Festival of Lights
pg. 3
Dance UpClose
pg.4
He said, she said
pg.7
DENTON
SUNNY High 66° Low 43° Weather pg 2
Wednesday │November 28, 2012 │ Vol. 99, No. 14
Texas Woman’s University | Student run since 1914
A fond farewell: President and Chancellor Dr. Ann Stuart to retire from TWU Aaron Claycomb and Shannon Quick Editor-in-Chief and News Editor
Chancellor and President Dr. Ann Stuart announced at the Nov. 16 Board of Regents meeting her decision to retire from the university after 13 years of service. Stuart has agreed per the board’s request to continue to lead the university until a successor is named. Board of Regents Chair Mike McCullough announced Stuart’s decision to retire from the university at the BOR meeting. Following the meeting, a press release was sent to students, faculty, staff, and alumni that informed others of the change as well. McCullough stated that TWU is “privileged to have had Dr. Ann Stuart as its chancellor and president for more than 12 years.” Her exceptional leadership has helped the university become stronger and smarter, he added, and now the university is well–equipped to handle the challenges of both today and tomorrow. In an interview with Stuart, she stated that her most memorable event at TWU was when she first arrived at the university. Other times Stuart recollected were when they opened the Dallas and Houston facilities, in addition to the new
Ann Stuart Science Complex on the Denton campus. “Women are under–served in the undergraduate world in science and math,” Stuart explained. In Stuart’s time at TWU, she has pioneered the university’s focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. She believes that opportunities in Computer Sciences and fields of sciences are open for women, despite women currently being underrepresented. She hopes that these new facilities will help the university put even more of an emphasis on recruiting young women to TWU for the further advancement of these STEM fields. Stuart was present at the BOR meetings since her appointment as Chancellor at the university in 1999. Each time, a budget was discussed in terms of fiscal responsibility. The state and the legislature are consistently concerned with the cost for higher education, she added in her interview. According to the statement by McCullough at the BOR meeting, “enrollment has grown 85 percent,” and 20,000 graduates have come out of the university in fields of health care, education, business and
other critical fields. Among the list of accomplishments made under Stuart’s term, she has helped with the ground work and planning for the new facilities in Denton, Dallas and Houston. “Fundraising has topped $220 million” also under Stuarts leadership, according to the statement. “When I came to TWU, I understood that I was to be a steward of TWU’s past with the responsibility for positioning the university for a strong future,” Stuart said in the press release. Through the span of her professional career, Stuart recalled her time at TWU as the highlight of her career, she admitted. “I am particularly proud of what our students have accomplished and what they have become,” she added. BOR Vice Chair Sue Bancroft will head the search for a new chancellor and president. “It is imperative that we identify a leader who will continue the path of excellence created by Chancellor Stuart and guide TWU’s forward progress,” Bancroft stated. A new chancellor and president should be in place by 2014 according to McCullough’s statement
Photo provided by TWU Marketing
President and Chancellor Dr. Ann Stuart has served TWU for 13 years.
TWU Festival of Lights brightens campus Amanda Clark Reporter
Last night, The Festival of Lights took place at TWU where students were brought together for the lighting of the campus and the sharing of holiday spirit in the 52–degree weather. The evening began in front of Old Main with words from speaker of the TWU Faculty Senate Jeffery Robb and Associate Professor of Communication Sciences and Disorders Chad Smith, who was in charge of planning and coordinating the event. The event was facilitated by TWU Faculty Senate, the Chancellor’s Office, the Provost’s Office, the Office of Student Life, Staff Council, Student Government Association, the Association of Service and Support Employees of TWU, and the Student Alumni Relations Council. Parliamentarian of the Faculty Senate Dr. Bettye Myers of the Kinesiology Department and Dr. Phyllis Bridges of English, Speech, and Foreign Languages also spoke in front of Old Main and shared historical happenings of TWU from their years of teaching and even attending school at TWU. Bridges stated, “We think of this
Shannon Quick News Editor
Photography by Jeni Berry
Students brave the cold weather to enjoy the annual holiday lighting of the TWU campus.
Continued pg. 3
On Friday, Nov. 16 the TWU Board of Regents met at the Houston campus to discuss university business. Board Chair Mike McCullough prefaced the meeting by announcing the retirement of President and Chancellor Dr. Ann Stuart; after the brief announcement, applause and thanks, the regularly scheduled meeting began. Many of the projected building and expansion projects were tabled for discussion at a later date, including the new Student Union, additional parking and additional housing. Both the Finance & Audit Committee and the Institutional Development Committee
Continued pg. 5
Follow The Lasso
INSIDE THIS ISSUE News
Golden Key Induction............3
Features
Graduation Process...............4
Special Section
twulasso.com
Board of Regents convenes to discuss university business
Board of Regents..................5
Sports
LSC Championship................6
Opinions
Prostitution............................7
Arts & Entertainment
December Movies.................8
Questions or comments about The Lasso? twu_lasso@yahoo.com
2
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Lasso staff A student-run publication since 1914
Editor-in-Chief Aaron Claycomb • aclaycomb@twu.edu Managing Editor Dennis Barbee • debarbee74@gmail.com
Local Weather Denton Sunny
Sr. Copy Editor Brianna Casey • bcasey1@twu.edu
Arts and Entertainment Editor Stanton Brasher • omegakatproductions@gmail.com Opinions Editor Marygail Isobel Lakner • mlakner@twu.edu Sports Editor Shelby Baker •sbaker3@twu.edu
High 68˚ Low 53˚ Partly Cloudy
Dallas Sunny
Thursday High 69˚ Low 55˚ Partly Cloudy
Wednesday
High 66˚
Low 43˚
Saturday High 77˚ Low 55˚ Mostly Cloudy
Houston Partly Cloudy
Thursday High 73˚ Low 57˚ Partly Cloudy
Friday
High 71˚ Low 55˚ Partly Cloudy
New Media Editor Erin Marissa Russell • erussell2@twu.edu
Features Editor Laura Hilton • remember2smile247@ymail.com
Thursday
Friday
Jr. Copy Editor Alexander Ancira • aancira@twu.edu
News Editor Shannon Quick • squick1@twu.edu
The Lasso
twulasso.com
Weekly Roundup
Friday
High 71˚ Low 57˚ Partly Cloudy Wednesday
High 67˚
Low 43˚
High 76˚ Low 58˚ Partly Cloudy
Saturday
Wednesday
High 76˚ Low 55˚ Mostly Cloudy
High 69˚
Saturday High 79˚ Low 59˚ Mostly Cloudy
Low 47˚
Photo of the week
Photo Editor Jeni Berry • jnberry@gmail.com Senior Reporter Ginger Hughes • gingerreneehuges@gmail.com Stephanie Terrell • sterrell92@hotmail.com Reporters Megan Pillow • mpillow@twu.edu Amanda Clark • clarkamandarose@gmail.com Kyla Rae • krae@twu.edu Allie Beaurline • abeaurline@twu.edu Marlou Macaraeg • mmacaraeg@twu.edu Christa Teller • cteller@twu.edu Carlis Lollie • clollie@twu.edu Photographer Amanda Amaral • ama.e.amaral@gmail.com Designer Maura Teague • maurateague@gmail.com Business Manager Alisha Sarfani • asarfani@twu.edu Asst. Business Manager Bethany Wineinger • bwineinger@twu.edu Business Assistant Germaine Balanon • germaine92@yahoo.com Advisor Bo Carter • scarter5@twu.edu 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.
Lasso history >>>
1937 1937 Lasso news— 75 years ago
TWU’s, then known as the Texas State College for Women, seniors plan a breakfast meeting. Sophomores plan Harvest Moon activities. An AllCollege Dance is held in the gym. A new campus Post Office rule affecting the remainder of the year states that any mail delivered without a post office box number will go into general delivery and students will have to come to the claim window to
1962 1962 Lasso news— 50 years ago
Undersecretary of State, George W. Ball announces that Americanowned ships will be banned from Cuban trade
activity. TWU continues to defend its surrounding land purchases and building expansions to the Denton community, explaining there are no tax increases required.
