The Independent Student Newspaper of Sam Houston State University Thursday, May 3, 2011
Vol 117— Issue 28
Winners announced, Page 5
All photos by Jessica Gomez | The Houstonian
Index
Viewpoints...................................page 2 Special.........................................page 3 News............................................page 4 Entertainment......................,.............page 5
Relay for Life..............................page 6 Sports...........................................page 7 Special..........................................page 8
Relay for life, Page 5
Bearkat Baseball Vs. Texas Southern: tonight at 6:30 p.m. in Don Sanders Stadium
#OBLiterated Students, nation debate impacts of al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden’s assassination
By Kolby Flowers Senior Reporter
In the aftermath of al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden’s death, new debates have emerged. “What happens next for the ‘War on Terror?’” “Americans understand the costs of war,” President Barack Obama said in a press conference Sunday night. “Yet, as a country, we will never tolerate our security being threatened, nor stand idly by when our people have been killed.” “On nights like this one, we can say to those families who have lost loved ones to al-Qaida’s terror: Justice has been done.” However, bin Laden’s death does not mark the end of the U.S. effort. “There’s no doubt that al-Qaida will continue to pursue attacks against us,” Obama said. “We must, and will remain vigilant at home and abroad.” Conner Marchell, a sophomore criminal justice major, agrees. “No, its not the end of the ‘War on Terror,’” Marchell said. “But it’s definitely a good milestone toward it. This snake has several heads.” “Should he have been buried at sea?” bin Laden’s body was buried at sea early Monday morning Huntsville time.
“The burial of bin Laden’s remains was done in strict conformance with Islamic precepts and practices,” adviser John Brennan said in a White House briefing. “It was prepared in accordance with the Islamic requirements.” “We early on made provisions for that type of burial and we wanted to make sure that it was going to be done, again, in strictest conformance.” While many Americans, including students here at SHSU, were upset by this news, others thought it was a safe idea. “The decision to bury him at sea is the safest and most secure option available,” Matt Thomas, graduate student, said. “If he wasn’t dead, we would most likely have already heard reports stating he was not by those closest to him.” Tim Jeske, senior criminal justice major, said that if bin Laden’s body was buried on land, it would become an “instant terrorist shrine.” — See DEBATE, page 4
Campus reacts Where were you when you heard about Osama bin Laden’s death and how did you feel? “I found out on Facebook that Osama bin Laden was dead. I saw someone post it, I went and watched the news, and it confirmed that he was dead. I’m glad that someone who hurt our country a lot is no longer alive. I’m not glad that he’s dead, but I’m glad that the person who messed with our country is no longer in control.” --Jenifer Bernstein Freshman Interdisciplinary Studies major
I was at my house in Cold Spring sitting on the couch and waiting on the conclusion of the apprentice. The thing kept popping up saying that Obama was going to give a speech to the nation. I thought something bad had happened, I was afraid something bad had happened. Then the news came and then of course reporters totally ruined the suprise. If I was the president I would have been upset because I would have wanted to tell America the news. The reporters totally ruined the suprise and I couldn’t believe it because then I had to flashback through the last 10 years and realize that I had gone from before I was even a teenager all the way half way through college since this has happened and now he’s finally dead. I couldn’t believe it. It took me completely suprised. I was flabbergasted to say the least. --John Toland Sophomore Communications major
I’m glad they found the guy and too bad they didn’t bring him back alive to try him, but they got the right guy--and they’ve got the proof. It’s a major accomplishment considering what happened when I was 45 years old and saw the towers collapse when I was in New Jersey. We did the right thing, at the right time, and we got the right guy. --Howard Levy Senior History major
When Osama bin Laden was killed I was laying on my couch. I feel like it’s not something that should be celebrated. If anything it brings about more fear against America. --Ravenn Johnson Sophomore Mass Communication major
AMERICA TRUMPS OSAMA. Shane Rankin and Michael Ritchie, Two junior, Alpha Tau Omega Criminal Justice majors, demonstrated their patriotic feelings surrounding Osama bin Laden’s death by hanging a United States flag around the statue of General Sam Houston in the campus mall area, early Monday morning.
