Volume 126 | Issue 5

Thursday, Sept. 11, 2014

The Independent Student Newspaper of Sam Houston State University

REMINDER: TOMORROW IS THE LAST DAY TO DROP CLASSES WITH REFUND

What’s happening at Sam SUMMER MARCHING, P.2

RUSH WEEK, P.3

RICE, P.4

VOLLEYBALL, P.5

GRAMMAR TEST, P.2

Students took to the field this summer but not for two-a-days

Prospective students will attempt to join sororities and frats next week

Who’s really the victim of the Ray Rice domestic violence issue?

One SHSU player recently surpassed 1,000 kills.

What’s next?

Mass communication students were shocked to be enrolled in class

Volume 126 | Issue 5

/HoustonianSHSU

DELTA TAU DELTA PROBED

BY DEAN’S INVESTIGATION

@HoustonianSHSU

@HoustonianSHSU

HoustonianOnline.com

Report: drunken driving declining in Huntsville

Brynn Castro | The Houstonian

THE MISSING LETTERS. An empty space is all that remains where Delta Tau Delta letters once stood. The fraternity remains inactive on campus.

STAFF REPORT The Delta Tau Delta chapter at Sam Houston State University is currently under investigation, according to Dean of Student John Yarabeck.

While the details of the investigation are not clear, he was able to confirm the investigation.

“At this time Delta Tau Delta is going through the SHSU judicial process,” Yarabeck said. “Because the specific allegations against the fraternity have yet to be resolved I or members of the Dean of Students Office cannot comment any

further on it at this time for confidentiality reasons. I regret that we cannot elaborate any further but our not doing so enables the process to move forward in the fairest and most equitable way possible.”

According to the president of the Interfraternal Council, Delta Tau Delta at SHSU has been suspended and cannot rush or place their letters in the Lowman Student Center Mall Area.

Attempts to contact Delta Tau Delta members and those close to the investigation were unsuccessful. Follow The Houstonian for more information about the investigation as it unfolds.

Prof. appointed to forensics committee TEDDI CLIETT Staff Reporter A look inside the chemistry and forensic science building at Sam Houston State University mirrors the set of crime shows like CSI or Bones. To forensic science professor Sarah Kerrigan though, these college labs will now be the place of extensive government-funded research.

Kerrigan was recently appointed to the Forensic Science Standards Board, a new organization committed to regulating the standards by which forensic science is developed and disciplined. The organization is composed of several forensic disciplines including, but not limited to, drug chemistry, anthropology, toxicology, DNA and legal death investigation.

“I think there were three or four researchers appointed in the United States, so I was certainly very pleased to be a part of that,” Kerrigan said.

The field of board members is broad and diverse, specializing in

people with a very wide range of scientific expertise.The newly established board approached Kerrigan and offered her a position in research, a vital part of the organization.

Kerrigan has earned years of credentials from locations around the world. The professor studied in Vancouver, Canada as well as worked with the Scotland Yard Forensic Science Lab in London. After she moved overseas to California, where she was employed at the Justice Department, she then found her way to New Mexico where she ran a state crime lab. Eventually, Kerrigan ended up at SHSU because of her husband’s career.

“My experience as a practitioner, as a state crime lab director, and as a leader in forensic science service organizations, puts me at a real advantage [for the appointment],” Kerrigan said. “I have the perspective from academia and also the perspective from industry.”

For a full version of this article, visit HoustonianOnline.com.

Lillie Muyskens | The Houstonian

Compiled from University Police Statistics obtained by The Houstonian, Sam Houston Avenue, Sycamore Road, Montgomery Road and Interstate 45 are among the thoroughfares in which the most alcohol-related reports were logged between 2009 and the fall of 2014.

CONNOR HYDE Senior Reporter Alcohol related crimes involving students at Sam Houston State University have seen a stark decrease since 2009, according to University Police statistics obtained by The Houstonian.

According to UPD records, driving while intoxicated (DWI) and public intoxication (PI) reports saw a drastic increase between 2009 and 2012, from 24 to 39 for DWIs and 46 to 94 for PIs. However, both experienced an equal decline in reports from 2012 to 2014 – down to four DWIs and 13 PIs so far in 2014.

“I think that’s a part of education,” UPD Lt. Standerfer said.

“Students are getting smarter and making sure they have designated drivers afterwards.”

Most of the reports were documented on Sam Houston Avenue, 17th Street, Bowers Blvd., Bobby K. Marks Drive, Sycamore Avenue, and Montgomery Road. Along the major thoroughfares lie multiple bars including Shenanigans and

Confettis Beach Club, The Jolly Fox, The Draft Bar and the Stardust Room.

Standefer said the majority of the alcohol-related reports happen along major roads because most students recognize them as primary routes to navigate Huntsville.

