dallas hall d e c e m b e r 1, 2014 | 7:00 Pm
monDAY
December 1, 2014 MONday High 43, Low 30 TUEsday High 55, Low 47
VOLUME 100 ISSUE 41 FIRST COPY FREE, ADDITIONAL COPIES 50 CENTS
NEWS Briefs World BERLIN — Germany’s president is considering awarding a posthumous medal to a young woman killed after defending two teenage girls from male harassment. KABUL, Afghanistan — Taliban suicide attackers killed the South African leader of a foreign aid group, his son and daughter and an Afghan worker in an assault on the agency’s Kabul offices, authorities said Sunday, as the city’s police chief resigned in the wake of the latest insurgent attack there.
National CHICAGO — Authorities say a 22-year-old woman died a day after she was shot inside a Nordstrom department store in Chicago during Black Friday shopping. FERGUSON, Mo.— Ferguson police Officer Darren Wilson did not receive a severance package when he resigned over the weekend, the St. Louis suburb’s mayor said Sunday. Wilson, 28, won’t receive any further pay or benefits, and he and the city have cut their ties, Mayor James Knowles told reporters a day after Wilson tendered his resignation, which was effective immediately.
Texas RENO — A Texas hamlet shaken by its first recorded earthquake last year and hundreds since then is among communities now taking steps to challenge the oil and gas industry’s traditional supremacy over the right to frack. The U.S. Geological Survey confirmed that Reno, a community about 50 miles west of Dallas, had its first earthquake.
Courtesy of SMU
Students hold on to candles and sing along to Christmas carols at last year’s Celebration of Lights.
All is calm, all is definitely bright A preview of what’s to come at tonight’s Celebration of Lights
Daniela Huebner Contributing Writer dhuebner@smu.edu There may not be a partridge in that tree, but Dec. 1 at 7 p.m., that tree will light up the Dallas Hall Lawn in a spectacular display. Celebration of Lights is one of SMU’s oldest and beloved traditions. This year marks the event’s 41st annual celebration. David Lee, president of Student Foundation, said that the Celebration of Lights is more than just an event; it’s an opportunity for the community
to gather together and remember what’s important during the holiday season. “It really brings the whole campus together,” Lee said. Celebration of Lights kicks off the winter holiday season by lighting the university Christmas tree and the main quad’s surrounding trees. The community enjoys live performances, Christmas singalongs and a reading of “‘The Christmas Story” by SMU President R. Gerald Turner. “Regardless of what grade you are in or what organization you are a part
of, Celebration of Lights is a time for everyone to celebrate the joy of the holiday season together,” said Mallory Massa, entertainment coordinator for Student Foundation. Celebration of Lights first began in 1973 when Mike Miller, one of the first members of the newly founded Student Foundation, came up with the idea. Only 5,000 lights were initially used, but over the years, Student Foundation has built up enough funding through the school, so this year more than 138,000 lights will light up
the night. “It’s so exciting seeing the lights go on all at once,” said Kelsey McLaughlin, campus events vice-chair. “The entire Dallas Hall quad gets lit up, and it’s just so beautiful.” Each year during the celebration, Student Foundation honors a charity. This year, the group will sponsor Dallas CASA, an organization that helps children affected by domestic violence. Through CASA’s angel tree program, 82 sponsored children will receive holiday gifts, toys and clothes from different
organizations and Residential Commons on campus. But that’s not all Celebration of Lights has in store. More than 80 gallons of hot chocolate, 60 gallons of hot apple cider and 40 dozen goodies from Tiff ’s Treats will be served at the event. Ten performances are scheduled for the evening, including three musical groups, three duets and three soloists. The songs, however, are not released until the day of the event. “The songs we choose really
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COMMENTARY
Sorority members remain silent, exclusionary brandon brigham Contributing Writer bbrigham@smu.edu “I’m very sorry to have to do this but after speaking with my chapter president and advisor it has come to my attention that chapter president is the only person allowed to speak on behalf of the chapter and our opinions about recruitment. I was not aware of this and I’m very sorry I cannot participate in this article.” I received the above email Nov. 11 at 3:32 p.m. from a recruitment chair for SMU’s Alpha Chi Omega sorority chapter, just hours before we planned to conduct an interview about SMU’s new Spring ’15 Panhellenic recruitment schedule. I had also scheduled interviews with the recruitment chair from Chi Omega, as well as sorority members from Kappa Kappa Gamma, Delta Gamma and Alpha Chi Omega. Every one of them canceled. The reason they all gave? Speaking to the media breaks their promise of secrecy. I realized soon enough that sorority women would never spill their secrets to a male journalist they don’t know, seeking information about how their sororities recruit members. Traditionally, about 500 SMU
Courtesy of Facebook
There are eight Panhellenic sororities on SMU’s campus that participate in spring recruitment.
women participate in Panhellenic sorority recruitment. Only three to four of these women will not receive membership to one of the eight chapters at SMU, according to SMU’s Panhellenic Council. Rumors have been circulating since the 1980s that some of the women who don’t get a bid for the chapter they want, or don’t receive a bid at all, have left the university with nearly a full refund of their tuition. That’s because they learned of their fate before the first day of class.