Viewpoints
Page 2 Tuesday, May 3, 2011
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STAFF LISTING Robin Johnson
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Meagan Ellsworth EDITOR-IN-CHIEF (936) 294-1505
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Stephen Green VIEWPOINTS EDITOR
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Brandon Scott
SPORTS EDITOR
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Jessica Priest
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Key words: For shame
Adam Key criticizes dark celebration of ‘shining city’ “Yay bin Laden is dead.” “They finally killed that camel jockey.” “bin laden is dead!!! Burn in hell you sonofabitch!!!!” “Put Osama’s body on display across America so we can spit on that son of a bitch” The phrases above represent the vast majority of my Facebook newsfeeds Sunday evening. Osama bin Laden, the man who planned the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, is dead. By the looks of Facebook, you’d think we’d just won the Superbowl. But what are we really celebrating? Is the world more free now? Can we sleep sounder at night knowing that the world is a safer place? No. We’re not celebrating safety or liberty. What we are celebrating is simple: A man is dead and we are the ones who killed him. Both Presidents Obama and Bush finally agree on something. In statements released Sunday evening, they both claim that justice has been done now that bin Laden is dead. Nothing could be further from the truth. We could have easily captured him. We could have given him a fair trial represented by a competent attorney. We could have shown the world that despite the depths he was willing to go to hurt us, we would rise above. We could have been that shining city on a hill, where every person, no matter who they are, what color their skin is, who they pray to, or what they’ve done, gets due process under the law. We could have done justice. But we didn’t. We shot him in the head. We
Adam Key
Recurring Columnist might as well have flown a plane into the building he was hiding in. Outside the White House, there were huge crowds participating in a massive celebration following the President’s announcement. They cheered, waved American flags, and sang “We are the champions.” This was not planned. It was a spontaneous gathering of Americans from every walk of life coming together to celebrate the execution of another human being. Shortly after the Sept. 11 attacks, I remember seeing footage of Middle Eastern countries where their people filled the streets to celebrate that their people had killed some Americans. In truth, the two celebrations were not too different. There are those that argue that we’re not really celebrating the death of a person. They say that what we’re actually doing is feeling vindicated for the thousands of deaths
Student Government anticipates progress
bin Laden caused. While this may be true for certain people, you can be sure that the majority of those participating are actually happy that the man is dead. We could have been just as vindicated and felt just as safe if we had captured bin Laden and held him over for trial. Even the kangaroo court we gave Saddam would have been better than this. The only thing we accomplished with Osama’s execution was to make ourselves feel better and to show the world that a bullet to the head without a trial is what two Presidents believe is justice. No person should ever take joy in the death of another. Sometimes, we must kill in war, in self defense, or after a fair trial. But even when the death is justified, we should not be happy about it. We certainly should not celebrate it. And we definitely should not gather in the streets and sing “We are the champions.” Clarence Darrow, in his defense of two young men facing the death penalty, had some profound thoughts on this very issue. I cannot improve on Darrow’s words, so I will close with them: “I am pleading for the future; I am pleading for a time when hatred and cruelty will not control the hearts of men. When we can learn by reason and judgment and understanding and faith that all life is worth saving, and that mercy is the highest attribute of man.” - Key is a Houstonian recurring columnist.
Lotis Butchko New SGA Executive Board looks to accomplish SPORTS REPORTER
lbutchko@houstonianonline.com
more, encourage student involvement in meetings
Jessica Gomez PHOTOGRAPHER
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AD DEADLINES Tuesday’s Issue
Friday 5 p.m.
Thursday’s Issue - Tuesday 2 p.m.
SGA Executive Board-Elect Guest Columnists
Greetings Bearkats! As most of us know by now, the Student Government elections are finally over. While not all of the events surrounding these elections were pleasant, those events are good as gone and it’s now a new day at Sam Houston State University. During the campaigning period, the ticket of McKelvey, Eberhart, Williams, Crayton, and Williams promoted the saying of “weDOwork”. With this in mind, it’s essential that our fellow students know that the motto was not just a catchy slogan, but a look into our past and present work ethic, as well as a promise for the future. This academic year is coming to an end and before we know it, fall 2011 will be here, so we’ve taken this opportunity to update our student body on the coming year’s events. The “weDOwork” Executive Agenda is sectioned into the following categories: Pride, Success, Service, and of course, Tradition.
As you’ve noticed, these are the four elements representing the very foundation of this grand old university, so we figured that, in order to move forward in a strong and productive manner, it is best to start at the roots. The PRIDE initiative is designed to not only further build upon student pride for this university, but personal, moral, academic and professional pride as well. SUCCESS is geared towards the preparedness of our student body beyond graduation. With the implementation of more leadership training, future occupational networking, and graduate level entrance exam training, we feel as though our students will be able to thrive at an even greater rate than we’ve already seen once in the work field and/or when applying for graduate school programs. As we all know, “The Measure of a Life is it’s Service.” The 2011-2012 Student Government Association will be dedicating a great amount of time reaching out to the students more often and addressing issues such as child care, military service absences, central tutoring facilities, additional community based projects, improving upon the safety and maintenance of handicapped entrances, among other items. SERVICE is without a doubt sitting at the tip top of this Executive Agenda. Lastly and definitely not least, we realize that students want to leave behind more TRADITIONS that we, as well as future Bearkats, can be proud of. This too will be a priority for the upcoming year. As far as this administration is concerned, tomorrow starts today. As we’ve promised you the entire campaigning time, WORK will be done. Summer Senate meetings are open to the entire student body and will held at 6p in LSC 322 on the following dates: June 7, 21 July 5, 19 August 2, 16 In closing, we would like to express our deepest regards to all of the students who voted during this election period, regardless of whom you voted for. It is our belief that the members you have chosen to represent this university, Senate and Executive alike, are highly qualified to lead this student body to amazing heights across this state. However, we do ask for a few things in return: We ask that you stand beside us through anything that comes our way while at the same time holding this body accountable for each and every step we take. We’re looking forward to working for and with all 17,000 plus student members as well as faculty members of the Bearkat community. Let’s go to work!
