The Cameron University Collegian: September 19, 2011

8
Collegian THE CAMERON UNIVERSITY Monday, September 19, 2011 Volume 86 Issue 2 Informing Cameron Since 1926 Aggie News For additional news and features, check out the Collegian at www.aggiecentral.com Aggie A&E Aggie Sports Aggie Voices CrossRoads www.aggiecentral.com Annual Health Fair encourages wholesome living Flu Vaccine: Aggie student recieves flu vaccine at Health Fair. A number of free sevices were offered to students attending the event such asHIV testing and vision testing. See HEALTH FAIR Page 2 By Ishia Saltibus News Editor Students, faculty and staff benefited from the annual Aggie Health Fair on a healthier lifestyle, hosted by the Student Wellness Center on Sept. 7 in the McCasland ballroom located in the McMahon Centennial Complex. e free health event provided students, faculty and staff with preventive health education and screening services. According to the Director of the Student Wellness Center Denice Shegog, the staff is dedicated to educating students about the benefits of a healthy lifestyle. “is is our second year hosting the Aggie Health Fair and recognizing the importance of educating students on healthful living is one of the goals of the Student Wellness Center,” Shegog said. Over 20 health organizations and associations provided nutritional, health, fitness and wellness information. Various tests and screenings for blood sugar, high blood pressure, cholesterol, HIV and vision were available at no charge. Free flu shots were also available to all Cameron students, faculty and staff with a valid ID. In addition, other booths provided information on pet therapy, yoga and tobacco cessation. Massage therapists provided 15-minute therapeutic massages at no charge and Sodexo Food Services provided samples of healthy food. Shegog explained that regular testing and screenings offered by these health care providers help with the early detection of disease. “We are happy to offer this opportunity to students to learn about a variety of health and wellness programs,” Shegog said. “ese programs promote early diagnosis and treatment of disease, and help maximize the community’s health care resources.” Apart from offering students information on healthy living, the first 300 Cameron students received gift bags and were eligible for prize drawing, which included an iPad, two iPod Shuffles with a $25 iTunes card for each, two bicycles and a Kindle. Junior Health and Physical Education major Sean Alexander Batiste attended the event with his friends. He expressed his satisfaction with the health fair. Health Insurance: Affordable coverage for CU students Photo by Ishia Saltibus Cameron University, through a partnership with Academic Health Plans, has made it possible for attending students to sign up for a student health insurance plan at an affordable rate. e insurance plan is available to any domestic student taking six credit hours or more. Jennifer Holland, CU’s Vice President of Student Services, said that enrolled students have received care as a result of the program and that the university has seen it work for students several times. “Several years ago, we put out several proposals for health insurance coverage,” Holland said. “AHP had the best package for Cameron and our students. ey are constantly trying to help us with keeping medical costs down.” Because this is a student- based program, Cameron and AHP work to keep costs relatively low. “e coverage is affordable because of the amount of students enrolled,” Holland said. “It is strictly an accident-illness policy.” According to the Commonwealth Fund 2010 Biennial Health Insurance Survey, 53 million people in the United States reported issues over not being able to pay medical bills. ese are the types of scenarios that the program aims to aid with students. “e costs of the medical bills can become very expensive,” Holland said. “Many students may not finish their education because of the medical expenses that occur if something bad were to happen.” AHP will not deny coverage to any student that meets the six credit hour minimum enrollment, however the insurance will not cover preexisting conditions for a specific period of time. All international students attending Cameron University are required to enroll in the health insurance program. “e reason for having our international students required to purchase this plan is because we assume responsibility of international students while they are in country,” Holland said. Holland also said that the plan will cover domestic students that are studying abroad through Cameron University. For urgent situations, AHP will pay for a severely injured or ill student to travel home to be cared for by their family, or pay to have the family come to be with their dependent. For the current academic year, the annual cost for enrollment is $780. Students can also enroll their spouse and child during the time the student is in school. e plan also covers access to a 24-hour nurse line. e line allows students to identify illnesses over the phone and plan out the next steps for treatment. Cameron University has also partnered with the Southwest Oklahoma Family Medicine Clinic to help students in need of care. If students bring a valid CU ID Card, the clinic will offer a discount on medical services. If students have the AHP student insurance plan, the clinic will waive the deductible that would normally be charged by other locations. For students that do not have healthcare, medical care for acute conditions are available at the Student Wellness Center located in North Shepler. All students that are enrolled on the main campus are eligible for medical services. By Elijah Morlett Assistant Managing Editor Photo by Elijah Morlett Health Plans: Wellness Center workers promote student health insurance at 2011 Health Fair. The insurance plan was designed to cut health costs for students. Photo by Ishia Saltibus See INSURANCE Page 2 Paint the town PAGE 3 Manlympics PAGE 5 PAGE 7 PAGE 8 PAGE 4 Outdoor ministries Through father’s eyes Crosscountry “It is a good thing to have the health fair,” Batiste said. “You get plenty of health information which could be very useful and you also get to sample healthy snacks and food.” Photos by Ishia Saltibus