Other roads, including avenues branching from major thoroughfares, also experience a large number of reports.

“You drive around in this town long enough you get to know shortcuts and it’s students just trying to find a way to get home,” Standerfer said.

Tuesday and Thursday nights are recognized as “party nights,” however Standerfer said the number of DWIs reported on Tuesdays have incrementally declined. Thursday reports remain high.

Yet, as the number of reports involving alcohol related incidents have declined, the student population at SHSU has seen a significant jump between 2009 and 2013. Fall enrollment in 2009 was tallied at 16,715 and surged to 19,210, a 15 percent increase, in 2013, according to the SHSU fact book.

To compensate for the increase in student population, UPD has opened two additional officer positions, according to Standerfer.

With additional officers, Standerfer said overall reports from UPD have increased, but have not included alcohol related incidents.

“You see our report numbers are going up, whether it’s medical calls or damaged vehicles, it seems like those go up and as those go up we have smaller time to enforce traffic violations and that’s how you stumble across DWIs.” UPD Sgt. Candice Sherbenou echoed Standerfer and said the education about the dangers of drunken driving among students has helped decrease alcohol-related reports. Sherbenou is a head figure with UPD’s Community Outreach Program (CORE) that is designated to educate students about a variety of issues including alcohol, drug and sexual abuse.

“I feel like more people are requesting that we come talk to them in their groups,” Sherbenou said.

“As the issue is talked about more, — DRIVING, page 6

SHSU warns of HonorSociety.org CONNOR HYDE Senior Reporter Sam Houston State University faculty are warning students to avoid HonorSociety.org, an invitation-only group which the university claims is deceptive and misleading.

Gene Young, Ph.D., Dean of SHSU’s Honors College, warned students to keep cautious of HonorSociety.org, which has recently been emailing students at their SHSU email address. He said it is a deceptive website that is not a member of the Association of College Honor Societies or other recognized college honor organizations.

“I don’t know if you’d call it a scam,” Young said. “It’s not an outright scam. There are some benefits to membership, but it’s really misrepresenting itself as an honor society.”

Various privileges and resources listed within HonorSociety.org acceptance emails include: exclusive scholarship listings, access to honor cords and tassels, free access to premier job postings, and various job and standardized test preparation classes.

HonorSociety.org charges $50 to activate its membership.

Young sent out an email to SHSU honor students stating “their recruitment is at best, deceiving … I would not advise you to join.”

Young’s statement is consistent with warnings from other universities and colleges including the University of Texas at San Antonio, North Carolina Central University and Rutgers University Newark.

Christian Roberts, associate research professor at University of California at Los Angeles and faculty adviser for HonorSociety.org disagrees. He said the organization may not be accredited yet because it’s a new society, but it’s “not a

scam.”

“Whoever said that doesn’t know what they’re talking about,” Roberts said.

Roberts said HonorSociety.org has chapters outside of UCLA, although its website does not list local chapters. Roberts has served as an adviser for HonorSociety.org since February and said he isn’t aware of any push for HonorSociety.org to become accredited.

According to the Association of College Honor Societies (ACHS), the minimum scholastic requirement for students to join an ACHS affiliate is a 3.2 or 3.3 grade point average (GPA), depending on the chapter. Young said although the academic requirements for HonorSociety.org are not explicitly outlined, some students who are receiving invitations fall below the ACHS requirements.

The Associated Press

TAKING ON ISIS. President Barack Obama addresses the nation from the Cross Hall in the White House in Washington on Wednesday. In a major reversal, Obama ordered the United States into a broad military campaign to “degrade and ultimately destroy” militants in two volatile Middle East nations, authorizing airstrikes inside Syria for the first time.

The Houstonian | HoustonianOnline.com/category/news | Thursday, Sept. 11, 2014

Page 2

Students march music’s ‘major league’ HANNAH ZEDAKER Associate Editor Hearts pounding, sweat bursting through pores and the sun unmercifully beating down while hundreds of feet march in sync to both the beat of the drums and the movement of the drum major’s hands. This is no longer high school marching bands under Friday night lights; this is Drum Corps International.

While most students spent their summers taking classes, working odd jobs or taking on internships, this summer many students in Sam Houston State University’s music department took on the very time-consuming, challenging and worthwhile feat known as DCI. Junior mass communication major Kei Harvin, senior music education major Cori Reebenacker and junior criminal justice major Zach Gagner were three of those musicians.

“I decided to join because I have a strong passion for drumming, and getting to only focus on drumming every single day of my summer was something I was really looking forward to doing,” Gagner said. “DCI is called by many ‘marching music’s major league,’ and I really wanted to get out there and compete at the highest level possible for this activity.”

