Traveller Song: Irish Music
Black History celebrated at TWU
Features pg.4 >
Special Section pg.5 >
DENTON
FEW SHOWERS High 68° Low 56° Weather pg. 2
Wednesday │February 6, 2013 │ Vol. 100, No. 3
Texas Woman’s University | Student run since 1914
Students ‘go red’ for heart health Megan Pillow Reporter
TWU students from all three campuses rummaged through their closets and drawers for anything red yesterday to join the American Heart Association’s fight against heart disease with TWU’s “Go Red for Women.”
A lunch screening and panel discussion, “Just a Little Heart Attack,” was offered, and the first 50 attendees were given free lunch in the Fitness and Recreation Center from noon-1 p.m. A panel of health promotion activists on campus answered questions from TWU students who were curious to debunk myths on health and personal wellbeing. “In my opinion, the fountain of youth is diet and exercise,” answered Michelle Reeves, Assistant Director of the TWU Fitness and Recreation Center. “It’s that simple. If you can balance those things out well, it makes it easier to deal with things mentally and socially, and there’s a lot of research to back that up.” Dr. Margaret Basiliadis, a physician of Osteopathic Medicine at Student Health Services, expressed the importance of getting 7-8 hours of sleep, and that four hours of sleep will not suffice. “Another one is your relationships — your social and spiritual health. Often times we have students who come in with
Photography by Amanda Amaral
“Go Red” supporters wear red to raise awareness about heart disease risk.
Continued pg. 3
TWU gymnastics post season-high scores Article on pg.6
Photography by Amanda Amaral
Girls Incorporated to partner with TWU Laura Hilton Reporter
Beginning in J a n u a r y, T W U i n i t i a t e d a partnership with Girls Incorporated of Metropolitan Dallas, established by a federal grant of $720,000. A TWU press release stated: “The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Children and Families recently awarded Girls Inc. of Dallas $720,000 over three years to develop, implement and evaluate a comprehensive pregnancy and Sexually Transmitted Infection prevention program.” According to Girls Inc.’s website, the group provides “girls with education enrichment and the resources they need to reach their full potential.” Girls Inc. offers girls the opportunity to attend programs to learn about avoiding pregnancy and drugs and improving their character, self-esteem and leadership skills.
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Assistant Professor in the Department of Health Studies Dr. Molly Golman explained in an email, that she met with Girls Inc. to put the programs together. Although TWU will not be a part of the program implementation, they will be “responsible for all of the data collected from the program as well as analyzing and reporting the findings.” Girls Inc. will be implementing is titled “Girls Getting Ready!” It will include “two age-appropriate comprehensive pregnancy and STI prevention and adult preparation modules,” Golman shared. She added that the program designed for girls in grades 5–8 is called “I’m Making a Difference” and the program for girls in grades 9–12 is called “Reducing My Risk.” “Girls Inc. chose us,” Golman said. “I was called by their national office over the summer to assist in the grant proposal to make sure that the evaluation component was sound and that we would be in a position to evaluate the program outcomes.” This step was taken to ensure that if the program is
Shannon Quick News Editor
There is a possible tuition increase looming in the air at TWU. Public hearings are set for Monday and Tuesday next week to discuss the issue with faculty, students and staff. The hearings will be held from noon– 1 p.m. each day in ACT 301 and will also be video-conferenced to both the Dallas and Houston campuses. Dallas may view the conference in room 3115 and Houston in room 4302. Students may pick up a copy of The Lasso next week for a followup article on the hearings.
INSIDE THIS ISSUE News
Beauty Shop Politics............................3
Features
Traveller Song......................................4
Special Section
twulasso.com
successful, it could be replicated nationwide. TWU was a perfect fit for partnership with Girls Inc., Golman said, because she has previously partnered with them to implement various prevention programs. Her role was to design, oversee and evaluate components of the programs. The target areas for the program, Golman disclosed, “were chosen based on highest need areas in Dallas.” TWU’s press release stated that the programs are slated for delivery by Girls Inc. staff on four Dallas campuses “in west and south Dallas, North Oak Cliff and Love Field.” The areas were chosen based on recent county health rankings and roadmaps that show that “Dallas county has a birth rate of 76 per 1,000 women ages 15-19, in a state ranked the fourth highest in teen birthrate by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,” according to the press release. Those wishing to learn more about the programs and Girls Inc.
Proposed tuition increases
Black History Month...........................5
Sports
Softball Begin Season.............6
Opinions
Deadline Extentions................7
Arts & Entertainment
Music Reviews.......................8
Questions or comments about The Lasso? twu_lasso@yahoo.com
2
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
Inside this issue News
pg. 3
Houston SGA encourages 2013 student leaders Most colleges are equipped with organizations that seek to enhance leadership qualities among their leaders.
Features
Denton
Few Showers
Softball starts season 2-3 in San Antonio; home opener Friday The TWU softball team opened its 2013 season last Friday, with a split on the first day of the St. Mary’s Division II College Classic ... Alex’s Angle: Pioneers deserve more spectators Last Wednesday night, I headed off to Kitty Magee Arena, hoping to catch some hoops.
Opinion
Thursday
Dallas
High 68˚ Low 50˚ Partly Cloudy
P.M. T-Storms
Thursday High 72˚ Low 52˚ A.M. Showers
Friday
pg. 4
pg. 6
The Lasso
Weather Denton, Dallas and Houston Forecast for Wednesday-Saturday
Wednesday
High 68˚
Low 56˚
Thursday
Houston
High 79˚ Low 56˚ A.M. T-Storms
T-Storms
Friday
High 65˚ Low 51˚ Mostly Cloudy
Traveller Song: Irish music at Abbey Underground Denton is know for its music scene, and with all of the resident artists, it is no wonder why.
Sports
twulasso.com |
Weekly Roundup
Friday
High 67˚ Low 52˚ Partly Cloudy Wednesday
Saturday High 66˚ Low 58˚ Few Showers
High 68˚
Low 57˚
Featured Online
Saturday High 67˚ Low 59˚ Few Showers
High 75˚ Low 56˚ Partly Cloudy Wednesday
High 70˚
Saturday
Low 60˚
High 74˚ Low 63˚ Few Showers
Photo of the week
The Daedalian
pg. 7
Photography by Jeni Berry
Deadline ignored, excuses accepted, hard workers ignored I consider myself a very diligent and attentive worker. I come to class on time ... With proper planning, saving for marriage not as daunting Saving for a wedding may at first seem nigh but impossible, especially considering the average cost of a wedding
A&E
pg. 8
“True” fiction has “reunion” with some “Oddfellows” The title track on Tomahawk’s latest album, “Oddfellows,” sounds like an Alice in Chains song on even more heroin.
Correction: In last week’s issue The Lasso mistakenly identified the running club president, Chinedu Orabuchi, in the story “Come for encouragement, run for love, ‘Follow Me.’” Orabuchi can be reached via email at COrabuchi1@twu.edu.
Lasso publication staff Editor-in-Chief Aaron Claycomb • aclaycomb@twu.edu Managing Editor Dennis Barbee • debarbee74@gmail.com
Photography courtesy of Sara Deines
Available online at http://issuu.com/thelasso/ docs/deadalian_final_01222013. Readers may also access the journal through twulasso.com
Co-workers at TWU’s Department of Public Safety retaliate against Mary Trabazo, who retired last Friday, for years of practical jokes. The group collected parking tickets to cover her car and placed boots on three tires.
This Day in History
How to reach us
For further Lasso historic articles please see pg. 4
Email twu_lasso@yahoo.com Mail Email Website Letters from Readers twu_lasso@yahoo.com twulasso.com
1984 1963
The Lasso Website Stoddard Hall Rm 311 twulasso.com
Photo Editor Jeni Berry • jnberry@gmail.com Sr. Reporters Ginger Hughes • gingerreneehughes@gmail.com Stephanie Terrell • sterrell92@hotmail.com
Jr. Copy Editor Alexander Ancira • aancira@twu.edu
Reporters Carlis Lollie • clollie@twu.edu Christa Teller • cteller@twu.edu Kyla Rae • krae@twu.edu Laura Hilton • remember2smile247@ymail.com Marlou Macaraeg • mmacaraeg@twu.edu Megan Pillow • mpillow@twu.edu
New Media Editor Erin Marissa Russell • erussell2@twu.edu
Photographer Amanda Amaral • ama.e.amaral@gmail.com
medical investigation
at West Jones Hall,
was made at 1500
Wednesday, Jan. 30.
