The Houstonian

Vol 116— Issue 13

Huntsville, Texas

Kats ready to rally Count down begins for centennial homecoming celebration

Thursday, October 7, 2010

SGA passes anti-discrimination legislation and removes senator

By Mike Silva Sports Editor

Sam Houston State University will begin its 100th year of homecoming with a kickoff rally in the Lowman Student Center mall area at noon on Monday.

University President Dana Gibson and head football coach Willie Fritz will speak to students and alumni, accompanied by the SHSU athletics teams and players.

The homecoming kickoff rally will include SHSU cheerleaders, the Orange Pride dance team and Sammy the Bearkat.

The 2010 Homecoming King and Queen nominees will also be introduced.

“Our goal in having the kickoff rally is making students aware of what homecoming is all about,” Brandon Cooper, assistant director of student activities, said.

“This event will get homecoming started out on the right track, he said. “The kickoff rally is the first of many homecoming activities scheduled throughout the week.

— See RALLY, page 3

By Stephen Green Contributing Writer

File photo | The Houstonian

CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION. Last year SHSU honored 50 years of Sammy the Bearkat. This year’s theme celebrates the 100th year anniversary of Homecoming and will kick-off on Monday in the mall area with SHSU cheerleaders, the Orange Pride dance team and Sammy the Bearkat.

The 2010 Homecoming King and Queen nominees will also be introduced during the kick-off rally. Other events planned include Wednesday’s Sam Jam Carnival at Holleman Field, the SHSU Homecoming Parade on Thursday, and the football game on Saturday at 2 p.m.

ELITE program guides freshman minority males towards graduation

By Janice Richardson Contributing Writer

Minority men made up just above one-third of the incoming freshman in Fall 2009, and a new program has been designed to level the playing field and ensure that those freshmen minority men

who do enroll start off on a path to success.

Sam Center staff associate Candi Harris started a pilot program at Sam Houston State University called the Establishing Leadership In and Through Education, or ELITE. The program is designed as a support system to help minority male freshman.

“Right now, minority men are at the bottom of the totem pole when it comes to [enrolling] in college,” Harris said.

Harris said she started this program after noticing the low percentage of incoming freshmen minority males at SHSU. Harris, who said she is a passionate advocate of

minority male students in their journey towards graduation, often refers to ELITE members as “her boys.” Harris said that her boys are very dedicated students who frequent the math labs as well as the writing and reading centers.

— See ELITE, page 3

The Establishing Leadership In and Through Education, or ELITE, is part of a national initiative designed to help minority male freshman on their journey towards graduation and is largely funded by a grant.

On Tuesday, the Student Government Association voted to show their support Chris Armstrong, student at the University of Michigan.

Armstrong, the president of the student assembly at the University of Michigan, has been the target of many malicious attacks from Michigan Assistant Attorney General, Andrew Shirvell, for being openly gay.

Shirvell attacks what he calls Armstrong's “radical homosexual agenda,” and has posted photoshopped pictures of Armstrong with rainbow flags and swastikas on his blog, called “Chris Armstrong Watch.”

The legislation, authored by SGA Chief of Staff Kendall Scudder, states that no student should ever be subjected to discrimination based upon the race, gender, or sexuality.

“It is unacceptable for any individual who is fairly elected by the student body to be treated this way,” Scudder said.

“Especially by the state officials who are elected to protect the rights of the students.”

SGA passed the legislation unanimously.

Also at the meeting, the senate voted to remove Senator Mariel Kanene from the College of Business. Charges were brought against Kanene for having excessive absences.

The vote to remove Kanene was 17 yes and 8 abstain.

Courtney Craig was also confirmed as the new Rules and Regulations Chief after being nominated by SGA President Ryan Bridges.

Panhellenic presents a mother’s account of acquaintance rape and depression

By Meagan Ellsworth Editor-in-Chief

On New Year’s Eve 1995, Kristin Cooper, a 20-year-old Alpha Chi Omega sorority member, committed suicide after being raped by a friend.

Three years later, Kristin’s mom, Andrea, decided to share her daughter’s tragedy with college students across the country.

Tonight, Cooper will share “Kristin’s Story” at 7:30 p.m. in the LSC The lecture is sponsored by the Alpha Chi Omega, Zeta Tau

By Ejay Miranda

Contributing Writer

The Zeta Tau Alpha sorority has come together for their annual Think Pink Week.

Monday kicked off the event filled week in the LSC Mall area and will continue to be held each day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

“The Delta Zeta chapter chose to host a Think Pink! week on campus,” said Marisa Eaves, a senior for the Zeta Tau Alpha sorority. “By selling Kats for the Cause tshirts, passing out breast cancer information and holding several contests, we hope to raise money & awareness at SHSU.” Kats for the Cause t-shirts are available throughout the week for $10.

Pink honor/memorial balloons , recognizing those that have a loved one experiencing breast cancer, will also be available for a $1.

Voting began on Tuesday for the “Guy’s Best Chest” contest.

Participating males sent in pictures of their chest, which are on display in the LSC Mall area throughout the week.

Students pay $1 to vote for their top three pictures.

A Yoplait yogurt eating contest took place on Wednesday.

Entrants are pitted against each other in an effort to consume the most amount of yogurt in the allotted time.