Gagner performed his first season with the Oregon Crusaders this past summer as a snare drum-

mer, while Harvin, another rookie percussionist to DCI, played quads with the Boston Crusaders Drum and Bugle Corps, the third oldest division in DCI. “I decided to march in a World Class Drum Corps, because I felt like I had reached an extremely advanced level on my instrument,” Harvin said.”I wanted to audition and march with a group that was going to push me to the edge and my skills to the limit with players of similar capabilities.”

From the other side of the field, Reebenacker who primarily plays the clarinet, served as one of the drum majors with the brand new division of DCI, the Guardians Drum and Bugle Corps.

“I decided to join DCI because I felt it was an important contribution to my music education career,” Reebenacker said. “I also joined because it was a great and unexpected opportunity that came up, especially since this was my last year to participate in DCI. It’s a good learning experience and you truly learn a lot about yourself both as a person and as a musician.”

DCI regulations only allow musicians under the age of 22 to compete, disqualifying Reebenacker for future seasons with the company.

Fortunately for her, however, the Guardians have asked her to join them as a staff member for the upcoming season.

The audition process for every corps is both extensive and time consuming, beginning usually in

Nov. of the previous year. According to Gagner, the process starts with deciding which groups you would like to audition for and then after receiving the materials and music from each group, the prospective musicians begin learning and preparing for auditions.

For Gagner, this meant spending his fair share in plane tickets and camp fees to travel to and from Oregon, where his corps was based.

After a musician has been selected or “contracted,” they must travel to their corps headquarters on a monthly basis for practice.

One the actual DCI season begins in May, the members of the group move to headquarters and spend three weeks learning the entire show prior to their performances which take place across the country, throughout the entire summer.

“The hardest part was probably halfway through tour when you realize that you still have a month left of sleeping on gym floors, [taking] cold showers, waking up early, and busting your butt in the heat of the summer with 50 pound drums on,” Harvin said. “You realize how well we have it in our day-to-day lives with running hot water, beds, and climate control right at our fingertips. It teaches you to be more humble because you know there are people that live even more uncomfortably than we did this summer.”

—

DRUMS, page 6

Courtesy Zach Gagner

PERCUSSION PERFECTION. Junior criminal justice major Zach Gagner (right) performs intensely alongside fellow percussionists with the Oregon Crusaders. This past summer, Gagner among many other musicians associated with SHSU took part in “marching music’s major league” known as Drum Corps International.

Mass Comm students VPSS holds student luncheon to take grammar test LEX LAAS Contributing Reporter Mass communication majors and minors were quite confused upon checking their Degree Works page at the beginning of the semester.

An extra class was added to each student’s Blackboard profiles, raising many questions and concerns for faculty and students alike. No formal announcements were made, and even more so, a lot of faculty, when asked, did not even have answers themselves.

After a lot of grey area, an announcement on the class page stated, “all SHSU Mass Communication majors and minors are required to pass the Mass Communication Grammar Competency Test.”

“The mass communication curriculum committee wanted all students in the department to achieve a standard competency in the basics of grammar and style,” Ruth Massingill, associate professor of

Mass Communication, said. “In consultation with the chair of the department and faculty who teach writing class, the committee determined the best way to accomplish that goal would be to incorporate the modules into every section of MCOM 1332.”

The modules are a crucial part of the MCOM 1332, Writing for Mass Media’s curriculum, which is a required class for students in all four concentrations. The test’s main goal is to test student’s grammar and writing techniques while making sure their skills are on a college level.

This requires all students to pass the exam with a score of 80 percent or better. Students cannot enroll in upper level communication courses required for graduation until they pass the test.

The test is 55 questions, with a general completion time of 30 minutes to an hour, however there is no official time limit on the test.

Students must complete the test in a proctored environment.

Brynn Castro | The Houstonian

PRESIDENTIAL SWEETS. President Dana G. Hoyt and Vice President of Student Services Frank Parker talk business over dessert at the luncheon. Students joined Hoyt and Parker for lunch in order to connect on a more personal level.

LELSIE CORDOVA Contributing Reporter Students were invited to have lunch with the president, vice president of student services, and faculty of Sam Houston State University on Sept. 9 in the Lowman Student Center for the monthly VPSS Luncheon.

The student luncheon is a way the Department of Student Services attempts to bring out students to give them a chance to learn more about SHSU and the staff. It offers the opportunity for students to meet fellow students, ask questions, and appease their curiosity about the university.

The 20 students who attended the event received a three-course meal and were joined by six staff members and faculty of the university. Among them were Kris Ruiz, associate director of marketing and communications, Carlos

Hernandez, vice president of financial management services, Debbie Nichols, assistant to the vice president of student services, Frank Parker, who hosted the luncheon, as well as university president, Dana Hoyt.

Each member went around the table and introduced themselves.

Once everyone was settled, Parker spoke, mentioning the significance of events such as the luncheon.