description

The second issue for the Fall 2011 edition of the Cameron University Collegian

Transcript of The Cameron University Collegian: September 19, 2011

Page 1: The Cameron University Collegian: September 19, 2011

CollegianT H E C A M E R O N U N I V E R S I T Y

Monday, September 19, 2011 Volume 86 Issue 2

Informing Cameron Since 1926

Aggie News

For additional news and features, check out

the Collegian at www.aggiecentral.com

Aggie A&E

Aggie Sports

Aggie Voices

CrossRoads

w w w. a g g i e c e n t r a l . c o m

Annual Health Fair encourages wholesome living

Flu Vaccine: Aggie student recieves flu vaccine at Health Fair. A number of free sevices were offered to students attending the event such asHIV testing and vision testing.

See HEALTH FAIRPage 2

By Ishia SaltibusNews Editor

Students, faculty and staff benefited from the annual Aggie Health Fair on a healthier lifestyle, hosted by the Student Wellness Center on Sept. 7 in the McCasland ballroom located in the McMahon Centennial Complex. The free health event provided students, faculty and staff with preventive health education and screening services.

According to the Director of the Student Wellness Center Denice Shegog, the staff is dedicated to educating students about the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.

“This is our second year hosting the Aggie Health Fair and recognizing the importance of educating students on healthful living is one of the goals of the Student Wellness Center,” Shegog said.

Over 20 health organizations and associations provided nutritional, health, fitness and wellness information.

Various tests and screenings for blood sugar, high blood pressure, cholesterol, HIV and vision were available at no charge. Free flu shots were also available to all Cameron students, faculty and staff with a valid ID.

In addition, other booths provided information on pet therapy, yoga and tobacco cessation. Massage therapists provided 15-minute therapeutic massages at no charge and Sodexo Food Services provided samples of healthy food.

Shegog explained that regular testing and screenings offered by these health care providers help with the early detection of disease.

“We are happy to offer this opportunity to students to learn

about a variety of health and wellness programs,” Shegog said. “These programs promote early diagnosis and treatment of disease, and help maximize the community’s health care resources.”

Apart from offering students information on healthy living, the first 300 Cameron students received gift bags and

were eligible for prize drawing, which included an iPad, two iPod Shuffles with a $25 iTunes card for each, two bicycles and a Kindle.

Junior Health and Physical Education major Sean Alexander Batiste attended the event with his friends. He expressed his satisfaction with the health fair.

Health Insurance: Affordable coverage for CU students

Photo by Ishia Saltibus

Cameron University, through a partnership with Academic Health Plans, has made it possible for attending students to sign up for a student health insurance plan at an affordable rate.

The insurance plan is available to any domestic student taking six credit hours or more. Jennifer Holland, CU’s Vice President of Student Services, said that enrolled students have received care as a result of the program and that the university has seen it work for students several times.

“Several years ago, we put out several proposals for health insurance coverage,” Holland said. “AHP had the best package for Cameron and our students. They are constantly trying to help us with keeping medical costs down.”

Because this is a student-based program, Cameron and AHP work to keep costs relatively low.

“The coverage is affordable because of the amount of students enrolled,” Holland said. “It is strictly an accident-illness policy.”

According to the Commonwealth Fund 2010 Biennial Health Insurance Survey, 53 million people in the United States reported issues over not being able to pay medical bills. These are the types of scenarios that the program aims to aid with students.