“Through these events, we are looking to contribute to our national philanthropy and promote Zeta Tau Alpha's support of breast cancer through the Think Pink name, “ Eaves said.

For more information about ZTA and their Think Pink! program, you can visitwww. zetataualpha.org

Alpha, Sigma Sigma Sigma, Alpha Delta Pi sororities in order to raise awareness about domestic violence.

“Kristen was an Alpha Chi Omega who was in a domestically violent relationship,” Rider said. “She committed suicide because she had no control of her life.

“Alpha Chi Omega’s philanthropy is domestic violence, and that is why this story is so dear to our hearts.”

One in four women are affected by domestic abuse and violence, according to Sara Rider, Alpha Chi Omega

Incidence of College Dating Violence Information courtesy of the National Center for Victims of crime •

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Photo Courtesy of Joe Buvid

HIGH FIVE. Kym Loving(left) and Carli Kolbe (right) celebrate a five- set, Southland Conference win against Stephen F. Austin Lumberjacks on Wednesday night in Johnson Coliseum.

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Become a fan of The Houstonian on Facebook

INDEX

Follow us on Twitter @HoustonianSHSU

Sports....................page 5

Viewpoints................page 2 Special...................page 6

Campus.................page 3 Lifestyle................page 7 Entertainment........page 4 Special...................page 8

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32% of students report dating violence by a previous partner, and 21% report violence by a current partner.

39%-54% of dating violence victims remain in physically abusive relationships.

12% of completed rapes, 35% of attempted rapes, and 22% of threatened rapes occur on a date.

60% of acquaintance rapes on college campuses occur in casual or steady dating relationships.

An estimated 5% of college women experience a completed or attempted rape in a given year.

In one year, more than 13% of college women indicated they had been stalked, 42% by a boyfriend or ex-boyfriend.

51% of college males admit perpetrating one or more sexual assault incidents during college.

member and vice president for the National Panhellenic Council.

The SHSU Counseling Center will be on hand for students to talk about domestic violence that has affected them or people they know.

Free wristbands and T-shirts will be given at the event.

For more information, contact SaraRider at sbr003@ shsu.edu or visit http://www. kristinsstory.com/.

VIEWPOINTS

Page 2 The Houstonian

Thursday, October 7, 2010

The almighty dollar Editorial: Sean Goree Houstonian Guest Columnist During my first month of college, I was reminded that I needed money. I was so occupied with freedom I neglected to realize the need for an occupation.

Learning the difference between freedom and independence was as important a lesson as it was frustrating.

Honestly, a part of me did not want the commitment that a parttime job would require. I remained mesmerized by the late night adventures of anything prohibiting academic productivity.

My delusion eventually ended when my mother explained that money is not a commodity when it comes to random requests.

Applications and interviews ruled my

thoughts as my refund check slowly diminished, stress replaced my dorm room comfort.

I started to question whether I was prepared to juggle school and what I considered to be a social life with a part-time job.

The majority of my friends felt having a job and a full schedule of classes at such an early point in my college career was hazardous. I thought either I would eventually settle into a reasonable work schedule that didn’t interfere academically, or I would crash and burn in a fire of ineptitude and poverty.

The latter scared me enough to fumble over my words when I accepted my first interview offer

Letter to the Student Body

Be sure to vaccinate

Jason Plotkin Class of 2005 independently.

I consider this one of my first acts of true initiative; an everyday occurrence but it always stands out in my mind because it reflected personal growth.

I gradually found a flexible medium that allowed school and studies to co-exist with enough time for ample rest or spending time with friends.

This may be a story given in hindsight but as a senior picking the last hours off my degree plan, I may experience the same uncertainty this winter as a college graduate.

The idea of acting upon my desires will keep me as warm as the jacket I grab on the way to a greater quality of life.

As a proud alum of Sam Houston State, I wanted to take some time to write all of my fellow Bearkats and encourage them to get the flu shot this year.

My brother, Raymond Plotkin was a healthy freshman attending the University of New Mexico last fall when he was stricken by the H1N1 flu virus.

In October 2009, H1N1 vaccines were not available to the general public.

Raymond had his seasonal flu shot, but he was not protected against the H1N1 strain.

Tragically, Raymond became sick with the virus, entered UNM Hospital on Nov. 7 and died Nov. 11. H1N1 attacked Raymond’s heart and

lungs.

He had no pre-existing conditions in terms of H1N1.

Like I did during my time at SHSU, my brother lived on campus and was enjoying all the University life had to offer.

This year, the seasonal flu shot has protection against H1N1 and another flu strain.

I urge everyone who is able to get their flu shots this year to do so and take one for Raymond.

Raymond wasn’t able to get H1N1 protection last year, but you can do it this year to honor his memory and the memory of those who have lost their life from H1N1 and the seasonal flu.

My family has been

changed forever without my brother in our lives any longer. However, my family is doing what we can to ensure that this doesn’t happen to any other student or their family.

I applaud SHSU and the Health Center for making flu shots accessible to everyone.

While this opportunity may have passed for now, there are plenty of others in the greater Huntsville community to get a flu shot.

Thank you for your consideration and Eat’em up Kats!