“We see this as an opportunity to get to know the students,” Parker said. “This way we know what it is the student body wants, and with this information, we get to change some things.”

Staff members were very warm and inviting to casual conversation, making it easy for students to feel comfortable.

“I am used to the city life of Houston and it feels like at 5 p.m. all of Huntsville closes,” Rebecca Alexander, freshman forensic science major said. “So I’ve been trying to come to as many events as

possible to get to know more people and the university a little more.

It is nice that [SHSU] offers the chance to meet [administration] personally.”

Alexander is a first generation college student and emphasized the importance of attending a school she felt was like a second home.

Once everyone began their dessert, Parker took the opportunity to begin asking students questions.

“Why did you choose Sam?” Parker said.

Immediately, hands were raised.

The answers from students ranged from SHSU being the perfect option for a particular field of study, to a mere attraction to the amount of school spirit that is felt on campus.

For a full version of this article, please visit HoustonianOnline. com. Don’t forget to follow The Housotnian on social media: @HoustonianSHSU @HoustonianSport

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The Houstonian | HoustonianOnline.com/category/campusculture | Thursday, Sept. 11, 2014

Page 3

Catherine Stallard | The Houstonian

LOCAL OFFERS. Nearly 50 local businesses displayed what services and products they have to offer at Bearkat Mania on Wednesday. 10,000 coupon books were given out, with deals from the presenters.

RUSH! RUSH! RUSH! Students all over campus will visit with different sororities and fraternities next week to learn more about how to join them. After a week of recruiting, the sororities and fraternities will choose students who will become inductees.

Interfraternal Council SEAN SMITH Campus Culture Editor The men of Sam Houston State University’s Interfraternial Council are preparing to welcome new members following their recruitment period known as “Rush Week.”

IFC fraternities are different than other Greek councils, according to Phi Gamma Delta member Ryan Cayacoya.

“What sets IFC apart from other Greek councils is the unity,” he said. “Even though a lot of us are affiliated with other chapters, we can still be good friends

and hang out, whether it be around town or helping each other in the classroom.“ Cayacoya said that there are many benefits in joining a Greek organization, such as scholarships, networking and making life-long friendships.

The recruitment process for IFC began before the semester started at “Sneak Peek at Greek,” a Welcome Week event in which Greek organizations were able to present their groups to students, according to Cayacoya.

“The IFC recruitment process is pretty simple,” he said. “We start the year off with Sneak Peek at Greek

Multicultural Greek Council

and it’s a chance for incoming students to meet some of the chapters and to help them see the benefits and how well they would fit with the chapter.”

IFC “Rush Week” begins Sept. 16 with orientation.

Prospective new members will visit the houses they are interested in and are given quick overviews about membership from the presenting fraternities.

For more in-depth coverage of the Interfraternal Council, please visit HoustonianOnline.com.

SEAN SMITH Campus Culture Editor The members of Sam Houston State University’s Multicultural Greek Council have been working to recruit new members to their organizations this semester.

MGC’s five sororities and one fraternity have different means of recruiting students of all classifications, said Sigma Kappa Omega member Eloisa Cruz.

“You can be a freshman, you can be a sophomore, junior, even a senior,” she said.

“You can be a part of it for a semester here at school, but you’ll be a sister or alumnus

for life.”

Cruz said joining a Greek organization helps students meet new people and forge life-long friendships.

“You definitely meet a lot of people,” she said. “Especially if you’re coming from a small town or from another big school where you had a lots of friends and when you come to college and your friends didn’t come with you.”

While each MGC organization recruits during different time periods, the rush process is essentially the same. However, MGC’s process differs from the other Greek councils.

Groups will hold a “Rush

Week” where prospective members learn about the process of going Greek.

MGC also holds a showcase where all organizations show what their fraternity or sorority has to offer.

Towards the end of rush week, organizations hold interviews with their prospective new members to learn more about their future inductees, according Cruz.

“If we feel [the interviewee] fits with us, and us with them, we’ll extend them a bid which they can accept or decline,” she said.

For a full version of this article, please visit HoustonianOnline.com.

Families to visit SHSU campus SEAN SMITH Campus Culture Editor As the first few weeks of the fall semester come to a close, the Sam Houston State University community is settling to college life once again. Returning students are returning to their daily routines, and new students have been familiarizing themselves with their new home.

Learning the ins and outs of a new town, new school and new residence not only concerns the new students, but also their families.

The entire SHSU student population will have a chance to display the campus to their loved ones during Family Weekend 2014.

The three-day event, sponsored by the Dean of Students office, allows students to show their friends and family what SHSU campus life is all about, according to Chelsea Smith, assistant Dean of Students for Parent Relations and Special Programs.

“I hope that [students] are able to just show off the campus and

let their parents know that they’re here, they’re excited about being here and this is their university now,” she said. “The parents can be proud of the university and excited that they chose Sam Houston.”

