Volume 86 Issue 7
Monday, October 31, 2011
Chuck Hagel addresses America’s future Former Nebraska Senator Chuck Hagel was the third in a series of five speakers to present information surrounding this year’s Academic Festival’s topic of Afghanistan: Its Complexities and Relevance. Hagel emphasized several topics within his presentation including the sacrifices that American soldiers have made during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, the roles that economic resources play in foreign policy situations and what Americans can do to
influence time that By Megan Bristow the nation’s he served in Managing Editor future. Vietnam. According Although he to Hagel, the men and women was not a solider by career, he of the U.S. Armed Forces have was only there for one year. sacrificed the most when it According to Hagel, even those comes to the War on Terror in that were full-time soldiers Afghanistan. He stated that did not have to spend as much there are service members who time fighting terrorism as have been sent back and forth on today’s veterans do. Although combat duty tours for the sixth he admitted that it is a service or seventh time back-to-back. member’s choice to serve in He also said that this is a major today’s military, he said that it difference from previous wars. still causes a small percentage of For example, he mentioned the the country to absorb almost all
the sacrifices of the war instead of it being divided more equally throughout the nation’s citizens. Hagel said that this war has been a learning experience for our nation, a learning experience that was never expected to last as long as it has. “This is a very expensive lesson for our country especially for the families that have lost loved ones,” Hagel said. “They are dealing with this and will be for a long time.”
Informing Cameron Since 1926 Aggie News Yellow Dress Play
See CHUCK HAGEL Page 3
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Aggie A&E Diversity Day Celebration
Courtesy CU Office of Public Affairs
Welcome handshake: Senator Chuck Hagel shakes the hand of senior History major Alex LaFave as he takes the podium at the Cameron University Theatre. Senator Hagel is the third speaker to visit Cameron University as part of the 7th Academic Festival and he concluded the series of speakers for the fall 2011 semester.
Convocation:
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Cameron honors students, faculty and staff By Ishia Saltibus News Editor
The annual Cameron University Convocation ceremony with its colorful pageantry and musical performances took place in the Fine Arts Courtyard on Oct. 14. The event, which celebrates Cameron’s dedication to academic excellence, began with the procession of the platform party, students, academic banner carriers, staff and faculty in academic regalia, followed by the presentation of colors by the Cameron ROTC Guard. Cameron University President Cindy Ross opened the ceremony with a speech about Cameron’s Photo by Ishia Saltibus growth and development. Opening Call: Provost Dr. John McArthur gives the call to Convocation. Convocation is a She said that for the fourth Cameron University tradion that celebrates academic excellence. consecutive year CU ranked third in the national list of regional universities to graduate with the lowest debt loan according to U.S. News and World Report’s “Best Colleges 2011 Ranking.” President Ross said that enrollment has increased to more than 6,300, making Cameron the university of choice. Once President Ross concluded the opening address, Provost Dr. John McArthur gave the call for convocation. According to Provost McArthur, convocation is a time to honor students, faculty, graduates and friends of the university whose outstanding achievement in teaching, scholarship and public service exemplifies the values and purposes in which the university exists. “Students at Cameron are at the core of our academic freedom and the top priority of our faculty and staff,” Provost McArthur said. “Faculty, I commend your expertise for your dedication in providing the best educational opportunity for our students.” Student Government President Cody Gardner then recognized the student body’s academic achievements. Gardner asked members of each honor society and the winners of each scholarship to stand and to be recognized. Four CU students then spoke on behalf of the student body and shared how their experiences at Cameron would prepare them for their future. Junior Psychology major Jacob Jardel, spoke about the benefits of the Cameron University Honors Photo by Ishia Saltibus Program, of which he has been a member since his Regalia: Faculty and staff in regalia wear socialize while sophomore year. He provided a humorous example of awaiting the procession. The wearing of academic regalia is what he thought the honors program was about. a tradition that started in England and the colors, trimmings “I thought it was a place were you drank wine and and patterns represent both the degree and field of learning. spoke in British and other British-like accents,” Jardel said. “Obviously this idea went away heading to later seeing the expensive lab equipment that she would use but as time stages of my life.” passed, she got comfortable with the equipment, despite the minor The second speaker Jessica Landoll a senior fires and broken glassware. majoring in Chemistry shared her experiences in undergraduate research and working with the Chair See CONVOCATION of Physical Science Dr. Danny McGuire. She recalled Page 2 her first day entering the lab, feeling intimidated and
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CrossRoads Halloween Safety
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Aggie Voices Squirrel Awareness
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October 31, 2011
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Cameron PRIDE host Candlelight Vigil By Teewhy Dojutelegan
day began and evolved,” Castricone said. “We talk about Matthew Shepard’s life and the circumstances of his death.” According to Castricone, the National Coming Out Day is a civil awareness day that celebrates individuals that publicly identify as bisexual, gay, lesbian or transgender with regard to their sexual orientation. Matthew Shepard was a University of Wyoming student who was tortured and murdered in 1998 based on his sexual orientation. His death brought
attention to the debate on hate crimes, which led to the passing of the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act. At the Vigil, PRIDE members were invited to share their Coming Out stories. About six members came forward to share their stories including an alumnus, Richard Johnson and Randy Coralles. Johnson graduated with a degree in Theater Arts in 1997. He said the biggest issue gay people face is usually hurting those people they love.
“I think the biggest issue faced is when you are constantly Staff Writer lying to the people you love,” he The Cameron University said. “When you constantly lie student organization Cameron to your friends, to your family, Pride (People Respecting you feel kind of dirty.” Individuality, Diversity and To Coralles, the way people Equality) organized a candlelight perceived him was judgmental vigil that was held on Oct. 12. rather than understanding. Jennifer Castricone, a CU “At first, I thought they were admissions counselor and kind of judging me,” he said. the PRIDE adviser, said that “Now when they perceive me, I the vigil was in honor of both want them to know that I love National Coming Out Day and differently than they do but I am Matthew Shepard Day. still a human being.” “At the event, we discuss Castricone said that the how National Coming Out organization has made an impact in the Lawton community in a number of ways. “PRIDE provides a source of support for local GLBT youth, as well as being a source of information and education for the campus,” she said. “PRIDE also provides community service through various fundraisers and volunteer opportunities off-campus.” With affect that the organization has had on the Photo by Teewhy Dojutelegan campus and Candlelight: CU PRIDE students gather for the candlelight vigil in honor of National Coming Out Day and Matthew Shepherd Day. PRIDE is a campus organization which supports and advocates gays, lesbians, bisexual the Lawton and transgendered individuals within the university.