My initial assignment was to find out if there was any truth to this rumor by comparing the retention rates from past years to spring ’15, when the offers for the first time would go out after the first class day, making students ineligible for a total tuition refund. My editor and I realized there was another story in my failed attempt at trying to uncover the truth about Panhellenic recruitment: The secrecy and exclusionary atmosphere around
recruitment, that leaves some students feeling left out. I asked the coordinator for Student Life, Ashley Fitzpatrick, if she was familiar with the whispers of women leaving the university as a result of being denied a spot in a sorority. I pointed out to her that Bid Day is Jan. 18, which comes after the first day of class on Jan.16, making it difficult to receive a refund for spring tuition. I also asked whether this might discourage women from leaving
the university. Fitzpatrick said the recruitment schedule is made based on the timing of January Transfer AARO and the opening of the Residential Commons buildings. “The schedule is made to ensure that it fits the needs of the Panhellenic chapters and the women participating,” she wrote in an email. My colleague in the Division of Journalism, who asked not to be named, is 20 and from west Los Angeles. She has been through recruitment twice – and dropped out both times. She doesn’t want to speak on the record for fear of offending her friends who are in sororities. “I knew a girl that was a Delta Gamma at SMU but transferred to USC to be a DG because it’s the top house,” she said. But at SMU, Delta Gamma is not considered a top tier sorority chapter. The top tier sororities at SMU are Kappa Alpha Theta, Kappa Kappa Gamma and Pi Beta Phi, according to my classmate. Adriana Frenandez, 22, and a senior in the Division of Journalism, is familiar with women leaving the university because of Greek life.
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HEALTH
MONDAY n DECEMBER 1, 2014 diet
Courtesy of The Daily Omnivore
Miso soup has anti-aging benefits.
Courtesy of The 350 Degree Oven
Miso soup has anti-aging benefits.
Courtesy of Dishmaps
Tom Yum/Hot and Sour soup can prevent cancer.
Healthy soups to warm your heart, soul this winter minestrone
COURTNEY COX Photo Editor cecox@smu.edu
So many vegetables. So much flavor. You can either buy minestrone or make it by hand with whatever veggies you have lying around. There’s even a diet called the Minestrone Soup Diet, so you know it’s for real.
It all happened so suddenly. Winter is here. Snow has fallen and now who wants to drink cold green juices to stay healthy and get their veggies in? All you may want to eat this winter are mashed potatoes and clam chowder, but there are some delicious soups that will keep you beach-ready for that family vacation coming up during winter break.
butternut squash A winter favorite. Butternut squash are excellent sources of beta carotene, which helps prevent eye problems such as dry eyes and night blindness. Squash also contain vitamins that help keep you from getting cataracts. Butternut squash is also a
miso Not only is it delicious, but miso soup is also good for digestion and strengthens your immune system. This soup will keep you slim and has anti-aging benefits.
MONDAY
MONDAY
December 1
December 1
Engaged Learning Workshop: CGI U Stories, Clements G11, Noon to 1 p.m.
Celebration of Lights, Dallas Hall Lawn, 7 p.m.
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY December 4
December 3
Career Panel Discussion Night, Heroy Hall 153, 7 to 9 p.m.
Is College Good For You? Dedman Life Science 110, 6:30 p.m.
good source of potassium, which helps lower blood pressure. This is a broth-based soup so it provides a lot of nutrients without containing a lot of calories and the high water and fiber contents will fill you up.
tom yum / hot and sour This is a shrimp soup with herbal ingredients such as coriander, lemon grass, lime leaves and galangal roots. It often includes mushrooms and a variety of chilies as well. A study in Thailand found that the ingredients are 100 times more effective in inhibiting cancerous tumor growth than other foods.
split pea This soup is made from peas, carrots, onions and ham, so you’re getting both vegetables and protein. The fiber content will help keep you feeling full and the potassium will regulate your blood pressure and support your metabolism.
black bean This soup has everything. Black beans offer fiber, protein, folic acid, potassium and magnesium. Black beans are the most antioxidant-rich beans. This soup is good for your cholesterol, too. So instead of shoveling down chowders consider these soups this winter to satisfy your soup cravings without giving you a winter blanket of your own.
Courtesy of electicrecipes.com
Butternut Squash soup can help your eye health.
Courtesy of Food People Want
Split Pea soup helps regulate your blood pressure.
TUESDAY Decemeber 2
Alpha Phi Omega’s SemiAnnual Blood Drive, Flagpole, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
FRIDAY
December 5 Engaged Learning Workshop: IRB Q&A, Clements Hall, Scholars Den, Noon to 1 p.m. Courtesy of Dishmaps
Black Bean soup helps cholesterol levels.
33RD SEASON
SMU TATE LECTURE
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SERIES 2014 –15
Tuesday, December 2, 2014 PLATON World-renowned, award-winning photographer; has photographed wellknown world figures, including more than 120 heads of state, many of whom have appeared on the covers of The New Yorker and TIME
TURNER CONSTRUCTION/ WELLS FARGO STUDENT FORUM 4:30 p.m. Hughes-Trigg Ballroom An informal question and answer session. Free and open to all students, faculty and staff. Tweet your question for @SMUtate to #SMUtate.
Students often use Adderall and other drugs like it to increase their concentration.
Adderall, ADHD prescription use can increase during finals benjamin chi Contributing Writer bchi@smu.edu
LECTURE 8 p.m. McFarlin Auditorium Students should come to the McFarlin basement at 7 p.m. First come, first served. One complimentary ticket per SMU Student ID. Limited availability. Business casual attire suggested.