Although Family Weekend 2014 is geared towards all students, newer students have the most to show to their families.

“We do try to get events for all students, but we definitely want our freshmen students to come out and let their parents see how they’ve been since they’ve gotten here, meet their professors, kind of engage in campus life and see how they’re adjusting to everything and settling in here at Sam Houston,” she said.

Student organizations were welcomed to reach out to visitors during several events, and the Dean of Students Office recruited groups at Passport to Sam during this summer’s orientations, according to Smith.

Events will take place throughout the weekend, starting with check-ins and campus tours tomorrow at 10 a.m. That night, mu-

sic and entertainment will be provided as student groups and spirit organizations cheer on the football team at the Bearkat Pep Rally.

“This is our third year doing that pep rally,” Smith said. “It’s mainly for the parents, the family and the students coming in for that weekend, but we also invite our Greek life to come out for it and all of the student organizations on campus.”

Additional events throughout the weekend include Coffee with The Administrators, open houses for various colleges at the university, and the eleventh annual Classic Car Cruise-In. Registered guests will receive a t-shirt, complimentary gift, catered lunch and admission to the tailgate and classic car show.

Family Weekend has been a long lasting tradition at SHSU, with origins as early as 1925.

Events will run from tomorrow through Sunday and a full schedule is available on the Dean of Students’ website.

For more information, contact the Dean of Students’ office at 936294-1785 or doso@shsu.edu.

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FROMY ONL

Jennifer Lawrence has something to smile about following the leaking of nude photos of the Oscar winning actress. The Guinness World Records 2015 has named Lawrence the “highest grossing action movie heroine” for her role in the two “Hunger Games” films. Together, the franchise has grossed over $1.52 billion worldwide, according to Tech Times.

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Are you interested in the field of journalism? Do you have experience working with Adobe InDesign? The Houstonian is currently looking for a layout editor to work with the staff for the Fall 2014 semester. This position would be paid and those interested can apply for the position online on Jobs 4 Kats using the job code 28585. Visit The Houstonian newsroom in the Dan Rather Mass Communication building room 210 or call at 936-294-1505 for more information.

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The Houstonian | HoustonianOnline.com/category/viewpoints | Thursday, Sept. 11, 2014

Page 4

Ray Rice: Victim or Abuser?

What’s the

TMZ’s video of Ray Rice’s infamous blow that knocked out his then fiancé Janay Palmer spread like wildfire across social media outlets, catapulting their relationship into the limelight. Palmer and Rice have since married and are fighting the media and the NFL together.

MICHELLE WULFSON Contributing Writer On Monday, Sept. 8th, TMZ’s video of NFL star Ray Rice’s infamous blow that knocked out his then fiancé Janay Palmer spread like wildfire across social media outlets, catapulting their relationship into the limelight. In response, Rice was dropped from the Baltimore Ravens and his future with the NFL is currently pending.

According to CBS News, prosecutors failed to put Rice on trial for felony aggravated assault following his indictment by a grand jury. Rice was simply placed into a pretrial intervention program for firsttime offenders, possibly avoiding jail time.

In fact, this is not the first time that the NFL has overlooked a domestic violence issue involving a professional athlete. According to CNN, on August 31st, San Francisco 49ers defensive end Ray

McDonald was arrested for domestic violence against his pregnant girlfriend who showed the police minor bruises along her neck and arms.

After making bail, McDonald received a slap on the wrist and team officials are still awaiting the outcome of his case before determining his punishment, if any.

CNN also reported that 85 out of 713 NFL players arrested since 2000 have been involved in domestic violence cases. So why does the NFL continue to have such a hard time punishing their players for violent crimes?

On July 28th, Rice received a standing ovation from Ravens fans at a training camp practice, praising his actions and his ability to “overcome” them as if he was the victim in the middle of speculation over his case.

I guess if you’re rich and famous it doesn’t really matter what you do, there will always be people out there cheering you and placing you on a pedestal.

Domestic violence victims stay with their abusers for various reasons. Some stay for money, some for fame, some for families, and others because they truly, honestly, think that they are loved.

Palmer and Rice have since married and are fighting the media and the NFL together in the name of “true love.”

So which reason is Janay Palmer’s?

I believe in true equality between genders, good and bad, however, I do not in

any way condone physical altercations.

True love shouldn’t hurt, and the fact that this couple is trying to play this off as such is disgusting. If an argument comes to the point of physical abuse, it should be a warning that the relationship isn’t meant to be.They are teaching young boys and girls everywhere, and their 2-year-old daughter, that this is okay, and that this is love.

We live in a world where women are told that “boys will be boys,” making it okay for society and especially those held in the media spotlight to receive special treatment.

