatomy.

“I’ve heard that anatomy is a challenging course,” she said, “and I want to devote my summer to this class alone, so I can be sure to do well in it. I’m also excited to be on campus for my first summer semester at Cameron.”

Schmidt summed up what a typical day is like for her.

“I begin my day with prayer, go to class, and then spend some quality time in the library,” she said. “One of my favorite thing to do to unwind after a long day of classes and studying is to go to the gym. I really like the Zumba classes here.”

Schmidt said it’s sad she will only be in Lawton for two more years, but she plans to make the most of her time here.

“It’s really a great school,” she said, “and I’ve already made so many amazing friends.”

Dear Aggie: preparing for disasters Dear Aggie,

How should a person handle a relationship in which the other person is physically and emotionally abusive?

Sincerely, Not A Bystander Dear Not A Bystander, Relationships are tricky even when they’re considered healthy.

But when the situation turns toxic, such as the one you’re inquiring about, the best way to handle it is to get out.

Physical and emotional abuses are not justifiable actions, and the results usually occur due to underlying

disturbances.

The partner receiving the abuse is generally not the causer of the out lashes.

If you are having difficulty leaving your abusive relationship, you can reach out to trained advocates at the National Domestic Violence Hotline by calling 1-800-799-7233.

Do not be afraid to ask for help.

Remember, you do not deserve the abuse you are receiving and you are worthy of much better.

Sincerely, Aggie

Dear Aggie, I’m new to Oklahoma, and these storms and tornadoes are serious business.

What’s the best way to be prepared?

Sincerely, I Need a Thunder Buddy Dear I Need a Thunder Buddy, Unfortunately thunderstorms in Oklahoma are as common as Fast and Furious sequels, but rest assured, severe weather safety tips are on the way.

The key to overcoming anxiety

toward storms is to stay informed.

By researching how and why thunderstorms develop, you can reduce your weather willies.

Before venturing out for the day, check the local forecast to determine the threat of severe weather.

If severe storms are possible, have a safety plan handy by identifying a secure place to take shelter.

This hidey-hole might be a basement, cellar, safe room or any downstairs interior room away from windows.

If you are on campus, look for signs displaying a severe weather protection area.

While most storms will not require you to take shelter, it is wise to have a place in mind if you do need to take cover.

The key idea is to stay indoors. It may be tempting to venture out in your quest to re-create the famous kissing scene from “The Notebook,” but lightning could fry that dream.

Instead, find a friend to keep you company while you weather the storm.

Dear Aggie responses are generated in house

by Collegian editorial members and do not represent professional opinion or advice.

Tweet to @DearAggieCU.

For more information about tornado safety, visit the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at http:// emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/tornadoes/during.asp.

Tribune News Service

CORRECTIONS The Cameron Collegian erroneously stated in the story “A Day in the Life: Run with Dr. T” that Dr. Sue Tyrrell’s position at Cameron is “Associate Professor of English,” when in fact her position is “Assistant Professor of English.” We regret the error and are happy to set the record straight.

The Cameron Collegian erroneously ran the headline “New Cinderlla for New Generation,” instead of the correct spelling, which is “New Cinderella for New Generation.” We regret the error and are happy to set the record straight.

6

A&E

April 13, 2015

www.aggiecentral.com

‘Mad Men’: the end of an era Kaley Patterson

“Mad Men” has won 15 Emmys and four Golden Globes. It was A&E Editor the first basic cable series to win @KaleyKayPatt the Emmy Award for Outstanding It’s last call for the AMC Drama Series for its first four original series “Mad Men.” The seasons. The show is constantly period drama, set in 1960’s New praised for its historical accuracy, York City, focuses on advertising visuals, costumes, acting, writing agency Sterling Cooper and the and directing - all from the mind of characters drinking their way Weiner. through that pivotal time in How the scenes in each episode American history. are shot and framed brings the The critically acclaimed show is creativity of cinema to simple in its final season, which is showing television screens. The costumes, in two parts. The first series of makeup, haircuts and facial hair episodes in season seven premiered coincide with the transition and last spring, and the final episodes progression of 1960’s America began on April 5. It is essentially and practically allow audiences “The End of an Era” - with the an actual glimpse into the past. program ending and the passing of “Mad Men” characters experienced the 1960s. the deaths of Marilyn Monroe, Matthew Weiner, with the help Martin Luther King Jr. and JFK; of AMC, brought the alcoholic their grieving allowed audiences chain smokers of Don Draper, to see how those tragedies affected Peggy Olson, Roger Sterling, American citizens and the Joan Harris and Pete Campbell to ramifications of each event instead life in 2007 - just to name a few. of reading in a textbook.