“The costs of the medical bills can become very expensive,” Holland said. “Many students may not finish their education because of the medical expenses that occur if something bad were to happen.”

AHP will not deny coverage to any student that meets the six credit hour minimum enrollment, however the insurance will not cover preexisting conditions for a specific period of time.

All international students attending Cameron University are required to enroll in the health insurance program.

“The reason for having our international students required to purchase this plan is because we assume responsibility of international students while they are in country,” Holland said.Holland also said that the plan will cover domestic students that are studying abroad through Cameron University.

For urgent situations, AHP will pay for a severely injured or ill student to travel home to be cared for by their family, or pay to have

the family come to be with their dependent. For the current academic year, the annual cost for enrollment is

$780. Students can also enroll their spouse and child during the time the student is in school.

The plan also covers access to a 24-hour nurse line. The line allows students to identify illnesses over the phone and plan out the next steps for treatment.

Cameron University has also partnered with the Southwest Oklahoma Family Medicine Clinic to help students in need of care. If students bring a valid CU ID Card, the clinic will offer a discount on medical services.

If students have the AHP student insurance plan, the clinic will waive the deductible that would normally be charged by other locations.

For students that do not have healthcare, medical care for acute conditions are available at the Student Wellness Center located in North Shepler. All students that are enrolled on the main campus are eligible for medical services.

By Elijah MorlettAssistant Managing Editor

Photo by Elijah Morlett

Health Plans: Wellness Center workers promote student health insurance at 2011 Health Fair. The insurance plan was designed to cut health costs for students.

Photo by Ishia Saltibus

See INSURANCEPage 2

Paint the town

Page 3

Manlympics

Page 5

Page 7

Page 8

Page 4

Outdoor ministries

Through father’s eyes

Crosscountry

“It is a good thing to have the health fair,” Batiste said. “You get plenty of health information which could be very useful and you also get to sample healthy snacks and food.”

Photos by Ishia Saltibus

Page 2: The Cameron University Collegian: September 19, 2011

Aggie News2 September 19, 2011www.aggiecentral.com

CU professor publishes children’s bookBy Tahira Carter

News Editor

Cameron University Education Assistant Professor Dr. James Hawkins paid tribute to his profession with the publication of his new children’s book, “Daddy, Tell Me a Story about the First Day of School.”

The book, which debuted on Aug. 2, has a targeted audience of children between the ages of four and eight who are preparing to enter the school system for the first time or who have recently started school.

“The events cover a first day of school and hopefully will help parents and children understand that school is a friendly place that is filled with learning and excitement,” Dr. Hawkins said.

Dr. Hawkins has been an educator for most of his life and was able to use his experience to create a piece of literature that would relate his love of education and help keep children interested in learning.

“The profession is demanding but the high from seeing the learning light go on is worth more than all the gold in Ft. Knox,” Dr. Hawkins said.

A great deal of the book’s content is based on personal experiences Dr. Hawkins had during his first day at school. Experiences that no doubt laid the groundwork for what would later become his profession.

“I have been in school, either as a student or a teacher, since I was 5-years-old. The reason that I am, or any of us go, anywhere in life is because of what we learned, for the most part, from our teachers,” Dr. Hawkins said.

Also highlighted in the book are underlying themes such as time organization and a proper balance of academics, family life

and extracurricular activities. Inspiration for the writing

style came from fellow author Tim Russet. Russet’s book “Wisdom of Our Fathers” is a tribute to fathers based on the experiences of everyday American citizens.

“I thought we should have the same kind of book that pays tribute to our teachers,” Dr.

Hawkins said. “I wanted to tell a series of stories much like my father told me and much like I told my two sons about life.”

“Daddy, Tell Me a Story about the First Day of School” is Dr. Hawkins’ first attempt at writing a children’s book and, with the knowledge that only three percent of manuscripts sent to publishers actually

The 30-day pedometer challenge was new to the health fair this year. The challenge, in an effort is to encourage a healthy lifestyle on campus, provided a free solar pedometer and ear buds to all partici-pants.

“We are initiating a new wellness challenge this year,” Shegog said. “The 30-day pedometer competition. The challenge will comprise of two categories: CU students and CU faculty/staff where the person with the most steps for the month will be rewarded with a prize full of health and fitness items.”

