Wednesday, October 18, 2017
The Independent Student Newspaper of Sam Houston State University
The Official News Source of Sam Houston State University ACCIDENT, P.2
CAMPUS SAFETY, P.3
RIVERDALE, P.4
CLICKBAIT, P.5
HOOPS, P.6
A professor was hit last week by a university vehicle.
Dr. Kathleen Kiernan discusses how college campuses can keep safe.
Mason Gonzales covers the premiere of Riverdale season two.
Opinion: Masey White examines the effect of clickbait in social media
SHSU basketball is lacing up their shoes and hitting the court.
/HoustonianSHSU
@HoustonianSHSU
@HoustonianSHSU
Volume 129 | Issue 8
Shore to be executed for I-45 murders
Welcome to Sammy’s Circus SFA bleeds
orange after loss at Piney Woods
SARAH PEARCE Senior Reporter
TYLER JOSEFSEN Sports Editor
Shore Anthony Allen Shore, 55, is scheduled to be executed by lethal injection at the Walls Unit in Huntsville today for the four murders he committed between 1986 and 1995 after losing his last appeal last week. Shore lost his last-chance appeal a week before his execution date. He claimed unrealized brain damage left him so impaired, he was not morally responsible for his crimes. Shore’s lawyers argued that the extent of his brain damage makes the execution unconstitutional, comparing it to executing an intellectually disabled prisoner. “He should be killed,” Shore’s youngest sister said. Dubbed the “Tourniquet Killer,” Shore was convicted for capital murder in 2004 after he confessed to brutally murdering four young women in the Houston area along I-45. His four victims were tortured, raped and strangled with homemade tourniquets. According to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, Shore has five victims. On September 26, 1986, Shore kidnapped 15-year-old Laurie Lee Tremblay and strangled her to death with a cord. He then dumped the victim’s body behind a Ninfa’s Restaurant.
HoustonianOnline.com
Photos courtesy Student Activities
A BEARKAT CIRCUS. (TOP LEFT) The annual Sam Jam Carnival will feature games and rides at Holleman
Field. (TOP RIGHT) Lawrence Jones and Georgina Reefer stand together after being crowned 2016 Homecoming King and Queen. (BOTTOM) The day-by-day homecoming schedule.
ETHAN HORN Associate Editor
Homecoming is here! Today marks the first day of festivities for Sam Houston State University’s Homecoming celebration, “Sammy’s Circus”. The theme was voted on last April as part of the SGA elections, and Bearkats Under the Big Top won by a landslide. Ringmaster Sammy has spent the last few months lining up festivities, and they all kick off tonight. Events: The “Sam Jam” Carnival kicks everything off as it has for the past few years. Held at the Holleman Field Complex just off campus. The Carnival kicks off at 7 p.m. and runs until 11 p.m. and will feature rides food and prizes. “Sam Jam is a newer tra— SHORE, page 2
dition where students enjoy the carnival night life and can witness the announcement of the King and Queen’s Court,” according to Student Activities website, who oversees the event. Thursday night, the Homecoming Parade will roll through town. The route starts on 19th Street, moves to Sam Houston Ave., then 12th street and finishes on University Avenue. President Hoyt is expected to Marshall the parade in keeping with tradition, and organizations will file in to ride along to Sammy’s Circus. The parade begins at 6:30 p.m. On Oct. 20, the Program Council will host PC Cinema: Homecoming Edition. The event kicks off at 6 p.m. in the LSC Ballroom, and make sure to grab a valid student ID to get in and grab some free snacks. The specially selected
film ties in with theme, and students will be sure to want to see IT. Saturday is the big day. Events start early, as an alumni only coffee will be held on campus for all of our returning Bearkats. For those alum wishing to attend, head over to the John H. Ragsdale Visitor and Alumni Center at 10:30 a.m. for coffee, pastries and live jazz. At 1 p.m., tailgating kicks off in Bearkat Alley, just north of Bowers Stadium. Head out to tackle all the booths before the big game. Also starting at 1 p.m. a volleyball game against Texas A&M Corpus Christi will be played in the Johnson Coliseum, so if tailgating isn’t for you consider cheering on the Bearkats, —
HOCO, page 2
One Stephen F. Austin administrator is going orange. Dr. Adam Peck, Assistant Vice President and Dean of Student Affairs, is sporting an orange Sam Houston State University tie after losing a friendly wager with Sam Houston State University Dean of Students, John Yarabeck. Yarabeck and Peck have had an on-going bet for seven years centered around the long-running rivalry between SHSU and SFA. It started out with the Dean of Students of whichever university lost the Battle of the Piney Woods football game having to wear a tie the following week that featured the logo of the winning school. “We’re just trying to generate spirit in each of our student bodies,” Yarabeck said. School spirit and student support is one the most important aspect of a college community to Yarabeck. His office shelves are covered in Sam Houston apparel and memorabilia, and he is a regular at athletic events and other —
RIVALRY, page 6
Photo courtesy John Yarabeck
AXE THE JACKS. Orange is the new purple for SFA Dean of Student Affairs Dr. Adam Peck.