“weDOwork... not just a catchy slogan ...a promise for the future.”
Letter to the Student Body 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. Stephen Green Viewpoints Editor sgreen@houstonianonline.com
The individual opinions on the Viewpoints page are not necessarily affiliated with the view of The Houstonian or SHSU. The Houstonian is published semi-weekly on Tuesdays and Thursdays. It is a news publication of Sam Houston State University, a member of the Texas State University system, and is produced by students. It is self-supporting and welcomes all advertisers. Those interested in placing ads or classifieds should call (936) 294-4864. The Houstonian is a member of the Associated Press and the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association.
- Column courtesy of A. Rene McKelvey, Tyler Eberhart, Jimmy Williams, Cortni Crayton and Audrey Williams.
So what, the war isn’t over Karmen King says the death of bin Laden isn’t an end-all
Osama bin Laden is dead. only a boogey man used As a Middle East Studies by the dictators of those minor, this was huge news countries to justify their to me. I was elated that we refusal to relinquish power. had finally completed this In reality, al-Qaida has mission. My head was full splintered over the last few of fantasies years. Rarely of all of my has bin Laden Middle East “Realistically, bin issued orders p r o f e s s o r s Laden’s death to branches being so operating jubilant they will not be likely in other gave us all to topple al- c o u n t r i e s . an A for the we will Qaida. With the Now course and see hasty, that e m o t i o n a l called it a day. uprisings However, to are etaliations occurring... ralong my surprise, with has isolated acts we hardly even al-Qaida a d d r e s s e d shown increasing of bravado in the subject. attempts by It seemed irrelevance...” local leaders completely to take his unimportant place. to them. This got me to So what should we take thinking. away from all of this? Osama bin Laden is dead. Secretary of State Hilary So what? Clinton had this to say on What is the impact of bin Monday, “You cannot wait Laden’s death? us out, you cannot defeat Symbolically, this is us…The fight continues a major morale booster and we will never waiver… for our troops, who have This is America, we rise to seen an increase lately in the challenge, we persevere, fatalities. This is a unifying and we get the job done.” victory for our country, Osama bin Laden is which has been struggling dead. The might of our with divisive politics as of military and intelligence late. Most of all, because communities were able to of this, we can finally feel make this dent in terrorism’s like we are accomplishing armor. We have a reason something in the fight to celebrate. Now, more against terror. than ever, we must remain Realistically, bin Laden’s committed to finding a death will not be likely to peaceful solution. We must topple al-Qaida. With the remain ever vigilant to the uprisings that are occurring dangers around us. Most of in much of the Middle all, we must remain aware East, al-Qaida has shown that this fight is not over, its increasing irrelevance. yet. It has not been a factor in - King is a recurring inspiring the revolutions, columnist.
News
Page 4 Tuesday, May 3, 2011
houstonianonline.com/news
We DO Work sweeps ballot By Erin Peterson Associate News Editor
The results are in. A. Rene’ McKelvey is the new president-elect for the 2011-2012 school year as of 6 p.m. Monday. McKelvey was elected in spite of three election protests, one by Senator Joseph Le, the presidential candidate that ran independently. Le originally denied the protest. “I know it looks suspicious,” Le said Friday. “But it wasn’t me.” The protest, which was sent anonymously, featured several screenshots of the “SHSU We Do Work” and “Bearkats for Bearkats” Facebook pages after with Le’s name visible on one of the browser tabs. It called into question the campaigning practices of the two tickets, stating that they were actively campaigning after the 8 a.m. Wednesday, the start of the voting process. The protest was negated by the Election Commission on the grounds that there were no new posts. While in the SGA office, Le admitted that he filed the protest on Monday. “I keep getting suspicious looks,” he said. “It was me.” McKelvey and other newly elected SGA members will take office June 1.
Official results are as follows: 1,333 votes were cast on the presidential ballot, with 722 or 54.16 percent of the votes going to McKelvey, current SGA vice-president. 1,354 votes were cast on the vice-presidential ballot, with 746 or 55.10 percent of the votes going to Tyler Eberhart, current SGA secretary. 1,312 votes were cast in the treasurer race, with 751 or 57.24 percent of the votes going to Jimmy Williams, current SGA treasurer. 1,297 votes were cast in the race for secretary, with 858 or 66.15 percent of the votes going to Cortnie Crayton, current SGA Rules and Regulations Committee chief. 1,322 votes were cast in the race for chief of staff, with 824 or 62.33 percent of the votes going to Audrey Williams, current senator. New senators for the College of Business Administration: Benjamin Bertaut, Cole Harrison, Justin Haynes, David Kelley, Ryan Lockridge, Louis Martinez, O. Tracy Nnamadim, Jason Tilton and Victoria Towery. There were a total of 2,617 votes cast. For the College of Sciences: Cody Hatcher and Keelan Jones. There were a total of 1,499 votes cast.