We are “girls,” which really means that we are weak, that we are responsible for others’ actions, and that the very fact that we exist is asking for whatever abuse is thrown our way. Janay Palmer is one of many victims of abuse, one who had a chance to make a difference and yet I find her defending her abuser just as cowardly as the infamous blow.

As women we need to learn to protect ourselves. We need to learn to recognize signs of abuse, have control over our lives, and respect ourselves enough to say no.

Though this case is horribly unfortunate, the path to an abusive relationship is a two way street; at some point or another one side has to know when to say no, and though that is easier said than done, it could save a life.

Congress needs to go on record for our newest war COLIN HARRIS Guest Columnist Article 1, Section 8 of the Constitution reads in part, “(Congress shall have the power) To declare War, grant Letters of Marque and Reprisal, and make rules concerning Captures on Land and Water.”

The nation’s founders realized that although the president is the ultimate authority in deciding how America will fight a war, the power of declaring war should lie with the people’s representatives in the House and Senate.

This separation of powers is fundamental in our version of democracy, so why then has Congress abdicated this responsibility in refusing to vote on an Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF) for our air operations in Iraq and Syria to thwart the Islamic State (IS)?

Representative Jack Kingston (R-Ga.),

who is now running for Senate, offered more candor in his answer to this question than most would expect from someone who has spent the past twenty years working on Capitol Hill.

“It’s an election year,” Kingston said. “A lot of Democrats don’t know how it would play in their party, and Republicans don’t want to change anything. We like the path we’re on now. We can denounce it if it goes bad, and praise it if it goes well and ask what took him so long.”

Congress is no stranger to cynical motivations. This attitude is why we’re unlikely to see any legislation regarding immigration until after the November midterm elections.

However immigration is a more nuanced issue than bombing IS. The American public oscillates between plurality support for the Republican emphasis on border security and the Democratic preference for legalizing undocumented immigrants already in the country.

Contrast this to the 61 percent of Americans who support airstrikes against IS according to the latest Wall Street Journal/ NBC poll. You’ll rarely find a clearer mandate from a public fatigued by mission creep in the Middle East, yet Congress is content to allow a lame duck president accept all responsibility for foreign inter-

vention when inaction is the most logical route to secure their own reelection.

After our seemingly unsuccessful mission in post-Hussein Iraq and the effect this had on the GOP’s electoral results in the latter years of the Bush Administration, preemption as casus belli is electorally dubious, yet being a representative of the people necessarily requires making hard choices as a form of accountability.

During the 2008 Democratic primary, Barack Obama was able to differentiate himself from Hillary Clinton due to her vote in favor of the Iraq War Resolution in 2002. The simple act of going on record either in favor of or against various proposals is essential to maintaining an informed electorate. Without a vote on military action in Iraq in 2014, Congress is having their cake and eating it too.

To add to what Rep. Kingston said, it’s difficult for a politicians to denounce this war after the fact if their prior support is logged in the Congressional Record.

Whether you’re a Democrat or Republican, support airstrikes against IS or not, it’s imperative that our elected members of Congress vote yay or nay on this issue so that we can determine later on whether or not they are exercising sound judgment as stewards of the public trust.

D EAR DARLA...

Dear Advice Column, I can’t shut up on first dates. I just keep talking, and talking, and talking. I usually put my entire leg in my mouth and never hear from the girl again. What can I do? Duct tape my mouth shut?

Dear Anonymous, I’m sorry to read about your dating misfortune. While college can be the best place to meet people at the beginning of our adult lives, not all of us strike gold on the first, second, third… twelfth time. Woman love to be heard and shown genuine interest

in what they are saying. My advice to you is this: shut up and keep your feet on the ground. Not only do feet in the mouth stink up your breath but it will leave you chasing woman for the rest of your life. Eventually, a woman worthy of getting to hear about all the things you have to say will come along and she will find your constant chatter endearing but first, get to know her. Listen to her interest and learn about her hobbies and compliment her conversation with common interest of your own. Nothing is sexier than a man who wants to know

you, and not just the general you, but the small quirks and especially colloquialisms that make you who you are.

Practice self-control, starting with your mouth. If it really comes down to duct tape, I recommend at least using the kind with a cute print on it.

Need some advice? Email advice@houstonianonline.com or tweet #DearDarla to @HoustonianSHSU

WORD ON THE STREET? The world held their breath Tuesday in anticipation of the highly acclaimed iPhone update.

Some people wept with joy while others couldn’t care less.

So, what do you think about the new iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus?

KASEY MCGEE Freshman Kinesiology

“I feel that the iPhone 6 is overrated. It’s too much, the galaxy is a nice size. I think the price is absurd and I don’t care for it.”

“I’m team Android, but because of the iPhone 6 Plus, I want to get one. It’s bigger, gives a more professional look, and is more accessible. There is so much that you TIM STARLING can do with it.” Sophomore Musical Theater

“They are always coming out with new things, but it’s usually the same thing with different modifications. And they’re always increasing the price.”