Shegog also said, despite the great turnout of students, faculty and staff at this year’s Aggie Health fair, she encourages students to stop by the Student Wellness Center on the first floor of North Shepler if they have any questions.

HEALTH FAIR continued from page 1

All students enrolled have paid for a student wellness fee, allowing them free access to the services. Generic medicine can be prescribed and picked up for a low cost in town.

In addition, students can receive free massage therapy, mental health counseling and hypnosis services at the wellness center.

Students wanting more information regarding the student health insurance office can request a mailed packet from the university by emailing [email protected] or call 580. 581.2244. The Student Wellness Center can also help students gain more information on the program.

More information on the healthcare plan can also be obtained by visiting Cameron’s AHP website, www.ahpcare.com/cameron, or by calling AHP directly at 888 .308.7320.

Crosswords

INSURANCE continued from page 1

Photo by Tahira Carter

become published books, he is pleased with the outcome of the endeavor. Dr. Hawkins said that this book is the first in a series of other “Daddy Tell Me a Story About…” books which would include topics such as a child’s first baseball game and first fishing experience.

Tate Publishing & Enterprises also offers alternative ways to enjoy the book. With each purchase an audio version and a digital version will be available. Parents and students will have the opportunity to choose the format that best suits their needs, whether it be the paperback edition, as an ebook or to have the audio version read to them in animated voices

Parents and students will have the opportunity to read the paperback edition or have the audio version read to them in animated voices.

Dr. Hawkins received his Masters in Education from the University of Oklahoma and completed his Ph.D at Mississippi State University. He has been an Assistant Professor at Cameron University since fall 2005.

A book signing for “Daddy, Tell Me a Story about the First Day of School” is scheduled to be held from 3 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 17 at the Full Circle Bookstore in Oklahoma City.

Across1 Internet letters4 President who appointed Kagan to the Supreme Court9 Stuns with a blow14 Code cracker’s cry15 Noses around16 Good smell17 “No holds barred!”20 Diplomatic quality21 Like many rappers’ jeans22 Where there’s gold, in prospector-speak28 Deli spread29 Kneecap31 “Les __”: show featuring Jean Valjean34 Aussie reptile36 In a few minutes37 Manipulate38 Swallow one’s pride42 Singer Sumac43 Fleshy area below the knee45 Scotch partner46 Ellipsis element47 Nibbled at, with “of ”51 Nadirs53 Worker with icing and sprinkles57 “... stirring, not __ mouse”58 Belgian river60 Ruler to whom thequote formed by the starts of 17-, 22-, 38- and 53-Across is often attributed66 Three-time U.S. Open winner Ivan67 Sympathetic words68 Directional suffix69 Trumpets and trombones, e.g.70 “The Taming of the __”71 Deli bread

Down1 Animator Disney

2 Deli bread3 Keep an eye on4 Decide5 Garment with cups6 Have a bug7 __ toast8 B-flat equivalent9 “Rats!”10 Diamond-patterned socks11 Animal housing12 Aussie bird13 Used a stool18 Pair in the tabloids19 Turkish general23 Feudal armor-busting weapon24 Banks of TV talk25 Owl’s cry26 Bridges of “Sea Hunt”27 Way to verify an ump’s call, for short30 Med sch. subject31 “__ obliged!”32 “I, Robot” author Asimov33 Nintendo princess35 Keeps in the e-mail loop, briefly39 Hershey’s candy in a tube

40 Smell41 Trumpet effect44 Documents with doctored birth dates, say48 Cuts at an angle49 Inkling50 66-Across’s sport52 Eyelid affliction54 “Shoestring” feat55 Big name in blenders56 Second effort

59 Thinker Descartes60 World Series org.61 __ Lingus62 Cell “messenger”63 Dinghy propeller64 Anger65 First word in four state names

Solutions on page 5

Photos By Ishia Saltibus

First day of School: Dr James Hawkins shares his personal experiences as a child in his book. “Daddy tell me a story about the first day of school” is one from the many of series of books to come.