Comedy Corner

Dear Sam Houston Students, Staff and Faculty and Alumni:

The Houstonian would not survive were it not for the continued involvement and dedication of the SHSU student body. We welcome all column submissions and letters to the editor. If at any time you feel the need to express an opinion, please do not hesitate to email your thoughts or drop by our office in the Dan Rather communications building. We look forward to hearing from you and thank you as always for your continued support of the Houstonian.

Brandon Scott Viewpoints Editor bscott@houstonianonline.com

Paws Up, Paws Down With the Thanksgiving break approaching,

we at The Houstonian decided to lighten the mood take a of look at the not-so-serious In thisand section the Viewpoints side of Turkey Day. After all, we all need page, we take a look at some various something funny to get us through the days news stories around campus and give with crazy families.

the parties involved either a “paws up” for a good job, or a “paws down” for a not so good job.

“Paws UP” to the volleyball team taking SFA down in five sets after dropping the first one. Eat em up, eat em up!

Comic courtesy of comics.com

Bullying: Even politically abusive In the past week, five, count it, five underage homosexuals have killed themselves. It’s sad, is it ever so sad, that these people are killing themselves. And when we hear it people are shocked, they can’t believe it.

They don’t understand why these people are killing themselves, but it’s so obvious.

We have policies, set mainly by republicans that are politically pushing around homosexuals.

I laugh when I see these republicans saying they are worried, worried that these young people are dying and they want to stop bullying.

They want to tell these kids that the bullying will stop after they leave high school, but will it?

According to the Republicans openly gay people cannot serve in the

military. Not only that, school the teasing stops. but they can’t have the The hatred stops. But it basic right to get married. doesn’t.

How is that for bullying?

America, if nothing It’s funny that they don’t else, is consistent. The see it. They don’t get that country is filled with hathey are the bullies. tred, and white males Of course there is go- who bully others. It starting to be bad treatment of ed early, with the Native homosexuals at Americans. The the smaller level, Indians were why wouldn’t killed, almost a there be. complete genoThey see the cide. Equivalent law makers, the if not worse than senators, people what the Nazi’s like Newt Gindid to the Gergrich say that mans. these people They then shouldn’t have turned to the basic rights andLOTIS BUTCHKOBlacks, enslaving then they follow along. them and lynching them.

It’s despicable.

Treating them as someThere are not enough thing less than human, words to describe how blacks weren’t allowed bad this is. But recently at the school, to vote, to gay celebrities have tak- live a decent life. They en to the internet to talk were never given a shot. about how it gets better, After decades of trying they say that after high to fix that, and we really

still aren’t there. America moved to it’s next pick.

Women.

Women were never treated well but as men tried to block their basic rights of voting and abortion it was the general public’s next victim.

But now that women, and blacks are starting to get better treatment… the latest victim has come out.

Homosexuals and Hispanics have become the new target. The saying goes that we must learn from history or we are doomed to repeat it.

Seems like we need tutorials.

Lotis Butchko is the Sports Reporter for The Houstonian.

He is a senior Print Journalism major, English minor.

The Houstonian “Paws DOWN” to bullying.

Even on the collegiate level, this is a dangerous offense.

Editorial EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Meagan Ellsworth...............................................................936-294-1505 FACULTY ADVISOR Robin Johnson.....................................................................936-294-1499 SECTION EDITORS

“Paws UP” to the football team’s two game winning streak and first road victory since 2008.

Jessica Priest..................................................................Associate Editor Brandon Scott..............................................................Viewpoints Editor Mike Silva...........................................................................Sports Editor Thomas Merka........................................................Entertainment Editor Jared Wolf.......................................................................Graphic Designer STAFF Lotis Butchko.................................................................Sports Reporter John Rudolph.......................................................................Photographer Jessica Gomez......................................................................Photographer Erin Peterson.......................................................................Copy Editor

Advertising BUSINESS MANAGER

Brittany Hampton...........................................................936-294-1500

“Paws DOWN” to being the EDITOR who wakes up at 5:30 a.m. in the morning to deliver the paper.

STAFF Branden Price.....................................................Advertising Manager Kyle Mackey............................................................Account Executive Chelsea Boyd..........................................................Account Executive

Advertising Deadlines

Tuesday’s Issue............... Friday at 2:00 p.m.

Thursday’s Issue........... Tuesday at 2:00 p.m.

Campus

Thursday, October 7, 2010

CRIME TIME

The Houstonian, Page 3

UPD leads high speed chase, Reslife cracks down on K2

By Jessica Priest

Associate News Editor Dept. Chief James Fitch gave the following accounts of arrests made throughout the month of September: • An 18-year old man was arrested at the Jolly Fox nightclub on Sept. 3. Deputy Chief James Fitch, the arresting officer, said he was working an extra job at the club when he took university student Patrick Ray Dunford into custody at 1:50 a.m. Dunford was arrested on suspicion of disorderly conduct/fighting and taken to Walker County Jail. The cause of the fight is still unknown.

• An 18-year old student was found intoxicated at the Jackson Shaver residence hall on Sept. 11. UPD officers, which arrived on the scene 5:26 p.m., arrested Korey Nowark, a university student, for public intoxication, which is a class C misdemeanor.