YASELI ESQUIVEL Senior Mass Communication

“I think the new iPhone is great because it is an advancement with the technology. The only concern I have is when purchases are involved. People are sneaky CHANEL GREEN and if someFreshman one manages Criminal Justice to steal your phone then you’re in trouble.

Other than that, it’s cool and has a lot of advancements like the larger memory.”

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The Houstonian | HoustonianOnline.com/category/sports | Thursday, Sept. 11, 2014

Page 5

One milestone, two years, 1,000 kills AMSHI STEPHENSON Staff Reporter “Benchwarmers” do not usually see the court much or contribute to the team with breaking off the charts statistics. Their vivacious cheering of encouraging words and chants are often heard from the sidelines point for point, set for set, match for match, for every game. Benchwarmers are not typically placed in the starting rotation of a game the following season or looked at as competition from teammates or opponents.

This was senior Sam Houston State volleyball outside hitter Deveney Wells-Gibson. But not anymore.

“The material part of her game

seems to be catching up with her skill,” head coach Brenda Gray said. “She is physically stronger and more of a team player.”

Wells-Gibson went from being on the bench her freshman year to becoming the All-Southland Conference Player of the Year, two-time first team All-Southland Conference player, two-time Academic All-Southland player, three-time Southland “Player of Week” selection and the leading scorer of the Bearkats.

Two weeks ago at their home tournament, Wells-Gibson reached the 1,000 kill milestone a milestone only 23 former players have been able to reach in SHSU volleyball history.

Wells-Gibson sat the bench her

freshman year but came in to serve from time to time. She totaled 22 kills the entire season, which is hard to believe now because she almost averages that every game.

Reaching the 1,000th kill was a surprise to Wells-Gibson.

“I did not even know about it until Tayler told me on the way to Denver,” she said.

Leading by example and positive energy took her benchwarming duties to a whole new level. She has been the team captain for two seasons and played a major role in the Bearkats winning the SLC championship title back in 2012.

Wells-Gibson works hard every day to not only better herself but the team.

Men’s, women’s golf fare well at tourney RYAN REYNOLDS Staff Reporter The Sam Houston State men’s golf team finished fifth overall at the Sam Hall Intercollegiate while the Bearkats women’s team ended in sixth at the FedEx Memphis Invitational Tuesday.

Going into Tuesday, senior Zach Cabra was in fifth place after shooting a 68 in the first round and a 73 in the second round. After a tough sixth hole that led to a triple bogey in the second round, Cabra shot a 74 in the third round, which dropped him to finish tied for 28th.

“I feel I played okay this week,” Cabra said. “[I] started the tournament off really good but couldn’t continue the momentum throughout the tournament. I need to continue to work hard and get to where I need to be in order to help this team win.”

On the other hand, senior J.T. Taylor had a strong return to the green after redshirting in 2013.

Taylor ended seventh individually after a mediocre 72 score on the first 18 holes.

Starting the second round tied for 21st place, sophomore Klein Klotz climbed back in the standings in the last two rounds. He shot a 73 in the second round and a 68 in third round. Klotz skyrocketed up the individual leaderboard and finished 11th overall.

Teammates sophomore transfer Andrew Ertel and freshman Jake McCrory had solid scores in second and third rounds, but couldn’t find top 20 finishes, ending the tournament at 36th and 75th, respectively.

Ertel shot a 69 in the second round and a 71 in the third round while McCrory shot a 73 before a 76 to end the tournament.

“We finished the tournament under par and in a good position,” Cabra said. “We realize that a couple shots here and there kept us from winning, but we learn from that. It was an overall good performance to start the year.”

Senior Logan Boatner competed individually and finished 70th.

Head coach Brandt Kieschnick said the tournament was a great event and showed of his talented defending Southland Conference championship team.

SHSU topped Conference USA’s Rice and University of Texas – San Antonio and Southeastern Conference Mississippi State.

“I’m really proud of the guys for having a chance to win,” he said.

“They stuck to a great game plan.”

In the women’s tournament, sophomore Paige Nelson had the best overall performance on the team. Her play was consistent as she shot a 70 in the first round, 73 in the second and a 74 in the third round. Nelson finished tied for sixth.

Senior Alisa White wasn’t far behind her teammate in the leaderboard, finishing tied for 8th. Junior Nicole Budnik celebrated her birthday Tuesday tied for 35th.

Sophomore transfer Celeste Lo ended her first tournament as a Bearkat at a tie for 43rd. Freshman Sarah Black ended her first collegiate tournament at the bottom for the Kats at 55th with a final score of 24-over par.

The men’s team will return to action Sept. 28 in Wisconsin. The women’s te will hit the course next week at Monore, La.