1987
1987 Lasso news— 25 years ago
SGA President Sharee Rabe decides to take graduate courses to add to her education. The TWU tennis team prepares for the next season. TWU President Dr. Shirley Chater enjoys walking around the campus regularly for exercise.
1968 1964 world news— 44 years ago
The Netherlands receives color television
Photography by Shannon Quick
Chancellor Stuart waits at Houston Hobby Airport to return to Denton after the latest Board of Regents meeting.
for the first time. Firstclass postage rises from five cents to six cents. One of the most publicized and controversial battles in the Vietnam War, The Battle of Khe Sanh begins. Martin Luther King Jr. announces his plans for the Poor People’s Campaign on March 4. On April 4, MLK is assassinated in Memphis, Tenn. In Germany, 94.5 percent of voters approve the new socialist constitution. On April 11, President Johnson signs the Civil Rights Act. On June 5, Robert F. Kennedy is shot and dies the following day. Republican Richard Nixon wins presidency over democrat Hubert Humphrey.
TWU Police Report
For further historic Lasso articles please read pg. 7 “From the TWU archives”
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.
Mail Letters from Readers The Lasso Stoddard Hall Rm 311 Email twu_lasso@yahoo.com Website twulasso.com
Noise Complaint
Welfare Concern
A noise complaint report was
A report of a welfare concern
filed at Guinn Hall, Tuesday,
was made at Jones Hall,
Nov. 13.
Monday, Nov. 19.
Medical Emergency
Assault/Dating Violence
A report of a medical
A report of assault/dating
emergency was made at
violence was made at TWU
Lowry Woods, Tuesday, Nov.
DPS, Sunday, Nov. 18. No
13.
arrest was made.
Assault Report
Suspicious Person
A report of an assault was
A report of a suspicious
made at 301 Administration
person was made at 5500
Dr., Wednesday, Nov. 14. No
Southwestern Medical Ave.
arrest was made.
(Dallas), Monday, Nov. 19.
Theft
Harassment
A report of theft was made
A report of harassment was
at Guinn Hall, Thursday, Nov.
made at Stark Hall, Tuesday,
15.
Nov. 20. No arrest was made.
Criminal Trespass
Disturbance
A report of criminal trespass
A report of a disturbance
was made at 1719 Bell St.,
was made at Lowry Woods,
Sunday, Nov. 18. An arrest
Friday, Nov. 23. An arrest was
was made.
made for criminal mischief.
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
The Lasso
twulasso.com
News
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
3
TWU Golden Key Honor Society: Lighting the way for service Amanda Clark Reporter
On Nov. 10, the TWU chapter of the Golden Key International Honor Society hosted its annual induction, but with added honorary inductees Chancellor Ann Stuart and Mayor of Denton Mark Borroughs. Golden Key is the largest international honor society on any campus, inducting the top 15 percent of qualifiers from an institution. The three pillars of Golden Key are academia, leadership and service. According to Christine Hinson, the President of TWU’s chapter, service has been the most important aspect to her, and she enjoyed how Stuart advocated service as the induction’s keynote speaker. The induction occurs every year and its purpose is
CONT. from pg. 1 Festival of Lights
season as a season of peace and it overjoys me to see you all standing here where they [previous students of TWU] once stood.” She closed her speech by saying that everyone was welcome here and should feel welcome as well. After the different introductions and stories, the Pioneer Voices Choir sang “Caroling, Caroling” and promised more caroling
to welcome new members, let them know what’s expected and to encourage them. Hinson said that this past induction was probably the largest to date, which increases the size and effectiveness of the campus’ chapter. As the keynote speaker for the event, Stuart cast a vision for the community of TWU students involved with the Golden Key Honor Society. She spoke about how people can all give just a little and explained how TWU students can make millions of impacts. Advisor of the Golden Key chapter at TWU Rhonda Gorman said: “I think the Chancellor has done a great job in leading our university. She holds high academic and personal standards for achievement. Her speech was an inspiration to those who attended.”
The inspiration from the induction continued with the presence of Mayor Borroughs, who, according to Hinson, believes that the service this chapter has to offer should be based in the community of Denton as a whole. Since Denton is comprised of college students from both TWU and The University of North Texas, the service presented by these students can accomplish many goals. Both of the honorary inductees brought a special touch to the induction and Hinson admitted that she believes it to be the best induction to date. Gorman expressed, “I enjoyed their presence not just in the physical sense but also in the spirit of authority they bring to life. I think having those with high standards and accomplishments should be honored for their
achievement; and I know they wish to celebrate achievement, and to inspire those to lofty goals as they travel through life.” It was Gorman’s first induction as a facilitator, as she is a new advisor, and she said that her favorite part was having the chancellor and the mayor in attendance and as speakers. Gorman said, “I think it was a great encouragement to the new members.” At the various inductions there are opportunities for, the new inductees to sign up for service opportunities such as Denton Street Cleaners. They also took donations for the John Peter Smith Health Clinic to help purchase medical equipment. Through service and donation opportunities, Hinson believes students have a tangible way to connect directly to the needs of the community. Gorman expressed her
love for the organization by explaining, “Being an advisor means a great deal to me. Not only is it service to my university, it is service to a group of students who want to become future leaders and who hold the same academic values that I hold. I can be support for the Denton Community and to affect change through being involved in Golden Key. Our motto is ‘Stand Out, Stand Up and Stand Together.’” At the induction, two scholarships were awarded for $500 each. The first, the undergraduate scholarship, was awarded to Marissa Grooms. The second, the graduate scholarship, was awarded to Noel Barnhill, who is also the vice president of the TWU chapter of Golden Key. Golden Key is intent on not only honoring students, but also giving back to the community.
The members of the chapter meet once a month and vote on the different service projects they would like to do together as a group. “We are the epitome of a diverse group who wants to be involved,” Hinson explained. When asked what her hope was for Golden Key’s TWU chapter, Hinson responded, “My passion since I’ve been president has been to incite passion in other people for service, Hinton noted. We’re trying to find an advisor for students in Dallas because I believe wherever students are is where they should be serving. I want to see Dallas students serving Dallas, and Houston students serving Houston. I want it to be a living, breathing, acting part that makes a difference.”
throughout the night. After their performance, the Holiday Sign Choir performed signing to “White Christmas.” The choir was comprised of TWU students from the Communication Sciences and Disorders Department. Many attending were dressed in festive hats and big red bows, and a wreath with trees decorated the outside of Old Main. Giant steel outlines of present boxes sit outside of Old Main and around 400 festive bags with LED candles lit the way down Red Bud Trail to
Hubbard Hall. About 100-200 students lined up to walk down the lit path with family and friends, as well as a handful of TWU faculty and staff. Freshman Samantha Thornton exclaimed, “I’m very excited and looking forward to the Christmas holiday and break. And the Festival of Lights encourages the holiday spirit.” The carolers sang the whole walk down Redbud Lane and continued to sing in front of Hubbard Hall until it was time for more words from Provost and Chancellor.
Provost Dr. Robert Neely began by thanking everyone involved. Neely noted, “Christmas is a time of immense symbolism. One of the most powerful symbols is lighting.” He encouraged students, faculty, staff, and others gathered around to think of two things: working with one another, and enlightenment concerning education, scholarship and knowledge. Chancellor Ann Stuart said: “This is what can happen when we work together. I can imagine what this will be years
from now when it grows and becomes a light of its own.” She laughed about how she had the power to say “light the trees” and when she did, everything lit up dramatically. There was an exclamation as this happened and everyone cheered as the trees now glowed brightly. You could overhear people saying, “It feels like the holidays now.” Cookies, apple cider and hot chocolate were served with students continuing to arrive at the event and share their holiday season. Dr. Chad Smith shared a few
words about the joy of hosting the event: “We wanted an event that would bring the whole TWU community together, no matter who you are or where you’re from. And this has accomplished that.” This is the second year TWU has hosted a Festival of Lights, and students can take part in the event simply by viewing the decorations around campus.