For the College of Education: Lyndsi Black and Stephanie Campos. There were a total of 1,137 votes cast. For the College of Criminal Justice: Chidera Eneh, Jeff Pyle, Shane Rankin, Kaylia Tucker, Robert Arriaga, Matt Monk, Treveon Murdock and Mary Smith. There were a total of 2,099 votes cast. For the College of Humanities and Social Sciences: Lori Brooks, David Cullen, Xochilt Endsley, Christopher Fisher, LeAntranell Gipson, Brian Howard, Michael Oyeteju, Steven Perry, Kendall Scudder, Rebecca Staton, Rachel Voss, Chaston Pruitt and Christan Shamburger. There were a total of 2,413 votes cast. For the College of Fine Arts and Mass Communication: Brianna Bonnette, Patrick Buckley, Kolby Flowers, Colton Spurlock and Ronell Walker. There were a total of 2,167 votes cast. The homecoming theme for Fall 2011 is “Peace, Love, Bearkat.” It received 563 out of the total 1,419 total votes, or 39.687 percent. This theme was chosen over “Katoberfest” and “The REAL Orange County.” Several referendums were on the ballot as well. The fee referendum passed with 668 out of 1,590 possible votes,
Photo courtesy of SHSU We Do Work
McKELVEY DOES WORK. New SGA President-Elect A. Rene’ McKelvey and her party SHSU We Do Work swept the competition in this year’s SGA race. including 578 “no votes.” This referendum shifted budget money from Student Activities and moved it to the athletics department. The SGA constitutional referendum, which removed faculty members from SGA among other things, passed with 668 out of 882 possible votes, or 75.74 percent.
Theft trend affects students By Lauren Adkins Contributing Reporter
In the battle among different crimes committed at Sam Houston State University, theft has stolen top honor so far in 2011 with 23 cases filed by the University Police Department. The campus is nowhere near reaching the 136 theft and larceny incidents it had in 2009, as UPD has stepped up law enforcement strategies such as stings, camera surveillance, and advising students to use some common sense to protect their property. The campus library is one hot spot for opportunistic theft, according to UPD Deputy Chief James Fitch. “Most of our incidents occur when students leave their belongings unsupervised and an individual walks by and simply takes it,” Fitch said. “There have been two recent thefts at the library
that show this. “One student was studying at the library and left his belongings on a table when he went to the restroom. When he returned someone had taken his things. I wish we could say that everyone here on campus has good morals and would not do this, but some people simply cannot resist the temptation.” There have been 23 thefts reported on campus this semester, 30 last semester and 66 for the last year to date. And in Huntsville, theft and larceny have risen from 788 cases in 2007 to 1,066 in 2009, according to US Department of Justice Statistics. Most of the stolen property is under $500, although there have been two thefts of more than $1,500. The items that are most commonly stolen are cell phones, iPods, laptops, cash, bicycles, books, jewelry, credit and debit cards, televisions, and
materials used for identity theft. Fitch said UPD is trying to take a proactive stance on campus theft. In the past the officers have set up stings in which they would leave an item in a hot spot for thefts and then wait to see if someone takes it. UPD also uses security cameras to catch thieves. “There are numerous security cameras on campus,” Fitch said. “We most frequently review the camera system in the library because of the many thefts that have been reported there hoping that we will be able to identify the thieves from them. We are currently attempting to get the library online so that we would have a live feed to these cameras to also help us prevent thefts and catch thieves.” Fitch also said that UPD has access to most cameras on campus, but not all of them. Part of the problem is that each building or
department is responsible for the installation and maintenance of the security cameras. These cameras cost approximately $1,200 each plus a $330 maintenance fee each year. All new cameras are now required to be linked to UPD so that they can have access to the cameras. Some of the older cameras on campus have not yet been upgraded, but UPD is working on getting new ones so they can have access in every location. Students can reduce the risk of becoming victims of theft. “The best prevention comes from the student,” Fitch said. “Simply do not leave your belongings unattended. Again, in a perfect world we could do this, but we must be aware of those around us that might not have the same morals as we do. Just be careful and attentive and you won’t have to worry about being a victim of theft.”
together, people have fun.” The folk festival was created during the 1980’s recession in order to replace funding for the museum after state legislators cut back on museum funding during the Ronald Reagan administration. Community members dress up in 19th century style clothing as “ask me who I am” historical characters. There will be 25 craft vendors and 15 food
vendors plus live music. There will also be nonlethal cannon and musket firing, along with a bunch of festivities that will last all three days. One such set of activites was the medieval fighting that played homage to Houston’s ancestry. Members of the Barony of Raven’s Fort, local chapter for the Worldwide Society for Creative Anachronism, recreated “Hughstown,”
the Scottish community founded by Houston’s great-grandfather 20 times removed in 1153. “We wanted to show where Sam Houston’s family line came from,” said said Tiarna Devin Phelan O’Donnabhain, a Sam Houston Folk Festival board member and active SCA participant for nearly 30 years. “He didn’t just magically appear.”