Page 3: The Cameron University Collegian: September 19, 2011

Aggie News 3September 19, 2011www.aggiecentral.com

By Tiffany MartinezStaff Writer

PAINT THE TOWN BLACK AND GOLD

Local Businesses show CU support“Paint the Town Black and Gold” is a student-

initiated campaign that began in an effort to gain greater support for Cameron University from the Lawton-Fort Sill community. Since 2008, students from Cameron have approached businesses in the Lawton area one-by-one, requesting their involvement in the campaign.

Vice President of Student Services, Jennifer Holland, has overseen the expedition since the beginning.

“Sometimes when you drive into a town, you instantly know there is a university there,” Holland said. “That is what our students wanted here. They wanted a greater university feel around our community.”

Holland also said there are several ways businesses can be a part of the campaign.

“It’s as simple as hanging a Cameron decal from the front of the business. That is the only commitment we ask them to make,” Holland said. “They can also fly Cameron flags, hand out athletic schedules and CU posters.”

While delighted by the support of over 100 businesses, Holland wishes to reach out to more businesses concerning the campaign.

“It’s just nice to be able to walk into a business and see that Cameron decal,” Holland said. “Community involvement is important.”

Students with Cameron ID’s are also

eligible for discounts at many of the businesses participating in the “Paint the Town Black and Gold” campaign.

“Many restaurants, hotels, and cell phone companies offer our students deals,” Holland said.

Amanda Hearne, a senior biology major, is Assistant Manager at Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt, which offers a 15 percent discount to Cameron students.

“Half of our customers are probably Cameron students,” Hearne said.

Orange Leaf is located on Northwest Cache Road, less than 10 minutes from the university. Hearne said that, along with the student discount, the close proximity of Orange Leaf to the CU campus is definitely one of the reasons why they recieve a considerable amount of business from students.

“It’s very close to Cameron,” Hearne said. “Students often come in at night, grab some yogurt and use our wifi to study or finish homework.”

Hearne, being a student herself, appreciates the atmosphere often generated at her place of employment.

“Students come in and I’ll ask them about their classes, then they will ask me about mine. It’s really nice to meet and be around people you have something in common with,” Hearne said.

More information on what businesses are involved in the campaign or about how to become involved in the campaign may be obtained at www.cameron.edu/paintthetown.

New Program helps students find employment

Cameron University’s Career Services, a branch of the Office of Student Development, recently introduced a new program to assist students seeking employment.

The program, appropriately named “Hire Cameron Aggies”, was designed to facilitate the employment process by providing a common location where employers and students can interact. This common location will be the College Central Network (CCN).

Career Services Coordinator Jacob Johnson is in charge of this project and expressed the importance of a stable internship program that can help students create links with professionals who they can work with and gain experience.

“There is a big push this year to build the internship program,” Johnson said. “This project is the first of many to help create and sustain the internship program at Cameron.”

Employers can access the College Central Network and post internships, part-time and full time job openings as they become available. Students have the opportunity to browse the

available options and apply to the ones that most interest them.

Although publicity efforts for the project have increased within recent weeks there are still many students who are not aware of the new services or are misinformed. Junior Computer Information Systems major Moshood Ojulari had heard of the new program but was unsure about the services it offered.

“I always thought the CCN was for people searching for full-

time jobs. I didn’t know I could find internships there,” Ojulari said.

It is difficult for supervisors to gauge the popularity of the site among students. The lack of statistics is the biggest obstacle that the program has faced.

“Once someone gets the job, then they are done,” Johnson said. “Seldom do they report back to let us know.”

Students are encouraged to access the services of

By Teewhy DojuteleganStaff Writer

and

Tahira Carter News Editor

the CNN by visiting www.hirecameronaggies.com and clicking on the students and alumni link. First time users will need to set up an account and specify the type of employment they are seeking. The process is easy and new job opportunities are posted daily.

Johnson is also responsible for the Cameron Guarantee, another new academic program that would assist graduate students looking for

employment. The Guarantee will ensure that Cameron University graduates are competent workers when they enter into the work field.

Cameron University has taken the lead in this endeavor and is the first public university to introduce the program. The 2011 Higher Learning Commission’s comprehensive review of Cameron described the university as a “role model institution.”

Eligibility for the program stipulates that the student must have graduated from Cameron University in Spring 2012 or later and must be employed in the state of Oklahoma. The Guarantee Program will reassure employers of the aptitude and professionalism of Cameron graduates.

