Vol 119 | Issue 23
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Publishing since 1913
Independent Student Newspaper of Sam Houston State University
Viewpoints: Are online classes “beneficial?” pg. 2
KAT Links
For additional content and news updates, visit houstonianonline.com.
Football gears up for last regular season home game, pg. 6
INDEX Viewpoints ...... pg. 2 A&E ................. pg. 5 News ................ pg. 3 Sports ............... pg. 6 Lifestyle ............ pg. 4
Flanders receives Payton nod
Running back nominated most outstanding offensive player in nation By Zach Birdsong Sports Editor
This season has been a special one for the football team. They are 9-0, and are in search of the first undisputed Southland Conference title in school history. While all of that is taking place, running back Tim Flanders is having himself quite a season. This year, the sophomore out of Midwest, Okla., has run 856 yards and scored 17 rushing touchdowns, putting him three away from tying the school’s single season record. This past weekend Flanders scored one touchdown, giving him 30 in his career, six away from breaking the school’s alltime record that was set by Luther Tuner in 1987.
On top of all that, Flanders has received national attention and was nominated for the Walter Payton award on Monday. While all of that could go to somebody’s head and make them egotistical, Flanders remains humble. “Most of the plays and touchdowns have been coming from the offensive play calling, offensive line and receivers blocking down field,” Flanders said. “It felt pretty good
(being nominated for the Payton award); they said it’s like the Heisman of the FCS. It’s a big accomplishment, but I try not to think about it.” “I’m just trying to get
out here and take care of business. I’ll do what I can to provide for the team first and then worry about in secondary goals after the seasons over with. Right now I’m just trying to work on the primary and that’s to keep scoring and keep doing my job.” Earlier this season, Flanders was featured on SportsCenter’s top 10 plays, after his famous “Flanders Flip”
against Stephen F. Austin went viral. “When everybody told me I was on, I couldn’t believe it,” he said.
“Then I kept getting text messages, and phone calls all throughout the day. I finally saw it when I got to practice that day. It was something that’s very special. Not
everybody gets the chance to do that. That was very special to me, especially with all my friends, family, and everybody that had
been coaching me back in Oklahoma, they were very happy for me.” While Flanders has had a very successful career at Sam Houston, he originally went to play at Kansas State under head coach Bill Snyder. But after getting his release, Flanders’ highschool coach helped him out and contacted offensive line coach Derek Warehime. Warehime, originally from Del City, Okla., was coaching at Sam Houston. After speaking to Flanders, Warehime convinced him to be a Bearkat. Flanders first game as a Kat was in last year’s opener against Baylor. “When I got here, my
first practice was the first day of school so I only practiced for about a week,” he said. “I got to travel for the game though. I didn’t get into it until the fourth quarter, and did pretty good. And then we played Western Illinois the second game of the season and I got the start. Ever since then, I just showed my talent that God blessed me with and everything just took care of itself.” Flanders finished his first season as a Kat with 948 yards and 13 touchdowns. Unfortunately at the end of the season, he suffered an ankle injury with limited his playing time. “I just try not to get injured, and the coaches have been helping me with my carries to make sure I don’t injured.” On Saturday against Northwestern State (5-4, — See FLANDERS, page 6
Gibson defends personal actions, student rights By Stephen Green Associate News Editor
File photo
ON GUARD. The university president defended several student rights and took on criticism when she spoke at the Student Government Association meeting Tuesday night. Gibson was criticized heavily by Sen. Kendall Scudder (CHSS), who stated he feels disappointed by her
The university president defended several student rights and took on criticism when she spoke at the Student Government Association meeting Tuesday night. SHSU University President Dana Gibson told student senators that she is a major supporter of the student voice regarding the university. “I’m always willing to hear student perspective,” Gibson said. “Now, that doesn’t mean I’ll always agree with it…I have to do the same thing with faculty members. But I’m always open for input.” Sen. Kendall Scudder (CHSS) criticized Gibson saying he feels disappointed by some of Gibson’s actions. “I was the first person on Team Gibson,” Scudder said. “However, with all of the redistricting issue, then the free speech wall issue, then [city councilman Keith Olson’s] attack on student rights…I
feel kind of deserted by the administration. The students didn’t hear anything.” Gibson said that all of the issues are complicated, especially the City Council issues and redistricting. “City politics are… interesting enough,” Gibson said. “I made comments to the city over the summer. It’s a tough environment for students and the university at the moment.” “It’s a tough process that takes a lot of time to change the city structure.” Although she couldn’t promise any change to students, she did condemn Olson’s comments about student voting rights. “That was decided years ago,” she said. “It wasn’t an overly good or knowledgeable statement on his part. We seem to have a lot of politicians these days that should research before they speak.” Olson commented in a taped conversation that basically said students do not have the right to vote in city elections. “It’s hard for me to tell a college student you
deserve a vote on a tax base if you’re not gonna pay taxes…if you don’t own real property,” Olson said on the recording. The student right to vote in the town which they reside is protected by both the 24th Amendment and the Supreme Court case Symm v. United States. The final issue Gibson addressed in regards to student rights was about the Free Speech Wall incident. “I absolutely disagree with the faculty member’s actions,” Gibson said. “There are better ways to handle things if you disagree with something.” Sen. Justin Haynes (COBA) asked why she couldn’t be more vocal towards the student body in defending their rights. “You tell people behind closed doors, and that great and all,” Haynes said. “But when it’s the students being attacked, I don’t see how you don’t make some kind of public statement.” Gibson said that they were matters that mostly had to occur behind closed doors, but said she
Honor the fallen The Collegiate Veterans Association will be reading some of the 6,200 names of the casualties of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom (Operation New Dawn). The reading will take place at 1 p.m. Friday outside of the LSC. Flags will be handed out to those who knew members of the list.