News Editor Shannon Quick • squick1@twu.edu
Designer Maura Teague • maurateague@gmail.com
Oakland St., Sunday,
Features Editor Shelby Baker • sbaker3@twu.edu
Business Manager Christian Terry • cterry1@twu.edu
Criminal Mischief
was made at 301 Administration Dr.,
Arts and Entertainment Editor Stanton Brasher • omegakatproductions@gmail.com
Asst. Business Manager Bethany Wineinger • bwineinger@twu.edu
A report of a criminal mischief was made
Thursday, Jan. 31.
Opinions Editor Marygail Isobel Lakner • mlakner@twu.edu
Business Assistants Allie Beaurline • abeaurline@twu.edu Germaine Balanon • germaine92@yahoo.com
Monday, Jan. 28. Vehicle Collision
A felony warrant arrest
Advisor Bo Carter • scarter5@twu.edu
A report of a vehicle
was reported at 301
collision was made at
Administration Dr.,
301 Administration Dr.,
Thursday, Jan. 31. An
Monday, Jan. 28.
arrest was made for
Sr. Copy Editor Brianna Casey • bcasey1@twu.edu
Sports Editor Amanda Clark • clarkamandarose@gmail.com
All Rights reserved. The Lasso is a weekly student publication of Texas Woman’s University, written and produced by students and printed at DFW Printing. Editors develop their own editorial and news policies. The presentation of news and editorials and the personal opinions expressed in The Lasso are those of The Lasso staff and writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of the faculty, staff, students, administration, or the Regents of Texas Woman’s University.
The Lasso at Texas Woman’s University Want to advertise? The Lasso is excited to offer online classified ads to Texas Womans University and the city of Denton. TWU students and faculty can post free online classifed ads through the twulasso.com website by clicking on the classifieds tab. Contact team@campusave.com for technical difficulties.
This week’s issue Vol. 100 No. 3
Mail Letters from Readers The Lasso Stoddard Hall Rm 311 Email twu_lasso@yahoo.com Website twulasso.com
LETTERS AND VIEWPOINTS POLICY We value reader submissions. As a university newspaper we have certain criteria that limit what we will place inside our newspaper. Please limit letters to 300 words. Columns submitted should be no longer than 600 words. Please include your name, address, phone, and email address. Your contact information will not be published. Unsigned submissions will not be published. All submission are also edited for length and clarity. Submissions become property of The Lasso.
TWU Police Report Medical
Medical Emergency
Investigation
A report of a medical
A report leading to a
emergency made
Harassment
Jan. 27.
A report of harassment
at 1210 Old Main, Felony Warrant Arrest
burglary of a habitat. Medical Investigation
Criminal Trespass
A report leading to a
A report of criminal
medical investigation
trespass was made
was made at Stark
at Stark Hall, Friday,
Hall, Wednesday, Jan.
Feb. 1.
30. Malfunctioning Damaged Property
Elevator
A report of damaged
A report of a
property was made
malfunctioning elevator
at the 300 Texas St.,
was made at the DGL,
Wednesday, Jan. 30.
Monday, Jan. 28.
This is a part of the daily activity log produced by the TWU Police Department. To report a criminal incident on campus, please call 940-898-2911
World News — The Year in Review 29 years ago
The Daily Lass-O Reports — 50 years ago
The U.S. attacks San Juan del Sur in Nicaragua. National Union of Mine Workers in England begins a 51-week strike. Senate rejects amendment to permit spoken prayer in public schools. AIDSvirus is identified. 1,200 die in Sikh “Golden Temple” uprising India. Deoxyribonucleic Acid is successfully cloned from an extinct animal. U.S. Government orders that seat belts or airbags will be required in all cars by 1989.
TWU Baptist Student Union members travel to Austin to attend the annual Leadership Training Conference. The Southern Christian Leadership Conference plans a tribute in the Guinn Commons honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. for Black History Month. An editorial regarding food served in Hubbard Hall asks that mystery foods be identified for students.
1988
The Daily Lass-O Reports — 25 years ago Dale Jenkins, Chief of the Environmental Biology Science Program at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, speaks to TWU students about experiments the program is conducting to determine whether there is life on the moon, Mars, Venus, or other planets. Another article discusses unusual weather patterns across the country that had temperatures falling 32 degrees below freezing in parts of Maine, while TWU students were nursing sunburns received during horseback riding and tennis in 70-plus degree weather in February.
1938
The Daily Lass-O Reports — 75 years ago Rollo Walther Brown, author of Lonely Americans, On Writing the Biography of a Modest Man, The Firemakers, Toward Romance, The Creative Spirit, and The Writer’s Art: By Those Who Have Practiced It lectures students and leads discussion groups. The library begins demonstrating the new Talking Book Machine for the Blind that sight impaired students could begin using. The Hon. Ernest O. Thompson addresses the largest winter graduating class in the history of Texas State College for Women, speaking to 49 graduates. Contributed by Ginger Hughes
The Lasso |
twulasso.com
Houston SGA encourages 2013 student leaders Carlis Lollie Houston Reporter
Most colleges are equipped with organizations that seek to enhance leadership qualities among members. Of these organizations, there is a universal sect of campus leaders who guide all students across the nation: the Student Government Association. Students who typically join SGA have goals in mind that benefit the student body as a whole. These students are generally referred to as leaders, and it is important for students to know who represents their campus. Current SGA President for the Houston campus Jodi-Ann Bailey expressed her goals for the organization, stating: “As President, one of my main goals was to create more awareness to students about the role that the Student Government Association played on campus and how they could make a difference.” Promoting the organization on campus is very important in getting students to understand that they have
a voice and that any issues or concerns they have should go through the SGA to be formally addressed. The SGA on the Houston campus has been very active in getting students involved in various activities. Student Tarah Maxwell explained: “I really enjoy attending the activities that SGA promotes on campus. I just wish I had more time to attend all of the events.” SGA advisor Wanda Shanklin recounted two SGA events that students greatly enjoyed: “SGA has been successful in their efforts by identifying two signature programs for SGA that include Flag Football and the Mystery Bus. Students from all disciplines are encouraged to get involved in the various activities on campus.” SGA provides daily study snacks for students throughout the week in the mornings and evenings. “I think it’s great that they provide snacks for us. I know for a fact that other schools don’t provide this for their students,” said senior
Nursing student Faith Hawkins. “I think it’s a really good thing for students.” Not only is the SGA responsible for providing snacks and activities to relieve the stressors that are encountered in day-to-day activities, it is also instrumental in tackling student issues. Bailey explained, “I am striving to finish my term out strong by evaluating all the concerns that were addressed by students and ensuring that their voices were heard by seeking out change if applicable.” SGA representatives stand for the student body’s interests at various meetings held by the Board of Regents and other officials. These meetings are sometimes called to discuss campus-wide changes and seek the voice of the students. Good representation is key to achieving changes and policies that are desired by students. The Student Government Office is located on the second floor in the Office of Student Life. SGA meetings are held every second Monday from noon-1 p.m. in room 6310. For those in attendance, lunch is provided.