ROSEWOOD MANSION ON TURTLE CREEK DALLAS
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SMU Student Foundation The Weitzman Group & Cencor Realty Services
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During finals week, college students across campuses stop partying and start studying. However, with the last minute cramming and anxiety that comes with finals week, so does prescription drug abuse. Some college students often seek out ADHD medicine such as Adderal, Ritalin and Vyvanes, even though they aren’t prescribed it or don’t have ADHD. The rate at which college students have been using these drugs has increased drastically over the last decade and is expected to continue to rise. The most cited reason for use of medicines such as Adderall nonmedically was to focus and concentrate on studying. Full time college students
were twice as likely to use Adderall than non college students of the same age (6.4 percent to 3 percent), according to a survey done by the National Survey on Drug Use and Health. In addition, they also found that students who used Adderall nonmedically were more likely to use other drugs as well. Eighty percent of students that used Adderall nonmedically had also used marijuana, compared to the 27.2 percent of the students that don’t use Adderall. Adderall works medically to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. It changes the chemicals in your brain in order to enhance cognitive activity. By increasing the activity of neurotransmitters and dopamine in the brain, it can very easily act as a euphoriant. Adderall is also classified as a schedule II controlled substance.
This classificiation includes other drugs such as cocaine, opium and morphine. The effects of Adderall are well researched. Because it’s an amphetamine, people experience a euphoric lift soon after consuming the pill. It does this by mimicking chemicals in the brain such as dopamine. It triggers a fight or flight response as well. Adderall focuses attention and quiets your appetite. Hours after taking Adderall, the person typically feels drained or depressed after wearing out. The appetite also comes back. The side term effects of Adderall include “side effects include loss of appetite, weight loss, dry mouth, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache, diarrhea, fever, nervousness and trouble sleeping,” according to webMD.
NEWS
MONDAY n DECEMBER 1, 2014 COMMENTARY
3
BUDGET
Exploring the newest group OE2C announces on SMU’s campus, Phi Lamb possible TMCs Christina cox Managing Editor clcox@smu.edu
carleeann allen Contributing Writer carleeanna@smu.edu Rather than meeting in a big brick house with pillars out front, the sisters of Sigma Phi Lamb meet for small group chats over coffee or worship services in Perkins Chapel. Focusing on spiritual growth and developing a close relationship with God is the sorority’s goal. Sigma Phi Lambda, or Phi Lamb as it is known, is SMU’s newest sorority. The Christian sorority was colonized in January with 26 members. It has grown to 50 members in less than a year. Phi Lamb is not Panhellenic and its formal recruitment is very different than the typical sorority’s. Instead of several days of parties that result in dropping some women from the process, Phi Lamb welcomes anyone with a genuine interest. Its slogan is “We don’t choose you. You choose us” because they don’t want women to feel like they’ve been turned away. “We want to build a fellowship and we want whoever is passionate or even just interested,” sophomore and founding member Tori Walker said. “We don’t want anyone to be turned away so we open our arms to everyone.” After expressing interest in the sorority, women must attend chapter meetings, prayer nights and events. At the end of the semester the new members are initiated after receiving points for the numbers of events they attended. In November, the group initiated 24 new members. Phi Lamb had multiple recruitment events this fall and will have more in the spring. Having recruitment in both the spring and the fall creates opportunities for women to try out and experience Phi Lamb. “It’s a great opportunity for those who realize that Panhellenic isn’t a fit,” said Aubrey Chapman, sophomore and founding member of Phi Lamb. Some women have joined Phi Lamb after being bumped out of the Panhellenic house they wanted. Others join because they have no interest in the more typical sorority culture in the Panhellenic houses.
RECRUITMENT Continued from page 1
She saw it play out her first year at SMU as a transfer student. “There was a girl in my dorm who dropped out of the entire process because the sororities she wanted to be a part of neglected her,” Fernandez said. “She would rather not be a part of the entire thing than be a part of a sorority she
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embody the holiday spirit,” said Jack Murphy, campus events chair. “They’re centered around anything classical to anything a little more upbeat.” As tradition goes, the lights will come on during a performance of “Silent Night.”
The Operation Excellence for the Second Century (OE2C) Office announced Nov. 19 its decision to explore four Travel Management Companies (TMCs): Colwick Travel, Corporate Travel Planners, Christopherson Business Travel and Corporate Travel Management. The chosen TMC will work with the electronic travel solution Concur to integrate tickets, hotels and rental cars, as well as provide live travel assistance and booking help to those using the software. The Travel Initiative of the OE2C project aims to consolidate
human efforts toward travel-related activities and reducing the cost of travel expenditure. To find these four TMCs, the Travel Committee for OE2C examined responses and feedback from the SMU community. They selected the four for campus presentations after evaluating each option for savings and efficiency. The company presentations will occur Dec. 2 at 5 p.m. in the Crum Auditorium of the Collins Center. The Travel Committee for OE2C will be presenting their findings to the OE2C Executive Committee before winter break. SMU faculty and staff are invited to attend and provide feedback to the Travel Committee.
CLUBS
Courtesy of SMULive
Phi Lamb sisters at their initiation earlier this year.