Dallas
New beats pump at Health Sciences — Dallas Center
Marlou Macaraeg Reporter
Cuban Salsa, Sabor Step and Meringue are not exotic foods, but they are a few of the names of some basic steps in the latest dance craze Zumba. It is an aerobic dance class performed with mostly Latin beats and has been gaining popularity in the U.S. over the last ten years. The TWU Dallas campus
started offering Zumba classes on Monday nights at 6 p.m. this fall semester. Doctor of Physical Therapy student Nicole Coester instructs the class. “I took a Zumba class and decided it was so much fun that I wanted to teach since I was going every week anyway,” Coester stated.. “It appeals to a wide group of people from 13 to 60 and people that are new to fitness find Zumba less intimidating than
other classes.” DPT student Hanna Koeijmans is one of those students new to Zumba. “This is my first time and I heard she (Coester) was awesome and it was a lot of fun!” exclaimed Koeijmans. Other students have been doing Zumba for a while. Nursing student Daisy Litaba said, “I’ve been doing Zumba for four years. I like the music and the different movements.”
The music and movements are the most easily distinguishable elements of Zumba, but there are additional benefits to Zumba. “Hopefully, I gain some coordination while I’m losing calories,” said DPT student Carissa Thurman. Coester can attest to some of the physical benefits of Zumba from personal experience. “I had one lady lose 50
pounds in six months doing Zumba,” Coester stated. Zumba can also be good for unwinding after a long day. “Zumba decreases stress and makes me exercise at least once a week,” Nursing student Napaket Tangchitnob explained. Students from any TWU campus can join this once a week de-stressor at the Dallas campus. “The good thing about Zumba is that it can be done at any level
and the Zumba community is more inclusive than other fitness classes,” Coester noted. College students often find exercise difficult to fit into their day and even less so because of its often tedious nature; however, Zumba offers students a more engaging way to relieve stress while also burning calories — a productive pair-up.
TWU BRIEFS
Construction on I-35 may bring potential delays to drivers Marygail Isobel Lakner Opinions Editor
Future TWU students may enjoy expanded lanes on Interstate 35, but present students may find their commute a little more congested than they are accustomed to, due
to construction that is slated to begin in 2013. The exact start date is variable, depending on the availability of funds, as the project is a $4.8 billion project, of which $1.1 million has been gathered thus far, that is projected to last until
Calendar of events Denton
HIV screenings in Student Health Services Dec. 4 - Winter Wonderland Craft Fair 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Student Union Dec. 7 – Senior Breakfast 8-9:30 a.m. Hubbard Hall Dec. 7 – Senior Lunch noon-1:30 p.m. Hubbard Hall Dec. 14 - all day Commencement Dec. 15 - all day Commencement
Nov. 28 – Holiday · ·Bingo noon-1 p.m. Student Union Purple Lounge Nov. 28 – Deadline to register for senior breakfast/ lunch Nov. 28 – Soups, stews and chili lunch buffet 11 a.m.-2 p.m. The Underground Nov. 29 – Student Union Board Meeting 12:20-1 p.m. Student Union 109 Dec. 4 - Free
· · ·
· · · ·
Dallas
KD
·
·
Dec. 3-5 De-
1421 OAKLAND STREET BEHIND TWU LIBRARY PARKING LOT 940-484-6528
Stress Express Dec. 4 – I.T.S. Lunch & Learn
·
Houston Nov. 28 – Hope ·Floats noon-1 p.m.
on the Patio and 4 p.m. on the 1st floor Nov. 29 - Holiday Wrap-up party & holiday photos noon-1:30 p.m. 8th floor (Legacy Room) •Dec. 3 - 12-1:30 p.m. - De-Stress Day and SGA December Birthday Celebrations 2nd and 8th floors
·
2017. According to Texas Department of Transportation officials, upon the completion of the construction, the entirety of I-35 will have been rebuilt from Denton to Interstate 635 in order to keep traffic moving at 50 miles per hour. The amount of traffic I-35 undergoes is one of the reasons officials are working toward this reconstruction. Being one of the main routes for traffic, the path
it covers over Lake Lewisville leaves very few options for those that commute over the bridge. Approximately 128,000 vehicles travel over Lake Lewisville daily, and 200,000 vehicles travel near I-635 daily as well. This spells long-term benefits for commuting TWU and University of North Texas students. Students planning to commute in 2013 and onward may run into traffic congestion due to the construction, though.
Officials of Lake Cities, as well as community residents, were welcomed to Oakmont Country Club to view a presentation that gave detailed information about this project, hosted by the Lake Cities Chamber of Commerce. Dec. 13 is the anticipated date to announce the developers to work on this projected construction.
DCTA adds evening train in January Marygail Isobel Lakner Opinions Editor
Officials at Denton County Transportation Authority are planning to add an evening train to help serve students with evening classes both at TWU and the University of North Texas in January 2013. Additional bus routes will also be included, one bus for each university.
SELL
TWU
(new and used)
TEXTBOOKS with lowest price GUARANTEED
The train will leave Denton at 9:20 p.m. in order to help students that attend classes that end by 9 p.m. According to Vice President of Communications and Planning Dee Legget, not all students will be accommodated with these changes but it is a good start. The change, proposed by
NOW RENTING!
staff members, was approved by board members during one of their monthly meetings. The intended date for these changes to begin is Jan. 14, including extensions to routes one and two, giving more transportion to people in the Unicorn Lake area and around Sally Beauty and the Med Park station.
2 Female Roommates Wanted
Availability starting Jan. 1st
Rent All Included
Winter Wonderland craft fair set Laura Hilton Features Editor
Students looking for unique and handcrafted holiday gifts can come to the 14th annual Winter Wonderland Holiday Arts & Crafts Bazaar Dec. 4 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on the second floor of the Student Union. Director of the Student Union Kyle Voyles said in an email: “Over 30 vendors will be on hand to sell handcrafted items, jewelry, candles, clothing, ornament, food, and great holiday gifts.” “The majority of vendors are from outside TWU,” Graduate Assistant Imari RobertsonPowell stated via email. “There are a few faculty members, alumni and I believe at least one current student.”