Award-winning author speaks to students — ‘Beauty Shop Politics’ Stephanie Terrell Sr. Reporter
TWU’s Department of History and Government held “Beauty Shop Politics,” an event which explored the politics of black beauty culture, empowerment of women, activism and entrepreneurship. Associate professor from the University of Texas in Austin and author of “Beauty Shop Politics: African American Women’s Activism in the Beauty Industry,” Dr. Tiffany M. Gill, was invited to speak at the TWU event about her novel. According to UT Austin’s website, Gill teaches in its Department of History, but is also associated with the Warfield Center for African and African American Studies and the Center for Women’s and Gender Studies. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in American Studies from Georgetown University and her Ph.D. in American History from Rutgers University. According to UT Austin’s website, “Beauty Shop Politics” focuses on how black women working in beauty parlors created opportunities for political, economic and social activism to help change the modern black female’s identity. “Dr. Tiffany Gill connects
history, the beauty industry and business management in a complex and compelling story,” Assistant Professor of History Dr. Sara Fanning explained in an email. “Her knowledge about the people involved and the issues at stake during this momentous time in American and African-American history is huge. She became interested in this subject when she realized that beauty shops were far more than places to get your hair done, but were sites of political and community activism within the African American community. Beauty shop owners and workers were some of the front line workers in early 20th century political movements for civil and economic equality.” On UT Austin’s website, Gill explained her motivation for the novel: “I wanted to unearth stories of African American women within their political lives, their entrepreneurial lives, and this topic was one that allowed me to look at and examine a lot of things that I’m really interested in — business, politics and issues of representation. Analyzing beauticians and beauty shops allowed me to work through all
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
News
of those issues.” According to UT Austin’s website, Gill found that women in beauty salons provided black women with an environment where they could relax and find empowerment through their discussions and observations by the beauticians at work. This type of atmosphere, which promoted a sense of security and inspiration to further empower women, was not common, but beauty parlors were a place African-Americans began to feel free, according to Gill. “Beauty Shop Politics” was awarded the Letitia Woods Brown Memorial Book Award in 2010, which is given to works that enhance writings about Africana women. According to The Association of Black Women Historians’ website, the other criteria include that the work must be written by an African woman scholar, possess innovation and display a unique insight. For more information about Gill or “Beauty Shop Politics: African American Women’s Activism in the Beauty Industry,” students can visit UT Austin’s website at http://www.utexas.edu/cola/ depts/history/features/_features/
Richard
III
National News Notes discovered
—
Remains discovered last year in Leicester, England, have been determined to be the 528-year-old bones of the last Plantagenet King, Richard III. DNA taken from teeth and bones matched two living relatives.
Veteran killed at Texas gun range — Former Navy Seal Chris Kyle and veteran Chad Littlefield were gunned down at a North Texas gun range Saturday. Suspect Eddie Ray Routh is being held on a capital murder warrant.
Ravens Win Super Bowl — With excitement in the air and a 34-minute blackout whipping fans to a frenzy the Baltimore Ravens claimed victory in a 34-31 win over the San Francisco 49ers to become the Super Bowl XLVII champions.
The Black Dahlia rears her head — The
1947 murder of Elizabeth Short still has the Los Angeles Police Department perplexed. Cadaver dogs were used to search the home of a former LAPD detective believed to be a suspect. The dogs smelled remnants of human remains in the former detective’s home, Sowden House.
Cyber-attack strikes U.S. Energy Department — Reports this week confirm a
cyber-attack on the U.S. Energy Department’s Washington-based headquarters two weeks ago. Officials confirmed that they are working to plug security holes and are looking at ways to avoid these attacks in the future.
Several dead after tour bus crash — Sunday, a tour bus carrying a group from Tijuana, Mexico, crashed in the San Bernardino Mountains outside Los Angeles. The group was headed back from a skiing trip to Big Bear Mountain. Records show
CONT. from pg. 1 go red
multiple symptoms, [and] we run labs and find nothing.” Dr. Basiliadis explained that the symptoms of stress affect people in different ways and it is very important to recognize these symptoms and seek help immediately, before becoming ill. Director of the TWU Counseling Center Dr. Denise Lucero-Miller agreed, and encouraged students to utilize the on-campus counseling services that are offered. Ms. Sheila Pogge, a doctoral intern at TWU’s counseling center, explained that physiological symptoms of stress can cause physical sickness which can cause even more physiological stress, so it is important to keep both items in good health. Also joining the panel was Dr. Nancy DiMarco from the Nutrition Food Science Department, who urged students to recognize that the first symptoms of a heart attack is denial, which can tie in with anxiety attacks as well.
that the bus failed several federal vehicle safety inspections over the last two years. As of Monday, the death toll had reached eight.
Civil lawsuit being filed against the S&P
— The U.S. Justice Department is preparing to file suit against ratings agency Standard & Poor’s, for its alleged misgrading of financial matters during the financial crisis.
Calling all Trekkies — The Texas Lottery is preparing to break a Guinness world record. With the original Captain Kirk (William Shatner) on hand, trekkies will gather March 30 at the Dallas Convention Center to break the Guinness World record for the number of people dressed in Star Trek uniforms in one location. The current record is 1,040 participants.
Services to be held for Kaufman County prosecutor — Memorial services for slain
Kaufman County prosecutor Mark Hasse will be held Saturday in Terrell. The memorial will be held at the Terrell School District’s Performing Arts Center at 2 p.m.
Texas school financing is unconstitutional — A judge ruled Monday that the system in place used to fund Texas schools is unconstitutional. The system does not fund schools properly, nor does it distribute funds equally, Judge John Dietz ruled. The state is expected to appeal the decision. The current law in place does not affect higher education directly.
Students then showcased their red clothing with pride by posing for a group photo in the gym soon after. Students may also participate in the “I love my heart” cardio challenge for the month of February at the Fit and Rec Center with the opportunity to receive a prize. Sponsored by the Department of Health Studies, Student Health Services, Fitness and Recreation, Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Institute of Women’s Health, and the Leadership Institute, the goal of the campaign is to help raise women’s awareness of cardiovascular disease and empower women to reduce their risk. “Wear Red Day is a chance for us to arm ourselves with knowledge about this devastating disease and to raise awareness that will help the AHA advance its research and education efforts,” according to the TWU Health Studies Blogspot in regards to the event. Assistant Director of Health Promotion from
Student Health Services Sonia Redwine, Graduate Academic Advisor and Assistant Graduate Program Coordinator from the Department of Health Studies Morgan O’Donnell, Assistant Directors of the Fitness and Recreation Center Reeves and Sammie Jendrush teamed up in the hopes of making this event a success. “Last year was our first year to ‘Go Red,’ and we had a great response. We are hoping to continue that momentum again this year,” Redwine explained in an email. “With all of these great opportunities on campus, I hope everyone takes some time to learn something that can impact their health and use that information to spark action.” For more information, students may contact the Student Health Services Health Promotion at 940898-3833, or visit its Facebook page or website at www.twu.edu/ health-promotion. Students who wish to know more about the American Heart Association’s part of “Go Red” can visit www. goredforwomen.org.
TWU BRIEFS
Virginia Chandler Dykes Scholarship Marygail Isobel Lakner Opinions Editor
The Virginia Chandler Dykes Scholarship has been awarded to two Texas Woman’s University students, Lisa Ferguson and Elodie Singer. Ferguson is working toward a doctorate in Nursing Practice after earning her Associate’s Degree in Nursing, working as a nurse during her undergraduate degree and spending just more than 20 years in the Air Force as a nurse, where she found an interest in women’s health. She is planning to graduate this coming May. Singer is a Music Therapy major, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Voice Performance from Nyack College in New York. After earning her Bachelor’s Degree, she spent time in Hungary, where she found her calling in music therapy. Singer’s coursework will be complete in May as well, with an additional six-month internship to finish her thesis project. Both Ferguson and Singer will receive their scholarships Feb. 21 at the 11th annual Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award Luncheon.
Jill Bellomy and Steven Gerardi from different institutions, are also set to receive scholarships.
Faculty Spotlight Series
Marygail Isobel Lakner Opinions Editor
As part of the Faculty Spotlight Series, Dr. Kenneth Foster will be giving a lunchtime lecture on Feb. 12 entitled “Public Perceptions of People with Schizophrenia: A Replication Study.” Foster will discuss the social stigmas associated with mental illnesses, with a focus on schizophrenia and how individuals with family members with such afflictions are impacted regarding tolerance and acceptance. All Faculty Spotlight sessions are held in Stoddard Hall, room 308 from 12:25-12:55 p.m. Students are encouraged to attend and bring a brown-bag lunch to the sessions. The next session will highlight Jeff Robb and Jake Blosser as they explore the topic entitled “Colonial Parenting, Violent Video Games and the First Amendment: A Historical
Critique of Justice Clarence Thomas’ Dissent in Brown vs. Entertainment Merchant’s Association” on Feb. 26. For further information on these and upcoming lectures, readers can contact Blosser at jblosser@twu.edu or by calling 940-898-2133.