Sigma Phi Lambda was originally founded at the University of Texas in 1988. Since then it has spread to more than 30 college campuses throughout the South. More information on Sigma Phi Lambda can be found on the national website or the SMU chapter’s Facebook page. The founding members wanted a place where they could gather together to worship and develop a sisterhood at the same time. Walker said that during her freshman year it was hard to find a group of girls who were devoted to their faith. “I was searching and hoping for a group of girls, similar and different from me to learn from, teach to, grow with,” Walker said. Walker is grateful to have found that in her Phi Lamb sisters. She says that the wide variety of girls bond over their faith and keep it their focus while living everyday college life. “College can become overwhelming, challenging, and stressful; however, my sisters have been beside me, helping me, comforting me and loving me through the stresses and challenges of life,” Walker said. The leaders of Phi Lamb have worked skillfully to get a strong footing in the SMU community.
thought wasn’t good enough. She transferred the next year.” Meredith Carey, 22, a senior at SMU and in a sorority, is also familiar with rumors of women leaving SMU because they are disappointed when they don’t get into the house they want. “It has been a sort of hushed tradition that a number of girls have dropped out of SMU before classes started as a result of not receiving a bid for a sorority or the sorority
The lights will continue to stay on through finals and Christmas break. Spencer Meyer, a senior finance major, said that Celebration of Lights is an event that the entire student body looks forward to all year. It is a special time during the holidays when students can gather together, momentarily forget about the stress of finals
They put on a number of social events, from country barn parties to ice skating date dashes, this semester and worked to strengthen their relationships with other organizations, most notably Beta Upsilon Chi. Beta Upsilon Chi, or BYX, is the Christian fraternity on campus. The two are independent of each other but have had mixers, been partners on the Boulevard and most recently co-hosted with Light the Night, an open worship service for the campus. BYX member T.I. Adkins says that he has many friends in Phi Lamb and is impressed by the women who founded the chapter and those they have recruited. “Phi Lamb represents a budding sorority of upstanding and driven women passionately in pursuit of the Lord Jesus Christ,” Adkins said. Adkins is also impressed with the chapter’s growth over the last year and the impact it has had on campus. “I think especially in these first few formative years it would be a tactical mistake to underestimate them for being a new, smaller sorority,” he said. “The chapter has taken off and is growing impressively.” Hailey Phelps is a sophomore and Alpha Chi Omega member,
they wanted,” she said. “Its been happening since my mother went to school here in the 1980s.” Carey’s mother was a student at SMU in the early 1980s and was not a member of a sorority. Sororities are built on grouping like-minded women together that come from similar backgrounds and ignoring or rejecting others. “Sororities exclude people based on superficial things. Being a part of a sorority gives them the idea of
and revel in the joy and spirit of the holiday season. “You’re standing out there with a hot chocolate in one hand and a candle in the other, surrounded by all of your friends, and then all of the sudden the Boulevard lights up with thousands and thousands of Christmas lights, and it’s just awe-inspiring,” Meyer said.
The Numbers behind celebration of lights — More than 138,000 Christmas lights — 80 gallons of hot chocolate — 60 gallons of hot apple cider — 40 dozen Tiff’s Treats
— 10 performances — 82 angels sponsored — 6,000 attendees — One 30-foot tall tree
a Panhellenic sorority, who thinks that Phi Lamb’s presence on campus is great for girls who want to keep religion their main focus while getting involved on campus. “I think it is a great option for women on campus who are looking for a faith centered environment,” Phelps said. Phelps has heard about their events on campus and through social media and believes they are a needed addition to the social scene at SMU. “They seem like fun wholesome events for someone who wouldn’t feel as comfortable at a big fraternity party,“ she said. Besides social events, the women of Phi Lamb also volunteer around Dallas. Phi Lamb’s members spend hundreds of hours volunteering at soup kitchens and preparing bags of items to give to the homeless. “They have very driven leadership and they are not afraid to hang out with other groups, whether it is social or philanthropic,” said sophomore Alex Porter, who is a member of Beta Theta Pi, which is part of the traditional Greek Interfraternity Council. “This gives them the opportunity to be helpful in the community and encourage philanthropic work.”
social status,” Fernandez said. The recruitment process has to be kept a secret because it’s not a nice process, according to the student in my class, who went through recruitment twice. “They send your headshot around the eight chapters and they ask the members if they know you, what your parents do and how much money they have,” she said. It’s also frowned upon to mention what sorority you want to join. If
Courtesy of Facebook
The Mustang Mavericks performing in McFarlin Auditorium.
Mustang Mavericks prepare for new season lauren castle Contributing Writer lcastle@smu.edu Country music duo Big & Rich’s song “Fake I.D.” blasted from a speaker in the mat room in the Dedman Center of Lifetime Sports. Junior Natasha Gertt clapped and stomped to the song popularized by the 2011 film “Footloose.” SMU’s Mustang Mavericks country western dance team held the final part of its 2015 season auditions Thursday night. Dancers learned two dance routines during two choreography sessions earlier in the week. More than 12 people tried out, including current members. The dance team performs at on campus events and at local venues,
including Billy Bob’s Texas in Fort Worth, Tex. They performed at a Dallas Mavericks game at American Airlines Center earlier in the semester. “I love performing,” said Gertt, a 2-year team veteran. “I like the team dynamics and the challenges of coming up with new stunts and dances.” Everyone wore white shirts. However, the men came in the traditional western look with blue jeans and big belt buckles. Women were able to show their sassy side by dancing with their hands on their hips to Chris Cagle’s “Chicks Dig It.” First-year Ryan Cooper flipped his partner in a onehanded stunt during the routine. “I like stunting,” said Cooper, from Frisco, Tex. “It’s challenging and looks cool with the audience.”
you publicly mention what house you want, chances are you won’t get a bid to that house, according to the women I talked with. I was surprised when I met a first-year one day recently walking outside of the Laura Lee Blanton building who was willing to tell me what sorority house she was looking forward to joining. She emailed me days later to ask me to please remove her name from my story.