— See GIBSON, page 3
City: Woodward earns 75 percent of mayoral votes By Stephen Green Associate News Editor The controversial Proposition 1 in the Huntsville city election passed in Tuesday night’s election, approving the construction of a new water treatment facility. Proposition 1, or the Trinity River Authority Resolution, was approved 2012 to 831 (70 percent approval). The proposition approves the construction of an $18.5 million water plant that will replace the current one. The TRA and other surveys claim the current system is underperforming the city’s demand. The construction would essentially double water capacity. Mac Woodward, who supported Proposition 1, — See MAYOR, page 3
Christian Pratt | The Houstonian
IT’S OFFICIAL. In addition to the Proposition 1, Texas River Authority Resolution, that approved the construction of a $18.5 million water plant, a new slate of city councilmembers were elected. They include Mac Woodward (Mayor), Joe Emmett (Ward 1), Tish Humphery (Ward 2), Ronald Allen (Ward 3) and Clyde Loll (Ward 4).
Viewpoints
Page 2 Thursday, November 10, 2011
houstonianonline.com/viewpoints
STAFF LISTING Robin Johnson
FACULTY ADVISER 936-294-1499
Erin Peterson EDITOR-IN-CHIEF 936-294-1505
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Stephen Green ASSOCIATE EDITOR sgreen@houstonianonline.com
Karmen C. King VIEWPOINTS EDITOR
kking@houstonianonline.com
Zachary Birdsong SPORTS EDITOR
zbirdsong@houstonianonline.com
Matt Frazier WEB AND MULTIMEDIA EDITOR
mfrazier@houstonianonline.com
McKinzie Brocail SENIOR REPORTER
mbrocail@houstonianonline.com
Jessica Gomez PHOTOGRAPHER
April Sanders COPY EDITOR
Christian Pratt
GRAPHIC COORDINATOR
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Editorial Help Wanted Athletic teams need support from university community Hey guess what? SHSU have a football team! An undefeated football team. We even have a volleyball team, two basketball teams, softball, baseball, track, tennis, cross country, bowling, golf and soccer. Surprised? Judging by the attendance at these events we’re sure most of you are. The average attendance at football games so far is 6,491. The volleyball numbers are even more shameful with a measly average of 285. This school suffers from a major lack of spirit and pride. We are a Division I university. We may not have the prestige or funding that programs such as Texas A&M and University of Texas have, but there is still no reason for such dismal athletic attendance numbers. Games are free for students. Yes, you read that right. FREE! It seems to the Houstonian staff that no one has any problems standing around in long lines for free food or free
t-shirts on campus, so why not support your student-athletes by going to the games. For free. Actually, we’re not being totally honest with you. These games aren’t free. You’ve already paid to attend them when you paid your tuition. That’s like buying a flashy car and then walking to school. This may sound a bit harsh, but it’s true. Teams need something to fight for. Fan support, or lack thereof, can make or break a team. Especially during playoffs that, by the way, the football team will be part of in just a few short weeks. Wouldn’t it be nice to host one of those playoff games? Unless the athletic department can show that the university community will come to a game, it’s unlikely that it will happen. Come out to Bowers Stadium Saturday at 3 p.m. and while you’re at it be sure to check out the men’s basketball game that night at 7:30 p.m. and the women’s game on Sunday at 3:30 p.m..