“It is an amazing program,” Johnson said. “It is the way we guarantee employers that our students are going to do the job they want them to do.”

For more information or for employment advice, the Career Services Office also offers personalized assistance for students who need help to design resumes, learn interview skills or plan their careers. The office also provides review materials for the GRE, MCAT, LSAT and GMAT examinations.

Hire Cameron Aggies: The program assist students by providing a common location where students and employers interact. It is the first to be indroduced by a public university.

Photo by Ishia Saltibus

Graphic by Megan Bristow

Page 4: The Cameron University Collegian: September 19, 2011

Editorial StaffManaging Editor -Megan BristowAsst. Managing Editor-Elijah MorlettNews Editors - Tahira Carter, Ishia SaltibusCrossroads Editor-Ashleigh FletcherA&E Editor - Rashmi ThapiliyaSports Editor - Aaron GillVariety Editor - StaffCopy Editor - Dianne RiddlesAggie Central Editors- Elijah Morlett, Mitch Watson, Kyle Bush

Newsroom StaffFinancial Officer - Susan HillStaff Writers - Tiffany Martinez, Teewhy Dojutelegan, Sarah Szabo, James Meeks, Amber Spurlin, Brandon Thompson, Brenna WelchCirculation Manager - Matt ThompsonAdvertising Manager -Megan BristowPhotographer-Kelsey Carter

Newswriting StudentsJames Meeks, Aaron Gill, Nicole Bucher, Cody Gardner, Scott Haney, Kelsey Carter, Teewhy Dojutelegan, Adrian Alexander, Megan Bell, Tyler Boydston, Leah Ellis, Troy Flewellen, Angela Goode, Simone Graves, Jack A. McGuire, Cassidy Morgan, Markita Nash, Lizzie Oluwabukunmi, Miranda Raines, Dianne Riddles, Alexander Rosa-Figueroa, Thomas Smith, Lindsey Yeahquo

Faculty Adviser Dr. Christopher Keller

About UsThe official student newspaper of Cameron University, The Cameron Collegian is available each Monday during the year. It is printed by the Edmond Sun via the Duncan Banner.

Letters PolicyLetters to the editor will be printed

in the order in which they are received and on a space available basis.

The Collegian reserves the right to edit all letters for content and length. Letters should be no more than 250 words. Letters from individual authors will be published only once every four weeks.

All letters from students should include first and last names, classification and major. No nicknames will be used. Letters from people outside the Cameron community should include name, address and phone number for verification.

Letters can be sent by regular mail, by e-mail to [email protected] or they may be dropped off at our office - Nance Boyer 2060 or at www.aggiecentral.com.

Our Views The opinions expressed in The Collegian pages or personal columns are those of the signed author. The unsigned editorial under the heading “Aggie Voices” represents the opinion of the majority of the editorial board. The opinions expressed in The Collegian do not necessarily represent those of Cameron University or the state of Oklahoma.

Our student media are designated public forums, and free from censorship and advance approval of content. Because content and funding are unrelated, and because the role of adviser does not include advance review of content, student media are free to develop editorial policies and news coverage with the understanding that students and student organizations speak only for themselves. Administrators, faculty, staff or other agents shall not consider the student media’s content when making decisions regarding the media’s funding or faculty adviser.

COLLEGIANFounded in 1926

veritas sempiterna

THE CAMERON UNIVERSITY

Aggie Voices4 September 19, 2011www.aggiecentral.com

As seen through my father’s eyes Reflections of an army son:

Elijah MorlettAssistant Managing

Editor

Growing up, my goal was to be like the other males in my family and join the military. Immediately after my junior year of high school, I enlisted in the Oklahoma Army National Guard as a Chaplain’s Assistant.

I followed in the footsteps of my three older brothers and my father. My brothers all joined the United States Navy immediately after graduating high school, while my father served over 20 years in the United States Army.

I fondly remember the day before I graduated basic combat training at Fort Jackson, S.C. Like all basic training cycles, this day is a designated family day.

For the first time since I left Oklahoma, I got to see my parents. I quickly noticed something different about how my dad was treating me. I could tell he saw me as a different person.