‘Silent Sky’ illuminates past, inspires present SHARON RAISSI Staff Reporter Lauren Gunderson’s “Silent Sky” plays out on the stage like a perfectly choreographed dance, actors and tech in sync with one another, carrying the unique and timeless story of the woman who measured our universe. “Silent Sky” follows a young Henrietta Leavitt, played by Analia McEnelly, as she navigates her job mapping stars in the early space program. Working alongside her are Annie Cannon (Kiaya Scott), a strong, powerful yet graceful leader, demure but demanding when need be, and Williamina Fleming (Cassidy Ochs), a spitfire Scottish woman not afraid to speak her mind. The plot is based on real women and their discoveries which paved the way for astronomers and space enthusiasts alike.
Complicating Leavitt’s narrative are astronomer’s apprentice Peter Shaw (played by Zach Howard) and her sister, Margaret Leavitt (played by Brita Fagerstorm). Henrietta is pulled in several directions at once, feeling forced to choose between her career, love life and family. Each choice she makes opens a door to a “what would’ve been” that is promptly silenced by the reality of “what is”, making each plot point a poignant metaphor. “This play melds the ideas of science, music, and religion; and examines the incredible power of one woman’s determination and resilience,” director Thomas Prior said. “It was a time when women were marginalized; they didn’t have a voice, the power to vote, and were attempting to discover themselves in a man’s world.” Even with the crushing historical context, the play never feels anchored to its source time. Rath-
er, it floats with the knowledge that the struggles and feelings of these characters are still alive in our hearts today. “The show was so beautiful,” Theatre Education major Jia Wolk said. “All of the actors were phenomenal and the tech did a great job at making the production feel like I was actually there.” The outstanding technical work stitched the whole show together. A sky full of stars is seen over the stage, each scene change was conducted quickly and efficiently by silent, black clad stage hands that took us from a small house in Wisconsin to the Harvard Observatory in under a minute. The music, at times complimented by Fagerstorm’s lovely singing voice, gave the show a sort of effortless flow. “I loved every minute of it,” freshman Robert Ardie said. —
SILENT SKY, page 3
Photo courtesy Today@SAM
SPOTLIGHT. Analia McEnelly played Henrietta Leavitt in Sam Houston State University’s production of “Silent Sky”. The theatre department will now turn its focus to “The Government Inspector” premiering Nov. 1.
The Houstonian | HoustonianOnline.com/news | Wednesday, October 18, 2017
Page 2 SHORE, page 1 — 21-year-old Maria del Carmen Estrada was kidnapped, sexually assaulted and strangled to death with a cord on April 16, 1992. Her body was dumped behind a Dairy Queen. Shore entered the home of 14-year-old Selma Janske, then bound and sexually assaulted her on October 19, 1993. She escaped, running away from Shore. Diana Rebollar, 9, was killed August 7, 1995. She was beaten, sexually assaulted and strangled. She was found the next day on a loading dock behind a building. On July 6, 1995, Shore kidnapped 16-year-old Dana Sanchez and sexually assaulted her causing her death. Before authorities knew who the killer was, Shore anonymously called a Houston news station with directions to Sanchez’s body. He told the station a serial killer was on the loose. Police were convinced that the anonymous tip came from the killer himself.
The murders went unsolved until DNA evidence linked him to the sexual assault of his daughters. Eventually, Shore’s DNA was then linked to evidence from the murders. When brought in for questioning, Shore confessed to the killing spree. “His crimes were predatory, and his victims the most vulnerable in society, women and children. For his brutal acts the death penalty is appropriate,” Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg said in a news release. The family fears a last-minute batch of confessions before his execution. “I know in my heart without a doubt that there are more,” another sister of Shore said. Even though the family has their doubts, Houston police and the Harris County Sheriff ’s Office both confirmed Shore is not considered a suspect in any open cases. Anthony Shore is scheduled to be executed at 6 p.m.
HOCO, page 1 — SHSU football kicks off against Lamar at 3 p.m. The 5-1 Bearkats are coming home off a comeback win last week against Northwestern State University, and fans will be watching the team as they look to beat the
To find out about who is running this year, head on over to shsu.edu/ homecoming/ court.html to read all about them.
SMMC hosts holiday workshop JOSEPH BRUNSON News Reporter Today from 6 to 7 p.m., the annual “Home for the Holidays” workshop will be at the Student Affairs Annex (SAA) room 129. It will detail methods for how to save money for the holiday. Makayla Mason, Financial Peer Coach, will be hosting the event. She confirmed the workshop will double as an informative and hands-on workshop. The event will start with showing statistics regarding how much students spend over the holidays, followed by how to cut costs. There will also be a holiday budget sheet, followed by shopping and then gift ideas. “So, we’re doing a ‘Do It Yourself Gift’,” Mason said. “[Students] are going be given a gift they can create that night and it’s, of course, free.” Mason anticipates that a new gift, a new speaker, a new
presentation and more exposure will lead to a bigger attendance than last year. “I think it’s going be a lot more fun,” Mason said. “And so it’s going to be much more appealing for people who weren’t interested last year, [the event] maybe didn’t really grab their attention last year, and we also have a much broader student base than last year. We’re bringing a lot more students into the Center so a lot more people are hearing about the events.” Mason plans to expand the shopping part of the presentation this year. “We’re going more into Black Friday, Cyber Monday, watching out for coupons and discounts and stuff like that,” Mason said. “We’re making sure students know that you don’t have to go out and shop to participate.” Mason said that students need to start saving up now seeing as holiday expenses includes many aspects like presents and travel-
ling. “Students need to know that you spend a lot of money over the holidays,” Mason said. “It’s not just presents you spend money on, it’s travelling, it’s paying for gas and different food for the duration of the holiday. And so, you really need to start budgeting now so that you can be prepared for Thanksgiving and Christmas and New Years comes around because if you don’t start now, you’re not going to be prepared.” However, she comments that gifts do not have to have monetary value. “So we have that in our gift section and it can be something hand-made,” Mason said. “It does not have to be something that you actually go out to shop for and purchase. It’s important for students to know that gifts don’t have to be expensive. Gifts are from the heart, not from the wallet”.