Alex Broussard | The Houstonian

KILLING MACHINE. Practice makes milestone. Senior outside hitter Deveney Wells-Gibson has been a key player in Sam Houston State’s starting rotation. Most recently, Wells-Gibson snagged her 1000 kill at home.

Lillie Muyskens | The Houstonian

The Houstonian | Thursday, Sept. 11, 2014

Page 6

T HE J U M PS —

DRUMS, page 2

On average, each corps practiced 12 hours per day at four-hour blocks with one hour meal breaks in between. After some calculation, Gagner said he estimates roughly 850 hours of preparation for a 12 minute show.

“The thing that surprised me the most about DCI was how many people out there actually appreciate what we do,” Gagner said. “I couldn’t tell you how many towns would shut down when DCI rolled into town. With all the corps staying at different high schools, the students from those schools and schools from around that area would have their kids in the stands just to watch us rehearse for the show that night. There is just so much fan appreciation for the performers.”

Harvin estimated that after traveling to over 20 different states, his corps performed for roughly 300,000 nationwide.

More importantly than the fans they performed for however, were the fellow musicians they performed with.

“I can’t really express into words the huge amount I have benefitted,” Harvin said. “I’ve already gotten several job offers to go teach different drum lines at different high schools. I’ve also gained a family of 150 other people that I can call brother and sister for life.”

Harvin is not the only one who concurred with this mentality.

“I have made so many new friends and connections with band directors and other music education students,” Reebenacker said. “The drum corps world truly is a small world. I learned how to work with several different personalities and different rehearsal techniques. I’m so excited to start working with them as a staff member and continue to see this organization improve. I’m also excited to see what the future holds as far as my career is concerned.”

For Gagner, both the memories and friendships he has made through DCI this summer will forever remain in his heart—especially the conclusion of his entire experience.

“All the hard work, sweat, tears and pain are all for this one last performance,” Gagner said. “It’s an emotional ride the whole season; nothing else matters but that moment. Walking into the stadium one last time knowing I won’t get to perform with that same group of people ever

again and that I put in so many countless hours and hard work for that one moment of happiness. It feels like I truly have accomplished something amazing.”

—

DRIVING, page 1

hopefully it will make people think twice.”

Sherbenou said CORE and other programs within UPD are averaging three presentations per-week.

RESOURCES Since 2004 the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Initiative (ADAI) has educated students on alcohol and drugs. ADAI Coordinator Edward Gisemba said the alcohol industry has had a “very large and profound” impact on student behavior with alcohol.

To encourage using designated drivers, ADAI has revamped its iDrive program in conjunction with local bars and clubs in Huntsville. The program offers free soft drinks for individuals who are designated drivers to incentivize students to continue to be safe.

However, Gisemba said SHSU and Texas are unique when it comes to transportation.

“The thing that really makes Texas unique is the fact that you have a lack of public transportation,” Gisemba said.

“Sam Houston is not atypical from a lot of universities around the country. Party is an aspect of colleges essentially everywhere … since everything is spread out, coupled with the lack of public transportation, if you’re going to go out you have essentially no choice but to drive.”

To add different transportation options for students, Gisemba and ADAI are working to implement a car pool program, similar to Texas A&M’s Caring Aggies R Protecting Over Our Lives (CARPOOL) initiative. Gisemba said the program would be a free non-judgmental car service to ensure students have a safe way to get home.

Gisemba said he was met with SHSU risk management and legal counsel to cover liabilities but stressed student activity is imperative to move the program forward.

“Education is important but it’s not the end all be all,” he said. “We need to have permanent programs in place that are being managed.”

ADAI is offering an Alcohol and Drug Summit Friday in the Loman Student Center from 9 a.m. – 4:15 p.m.

Come check out the largest job fair on campus, Wednesday September 24, 2014 at Johnson Coliseum from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Professional attire is required and be sure to bring copies of your resume!

A Special Thanks To Our Corporate Sponsors

Upcoming Fall 2014 Events Career Expo Kick-Off Party Tuesday, September 16 LSC Mall Area | 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Victim Studies Career Fair Thursday, October 16 Criminal Justice Building- Lobby | 10 a.m.- 2 p.m.

Mock Interview Day Thursday, October 2 Career Services AB-IV | 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

What is Your Story?

Wednesday, November 5 Business & Community Relations Panel LSC Room 315 | 3 p.m. - 4:20 p.m

What is Your Story?

Thursday, November 6 Educational & Social Services Panel College of Education Bldg | 11 a.m.- 12:20 p.m.

Public & Governmental Services Panel Criminal Justice Courtroom | 3 p.m. - 4: 20 p.m.

STEM & Health Sciences Panel LSC Room 313 | 2 p.m. - 3:20 p.m.

Fall Teacher Job Fair Wednesday, October 8 Johnson Coliseum | 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.