“This is what college [life] is all about. Having an opportunity to go out with your friends and watch fellow students perform at a high level. We’re excited about our season. I really feel like our guys are true student-athletes and love representing this university. We just hope we get as many people out to support us as possible.” - Head Coach Willie Fritz “It’s time for the student body to get behind us and come out in large numbers, get loud and give us the home field advantage. We have something really special going on right now and it’s time to make Bowers a big game atmosphere.” - Senior Center Travis Watson
“Everybody come out and support the Kats. We appreciate everything that the fans have done for us so far and we hope they bring their friends and families out to the game. Hopefully we’ll go 10-0 this weekend and win an outright Southland Conference “Paws UP” to championship.” - Sophomore Quarterback Brian Bell Tim Flanders finally
being added to the “This is a great season. We’re going to win in for [the fans], Payton Award list. win it for ourselves, and win it for our coaches. Hope that [the fans] can come out and support us as we try and take an undisputed conference championship, the first one for Sam Houston State University.” - Sophomore RB Tim Flanders
“Paws UP” to being SLC co-champions with the opportunity to win outright champion this weekend.
Photos courtesy gobearkats.com
Today in history: All comics courtesy Creators.com
1766 – The last colonial governor of New Jersey, William Franklin, signs the charter of Queen’s College (later renamed Rutgers University). 1951 – Direct-dial coast-to-coast telephone service begins in the United States. 1954 – U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower dedicates the USMC War Memorial (Iwo Jima memorial) in Arlington National Cemetery 1969 – National Educational Television (the predecessor to the Public Broadcasting Service) in the United States debuts the children’s television program Sesame Street. 1975 – United Nations Resolution 3379: United Nations General Assembly approves a resolution equating Zionism with racism 1997 – WorldCom and MCI Communications announce a $37 billion merger (the largest merger in US history at the time) 2006 – The National Museum of the Marine Corps is opened and dedicated by U.S. President George W. Bush and announces that Marine Corporal Jason Dunham will receive the Medal of Honor in Quantico, Virginia.
“Paws UP”to all of the soldiers who have and continue to put their lives on the line for our freedoms. Thank you.
Just say no to online classes
George Mattingly wants more off-line classes With registration going on this week, I was looking forward to signing up for new classes in the upcoming semester, but it didn’t go as well as I planned because of one thing: online classes. Some of my required classes for my major offered only one section that happened to be online and that really got me to question how beneficial they really are. First, the benefit of having an actual teacher go through different lessons and being able to show me my mistakes completely outweighs the benefit of not having to appear in a classroom. Whenever I can see how things need to be done, how essays need to be written, how formulas are supposed to work, and how to form sentences is when I can truly grasp the concept of the lesson, not by staring at a computer screen or email. I am currently enrolled in an online class, but not by choice and I hate it. The fact that the class is a writing enhanced course that is magically supposed to be taught online is baffling to me. I don’t see how something that is as specific and hands-on as writing can be taught through a screen. Even with the information from the book, such specific courses like writing, math, science and foreign languages need to be taught by a teacher who can show you what to do. How else can we, as students, ever really learn and know how to do certain things if there is no one in front of us telling us what is wrong with our work and showing us different processes and techniques.
Some people may feel that having a teacher in front of them is babying, I feel that some subjects need it, especially with how bad some people are at math and English. Subjects such as history, government, and psychology that are general subjects without much hands-on learning are different. Those subjects are easier to learn through online classes because they don’t require as much technical involvement from students. Also, I feel that when classes are taught online, it becomes more difficult to complete work and keep up with due dates because students can become less motivated because they are not required to appear in the classroom. Then, there is perhaps the most frustrating part of it all: the price. The cost of an online class is $300 more than an in-class lecture. I thought online classes were supposed to be a convenience for students and teachers. It makes no sense to have students pay more for a class that they do not even have to show up for, or have a teacher in front of them to learn from. The problem with some classes at SHSU is that they are offered only as online courses, which is not beneficial to students in certain subjects. If they continue to offer online courses, then they should offer at least one in-class section of the class so students have the option of choosing what works best for them instead of being forced into taking a class that won’t benefit them. -George is the interim A&E Editor.
“Paws UP” to the new late-night dining options at Chick-fil-a. 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. Karmen C. King Viewpoints Editor kking@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 936-294-1495. The Houstonian is a member of the Associated Press and the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association.