SHSU professor struck by University vehicle, out for semester SARAH PEARCE Senior Reporter
Photos posted to snapchat of a professor hit by a truck on campus shocked Sam Houston students last Wednesday. “I was walking down the street, coming from the LSC, and Lamar Cardinals. Photo courtesy Snapchat from a distance I see a group of Homecoming at Sam has been SNAPCHAT. Students were shocked last Wednesday when a University people on the street,” freshman going on for nearly a century. vehicle struck a pedestrian. Word spread through images shared on Snapchat. Desiree Irizarry Santiago said. While the Homecoming Queen “I started hearing ‘he hit her,’ ‘is has been a staple since the 1920’s, it a student,’ and ‘I don’t underthe Homecoming King only dates stand how this happened!” back to the 1980’s. Together the Santiago explains she saw a pair is announced at Sam Jam, university truck stopped with a newer addition to the week’s the professor laying on the street festivities. in front of it. People were hovTo find out about who is runered over her calling for help on ning this year, head on over to their phones. She says the driver shsu.edu/homecoming/court. of the SHSU truck was also html to read all about them. there talking on his phone. Voting is conducted through “Everyone was in shock, but email, and students should have kept walking trying to not make received their ballots Tuesday a bigger scene,” Santiago said. morning. But hurry Bearkats, “She looked so pale. It was a voting ends on Oct. 18 at 5 p.m. scary scene.” However you choose to celNews of who the profesebrate homecoming, remember sor was began to spread after to be safe and welcome back our her students started receiving alumni. emails letting them know of the
incident and the future of their classes. “As you may have heard, Dr. Rosanne Barker had an accident on Wednesday and is currently at the Huntsville Memorial Hospital,” an email from the history department reads. “Her injuries will, unfortunately, prevent her from teaching for the rest of the semester.” Other professors will be taking over Barker’s classes for the remainder of the semester. Santiago mentioned that she did not recognize it was her history professor that was hit until she saw the news on social media. Barker is an Associate Professor of History at SHSU started in September 1992, specializing in American Women’s History, Colonial American History and Native American History. She has taught numerous history classes, from introduction courses to graduate courses and seminars. “She is sweet, but mostly blunt and unique,” Vontavia Smith, an SHSU alumna who took her class in 2013, said.
Police Blotter: SHSU’s Finest Keep the Campus Safe Oct 11th: Auto Pedestrian Accident
The driver was turning south onto Avenue I from the private drive in the 1900 block of Avenue I. The victim was crossing Avenue I. The driver was stopped at the stop sign waiting for pedestrian traffic to clear. The driver pulled onto Avenue I, striking the victim with the front of his vehicle.
Credit Card Abuse
An officer was dispatched the Academic Building number Four in reference to a report credit card abuse. The complainant discovered fraudulent charges on the Library Science credit card. She wishes to pursue prosecution.
Oct 12th: Graffiti
An officer was dispatched to West Plant, 1830 University Avenue, in reference to graffiti. The complainant reported he observed three separate graffiti markings on the east side of West Plant.
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
An officer was dispatched to Bearkat Village dormitory, 2401 Montgomery Road, in reference to a report of drug paraphernalia. The two Residence Advisors stated they discovered drug paraphernalia. The officer identified a grinder and detected the odor of marijuana emitting from the grinder. The officer found two small brown marijuana cigar roaches inside the ashtray.
Damaged Vehicle
An officer was dispatched to the Walker Education Center, in reference to a report of criminal mischief. The complainant stated her vehicle was vandalized. She wishes to pursue criminal charges pertaining to the incident.
Oct 14th: Harassment
An officer responded to the Sam Houston State University Police Department, 2424 Sam Houston Avenue, in reference to a harassment report. The complainant advised she began receiving threatening and harassing text messages from an unknown cellular telephone. The officer identified the suspect and informed her any further contact would result in additional criminal charges being filed. The complainant confirmed she did not wish to pursue any criminal charges.
The Houstonian | HoustonianOnline.com/campusculture | Wednesday, October 18, 2017
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Kiernan discusses campus saftey MASEY WHITE Asst. Viewpoints Editor
Morgan Phillips | The Houstonian
Welcome Carol Wirth MASEY WHITE Asst. Viewpoints Editor The Public Relations Student Society of America and Priority One at SHSU cohosted PR Squared on Oct. 16. It featured special guest Carol Wirth, the president of a leading strategic communications agency in Houston, TWC Prose. Wirth is able to provide innovative solutions to address global needs pertaining to public relations, government relations, sales and marketing, community outreach and crisis management for corporations and not-for-profits. Before the actual event started, Priority One members had the chance to visit with Wirth, and ask questions regarding advice for
SILENT SKY, page 4 — “It showed that you shouldn’t give up on your dreams because you can get so close, but you can stray away and get so far.” The Sam Houston State University Department of Theatre and Musical Theatre will now turn its full attention to the premiere of the “The Government Inspector” on Nov. 1.
their future careers. “The age of technology has been a renaissance. Information is at our fingertips,” Wirth said. “Everyone has got the info, you just need the experience to go out and do it.” Wirth suggested that one way to do this that has been popularized recently is through freelance work. This allows freshly graduated individuals to gain experience while still searching for a full time career. Those seeking out freelance jobs also have the ability to be flexible with their hours, and yet still make a sufficient amount of money. Visit HoustonianOnline.com for the entire article.