Want to see your Campus Club in The Lasso? Contact Us:
15 minutes from TWU
twu_lasso@yahoo.com
AME RI CA N ASS OCIATI ON OF UNIVERSITY WO MEN AAUW DENT ON All Undergraduate Students enrolled at TWU qualify for a free e-student membership http://www.aauw.org/about/join Click on free e -student affiation
O r g a n i z a t i o n
4
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
The Lasso
Features
Taking on Visible or invisible: students overcome stigma graduation one step at a time
Aaron Claycomb Editor-in-Chief
Megan Pillow Reporter
A student walks into class at 9 a.m. and sits down at her seat, located in the back of the classroom. She cannot hear the professor giving the lecture that morning because she has a hearing loss. In today’s society, most onlookers would assume that she is “normal,” because people cannot see her invisible disability, Director of Disability Support Services JoAnn Nunnelly explained. DSS is designed to provide equal access to education for students with disabilities, Nunnelly stated. “Its focus is on what the person’s functional limitations are, what barriers they encounter, and therefore what the bridge is that they might need to be able to participate in higher education,” she said. DSS works with students to help them develop self-advocacy skills in order to reach their goals. Nunnelly joined TWU 15 years ago with a passion to work with the disability community. Her mission for DSS is to get the word out about students with disabilities. She explained that there has often been a negative connotation associated with DSS because of what some people think of when they consider disabilities, and that it even hinders some students from asking for help because of this stigma. She described the differences between visible vs. invisible disabilities, and how others perceive them, and said that people with invisible conditions often times feel more stigmatized, stating “If it’s something that they [someone] can see, then people tend to be more willing and compassionate.” Nunnelly works alongside Assistant Director Kathy Holland, and together they assist roughly 300 students. Nunnelly believes that sharing each one of these students’ personal stories will encourage and educate others who lack disability awareness. Nursing major Lila Miller at the TWU Dallas campus is a student with a hearing loss, an invisible disability, and uses DSS because, at one point, she was the student in the back of
class who could not hear the professor. At Dallas, compared to the Denton campus, students itch for the opportunity to sit at the front of the class, Miller said. “It’s a dogfight for those first couple of rows,” she added, especially in Science and Nursing classes. “I need to be front and center. I always look at a room before I enter it. I look and I know the acoustics of the room so I know where I need to be,” she explained, further stating that in some cases, she must also resort to reading lips. Last January, Miller heard her own voice for the first time. “That’s what my voice really sounds like?” she exclaimed in astonishment. Miller had just received her first pair of hearing aids, in part due to DSS’ guidance and assistance. Miller had first become aware of her gradual hearing loss in first or second grade, likely due to numerous ear infections as a child. Now as an adult, and because of the rigor of her classes, she needed to be able to keep up with her peers in a verbal classroom environment. To help her overcome these obstacles and achieve her goals, DSS has assisted Miller by reserving a seat for her at the front of her classes. Individuals who are unaware of disability cultures may also be unaware of what kind of language is and is not appropriate to use, Nunnelly said. She believes that society and culture still need to play catch-up, and sadly, it has not happened yet, she said, but it is changing. Words such as “handicap,” “wheelchairbound” and “retarded” are just some of those inappropriate words that society has not yet completely removed from its vocabulary, she noted, which is likely due to the fact that most people are unaware that these words are not politically correct, she said. Kristy Kimball is a Nursing major at TWU Houston and
has an invisible disability: hearing loss. When she first attended Texas A&M University 10 years ago, she said she was struggling in her classes, and could not understand why, until she eventually learned of her hearing loss. “I advocate for myself because many don’t see that I have a disability,” Kimball remarked, an issue that Nunnelly also stresses to those who seek help from DSS. Kimball is not free from others’ misunderstanding, however, and is often treated differently because of her disability. It’s not always what others think, but rather how others treat her. “It is debilitating when people do treat you like you have a disability,” such as those who treat her like she’s “stupid,” she said. Heather O’Brien, a General Studies major with a focus in history and government, has been navigating the TWU Denton campus in her electric wheelchair since 2008. She has cerebral palsy, necessitating the use of a wheelchair for mobility, and furthermore has had a tracheotomy, also affecting her voice. Although she uses a wheelchair, she said, she does not label herself as disabled, because she is still an able person who can take care of herself. “I won’t ask for help unless I really have no other option,” O’Brien stated. For O’Brien, her struggle does not reside in the classroom. “It is getting on and off the elevators, because people cram in,” she said. Additionally, a simple crack in the sidewalk can detour her from her desired destination, often forcing her to take a much longer and more complicated route to get where she is going. Her wheelchair is unable to handle some of those cracks, and over the course of a day, the small cracks add up — but this doesn’t phase her, she pointed out. When people treat her differently, “It’s just lack of
Tune in to the TWU Pep Band
Shelby Baker Sports Editor
Just because they act supportive and peppy, do not mistake them for cheerleaders. The TWU Pep Band, though only established within the last decade, is serious about what it does.
According to the Pep Band website, the group is “an organization of instrumentalists that perform at athletic events in support of our TWU Pioneers.” Members are given a list of scheduled performances they must attend, with an expectation that they attend all of them. “We go to the volleyball and basketball games,” freshman trombone player Amber Chambers stated. “We’re supposed to be peppy while playing marching band music.”
Visiting Assistant Professor of Music Dr. Etienne Stoupy is the director of the Pep Band. According to the TWU music website, Stoupy is a native of France, where he completed his undergraduate studies before continuing his education in the states. Having performed with the Dallas Opera, Orchestra of New Spain, Corinth Symphony in Mississippi, and Orquestra Sinfonica de la U.A.N.L. of Monterrey, Mexico, he now conducts the TWU Wind Symphony and Pep Band as
Hi! My name is Marley. I am a domestic, short-haired cat at the Denton County Animal Shelter. I love to be petted, and I am a bit of an attention hog. I have also been fully vetted, so I am 100 percent ready for a new home. If you are interested in adopting Marley or looking for a new feline friend, please contact Denton Animal Shelter at 940-349-7594. Tuesdays at the shelter is “Two Tone Tuesday,” and every two-toned cat is available for an adoption fee of $10, which includes spaying or neutering and all vaccinations.
Marley
knowledge,” O’Brien said. O’Brien’s experiences have led her to believe that people will not ask her questions in person due to her physical appearance. Likewise, due to her speaking difficulties, she believes that others see her as being incapable of holding a conversation, she said. “I even get people who are scared to come and talk to me.” Christy Allen, a friend of O’Brien’s and former TWU student, is legally blind. Allen’s daily experiences include interactions with sighted people who use visual phrases such as, “I see what you mean.” She becomes frustrated, she said, but understands their intentions and attributes their word choice to a lack of awareness. Her hope is that people without disabilities will begin to see beyond a person’s disabilities, visible and otherwise, and consider a disabled person’s perspective. “That’s the one thing that holds all the misconceptions together,” she said. Allen gets first-hand experience of both the visible and invisible perceptions of those without disabilities. Allen’s otherwise invisible condition is sometimes made visible when she chooses to use her cane to assist in guiding her walking. Others then react differently towards her— opening doors, making sure she is all right – just being all around nicer when she uses her cane, she said. Whether visible or invisible, Miller, Kimball, O’Brien, and Allen all deal with society’s perception of disabled. Although society is struggling to keep up as Nunnelly stated, in each of their minds they do not believe they are classified or labeled by their disablity. The office of DSS is located in CFO Room 106. For further information readers can go to its website, http://www.twu.edu/ disability-support-services/ or call 940-898-3835.
well as teaches instrumental conducting and music appreciation classes. To join the Pep Band, potential members must audition at the start of the fall semester. According to the website, some members are selected for paid positions and those members register for the course, receiving university credit as well as a pep uniform for performances. “I found out during my campus tour and someone else mentioned it to me,” freshman French horn player Nikki Cannon said. “I emailed the instructor and registered.” However, not everything is smiles for some members. Chambers was misled by a fellow student as to what the credit went toward. “I was looking for a fine arts credit,” she recounted, “I asked someone if it counted and they lied and said ‘yes.’ I wish the administration would make it a fine arts credit; it takes a lot of work to play the music and I had to work really hard to get my audition pieces.” On the flip side, the Pep Band provides the opportunity to attend sports events and promote school spirit, in addition to giving people a chance to get involved on campus. “The people in it are really nice,” Cannon said. “I love bonding with my friends and they gave us free popcorn and Diet Coke yesterday. The games are a lot of fun and I like the people.”