Weiner pitched the Mad Men pilot The historical authenticity in to Showtime and HBO before “Mad Men” was poignant to the landing a spot at AMC; the station plot sequences in each episode, was looking to create an original which made it a real period drama. series at the time.

In addition to the genius of the The show was an instant hit. technicalities of the show, Weiner

New Release

Kaley Patterson A&E Editor

@KaleyKayPatt In a hushed voice while stroking subtle chords from his guitar, Sufjan Stevens is at his most vulnerable in his newest album “Carrie and Lowell.” His work is dedicated to his late mother Carrie and his stepfather Lowell.

Stevens’ music commonly discusses his Christian faith,

created many complex and flawed characters, the main one being protagonist Don Draper, played

by Jon Hamm, which isn’t even his real name. He stole it from a dead soldier during the Korean War in a desperate attempt to escape his povertous former life.

Don embodies the promiscuousness and uncertainty the era of the sixties possessed - wife at home in the suburbs, mistresses at his beckon call, stocked liquor bar in the office and a cigarette permanently wedged between his middle and forefinger.

New York City was his, and the world was for his taking.

Although, his character arc never allows him to overcome his problem of self-discovery.

Throughout the series, Don struggled with trying to figure out who he is, which resulted in two divorces, distant children and of course, a drinking problem.

Don’s secret identity eventually comes to light during a presentation to a client in season six - an emotional, alcohol induced confession, thus causing the partners to banish Don to take a leave from the agency to reassess

himself. Don lost the identity he created, and he returned to the drawing board.

Towards the end of the first series of episodes in season seven, Don is allowed to return to the agency, but finds what he left behind no longer exists and has start from square one.

After the premiere on April 5, Don and the rest of the agency appear to be back where they were in season one, except there are some new mustaches. The agency is doing well, everyone’s happily drinking and smoking, but once again, Don is drawn back to the past in two ways that had audiences saying, “Well, that was weird. I didn’t expect that.”

This is Don’s vice, though: getting mixed up in the past, forgetting the present and stumbling to move forward. It all go backs to his struggle with self-identity, which is looking like it will take a drastic hit during the wee hours of the series.

One aspect of the show that might foreshadow Don’s demise is the opening credits. Set to a decrescendo of violins, the soft pitter-patter of drums and strum of a bass, viewers see the silhouette

Bible stories and characters, Americana, mythology and traumatizing life events. All 13 of Stevens’ albums resonate his creativity with poetic lyrics, complex composing and a multitude of instruments.

But his newest album peeled back another layer of Stevens.

Released on March 31, “Carrie and Lowell” bares all of Stevens - thoughts of suicide, grief, uncertainty, death and coming to terms with abandonment, life and the end.

Carrie left her son and other children when Stevens was only a year old, which caused Stevens and his siblings to grow up in Michigan with their father and stepmother.

Between the ages of five and eight, Stevens visited his mother and stepfather for three summers in Oregon - the only memories he has of his distant mother.

Carrie and Lowell divorced after five years, but their marriage was a blissful moment in a tormented life. Carrie suffered from depression, schizophrenia and alcoholism. Her contact with her loved ones was irregular up to her death in 2012. Stevens’ new album is his attempt to reconcile his mother’s abandonment.

“With this record, I needed to extract myself out of this environment of make-believe,” Stevens said in an interview with Pitchfork. “It’s something that was necessary for me to do in the wake of my mother’s death - to pursue a sense of peace and serenity in spite of suffering. It’s not really trying to say anything new, or prove anything, or innovate. It feels artless, which is a good thing. This is not my art project; this is my life.”

“Carrie and Lowell” doesn’t have the big band, orchestra and choir crescendos from past albums. Stevens is a multi-

of Don walking into his office crumbling right before his eyes. He sets down his briefcase and watches his life’s work melt away.

His silhouette falls down the agency’s skyscraper, passing advertisements of scandalously dressed women, a glass of alcohol and a sparkling engagement ring. But before he makes it to the ground, audiences see the silhouette lounging on a couch smoking a cigarette.

Don already watched the identity he created go up in smoke, his alcohol consumption hasn’t decreased, he still pursues women and he already ruined two marriages. But if viewers haven’t learned anything about Don, they should know he’s a creative mind with buried troubling emotions.