Recent events in the world prove that dangerous situations can often arise unexpectedly. This leads many to feel the need to prepare for these situations. There are now many individuals and companies devoted to providing college campuses with the resources and plans needed in order to stay safe. Kiernan Group Holdings is one of those places. It is a “global consulting firm that innovated the Preparedness Without Paranoia™ approach and has helped advise leaders in campus safety management to prepare for a wide range of threatening situations.” Their theory involves encouraging campuses and students to prepare for danger, while realizing it does not need to be overwhelming or scary to do so. The CEO, Dr. Kathleen Kiernan, has a wide range of qualifications, and even taught as an adjunct Criminal Justice professor at Sam Houston State University for several years. Kiernan gives advice on how students can prepare for dangerous situations, as well as the types of situations that we may find ourselves in. When preparing for these kinds of events, it is important for campuses to have emergency preparedness techniques and ever-changing tech-
nology to enhance preparedness, response and recovery efforts. It is also essential that all members of the campus community is involved and actively exercises these emergency response plans. One of the points that Kiernan wants students to do is react to these situations and report any and all irregularity that one may see. “Reporting anomalous behavior is acceptable and is actually a personal responsibility and obligation,” Kiernan said. “Hindsight always appears with great clarity once an incident occurs, which of course is too late.” Kiernan stresses the importance of remaining aware of your surroundings at all time. “The constant distraction of social engagement, social media and the invincible spirit we so treasure also makes an individual more vulnerable to those with criminal intent,” Kiernan said. Learning to be attentive to our surroundings is key to our safety.” One suggestion Kiernan gave that SHSU already puts into practice is, “the availability and regular use of campus-wide notification and alerting capabilities, which, when regularly practiced, will increase safety and security.” KatSafe is a key notification system that will allow you to stay informed in the case of a dangerous situation. Students are able
to receive texts, phone calls and emails regarding campus-wide information through this system. It can also be beneficial for students to include their parents or loved ones in the KatSafe system so that they can also stay up-to-date. Another resource SHSU students can use is the escorts UPD provides. Any student walking on campus that feels unsafe can contact UPD and request that they be escorted. Students can also use the “buddy system” and ensure that they are not walking alone in the dark. SHSU’s KatSafe page also has many helpful tips on how to prepare for different situations, including active shooters, bomb threats, evacuation and natural disasters. These provide specific steps students can take to prepare for these situations, as well as how to react and stay safe when they do happen. Kiernan brings the importance of safety to SHSU as a group effort, and that we need to learn about the threats we should be prepared for, the signs of those threats and how to prepare for them. “Deliberate effort to learn and practice safety and security as part of everyday life,” Kiernan said. Visit HoustonianOnline.com for the entire article.
Bearkats clown around for Homecoming
BLADE, page 4 — “It showed that you shouldn’t give up on your dreams because you can get so close, but you can stray away and get so far.” The Sam Houston State University Department of Theatre and Musical Theatre will now turn its full attention to the premiere of the “The Government Inspector” on Nov. 1.
RIVERDALE, page 4 — season as the (most likely) main antagonist of the season. As for the ending to the episode, I felt that they were saving Ms. Grundy’s return to become an actual plot point. I’m all for killing her off but it was a little sudden even though it does make the man in the hood more intimidating and mysterious. The big question of the season will be who is under the mask and what is their overall goal. My only hope is that the show will avoid the trope of dragging out the big reveal until the penultimate episode or that we will go multiple episodes without touching the plotline only to have enormous twists come out of nowhere. It probably will as this is the CW but I can hope.
Photos courtesy Student Money Managment Center
SAY CHEESE. The Student Money Management Center and the Office of Equity and Inclusion | Title IX created a “Come One Come All” themed lobby area as part of the annual Departmental homecoming decorating contest. This year’s theme was Sammy Under the Big Top. (LEFT/MIDDLE) Bearkats celebrated homecoming with circus themed photos consisting of props. (RIGHT) Sammy Under the Big Top in full force. Welcome to the circus!
Tyler, The Creator announces 2017 golf lookbook ASHLEY BREEDLOVE SHSU Alumna Many performers have branched out over the years into the beauty or fashion industries. Rihanna recently launched her very own successful makeup line, Fenty Beauty, while Kayne West continues to bless us with his holy grail that is Yeezy shoes. Another performer that continues to dominate the fashion
world with his unique style is Tyler, The Creator. Tyler’s Golf Fall/Winter lookbook was announced on Oct. 11 and is now available for purchase on his website Golf Wang. To celebrate the new launch, Tyler will be making a special appearance at the store. The launch event is to be hosted by Beams Shibuya on Oct. 21, the night after Tyler performs at a sold out show in Tokyo. His newest collection features
bright pastels, bold prints and a few understated winter layering pieces. The launch ranges from more casual clothing like t-shirts, board shorts and a brightly colored track suit covered in large, retro-inspired “GOLF” logos to a bright pink coat, earth-toned winter pajamas and a casually tailored, pastel pink flower patterned suit. Tyler plays with textures in the collection with his unique pairing of pink fur shorts and matching
hat. Tyler, The Creator has a very unique fashion sense compared to other hip hop or rap superstars. He plays heavily with bright colors and bold patterns in comparison to the usual black, white and grays that performers like Kanye West are attracted to. Tyler’s collection does a great job of taking the feminine colors, patterns and materials and putting them on more boyish/ manly silhouettes.