News
Page 3 Thursday, November 10, 2011
houstonianonline.com/news
Gibson addresses policy, campus design concerns By Stephen Green Associate News Editor University President Dana Gibson addressed several concerns of the Student Government Association about university policies and operations at Tuesday night’s meeting. In a special general meeting of the SGA Senate, Gibson held a question and answer with senators about any concerns they had, including the tobacco policy, campus security and library hours of operation. CHSS Caucus Chairwoman Xochilt Endsley strongly supported a full ban on tobacco products.. “When I’m around smokers, I immediately start sneezing,” Endsley said. “It can be overpowering. It’s a big problem that we need to address.” Sen. Kendall Scudder was not in attendance at the Nov. 1 meeting where the policy was discussed, but had objections to it. “I don’t feel it’s the university’s obligation to take away people’s rights to do what they want to their
body,” he said. Gibson said she spoke out against the policy at the Texas State University System board meeting in May, but was overpowered by the other university presidents in attendance. “I was the only president that spoke out against the ban,” Gibson said. “I just didn’t have a lot of support. But, I am going to take your suggestions to the next meeting that the policy is scheduled to be discussed.” System-wide policies, Gibson said, have a period of time in which they can be reconsidered. She said the next meeting is either in February or May. The policy would cause a campus-wide ban on tobacco products with the exception of Gibbs Ranch and the Raven’s Nest golf course. “Those are high, public use areas so we were granted exemptions for those two areas,” Gibson said. Several other senators didn’t discuss the tobacco policy, but did ask Gibson about library hours. Sen. Shane Rankin (CCJ) said that the computer lab in
the College of Humanities and Social Sciences Building is “good, but not sufficient.” He would rather see the library move to operate 24-hours a day. “People are loud and rude,” Rankin said. “You can’t really focus like you can in a library. The library encourages studying and academia.” Gibson encouraged Rankin to push the idea forward to the library because librarians are in charge of studying the feasibility and necessity of the building always being open. In addition, Technology Coordinator Joseph Le asked the possibility of having covered walkways between the Elliot T. Bowers Stadium to the main campus. “It’s a long way to walk,” Le said. “When it’s raining, it would give students just a little less space to have to walk through and get wet.” Gibson immediately rejected the idea. “The cost of a covered walkway, my first reaction says, will be prohibitively expensive,” Gibson said. “It would be fairly costly
Small group, big goals SHSU class donates time, labor to renovate SAAFE House By Chelsea Boyd Contributing Reporter A group of students in a communication class have been working together to remodel the lobby of local domestic violence shelter, SAAFE House. The Small Group Communication class led by professor Terry Thibodeaux, Ph.D., is working on remodeling the SAAFE House lobby by painting, renovating the floor, and providing new furniture. “I wanted to do a service-learning project that was part of the academic community engagement project. I decided this semester SAAFE House would be our target,” Thibodeaux said. “We have groups of students working to refinish
the lobby, do painting, and replace the flooring in the lobby. We also have a group of students who are working to get new furniture for the new lobby. The SAAFE House is Huntsville’s local shelter that provides services to men, women, and children in the community who are victims of sexual assault and domestic violence. “The shelter helps victims to get past the things that they have been through by empowering them to take steps forward and get back on their feet” said Tara Lestarjette, SAAFE House Volunteer Events Coordinator. When Thibodeaux approached her about making SAAFE House renovation their academic community engagement project, Lestarjette said she “was absolutely thrilled.” “We operate so heavily on the support of volunteers especially during this rough economic season,” she said. “It is going to mean a lot to or staff and our clients to have a lobby that is freshly painted and redone.” Lestarjette explained that
since the SAAFE House has moved into their new building this summer they were not able to do much renovating. She said “that’s why it’s been so meaningful to us that this class was willing to help us.” “I love volunteer work, especially with the right music and the right people.” Cesar Belloso, a senior communications major, said while painting and enjoying the radio with a few of his classmates. “Its always a good thing to give back to the community…” said Alexis Ervin a senior mass communications major. She said she hopes Thibodeaux can continue the project every semester so future Small Group classes can come back continue to contribute their time volunteering. Thibodeaux said he also wants students to learn that it’s important to learn and to give back to the community while experiencing the group dynamic process. The class plans on completing the project by the end of the semester.