• A 23-year old female was stopped for a traffic violation at the 1700 block of Sycamore Ave. on Sept. 5. Upon further investigation, UPD officers said they found the non-university student in possession of marijuana. Dana Johnson was arrested on suspicion of possession of marijuana, a class B misdemeanor.

• A university student was found to be intoxicated on Sept. 16 at 1:13 a.m. Jonathon Minchew, an 18-year old university student found at Sam Houston Village, was arrested on suspicion of public intoxication of a minor.

• An 18-year old was arrested on suspicion of possession of drug paraphernalia on Sept.

16 at 10:22 p.m. Everardo Manrique, an SHSU student, was initially stopped for a traffic violation at the 2100 block of Ave. I. • Walker County Medical Services was

K2 spices up dorm hall

contacted Sept. 20 in response to a female student who became disoriented after smoking the legal marijuana synthetic known as “K2.” However, the female refused medical treatment.

She was among three other university students, an additional female and two males, who were found in possession of the drug at the SHV dorm hall.

The students were not arrested, as K2 is currently legal in the state of Texas, but they will face disciplinary action. An incident report was forwarded to the Dean of Students Office.

“K2 is not illegal because the state of Texas has not said it’s illegal,” Deputy Chief James Fitch said. “However, Residence Life is in the process of [prohibiting] the use of the drug in the dorm halls.”

Residence Life Director Joellen Tipton could not be reached Tuesday to confirm this statement.

• A non-university was arrested on suspicion of evading arrest, a class A misdemeanor, and public intoxication on Sept. 22. Kyle Cox, 22, was found intoxicated at the front entrance of Belvin Hall. An investigation is ongoing.

• A Huntsville resident was found in the possession of marijuana outside of Johnson Coliseum on Sept. 24. UPD was initially dispatched to the location in reference to suspicious activity at 12:16 a.m. There, they found Raymond Pace Jr., 23. Pace was arrested for the possession of marijuana, a class B misdemeanor.

• Two individuals were arrested at Jack in the Box, located at 2259 Sam Houston Ave., on Sept. 26. UPD was initially called to the location in reference to a disturbance.

There, Christopher Cole, a 24-year old nonstudent, of Houston, was arrested for public intoxication and disorderly conduct, after exposing his penis to the drive-thru window clerk.

Cole was not charged for indecent exposure at the situation did not merit it, Fitch said.

“Indecent exposure basically says that the person has to have to the intent to arouse or gratify the sexual desire, and they are reckless as to whether someone will be offended,” Fitch said.

Additionally, Morgan Lewellen, 19, a nonuniversity student, was arrested for public intoxication of a minor. Both were taken to Walker County Jail.

High speed chase halted • UPD led the combined effort to capture a suspect, who fled the scene of an attempted aggravated robbery and theft in Montgomery County last week.

Fitch said a high speed chase began on Sept. 28 at 10:46 p.m., at the campus of Sam Houston State University shortly after the Huntsville Police Department issued an “attempt to locate” to local authorities. The Walker County Sheriff’s Office also assisted.

After the warning was issued by HPD, UPD Officer Sam Goodbread located the vehicle.

“When he ran the license plate, he found the car was stolen out of Montgomery county,” Fitch said.

“He attempted to stop the vehicle [but was unsuccessful], and the chase began.”

The man, later identified as Kelly Castlino, a non-university student, traveled at speeds up to 85 miles per hour, and was ultimately caught at Park Road 40, the Huntsville State Park.

“As the suspect was trying to leave the park, he crashed through some

gates and spike strips,” Fitch said. “After going through both of those, he lost control of his vehicle, hit a tree and was ejected from the car.”

Castlino was lifeflighted to Memorial Herman Hospital, where he spent a couple days recovering from his minor injuries, Fitch said.

He was charged with evading arrest and the unauthorized use of a motor vehicle. Castlino was also out on a bond from Grimes County, which has since been revoked. Additionally, he may face attempted aggravated robbery and theft charges, Fitch said.

• An 18-year old was arrested by a UPD officer at the 1700 block of Ave. I on Oct. 1 at 1:26 a.m. The student, Aman M. Abdulaziz, was charged with tampering with evidence, assault on a public servant, possession of marijuana and resisting arrest.

From ELITE page 1

Jessica Gomez | The Houstonian

PREVENTATIVE CARE: SHSU student Nicole Curlee receives her flu shot with the help of Health Center employee Christina Miles on Wednesday.

Many students vaccinated, despite low flu concern

By Jessica Priest Associate News Editor More than 800 students received free influenza vaccinations this week, despite the fact that the flu has not remained a hot topic in the media this year.

“There was definitely a good turn out especially since there hasn’t been a big H1N1 scare,” said acting Health Center Director Sarah Hanel.

“There haven’t been any crazy flu scares or anything right now, so we actually did really well [Tuesday] and

From RALLY page 1 Other events planned include Wednesday’s Sam Jam Carnival at Holleman Field, the SHSU Homecoming Parade on Thursday, and the football game on Saturday at 2 p.m., when the Bearkats will host Southland Conference foe Southeastern Louisiana.

Game-day activities will begin at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, when Bearkats can have coffee with Gibson during “Pregame with the President” in Austin Hall.

After the tailgate, football fans can head to Bowers Stadium to show their school spirit during the tailgate party at Bearkat Alley at noon. Free food and giveaways will be available on behalf of student groups and organizations.