I reached out to ask her who told her not to speak. She never responded. “Mentioning my name and the sorority house I want a bid from could really hurt my chances,” she said in an email. The student said she wanted to be a part of a sorority because her mother wore the colors of light and dark blue as a Kappa . “I thought I said too much but I wasn’t sure,” said the first-year.
4
OPINION
MONDAY n DECEMBER 1, 2014 holiday
human rights
Christmas fever, excitement starts the second after Thanksgiving ends
Courtesy of Liberty Voice
Uganda has a history of homophobia.
Ugandan government pushes to pass new anti-gay bill With all the hatred and disparity currently occurring in our own country, it’s hard to hear or read about problems happening outside the U.S. There are two more speculated cases of Ebola, there are riots because of the verdict on Michael Brown’s case, and there is controversy about legalizing undocumented immigrants. But people often forget that despite these horrible, harrowing events, there are other issues arising around the world simultaneously that are just as significant. One specific issue defies the basic nature of human rights in Uganda. Ugandan legislation has proposed another law that criminalizes homosexuality. In August the court struck down an anti-gay bill banning open displays of homosexuality. However, the newest proposition seems more far-reaching than expected. The Prohibition of Promotion of Unnatural Sexual Practices Bill avoids referencing homosexuality as an innate form of sexual orientation and has added to its existing penal code prohibiting these “unnatural acts.” The revisions are extreme, intense and unfair. This could possibly be the case due to the Ugandan gay pride parade (run by the LGBT community) held after the first anti-gay law was ruled invalid a few months earlier. New laws hope to be implemented within the next two months. According to The Guardian, if a person is caught “promoting homosexuality,” then that person is forced to serve a seven-year jail sentence. If passed, strict guidelines follow this law. People who speak about their sexual orientation on social media or participating in certain human rights group activities (like LGBT) could be accused for promoting homosexuality. The ridiculous and homophobic proposal made by the Ugandan government is a feeble attempt to increase government approval ratings among its citizens. Because the country is predominantly
staff column
OLIVIA NGUYEN Opinion Editor qnoguyen@smu.edu
conservative, the Ugandan government hopes to gain a few popularity points at the expense of homosexual citizens. Draconian ruling on the issue strikes so much fear in people that gay Ugandans are fleeing the country. I know that the U.S. is not the ideal country to emulate on the issue of gay rights, but there is progress being made. Currently 16 states allow gay marriage and the acceptance of homosexuality, bisexuality and pansexuaity has notably increased in the past fifty years. People are finally realizing that this innate sexual preference is something that should not be shamed, especially if there is choosing what gender someone is attracted to. This statement may seem obvious, but in Uganda, Russia and other conservative countries, citizens do not have the option to freely speak about their sexual orientation. These individuals aren’t staying in the closet – they are forced and locked inside. It defies human rights to suprress an inherent part of someone’s genetic make up. It defies a human’s right to be forced apart from someone they love. And it is highly ignorant to imprison and persecute homosexuals for merely promoting their sexual preferences.
Nguyen is majoring in business and journalism.
The second after Thanksgiving dinner is the official time of death for the holiday. What follows the sad passing of my favorite holiday is the official countdown for Christmas. Over Thanksgiving break, giant tubs are taken out of the attic or garage. Garlands, ornaments, stockings and tinsel overflow out of the containers. These eye-catching decorations instantly light up any sour mood. In my family, we start preparing for Christmas during Thanksgiving break. My father and brother set out to find the perfect Christmas tree, finding the right height and fullness, then come back to our house to set up. The tree stands tall and proud in our front hallway near the entrance of our house by the spiraling stairs. My mother and I drag all the jewelry over to dress our naked and new model. We string lights and garland, circling the tree multiple times, and hang matching gold ornaments and bows. And on top of the tree is our traditional angel, one that my brother and I have put on together since we were little. After the main attraction is decorated, the rest of the house is decorated with gold ribbon and tinsel looped around our bannisters, bows tied by windows, wreaths hung and stockings latched over the fireplace. When the decorating is
STAFF COLUMN
OLIVIA NGUYEN Opinion Editor
qonguyen@smu.edu
finally complete inside the house, my father and brother light the outside of our house. White lights frame the entryway and pathway. A small Santa and a few reindeer are placed on the front lawn. Once everything is complete, the family gathers around to watch holiday specials and drink hot chocolate. The warm and joyous aura travels throughout the house. The holiday season excites our family and brings us closer together for the short time we are able to. This will be the first time in a long time our family is together and participating in a traditional Christmas. Years prior we have lived in Singapore, a tropical island country that has a steady climate of heat, humidity and seasonal rain. And let’s just say that Christmas was vastly different from how it is in America. While there are Christmas lights strung around the city in Singapore, the lights are nothing like the traditional white or multi-colored strings of lights you can find at your local Home Depot. These over-the-top, hot pink, ice blue and sometimes blinding white spectacles are
strung throughout the most busy and central part of the city, Orchard Road. Singapore has managed to twist the American classic holiday into an art piece that is admired by its million of populates. Because Singapore has an average climate about 80-85 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, it’s necessary for snow and ice machines to be stationed outside local malls and other attractions for children to play in. Due to the country’s inconvenient location (one degree north of the equator), it is impossible for the country to be cold enough to produce snow. Thus genius technology has allowed us to have snow from ice machines that blast fake snow from cannons at the tops of malls so local children can experience a white Christmas (until it melts, that is). While I appreciated the experience and memories that I made while living in Singapore, I always knew that despite its avant-garde take on Christmas, it would never truly feel like so unless I was at home with my family cozying up by the fireplace near our Christmas tree. In fact, after all the different Christmas I’ve gotten to experience traveling abroad during the holidays, there is no greater feeling than spending it at the place you call home, wherever that may be.