Crossword
and Fort-Sill community, there are still a few stereotypes associated with members. Castricone said stereotypes usually included being seen as too differentiating. “Negative stereotypes are often along the lines of PRIDE members just being a bunch of “drama queens,” she said. “Also, (they are seen as) being too polarizing or political as an organization. According to Castricone, the biggest change in PRIDE since she became advisor in the spring semester of 2009 is the size of the organization’s membership. “We are slightly smaller now than when I started,” she said. “But we have huge amounts of community support and will continue to be a strong presence on campus.” It is unique that Castricone who is a straight woman, married to a straight man would be involved with a gay alliance. She said that she has been a supporter for equality and fairness for a while. “I have long been an advocate of equality and fairness,” she said. “Not just with respect to LGBT rights but also as far as the criminal justice system and other politically-charged issues. She said being a part of PRIDE has taught her lessons and has changed her. “It has changed me in ways I can’t possibly explain,” she said. “I have to say that most importantly, it has made me a better person--a more empathetic person. PRIDE meetings are at 6 p.m. on Fridays in Room 103 at the McMahon Center.
CONVOCATION continued from page 1
Across
1 Magician’s bird of choice 5 Seattle’s Best product, slangily 9 Fall faller 13 Pub picks 14 Special Forces cap 15 Fairy tale starter 16 Strike gold 18 Give __ to: approve 19 Canadian coin nicknamed for the bird on it 20 Hand-waving or fingerpointing 22 For each 23 Mythical Egyptian riddler 25 Cornfield bird 27 Smallest prime number 28 27-Across plus one, in Italy 29 Lines of theater seats 30 Goes down in the west 32 Debatable point 36 Encouragement for a matador 37 Lane straddler 39 LAX hrs. 40 Welsh dog 42 Screwball 43 Dalai __ 44 A bit amiss 46 “Milk” director Van Sant 47 Oval segments 48 Guy “nipping at your nose,” in a holiday song 52 Inquire 53 Rand McNally references 54 Takes home from the pound 57 Yogi, for one 58 Singer of the 1961 #1 song found in the starts of 16-, 23-, 37- and 48-Across 61 Can of worms, e.g. 62 “Drat!” 63 Brooks’s country music partner 64 Sources of immediate cash: Abbr. 65 Mends with thread 66 FBI personnel
Photo by Ishia Saltibus
Down
1 Author Roald 2 Assortment 3 President’s weapon 4 Station with game reports and highlights 5 Clampett patriarch 6 Onassis patriarch 7 Brink 8 Declare to be true 9 Despises 10 Boredom 11 Piece of the sky, to Chicken Little 12 Shipping giant 14 “Sayonara!” 17 It’s roughly 21% oxygen 21 Unit of parsley 23 Tinker with 24 Franks 25 Hook nemesis, for short 26 Cylindrical caramel candy 27 General of Chinese cuisine 31 Loud call 33 Auto tune-up item 34 Camp Pendleton letters 35 LAX incoming hrs. 37 Jazz licks 38 Approves
41 Amusement park racers 43 Longtime Dodger skipper Tommy 45 Brittany brothers 48 Sluglike “Star Wars” crime boss 49 Persistently bothered 50 Allegation
51 Missouri river or tribe 52 Cavity filler’s org. 54 Blissful sighs 55 Camping shelter 56 9-digit IDs 59 Deviate from a course 60 DJ’s stack
Solution on Page 8
Senior Agriculture major Elaine Harder addressed the topic of study abroad opportunities and how she and four other Cameron students spent three weeks in Brazil to learn about the culture, technology and industry of that South American country. The fourth and final student speaker was senior Accounting major Barkley Kirk, who addressed the subject of this year’s Academic Festival and the benefits to participating in campus extra-curricular activities. Once Barkley Kirk had finished his speech, President Ross took the podium and thanked those who attended and the speakers. The Cameron University Concert Band performed the alma mater, “Cameron Pride,” after which the call was given to the ROTC Guard to retire the colors. The students and faculty then recessed as the band played, “Fanfare for Tomorrow.”
Photo by Ishia Saltibus
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October 31, 2011
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CU raises awareness on Domestic Violence By Tahira Carter News Editor
In honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Cameron University, in collaboration with the Marie Detty Foundation, hosted the “Yellow Dress Performance” on Oct. 12, at the University Theatre. Deana’s Educational Theatre (DET), an organization created to remember the life of domestic abuse victim Deana Brisbois of Massachusetts, presented the emotive one-woman play to an audience of CU faculty, students and members of the local community. Fort Sill Family Advocacy Program Specialist, Leslie Watts, worked together with various local organizations to plan domestic violence awareness activities for the Lawton/Fort Sill community. The group invited Deana’s Educational Theatre because of their previous experience with the organization and the importance of its message to youths. “We have had them several times in the past and their message about domestic violence and intimate partner violence is very relevant to today’s culture,” Watts said. “We brought them back for October, which is Domestic Violence Prevention Month, so that we could spread as much awareness, in an effective
way, as possible.” DET’s message is not limited to domestic violence, however. The organization addresses various issues that affect the lifestyles of teenagers and young adults on a daily basis. “They do a variety of plays, actually one of the plays that we have going to the high schools this week as well is called “The Lesson” and that is a brand new production from the same theatre. It’s about cyber bullying, sexting and cyber stalking which is very relevant and well received in the schools,” Watts said. Although Deana’s Educational Theatre is no stranger to the Lawton/Fort Sill area, this event marks the group’s first performance at Cameron University. Student Activities Specialist Steve Sassaman said that when he was contacted about the event he seized the opportunity to help raise awareness about domestic violence. “One of the organizations that we work closely with, the Marie Detty Foundation, collaborated with Fort Sill to present this performance at all the Lawton Public Schools. They also wanted to have a performance here at Cameron so I helped arrange it,” Sassaman said. The one-hour presentation was divided in two sections. The first section was a 30-minute monologue by DET actress Amie
Cazel and the second section featured an interactive question and answer segment. French native and visitor to the Lawton area, Camille Delalande, said that she thoroughly enjoyed the performance and she actively participated in the question and answer segment of the show. “I think it was really interesting,” Delalande said. “The way it was organized, in a show with one person talking, it was as if it was really happening.” Delalande said that she appreciated the educational value of the performance and that the play provided an opportunity to witness an abusive relationship from the third person perspective and learn from it. “The young woman described her relationship from the very beginning so we could actually see where it began to go wrong,” Delanlande said. “It actually teaches us because you can learn how to react in a situation like that.” The “Yellow Dress Performance” was a free event that was open to the public. “It was an event that was open to all because domestic violence is a serious issue that everyone needs to be made aware of,” Sassaman said. Attendees received a bracelet upon entry that donned the words “Too Legit to Hit” on the outside and carried the imprint of
Photo by Tahira Carter
The Dress: Actress Amie Cazel wears the yellow dress during her performance. The “Yellow Dress” is a dramatic onewoman play since 1995 based on stories of domestic violence. the domestic abuse hotline on the inside of the band. “We put the hotline number on the inside of the band because we did not want to make the number too obvious for the abusers,” Watts said. The Marie Detty Foundation in Lawton is a private, non-profit
organization that offers a wide range of support services to men, women and children who suffer domestic violence. For further information, students may visit the Marie Detty Foundation website at www.mariedetty.com.