“Homecoming is always

[Wednesday.]”

Last year, there were several confirmed cases of H1N1, also known as the Swine Flu. However, the exact number is still unknown, Hanel said.

This is the tenth year the health center has offered free vaccines to the university. The funding for this wide-scale operation is provided by the health center’s medical services fee. Now, health center officials look forward to providing the service to university faculty and staff.

“We are currently waiting on our shipments [to arrive], so [the time and location of the vaccine’s distribution] is all to be determined,” Hanel said.

a fun part of the year,” junior Ashley Skates said. “I look forward to everything planned for next week. It should be a lot of fun this year taking part in the 100th homecoming at Sam.” Throughout the week, SHSU departments can join in on the festivities with the annual office-decorating contest.

Entries will be judged on Oct. 12 based on creativity.

The winning office will receive a plaque to display for an entire year, and coffee and bagels compliments of Einstein Bros. Bagel.

“Homecoming is such an important event because it brings alumni back and gives students the opportunity to interact with them,” Cooper said. “It provides a good demonstration on what being a Bearkat is all about.”

In addition to fighting the flu, the Health Center will also work in conjunction with Zeta Tau Alpha, a sorority whose philanthropy is breast cancer awareness. On Thursday, Oct. 14, they will set up a booths with Recreational Sports in Pink Out Health Fair. The event, which will take place in LSC Mall Area from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., will seek to provide students with information on different types of cancer.

For more information on the Health Center, visit its web site at www.shsu. edu/~uhc_www or call its office at 936-294-1805.

Want to write for the Houstonian?

E-mail jpriest@houstonianonline.com.

“Seeing that the program incorporates study skills, it really does help,” Travis Chambers, an ELITE member, said. “I thought that it was a great opportunity for me being a freshman and a minority male, to get into a program that is [both] encouraging and a backbone for me to always go to, especially in my first year.”

While some students question why the group doesn’t include all minority freshman or even all freshmen, others point out that targeting a specific group that needs the help should get it.

“It’s a good thing, but it should definitely be open to all races,” sophomore James Hernandez said. “I'm a minority, but I don’t really have problems in school. If they are offering that extra help to [a certain group], then they should help everybody.”

Freshman Jordan Bizauskas agreed that anyone who struggles should be allowed to join.

"They should open it up to wider group of people,” Bizauskas said. “It's not just a certain group of people who have trouble; it’s everybody.”

Harris said that she developed the program specifically for minority freshmen men because she had the data and did the research to show that it was needed.

Paula Teague, president of Black Student Alliance, said she supports the program’s goal to assist the minority male freshman population.

“Minority men should have certain programs or organizations that are specialized to help them succeed because they have not always had an equal opportunity to get an education in the first place,” Teague said.

"It's not racist,” said Arielle Phillips, president of the SHSU chapter of the NAACP. “[ELITE] provides minorities a place of their own in their environment.”

Franisha Wells, who is a junior at SHSU, said that she didn’t think that the program is biased against women.

File photo | The Houstonian

“It's not really sexist because if you look at the statistics, minority men drop out of college more than minority women do,” Wells said. “So I can see why they need an extra focus on wanting to stay in school and completing.”

Harris used freshman orientation to recruit potential members. Students filled out a one page application, as well as a contract stating that they had to commit to weekly meetings, a monthly group meeting, one service project per month, turn in grade check forms and have an informal interview with Harris. Group meetings were instituted to continually encourage and motivate students throughout their freshman year.

“We talk to them often about encouraging each other, uplifting each other [and] not tearing each other down,” Harris said.

At the monthly group meetings, students have the opportunity to hear speakers such as Huntsville physician Dr. Curtis Montgomery, SHSU Parent/New Student Programs Coordinator Jesse Bernal, M.Ed., and Edgard Sanchez, a Sam Center advisor.

“When they get to see someone who can say ‘Look, I’ve been there and look where I am [now]’, it opens up their perspective,” Harris said.

Members are required to seek membership in any Greek organization until their sophomore year. Harris said that this ensures that students will be focused on their studies and will learn to manage in a new college environment.

Sam Houston ELITE is funded mostly through the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, the office of MISS, and Mr. Frank Parker, the vice president for Student Services. Harris said she hopes to pull in more funding in the coming years as the organization grows.

Harris also said she plans to expand the program to host more members, as well as a minority women’s organization.

“It’s all about closing the gaps [and] the initiative to level the playing field,” Harris said.

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ENTERTAINMENT

The Houstonian, Page 4

Thursday, October 7, 2010

Reminiscent “Nine”

Jessica Gomez | The Houstonian

SHSU Theatre Department exceeds expectations with fall production of “Nine”

By Thomas Merka

Entertainment Editor

When I heard that the SHSU Theatre Department selected ‘Nine’ for their fall musical, I wasn’t too enthused. I had never seen the show and had never heard much about it, other than second-

hand accounts on how the movie version of the show is terrible.

However, once again, our theatre department has managed to make me feel guilty. I’m sorry for ever doubting that this show would be anything less than spectacular.