Some students argue that the graduation process is just as difficult and complicating as a whole class in and of itself, but if students remain organized and frequently contact professionals, graduation will be here before you can say “Commencement Extravaganza.” There are a number of steps that each student should take in order to successfully graduate from TWU. This does not only apply to undergraduates. The first step is to make sure that the degree plan has met all the requirements. According to the student graduation checklist, the degree plan verification form should be filed with the Registrar’s Office one year prior to the intended completion date. The next step is to apply for graduation through the Pioneer Portal before the deadline date, and pay the graduation application fee, available at www.twu.edu/ registrar/graduation.asp. Make sure that the application indicates the correct degree and major, and while you are in Pioneer Portal, make sure to check that all holds have been cleared. After students have completed that, it is recommended that students read the Tuition Rebate Plan qualifications to make sure one is eligible. This can be viewed at www.twu.edu/registrar/tuitionrebate-plan.asp. If the student is eligible, then he or she must obtain the required signatures
outlined on the form and submit it to the Registrar’s Office by the graduation application deadline. Verify with a TWU advisor that all course substitution forms have been sent in to the Registrar’s Office before the 12th class day of the graduation term, and that the Student Records office has all official transcripts with transfer work from other institutions, updated to the most recent grade. When all the paperwork has been submitted, give the TWU Bookstore a visit to order your regalia, such as cap, gown, cords, etc., and check your email regularly for information on graduation and commencement alerts. TWU’s enrollment services specialist Sarah Kate Henderson explains that since the graduation application opens up three months prior to graduation, it’s very important that students start their application early so they do not have to scramble last minute to get their paperwork together. It is also very important for students to check the Degree Audit Reporting System regularly and to set up appointments with their advisors every semester to make sure they are on track for graduation. According to the TWU website, DARS is an “automated process for tracking your progress in completing a bachelor’s degree at TWU. DARS will help you understand what degree requirements you have fulfilled and what you [still] need to graduate.” Keeping organized, informed and ready are the keys to graduation success. For more information on the graduation process, students can either go to the TWU Office of the Registrar located in ACT building, or call 940-898-3036. Students can also read FAQs and look at the Student Graduation Checklist on their website, http://www.twu. edu/registrar.
Upcoming Dance UpClose concert exhibits diverse repertoire Stephanie Terrell Sr. Reporter
TWU’s Department of Dance will be presenting its second Dance UpClose concert for the fall semester, in the Dance/Gymnastics Laboratory Building at 4 p.m. Thursday and at 7 p.m. FridaySaturday. The show will feature a mixture of undergraduate and graduate students showcasing their works, and the range of choreographic talent being presented uses diverse dance techniques and attitudes to reach different types of audiences. Along with the modern dance style, which is known to represent the TWU Department of Dance, one student choreographer experimented with Bob Fosse style jazz, while other choreographers investigated changing different elements of the formal dance concert experience. “I was extremely worried about the genre I chose,” undergraduate choreographer Ciceley Fullylove explained. “I knew if I didn’t do it right it wouldn’t make a show. If it at all
looked cheesy or lazy I would’ve been sunk. So I worked really hard to use the parts of Fosse people weren’t so familiar with. I wanted it to be recognizable, but I didn’t want to recreate something people had already seen.” Creating a sound score made from the dancers’ voices, claps and breath rather than using recorded music; using an improvisation score rather than set choreography; and having dancers in high-heel shoes to convey a sense of empowerment to the audience all fulfilled Fullylove’s vision for creating a recognizably unique performance. The undergraduate choreographers being featured in the concert include Fullylove, Gabrielle Blanchard, Annabelle Chen, Alexandra Cole, Tasha Courchesne, Franklin Garza, Ursula Hicks, and Elizabeth Reuter. All the undergraduate choreographers, with the exception of Chen, Fullylove and Hicks, are firsttime choreographers in TWU’s Department of Dance. The graduate choreographers being featured in the concert include Whitney Coleman and Brittany Lopez. Dance UpClose will be held in the Dance Studio Theater at 4 p.m. on Thursday and 7 p.m. FridaySaturday General admission is $6, and admission for TWU students is $5.
The Lasso
Board of Regents
twulasso.com
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
5
CONT. from pg. 1 Board of Regents
were business as usual and did not discuss any pressing university business. The FAC approved the newest personnel report and the contracts and agreement list, as well as any new and extended grants. They also received an updated Historically Underutilized Business report and projected status report. The IDC received both the Fundraising report and the Charitable Gift Planning report. They also accepted the list of monetary gifts given to the university. TWU Student Regent Adriana Blanco serves on the Academic Affairs Committee, which received the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools report update. Dr. Barbara Lerner spoke about the “journey to reaffirmation,” and the next steps along the journey, as the university prepares for the April 2013 visit from SAC and the implementation of the Quality Enhancement Plan. As part of the university visits in the spring, all faculty, staff and students will be responsible for knowing the school’s QEP, “Learning by Doing,” and how TWU will implement this QEP into university practices. The AAC then moved on to talk about the integration and reorganization of the Information and Technology Services into the Office of Academic Affairs. Provost Dr. Neeley stated that the realignment has allowed for a “far more effective” office and has resulted in an approximate net savings of $250,000. The Student Life Committee approved an immediate increase in the operating budget of the Food Services Department on the
amount of $612,950 for the fiscal year. An enrollment update was given by the Associate Vice President of Enrollment Services Gary Ray showing that TWU has seen an overall enrollment increase of 3.1 percent. A scholarship update was given regarding the Terry Scholarship and its process of selection. Ninety Students will be given the recommendation, with the field then narrowed down to 33 and the final 16 recipients will come from this list of students. The announcement and explanation of a new program at TWU was also made. The TG Frontier Program Grant which will offer foster children who age out of the system the opportunity to attend college. The students under this program have to take the initial step and apply to TWU. The grant and private donations are helping to fund the program as it is currently in the pilot stage. The committee meetings wound down and the entire board came back together as Dr. Stuart announced to the board that TWU and the University of North Texas have come to the table to look at how each of the universities may partner together to improve certain programs at both schools. Dr. Stuart was adamant in stating that this is “not a merger” with UNT, but that there have been some preliminary conversations between both Presidents and Provosts. The next steps would be to involve faculty and staff in brainstorming and ice-breaking sessions as the conversation enters a new stage of deliberation.
Photography by Shannon Quick
TWU President and Chancellor Dr. Ann Stuart with Provost Dr. Robert Neely meet with the TWU Board of Regents.
Follow The Lasso on
Photography by Shannon Quick
TWU Student Regent Adriana Blanco attends the Board of Regents meeting.
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 1964.
Researched by Ginger Hughes Senior Reporter
“Lack of communication” is a fad phrase. Teenagers say parents don’t communicate, parents say teenagers don’t communicate, employees say employers don’t communicate, and on it goes. Now add to the list the TWU commuter students who also say there is a “lack of communication.” Karen Brown, freshman from Lewisville, says it’s extremely hard to keep up with campus activities even though she reads the Lass-O every day. She feels too many activities are not planned to include the commuter.
Often commuters complain that they have a hard time finding copies of the Lass-O. They say their main link with the student body is not placed in enough accessible locations throughout the campus. The copies in the SUB are often picked up by dorm students before commuters get out of class. A mature student from Dallas complained that it is hard to find a place where they can eat their sack lunches in peace. She says the commuters can’t find each other and communicate with each other. She feels there
should be an established place where off-campus students study, eat, and relax without having to submit to the SUB where eardrums are not assaulted by the blaring juke box. Various commuters communicate by using the large bulletin board outside the University Bookstore. They leave notes about forming carpools and selling books but seldom any other subjects. Since the dormitory students have bulletin boards to read in their residences, the commuters feel they should also have a designated
bulletin board and designated place to meet. Denton residents who commute recognized their problem several years ago and formed Villagers Club in order to unite the students with campus life. At one time there was an organization for the out-of-town commuters called the Lassies of the Road. It is now defunct. All in all, a lack of communication certainly exists. Ask the commuters.