Students come together to worship By Elijah Morlett
more involved with reading the scripture. “Our primary focus is to encourage students to read the bible,” Assistant Managing Editor Carter said. “We want to be evangelistic in our approach and to let On Oct. 12, hundreds of students gathered at people know what the lifestyle is all about.” the Cameron University Stadium to participate in Carter led the event along with three volunteer speakers and Fields of Faith, a Christian ministry event aimed a live band. The Salt Cellar, a Christian supply center, provided at helping students become closer to their faith music equipment. with one another. Carter said that the turnout for the event was between 1,300 The event, sponsored by the Fellowship and 1,400 people. The Cameron Stadium Fields of Faith was the of Christian Athletes (FCA), was one of 39 largest and one of six in the Southwest region. Carter believes that in Oklahoma. Vince Carter, the Southwest the events help change lives positively. Oklahoma Area Representative for FCA, said “I have seen some big changes made in lives,” Carter said. “I have that the event is intended to get young Christians seen kids who have made a point to increase their involvement in FCA, their church and their overall desire to share faith with their peers” While FCA sponsors the event, many non-athletes were present. Carter said that FCA participates with local groups to get kids involved. “We had a lot of churches bring their youth groups,” Carter said. “While it is FCA sponsored, we partner with any church or youth group that wants to be a part of the experience. It is a ministry event that just happens to have the FCA title on it.” The event began in Oklahoma in 2004. It grew into a national event two years later, Photo by Megan Bristow with several states participating on the same night. Gospel: Students gather at the Cameron Stadium to share stories and According to the Fields worship. The Cameron Fields of Faith was the largest and one of the six in of Faith website, the national the southwest region.
continued from page 1
Another issue that Hagel addressed was the objective that we have hoped to achieve in Afghanistan. He asked the audience to consider the questions regarding the war in Afghanistan and future foreign policy: What is our objective? What will the consequences of failing or achieving these objectives be? Also, in relation to foreign policy and U.S. alliances to prevent future outbreaks, Hagel suggested that it would be wise for America to continue to form alliances and coalitions. These groups, he said, should be formed on the issues that countries agree upon. This will shift the focus from the nation’s disagreements with the rest of the world to the issues that we do agree upon. According to
Photo by Megan Bristow
movement encompassed 36 states and 461 fields this year. It is estimated that over 71,000 people attended one of these events around the country. Carter said that Fields of Faith is the largest FCA sponsored event. He said that each year, FCA hopes to improve on the event. “We want to keep getting better,” Carter said. “We’ve been taking suggestions and we try our best to implement them. We always want to get a feel for what people want to see done at the event.” While Fields of Faith is the major focus for fall, FCA hosts other events during the year. “We host banquets throughout the year and we run FCA camps in the summer,” Carter said. “We’re looking at ways to expand, too.” He said that FCA had plans to do more during the past year, however they were unsuccessful. The plans have not been abandoned and the organization is still intends to host them. “We want to do more with FCA,” Carter said. “We want to do a rap artist showcase and other events in the future. We want to find different ways to share the Gospel.”
Chuck Hagel addresses America’s future
Hagel, this is what America did right after World War II and it effectively promoted peace. “We were able to convince allies and were able to build relationships based around common interests,” Hagel said. Hagel said that another major influence on success in today’s realm of global politics is the economic power. “Economics drive everything,” Hagel said. “Competitive economics, competitive position is everything. A nation’s security is directly linked to and anchored by economics. If you do not have any money, you are in trouble. “ Hagel urged the audience to refer back to his question of the consequences when thinking about economics. He explained that because these foreign endeavors have been so costly,
it is important that Americans make absolutely certain the cost of the war is going to be worth the effort that is being put in to it. Additionally, former senator Chuck Hagel also emphasized the importance of making wise decisions for the future. Although it may be tempting for Americans to make decisions that are the wisest choice for the present state of affairs, he reminded the audience to make decisions that will be the best idea for the future of the nation. “Yesterday is gone. Today is gone. We do not know what tomorrow brings. Almost every vote that I cast in the 12 years that I was in the Senate was a vote for tomorrow,” Hagel said. “The votes that I made, almost every one of them had
nothing to do with yesterday. That is gone. I can do something — I can, you can and we all can — about tomorrow.” Hagel concluded by saying he hoped to provide relevant information discussing a variety of pieces of information surrounding foreign policy as it relates to Afghanistan. “I have said nothing profound here tonight. What I have said, though, are very important and relevant pieces that we all need to come to grips with and think about as we go into the next century because it is going to affect everything: our young people and our future,” Hagel said. Chuck Hagel is a Distinguished Professor at Georgetown University. He served two terms in the United
States Senate from 1997 to 2009. He authored the book “America: Our Next Chapter” and was the subject of the book “Chuck Hagel: Moving Forward” by University of Nebraska’s Professor Charlyne Berens. Hagel has also been president of McCarthy & Company, an investment banking firm, and cofounded VANGUARD Cellular Systems, Inc. Chuck Hagel concluded the series of speakers that will speak at CU during the fall semester as part of the 7th Academic Festival, Afghanistan: Its Complexities and Relevance. The festival will continue on Jan. 19, 2012, with journalist, foreign policy analyst and author Ms. Robin Wright. Tickets for this event will become available on Dec. 5.