Don’s character has become consistant in his actions, but what’s to come is not as predictable as the Old Fashion he orders, the cigarette in his hand and the way he tells people what to believe.

“Mad Men” shows on AMC at 10/9c on Sunday nights. The last episode is scheduled to air on May 17.

instrumental musician, but in his latest creation, Stevens simply plays his guitar and occasionally his piano, but his ghostlike voice transcends throughout the album expressing his ache and desperation to understand.

Stevens tries to grasp reality in the opening song “Drawn to the Blood” by pleading, “For my prayer has always been love.

What did I do to deserve this now? How did this happen?”

Singing about his mother’s death in “Fourth of July,” Stevens compares his mother to a dragonfly, hawk and dove while calling her his “little Versailles” and “little loon” all while coming to terms with the morbid reality of life, “We’re all gonna die.”

“The Only Thing” is where Stevens plays out his suicidal fantasies of driving off a cliff, cutting himself and gouging out various organs - all while questioning, “How do I live with your ghost?” But the seemingly soothing banjo illuminates Stevens’ savior, “Blind faith, God’s grace, nothing else left to impart.”

In “John My Beloved,” Stevens softly cries out, “Lord hear my prayer... Jesus I need you, be near, come shield me from fossils that fall on my head.” The first single off the album, “No Shade in the Shadow of the Cross,” confesses Stevens restless contemplation of death, “My assassin like Casper the ghost.

There’s no shade in the shadow of the cross.”

“Carrie and Lowell” is Stevens’ painstakingly deep, reality stricken and minimalist most successful album he ventured to create. The tracks break down multiple emotional barriers one can only build throughout time and seal together with life altering events only to be knocked down by stages of grief.

Stevens reveals himself in a way he has never done before.

Kendrick Lamar soars in ‘To Pimp a Butterfly’ that this album was “honest, fearful and unapologetic” – a quality heard from track Assistant Managing Editor one. @JJardel_Writing “Wesley’s Theory,” starts with an excerpt from a song by Jamaican singer Boris Two years after his platinum-selling second album, Kendrick Lamar proved that Gardiner, which encouraged Black pride and attempted to change the perception of a nobody killed his vibe with his new album certain racial epithet.

“To Pimp a Butterfly”.

The song then transitions into a verse any Lamar’s new album debuted at number fan would expect from Kendrick rapped over one on the US Billboard 200 with opening a beat with funk-style bass and a disco soulweek sales of 363,000 copies, streams and style feel. singles accounted for. It also debuted at the While the sound may take some getting top of the charts in England, New Zealand used to if one expects more of the good kid and Australia. from the mad city, it grows on the listener Critics such as Kyle Anderson of with repeated listens – especially within Entertainment Weekly have hailed the album as an “Oscar-worthy cinematic event,” the context of the whole album and its use while others like Spin magazine’s Dan Weiss of Lamar’s trademark sound bite samples throughout. referred to it as “mandatory listening.”

The next track, “For Free? – Interlude,” But one of the common threads critics introduces the listener to the spoken word have lauded it for has been its timelines in and jazz aspects of the album. The track the ongoing discussion of race and racism in starts with a woman dissing Kendrick the United States. over a smooth piano and trumpet sound Playing off the title of Harper Lee’s before Lamar spits a rapid-fire verse that seminal novel “To Kill a Mockingbird,” symbolically sticks up to the proverbial the title for Lamar’s third studio album Man trying to marginalize – or pimp – his potentially suggests the sinful nature of characterizing black men as gangsters rather talents.

The true launching point of the album than humans. This theme plays out through is the third track, “King Kunta.” The song, much of the album, especially in tracks like which references a slave whose story is “Wesley’s Theory,” “King Kunta” and “The the basis of the novel “Roots,” takes an Blacker the Berry.” empowering spin on the name. Indeed, this The other predominant theme in the track addresses the duality of living as a album is the shift in sound Lamar made wealthy black man in America: dominant from “good kid, m.A.A.d city” to the new like a king but oppressed like a slave. album. The previous album incorporated Musically, the track has one of the most more atmospheric beats with subtle hooks catchy and well-used bass tracks in the game reminiscent of OutKast’s mid-90s sound today with a subtle guitar track that adds an (see also “Aquemini” and “ATLiens”). This air of swagger to the track. new album, however, brings in a more earthbound sound.

His lyrical prowess shines through both “To Pimp a Butterfly” draws on a lot of in his flow and in his content that falls in the historically Black forms of performance art style of Ralph Ellison and Chinua Achebe throughout, predominantly jazz, funk and with references to the symbolism of yams in spoken word. Lamar said in an interview black culture.