6
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
He said... Alex Ancira Jr. Copy Editor
Bo Carter (moderator) said: What about the 50 percent divorce rate in the country? Do you think they should change something up pertaining to marriage laws? She said: I don’t think it’s a problem with the laws; I think it’s a problem with society in general and the people who marry. A lot of them go into it on the feeling of love rather than the choice of loving someone, and that feeling doesn’t last forever. So no, it’s not a problem with the law, it’s a problem with people getting married way too early. He said: I don’t think it’s necessarily on the preface of love, but I think it’s actually more based on our society’s value system. Our society values heterosexuality, so you’re going to be forced into an environment where you’re going to be looking for that in another person. That might not work out and you’re going to try and break out of it. Bo said: Should there be a separation of church or state mandated training for people who are about to get married as far as “are we really compatible?” Some legislatures have brought that up that would lower the divorce rate if you have to go to marriage classes before you get married. She said: I do think there should be a little bit of marriage
Opinions
counseling or at least classes, so that they can understand what they’re getting into from people who have already gone through it. That will enable them to decide whether or not this marriage they’re about to embark on is a good idea. He said: I agree with you, and I would even go a step fur ther, and say t h a t there should be a r u l e in this Photography and photo editing by Jeni Berry and Maura Teague process Alex Ancira and Shelby Baker discuss their views on divorce. where started in the 60s, with the big t h e y have to have lived together for focus on sex, and it’s just gone raising those ages or having a certain amount of time. I feel downhill since then. mandatory ages to be married He said: Well, I just want to without consent? like a lot of couples are coming out of high school or in the put it this way. I take it from a She said: If we were to raise middle of college and decide position of ‘who will this benefit it, I would raise it to 21, because to get married, have a kid in more’? It doesn’t hurt them that you’re still young, you’re still two years, and it all falls apart. much to wait a while, but it can trying to figure out where and Maybe people should take a definitely hurt if people jump who you are in the world. By little more time before they into the pool before it’s clean. raising it to 21, it gives a lot of We have to be sure it affects people time to go to college if make such a lofty decision. She said: I’m not prone to the most people in the most they want to go to college, or agree with you on taking it a positive way. to get some experience in the Bo said: Some states have workforce so they can know step further because there will be exceptions. However, I agree some really old laws on the who they are as a person before with you on your second point. books. The man has to be 17 jumping into a relationship It all goes back to society—how and the woman has to be 15 where part of their identity is society has been degrading all in order not to need parental in the relationship instead of this time. Personally I believe it consent. Would you be for in themselves.
The Lasso
Shelby Baker Sports Editor
...She said
He said: But I think another law that goes hand in hand with this, is statutory rape. Now, you can be two years apart, say 15 and 17, and in some states that’s acceptable, but if they’re above 18 and say you’re 15 and a half that’s not all right. However, you might be able to marry. That’s a little ridiculous that someone could file a civil suit against you for that, but you could get married. So if we’re going to increase the age on that, we’d need to increase the age of 21 on other legislation. Bo said: What would you do to lower the divorce rate or bring some stability to marriage these days? She said: Honestly, I think the best way to steer marriage into a healthier lifestyle would start young. Love is a choice, not an emotion in a relationship, If they worked it out and they let their kids see them working it out, the kids would get that impression and they would carry those values on into the future, so they would bring that healthier mindset into their own marriages in the future. He said: There is definitely no magical force in the world that is cracking marriage and turning it into garbage. We’re imparting on our youth that loves comes in a certain form and that loves comes in a different form than friendship does. And if you’re going to change how divorce
and marriage is being looked upon, you have to change how we’re viewing love. There’s too much of a dichotomy between love and friendship and I think that’s steering us down a road where we end up dating people we might not love. She said: And finally, on the point of divorce itself, I disagree when there are children involved. It just makes the child’s life that much harder, especially when the holidays come around because when they get older, they have to decide “Who do we visit this year, Mom or Dad?” He said: Sometimes there are just splitting differences that you just can’t move past and putting the children through that could be more detrimental to their mental and emotional stability than the parents splitting up. I think that this idea of a nuclear family if very hurtful for children, and the more we try to force it on them, the worse things are. She said: By waiting until there is no solution and divorce is left, it will still hurt the child, but later on you can tell the child that we tried. He said: So don’t jump ship preemptively. She said: Exactly.
Say “yes” to marijuana Legalizing Stanton Brasher A&E Editor
The propaganda of old would have us believe that the people who smoke pot are degenerate, lazy, violent, and stupid. People are more educated now and reserve that kind of fear for bath salts users, because they know the guy with the family that lives next door and sells insurance during the day is also a weed smoker. The professor with a doctorate in Physics whose research has opened doors into our universe that we never thought possible may partake occasionally. That sweet, old lady who cooks your grilled cheese at your favorite local dive has glaucoma and she secretly scores her stash from her own nephew. Every smoker is different, much like every alcohol drinker. I have met priests who could knock back tequila shots and could keep up with the most grisly, hardened alcoholics in the world. The same can be said for pot smokers. Sure, I know some smokers who have never lived anywhere but their parent’s basement. I have also met pot smoking entrepreneurs who donated more money to one charity event than I could make in a year. Once the stereotype deconstructs, it’s hard to condemn someone for finding their own, harmless way to relax. I could throw statistics and dollar signs at you all day, but let us just look at simple
logic. If marijuana is currently controlled or illegal in 48 states, that means our federal and local governments are spending time building cases against these “deranged” hippies. They are paying for lawyers to convict and, in many cases, defend these reefer heads. Once one is convicted, the government and ultimately the taxpayers pay for their stay in jail or for a probation officer to supervise their entire life for a year or so. It doesn’t take a mathematician to figure out that enforcing drug laws is a costly endeavor to say the least. If marijuana was legal, our federal and state governments would no longer have to pay such frivolous expenses. Does anyone want their tax dollars spent on policing people who just want to eat Cheetos and play Xbox? On top of the money saved, tax revenue can be generated. Just like alcohol, tax the heck out of pot and watch the federal fiscal accounts grow while unemployment decreases due to the decriminalization. It may not fill the bathtub, but it is way more than a single drop and, to me, it seems like an obvious place to start. Now that Obama is in his second term, maybe he can be one of our presidents that make history by cashing out the ways of the old and lighting up our future.
Laura Hilton & Megan Pillow But seriously, the food was fantastic either way. Features Editor & Reporter
mashed chickpea blend that from the grocery store tends to be a little too salty and has a processed aftertaste, yet here tasted just fine; tabbouli, which is a parsley salad with onions and tomatoes, so strong in taste that it overpowered even the spices of the gyro and kofta in the meal; and dolma, an interesting dish consisting of stuffed grape leaves with rice, onions and spices, leading to a bizarre texture that is a little different at first, but with filling that is delicate and pleasant.. To finish the night off we ordered a popular dessert favorite: “Walnut Baklava.” Baklava is another Greek pastry with walnuts and honey made into a flaky texture. This sweet, rich dish really hit the spot for us. The nutty flavor was not overwhelming, nor was it dull, thankfully. Because the combo plate was $19.99, a little steep for two broke girls such as us, we decided to split the food and the cost between the two of us.