retaliatory strikes from alQaeda and sympathizers, asking people to be on the lookout for any signs or evidence of something in the works. “As far as we know, there is no credible threat out there…nothing in the pipeline, so to speak, but it is true that America is on guard,” Orr said. Some local law enforcement agencies in the U.S. are adding security measures following Osama bin Laden’s death, out of what one called “an abundance of caution.” “I don’t know that that would be today or tomorrow,” Orr said. “They
tend to think longer-term. They’re strategic planners. We could face a sizable risk down the road.” The other concern is that the base of operations has shifted elsewhere. “The one thing that’s kind of a wild card in this is, because al-Qaida has fractionalized and splintered, the base of operations - the real power base - has kind of shifted to Yemen and al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP),” Orr said. “It could be the leader of AQAP there, and the Americanborn radical cleric Anwar al-Awlaki.” Orr said there is also the
risk of the so-called lone wolf, meaning “someone, perhaps even living in this country, that could view the killing of bin Laden as unjust and take something into their own hands, try to strike out.” The State Department put U.S. embassies on alert and warned them of the heightened possibility for anti-American violence around the world early Monday. Obama will travel to Ground Zero in New York on Thursday to speak with families and victims of the September 11, 2001 attacks, according to a White House official.
Festival draws a crowd By Hugo Lopez Contributing Reporter
The annual General Sam Houston Folk Festival took place at the Sam Houston Memorial Museum over the weekend. Patrick Nolan, museum director, dubbed Friday, the first day of the festival, “fantastic”. “There’s a lot of work involved in getting going, but when it all comes
From DEBATE page 1
“He’s a martyr,” Jeske said. “Disposing him at sea makes that option unavailable.” “Are we still safe?” CBS News Homeland Security correspondent Bob Orr said Monday morning on “The Early Show” that while the terror threat level is not being raised, “significant portions of the U.S. government and military installations, and law enforcement agencies are kind of raising their guard.” Orr says the FBI issued a warning against possible
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Keeping thieves at bay By Lauren Adkins Contributing Reporter Think like a criminal. One of the best ways you can protect yourself from theft is to develop a heightened awareness of your environment. Experts say that having street smarts means being able to put yourself in the place of the crooks that are keeping an eye out for loot. They’re always on the lookout, so you should be, too. Never leave your things unattended. You might think that this goes without saying, but each year, thousands of college students fall prey to property crime when they’re lulled into a false sense of security. Even if you’re among friends, even if you’re in familiar surroundings, even if you’re just turning your head just for a split second – it pays to always keep an eye on your stuff, no matter what. Remember to look, lock and leave. Look around when you pull into a parking lot or roll up to a bike rack. Take note of anyone suspicious in the area or unsafe surroundings. Lock your car or your bike securely, always taking the time to make full use of whatever security devices you have access to. Don’t tempt would-be thieves – leave nothing valuable in plain sight. Make your mark on your belongings. It may make you feel slightly un-hip, but most campus police swear that engraving or otherwise permanently putting your name and identifying information on your belongings is the very best way to ensure their safety – and to increase the chances that they’ll be returned to you in the event that they are stolen. You don’t have to obsessively engrave every pencil and pen in your possession, but do consider having your name engraved on your bike, your laptop, and any other high-value items. Leave expensive jewelry at home. Don’t risk losing fine jewelry or other sentimental items to a thief. For most students, it’s probably wiser to leave such valuables at home.
UPD Update April 28, 2011 Officer observed a male urinating in public in the 2500 block of Sam Houston Avenue. Upon contact, the male was identified as a University student, a minor, and highly intoxicated. The male was arrested and charged with Public Intoxication by a Minor.
April 26, 2011 Officer met with female complainant (a nonuniversity student) who reported that she was assaulted by a former boyfriend in a University parking area (unknown exact location). At the conclusion of the investigation, the female complainant advised she wanted to file formal charges of assault. The male student, who was identified and interviewed, declined to pursue any charges in reference to the incident. The female complainant was issued a criminal trespass warning for all SHSU property. A copy of the officer’s incident report will be forwarded to the Walker County District Attorney’s Office for review.
Arts & Entertainment houstonianonline.com/a-e
Encore Fine arts event raises $250,000 for new college and scholarships By Cheval John Contributing Writer Encore festivities spotlighted several alumni and friends who have made their names in Broadway, dance and theater. The event was held at the James and Nancy Gaertner Performing Arts Center on Saturday. Ed Gerlach (’46), a wellrenowned musician, started it off with performances of “Satin Doll”, “These Foolish Things (Remind Me of You)” and “In The Mood” that was accompanied by the SHSU dance students. Elijah Gibson (’98) and Eboni Adams (’99) gave a dance performance to the classic song “I Only Have Eyes For You” by the Flamengos. Gibson worked for 8 years with Gus Giodano Jazz Dance Company in Chicago and also taught and did set works in the Americas and Europe. He made his movie debut in the 2001 movie “Save The Last Dance,” starring Julia Stiles and Sean Patrick Thomas. Adams worked with the Lula Washington Dance Theater and has worked with John Legend, Justin Timberlake, Christina Aguilera and Elton John. She now owns a production company in Los Angeles called “The Yellow Cup Project” and can be seen in Christina Perri’s music video “Jar of Hearts.”