Jacob Jardel

Graphic by Kaley Patterson

The rest of the album varies in style and feel, with the main theme of race and racism flowing throughout with sprinkles of the phrase “I remember you was conflicted,” a set of garnishes that becomes a spoken word poem in the closing track “Mortal Man.” Some of the tracks, when taken individually, may take some getting used to before one can appreciate them completely.

In fact, many of the tracks work best as a part of the album. However, the interludes stand out as a hallmark of Kendrick’s verbal prowess in spoken word.

The other track of note is the Grammy-

winning effort “i,” the lead single of the album. With samples of The Isley Brothers’ funk-soul classic “Who’s That Lady” and lyrics that attempt to inject a sense of redemption through self-expression, this complete track stands out as one of the album’s best. It requires multiple listens to fully appreciate its lyrical and musical nuances. “i” really acts as a synecdoche of the whole album. With its superb mix of musicality, lyrical prowess and deeper themes, the whole album truly is, as Weiss said, the “Great American Hip-Hop Album.”

7

Sports

April 13, 2015

www.aggiecentral.com

Ole Kim: Behind the mascot Jacob Jardel

Assistant Managing Editor

CU Public Affairs

Photo by Krista Pylant

@JJardel_Writing

As the Homecoming bonfire burned through the veil of night, junior business major Waheed Gbadamosi felt a different kind of heat within him.

This heat came from the Ole Kim costume, which Gbadamosi has donned for the last two years as Cameron’s mascot.

“It is very, very hot – especially during the summer,” he said. “I’m lucky that most of our games are during the winter period because it really gets hot.”

According to him, though, the heat was the least of his worries with the costume.

A trip to the Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA) Cheer Camp proved that fact.

“When I went to camp, if we combined all the mascot heads, mine weighed more than [the other mascots’],” he said. “[And] it’s hard to see.

The visibility is not perfect. I can’t see my legs.”

Despite the discomfort of the costume, Gbadamosi said he has noticed the Aggie fervor stir up within him after he attended the UCO camp.

“It has solidified my Cameron pride,” Gbadamosi said. “I’m more proud to be an Aggie than ever. If you go back and look at the history of how Ole Kim started, you

have a sense of pride. It is a big honor to be the mascot.”

However, Gbadamosi did not see himself being a mascot coming into his career at Cameron. His upbringing in Nigeria as the youngest of 16 children helped ease him into the process, though.

“It’s something that kind of came naturally,” he said.

“Coming from a large family, you have to be naturally outgoing. If you don’t speak up, you don’t eat. So you have

to remind people you’re still here.”

One thing he was unable to speak up about, though, was the identity of being Ole Kim. “The first year, very few people knew,” Gbadamosi said. “Except for my coach and the spirit team, nobody else [could know]. During my second year, a whole lot of people knew I was Ole Kim because I had to be with the cheerleaders and the student athletes.”

The one thing that he still has to keep secret is where the mascot spends its down time when he is not cheering on the Black and Gold.

“Ole Kim has his office,” Gbadamosi said, “and the office is top secret.”

However, he made no secret that his favorite Cameron tradition is Homecoming because of how clear everyone’s Aggie Pride becomes in that week.

“That is when you see the true Cameron spirit,”

Gbadamosi said. “Everyone is out, and everyone is involved and engaged. Once it’s Homecoming, you know it’s Homecoming. It’s in the atmosphere.”

However, Gbadamosi’s favorite event to be Ole Kim at happens a little later in the spring.

“My favorite event so far is always Commencement,” he said. “To be able to walk on that stage because it’s filled with so many people and emotions, to see people

moving forward with their lives is remarkable.”

From the fervor of Homecoming to the celebration of graduation, Gbadamosi said he has learned a lot about being the mascot and about the Cameron experience as a whole. He added that his time at Cameron would not be possible without all the opportunities the university offers.

“I have had the opportunity to be involved with so many things at Cameron, which has given me a lot of experience,” he said. “There are so many opportunities here, so many things you can take advantage of. It’s left to you to seize the opportunity.”

Though he is unsure of whether or not he will continue being Ole Kim into his senior year, Gbadamosi said that he learned about everything from punctuality to flexibility. One lesson transcends them all.

“The most important thing is to keep on cheering,” Gbadamosi said. “No matter how the game goes, your duty is to keep on cheering, to keep on motivating everyone and getting the crowd going.”