I have to admit, as I sat in the Erica Starr Theatre watching this production, I was literally blown

Jessica Gomez | The Houstonian

MEMORIES. Guido Contini, played by SHSU theatre student Michael McClure, contemplates ending it all after his marriage and career take a downward turn.

away by the sheer talent that graced the stage.

The show focuses on Guido Contini, an Italian film-maker, as he struggles to salvage his failing career and crumbling marriage while being haunted with memories of his childhood and the women of his past and present.

By observing Guido’s situation and how his memories and the people he has encountered in his past affect his life, the audience is shown how everyone and everything we encounter in life affect who we are today.

The intriguing plot of this production is accompanied by one of the most beautiful scores I have ever heard. The melodies and choral arrangements in this show are haunting and leave you with an ethereal feeling that fits the theme of memories and past versus present.

Of course, a score is only as good as the people singing it but, luckily, this show acted as a tool to showcase the talents of the actors on stage. Each character fit each actor with such perfection that I felt like I was watching a musical that was written specifically for this cast.

Amidst the cast is Michael McClure who plays the lead character Guido Contini. You may remember McClure from his role as Mark in SHSU’s spring production of “Rent.” Living up to all expectations, McClure once again proved that he truly belongs on stage with a presence and voice that fills the theatre to its bursting point.

Another stand-out performance came from Madison Turner, who plays Liliane La Fleur. Her French accent and quirky character added comic relief to the intensity of the show and had me wiping tears of laughter from my eyes through the entire performance.

One thing that impressed me was the quality of the Italian accents in the show. Although the art of learning to speak as if you are from another culture eluded a couple of the cast members, the majority of the actors were thoroughly convincing with their accents.

The technical side of this production was just as stunning as the acting. The set and lights are designed to work together in such a way that they literally emanate different emotions and portray the fluidity of a memory or dream like

state.

Overall, I deem this production an overwhelming success for SHSU. It’s a sensitive and emotional work of art that will leave you pondering your past, present and future.

Performances of ‘Nine’ will run Thursday through Saturday, with curtain opening at 8 p.m. There will also be a matinee performance on Saturday at 2 p.m.

Also on Saturday, there will be an unveiling ceremony for the newly named Erica Starr Theatre.

The ceremony will take place at 6:45 p.m. and a reception will follow.

For more information or to reserve tickets, contact the University Theatre Center box office at (936) 294-1339.

Upcoming Productions “Dead Man’s Cell Phone” October 27-30 “Hamlet” November 17-20 “The Women of Lockerbie” December 8-11

Sound Check: Unknown Component

By Brandon Scott Viewpoints Editor

“Infinite Definitive” is an album made with the freespirited college student in mind and this record is a must listen, as its thoughtful lyrics stick with you even as the songs fade.

Keith Lynch is the voice and the music of his one-man

band, Unknown Component.

As a self-taught musician from Iowa City, Lynch has written more than 100 songs since 2002 and is releasing his eighth independent album under Unknown Component on Oct 12.

The music has a pop-rock feel to it, reminiscent of popular act, Radiohead. Even though Lynch’s vocals are

a bit unpolished, his sound is comparable to Billie Joe Armstrong of Green Day. Unknown Component introduces the album with a song titled Moving Out of Frame, in which the lyrics point out people’s eagerness to keep up with the changes in society. The song alludes to the irony that many remain the same because of the never-

ending cycle.

“Giving into action, they are rearranging blame, they are changing every day, they are what you want to say. Breaking into fractions, they are opening the safe, they are moving out of frame, they are reinventing change.”

The song ends in a noble way, encouraging listeners to think for themselves, instead of being swayed by frivolous pressures.

“When the danger of a stranger is oversimplified, the reaction is an action that leads to sacrifice, you can breathe and make it through the night, you can see with eyes uncompromised, the story in your mind,” are just some of the enlightening lyrics.

Unknown Component continues with the same theme in the song, Future Circles.

This track focuses on the conflict between who someone is, and who they think they should be.

The artist has a way of connecting with common people, which makes this record easy to listen to.

“There’s still no reason for thinking all the things that you do, your mind is still heavy with feelings for the people you knew, you never listen because reason is the truth of a few.”

In tracks four and five, the album presents its most inspirational pieces. The vocals are the weakest in A Heavy Heart or an Empty Stomach, but Unknown Component shows consistency with its solid lyrical content.

“Somewhere someone makes believe… everything is meant to be, I don’t know what’s in between all the spaces and the seams, but I know I’ll always dream and

Album cover courtesy of Keith Lynch | Unknown Component

that this is all I need.”

Every Measure and Space sounds more like karaoke than studio music, but it’s one of my favorites of the 10 tracks.

You can tell it was written with Lynch strumming his acoustic guitar.

No doubt in my mind, The Introduction is Arriving would be the featured single if this was to make it to the mainstream. This track is by far the catchiest and most rhythmic song on the album.

“Infinite Definitive” closes with its best-produced track in Electric Dissolution and Unknown Component finishes appropriately. There is a theme with this album that is consistent with insightful and relatable lyrics and this song confirms that.

“The timing of a serenade, the gift of giving dies, to operate in confidence while making up your mind The action of a compromise is

written and aligned, it tells the story penalized by ignorance and lies.”

It isn’t difficult to tell that this album was recorded in an independent studio with the orchestration of one person.