Gary Powell (’74) and co-producer Ted Kryczko, both Grammy nominees for their production of Disney’s “A Bug Life Sing Along,” gave an improvisation that allowed the audience to get a glimpse of his creative process. Greg Graham (’99), resident choreographer for the Broadway company of Bill Elliot, that is currently touring nationally, performed with Gibson to the song “Takin’ A Chance of Love”. Mike Reid, former football player for the Cincinnati Bengals and Hall of Fame Songwriter, sang three songs that he wrote for well-known artist including the song “I Can’t Make You Love Me” by Bonnie Rait, which was ranked as the 8th best song in the top 100 songs of all time. Mark Wills, country music performer with eight top ten hits and who created well-known R&B love songs “Back at One” and “Almost Doesn’t Count,” performed three songs including the song “19 Something” that spent seven weeks at number one. Allen Shamblin (’82), who wrote many chart topping songs including the number one song “He Walked On Water,” which was recorded by Randy Travis and “The House That Built Me,” which was recorded last year by Miranda Lambert, performed three songs
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including the song “The House That Built Me,” which won the Country Music Association’s 2010 “Song of the Year” and the Academy of Country Music’s 2011 “Song of the Year.” “It’s a great feeling to be back performing,” Shamblin said. “To be around artists like Gibson, Adams, etc. who have taken their art to the highest level around the world, is inspiring and it encourages me.” The Encore Fundraising Event generated $250,000 dollars that will be use to fund new initiatives for the new College of Fine Arts and Mass Communication and also will provide scholarships for many deserving talented students. According to Powell, “I want the broadest horizons possible for the students that graduate from this school so they will know exactly what the opportunities are and would have their portfolio intact and will already be immersed in the digital era.” According to Adams, “In 5 years, I see people from all over the world fighting tooth and nail to be a part of SHSU’s performing arts program.” The Encore Fundraising Event was put together by the Encore Committee and Committee Chair Chrissy Mafrige, wife of SHSU alumnus Ron Mafrige. Ed Gerlach served as Honorary Chair.
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Page 5 Tuesday, May 3, 2011
SHSU Theatre to showcase “Doubt” By Thomas Merka Entertainment Editor
The SHSU theatre department will present John Patrick Shanley’s 2005 Pulitzer Prize-winning drama “Doubt” Wednesday through Saturday. “Doubt” tells the story of Sister Aloysius, a Bronx school principal, who takes matters into her own hands when she suspects the young Father Flynn of improper relations with one of the male students. The play focuses on the perception of
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truth and how opinions are influenced by circumstance. The play stars musical theatre majors Jonathan Teverbaugh as Father Flynn and Teresa Zimmermann as Sister Aloyius. The cast also includes SHSU theatre majors Whitney Coulter and Nyseli Vega. “Doubt” is directed by SHSU theatre faculty member Larry Smiglewski and assistant directed by theatre staff member April Keith. SHSU theatre education
major Heather Limmer is the stage manager and designers include theatre faculty member Eric Marsh (sound), theatre staff member Craig Brossman (scenery), senior theatre major Amy Brock (costumes), and junior theatre major Jeff Linquist (lighting). Show times are at 8 p.m. each day, with a 2 p.m. Saturday matinee, in the University Theatre Center’s Showcase Theatre. For more information, call the UTC Box Office at 936-294-1339.
Box Office Results Numbers from weekend of April 29 - May 1
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Domestic Gross: $86,198,765
Domestic Gross: $104,014,751
Domestic Gross: $40,891,043
Domestic Gross: $32,480,214
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Relay for Life 2011
FIGHTING FOR A CAUSE. Project Sunshine, a group who works with disabled or special needs children, was one of many organizations that flooded Bowers Stadium Friday, April 29. The organizations, along with event sponsors, raised more than $36,000 that will be donated to the American Cancer Society. Of the money collected, $2,700 was raised by the University Police Department with their fake jail cell. Organizations and individuals could have others arrested by paying the police, who would then handcuff the “suspect.” The inmate would then have to either match the amount they were paid to be in there for, or ask others to donate money for their bail. The night included events such as Miss Relay, Relay Idol and the various group walks. Miss Relay features men from various organizations who got in touch with their feminine side. The winner wasn’t based off of looks, or lack their of, but how much money the contestant was able to raise. Relay Idol showcased the vocal talents of Relay participants from a variety of organizations. But the event that opened and closed Relay were the group walks. The first group lap featured cancer survivors and those currently battling cancer, then came a silent lap to honor those lost. The night ended with one final group lap before the night ended with awards and speeches.