In addition to launching his new clothing collection, Tyler will be on tour for his most recent album “Flower Boy” starting Oct. 31. This tour directly follows his appearance at the “Camp Flog Gnaw Carnival” in Los Angles, California on Oct. 28 to 29. Tyler, The Creator will be performing in both Houston and Dallas in late November. To purchase tickets or see the tours full itinerary, visit http://www. golfwang.com/tour/.
The Houstonian | HoustonianOnline.com/campusculture | Wednesday, October 18, 2017
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Blade Runner 2049 Review: Fresh air to a franchise GARRETT SHEAFFER Contributing Reporter The history of “Blade Runner” is one of commercial failure, a series of frustrating re-writes, a tragic death and the blue print for what a science fiction film should be. The movie is based from a novel titled “Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep” by the prolific novelist Phillip K. Dick. After directing “Alien”, Ridley Scott drafted a script based off the original novel and titled it “Blade Runner”. Phillip Dick died before the movie was released in theaters, but judging from his correspondence with Scott and the production studios he was not only enthusiastic but
proud of the work they accomplished. The story of the original “Blade Runner” is simple. At the dawn of the 21 century, the Tyrell Corporation unveiled a series of synthetic humanoids called Replicants. These constructs appear human but possess abilities far greater than our own and have a life span far shorter than ours. After many attempts at integration, the Replicants prove that they are a detriment to society, which in effect caused a class of mercenaries to be created known as Blade Runners to track down rogue Replicants. “Are we really the good guys?” “Is this world real or an artificial construct?” Any film or novel that makes
the audience question their surroundings or lot in life should always be held in a higher regard over its contemporaries. The sequel, “Blade Runner 2049”, was directed by Denis Villaneuve and takes place 32 years after the original film. Like the prequel, the movie takes place in Los Angeles, a city that is over-crowded and polluted. Mankind has finally exhausted the planet and the only viable option is to live off world. Portayed by Ryan Gosling, K is a Replicant Blade Runner tasked with tracking down a lead in an investigation that could have intergalactic ramifications. K is every bit as ruthless and methodical as his predecessor Deckard, who makes an appearance in the film.
His abilities as a Replicant give him not only a tactical edge over his enemies, but because of his programming he exhibits zero human emotions. In between the peppered scenes of ruthless, efficient-killing K is either interviewed by his callous and weary supervisor Lieutenant Joshi or repeatedly screened by a harsh psychiatric computer that screens him for abnormalities due to moments of posttraumatic stress he experiences on the job. Since K is not human, he is able to pass every exam placed in front on him, but his interactions with humans make him unique. K experiences every form of physical and verbal abuse you can imagine at the hands of the humans he was
designed to protect and the Replicants he was sworn to destroy and calmly takes it. It’s an interesting dichotomy between his work and his own personal life. His personal life revolves around an apartment that is well-kept despite the age and damage of the building. His only emotional connection is an AI that uses an advanced holographic system named Joi. Like K, Joi is a mass-produced construct designed to keep lonely men occupied in a crumbling world. His entire relationship with her is sincere, but for many viewers it may come off as technophilia. The film uses his vulnerabilities to make —
BLADE, page 3
Riverdale season two premieres
MASON GONZALEZ TV/Film Reviewer
Make It Stop!!
Cartoon submitted by Mitchell Isbell
The Flash bolts right in with fourth season ALICIA R. SANCHEZ Campus Culture Reporter Let’s get caught up. In season one, “The Flash” ran according to the comic book plot and aimed to create superb villains. Although the show stars Barry Allen and not the original alter ego, Jay Gerick, it still did a great job sticking with the more famous of two speedsters and committing to a direction. The main characters developed from the first season on are some of the best on television. From Barry Allen to the members of “Team Flash”, they all have great relationships with one another and are staples to the series. The second season introduced viewers to the multiverse of the idea that there are multiple planet Earth’s in the universe, not just the one we inhabit. This expanded the narrative scope in interesting ways while continuing the shows momentum. The third season premiere sped up after last season’s finale cliff hanger. As the season progressed, it slowly lost its speed and became a depressing show. Season three lost its charm and quirkiness it had in the previous seasons and traded it for more introspection and thought. Sea-
son 4 has now started airing and attempts to reignite what it used to be, the happy go lucky speed and wit. The first episode of the new season brought back the show to its roots. Although the show has some minor problems with its story arc, the introduction to this season’s villain was an unexpected welcome. The premiere sets the tone for the rest of the season, a characteristic that fans have been waiting for. With “The Flash” being on CW with other DC comic shows, the show is able to perform crossover episodes with other superhero shows such as the “Arrow”, “Super Girl” and “DC Legends of Tomorrow”. Crossover episodes are able to work well since viewers of other shows won’t need to understand or have seen other superhero’s backgrounds to understand the overall plot. The best thing about the show is that viewers who have no comic book knowledge can watch this show and become immersed in the world of heroes and villains. With “The Flash” returning for its fourth season it’s not too late to start binge watching the show. “The Flash” seasons one through three are available on Netflix.