But Lynch is all over this record with something genuine and something real – something indie-pop listeners will value.

“Infinite Definitive” can be downloaded at www. unknowncomponent.com.

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SPORTS

Thursday, October 7, 2010

The Houstonian, Page 5

SLC showdown at Nicholls

By Mike Silva Sports Editor

The Sam Houston State football team begins Southland Conference play this weekend in Thibodeaux, La. Since beginning the season 0-2, the Bearkats (22) have found life and have rolled through their last two opponents in Gardner-Webb and Lamar. The next victim: Nicholls.

Much like SHSU, the Colonels have an elite running back at the helm of their offense. Jesse Turner leads the conference in touchdowns (seven) and is second in rushing yards to only one other player: Bearkats running back Tim Flanders.

With so much talent in the backfield for both teams, Saturday’s game promises for a lot of action on the ground.

However, the key factor that may separate the two teams

is the play of the passing offenses.

Over the last two games, the Kats’ air game has seen major improvements. Quarterback Brian Bell has thrown three touchdowns, and the team’s passing yards have slightly increased with each week.

Big plays in the passing game were nonexistent in the first two weeks of football.

SHSU’s average yards per completion has increased from about eight yards to about 15 yards per catch over the 2010 season.

Defense will also play a crucial factor into who comes out of Saturday’s game with a “W.” After allowing 90 cumulative points in its first two games, the Kats’ defensive unit has held opponents to just 24 points in SHSU’s last two wins.

In the conference opener for both teams, whoever wins the matchup battle wins the game.

SHSU FOOTBALL UPCOMING GAMES SATURDAY, Oct. 9 SHSU at Nicholls

STANDINGS

John Rudolph | The Houstonian

ON THE ROAD AGAIN. The Bearkats will play on the road for the fourth time in five games this year.

Edge:

The wide receiver position is a very young one for both teams. There are 12 freshmen combined between the Bearkats and the Colonels out wide.

Nicholls has a lot of options on the receiving end, with 13 different players having recorded receptions this year. However, the Colonels have just two players with more than 100 receiving yards this season: running back Jesse Turner and sophomore receiver Chucky Nichols.

On the other side, the Bearkats have a slew of young players that have impacted the air attack.

Richard Sincere, Seth Patterson, and Kevin Matthews (right) have all made big plays in the passing game. The Kats’ receivers combine speed and agility, and are dangerous in the open field against any opposing defense.

Nicholls has the second to last pass defense in the conference. SHSU will attack the Colonels’ shaky secondary throughSam Houston State out the conference opener.

Edge:

Photo courtesy of Joe Buvid

For the second consecutive year, the Bearkat volleyball team fought tooth and nail with the Stephen F. Austin Lumberjacks on the hard court.

Carli Kolbe played spectacularly, leading the Bearkats in a valiant effort with 26 kills to beat the Lumberjacks for the second consecutive year.

In the first game, Sam Houston State switched points with SFA. The Bearkats defense held tight keeping them in the game. SHSU committed 16 service errors, helping the lumberjacks keep the lead.

“We missed way too many serves,” said Head Coach Brenda Gray. “It’s very simple. It’s different when you don’t have a couple seniors out there to calm everything down.”

The Bearkats lost the first set, after a blown serve to give SFA the game.

Sam started the second set on fire, leading until the Jacks were able to tie the score at 11 all. Kolbe committed an error to give the tie to the jacks, but promptly turned around and had several kills to take the lead again.

“I am terrible at tipping,” Kolbe said.

“I just keep swinging and swinging.”

Sam got a late run at the end of the second set to go up by four points but, again, the service errors hurt

Edge:

The defenses

There were many question marks about the Kats’ defense coming into this season after a dismal 2009, but over the last two games, SHSU has silenced some critics.

The Bearkats have shut down opponents’ running games, giving them the number two run D in the Southland.

While SHSU’s passing defense struggled at first, it has improved over the year by creating pressure and forcing turnovers.

Nicholls’ defensive unit has had problems holding opponents in all phases of the game. The Colonels’, who alJohn Rudolph | low more than 450 yards per game, have The Houstonian the last ranked total defense in the league.

If the Bearkats continue to blitz and keep opposing quarterbacks on their toes, Nicholls will have problems moving the ball. The secondary, especially ball-hawk Victor Carmichael (right), John Rudolph | The Houstonian will flourish.

Sam Houston State

COMEBACK KIDS. After being down 2-1 to the rival Stephen F. Austin, Carli Kolbe, who led the Bearkats with 26 kills, leads SHSU to a five-set, Southland Conference victory at home.

Sports Reporter

The running backs

The biggest game within the game will be the battle of the Southland’s top running backs.

Tim Flanders (left), whose 453 rushing yards leads the SLC, has dominated defenses with his 6.4 yards per carry. The Colonels’ Jesse Turner, who averages 8.3 yards per rush, is second in rushing with 408 yards.

The two backs also lead the conference in touchdowns.

Both Flanders and Turner have six rushing touchdowns apiece, but Turner has one on the receiving end, giving him the total touchdowns edge.

The difference will be the play of the defenses.