Nguyen is majoring in business and journalism.
Courtesy of BBC News
Christmas fever begins on Black Friday.
humans of SMU
quoteworthy
“The greatest nation on Earth should not be dependent on any other nation to get to space.” -NASA Administrator Charles Bolden on Boeing and SpaceX $6.8 billion grant to create Apollo-styled space taxis “It’s terrific that more people are working full time, but if we had a higher minimum wage and companies would pay more, then we’d make much more progress.” -Sheldon Danziger, president of the Russell Sage Foundation on Latino demographic showing economic recovery in the U.S.
“I have always said this is the ‘no’ campaign’s to lose and it certainly looks as if they have got pretty close to that.” -John Curtice, professor of politics at Strathclyde University on Scottish opponents on independence with slight lead ahead of vote “My job, my duty, my responsibility here, it seems to me, is to keep him in prison for the rest of his natural life so that he can never harm another woman.” -Judge Barbara Zambelli on convicting a 61-year-old man with a long history of attacking women
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ARTS
MONDAY n DECEMBER 1, 2014 comedy
5
The atre
Meadows premieres new shows blair croce Arts and Entertainment Editor bcroce@smu.edu
Courtesy of blogs.dallasobserver.com
Perhaps the most popular place for comedy in town, Dallas Comedy House always provides a lot of laughs.
Top Five comedy clubs to visit riley coven Arts and Entertainment Writer rcoven@smu.edu
and plenty of good food to go along with the laughs, this establishment is well worthy of a spot on this list.
Chris Rock returns to the big screen in the comedic film “Top Five.” Rock wrote, directed and starred in the film as comedian Andre Allen in the film about a Hollywood star whose life is more complicated than it seems. To celebrate we thought we’d give a little insight into the top five comedy clubs in Dallas. Dallas Boasting
Comedy generous
House: crowds
they always manage to make it as funny as it can be.
Ad-Libs: Focusing on improvisational comedy, this spot will have you laughing from start to finish. There is never a dull moment and the cast really knows how to have a good time.
Hyena’s Comedy Club: A club oozing with comedic talent, Hyena’s is often packed with just as many hilarious audience members as comedians. From the host to the actual entertainers, this club is one that can’t be ignored.
Backdoor Comedy: With a smaller more intimate atmosphere, Backdoor Comedy is known for its hilarious audience interactions. The comedians have plenty to say and
ComedySportz: A troupe of hilarious improvisational comedians, this spot is never quiet for long. The cast is as quick-witted as can be and even offer instructional pieces as well.
We tried to forget about them over break, but finals are now just around the corner. Take a deep breath. Though we will devote most of our time the next two weeks to studying comprehensive reviews and finishing projects, sometimes a nice study break can help with all the pressure. Just in time to rescue us from our study pits, SMU Theatre has four new shows running this weekend at Meadows. Check these productions out to redress your stress. “In the Boom Boom Room” is a play written by David Rabe in 1972 that follows a young and naïve aspiring dancer. Chrissy, the show’s leading lady, gets a taste of sleaziness as a go-go dancer at Big Tom’s Boom Boom Room, a slinky nightclub. Throughout the story, Chrissy forms sexual and emotional connections with unfavorable suitors, while forcing down
memories of abusive parents. SMUST’s (SMU Student Theatre’s) rendition of “In the Boom Boom Room” runs from December 7-9 at Margo Jones Theatre (Meadows School of the Arts). The show is free of charge and features a talented cast of students directed by student Jake Nice. “10 Bitches and a Stage” is modeled after the Neofuturist’s show “Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind.” This fun SMUST show includes 30 student-written short plays in only one hour. Don’t miss this free and eccentric show on Dec. 7 and 8 at 11 p.m. in room B450 in the Meadows School of Arts. “Birdland” is a new play written by Simon Stephens, which first premiered at the Royal Court Theatre in London earlier this year. This show follows Paul, a rock star at the height of his fame, on the last week of his huge international tour as he faces the bitter reality of returning home to a much less exhilarating lifestyle.
Courtesy of comedysportzdallas.com
ComedySportz is a hilarious venue for both imporv and rehearsed performances.