The anticipated second season of the hit CW series Riverdale premiered last week and the series has come back with a new mystery, more parental conflicts, continuing relationship drama and shadowy figures. Riverdale is a live action adaptation of the Archie Comics franchise and is set in the town of Riverdale centering on the life of Archibald “Archie” Andrews and his friends as they deal with their relationships and the many scandals of where they live. The first season was met with both praise and criticism for its darker, gritty, dramatic tone in contrast to the light-hearted comics. At certain points, it was intriguing and peculiar, but overall it was merely an enjoyable first season with interesting twists and likable characters. The first episode of the second season is off to a solid start. All the actors are showing an ability to be more comfortable
in their characters and are still shown to have nice chemistry in their intimate scenes. The episode does a good job at hooking the audience within the first ten seconds, it spends a reasonable amount of time refreshing the audience to previous events, and then manages to set up the seasonal arcs for the main characters in a way that flows well and does not feel forced. A few negatives against the episode are how certain cast members appeared in the episode while contributing nothing in terms of dialogue, they felt ancillary. To add, a few point transitions of new scenes were random and took the viewer out of the episode for a split second, making me think something was cut between scenes sloppily. There were a few times when humor was thrown in at awkward times, making it jarring and unnecessary. While not entirely necessary, the episode will be a little easier to follow in certain areas if you have seen the previous season. As there are references to past events that new viewers might
Make It Stop!!
Cartoon submitted by Mitchell Isbell
not quite get, but there are lines of dialogue to help keep the audience up to date, and they do not feel too expositional. Below are spoilers for the episode, discussing the finer points of the narrative. Fred’s coma visions were a nice addition to the episode, making us root even more for him to survive and possibly introducing a new arc for the character to bond even more with Archie. Hopefully there are repercussions form this shooting and we see a change in Fred, rather than him just being A-OK next episode. Then there was the chilling introduction of the illustrious Hiram Lodge. While only a short scene in the ending of the episode, I feel that the season long hype built up for this character was not wasted, we know we will be seeing more of him and so far, the performance by Mark Consuelos is intimidating. I want to see how his presence is going to shake up the season —
RIVERDALE, page 3
The Houstonian | HoustonianOnline.com/viewpoints | Wednesday, October 18, 2017
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Three pitbulls get groovy to irish jig with this. For one, it completely slanders the name of journalism. True journalism is about reporting on relevant information to keep the public informed, as well as raise awareness of certain things to try and make a difference by keeping the public up-to-date. When the public sees “news sources”, in the broadest sense of the word, posting about “the insane thing you have in your house that could change your life”, it ruins the name of journalism. It further supports the idea of “fake news” and discredits the rest of the facts and important stories that come from true journalists and reporters. Certain people in our country are currently running an attack on the validity of journalism, and these headlines and “news stories” do nothing to help the case of journalists aiming to educate. In an attempt to simply get as many views as possible, clickbait sullies the purpose of journalism. Secondly, it brings attention away from the true issues at stake today. Too often you see people arguing over whether or not Kylie Jenner is actually pregnant, and not enough are concerned about the hardships our fellow Americans in Puerto Rico are
MASEY WHITE Asst. Viewpoints Editor
Obviously that headline caught your attention, and I honestly can’t blame you. “Clickbait” seems to be plaguing social media in vast amounts lately, providing ridiculous but intriguing headlines to pull readers in, usually for a subject that isn’t really worth your time. So, what’s wrong with being interested in Chris Pratt’s Starbucks order or the shocking thing this woman does every day to lose 25 pounds in a month (you’ll never guess what it is!)? Absolutely nothing—as long as this isn’t the only bit of “journalistic” content you read in a day. If that’s the case, then there are several things wrong
currently facing. While society is worrying about whether or not “Brangelina” is back together,
“Instead of
“Keeping with the Kardashians”, journalism should be focused on keeping up with our fellow human beings... ”
-Masey White Flint, Michigan has been without clean water for almost three years. Why do we not express the same outrage over this as we do over celebrities and weight loss secrets? Instead of “Keeping Up with the Kardashians”, journalism should be focused on “keeping up” with our fellow human beings, attempting to make a difference, and raising awareness on important issues. However, there is truly
nothing wrong with seeking out alternative news stories or clickbait, as long as it is balanced with an attempt at staying updated with the rest of the world’s news. If we put as much effort into reading “The 10 most overrated Halloween costumes every basic girl will be wearing this October” as we do reading “Week of wildfires polluting air as much as one year of cars”, we could be more aware of the issues other people are facing around the world, and perhaps finding ways we could provide the support they need. This doesn’t mean that you have to quit planning your Halloween costume, grab a water hose, and start fighting the wildfires in California, but it wouldn’t hurt for us to all become a little more aware of issues plaguing others around the world. As natural disasters, political discord, and general contention continues to plague our country and our world, I greatly urge you to stray further from “How this Kardashian keeps her hair shiny,” and closer to headlines that will allow you to stay informed and aware, as well as form your own opinions. The world needs your help now more than ever; begin by actively seeking out beneficial and accurate news.
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Paws up to the weather staying cold in time for Homecoming. Let’s fire up the turkey legs and open an age appropriate drink. Paws down to midterms. They expect you to pay attention to them lecture and remember? Too bad I can’t multi-task.