The symposium will take place on the Denton Campus and virtually on Apr. 16-17. For more information and application materials, students can go to http://www.twu.edu/ research/student-symposium.asp.
2013 Student Creative Arts and Research Symposium Shannon Quick News Editor
The 2013 Student Creative Arts and Research Symposium dates have been set. Students who wish to participate will need to submit their abstracts through the SharePoint System by Feb. 25. Applications are also being taken at this time for the Chancellor’s Student Research Scholar. Nominations are also due via the SharePoint system by Feb. 27. Both undergraduate and graduate students are encouraged to participate. There are several formats students can use, including poster presentations, platforms, panels, and virtual presentations.
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Features
| The Lasso
Traveller Song: Irish music at Abbey Underground Shelby Baker Features Editor Denton is known for its music scene, and with all of the resident artists, it is no wonder why. Everything from Jazz to Blues to Irish folksongs can be heard playing down the streets at night. Music is ingrained in the city itself, and adding another dose of lyrical fever to the bustling music scene at the Abbey Inn tonight is Traveller Song, three men passionate about their craft. Traveller Song began at a Renaissance Faire in 2010 when Jeremy Welch invited Matt Young to perform on stage with him. Though the two had very different musical backgrounds growing up, their passion and love for the music was mutual. “The tradition of Irish music, more so than any other musical style, is one that has managed to survive, thrive and evolve over centuries,” Young stated. “It’s one that I want to see continue thriving for centuries more.” Both artists grew up in musically–oriented families. Welch was constantly surrounded by American Folk, Bluegrass, Country, and Gospel music, picking up a guitar at the young age of 15. Largely selftaught, he has learned to play guitar, mandolin, stand-up bass, bodhran, tin whistles, flutes, and the five-course cittern. Through his dad’s Cowboy band, he discovered Celtic music. According to Welch, his father loved knowing the history of the songs they sang and kept finding Irish and Scottish influences in Cowboy music. Afterwards,
Welch began attending Irish jam sessions around his town to soak up everything he could. Young, on the other hand, spent the first few years of his life in the New Orleans area before moving to Memphis, Tenn. He sang in choirs, took private voice lessons from the head of the graduate department at UNT and majored in vocal performance before beginning his touring career in opera. He performed at locations such as St. Louis, Austria and Wexford, Ireland before concluding his operatic career, by returning to Fort Worth to play the Mikado. “I was getting rather roadweary and wanted to see what else this life had to offer me,” he reminisced. “While I was in high school and college, I had performed at the Scarborough Renaissance Festival … Whenever I was home from touring, I always returned to the festival and its music. It was there that I met Jeremy, and after years of crossing paths, we decided to combine our talent, skills and love of the music.” In 2012, the duo found a kindred spirit in Graham Shurtleff, whose background in orchestral concert violin added another key style to the mix. Together, the trio shares over 30 years of musical experience. “Performing with these guys is like coming home,” Welch stated. “It seems like there’s one brain driving the music, shared between the three of us. We all come from different musical backgrounds, but the common factor we all share is a passion for the music we play, and that’s what drives our collective style.” According to Welch, the
original concept was to focus on songs by or about those without fixed homes, such as the Romani, soldiers, travelers, etc. Tight harmonies, energizing instrumentals and dynamic stage presence combined with their concept has blessed the act with a growing fan base in the DFW and Denton pub scenes. Welch described the group’s style as “fun, engaging, participatory, moving, and, most of all, alive. We aim to get your foot tapping with driving rhythms, to make the characters in our ballads come alive before you and to see your glasses raised with us as we celebrate the
“The tradition of Irish music, more so than any other musical style, is one that has managed to survive, thrive and evolve over centuries” - Member of Traveller Song Matthew Young
gathering of friends in uniquely Irish fashion.” The fans play a major part in the act as well. They impact how the band tailors a show, whichsongs it performs and where the performance takes place. The trio takes song
requests, whether they know the song or not, and has asked the fans to vote online as to what will be recorded on the upcoming album. “To anyone that isn’t familiar with this music and this culture, I highly recommend
that you take some time to explore it,” Young stated. “It’s amazing to see how such a small island has made such a strong and lasting impact on so many people through this music. At the very least, it’s good music for just getting together with friends, having a drink and enjoying good times.” Traveller Song will be performing at the Abbey Inn on the Denton Square tonight from 7:30-9:30 p.m. For more information, or to keep track of the band’s updates, visit the group’s Facebook page entitled, Traveller Song.
From left to right - Graham Shurtleff, Jeremy Welch and Matthew Young perform at a local pub.
Photo courtesy of Traveller Song
Saying farewell to Phyllis Sprayberry
Shelby Baker Features Editor
What’s everyone talking about? • Prom Dress Drive — Donate prom dresses, tuxedos and accessories in support of the Child Abuse Prevention Society to benefit Foster Youth. • Men of TWU Luncheon — Wednesday, Feb. 20 in the Hubbard Hall Banquet Room. • Radical Alliance for Gender Equality — Presenting a forum on Guerrilla Sex Education on Feb. 14 at 7 p.m. at UNT as a response to the connecton between abstinence-only- education and rape culture. • Sororities and societies are looking for new recruits. • Materials: Hard & Soft — A new exhibit in the Meadows Gallery at the Center for the Visual Arts, Dallas. Check the board each week for new opportunities and events.
individuals: Phyllis Sprayberry. “She’s always caring, wishing well and is such a part It is easy to take others for of our lives,” assistant to the granted. Dean of Professional Education Custodians, construction Kathleen Hedges said. For the last 29 years, Sprayberry has awakened earlier than most and cleaned from 3-11 a.m. In that time, she has taken care of the Arts and Sciences building, Guinn Residence Hall, Pioneer Hall, MCL, the Music building, and Stoddard Hall. “My mother-in-law used to work here and my friend Jean South used to work here,” Sprayberry remembered. “I just decided, well, I wouldn’t mind TWU.” Through the years, Sprayberry witnessed almost 30 years of TWU history. She watched different presidents take charge, watched changes take place and had the ability to become acquainted with a great many people. “I started out in the Arts and Sciences building,” she continued, “where they put me with a woman named Jewel Frizzeo, and she was a very special lady who taught me everything. We always worked together in the dorms, which was hard business but fun. She knew her. ” Eight years ago, Sprayberry Photography by Jeni Berry was moved to Stoddard Hall, Phyllis Sprayberry received lots of hugs and well wishes at where she has worked alone her retirement party from friends such as Judy Elias (left). playing caretaker to all four
From TWU archives (The Lasso news) As The Lasso reaches its centennial year of publication next fall, we are looking into the past to reveal the foundation that has made this newspaper one of the oldest continuous publications in the country. We invite you to join us here weekly as we uncover 99 years of TWU and Lasso history. It will be an interesting look into how much we have grown, not only as a publication, but also as a university of productive citizens. We will not be editing the following article by today’s standards. Instead, we will maintain history as it was originally recorded. The following selection is from an Lasso article originally published in 1984.
Researched by Ginger Hughes Sr. Reporter Attendance down, flu epidemic grows By Connie Kelly Teachers and students alike have been “bugged” with the flu epidemic that has spread quickly through Denton, causing low attendance in many departments at TWU. Although some departments on campus have not been affected at all by the flu, others have been hit hard.