“Birdman” deals with themes of love, money, and fame through an engaging narrative. Directed by SMU student Jenna Hannum, SMUST’s portrayal of “Birdland” runs December 5-8 in room B150 in the Meadows School of Arts. “Look Homeward, Angel,” winner of the Pulitzer Prize in 1957, is a play based on Thomas Wolfe’s autobiographical novel written for the stage by Ketti Frings. Set in North Carolina, this coming-of-age show centers on Eugene Grant from his birth to the age of 19. Directed by Bernard Cummings, “Look Homeward, Angel” runs December 3-7 in Greer Garson Theatre. Tickets are $7 for students, faculty and staff. So close your books, save your work and mosey on over to the Meadows School of Arts this weekend for an entertaining break. Just remember, we’ve only got two more weeks. I believe in all of you.
Courtesy of mcs.smu.edu
SMU’s rendition of “Look Homeward, Angel” premieres Wednesday.
Courtesy of backdoorcomedy.com
Backdoor Comedy Club provides a more intimate venue for comedy.
Childcare CORRECTED CONTACT: White Rock Lake Mom Seeking caring and reliable help with 7-year old daughter as needed basis Weekdays and Weekends. Some overnight. Clean driving history/reliable transportation required. Call Debbie at 214-435-7677. Exceptional Dependable driver needed to transport kids go-andfrom activities 3:30-7:30 TueWed-Thu. Help with homework and errands. Loving HP family that pays well. Interested? Email cookicola@sbcglobal.net
Employment TX Natl needs general executive office help in Campbell Center. Caruth Haven and Central Exp. $12/hr. Call (214) 373-6920 9a1p, ask for Mr. Bruce.
For Rent Solution: 11/24/14
To Play: Complete the grid so that every row, column, and 3x3 box contains the digits 1-9. There is no guessing or math involved, just use logic to solve.
2-bed 2-bath 2-level spacious apartment to share in Oaklawn $500 a month plus utilities call Michael at 214-929-3252 for additional info and to view apartment. ROOM FOR RENT Available Jan.1st through mid-May. Serious Female student preferred. One block to SMU. Furnished. All utilities paid. Washer/dryer
included. $750/month rent. Email ann.stough@yahoo.com or 214232-2539
Crossword
Miscellaneous
Across 1 Greenhouse growth 6 Condescending one 10 Take wing 13 Andrea __: sunken ocean liner 14 "So I was wrong!" 15 Actor Stephen 16 *Mark of a hothead 18 "A mouse!" 19 Remain fresh 20 North African port city 22 Regret one's 32-Acrosses 25 Cavs, on scoreboards 26 Blurt out 27 Figure skating jump 28 NYC airport named for a mayor 30 One of two matching beds 32 Admission in a confessional 33 Hotelier Helmsley 35 Lady's title 38 *"This space available," in a Pennysaver box 41 Peddles 42 Fight mementos 43 Crunched muscles 44 Dog who reveals the Wizard 46 Netherlands airline 47 Those, to Pedro 48 Procedure: Abbr. 49 Stamp sellers, briefly 51 Ancient scrolls 53 Takes over, like termites 55 Menu item 56 Baseball's "Iron Man" Ripken 57 Foot-operated mechanism on a motorcycle, and what the first word in each answer to a starred clue can be
Classified Advertising 3 Days • 25 words • $20 6 Days • 25 words • $30 Fax your ad to 214-768-4573 E-mail to dcclassads@smu.edu Questions about reserving a classified ad? Call 214-768-4554 Visa, Mastercard, Discover, Accepted
Tutor Services ACCOUNTING, MATH, CHEMISTRY, STATISTICS, ECONOMICS, FINANCE, ITOM, Physics, Rhetoric Tutoring. Learn to work smarter not harder. David Kemp Tutorial Services. Call 469-7676713 or david@dktutoring.com.
Tutor Wanted Seeking tutor for eighth-grade boy. Athletic and disorganized. Needs support with Math. Contact Sally at (214) 912-4833.
62 Pitcher's stat 63 Online letter 64 Accord automaker 65 Brain scan, for short 66 Put on notice 67 Being hauled to the garage Down 1 ASAP cousin 2 Baseball's "Iron Horse" Gehrig 3 Tycoon Onassis 4 Five-cent coin 5 Unavailable 6 Total 7 Himalayan country 8 Brunch order 9 Arctic hazard 10 *Relaxed 11 Suspicious 12 Chews the fat 14 Back-to-school mo. 17 Lipton shelfmate 21 Basketball Hall of Famer Thomas 22 Filing tools 23 Formally banish 24 *A football referee may throw one 25 Vancouver NHL team 29 Baby talk syllables 31 Alleged Iraqi arsenal, for short 33 "__ we forget" 34 Sea divided by shrinkage 36 Leafy recess 37 FC Barcelona soccer star Lionel
39 Nearby 40 Deodorant spot 45 Kia sedan 47 "Sleepless in Seattle" director Nora 48 Game trap 50 "The Odd Couple" slob 52 Japanese beer brand 53 Slurpee alternative 54 Distort 55 Broadband letters 58 Family 59 Blasting material 60 Tokyo, long ago 61 Like unprocessed data
Solution 11/24/2014
6
SPORTS
MONDAY n DECEMBER 1, 2014 SPIRIT
Women’s Basketball
MOB points system helps raise attendance at all sporting events Janelle Giordano Contributing Writer jmgiordano@smu.edu In recent years, basketball games have been the main attraction for students at Southern Methodist University. With the creation of the new MOB points system, students began attending and supporting other sports teams as they try to earn points to be a part of the basketball MOB. Kelsey Gorney, a midfielder for the Southern Methodist University women’s soccer team, is not alone when she says that attendance to her team’s home matches increased significantly this season. “In our women’s soccer history we have never filled the stands at a game and it was pretty close to full at one of the games this year,” said Gorney. “No one but our parents and the boys’ soccer team would come last year.” SMU sports teams have all seen a spike in the amount of fans supporting them at home games this season. While some fans attend out of mere pride for their university and the athletic programs, the majority of the increase comes from students participating in the new MOB points system. New to Mustang athletic programs this year, the points system aims to encourage students to attend other sports events in an effort to try and earn points to become a part of the MOB during basketball season. Gorney thinks the new points
Courtesy of SMU Athletics
SMU had 22 assists but 23 tunrovers agaisnt Florida A&M Friday.