Welcome to College: Time to get growing
CASSIE KNUST Senior Viewpoints Writer
The other day I was scrolling through Facebook mindlessly when I came across an unexpected gem of advice. It said, “What if we stopped asking ourselves, ‘Who am I?’ and start asking ourselves, ‘Who am I becoming?’” Business consultant Sam Ovens asked people to consider something new: In Western society, we cling to the idea that we need to hold on to
our past – that our past defines us and is part of our story. What if it doesn’t? What if we’re allowed to shed who we are right now and become someone new? Ovens did just that. He used to be an average Joe trudging through college, jealous of those who were successful. Not once did he believe he could break out of his reserved and slacking shell to become something bigger. One day, it hit him. Why couldn’t he? He dropped out of college and set off on starting his own business. Everyone thought he was crazy, telling him this kind of decision wasn’t like him. He was a dropout who failed accounting, so how could he possibly run a business? He ended up running a business and became a millionaire while doing it. Of course, dropping out of college isn’t his advice here, but making changes in your life is. We all have this preconceived notion of ourselves, which is built on stories about us, memories
we have, characteristics we have acquired, and others’ opinions of us. We can shed that image like a second skin. Think about it – we’re constantly evolving from the day we’re born to the day we die. More likely than not, you’re going to be a much different person after graduating college than you were when you left high school. You’re definitely a different person from first grade to high school. We’re not supposed to remain stagnant; we’re supposed to be constantly discovering our own potential. It’s important to love yourself, but you don’t have to settle. Evolve. Focus on becoming the best version of yourself for you. If you’re an introvert, step out of your comfort zone and do things you normally wouldn’t dream of doing for a week. If you’re an extrovert, take some time to be still and quiet, alone with your thoughts. Read a book you would never think to read, take on a hobby you would
never even dream about, get a pet, eat something new, or take a spontaneous trip. Basically, try things you and your conceived self would never do. The formula to success and happiness is nonexistent. Yes, you have to work hard and be good at what you do, but it’s also all about mindset. If you are the same person when you die as you are now, what have you accomplished? Growth is a part of life. Personally, I used to be a crippling shy introvert with no self-esteem. Had you told me by age 22 that I would have held leadership positions, given speeches, and written for publications, as well as have confidence in myself, I would never have believed you. Since high school, I have been pushing myself outside of my comfort zone. I didn’t like to be around a lot of people and wasn’t energetic, so I became a camp counselor. I preferred to be a follower rather than a leader, so
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I became president of debate. I didn’t think I was good enough to pursue big dreams, so now I’m actively working towards one of the most competitive job markets. I have retained who I am at my core, but I’ve allowed experiences and growth to mold me into my present best self. My highest goal is to never stop growing, and yours should be too. It isn’t fake to be someone you’re not; it’s pushing your boundaries and finding out who you can become.
Netflix’s “Big Mouth” shows how we view puberty
NICK WARD Senior Viewpoints Writer
In September, Netflix released the trailer for a new animated series titled Big Mouth. The series would be about seventh graders experiencing puberty and all the awkward, embarrassing moments that comes with it. Due to the inevitable graphic content that comes with depicting this subject, the trailer was
released to polarized reactions. Those offended accused Netflix of child pornography, demanded it be pulled, and some even threatened to cancel their Netflix subscriptions. Despite the controversy, the show was eventually released, and received acclaim from critics and audiences alike, including myself.
However, there are still critics trying to denounce the show as filth, but they are wrong, and I want to talk about why. As stated before, the majority of criticism is coming from offended people trying to say the show is child pornography, and it is not that in the least. One, they are not actually using child actors, but animated
characters voiced by adult actors. There are still some who say it’s pornography even if it is animated, but the issue with this argument is while we do see depiction of genitals on screen, it is never done for the purpose of sexually arousing the audience. Visit HoustonianOnline.com for the entire article.
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The Houstonian | HoustonianOnline.com/sports | Wednesday, October 18, 2017
Page 6 RIVALRY, page 4 — school functions. “I think it’s important that you generate spirit as Dean of Students,” Yarabeck said. “I try to have a good smattering of pom-poms and an orange football helmet in my office.” With the Bearkats recent success against SFA football, the friendly wager has certainly favored Yarabeck. Since its inception, he has never had to put on the Nacogdoches neckwear, but Peck has been forced to sport the bright orange tie year after year. “Of course people always give him [Peck] a hard time about it,” Yarabeck said. “Seven years have come and gone, and I have yet to wear the SFA tie. It still has the cardboard backing behind it.” Yarabeck knows a time will inevitably come when he will have to break out the purple tie and sport the Lumberjacks color for a day, but for now the tie rests in one of the drawers in his bookcase. “I’m sure there will come a day where I eventually have to wear it,” Yarabeck said. “Hopefully it will be in the far distant future.” The two deans recently decided to expand their wager to cover more than just the battle of the Piney Woods football game. They began to incorporate men’s basketball, and the losing dean would wear a polo shirt with the other university’s logo. This year they will extend that to women’s basketball, as well. “Basketball is a great sport as well and gets people energized,” Yarabeck said. “Of course they have been a powerhouse in men’s basketball, so it was his way of getting back at me for the football bet.”
@HoustonianSHSU @HoustonianSHSU
Strongman
Hivan Moreno | The Houstonian
Bearkat Basketball set for 2017
W HO’ S T HAT
K AT ? Clue #1: He was born April 20, 1969 in Killeen, TX. He is the father of Jayce and Jadyn. Clue #2: He lettered in basketball and baseball at Killeen Ellison High School, where he graduated from in 1987.