From SGA website
HASHING IT OUT. University President Dana Gibson, visited the Student Senate to address concerns about policy and campus life as well as talking about her personal actions. Issues discussed included the tobacco policy, teh free speech wall and upgrades to the functions of facilities.
to build. And to tell you the truth, the odds of it being passed into the Campus Master Plan aren’t very good.” “We desperately need a lab science building and I don’t see the state paying for one. But [the walkway] is something I will have
From MAYOR page 1
1, thanked his supporters via Facebook Wednesday after winning the mayoral race by a landslide. “Thank you to all of you who supported, helped, and/or voted for ‘Mac for Mayor,’” Woodward said. “Leanne and I are truly grateful for every single encouraging word and outreach of support. I will give you my very best effort and serve you with integrity. Let’s all work together.” Woodward, the current mayor pro-temp, received 2220 votes (75 percent)
physical plant look at.” Before she left, Le asked Gibson how the senate could help. “Just give me input,” Gibson said. “And maybe think of broadening representation like nontraditional students and online students.”
SGA Pres. Tyler Eberhart said that he will be looking into having Gibson go to more question and answer meetings with the senate in the future to discuss more university issues. SGA meets every Tuesday at 6 p.m. in LSC 320.
compared to his opponents, former-mayor Karl Davidson and businessman George Russell, according to unofficial election results. Davidson received 539 votes (19 percent) while Russell got 199 votes (6 percent). Woodward replaces Mayor J. Turner who took office in 2005. Four ward candidates were also elected in last night’s election. Joe Emmett defeated Dr. Tom Cole for the Ward 1 position by a margin of 320 to 267 votes. Cole was the incumbent for the Ward 1 position. Tish Humphrey won
the Ward 2 position over former-SHSU student Katie Newman 488 to 144. Humphrey is the owner of the Huntsville Curves. Ronald Allen defeated John Cromer 204 to 124 for the Ward 3 position that is currently held by Jack Wagamon, who decided not to run for reelection. Clyde Loll defeated Sandra Hanscom 778 to 566 votes. Hanscom sits on the Planning and Zoning Commission after being appointed by Turner. In addition, Proposition 2 was passed, approving changes to city park property 2340 to 454 votes.
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NEW STUDENT TOWNHOMES
National French Week
begins, aims to celebrate diverse cultures in U.S. Quinn Dombrowski | Flickr.com
By McKinzie Brocail Senior Reporter Sam Houston State University’s French Club is celebrating National French Week by hosting various events that began Tuesday and will continue until Monday. All students are welcome to take place in the Frenchthemed fun that the French Club has been hosting since 2005. The French Club kicked off the week-long festivities with their seventh annual French poetry reading competition, in which numerous poems by renowned French poets like Charles Baudelaire, Jacques Prevert and Gerad de Nerval were read by students. The competition consisted of two categories, one of elementary level students and one of advanced level students. After winners were announced a question and answer session was held in regards to the Study Abroad
in Paris program. Wednesday evening the club featured the French film Des hommes et des Dieux in the Olson Auditorium in AB4 (room 220). Thursday there will be a sampling of French cuisine in the CJava Café in he Criminal Justice Center. Various French foods including quiches, cheeses, French beverages, breads and others will be available for students to try. Friday and Monday the French Club is showing two more French movies:
Amélie and Mon Oncle. Both will be featured in the Olson Auditorium at 5:30 p.m. “[The films were picked] to showcase award-winning French films, both new and old,” Shirin Edwin, Ph. D, associate professor of French, said. The week is celebrated as French Week nationally across the United States and the dates are decided by the American Association of Teachers of French (AATF) to celebrate international and diverse cultures in the U.S.
From GIBSON
“With the city I’m trying to make headway, but I’m not sure how effective a public statement would have been to them.” Pres. Tyler Eberhart commended the senators for their professionalism toward Gibson and said that he may ask for more sit-downs like that between the Gibson and the senate.
page 1
understood how a public statement would make students feel better. “You can’t be very public and publish everything in the newspaper,” she said. “We can’t necessarily do that. I can understand how [making a public statement] would make students feel better.”
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Lifestyle
Page 4 Thursday, November 10, 2011
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In honor of those who served in our stead... ... the university has joined in a nationwide grass-roots effort to honor American service men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice in Iraq and Afghanistan throughout the last decade.