With this lesson in mind, Gbadamosi has one piece of advice for anybody who plans to be Ole Kim in the future.

“Put all your energy and all your effort into it,” he said.

Baseball falls to Angelo State University Haley Swinford

up to bat was Cameron Massengill who hit a double to left center to bring Tyner and Nehwon Norkeh home.

Staff Writer Cameron wasn’t able to answer ASU’s three runs.

The Cameron University baseball team wanted to start In the top of the seventh inning Angelo State ended the the month of April off with some wins going into a three game by scoring a final run. The Aggies lost 6-3 while the game series on April 3-4 against the Angelo State Rams.

Rams carried momentum into the second game of the day.

The first game was low-scoring for the Aggies, setting In the last game of the series, ASU put runs on the the tone for the series. The Aggies went down early in the board first hoping to keep their win streak going. Looking first game and were never able to get the lead. ASU earned to stay competitive, the Aggies tied up the game with a one run in the first inning to take the lead and another run hit down the left field line by Palmer to bring home Justin in the fifth inning. After the top of the seventh inning, the Winters in the fourth inning.

Aggies were down 2-0.

Angelo State scored a total of six runs in the fifth and In the bottom of the seventh inning, with two on base, sixth innings to take back their initial lead. Cameron Tyler Palmer grounded out to the pitcher with a bunt. earned one run in the seventh to make the score 8-2, but Brandon Wright bolted home on Palmers hit to score the ASU had an answer with one run in the eighth. only run in the first game. Cameron lost 2-1.

Cameron took back two runs in the bottom of the ninth To take the series, CU had to win both games on April inning to try to rally back but they would fall short losing 4.

9-4.

Angelo State came out swinging to get two runs to After losing the three game series, the baseball team begin the double header. Cameron answered ASU in the is now fourteen and nineteen overall and eighteen and bottom of the second to tie up the game at two a piece. In fourteen in conference play. They have lost their last five the bottom of the third, the Aggies brought home another run off a double by Steven Swingle to bring Wright home. games.

The Aggies have five home games remaining; their In the top of the fifth, with bases loaded, the Rams’ next home game will be a double header on April 14th at Derek Tyner swung for a single to center field to advance 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. against Southeastern Oklahoma State all the runners a base and bring Sam Kohler home.

University.

Paxton DeLaGarza f lied out to center field. Next

CU Sports Information

Student Athlete Advisory Committee hosts egg hunt Photos by Krista Pylant

Hide and seek: Children hunted Easter eggs on McMahon Field after the Lady Aggies softball team split a doubleheader with the University of Oklahoma on March 31. Cameron run ruled UCO in the first game 8-0 but fell short in the second with 6-1.

8

Sports

April 13, 2015

www.aggiecentral.com

CU Public Affairs

Breaking ground: The Cameron men’s and women’s golf teams, along with members of the Terry K. Bell Charitable Trust, revealed digitally drawn plans for the new Terry Bell Golf Center on March 25 at the Cameron House driving range. Completed construction of the indoor golf center is set for January 2016.

CU golf hosts groundbreaking ceremony Krista Pylant Sports Editor

@KristaPylant8 On March 25, Cameron University hosted a groundbreaking ceremony for the Terry Bell Golf Center at the Cameron House driving range.

Featuring bays leading to the driving range, The Terry Bell Golf Center will be an indoor facility housing technology capable of giving golfers the ability to analyze their golf swings and body movement.

The future building is named in honor of Terry Bell, a local business owner and community supporter who established the Terry K. Bell Charitable Trust shortly before his death in 2012.

Trust members Mike Mayhall, Richard Allen and Janice Bell presented a donation of $250,000 to the Cameron University

Foundation for the facility, the first gift granted by the trust.

Cameron University President John McArthur opened the proceeding by recognizing Bell’s contributions to the new center.

“As technology and training have progressed,” McArthur said, “we need to provide the facilities that help these young people meet their potential. He [Bell] had the foresight to create a trust before his death that’s going to allow him, in his legacy, to support community activities that are going to make Lawton and Cameron University a better place.”

As community members, Cameron students, faculty, staff, athletes and coaches looked on, ground was officially broken when McArthur, Mayhall, Allen, Bell and members of the men’s and women’s golf teams simultaneously hit divots on men’s golf coach Jerry Hrnciar’s cue.

For Hrnciar, seeing the indoor golf center come to fruition at Cameron is a dream come true.