SLAM DUNK. Sam Houston State University basketball is hitting full stride.
been announced, and preseason rankings have been revealed.
TYLER JOSEFSEN Sports Editor Bearkat basketball is back in action. The Sam Houston State University men’s and women’s teams have both opened up practices to begin preparing for the 2017 season. With less than one month to go before their season openers, basketball is hitting the court. The women are focusing heavily on conditioning, specifically shooting, ball handling, and defense. “We went through a lot of drills and fundamentals,” head coach Brenda Nichols said. “I thought the girls handled it well. We didn’t want to be a team coming in out of shape.” One bright spot is the return of Jenniffer Oramas who was SHSU’s leading scorer last year. She will be joined by returning teammates Lydia Baxter (the HIVAN MORENO Asst. Sports Editor Sam Houston State University junior Michael Cazares took home first place in the junior division at the USA Powerlifting Classic. Cazares was the sole Bearkat representing SHSU in the classic. With his record-breaking performance, the team can only be proud of their lifter. Although Cazares did not have his team to back him up, it did not stop him from placing first. “I volunteered to participate in the meet,” said Cazares. “I’m one of the only lifters that lift raw, which means I lift without
Photo courtesy SHSU Athletics
Practices have starts, schedule have
Clue #3: He holds two degrees from Tarleton State Universitya bachelor’s degree in exercise in sports studies, and a master’s in the same field.
team’s leading rebounder), Rachel Harrell (the team’s leading three-point shooter), and Kierra McKinney (leader in blocks). “I think any time you can have players return that benefits you on the court,” Nichols said. “We have some new kids in as well. Everyone is fighting for a position. I think that’s exciting right now.” Women’s basketball is coming off a tough 2016 campaign where they finished just 3-25 after opening the season with a difficult non-conference schedule. The team will have yet another uphill battle as they face non-Southland opponents including Rice University and Texas State. Nichols remains undaunted by the taxing schedule, however, as she has her eyes set on the ultimate prize. “Nothing comes easy,” Nichols said. “Everything we’re doing right now is geared towards winning a championship.”
On the men’s side, they look forward to competing for another winning season after their 21-13 record in 2016. They played great at home all year, sporting a 14-2 record at Johnson Coliseum. They finished just above .500 in Southland play as they ended the season 10-8 against conference opponents. Their performance in 2016 is reflected in the 2017 Southland Conference preseason poll where the Bearkats were ranked fifth. The poll was compiled based on the league’s head coaches and sports information directors. It was released Monday during the Southland Conference Social Media Day in Houston. The team has high personal standards for themselves entering the new campaign. Senior forward Christopher Galbreath Jr. played in all 34 games last season in his first year with the program. He averaged 10.1 points per game and 6.3 re-
bounds per game. This season, he is looking to raise the bar. “I’m looking forward to trying to be player of the year,” Galbreath said. “I want to average a double-double and have the team get a championship ring.” Both teams will open up the season at home as they will play their first game in Johnson Coliseum in Huntsville. The women’s team will get the action started when they welcome LSU- Alexandria Nov. 5 at 3:00 p.m. The Bearkat men tip-off against University of Texas Tyler Nov. 11 at 6:30 p.m.
the additional equipment when lifting equipped.” Even though Cazares was coming off an illness the previous week, he still trained vigorously leading up to the event. “Going into the meet, I was pretty confident,” said Cazares. “I didn’t want to push myself too much, but I ended up adding 20lbs from my original lift which is a big accomplishment.” Even though Cazares had a dominating season so far, he was not always lifting. Cazares only got into powerlifting this past year without any previous experience. I spoke with one of the members from the team and I participated in my first meet last
semester,” Cazares said. With his first meet being last semester, Cazares feels that he has grown as an athlete and a competitor. In his first meet, he placed second. From there, he never looked back. “My first meet was in April in San Antonio at Fort Hood,” said Cazares. “Since it was my first meet, I didn’t know what to expect. I had to ask my coach what I had to do.” With Cazares growing as an athlete, he feels that powerlifting has helped him grow as a student, simultaneously. “Most students don’t time manage well when transitioning to college,” said Cazares. “Students juggle school, ac-
tivities, and their social life, but power lifting has helped my time management.” Cazares has big aspirations for when he finishes his college career. He wishes to continue power lifting after college and to create his own physical training program. “After school, I plan on doing a PT program either at University of Texas or Memorial Herman, which means I could still compete with Sam Houston so I could still represent the school.” The next meet the SHSU powerlifters have their sights set on is the Long Horn open in Austin Nov. 18. Cazares will not be in that meet, but will lift in the w open next semester.
PLAYERS OF THE WEEK DAVION DAVIS WIDE RECEIVER
Junior wide receiver Davion Davis had one of the best games of his collegiate career Saturday in the Bearkats come from behind win over the Northwestern State Demons 40-36. Davis racked up eight catches for 139 yards and four touchdowns. His longest play of the night was a 70-yard catch-and-run. Despite nursing an ankle injury, Davis managed to team up with quarterback Jeremiah Briscoe for one of the most productive games of his career.
CHRISTINA HENDERSHOT GOALKEEPER
Sam Houston State University junior Christina Hendershot took home the honor of Southland Conference Goalkeeper of the Week. Hendershot turned in a flawless performance last weekend as SHSU shut out both Nicholls and Southeastern Louisiana. In the process, Henderson extended her scoreless streak to 235 consecutive minutes. She recorded five saves and faced 18 shots in the two game slate last week.