SHSU is second in the SLC in rushing defense, and Nicholls is seventh. Flanders will have a field day against the Colonels’ D. Sam Houston State

John Rudolph | The Houstonian

Kats smack Jacks

By Lotis Bucthko

1-0 0-0 0-0 0-0

Nicholls Southeastern La. Northwestern State Lamar*

0-0 0-0 0-1 1-3

(2-2) (3-1) (3-1) (3-1)

(2-2)

(1-3) (1-3) (1-4) (2-3)

*eligible in 2011

Saturday’s game will showcase the two teams at the bottom of the Southland in passing offense. SHSU, who is in seventh with 590 yards, continues to get better each game.

Nicholls, whose passing ranks last in the league, features an offense that primarily runs the ball. The Colonels’ quarterback, LaQuintin Caston, averages just under 150 yards a game passing. But he can also run the ball, as he is in the top 10 in SLC rushing.

Considering both teams’ gameplans, the defenses will be defending the run this weekend. Look for the continually improving freshman quarterback Brian Bell (left) to make big throws down field to break the game wide open for the Bearkats.

Sam Houston State

The receivers

McNeese State Central Arkansas Stephen F. Austin Texas State

Sam Houston State 0-0

The quarterbacks

John Rudolph | The Houstonian

Kats Stats

SHSU. Sam finally closed the point out, winning on a disputable call 2523. The call was on the line and the Lumberjacks head coach Debbie Humphreys let the referee know about it.

The third set started out bad for the Bearkats as the Lumberjacks took a 5-1 lead, but Kaylee Hawkins’ defense got the Bearkats back in the game.

She led the team with 33 digs, adding to her already record setting play as libero.

“I felt like I didn’t play that good,” said Hawkins. “Until my coach told me that, I just tried to keep the ball in play, and dig everything. We played the game so close, and you can’t let anything fall.”

Sam lost the third set 26-24 after tying the game nine times and taking the lead twice.

Sam won the fourth set after trailing for the majority of it.

Sam pushed the game late, tied it at 20, gave up the lead and then tied it again at 23. Sam clawed their way back into the game, finally winning it (26-24) On the final point of the final set, Carli Kolbe was the last Bearkat to touch the ball giving the Bearkats the lead, 15-13.

This is the second year in a row that the Sam Houston Bearkats beat the Lumberjacks in five sets at home.

Edge:

VOLLEYBALL RESULTS WEDNESDAY, Oct. 6 Stephen F. Austin SHSU

STANDINGS EAST DIVISION Central Arkansas Lamar Nicholls Northwestern State Southeastern La. McNeese State

5-0 4-1 3-2 2-3 1-4 1-4

WEST DIVISION

(15-6) (8-8) (10-7) (10-7) (9-12) (6-13)

UTSA Texas State UT Arlington

4-1 3-2 3-2

(10-9) (10-9) (9-10)

Texas A&M-CC Stephen F. Austin

2-3 1-4

(7-11) (8-12)

Sam Houston State 2-3 (8-12)

SHSU SOCCER UPCOMING GAMES FRIDAY, Oct. 8

McNeese St. at SHSU

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LIFESTYLE

Thursday, October 7, 2010

Kat Krossword A-Okay Recipes Microwave Tacos Courtesy allrecipes.com

Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 10 minutes Ready in: 20 minutes

Ingredients: -1 pound ground beef -1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder -1/2 teaspoon salt -1/2 teaspoon garlic powder -1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper -1/4 cup water -8 medium taco shells, warmed -2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese -2 cups shredded lettuce -1/4 cup finely chopped onion -1 medium tomato, chopped taco sauce 1) Crumble the ground beef into a 1 1/2 quart casserole dish. Cover with glass lid. Cook in the microwave for 5 minutes on High. Drain, and stir in chili powder, salt, garlic powder, cayenne pepper and water. Cover and return to the microwave. Cook for another 3 to 4 minutes on High.

2) Fill each taco shell with about 2 tablespoons of the ground beef, then top with desired amounts of cheese, lettuce, onion, tomato and taco sauce.

If you have any story suggestions for this page or for suggestions for the Kat Krossword section. Contact Stephen Green at smg032@shsu. edu, or Kolby Flowers at kwf006@shsu.edu.

10 stars for “Nine”

The SHSU Theatre Department chose the “Nine” as its first musical of the fall semester. Performances of ‘Nine’ will run Thursday through Saturday, beginning at 8 p.m. in the Erica Starr Theatre. There will also be a matinee performance on Saturday at 2 p.m.

Jessica Gomez | The Houstonian

This is the solution for the crossword displayed on Sept. 21.

Mark The Date! presented by Student Activities

Monday, Oct. 11

Homecoming Kickoff Rally 12:00 p.m.

LSC Mall

Tuesday, Oct. 12

Make Your Own Ceramic 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

LSC Mall

Open Mic Night 7:00 p.m.

Austin Hall

Wednesday, Oct. 13

Sam Jam Carnival 7:00 p.m.

Holleman Field

Thursday, Oct. 14

Homecoming Parade 6:30 p.m.

Sam Houston Ave.

Saturday, Oct. 16

SHSU Bearkat Alley All 12:00 p.m.

Bowers Stadium North Parking Lot

Department of Student Activities 936.294.3861

www.shsu.edu/homecoming Sam Houston State University is a Member of The Texas State University System