Mustangs place second in the SMU Classic Samuel Snow Associate Sports Editor dteniente@smu.edu Courtesy of Ryan Miller
The MOB’s new point sytem brought students out to other sports they wouldn’t normally watch otherwise.
system is a great way to attract more fans to sporting events other than basketball. “A lot of students don’t know when soccer or volleyball games are so the system helps keep students in the know,” said Gorney. “The student body should be more supportive than just basketball so I really think it is a great idea.” Most athletes say the system is a good idea, but it does have its flaws. Jeremiah Gaines, a wide receiver for the Mustang football team, wishes the increase in fans would be due to an increased interest in the sport, not just the goal to get basketball tickets. “I think it’s a good idea, but I think it’s bad that we have to use basketball as a way to get people to support our athletics instead of
them supporting us on their own,” said Gaines. While some athletes wish the incentive to come to their games was for more than just basketball tickets, the new system did get their teams’ larger crowds at most home games and they couldn’t complain about that. The new points system also exposed students to the other competitive sports that work hard to represent SMU athletically. Most of the MOB-hopeful students that filled the stands at these sporting events initially attended the games simply to collect their points, but ended up developing an interest in the less recognized sports like soccer and volleyball. Dylan Dickman, a student at SMU as well as a new member of the MOB, had the typical
initial goal in attending other sporting events. “At first I went for the points, but I stayed because the games were exciting,” said Dickman. “I definitely got more into soccer and volleyball because of the MOB points.” The support from the fans is huge motivation for all the sports teams at SMU. Whether people are there because they love the excitement in watching the game or because they simply want to earn a couple points, having a large crowd helps to energize teams because it gives them people to play for. “The crowd really helps to get the team motivated,” said Gorney. “When you know you have support behind you it helps you make that extra run or tackle.”
For more SMU sports news follow @SMUSportsDesk, @Demo36, @Patrick_Engel94 and @SamuelSnowBTT
While you were away, undoubtedly napping and stuffing your face with turkey, the SMU women’s basketball team partook in the SMU Classic Championship, playing two games against Florida A&M and USC. The opening game Friday proved to be a cinch for the Mustangs, as they easily beat the Florida A&M Rattlers, 77-46. Strong rebounding and tight defense allowed SMU to carry a 40-21 lead into the half, a lead that the Mustangs never relented. Highlighting the strong effort was the effort of three SMU players, all of whom finished with double-doubles. Junior forward Destynee HivesMcCray led the way with 18 points and 11 rebounds. First-year Alicia Froling added 14 points and 10 rebounds, while fellow first-year Taylor Brame collected 11 points and 13 rebounds. SMU shot 40.6 percent for the game and grabbed 59 rebounds, while Florida A&M was held to 23.6 percent and 29 rebounds. While the Mustangs did exhibit good ball movement with 22 assists, the 23 turnovers were a cause for concern. Sure enough,
the next day, that problem proved to be their demise. On Saturday, SMU took the court against the 4-1 Trojans and ultimately lost 64-57. The Mustangs held a 23-18 lead at the halftime buzzer due to stingy defense, holding USC to 23.5 percent shooting. However, an inability to continue that defensive pace allowed the Trojans to shoot 50 percent in the second half and out score the Mustangs by 12. While SMU did out rebound USC, 44-37, their 24 turnovers cost them dearly and played a key role in the loss. Froling and Brame once again scored in double digits (10 and 12 respectively) and Gabrielle Wilkins joined the party with 12 points. Hives-McCray scored only eight points but was the only Mustangs to grab double-digit rebounds with 13. Hives-McCray was named to the All Tournament team along with the USC forward Alexyz Vaioleteama (who also nabbed MVP honors), Florida A&M guard Khadejra Young, Sam Houston State guard Shernise Robertson, Jr., and USC guard Jordan Adams. The 3-3 Lady Mustangs next take the court Wednesday at Moody versus North Texas. Tipoff is at 7 p.m.
While you were eating turkey (11/25) The Men’s Basketball team fell to Arkansas 78-72 in what was probably the sloppiest game in the newly renovated Moody Coliseum. SMU committed 16 turnovers in the first half. (11/26) The Mustangs followed up that performance with a decisive 72-59 win over Texas Southern University. (11/28)The football team lost to Houston 35-9. SMU lead 9-7 at one point but surrendered 28 unanswered points to lose its final home game of the season. (11/28) Volleyball beat East Carolina 3-0 for its 26th win of the season (team record). SMU also finishes second in the American Athletic Conference. (11/30) The Men’s basketball team took on Monmouth Sunday night- check out smudailycampus.com/sports for our coverage.