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October 31, 2011
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Reinforcing words with actions
Awareness alone will not save lives
Elijah Morlett Asst. Managing Editor THE CAMERON UNIVERSITY
COLLEGIAN Founded in 1926 veritas sempiterna
Editorial Staff
Managing Editor - Megan Bristow Asst. Managing Editor - Elijah Morlett News Editors - Tahira Carter, Ishia Saltibus Crossroads Editor - Ashleigh Fletcher A&E Editor - Rashmi Thapaliya Sports Editor - Aaron Gill Copy Editor - Dianne Riddles Aggie Central Editors - Elijah Morlett, Mitch Watson,
Newsroom Staff
Financial Officer - Susan Hill Staff Writers - Tiffany Martinez, Teewhy Dojutelegan, Sarah Szabo, James Meeks, Amber Spurlin, Brandon Thompson, Brenna Welch Circulation Manager - Matt Thompson Advertising Manager - Megan Bristow Photographer - Kelsey Carter
Newswriting Students
James Meeks, Aaron Gill, Nicole Bucher, Cody Gardner, Scott Haney, Kelsey Carter, Teewhy Dojutelegan, Adrian Alexander, Megan Bell, Tyler Boydston, Leah Ellis, Troy Flewellen, Angela Goode, Simone Graves, Jack A. McGuire, Cassidy Morgan, Markita Nash, Lizzie Owoyemi, Miranda Raines, Dianne Riddles, Alexander Rosa-Figueroa, Thomas Smith, Lindsey Yeahquo
Faculty Adviser
Dr. Christopher Keller
About Us
The world is much bigger when you stand at your tallest and remain under a foot high. While a squirrel may be agile and have more abilities than some other animals, the squirrel’s small size makes a difference. The obstacles that are faced in the daily activities of acorn gathering and tree loving are intensified, yet still enjoyable. Simple activities make up the daily life of a squirrel. Run around, get shelter and find food. All is well until the Texas hunting season begins. Then, it becomes a game of survival where the odds are against the squirrels. Can you imagine a time where you are a small, cute rodent that is happily eating a peanut and, out of nowhere, you are blown up by a shotgun blast? This is one of the messages that squirrel appreciation groups nationwide are trying to send to the country. This month has been observed as Squirrel Awareness Month, a time for squirrel-lovers to raise concerns and appreciate their furry little friends. If you had no idea that October was Squirrel Awareness Month, then you are in the same boat as me. October is also Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Dyslexia Awareness Month, Feral Hog “Hog Out” Month, National AIDS Awareness Month, National Sudden Infant Death Syndrome Month, and National Bullying Prevention Month. So many causes have sprung in years past. Ranging from spiritual-based platforms to medical concerns, there is a designated time or organization pushing to help someone or something in the world. According to the Oklahoma Blood Institute, one blood donation can save three lives, although only 10 percent of eligible donors actually give blood. Both Cameron University’s Student Housing
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Our Views
The opinions expressed in The Collegian pages or personal columns are those of the signed author. The unsigned editorial under the heading “Aggie 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. 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.
and ROTC have utilized volunteers to get individuals to donate blood. The local Marie Detty Youth and Family Service Center, a non-profit that provides services such as Youth and Women’s shelters, needed to redo a playground that the children in the shelter actively use. CU’s Sociology Club donated supplies and labor to help the organization. Last month was Ovarian Cancer Awareness month. According to the Ovarian Cancer National Alliance, this cancer causes an average of over 14,000 deaths per year. The local chapter of Sigma Alpha Omega hosted events to raise ovarian cancer awareness during September. The local Alpha Phi chapter hosts a formal every year known
as the “Red Dress Gala,” raising funds and awareness for heart disease in women. The Alpha Phi Foundation pushes for studies on heart diseases and donates the Heart to Heart grant that funds research and educational programs. Each of these endeavors only covers a tiny fraction of the many causes that exist in the world. This puts a shift into the perspective of support: What does it mean when someone says, “I support this issue?” This world, whether or not we realize it, thrives on community service. So many positive events occur with the help of volunteers and donations. The extra mile taken to truly being involved in philanthropy aids millions of individuals around the world. So, if you say, “Support the
Troops,” go beyond wearing a yellow ribbon. Operation Homefront and the Yellow Ribbon Fund could use help in aiding our service members returning home from war. If you want to help those affected by cancer, form a group for the annual Relay for Life or the Spirit of Survival events. Both events raise funds to aid cancer research and education. If you do not want squirrels to get blown up, advocate for squirrel safety next October, or maybe every day until the next Squirrel Awareness Month. The world can thrive on volunteerism and philanthropy. It is time for more people to go beyond just saying they support a cause. Go out and save or help a life. In the end, it will only benefit the future for all.
Oliver takes no offense to the intruder
The official student newspaper of Cameron University, The Cameron Collegian is available each Monday during the year. It is printed by the Edmond Sun via the Duncan Banner.
Letters 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 collegian@cameron.edu or they may be dropped off at our office - Nance Boyer 2060 or at www. aggiecentral.com.
Photo by Kelsey Carter
Endangered: This squirrel lives a seemingly carefree life but that life could be put in danger during the hunting season. Different awarness organizations, such as Squirrel Awareness, have been created to prevent danger to these animals but, for these programs to be effective, it is going to take more than simply joining a group.
Rachel Engel Staff Writer When I brought my daughter home from the hospital, I was worried about a number of things, like my parenting abilities, if I had enough stamina to keep up with a newborn by myself with my husband deployed and finishing 12 hours of school without pulling my hair out. See, plenty of worries. My biggest concern, however, was how my first baby was going to react to my new daughter. And, by first baby, I of course mean my 5-year-old Chihuahua/Pomeranian puppy, Oliver, who has never been very accommodating to anyone with a pulse, other than our immediate family. No, I was not without precedent to be concerned as to how he would react to a newborn. Before becoming pregnant, I tested his temperament out on a friend’s 6-month-old baby, and by the end of the afternoon, Oliver was on the back porch, scratching and clawing at the back door, desperately wanting to rip the face off the obviously threatening infant.