Sports
Page 7 Tuesday, May 3, 2011
houstonianonline.com/sports
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Postseason push MVPs honored at banquet Kats are seeking to build momentum as they enter the final three weeks of the regular season
Photo courtesy of SHSU Athletics
MAKING A RUN AT IT.
Shelbi Tucker, playing shortstop instead of third base for the first time in two years, powered the second walk-off home run for a Sam Houston softball victory in two days and the Bearkats rallied for a 4-3 win over Southeastern Louisiana Sunday.
Cheval John
Contributing Reporter
HUNTSVILLE Southeastern Louisiana took game one from the Bearkats by the score of 3-2. First baseman Tamra Ladnier (1-2) blasted a three-run homerun off the scoreboard in the top of the fourth that gave the Lions a 3-0 lead. First baseman Kim Damian (1-3) blasted a solo homerun off the scoreboard to pull the Kats within two. The Kats had an opportunity in the bottom of the seventh when leftfielder Alex Survant (3-3) led off with a single. Thirdbaseman Shelbi Tucker (1-3) followed with a single. Both advanced to second and third, respectively on a sacrifice bunt by starting pitcher Tomi
Garrison (0-3). They pulled within 1 on rightfielder Erin Burford’s sacrifice fly, but came up short in the end. Starting pitcher Bailey Ziervert got the win for the Lions, while Tomi Garrison got the loss. The Bearkats took game 2 by the score of 9-1 in six innings. They scored the first run of the game in the bottom of the first on an RBI single by Alex Survant (2-4). The Lions tied the game in the top of the second on a RBI single by leftfielder Kelsey Nichols (1-3). The Bearkats would answer with three runs in the bottom of the second on a throwing error to third, which would have end the inning and a two-run single by Kim Damian (1-3). The Bearkats added another run in the bottom of the fourth and four more
in the bottom of the sixth on a sacrifice fly by Shelbi Tucker (1-3) and a three-run homerun by Erin Buford (24). Starting pitcher Shelby Lancaster got the win improving her record to (32). “She pitched great,” said Burford. “She did not let anything distract her and kept her composure.” According to Lancaster, “I tried to maintain my composure and that all I could really do.” The Bearkats walked off in fashion in the final game of the series by the score of 4-3. The Lions got off to a fast start scoring two runs in the top of the first and adding another in the top of the second on an RBI single by Katie Duhe (2-4). The Kats scored two runs in the bottom of the third on a bases loaded walk to Erin Buford and on a throwing error by Lions’ thirdbaseman Megan Moore that allowed Alex Survant (0-3) to score. Catcher Sarah Allison’s (1-3) solo homerun in the bottom of the sixth tied the game at 3-3. Then Shelbi Tucker (1-4) blasted a first pitch walk-off homerun in the bottom of the seventh that hit the top of the score board and kept the Kats in contention. According to head coach Bob Brock, “I felt that this series was a must win for us.” The Bearkats will finish the season at Central Arkansas this weekend and if they win the series, they will make the Southland Conference Tournament that will be held here from May 12-14.
Kats drop five of eight
Cheval John
Contributing Reporter
The Bearkats host Texas Southern tonight at 6:30 p.m. as losers of five of their last eight games. Southeastern Louisiana Lions took the first game from the Bearkats by the score of 5-4 in 10 innings. Secondbaseman Brock Herbert (2-5) hit a game-winning RBI single to right field that scored thirdbaseman Josh Cryer (1-4) who reached earlier with a one-out single and advanced to second on a wild pitch. Leftfielder Jeff Harkensee (3-4) drove in the Lions first run in the top of the first with a two-out triple. He scored the second run on a throwing error by thirdbaseman Kevin Miller. The Bearkats scored in the bottom of the first when catcher John Hale (3-5) hit a single to right field that scored shortstop Braeden Riley (0-3), who got on earlier with a one out walk. They tied the game at 2 in the bottom of the second on secondbaseman Ryan Mooney’s RBI single. The Lions took the lead in the top of the fifth on Harkensee’s double and increased the lead to 4-2 in the top of the sixth. The Bearkats clawed their way back in the game with firstbaseman Daniel Nottebart’s (1-4) RBI single in the bottom of the seventh and would eventually tie it at 4 in the bottom of the eighth with leftfielder Greg Olson’s RBI single. Starting pitcher Brandon Efferson went nine innings and got the win and pitcher Michael Oros got the loss in relieve. The Bearkats took game 2 by the score of 10-4. They scored four runs in the bottom
of the first on RBI singles by Braeden Riley (2-4), John Hale (1-4), and Daniel Nottebart (2-5). Kevin Miller (0-3) reached on fielders choice and got an RBI. The Bearkats added two runs in the bottom of the second on a two-run single by Riley. Ryan Mooney (3-4) had an RBI single in the bottom of the third that made it 7-0. The Lions scored three runs in the top of the fourth to pull within 4. The Kats would add two more runs in the bottom of the sixth and one in the bottom of the seventh. Brent Powers went 5 1/3 in relieve and got the win, while starting pitcher Tyler Watkins got the loss. The Lions took game three of the crucial series by the score of 4-2. The Bearkats struck first in the bottom of the first on a solo homerun by Designated Hitter Chris Andreas (1-4), his 10th of the season. The Lions roared back in the top of the sixth, scoring 4 runs. The inning started when rightfielder Trey Martin (0-3) was hit by a pitch, and would steal second base. He advanced to third on a sacrifice bunt by Brock Herbert (0-3) and would score on an error. Jeff Harkensee (1-4) gave them the lead with an RBI single. Josh Cryer (0-1) was hit by a pitch to load the bases. They scored the third run on what would have been an inning-ending double play and designated hitter Cody Gougler (1-4) had an infield RBI single. The Kats added another run in the bottom of the sixth, but to no avail. Starting pitcher Josh Janway got the win, while starting pitcher Matt Shelton got his first loss of the season.