Hrnciar recalled the first tournament he traveled to as a Cameron golf coach during the program’s beginning and referenced how far it has progressed since its origin.

“We went to Clarendon, Texas,” Hrnciar said, “and we didn’t have a vehicle, so we piled in my 1972 Pontiac two-door; six of us with golf bags and suitcases on a trip.

“It was quite an experience. From that, the program grew and we’ve been relatively successful.”

Hrnciar said he looks forward to using the new building, especially when the weather conditions are unfavorable for practice outdoors.

The building’s completion will designate Cameron as the second Division II campus in the nation to accommodate an indoor golf facility.

Even though the target completion date for the facility is not until January 2016, the golf center is already attracting new recruits.

Cameron women’s golfer junior Alexis Thompson said the prospect of an indoor golf facility interested her in the Black and Gold golf program long before its construction announcement.

“They’ve been talking about this facility ever since I was a senior in high school and being recruited here,” Thompson said.

“Whenever coach would talk about it, it got me excited, so to finally see it happening is a great honor.

“It will be a great recruiting device. Like I said, it wasn’t even here, and I wanted to come. So when it is here, we will get a lot of good, elite players. I already know all of us men and women will be racing up here every day to get here first, and we will wear this place out.”

Aggies win opener, fall in three to West Texas

Photos by Krista Pylant

Legging it out: (Above) Junior second baseman Macy McKay reaches to tag out a West Texas runner.

(Right) Senior left fielder Tara Martini lays down an infield single in game three of four against West Texas.

Krista Pylant Staff Editor

@KristaPylant8

The Cameron Aggie softball team opened up its series against West Texas A&M with a win, but fell in the following three games to the Lady Buffs on March 2728 at McMahon Field.

March 27

In game one, CU pitcher Kelsey Watson struck out West Texas’ first batter, but the Aggies found themselves in trouble after three straight walks allowed the Lady Buffs to load the bases. With runners in scoring position, Watson struck out the next two batters to retire the first inning.

Scoring action on both sides did not begin until the

bottom of the fourth inning when West Texas’ pitcher Rita Hokianga walked Tara Martini and Paige Daino. On a wild pitch, both runners advanced a base to set up the score. Laura Renneker singled allowing Martini to cross the plate, bringing the Aggies the lead, 1-0.

Next up, Breezy McComas doubled to center field, bringing in Daino, followed by a Sonora Zukerman single to right to score Renneker. Another wild pitch tallied a run for the Black and Gold after McComas scored unearned.

The fourth inning rally by the Ags brought CU ahead 4-0 for the shutout

by Watson who tossed 132 pitches in seven innings.

Cameron split the doubleheader with the Lady

Buffs in game two. With two outs in the first inning and runners on first and second, WT’s Lacey Taylor doubled to score two Lady Buffs. A single scored Taylor to put West Texas ahead 3-0.

WT scored one more run in the fourth inning before the Aggies answered back in the bottom of the fourth when McComas hit a homerun over the left field fence.

The Aggies had one more chance to pull ahead in the seventh inning. CU’s Carly Allerheiligen singled to second base, advancing McKay to third and bringing Zukerman home, 4-2.

With no runners in scoring position, Misty Dooley grounded out to second followed by strikeouts from Chelsea DeLong and

Martini to retire the side and give West Texas the win, 4-2.

March 28 The following day on March 28, Cameron got the bats going in the second inning to score McComas, Zukerman and Allerheiligen, putting the Aggies up 3-0.

West Texas answered back in the third with two back-to-back homers. Kaisha Dacosin singled to first and another Lady Buff homerun brought her in, inching West Texas ahead of Cameron, 4-3.

A single from the Aggies and three straight walks allowed CU to tie the game at four, but in the top of the fourth inning, West Texas’ Dacosin hit a grand slam over center field, bringing the score to 8-4.

Cameron had a chance to return the favor in the bottom of the fourth. With bases loaded and one out, McComas, who hit a homer the previous day, stepped up to the plate but flied out to right field. Zukerman grounded out following her to retire the side.

Despite having more hits, CU’s 13 to WT’s 9, the Aggies could not come up for the win and fell to the Lady Buffs in game three, 11-7.

Game four held a similar story for the Black and Gold as they fell 13-5 in five innings.

The Cameron softball team currently sits in third in Lone Star Conference standings and holds a 27-10 season record.

Next, the Aggies will play Oklahoma Panhandle State University in a nonconference doubleheader beginning at 1 p.m. on April 14 on McMahon Field.