Insert concern. But, despite ample evidence that adding another branch to our family tree might be a bit of a problem for Oliver, Sydney was created and, unbeknownst to him, my dog’s life was forever changed. I did my best to prepare myself, and him, for the momentous change. I read several books on how to introduce your dog to a new baby, and planned to employ several techniques upon her arrival. I also made sure not to make the same mistake as a couple I recently saw in the news, who bought a baby doll to acclimate their dog to the impending arrival, and played tug-of-war with it… and, in turn, the dog wanted to play tug-of-war with the baby, which was not the response the couple was hoping for. However, even with as much information as I had armed myself with, and no matter how many heart-to-heart talks I had with
Oliver, I was still terrified to see his reaction to the beautiful tiny thing I had created—because needless to say, if faced with a choice, Oliver was out, and Sydney was in. My parents, who Oliver adores, and the feeling is mutual, had already assured me they would be more than happy to take Oliver, in the event that it was unsafe to keep him in our home, though the thought devastated both my husband and I. Oliver was our first baby; we rescued him from a shelter when he was only two months old, and after we had only been married for three months. He bonded us together, and made our first house on the military base seem much more warm and inviting, which is hard to do in military housing. Giving him up would be excruciating, but, again, Sydney came first. But, something miraculous
Photo by Rachel Engel
His new sister: Oliver may not have been cordial to the test baby that he was introduced to, but he adores Sydney. Although Oliver lost some of the attention, he fell in love with Sydney.
happened on that first day I brought her home from the hospital. Oliver fell in love. Where normally the introduction of a new person into the house is cause for him to fly into a fit of rage and channel his inner Cujo, he instead stood up on his hind legs to get a better look at his new sister. He sniffed the blanket we gave him that had previously been wrapped around her, and wagged his tail. And, craziest of all, when she later gave one of her what has come to be signature wails, he whimpered. Yes. He actually whimpered, like he was concerned about her well-being. I was shocked, and incredibly thankful. That is not to say I let him baby-sit her, or anything insane like that. I am always in the room when he is near her, because things happen, personalities shift, and dogs have bad days just like people do, so I would never leave anything to chance. But, so far, he has been nothing but loving and accepting toward his new sister, which has alleviated so much inner tension for both my husband and I. I am not sure why he was so eager and quick-to-accept Sydney. Maybe he instinctively knew that she was a creation of two people he already loved, or maybe she smelled like us, which gave her an edge up on most people who enter his domain. Whatever the reason, I am pleased to say that Sydney already has her first playmate, and Oliver has made a lot of progress in allowing the new baby to share his space without wanting to mutilate her. Whew.
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Aggie A&E
October 31, 2011
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Cultural groups on campus and in the community participate in the Diversity Day
Photos Courtesy of the Office of Public Affairs
Colors of cultures: Cameron students, faculty, staff members and Lawton community members gather to celebrate the diversity on campus. The Diversity Day kicked off with parade of nations at noon and continued through the afternoon at MCC ballroom. Cultural performances and food from prepared by different student organizations were the main attractions of the event.
By Rashmi Thapaliya A&E Editor
Cameron University consists of a diverse group of students, both national and international, who represent different student organizations on campus. Several of these student organizations participated in the Diversity Day Celebration on Oct. 18, at the McMahon Centennial Complex (MCC).
The celebration began with the Parade of Nations at noon. CU Career Services Coordinator Jacob Johnson was the coordinator for the Diversity Day activities this year. Johnson said that everyone was encouraged to participate in the parade and to wear his or her national costumes. “We started the parade at noon which made a loop around campus,” Johnson said. “Due to
Photo courtesy of the Office of Public Affairs
Good food: Participants try different types of food during the Diversity Day. Student organizations on campus offered a variety of food representing their cultures during the event.
the windy weather conditions, the majority of the participants could not wear their national dress.” Johnson said that the Office of Student Development planned the celebration with the help of the Multicultural Committee. “We started planning for Diversity Day as soon as school started in the fall,” Johnson said. “The committee contacted advisers of various student organizations on campus to inform them about the celebration during the second or third week of the semester.” Various student organizations had booths and provided information about the organizations and samples of different cultural food. “There were 13 information tables in the MCC,” Johnson said. “Along with different oncampus organizations, there was also a table offering henna tattoos to students and an offcampus organization, Link/ NPA had an information table as well.” Kyla Hoggard, Heartland Nomad for Link/NPA, said that the organization would show a film about North Korean human rights in the MCC ballroom
after the celebration. “We set up this information booth so that we could let the students know about our organization and also inform them about the movie we are going to show after the Diversity Celebration,” Hoggard said. “I am also having a great time here enjoying the diverse food and cultural performances.” Johnson said that the student organizations participating in the celebration were provided with funds to buy necessary items for the food preparation. “Student organizations willing to participate should apply mentioning the list of items and amount they need to spend for the food,” Johnson said. “After the applications are approved the organizations are provided with the necessary funds.” During the celebration, the members of the different organizations presented their own cultural songs and dance as entertainment. The off-campus belly dance group, Abhava also provided entertainment. Brittiany Kaywaykla, a senior Psychology major, helped in the henna tattoo booth. “I am trying to help in the
henna tattoo booth today and I also got a tattoo here,” Kaywaykla said. “I also tried the food from different student organizations, which is great.” Johnson said that this was the first time the celebration was at the MCC Ballroom. “Since it is October, there is a possibility of bad weather,” Johnson said. “An indoor venue keeps us on the safe side and I am very pleased with the turn out that we had.” Chidi Ewelike, a sophomore Interdisciplinary Studies major, enjoyed the cultural performances in the celebration. “I am participating in the Diversity Celebration for the first time,” Ewelike said. “I think this celebration is culturally informative, which broadens our knowledge of different cultural groups on campus.” Johnson said that the Diversity Day Celebration is a great occasion for students to become aware about different cultures and groups on campus. “The event is open for everyone,” Johnson said. “It is an opportunity for Cameron students to be exposed and aware of different cultures on campus, both local and international.”