With Colorado and Washington navigating a new political landscape, marijuana has become a hot topic within our current administration. No longer can politicians sidestep the question of whether or not marijuana should be legal. Now, the game has changed and law enforcement in these two states is holding the bong shaped ball while other states play spectator through pearly white, Visine-soaked eyes. This is not just a petty issue about a bunch of stoners wanting to get high. This situation is about states’ rights and, ultimately, our rights as voters. The federal government is not some ruling institution that tells us what to do in our lives. We, the people, are the ruling institution and we tell the government what to do. The people in Colorado and Washington have sent a clear message to the government: “Give us cannabis or give us death.” Okay, so maybe no one is dying over the cannabis issue; but the people of this country have been living through an injustice of tyrannical proportion for over the last 50 years. When the punishment is more harmful than the crime, you have injustice being carried out.
prostitution: is society better off? Marygail Isobel Lakner Opinions Editor
There is an adage: prostitution is the world’s oldest profession. Prostitution has been around as long as there has been a desire for sexual contact between people, and I don’t believe that making it illegal is going to eradicate the occurrence of prostitution in any way. In fact, I believe prostitution should be made a legal profession, with regulations to protect not only the clients that may seek out the workers’ services, but also for to protect those working in the business themselves. According to the website SexCrimes.laws.com, 22 countries have legalized prostitution, while prostitution is illegal in the United States, save for a few counties of Nevada outside of Las Vegas according to About. com. For most, the statistics probably aren’t too surprising when comparing the frequency of legal and illegal prostitution. About.com continues to say that prostitution is legal
in Nevada at specifically licensed brothels that undergo strict regulation. Weekly tests for sexually transmitted infections, such as gonorrhea and chlamydia, are required, as are monthly tests for human immunodeficiency virus and syphilis. This helps to spread awareness of these diseases in the community, stops the spread of the infections and offers established and relevant health care to sex workers, especially considering that the average age that men and women become prostitutes, according to SexCrimes.laws.com, is 14. SexCrimes.laws.com also states that a prostitute has unprotected sex around 300 times a year, and that 50 percent of prostitutes worldwide have HIV. Six to eight percent of STIs in the United States are related to prostitution. Prostitutes without the protection of regulation are beaten on an average of 12 times a year, and the murder rate is 204 murders for every 100,000 prostitutes a year. If regulation helps to protect those who are in this business,
giving them a stronger sense of freedom, safety and personal choice, then I think it would be the best choice. Prostitution isn’t going anywhere. Rather, we should make the best of it. Make it available for taxation to help pay for things within the community and help cut down on the costs of legal fees and funding to pay for those arrested staying in prison. OnlineSchools.org states that 80,000 citizens are arrested for soliciting sex; bear in mind, this statistic doesn’t include the number of people arrested who are not citizens. If prostitution were legal and regulated, I believe, crimes against workers such as assault and murder would diminish as there would be a legal safety-net in place for them. All in all, I believe the cost of keeping prostitution illegal and charging those who are part of that system does not negate the fact that it will never stop, no matter how great the magnitude of our efforts.
usually do not have a problem. Not to mention that the plate itself was supposed to be for one person, because there was another dish named “Yummy’s Feast (For Two)” that had double the amount of food
as our own order. Yummy’s Greek Restaurant is open Monday—Thursday from 11 a.m.—9 p.m., Friday—Saturday from 11 a.m.—10 p.m., and Sunday from noon—9 p.m.
No passport needed for this Greek cuisine
University Drive offers a smorgasbord of food options for the hungry and broke college student. Located at 210 West University Dr. right next to Blockbuster, a hole-in-the-wall, family-owned restaurant serves delicious Greek and Lebanese dishes, giving students a chance to try something other than the usual pizza or burger. Yummy’s is a small, quaint restaurant with only nine tables. The ambient atmosphere gave off a feel of family-style dining. We sat ourselves and a young waiter greeted us to get our drink orders. The menu was already at the table when we arrived. We must admit, we are a bit biased. We love food. We love food so much that if a cat and a bowl of hashbrowns were in front of a speeding, out-ofcontrol car and we could only save one of them, we might choose the hashbrowns.
Spanakopita was a fantastic appetizer, which is a pastry filled with spinach and feta cheese, made flaky and triangleshaped with a soft texture that makes your mouth water. Our main course offered some other traditional Greek delicacies. We shared the “Yummy’s Combo Plate” which gave us an array of authentic Greek feast samplings to get the full Yummy’s experience. This included: gyro and saffron rice, which is strips of lamb and beef meat that is served on a bed of saffron rice, a delicious combination; kofta, or ground beef with spices, laid right alongside the gyro and was equally tender and delicious; falafel, a combination of chickpeas, onions, breadcrumbs, herbs and egg all fried into a Hershey’s Kiss™ shape (Pillow enjoyed the falafel, however Hilton thought it was fal-awful); hummus with pita bread, a
When the food was brought out to us, we both realized it was probably a really good idea. The portions here at Yummy’s are more than generous to say the least. We struggled to eat all of it—something with which we
Photography by Laura Hilton
Hummus, gyro, saffron rice, dolma, and other delicious items smothered our plate at Yummy’s Greek Restaurant.
7
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Sports
Inspired through basketball Thurmond’s story
Shelby Baker Sports Editor
Most people know her as a queen of the court. Creative, quiet and encouraging; junior Tabbatha Thurmond started out wanting to be a lawyer when she was little, but now reigns over the basketball court here at TWU. “My inspiration to join basketball was my dad’s encouragement and determination to teach me the game of basketball,” Thurmond explained. “He was the one to get me into the sport at a young age and has worked with me ever since.” According to Thurmond, the team is pretty much another family. The bond they share is one of sisters, partly because they see each other every day and work together. “My entire family, including teammates and coaches in the past and present have helped me in all ways possible,” Thurmond stated. “When I struggle in practice or everyday life my teammates are there and I can always call any of my family members for words of encouragement. Everybody who is associated with me in my life has kept encouraged and motivated by giving good advice and other words of wisdom.” According to TWU’s athletics website, Thurmond was named the 2009-10 District Co-MVP in high school. During her high school career, she was also selected to All-State in 2009-10 and as a first team All-District selection in 200809 and 2009-10. Helping her team to district championships all four years encouraged her to pursue a basketball career at
The Lasso
twulasso.com Opponent
Pioneer Box Scores
Score
Soccer #15 Dallas Bap4st Ouachita Bap4st East Central Northwestern Oklahoma Eastern New Mexico West Texas A&M Incarnate Word Angelo State Abilene Chris4an Midwestern State Texas A&M-‐Commerce Angelo State Incarnate Word West Texas A&M Eastern New Mexico Midwestern State Abilene Chris4an Texas A&M-‐Commerce
L L T W W L W W W T L L L L W L L W
0-‐1 0-‐1 2-‐2 (2ot) 6-‐0 2-‐1 1-‐2 3-‐2 2-‐1 2-‐1 0-‐0 (2ot) 2-‐3 (ot) 0-‐1 0-‐3 0-‐1 2-‐0 1-‐2 0-‐4 1-‐0
LSC Championship Angelo State
L
0-‐1
W W W W W W L L W W W W L W W W L L W W L W W W W W W L W
3-‐0 3-‐0 3-‐0 3-‐0 3-‐2 3-‐0 0-‐3 1-‐3 3-‐0 3-‐1 3-‐0 3-‐0 1-‐3 3-‐0 3-‐0 3-‐0 1-‐3 1-‐3 3-‐1 3-‐0 1-‐3 3-‐0 3-‐1 3-‐0 3-‐0 3-‐1 3-‐0 2-‐3 3-‐1
Volleyball
Photography courtesy of TWU Athletics
Guard Tabbatha Thurmond, No. 24 (center) shoots from the free-throw line in hopes of putting TWU in the lead. TWU. “I began getting letters from TWU women’s basketball and was in contact with coach Jillson,” Thurmond recalled. “She showed me the most interest and in coming to school here and she was consistent.” According to the Athletics website, in her freshman year Thurmond played in 31 games and averaged 6.8 points. During this time, she led the team in free-throw shooting and recorded a then career-high 18 points against Incarnate Word. In 2011-12, she played in 26 games and improved her point average to 7.9. Among Thurmond’s accomplishments her sophomore year were recording 44 assists, a careerhigh 20 points against
Oklahoma Panhandle State and having her first double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds against Eastern New Mexico. “Tabbatha Thurmond leads us in rebounding and is providing some very smart play,” Jillson explained. So far this season, Thurmond has dominated almost every game, scoring the highest points in three games and having the highest number of rebounds in three games. Thurmond aims to become one of the top future sports psychologists in the field. To accomplish this, she is majoring in Psychology and will continue on to graduate school, merging into the professional field of Athletics. Along the way, she has had some life changing moments that have influenced
her decisions. “I had to figure out the hard way when it came to becoming a true adult,” Thurmond said. “I had to really buckle down and realize I’m in the real world now and that it is time to make better decisions regarding my best interest.” Thurmond will, ideally, receive a lot of the experience she needs for her career on the TWU basketball team.