“We have two to three students call in sick each day over the past two weeks,” Annette Wheldon, secretary in the Department of Music and Drama, said. According to Ms. Wheldon, many of the students who are sick are sometimes out for a week. Dr. Richard Rodena, Music and Drama chairman, reported Monday morning that only three of the 13 students in his class were present. On the other hand, attendance in the Department of Language and Literature has been reported as normal. “I was
surprised at the attendance in my classes. It has been quite normal,” Dr. Charles T. Bruce said. According to supervising Nurse Marie Draudt of Student Health Services, students have been going to Hygeia to be treated. “We have had quite a few patients come in with flu symptoms. In the past two weeks, we have had five to nine overnight patients every day, which is quite a few for us,” Ms. Draudt said. Although attendance is improving at the child care center this week, director Jan Hill estimated that out of their
workers, embalmers – all overlooked, but society cannot function without them. Last Thursday, TWU said goodbye to one of these important
180 enrollment, 30 children were absent each day in the past two weeks. “We maintain our policy of isolating a sick child, contacting parents and having them sent home as soon as possible,” Ms. Hill said. Any child who did arrive at the center sick was sent back home. Symptoms have been reported also among some of the TWU athletes. “We have had some suffer mild cases of the flu, but I feel that most of them are in good condition, which has helped them fight off this type of infection,” Jo Kuhn, director of the athletics said. Jackie Rue, student activities secretary, said no one in the office has been affected by the outbreak this week, but it did go through the entire office – housing, student activities, and student
employment – a few months ago. According to Dr. Karl Kappas of the National Center for Disease Control’s Influenza Surveillance Branch, health officials expect the current outbreaks to spread in the next few weeks. Students who have been fortunate enough not to have been affected by the outbreak
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floors. As time went on, it became more and more challenging for her to handle the whole building by herself and she made the decision to retire. “We started out just the two of us, and it’s just the two of us again,” her husband Danny Sprayberry said. “There’s lots of things we’d like to see and do and we’re looking forward to it.” As a farewell to Sprayberry, faculty and staff in Stoddard Hall attended her retirement party last Thursday. Gifts were given, cake was served and a poem was read aloud. She was surrounded by her husband and grandsons along with coworkers giving hugs and best wishes. “I’ve known Phyllis five … six years,” Educational Leadership Senior Secretary Mary Honard stated. “I’m really gonna miss her, not just as a custodian, but as a person. She was always smiling no matter how hard she worked. She’s wonderful.” To Sprayberry, the people in Stoddard Hall can never be replaced. “Most of the ladies are close to me, and I feel close to them,” she elaborated. “Everybody is sweet and I told them I’d come back and see ‘em every once in a while. I’m gonna miss everybody; they’ve been so good to me and understanding. They are special people in my heart.”
might want to be cautious in the future since reports indicate that the outbreak has not reached its peak, health officials said. Draudt advised students with the flu to try keeping their fever down and treating the cough and sore throat frequently. Plenty of bedrest is also a necessity in beating the bug.
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Wednesday, February 6, 2013 | 5
Black History Month
SGA president Brandon Vance is representing you Laura Hilton Reporter According to www. africanamericanhistorymonth. gov, in 1976 “President Gerald Ford urged Americans to ‘seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout the history,’” creating the first ever Black History Month. “Colin Powell is at the top of my list,” TWU Student Senate President and Student Government Association Vice President Brandon Vance shared. “He wasn’t a politician — he was a statesman. There is a difference,” he continued. President Vance added that he also looks up to President Barack Obama as well as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., for all he did for the Civil Rights Movement. Vance shared his thoughts on Black History Month:.
“As a person that tries to be colorblind, I’m not immune to the world,” he stated. “Knowing a little bit of the history of my grandparents … my grandmother actually worked on a plantation in the south,” he continued. “I do not feel like there is anything I cannot do.” While growing up in New Orleans, Vance said his mom instilled the belief in him that he could do whatever he wished as long as he put the effort and work into it. “TWU has really helped me see that that [idea] is truly, truly possible,” he said. After his high school graduation, Vance joined the Navy and was stationed in San Antonio. He found his way to Dallas after leaving the Navy, first attending community college and ultimately making his decision to transfer to TWU. “I have told this to a lot of people,” Vance shared, explaining that TWU was “the school that would take most of
my credits.” “I put the blame squarely on the shoulders of Amy O’Keefe, the director of Commuter Services,” he stated. O’Keefe, being the Student Veteran Association Advisor, thought Vance would be a good fit for Student Senate and recommended his involvement. Participation in politics, asking questions, and sharing ideas is something Vance said he does not shy away from. Juggling schoolwork with Senate and SGA is difficult, Vance stated, but he explained that students just have to know that school comes first and sometimes say no. There are several people who Vance attributed his success at TWU to in addition to O’Keefe, such as Director of the Leadership Institute Gen. (USAF Ret.) Mary Saunders, SGA Executive President Joleesia Berry and Director of the Center for Student
Development Ana Barraza. “Brandon makes an excellent leader because he questions,” Barraza declared. “He not only questions the administration on items that students are concerned about, but questions the students, his peers, as to what they are doing to contribute to the solution of those concerns.” As for the future, Vance hopes that the country will keep moving forward. “My hope is that the two-party system we have will continue to improve,” he said. “A system where debate is there — where people can compromise and do what’s best for the country.” He added that his hope is that students will take the opportunity to run for both Senate and SGA positions on campus and get involved at TWU. Photography courtesy of TWU Student Government Association
TWU gymnast performs at athletic and academic peak Stephanie Terrell Sr. Reporter Sophomore Business Administration major and gymnast Kayla Jones’ time at TWU can be traced through her accomplishments as an athlete and a scholar. Not only has Jones displayed her dedication to academics as a representative of TWU’s Honors Scholar Program at a national conference, but she has also shown her commitment to athletics after recently being nominated as Lone Star Conference representative for the national Student-Athlete Advisory Committee. Last November, approximately 16 honors students accompanied honors coordinator Elizabeth Yelverton and honors director Dr. Alfred G. Litton
to the National Collegiate Honors Council conference in Boston. NCHC is an annual conference that brings together honors programs from colleges and universities throughout the United States to present on student and faculty research and to provide the opportunity to further develop honors programs as a whole through presentations of successful endeavors accomplished by other programs. According to NCHC’s website, subjects also presented on include: curriculum development, internships, leadership development, study abroad opportunities and innovative teaching techniques. Jones, along with fellow TWU athletes Stephanie Repp, Kendra Sancet and Bailey Vrazel, presented about the challenges of recruiting athletes as honors students. According to the NCHC website, the presentation
focused not only on the recruiting of athletes into an honors program, but also methods of retaining these athletes throughout their undergraduate career. “My experience at the National Collegiate Honors Council was absolutely amazing,” Jones said. “I loved travelling with the Honors Program and having three other athletes along with me to present. The Honors Program is so supportive, coming to our competitions and working with our schedules. Deciding to join was one of the best decisions I have ever made.” Along with representing the TWU Honors Scholars Program, Jones now will be representing the National Collegiate Athletic Association Division II athletes affiliated with the Lone Star Conference. According to the TWU Athletics website, Jones will hold this position through the
2016 NCAA Convention, and she will represent 11 LSC institutions, including TWU. Jones will be the first TWU athlete to ever represent the LSC on the SAAC. “When I first found out that I had been chosen, I felt so honored,” Jones explained. “When I applied for the position, I knew I would be going up against some very talented student-athletes. There were a lot of great candidates from the Lone Star Conference, so I feel really blessed to have been chosen.” According to the TWU Athletics website, Jones’ main duties include expressing student-athlete concerns about Division II legislation, such as championships enhancements, NCAA rules education, faculty/student-athlete relationships, and the development of campus and conference SAAC. Jones’ time as a TWU gymnast has
been successful, including a USA Gymnastics All-America nomination on vault and being voted co-captain of the TWU gymnastics team by fellow gymnasts. Despite all of the challenges that come with being an athlete and a college student, Jones said she enjoys the experience and rises to face each obstacle. “Balancing my life as a student and an athlete is never an easy thing,” Jones said. “It requires more work and less play, but it is the only way I know how to do it. I have been a student-athlete for all my life and I enjoy every second of it. It challenges me every day to go above and beyond and I couldn’t ask for anything more.”