Cameron Civic Symphony struggles for recognition By Alexander Rosa-Figueroa Newswriting Student At Cameron University, students may attend band concerts, listen to the choir or even watch a soloist perform. However, students may not be aware of the orchestral form of performance that is available to them. The Cameron Civic Symphony is a campus ensemble with an emphasis on stringed instruments: violin, viola, cello and bass. The group welcomes all players, whether the musician is an enrolled music major or someone who just enjoys playing. Musicians of varying ages are welcome as well, with both junior high students and retirees attending rehearsals. According to Assistant Professor of Music and the Director of the Symphony, Kirsten Underwood, the group not only represents the community of Lawton, but it also encompasses the Southern corner of Oklahoma. She said that musicians from Altus have driven here to play with the group. “It really serves as a community orchestra for Southwest Oklahoma,” she said. The Symphony plays music that is accessible for any musician wanting to join. The group plays a wide range of styles from classical to rock-androll and occasionally collaborates with the choir to perform
Photo Courtesy of Music Department
Civic Symphony: The Cameron Civic Symphony is a campus ensemble with an emphasis of stringed instruments. It serves as a community orchestra for Southwest Oklahoma. operatic pieces. In addition to style accessibility, the Symphony also plays pieces suited for the varying skill levels within the group. Underwood said that she sought out pieces appropriate for all players, from the junior high students to the college-age music majors. “I pick a repertoire that is challenging, but not too challenging,” she said. Cameron has had an orchestra since 1925, though students might not be aware of the group’s existence. According to Underwood, the Orchestra has a long history of being overlooked. “It is an unknown tradition,” she said. “Few people really
know about it.” The Symphony rehearses for the first eight weeks of each semester before performing two public concerts: one on campus and one off campus. When the Symphony plays off campus, it usually plays at retirement homes or veterans centers. This semester the Symphony played on Oct. 25, at Ten Oaks Retirement Community. The Symphony’s on campus concerts will resume in the spring semester with their first recital on March 7. The Symphony will also perform a concert version of Henry Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas in the same month on a date that has not yet been announced. It is within these concerts
that the Symphony further works in the spirit of community for Southwest Oklahoma, collaborating with other music groups on campus and in town. For their March 7 spring recital, the Symphony will work to play with the MacArthur High School Orchestra. Underwood said that this
high school collaboration would not be the first. “Just last year we played with the Lawton High Orchestra,” she said. For the second spring concert, the Symphony will be working with the Cameron choir to perform the whole range of Purcell’s opera. The inclusion of other musical groups does not apply to only concerts, though. Despite an emphasis on strings, musicians of other disciplines wanting to join are also welcome for every rehearsal. Underwood said that she would work towards harmony between the differing instruments, making a call for wind players to come and join the Symphony. “I will find music we can both play, string and wind players,” she said. The Cameron Civic Orchestra meets from 7 to 9:30 p.m. on Tuesdays in room 135 of the Music Building.
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Aggie Sports
October 31, 2011
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Volleyball hoping for post-season play By Brandon Thompson Staff Writer
The Cameron University volleyball team entered the 2011 season with high expectations. As the regular season winds down, the Aggies have an opportunity to reach their preseason goals. The Lady Aggies have set their eyes on reaching postseason play since early in the year. Head coach Doug Tabbert knew that his Aggies would have to make big strides on last year’s disappointing season to make this happen, and his high expectations are paying off. CU has worked its way into seventh in the conference standings, which is good enough for the team to make a coveted appearance in the conference tournament. “The top eight teams make the conference tournament and right now we are seventh,” Tabbert said. “We are helping ourselves, but we are not in yet.” The Aggies have two weeks remaining in conference play and Tabbert said that the team would still have to play well to make the tournament. “It is one of those things where we could move up or down a couple spots pretty easily,” Tabbert said. The upcoming conference games are important for the Aggies if they want to reach their tournament goals. Tabbert said he thought the remaining home games were a main ingredient in the team’s recipe to make it to the LSC Tournament. “We play two more at home
Photo by Kelsey Carter
There’s the set, and spike: The volleyball team lines up for team introductions and the National Anthem at a recent match held in Aggie Gymnasium. The volleyball team has been working hard to rise above the expectations set before them in pre-season polls. and those are important to win because they are opportunities to win in a familiar setting,” Tabbert said. “It is always advantageous to play at home.” Although Tabbert acknowledges that his team needs to take the next two home games, he also said that playing well on the road would play a big part in their march to the tournament. “We have played some solid matches on the road this year,” Tabbert said, “but a win is a win and a loss is a loss no
matter where you play at, and it impacts your standings.” In his first season as head coach, Tabbert has seen his team make massive improvements across the board. Tabbert said that the community and other coaches have given him lots of positive feedback about the way his team is playing. Tabbert said that he did not know how his team would respond to the high expectations he had going into the season.
“I felt like the expectations I had for our players are higher than what they have had and I didn’t know how they would respond to that,” Tabbert said. Tabbert said that his squad responded to his challenge and competed at a high level in a big way. “I think evidence of that can be found in the way we are playing this year compared to last year,” Tabbert said, “and how we are competing against teams that Cameron hasn’t been able to compete with in the past.”
The last couple of weeks of the season will be important to the direction of the program. Tabbert said that the team was heading in the right direction and that he is looking forward to seeing how his team responds to the pressure. “I think we are definitely making progress; we are being competitive against a lot of different schools in the conference,” Tabbert said. “I think we are heading in the right direction.”
Women’s basketball gears up for season opener By Sarah Szabo Staff Writer
The Cameron University Lady Aggies basketball team’s first game of the year is an exhibition match slated for Nov. 1, against Texas Christian University, in Fort Hood, Texas. The Lady Aggies coach Tom Webb said that he is excited about their prospects for the season. “I like our team,” he said. “It’s by far the most talented team we’ve had in the four years I’ve been here.” Coach Webb said that the Aggies have a formidable group of returning players this year— players that have already spent a season working together and learning to cohere as a functional team unit. “As far as tightness goes, I think we have a good chance,” he said. “We want to get up and down, we’re going to play fast,” Webb said. “We certainly feel that we have the skills and talent to play fast, to press a little bit, shoot the three and go inside a little bit. So yeah, we’re going to play as fast as we can.” According to Webb, his team is equipped with a trio of notable veteran players. One of the returning players is last season’s newcomer of the year, Sabelle Diata. Diata, a 6’1” forward from Senegal, who was an All-American at Northeastern Junior College in Sterling, Colo., before arriving to play at Cameron last year. Also returning is sophomore Alexis Williams, a junior guard from San Antonio who averaged 14 points a game, last year. Webb said that the team now has the talents of Julie Paunovic, an Australian 6’1” forward who transferred from Rutgers, to round CU’s roster. “Those three kids are certainly going to be carrying the load,” Coach Webb said. “But
we have nine returners, which should help as a whole,” he said. “Should be good.” Webb said that the wealth of the returning players might prove to be a key aspect of the team’s overall strategy over the course of this season. “This is the first time we’ve really had as many returners as we’ve had that have played a lot,” he said. “You know, we’ve got three starters that returned, almost four starters, and it’s the first time we’ve had that.” Webb said that as with all college sports, recruitment is an important and essential aspect of building and maintaining a competitive team. “We’ve had great success,” Webb said. “And the thing for us is that we’ve been needing to build, and build, and build. But it’s been going very well.” Webb said that he gives credit for good recruitment this year to the quality of the Cameron campus itself, and the support he and his program have garnered within Cameron’s athletic community. “It’s been really good,” he said. “President Ross and our athletic director Jim Jackson have done a great job of helping us out with resources. The whole LawtonFort Sill community has been great,” Webb said. “And I have no complaints.” Webb said that even after a
Photo courtesy of Sports information
Take it to the top of the key: The women’s basketball team is hard at work preparing for the first time they hit the hardwood this season. The team had a record of 13-15 last summer off, the team has been quick to get back into winning shape—a process he’s been facilitating through rigorous strength and conditioning drills. “They’ve been working very
hard all autumn,” he said. Webb said that he hopes to conquer once the season begins in earnest at the team’s first home game against Barclay College on Nov. 15, and three
days later when the team will dive headfirst into fierce competition at the Colorado State University Pueblo Classic in Pueblo, Colo., slated to begin on Nov. 18.