East Central Arkansas Mon4cello New Mexico Highlands Puerto Rico at Rio Piedras Fort hays State Western State College of Colorado #24 Grand Canyon Colorado mesa Texas A&M-‐Kingsville Incarnate Word Texas A&M-‐Commerce Eastern New Mexico #6 West Texas A&M Abilene Chris4an Cameron Midwestern State #12 Angelo State Tarleton State Incarnate Word Texas A&M-‐Kingsville #11 West Texas A&M Eastern New Mexico Midwestern State Cameron Texas A&M-‐Commerce St. Edward's Abilene Chris4an Tarleton State #9 Angelo State
LSC Championship
Story Idea? The Lasso wants to hear from you twu_lasso@yahoo.com
Texas A&M-‐Commerce #11 Angelo State
W 3-‐1 L 2-‐3
Basketball Hardin-‐Simmons (Exh) Ouachita Bap4st Texas A&M-‐Interna4onal Central Oklahoma Colorado Chris4an Northwest Missouri State
W W W L L L
62-‐44 60-‐59 73-‐56 35-‐59 71-‐78 40-‐63
Volleyball falls short in LSC semifinals
Shelby Baker Sports Editor
After one of the best seasons volleyball has had in the past decade, the Pioneers fell to No. 11 Angelo State in the LSC championship semifinals. TWU dug deeply to win the quarter finals against Texas A&M-Commerce, ending the game with a final score of 3-1. Match scores were 25-19, 2517, 23-25, and 25-18 to move on to the semifinals in hopes of continuing to the finals. “I just wish we were on that
plane and leaving for the first round of the NCAA Regionals this week,” head volleyball coach Shelly Barberee stated. “Our conference got Angelo State (ranked No. 11 nationally) and West Texas A&M into the NCAA tournament. I was proud of the way our team fought.” According to the news release, junior Courtnee Davis had 14 kills, sophomore Hannah Marshall added 27 assists and together with sophomore Morgan Wilson, the three accomplished 43 digs for TWU. In the first set, the Pioneers fell by 11 points after ASU built an 18-11 lead, but recovered to win the second set by building an eight-point lead and recording a
.317 hitting percentage. While the third set also went to ASU, TWU held their own in fourth, fighting to push to a fifth set. However, the final set went to Angelo State by four points, though the rest of the set was anyone’s game until them. “I think I had witnessed two double-doubles (statistically) in my first nine years at TWU,” Barberee continued, “and Viktoria Jablonska had nine this season alone. Our 23-8 record was the best since our coaching staff has been at TWU, and I think it says a lot about our support and crowd enthusiasm that we finished 13-2 at home this year.”
Photography courtesy of TWU Athletics
The volleyball team celebrated their win over Texas A&M-Commerce in quarterfinals with gusto on the court. From center to right: Kayla Rivero (14), Courtnee Davis (6) and Marcella Alves (10)
8
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
twulasso.com
Arts & Entertainment
The Lasso
December delivers more than holiday cheer at the box office Stanton Brasher A&E Editor
11-30
12-07
Image courtesy Plan B Entertainmnet
Don’t expect The Fugees to pop up in this film. Brad Pitt stars as a henchman who has to recover money from some thugs that robbed a mob-protected card game, and make things right. James Gandolfini, Richard Jenkins and Ray Liotta also star in this gritty thriller.
Image courtesy of LD Entertainment
One of the most interesting slashers from the past few years, “The Collector,” is back. Take a look at all the things he collects, and I can guarantee you will not find any stamps or old coins. Josh Stewart returns to help rescue the daughter of a very wealthy man.
12-14
Image courtesy Alliance Pictures
With mixed reviews from the festival circuit and a weak 59 percent on RottenTomatoes.com, Bill Murray plays President Franklin D. Roosevelt during a 1939 visit with the King and Queen of England. Murray’s performance looks impeccable, but will probably be overshadowed by Daniel Day Lewis’ turn as Lincoln.
Image courtesy FilmDistrict
Serve this cheese–fest up with some tortilla chips and everyone gets nachos. Gerard Butler plays a washed up soccer star who returns home to coach his son’s soccer team and straighten out his priorities. Catherine Zeta Jones, Dennis Quade and Uma Thurman co-star.
12-21
Image courtesy New Line Cinema
Didn’t get enough movie from the “Lord of the Rings” trilogy? Don’t fret, Peter Jackson is bringing us another long winded fantasy film franchise from Tolkien’s books about Middle–earth. It looks like most of the characters from the original trilogy return with the actors that played them including: Andy Serkis, Martin Freeman, Elijah Wood, and Ian McKellen.
Image courtesy Paramount Pictures
My dad is a fan of the books and angry about the casting of Tom Cruise as the titular character. According to my father, Reacher is not supposed to be “some small, pretty boy from Hollywood.” Although the action film about a military investigator who uncovers a conspiracy looks entertaining, my father assures me they got the wrong guy.
Image courtesy of Gilbert Films
Lizzy Caplan and Alison Brie play sisters in this romantic comedy about a girl who cannot decide between two men, marriage and romantic freedom. It looks like it might have the makings of a great date night flick at the Angelika. This film is directed by Michael Mohan.
12-28
Image courtesy of Apatow Productions
Judd Apatow follows up the events from “Knocked Up” with a story about Pete (Paul Rudd) and Debbie (Leslie Mann) coming to terms with life after 40. Apatow has a sentimental side but is never afraid to find humor in the gutter. His films work well because there is a story for everybody. This one should not disappoint.
Image courtesy Columbia Pictures
Quentin Tarantino consistently makes good films. Even his bad films are awesomely entertaining. Jamie Foxx plays a freed slaveturned-bounty hunter who seeks to emancipate his wife from a harsh Mississippi plantation through any means possible. Leonardo DiCaprio, Samuel L. Jackson, Christoph Waltz, and Kerry Washington also star in this “Westploitation” film.
Big Eyes at Rubbergloves Rehearsal Studio 9 p.m.
BFA Painting in the East Gallery / BFA Graphic Design in the West Gallery of the Fine Arts Building.
Katherine Bigelow scored an Oscar for her film, “The Hurt Locker” in 2009. This controversial film about the hunt and eventual killing of terrorist leader, Osama Bin Laden, has generated a lot of buzz of late. Starring Jessica Chastain, Joel Edgerton, Chris Pratt, and Mark Duplass; “Zero Dark Thirty” could be another Oscar contender for Bigelow.
Image courtesy of Working Title Films
There are high expectations for this musical based on the Broadway hit from the ‘80s. Hugh Jackman plays Jean Valjean, a paroled prisoner who seeks to make a new life for himself while under constant scrutiny by Javart (Russell Crowe). Can Tom Hooper (The King’s Speech) make Oscar magic happen again?
“Cherry Orchard” Audition at The Redbud Theater Complex 5 p.m. David Bazan Band plays Pedro the Lion at Dan’s Silverleaf 8 p.m.
Image courtesy of Annapurna Pictures
Dance up Close at Dance Studio Theater 4 p.m.
Image courtesy of Walden Media
Billy Crystal and Bette Midler play an old married couple that has been tasked with babysitting their grandkids while their over protective parents have to go out of town for business. Crystal has been laying low since “Analyze that,” but scored a huge success as the host of the Oscars last year. I think we should replace the kids with cows so we can finally get that third “City Slickers” film, personally.
Dance up Close at Dance Studio Theater 4 p.m.
Holiday Gala Concert at Margo Jones Performance Hall 7:30 p.m.