Financial Aid Director epitomizes campus administration Megan Pillow Reporter Director of Financial Aid Governor Jackson said he found the idea of TWU being a place where he can make a “significant difference in enabling students to meet their educational objectives” quite appealing. Jackson graduated from Texas A&M-Commerce University with a bachelor’s
Shannon Quick News Editor
degree in mathematics and physics before obtaining a master’s degree from the University of North Texas in student service administration. However, much has changed since Jackson went to school. “One of the most significant changes includes the cost of a college education, which has increased by more than 1,000 percent,” explained Jackson in an email. “The use of technology, an overall increase in college
enrollments, an increase in the enrollment of women, students of various races and ethnicities, students with disabilities — the baccalaureate degree has become the minimum credential for an increasing number of employers, there has been an explosion in enrollments at community colleges, and grade inflation in secondary education has become a major problem for universities in that students
graduate from high school with high grades, but many have difficulty demonstrating the level of skills that those grades represent.” With an increase in enrollment of students of color, TWU celebrates Black History Month in honor of remembering important people and events that contributed to history’s African Diaspora. “I begin by giving thanks for Dr. [Martin Luther] King
[Jr.]’s life, his courage and his leadership in helping us deal with difficult issues such as racism, materialism and militarism,” Jackson stated via email. “I believe that his dream of a racially-just, inclusive and loving society can be attained. I spend the rest of the day celebrating with family and friends and participating in service projects through my church.”
Organizations around campus celebrate
this
month
with
numerous events, such as the Soul Food Dinner, going on Feb. 20 in the Student Union. “I think TWU does an excellent job, academically and socially, of blending cultures and celebrating
multiculturalism,”
Jackon concluded.
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Wednesday, February 6, 2013
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Sports
The Lasso
Softball starts season 2-3 in San Antonio; home opener Friday Amanda Clark Sports Editor
The TWU softball team opened its 2013 season last Friday with a split on the first day of the St. Mary’s Division II College Classic, according to a TWU press release. The Pioneers cruised to an 8-0 win in six innings against UT-Permian Basin before losing to host St. Mary’s 8-1. In the opening game against UTPB, TWU jumped to a 5-0 lead in the top of the first and never looked back. The Pioneers added an additional run in the second, third and fifth innings, giving them an 8-0 victory. Head coach Richie Bruister said in the press release: “Everything clicked for us in this game. Brandie [Lander] was outstanding in the circle in her debut and showed that she can be one of our top pitchers this season. Bailey [Vrazel] and
Christina [Eberhard] set the tone on the top of the order and Jordan [Readicker] had the big hit in the first inning.” In the second game, St. Mary’s jumped out to a 5-0 lead in the first on the strength of four unearned runs. The Rattlers continued to pile it on, while TWU earned one run over the course of the game. Bruister stated in the press release: “We hit the ball hard but right at their fielders. We faced a good pitcher from St. Mary’s, and she did not allow any walks. Katie and Larisa [Garcia] both pitched well in the second game. Lizzy had a good day overall, as she went 4-for-6 in the two games.” Pioneers earned a split on the second day of play at DII College Classic, according to the press release, picking up a win against East Central and then a loss to Southeastern Oklahoma State. TWU won 4-3 against the Lady Tigers and lost in a 5-1 decision to the Savage Storm. On Sunday, the final day of the Classic, the Pioneers lost to Lubbock Christian 10-0 in five innings. Bruister explained: “In the three losses this weekend, we allowed one big inning in each game and we weren’t mentally tough. But, we also had some
Photography by Jeni Berry
Coach Richie Bruister and the TWU softball team display their team spirit before a game last season. good things in the five games we played and everyone got the opportunity to play.” The Pioneers left San Antonio with a 2-3 record.
Pioneer gymnastics team posts season-high score
Amanda Clark Sports Editor
The Pioneers, led by performances from seniors Bethany Larimer and Kristin Edwards, triumphed in a meet against Lindenwood Saturday night in Kitty Magee Arena with 193.150-191.250.
Head coach Lisa Bowerman stated in a press release: “We made some changes on vault and I am proud of the outcome. Kayla [Jones] upgraded her vault for the first time this year and had a good score.” Bowerman explained that the Pioneers are showing improvement on uneven bars,
but need to continue to work towards making progress, according to the press release. She explained that while routines on beam may not have been optimum, she was happy with the team’s performances. Bowerman reflected on the floor performance, explaining that the team had some great routines, but that individually, junior Margaret Mayfield stood out with her marked improvement. The Pioneers will return to action this Friday in the IGI Chicago Style Invitational. TWU will face Arizona, Illinois State and Pittsburgh at 7 p.m. in Chicago, Ill.
The TWU softball team will make its 2013 home debut this weekend in a three-game series Friday and Saturday against Newman. The teams will play in
9.800 9.725 9.700 9.850 9.750 9.650 9.825 9.750 9.725 9.875 9.800 9.675
Story Idea? The Lasso wants to hear from you twu_lasso@yahoo.com Photography by Amanda Amaral
Junior Margaret Mayfield performs her beam routine.
TWU hoops fall to A&M-Commerce
Amanda Clark Sports Editor
Last Wednesday, the Pioneer basketball team came up short in a hard-fought game against the visiting Texas A&MCommerce Lions 54-50 in Kitty Magee Arena. According to a press release, Texas A&M-Commerce scored the game’s first nine points and led the majority of the first half. TWU opened the second half on a 13-5 run to take a 4235 lead, according to the press release. The Pioneers were up by eight points with 10:54 left in the game before A&MCommerce scored seven points straight to make the score 46-
45. TWU maintained the lead until the Lions hit the go-ahead jumper. The Lions finally nailed a deep three within the last seconds of the game to put the game out of reach for the Pioneers. Head coach Beth Jillson stated: “We built a nice lead in the second half and we let them back in the game. We struggled to get into our offense and we missed some key free throws in the second half.” TWU is now 6-12 on the season and 4-8 in the Lone Star Conference. The Pioneers will compete tonight on the road against Incarnate Word at 5:30.
Pioneer Box Scores Opponent
Score Basketball
Hardin-‐Simmons (Exh) Ouachita Baptist Texas A&M-‐International Central Oklahoma Colorado Christian Northwest Missouri State Texas A&M-‐Commerce Tarleton State St. Mary's Texas A&M-‐Kingsville Incarnate Word West Texas A&M Eastern New Mexico Abilene Christian Angelo State Midwestern State Cameron Tarleton State Texas A&M-‐Commerce
W W W L L L L L L W L L W L W L W L L
62-‐44 60-‐59 73-‐56 35-‐59 71-‐78 40-‐63 52-‐63 60-‐72 51-‐62 70-‐66 52-‐59 51-‐65 46-‐40 50-‐75 61-‐39 53-‐67 52-‐50 69-‐71 50-‐54
Photography by Amanda Amaral
Sports Column: Opinion
vs. Lindenwood Bethany Larimer Kayla Jones Kristin Edwards Uneven Bars Courtney Cochefski Bethany Larimer Amy Winczura Balance Beam Spencer Jones Margaret Mayfield Ciara Maradiaga Floor Exercise Kristin Edwards Spencer Jones Margaret Mayfield
For more information on the TWU softball team and to view a complete schedule, readers can visit TWUAthletics.com.
The Pioneers cheer on one another during each individual routine.
Gymnastics Meet Results Vault
a doubleheader on Friday at 2 and 4 p.m. and a single game on Saturday at 11 a.m. at Pioneer Field.