October 31, 2011
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Aggie Sports
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CU student gets an invitation to Vegas By Thomas Smith News Writing Student
Going to a national tournament of any kind is an achievement by most standards. Going to a national tournament two times in as many years is a testament of commitment, skill and dedication. Anthony Tiddark-McDaniel is a senior Mathematics Major and Vice President for Sigma Tau Gamma Fraternity here at Cameron University. Last year his 9-ball team went to the American Poolplayers Association (APA) national tournament held in Las Vegas. This year he has earned another spot at APA nationals for 9-ball singles. This means it will be every man for himself, no team play allowed. “This will be my second time going to nationals. The first time I went it was with my 9-ball team. We didn’t do so great but I played the way I always try to play, which is to the best of my abilities. This time I’m going to nationals for 9-ball singles,” TiddarkMcDaniel said. To play at an APA national tournament TiddarkMcDaniel had to qualify at a regional tournament held in Oklahoma City. Regional tournaments are divided into tiers depending on skill level. Tiddark-McDaniel was able to win in his tier despite being the lowest level able to play in it. “I qualified for nationals by playing in the regional tournament that was held in Oklahoma City. I played in the black tier which is made up of skill levels 6, 7, 8 and
Photo by Thomas Smith
This is how you shoot a bank shot: Senior Mathematics major Anthony Tiddark-McDaniel will be heading to the APA National tournament in Las Vegas in April. Tiddark-McDaniel has been to the tournament once before this year. 9. A winner out of each tier is invited to nationals. I am a skill level 6, not a high level shooter but I’m getting there,” Tiddark-McDaniel said. If he wins the national tournament, TiddarkMcDaniel leaves with a trophy and up to $15,000. However holding the title does have other perks. “If I win the national tournament I will receive a 5-foot trophy and $15,000 in prize money. Also, bragging rights for the year,” he said. Tiddark-McDaniel was drawn to playing pool because of the geometry. Billiards is about being able to move the cue ball around the table and leave it where you need it. He is glad to put his math skills to work on the table. “My favorite thing about pool is that it is a game of angles and trying to distort those angles to move the
cue ball where you need it for the next shot,” he said. “So geometry is involved which interests me since that involves a little bit of math.” Tiddark-McDaniel puts his math skills to use on the pool table during every game. The markings on the table help him to gauge exactly where to shoot the cue ball in order to get the angle he’s after. Understanding of geometry also helps Tiddark-McDaniel to turn blocked shots into 9-ball wins. “My major in mathematics helps me in the game,” he said. “If you notice that on every pool table there are diamond markings along the rails of the pool table. You can actually use those markings to make bank shots and also accomplish kick shots when hooked or blocked by an opponent’s ball.” Being that it’s Tiddark-
McDaniel last year in college he’s been thinking about his future as an amateur pool player. He is planning on playing in more tournaments to try and get an invite to the APA Pro-Open tournament. He will have his first chance to play for an invite at his appearance at the 9-ball national tournament. “I am an amateur pool player, but I’m hoping to take my pool career to the next level which is becoming a professional. At nationals I’m actually going to play in some mini tournaments and if I win one of those I will receive in invite to a Pro-Open tourney that is also in Las Vegas,” Tiddark-McDaniel said. Tiddark-McDaniel is going to nationals this coming April and said he hopes to come home with a Pro invite and the prize money. If he does win the tournament Tiddark-
McDaniel plans on donating part of his winnings to various charitable organizations. “If I win, I plan on donating $2,500 to the Gamma Rho Foundation, and putting $2,500 towards Books For Kids, my fraternity’s philanthropy,” TiddarkMcDaniel said. It seems that TiddarkMcDaniel could be making several trips to Las Vegas in the years to come for various tournaments. According to him it is a great city with lots to do, although it can get crazy. “Vegas is an awesome city, there is a lot of thing to do if you’re over 21 and walking the strip is crazy. Vegas is one of the few place I know of where you can walk around with an alcoholic beverage and not get a public intox,” TiddarkMcDaniel said.
Athlete spotlight: Freshman Kelle Carver
Photo courtesy of Sports Information
Carver for the block: Freshman Kelle Carver gets set to pass the ball earlier this season. Carver has been an asset to the Aggies thus far and is hoping for post-season play.