By Erin Peterson Editor-in-Chief Sam Houston State University will honor those who lost their lives in service during the Remembrance Day National Roll Call in front of the LSC at 1 p.m. local time on Friday. Following the tenth anniversary of 9/11, campus and community volunteers from 117 universities and colleges across the nation will read the names of the over 6,200 casuatlises of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, now known as Operation New Dawn. “The reading of individual names is very poignant, because it emphasizes the significance of each and every life lost,� said Lt. Col. (Ret) Brett Morris, the National Roll Call coordinator and retired Army officer. “Like the names inscribed at the new 9/11 Memorial in New York (City), each of the fallen deserve to be remembered for their sacrifice,� he said. “There is no effort to raise money or promote individal programs. The event is simply to honor those who have sacrificed so much on our behalf.� The reading of the names will take nearly eight hours to complete as readers announce the names in chronological order. There will also be flags on hand for those who knew a member of the list. The members of The Houstonian staff would like thank those who have served our nation both at home and overseas. We appreciate your service to our country.
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Arts & Entertainment
Page 5 Thursday, November 10, 2011
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Students to glimpse into “Passage” By George Mattingly
Arts & Entertainment Editor
Various frames on the walls of the Geeslin Art Gallery hold memories of time, place and loss captured in photographs taken over decades of living in Hawaii for artist Tomiko Jones. Jones will give students a glimpse into those memories in her artist talk about her work featured in the current art exhibit titled “Existence, Passage, Release” at 4 p.m. in the Art Auditorium located in Art Building E, Room 108. She is among three artists whose work is featured in the exhibit and who will be reviewing the work of photography students. The name of the exhibit highlights the work of each artist. Jones work represents the “Passage” by using photographic installations to document
the loss that occurs in migration across continents and seas. Jones’ photographs span more than 20 years of taking pictures at her grandmother’s home in Kohala, Hawaii. Some of the main themes in her work are her relationship to objects and rooms, the passageof time, the living and dead, ritual food and the connection between generations. Photography students who made an appointment will receive a personal interaction with a professional when Jones critiques their art work. “It’s very important to bring shows like this to give the students handson experience,” Debbie Davenport Harper, Art Audio Visual Librarian, said. “It gives them a chance to interact with a working professional.” Other artists featured
in the exhibit are Jelena Berenc and Monika Meler. Berenc’s endurance drawings are part of the “Existence” part of the exhibit. They are based on the long, repeated and excessive acts of drawing that convey how the nature of drawing becomes a file of time and experience. The “Relief” portion of the exhibit come from the work of Monika Meler. Her prints are printed on both sides of thin Japanese paper to give them a layered look and serve as a representation of duality. “Sometimes students can’t go to museums and this way, we bring art to them,” Harper said. “We want everyone to know we have a gallery on campus with these exhibits for students to see. “ There will be a reception following the artist talk that is open to the public and from 5-7 p.m. in the
Gaddis Geeslin Gallery is located in the SHSU Art Complex, Art Building F, Room 101.
“Existence, Passage, wRelief” will be on display in the Geeslin Gallery through Dec. 1.
For more information contact Harper in the Art Department at 936-2941317.
Photo courtesy of Debbie Harper
‘RELEASE’: Artist Monika Meler, who uses Japanese paper in her artwork will give a lecture on Thursday, November 17th at 4 p.m. in the Art Auditorium Art Building E, room 108
Diversity through dance Guest pianist to bring Students to present original work rare performance to PAC By George Mattingly
Arts & Entertainment Editor
Graduate dance students will showcase their work in student choreographed pieces in a concert on Thursday and Friday at 8 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center Dance Theater. The Graduate Student Concert, held each semester, will feature 11 performances including student choreographed dances and a piece by SHSU faculty member performed by graduate students. “This is an opportunity for the MFA candidates to gain choreographic experience as well as offer the undergraduate students a performance opportunity,” Laura Harrell, concert director, said. “This concert allows the graduate students to present their work in a professional
venue.” Harrell, a graduate student, will also be presenting a piece of her choreography and dancing in two works. According to Harrell, the wide array of dances will showcase the diversity of work among the M.F.A candidates and feature modern, jazz, tap and musical theater dance styles from solo and group performers. Among the pieces to be performed are “Climbing Scenes” in which five dancers make use of ladders to create different scenes; a duet titled “Push, Shove, Negotiate;” and “Move Over”, a tap dance about the empowerment of women set to the music of Janis Joplin. Six graduate students will perform a work that addresses loss and love choreographed by SHSU Dance Lecturer Erin Reck.
With Dance Spectrum happening later this month, Harrell said they “may feature common dancers, but both are collaborative concerts that showcase very diverse works.” The concert will not only be beneficial for dance students, but will offer an opportunity for the audience as well. “We want them to have an experience, whether it is emotional or physical,” Harrell said. “We want them to leave with a deeper appreciation of concert dance and challenge themselves to see things from a different point of view.” Tickets for the Graduate Student Concert are $12 for general admission, $10 for students, and can be purchased through the PAC Box office at 936-294-2339.