Alex Ancira Jr. Copy Editor
Alex’s Angle Pioneers deserve more spectators
Last Wednesday night, I headed off to Kitty Magee Arena hoping to catch some hoops. The Pioneers faced the Texas A&MCommerce Lions, and I had not been to as many games this season as I had hoped. I was reminded at the front desk that attendance was free for any TWU student, a nice benefit of attending a Pioneer home game. However, as I took my seat in the stands and the game drew closer to tip off, I noticed that there weren’t all too many people in the stands — it turned out from the box score, 400 people altogether to be exact. Bearing in mind that the university does not get much buzz from new students for having especially revered athletics, this type of attendance is still miniscule within itself. Taken from TWU’s website, the
university currently has 14,221 students enrolled across three campuses. Now, remember that at the last basketball game, only 400 students attended. 400 out of 14,221, in case anyone is wondering, is nearly three percent of TWU’s population. Kitty Magee Arena, the home court for the Pioneers, houses 1,800 alone, and can be increased to hold a crowd of 2,700 attendees. For comparison, 2,700 attendees is about 20 percent of the students from TWU . The home side of the stands rarely even gets filled, notwithstanding Pack the House or Pack the House II. Both of those events brought in more than 1,000 students easily, with Pack the House having a TWU Athletics-record 1,373 in attendance. While the Pioneers basketball team has been on a bit of a skid at times this season, the team definitely should garner more attention around campus. Gaining spectators should not require the promise of scholarships and door prizes. Each home game is free, and I can promise that if students wanted, they could pack the house every night the team’s in town. No matter the luck of the team or how inconsistent it has been all season, this group of women needs the support of a solid fan base. Without said support, it can be rough to
perform in a tightly-contested contest. Sadly, no one sport at TWU is supported exceptionally well. The attendance for Soccer (361 per contest) and Volleyball games (approximately 399 per game) are far below what each team deserves. Students should attend due in part to school pride and due to the quality of the teams as well. All things considered, the teams have played well enough to deserve more than the roughly 400 students they pull in currently. The problem then lies with the students’ motivation and drive to go to games. I’m not advocating for all of TWU’s students to run in droves towards Kitty Magee or Pioneer Field every night of the week, but surely any given home game can attract a decent 800 students. Hopefully, moving forward Pioneer games can garner a bigger crowd, but it would appear that no matter how successful the team is, the attendance remains static. Sports attendance and participation remain great ways for students to get involved on campus, and the sad fact is that students are not utilizing this opportunity enough at TWU. Either way, you can catch me at a Pioneer sporting event if I have the time. I implore any student to go as often as she or he can as well.
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Wednesday, February 6, 2013
Opinions
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Forget the Super Bowl, cutest champions are in Animal Planet’s Puppy Bowl Marygail Isobel Lakner Opinions Editor
Super Bowl Sunday is an American staple. I’ve got to be honest — I don’t really care much about football. I cringe when I see people getting hurt, so I try to avoid seeing someone get hit by a freight train, and football is not far from it.
Photo Illustration by Maura Teague
Now, I do not care if you love football. I do not care if you despise football. I do not care whether you care. What I do care about, though, is very similar to the big game, with just as many cries aloud, but for completely different reasons. See, the “Ahs” that come from a bad play in football are totally
different than the “Aws” that come from watching a mass of puppies romping around in a tiny football stadium. That’s right — I watch the Puppy Bowl. The Puppy Bowl is an adorable parody of the Super Bowl on Animal Planet. This year marked the ninth time the Puppy Bowl has taken place. I’ll tell you how it works. A collection of puppies from different breeds are funneled into a miniature stadium with various balls, chewies and squeak toys. Then the puppies do what most expect from puppies — wrestle, make sweet squeaking noises and darling, high-pitched growls and even nap. A referee is on the scene to make calls on things such as “too cute,” “excessive roughness,” and “excessive tail-biting.” He even took care of any less-than-pleasant
accidents that happened with paper towels and a pooper-scooper. Some of the canine players were profiled before the game for patrons. Aurora was the Siberian husky, Biscuit a mix breed, Elias a pit bull puppy, Marta a schnauzer/beagle mix, Sally a dachshund/basset hound mix, and Chestnut, last year’s Puppy Bowl Most Valuable Pup, a golden retriever. A hedgehog with a tutu was the cheerleader and Puppy Bowl fans with painted faces chanted “Puppy,” and chest, bumped whenever a puppy scored a touchdown (basically whenever a dog brought whatever toy they had to the end of the field.) Don’t fret, cat fanatics. The halftime was full of kittens from a shelter, which were given layered jumping platforms, feathered toys and jingle balls. With commercials that highlighted sweet dogs, hosts
of various Animal Planet shows showing their love for the puppybreathed cuteness and a replay camera called the “Cute Cam,” only someone heartless would hate this momentous game. I think my new dream job has become Puppy Bowl referee. Now admit it, as fun as playing and watching sports can be, there is no way grown men tackling each other over a ball can beat watching puppies wrestle each other for a toy ball. In case you were wondering, the winner of the M.V.P. at the end of the game was none other than tiny fluff ball Marta. Interested readers can watch the two halves of the Puppy Bowl at http:// animal.discovery.com/tv-shows/puppybowl. More information can be found at the same site, including videos from the inaugural Puppy Bowl.
Deadlines ignored, excuses accepted, hard workers ignored Story Idea?
standards. However, there are certain professors who have I consider myself a very particular habits that diligent and attentive do not make any worker. I come to class sense to me. on time, I listen closely One of my professors sent to my professors, I out an email explaining that ask questions, and since two-thirds of the class did not turn in the assignment, I actually read the he would extend the due syllabus before the date in order to give those students a second chance to get class begins. their assignments in without So when I walk into receiving a zero. Not only was a classroom of a I infuriated that I completely higher educational wasted my time getting the assignment in on the due date, I institution, I come in was flabbergasted that a college with expectably higher professor would condone this Megan Pillow Reporter
type of behavior. I furiously posted on Facebook about this, and got some replies from my high school teachers saying, “Doesn’t make sense to me either. I would have been more than happy to hand out big happy zeroes,” and “Welcome to the frustrating complacency of American education.” Students are given a syllabus before a course begins that lists assignment due dates so students have ample time to prepare themselves accordingly and get their assignments completed. Professors do this for a reason, because some of us have five other classes, two jobs and an executive board position to maintain, and it is essential to be aware of what is to come
Marygail’s Marriage Production:
With proper planning, saving for wedding not as daunting
Third in a multi-part series
Marygail Isobel Lakner Opinions Editor
Saving for a wedding may at first seem nigh impossible, especially considering the average cost of a wedding. According to www. costofwedding.com, the average wedding in Denton County costs $26,913, with most people in or traveling to Denton County spending between $20,185-$33,641. First, take a moment to breathe. A wedding can cost as much or as little as one chooses. It all depends on the sacrifices made, either from the ceremony, reception, monthly budget, or any combination of the three. Cut back anywhere you can. Eat out only once a week. Have dates in. Try to conserve on your energy bills. See if your internet and cable provider can work out a cheaper package for you. You can also cut back altogether and stick simply with the Internet and programs such as Hulu and Netflix for entertainment. Take a good, long look at your budget. If family members plan on contributing, they should also inspect their expenses so
they can give a specific dollar amount of what they will be contributing and how often. Will they buy the wedding cake? Can you expect a large, lump sum? Do they intend to give you smaller payments every month? Regardless of the stress involved, be exhaustive in this research. Starting your new life together in massive debt due to the cost of your wedding is a nightmare that no one should live through, ever. Jon and I first set out to dedicate every cent of spare change toward our wedding fund. We have a jar that we deposit all of our coins into at the end of the day. When it fills completely, we take it to a Coinstar and cash it. Rinse and repeat. Another great idea is to get a savings account someplace where you can get a decent enough interest rate. Credit unions, such as Denton Area Teachers Credit Union, are great options because credit unions are not like typical businesses, as the owners are members of the union as well. Wherever you decide to store your wedding fund money, be sure you have visited several banks and shopped around for the best deal. With every incoming check, contribute some money toward the wedding fund, even if you can only manage $5. I know things get tough sometimes, but if you can spare it, that money will go a long way. Depending on how
comfortable you feel, give deposit information to parents or anyone else who is willing to contribute. Often there are ways that others can deposit into an account but not withdraw anything. This method can make it easy for long-distance relatives to contribute to your wedding as well. Another tip: Take on extra hours at work or do odd jobs for pay. For example, I’m sewing cushions for a friend’s dining room chairs. Hold a garage sale and get rid of all your wonderful junk that other people will want for unknown reasons. If you have family or friends willing to contribute some stuff to the garage sale, gather it up and give them a hearty “thank you.” If you, your family or friends are very crafty, consider holding a Do-It-Yourself wedding. Plenty of inspirational images and stepby-step instructions exist on websites such as Pinterest. There are a million ways to save money for a wedding, and nearly every available book or magazine talks about them. Do some investigation and find the best way for you, but remember to start pinching your pennies early. Trust me, you will be glad you did. For more information, readers can visit websites such as http:// browse.realsimple.com/weddings/ budget/index.html, or http:// wedding.theknot.com/weddingplanning/wedding-budget.aspx and http://www.bhg.com/wedding/ planning/wedding-budget-smartways-to-save/.