By Jack McGuire
News Writing Student Kelle Carver, freshman right side hitter for the Cameron University volleyball team, has proven that she is ready for collegiate play. Carver was a four-year letter winner at Shawnne Mission High School in Shawnee, Kansas. Carver was also a three-time allleague selection and a three-time all-metro selection. This past summer she made the decision of playing collegiate volleyball at Cameron University after much contemplation of other schools. The volleyball career of Carver started when she was in seventh grade. During her seventh and eighth grade years she would play club volleyball during springs and summers. When fall came around she would of course start playing for the school. When she began high school not much changed for Carver. Even though Carver’s focus was more toward her school’s team, Carver was still
involved with club volleyball as a member of the Asics MAVS. Carver helped the club reach the junior national championships each of her four years. Therefore, Cameron gained a very experienced player. One that had played year-round volleyball for six years. Why did she choose Cameron? This is one question that people may ask when seeing such an impressive player. Carver went through quite a bit when figuring out her perfect school. While she was being recruited, current Cameron University Head Volleyball Coach Doug Tabbert was an assistant at the University of Nebraska at Kearney. UNK recruited Carver during her senior year and she even considered attending the school. However, Carver made her decision too late because UNK ran out of scholarships. Now pressed for time to find a school Carver was unsure of what school to attend. Well when Tabbert was hired by Cameron to be the head coach Carver saw
that and started looking into the possibility of Cameron being her school of choice. Carver knew Tabbert was not only an exceptional coach but teacher as well. On June 8th, Carver made the final decision and signed with the Aggies. With Cameron coming off of a nine-win season, Carver knew she needed to make an impact right away for the school to have success. Through the first six games of the season the Aggies started fairly slow with a record of 6-5. Carver and the team then attended the University of Texas Permian Basin Tournament from September 30 through October 1. On the first day Carver stayed consistent and Cameron won each of their matches against Fort Hays State and Oklahoma Panhandle State. On day two things would change for Carver. On this day Carver showed how large her talents really are. At the end of the day Cameron won both of their
matches against Southern Arkansas and Texas Permian Basin to win the tournament. Against SAU Carver posted twenty-six kills with a .615 hitting percentage and in the next game against UT Permian Basin Carver had thirty kills, a single-game school record for Cameron. The result of such a dominant performance was Carver being named tournament Most Valuable Player. Carver was happy with the honor but did not think much about it during the tournament. “I actually did not find out until the Tuesday following the tournament,” Carver said. “I just wanted to perform well in the tournament in order to help the team win and it’s cool that I was able to perform that well.” Coach Doug Tabbert knew
that Carver had talent. When coaching her he has enjoyed the contributions Carver has made but also likes the challenge of coaching such a young player. “It’s enjoyable because I appreciate the various contributions that she makes. She dose a lot of good things for us, and I enjoy watching her play when she has things working well,” Tabbert said. “At the same time, it can be a little challenging because—as in the case of any young player— you see what you think is her ultimate potential and you want her to play at that level as soon as possible.” Carver has helped Cameron University volleyball improve over last season in talent and record as only a freshman. Cameron University volleyball has a bright future with Carver on the team.
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CROSSROADS
October 31, 2011
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Trail of Fear haunts Oklahomans By Brenna Welch Staff Writer
This Halloween will mark the 14th season for Lawton’s Trail of Fear. The Trail of Fear Haunted Scream Park is the largest haunt in Oklahoma. According to various websites, it is also the scariest haunt in the state. The owner, Bob Wright, said that he seeks to provide an enjoyable and safe time for everyone that comes out. Every year new attractions are added to the park and this year a fourth attraction, The Crispy Family Carnival has been added. The 2011 park also includes The Trail of Fear Halloween Midway, Boo House BBQ and The Trail of Fear Apothescary. The Crispy Family Carnival is the newest main attraction in the park. Modeled after a
Photo Courtesy of Trail of Fear
Blood Bath: A bathtub full of fake body parts and blood sits vacant waiting to creep out Trail of Fear costumers. The Lawton, Oklahoma Trail of Fear is in its 14th season. classic sideshow, it features performers from all over the state. Two different shows are on rotation with five
By Crystal Carr
to six performances every night. According to the park’s website, “The Trail of Fear Halloween Midway includes Live Zombie Target Practice, Severed Head Toss, and Bone Throwing games to help prepare you to fight off the creatures on the Trail of Fear.” Boo House BBQ gives park attendees the chance to try smoked BBQ and other dishes. The Trail of Fear Apothescary features souvenirs including t-shirts, jewelry and “other things that might make your skin crawl,” according to the website. Three of the main attractions include The Trail of Fear, Cirque de Morte and The Voodoo Bayou. Each attraction has something
different for attendees. The Trail of Fear is a classic haunted attraction and it includes vampires, zombies and other usual Halloween characters. The Pyramid of Doom and the Fantasy Forest are additional parts of The Trail of Fear. “The Trail of Fear includes scares from all sorts of historical scary things. It is a traditional haunt,” Wright said. Cirque de Morte is a 3D haunted attraction with a real maze. The scary clowns within the maze make it more difficult for people to make it through. The park also includes a haunted hayride that is called the Voodoo Bayou. According to the park’s website, “Fiendish denizens of the dark lurk around every turn, watching your every
step, and waiting for the right moment.” Wright said, “The Voodoo Bayou is a single theme ride about inbred people that live on a bayou and eat trespassers.” The Trail of Fear employs a cast and crew of over 100 people from Oklahoma that inhabit and perform in all parts of the park. Over the course of the season, The Trail of Fear sees tens of thousands of attendees from all over this part of America. Being such a large park, with various attractions and high ratings draws people in from out of state. The park management urges parental guidance. Ticketing information is available on the park’s website at http://www. trailoffear.com/
Photo by Ashleigh Fletcher
Staff Writer
Last year, the Lawton Police Department reported 62 incidents of crime during October. John DeBoard, Director of Public Safety at Cameron University, said students should follow his tips so they will not get more tricks than treats. DeBoard said that when attending Halloween parties, students should beware of spiked drinks. “If someone is serving beverages without the original containers, try to observe the person making the beverages,” DeBoard said. He also said that it is better for students to know the person who is serving them rather than trusting a stranger with their health. According to DeBoard, the same rule applies to trick-ortreating. Packaged candy is safer than homemade candy from a stranger. “If it is homemade, closely examine it before consuming it,” DeBoard said. “It is best for children to eat the candy once they are home so parents can examine it.” DeBoard said that trick-or-treating can also put a student’s vehicle at risk. It is best to park in well-lit areas. Students should also keep their valuables out of sight to avoid a car break-in. According to the FDA, children and parents should be selective when dressing up for trick-or-treating. The FDA suggests that costumes should be fire-resistant and reflective so children can avoid accidents. DeBoard said that wearing bright colors will work if a reflective costume cannot be found. According to DeBoard, the safest option is to trick-ortreat in safe houses: a contained environment with adult supervision. Every year many local churches hold safe houses for Halloween. On Halloween, the safety of children is always a primary concern. Many strangers wear masks and costumes and not everyone is who they appear to be. Although, when parents and students use sound judgment, Halloween can be spooky, safe and fun. Photo by Ashleigh Fletcher