By George Mattingly
Arts & Entertainment Editor
A widely known music performer and educator will head to the university on Saturday to perform pieces in an all Beethoven recital at 7:30 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center Recital Hall. Peter Takacs will be performing several major Sonatas written by Beethoven and will have Assistant Professor of Piano Ilonka Rus, Ph.D, join him on stage for “Sonata in D major, Op. 6”, on piano with four hands. Takacs, born in Romania, has performed as a guest soloist with major orchestras in the U.S. and Italy, and has taught students around the world in places such as Israel and Sweden’s Helsingborg Festival.
Since 2008, he has been a faculty member at the Montecito Summer Music Festival in Santa Barbara, Calif. He has performed and recorded 32 Beethoven Sonatas released by Cambria Music this past July. Takacs has also received several accolades for his performances including first prize in the William Kappell International Competition, the C.D. Jackson Award for Excellence in Chamber Music and the Solo Recitalist Grant from the National Endowment for the Arts. “We have very few piano guest artists that come to the university,” said Rus. “His generation is going to be extinct very soon so it is a real treat for the community to see him perform.” Rus, who was a former
student of Takacs, decided to bring him to SHSU to showcase a highly recognized performer and give students insight into the professional world of music. In addition to performing, Takacs will be teaching a master class and giving a personal workshop to four students who will be performing for him. According to Rus, the new PAC facilities were instrumental in getting Takacs to come to the university as well as many other guest performers. “We’re considered a small town,” Rus said. “It is really unique to the community and very educational to expose everyone to what is out there.” For more information, contact the School of Music at 936-264-1360.
Sports
Page 6 Thursday, November 10, 2011
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Football set for Occupy Bowers By Zach Birdsong Sports Editor
Fresh off a 38-9 victory at Southeastern Louisiana, the football team plays host to the Northwestern State Demons and will be in search of their first outright Southland Conference title. Last week, the Kats clinched a share of the Southland title and received an automatic qualifier bid into the NCAA Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) playoffs. They also improved to 9-0 on the season, 6-0 in Southland Conference play, and climbed to number three in the Sports Network FCS poll, and received one first place vote. The Demons (5-4, 3-2 in SLC) on the other hand are coming off a 45-20 loss to Central Arkansas, and are looking to bounce back from the defeat. In nine games this season, the Demons offense is averaging over 304 yards a game and is led by quarterback Brad Henderson. So far this season Henderson has completed over 63 percent of his passes and thrown for 1,556 yards and 12 touchdowns. The Demons also have a strong rushing attack and average 124 rushing yards a game. Running backs D.J. Palmer, Rumeall Morris and Henderson have combined for 1007 rushing yards and 4 touchdowns. “Offensively they are a power football team that you don’t see a whole of anymore,” Kats head coach Willie Fritz said. “Everybody seems to want to spread you out and get you out there on an island. They’re not afraid to pack the box in and run the ball
Jessica Gomez | The Houstonian
GETTING IT GOING. Robert Shaw (23), E.J. Nudka (56), Kevin Matthews (13), Emory Miller (1) take the field in the “Battle of the Piney Woods” game against SFA.
at you. We’re going to have to do a good job of defending that and be very gap sound.” Against the run, the Kats have had a lockdown defense, and ranks first in the FCS, allowing just over 55 yards a game. The Kats passing defense has also been good, allowing 204 yards a game. This past week, cornerback Daxton Swanson was named Southland Conference Defensive Player of the Week. Against Southeastern Louisiana, Swanson was able to intercept two passes, his fourth in two games. This season Swanson has intercepted seven passes and is tied for the most
interceptions in a single season by an SHSU player. The Demons defense has been solid as well this season, allowing 376 yards a game. “Defensively I think they are as talented as a team that we’ve played this season,” Fritz said. “They’ve got a great defensive backfield and some excellent linebackers who play extremely hard. We know that their defense is going to bring it each and every play.” Their defense will have their hands full as they take on the Kats sixth ranked FCS rushing offense. The Kats feature a two headed rushing attack that is led by running back Tim Flanders and wide receiver
Richard Sincere. While Flanders and Sincere primarily rush the ball, they are both versatile and can be used in the passing game. Both Flanders and Sincere have combined for 2,065 yards and 26 touchdowns. “If you look at their team, they are very, very good,” Demons head coach Bradley Dale Peveto said. “I’ve yet to find a weakness on any phase to be honest with you. They are very well coached, and have a great system with everything they do.” “They play hard and they are very good. It’s pretty fun to watch them. For us we’re going to have go in there and play well to have
a chance to win this game. Their record is for real and so are they.” Saturday’s game will be “Senior Day” and 12 senior members will be honored before the start of the game. The game has also been selected as the Toyota Southland Conference
game of the week and will be broadcasted on the Southland Conference Television network. Kickoff is scheduled for 3 p.m. For more information about the football team, including ticketing, visit gobearkats.com.