in order to remain organized and stress-free. The professor said that the students did not “understand” the assignment, and therefore were “unable to complete it.” If a student does not understand an assignment, they should immediately contact the professor, not neglect the problem altogether. So now that the due dates are extended, I have to wait until everyone finishes their assignments before proceeding to the next section, and for them to potentially get the same grade as I do. At least if I had
extra credit of some sort rather than a pat on the back and a “good job,” maybe I would not be so discontent. What if this type of behavior were to spread to the workforce? What if a doctor came up to his or her patient and said: “Oh, that prescription I was supposed to write? Yeah, about that ...” and went on to mumble under their breath about how they “did not have time” or “forgot.” I do not know about you, but I would not go to that doctor again, nor any other individual who cannot accomplish his or her work in a timely manner.
Time is money. I would not want to work for a company or with people who do not take deadlines seriously, or with people who do not see time as a valuable and extremely limited asset. College is meant not only to teach young adults out of a textbook, but also how to understand the virtues of deadlines, hard work and looking toward long– term results. I just hope that professors learn to take this into account instead of leaving hard workers outside in the cold.
EDITORIAL CARTOONS Comic by Maura Teague
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Wednesday, February 6, 2013
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Arts & Entertainment
| The Lasso
‘True’ fiction has ‘reunion’ with some ‘oddfellows’
Image courtesy of ATO Records
Image courtesy of Epitaph Records
Image courtesy of Ipecac Records
Stanton Brasher A&E Editor
Tomahawk “Oddfellows”
Fiction Family “Fiction Family Reunion”
Bad Religion“True North”
The title track on Tomahawk’s latest album, “Oddfellows,” sounds almost like an Alice in Chains song on even more heroin. I hate Alice in Chains because they sound lifeless (no pun intended related to their late lead singer). The heavy guitar riffs mixed with over drawn and grinding vocals felt old in the 1990s. Now it seems completely archaic. Luckily, the album picks up after the first song and becomes a lot more “odd.” Singer Mike Patton is legendary in the metal world for fronting as many bands as he has albums — and he has made a ton of albums. Most notably, he is known for Faith No More, Mr. Bungle and feuding with The Red Hot Chili Peppers. While the energy of the album increases, the song writing feels a little contrived. I love weird. My personal music library has musical contributions from the likes of Ween, Danielson Famile, Hella, and Frank Zappa, but much of this album feels weird-forthe-sake-of-being-weird. I do not picture Zappa sitting back and thinking about how he could weird-out his audience. I think his experimentation was in his personality and worldview. For Patton and company, the authenticity is lacking. This is evident in the title of the album. Oh, you guys are odd fellows? Thanks for telling me in such an obvious fashion. In the early 90s, I loved listening to Faith No More. The way they fused funk and metal with really eccentric lyrics made them a stand-out group in the flannel era. Patton even made a cameo in “Bill and Ted’s Bogus Journey.” My love for Faith No More makes me want to like one of Patton’s many other projects, but most of his music really fails to grasp my attention for long. There are, however, some highlights on the album. The song “South Paw” is both musically and vocally dynamic. The hook in the song is pretty catchy too, which certainly is odd for an album that tries so hard to refrain from being too poppy.
Bad Religion has been a staple of punk rock for 30 years. Beyond its own music, guitarist Brett Gurewitz owns Epitaph Records which has been a home to bands such as Rancid, The Offspring and Pennywise. In the 90s, Bad Religion found success in radio singles “21st Century (Digital Boy)” and “A Walk,” but since then has stayed out of the mainstream. “True North” is the first album Bad Religion has released since 2010’s “The Dissent of Man.” In the band’s long career, it has not strayed much from a triedand-true formula. Heavy power chords, blistering guitar solos, a raspy voice that spends time discussing politics, society and an occasional lament over lost love are to be expected when listening to a new Bad Religion album. “True North” is no different. I loved this band when I was younger and even got to see them perform at the 2002 Warped Tour. To see them still railing against the political atmosphere is strangely comforting. “Here’s the church. Here’s the steeple. Open up the door. Corporations are people,” belts singer Greg Graffin on “Robin Hood in Reverse,” a song that could be a battle cry to the Occupy generation. If that song does not raise fists to epic pumping proportions, the album’s first single, “F*** You,” will. This song is not Cee Lo’s pop melody of 2011. Instead of pining over unrequited love, Bad Religion encourages listeners to say the title to any opposition. There are a few songs that feel out of place on the album, but like most Bad Religion records, it’s chock-full of great songs as well. Considering there are 16 tracks to choose from, it’s okay to write off one or two. For die hard punk fans or for those looking to expand their musical landscape, Bad Religion’s “True North” is a good place to start, but make sure you check out the band’s older work too.
Jon Foreman has been making poppy arena rock for years. His aspirations were gigantic, even when his band, Switchfoot, was an indie act. Foreman’s wordplay and folksy style of story-telling always seemed to transcend the hear-it-today, forget-it-tomorrow audience for which Switchfoot normally played. His other group, Fiction Family’s newest album, “Fiction Family Reunion” is a major improvement over their first album. This is no surprise because the other founding Fiction Family member is none other than Sean Watkins from Nicklecreek. For those unfamiliar with bluegrass, Nicklecreek was one of the most innovative groups to spawn from that genre in the past 20 years. A master of stringed instruments from guitar to banjo to mandolin, Watkins shares the song writing load and has an excellent voice to boot. This album is one that can play from start to finish with no track skips; there are also more than a few highlights. “God Badge” is a loving criticism of modern Christianity. The song’s meaning is even more powerful coming from two poets who have never been afraid to address their Christian beliefs in their music. “Put your God badge down and love someone,” Foreman sings. “The world never was and never will be under your control.” Even with beautiful, melodic poetry, Fiction Family also knows how to have fun with the clever song, “Just Rob me,” about a guy who falls in love with a thief and entices her to rob him so he can catch her attention. It is somewhat difficult to define the band’s genre. They move smoothly between folk music, alternative and pop rock throwbacks to the 60s. One thing neither artist knows how to do is hold back, but with such pleasing melodies and insightful lyrics, why would anyone want them to?
Apply Now! TWU Leadership Institute
Now accepting applications for 2013 All applications must be submitted or postmarked by February 27, 2013 Image courtesy of TWU Drama
TWU’s Drama Department presents “WELL,” directed by Dr. Patrick Bynane on Feb. 20-24. Reserve tickets today.
Eligibility •Must have 45 hours completed •Must obtain a 3.25 GPA or higher
Terminator 2 at Rubber Gloves. Doors open at 9 p.m.
You and me at Hailey’s Club. Doors open at 9p.m.
Cherie Amie Lingerie Show. Hailey’s Club Doors open at 9 p.m.
Black Joe Lewis at Rubber Gloves. Doors open at 9 p.m.
The Ruby Jane Show at Dan’s Silverleaf. Doors open at 8 p.m.
Air Review CD release at Dan’s Silverleaf. Doors open at 8p.m.
The Motherships at Dan’s Silverleaf. Doors open open at 8 p.m.
Shaolin Death Squad at Abbey Underground. Doors open at 9 p.m.
Lumberjack Fest with Satans of Soft Rock at Dan’s Silverleaf. Doors open at 9 p.m.
•Must submit a resume, one letter of recommendation and a personal statement •Must be available for interview Applications to be downloaded from our website www.twu.edu/li For more information call 940 898 3209
Opportunities include: •Textbook scholarship •Leadership development conferences •Annual leadership retreats •Certificate in Leadership
Applications can be emailed to: twuleadership.recruitment@gmail.com Mail to: P.O. Box 425706 Denton, TX 76204