Photo courtesy of SHSU Athletics
NEEDING TIMELY HITTING. John Hale sizes up at pitch at Don Sanders Stadium.
Brandon Scott
bscott@houstonianonline.com
Fourteen Bearkats were honored as most valuable athletes for their respective programs at the annual Bearkat All-Sports Banquet Monday April 26 at the Lowman Student Center Ballroom. Jenny Pence was named as Sam Houston State’s most valuable player for the 2010 soccer season. Pence repeated as a first-team Academic AllSouthland selection. She was named to the National Soccer Coaches Association Academic All-South squad. Alyssa Dooley was named most valuable athlete for the 2010 women’s cross country season. Her best finish this fall was ninth at the Houston Baptist cross country meet. Last spring she also scored in the Southland outdoor meet in the 800 meters. Patrick Krol was named most valuable athlete for the 2010 men’s cross country season. The junior from Wallis was the top finisher for the Sam Houston men’s cross country team at the 2010 Southland championships. He also led the Bearkats in meets at Houston and Houston Baptist. Kaylee Hawkins and Carli Kolbe were named as Sam Houston State’s comost valuable athletes for the 2010 volleyball season. Hawkins, a sophomore from Dickinson, and Kolbe, a junior from College Station, both were named to the 2010 All-Southland volleyball team after leading the Bearkats to sixth consecutive Southland tournament appearance. Both are two-time allleague honorees. Carli Kolbi ranked third in the Southland this year in kills and kills per set. She is the first Bearkat to post more than 400 kills in backto-back seasons since 2005. Tim Flanders was named as Sam Houston State’s most valuable athlete for the 2010 football season. The freshman from Midwest City, Oklahoma, was voted as the Southland Conference “Newcomer of the Year.” A first-team all-league running back, Flanders set
Photo courtesy of SHSU Athletics
MVP. Pictured here is Track and Field head coach Dave Self (left) and MVP Matt Johnson (right) at last week’s sports banquet
a Bearkat record with seven 100-yard rushing games last fall. His 948 yards and 13 rushing touchdowns in 2010 were the most ever by a Sam Houston freshman running back. Morgan Davis was named as Sam Houston State’s most valuable athlete for the 2011 women’s indoor track and field season Her score of 3,403 points in the pentathlon ranked among the five highest in Sam Houston women’s indoor track history Matt Johnson was named as Sam Houston State’s most valuable athlete for the 2011 men’s indoor track and field season. The junior from Port Neches set a new Sam Houston record with a 5,563 points in the heptathlon to finish as runner-up in the event at the 2011 conference championships. Britni Martin and Sequeena Thomas were announced as Sam Houston State’s most valuable athletes for the 2011 women’s basketball season Martin, a sophomore from Conroe, and Thomas, a sophomore from Allentown, Penn., paired to lead the women’s basketball team to its first winning season since 1996 and the Southland West Division championship. The pair were named both to the AllConference team and the Academic All-Southland honor squad. Gilberto Clavell was announced as Sam Houston State’s most valuable athlete for the 2011 men’s
basketball season Clavell, a senior from Mayaquez, Puerto Rico, became the third Bearkat to earn NCAA Division I All-America and Southland Conference men’s basketball “Player of the Year” honors this season. Gilberto scored 603 point this year and is the only junior college transfer in Bearkat history to score more than 1,000 career points. Dayna Galganski was announced as Sam Houston State’s most valuable athlete for the 2010-11 women’s bowling season. The team leader in total pins this season, she twice was an all-tournament selection and was named tournament MVP after leading the Kats to a championship at the Florida A&M Invitational. Nadia Dubyanskaya was announced as Sam Houston State’s most valuable athlete for the 2010-11 women’s tennis season. During the fall and spring seasons, the Nadia and Tanya produced an overall record in doubles of 20 wins and 11 losses. Nadia posted a 20-12 record in singles. Hailey Wiginton was announced as Sam Houston State’s most valuable athlete for the 2011 softball season. She ranks as the program’s second all-time leading hitter with a .347 career average and stands among the top five alltime in four other statistics categories.
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