Men, women ready for upcoming season
By Zach Birdsong Sports Editor
After winning the Southland Conference West Division last season, both the men’s and women’s basketball team are preparing for the start of the upcoming season this weekend. While both teams won their respected division, the difference between the two teams this year is large. Men’s Team After finishing last season 18-13 overall and 10-6 in conference play, the men’s team returns just one starter, two lettermen, one red-shirt and has added eight new faces. Senior Antuan Bootle is the only returning starter. In 30 games last season, Bootle averaged 3.9 points and 4.8 rebounds per game. His rebounds were good for second on the team and ranked 13th in the conference. Marcus James and Aaron Thompson are the other two returning players for the team. Last season James averaged 4.5 points a game, while Thompson averaged 2.2. Konner Tucker, who red-shirted last season after transferring from Wake Forrest will get his opportunity to play this season. The other eight players are new to Sam Houston and will sporting the orange and white for the first time. During the offseason, head coach Jason Hooten searched and scoured for new recruits as he is searching for somebody to replace Southland Conference Player of the Year, Gilberto Clavell.
photo courtesy of gobearkats.com
SCORING. Marcus James shoots the ball in a game last season. James is one of three players returning to the team this year. In 28 games last season, James averaged 4.5 points and 4.2 rebounds.
“We felt that last year we had some deficiencies in a couple of areas,” Hooten said. “The main concern was our shooting ability. Last year we ended up shooting 29.6 percent from the three-point line, and that’s just not good enough. We tried to go out and get a couple of guys that could make shots and I felt like we did that.” Women’s Team The women’s team is hoping their experience can help them succeed this year. Last year, the team finished 17-14 overall and 11-5 in conference play. They are returning two All-Southland Conference performers in forwards Britni Martin and Sequeena Thomas. The two were named as team co-most valuable players last season and have already been named to this year’s pre-season All-Southland Conference
team. Last year Martin averaged 15.9 points and 5.4 rebounds a game, while Thomas averaged
15.9 points and 5.4 rebounds a game, while Thomas averaged 14.6 points and 10.3 rebounds. Khamra Echols, Chanice Smith and Clarke Davis will round out the starters for the women. Jasmine Johnson, Ashton Jones, Zoe Tucker, Devin Wombles, Nyha Carter and Latisha Morgan are also returning to the team. Five new faces we be a part of this year’s team. Those five new faces include: Kavsean Clavelle, Angela Beadle, Jazmin Wiley, Victoria Gonzalez, and Tanishia Manson. “We’re really excited,” head coach Brenda Nichols said. “The players we have returning all have a lot of experience. Having returners is awesome. It just makes practice and everything go smoother. But at the same time, we’re trying to teach our five new ones everything that’s going on. But the mesh has been wonderful.” Both teams open the
photo courtesy of gobearkats.com
REBOUNDING. Britini Martin waits for a rebound in a game last season. Last year, Martin was named co-MVP with Seequena Thomas and was an All-Southland Conference selection.
season at home this weekend. The Men’s team will play Howard Payne at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday night, while the women’s
team plays against UTTyler at 3:30 p.m. on Sunday. For more information go to gobeakats.com.
From FLANDERS page 1
On Saturday against Northwestern State (5-4, 3-2 in SLC), the Kats are looking to improve to 10-0 on the season, the first time since 1956. “We’ve been playing hard and we just keep trying to grind it out,” Flanders said. “That’s all we want to do is keep winning. We have been taking it one game at a time.” That game will be “Senior Day,” and Flanders wants to send the seniors out on top with the first undisputed Southland Conference championship in school history. “It will be really good for
Jessica Gomez | The Houstonian
FLANDERS FLIP. Running back Tim Flanders flips into the endzone against SFA in October.
all of our seniors,” Flanders said. “This is their last go around and they can be the first ones to ever do it, and
that’d be very special.” Tickets to the game are free for students, and they are still available.
Students can pick up their tickets on Thursday and Friday in Bearkat Plaza. Kickoff is 3 p.m.