He did not just see me as his son. He saw me as a soldier, someone who had walked in similar boots as he had, someone who had learned some of the same skills as he had and who had committed to serve under the same flag.

He wore the biggest smile on his face that I had ever seen in my life. My father was definitely proud of the man I was becoming.

Four years later, that memory still comes vividly as I continue to serve in the military and finish my education.

The memory is a reminder of the stronger connection and further approval that I gained from my father that day. It is one of the biggest motivators in my life.

Like many other veterans, my father has served several tours overseas and has seen some of the worst aspects of war. The head trauma and other injuries he received while in combat finally caught up with his age.

He is considered a physically disabled veteran. His injuries from his time in service have caused him to live with several

sustaining problems with his shoulders, back and other areas.

He currently suffers from dementia as a result of head trauma from combat. Conversations with my father are not and will not be like they were years ago.

Furthermore, some of his conditions are associated with the Agent Orange herbicide used during the war in Vietnam and he still deals with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder from the combat tours in Vietnam and in Korea.

Without him, I would not have had the many opportunities that I have today.

What I can do is continue to tell him “Thank you for your service, Dad.” His sacrifices provided for my family and cleared the path for my siblings and me to be who we chose to be.

So many members of our Armed Forces, past and present, have made similar sacrifices. Many have given up their lives in order for us to continue chasing the American Dream.

These service members, regardless of their opinions on current warfare, stand ready to defend the principles that our great nation we were founded on.

Being in a military community, it is common to see military personnel around so often. The “Thank you for your service” does not come as often as when someone is in a primarily civilian area.

During the most recent drill weekend, I went to lunch with two other soldiers from my unit. We stood out pretty well as we were in uniform in a different town. When we asked for the check, we found out that another customer had paid for our meals.

I was very grateful for their anonymous gesture of support and appreciation. At this point, I could only think that my father had laid out the foundation for me to get here.

Thank you to all the service members for your sacrifices to keep our country strong.

Thank you, Dad, for everything you have done.

Photo Courtesy of Elijah MorlettA Path to Follow: Jose-Angel Morlett shares a proud moment with his son Elijah Morlett and his drill sergeant Charles Mills at graduation from Basic Training in September 2007. Since that day, Mr. Morlett’s health has continued to deterioriate but this doesn’t change the fact that he has provided an excellent role model for his children.

Romance increasingly crossing borders

Are long-distance relationships a growing trend?

My mother made an observation a few weeks ago that really got me thinking.

“All my children are in long-distance relationships. What does this mean?” my mother asked. At the time, I did not give it much thought, but her question stuck with me. I could not readily produce an answer that justified our relationship choices.

I knew that my eldest brother was in a long-distance relationship and so was I, but it was not until recently that the last of us, my immediate older brother, moved away from his girlfriend to complete his doctorate thereby making the circle of long-distance relationships among the siblings complete.

All three of us had casually entered into a relationship type that only a few years ago was practically considered taboo. Determined to prove to myself that my brothers and I were not weird, I began to look for

evidence of this behavior among my friends and sure enough, many of them were trying out long-distance dating as well.

Once I got beyond the initial oddness of the realization, it was not difficult for me to pin down some key reasons why we may be more open to the idea of long-distance relations now than we were in previous years.

With the increased use of applications like Facebook and Twitter, we have become accustomed to updating our activities, photos and thoughts on a regular basis – sometimes too regular. We have also become more accustomed to the simple act of sharing personal information online. Forums and platforms for online interaction are like second homes to us, because we share them with our friends.

Video chat programs like Skype and Facetime have also made a world of difference in the way that we view long-distance relationships. Gone are the days when we had to wait a year or save for months to see the animated smiling faces of our loved ones, now we can see them every time we get on our computers. Better yet, we can take them with us on our phones.

Thanks to technology, it is not difficult to see why long-distance relationships are increasing. This type of relationship is increasing because the distance is decreasing, or at least that is the way it feels when you can see your boyfriend’s face every morning before you leave the house and every night before

bed. It certainly takes the sting out of separation.

With all the hoopla of technology and its never ending list of praises aside, however, there are still those that won’t understand why a person would choose to be in a LDR rather than break-up and find a new partner that could be physically near them.

When I asked why he and his girlfriend decided to try a long-distance relationship, my brother said that it is a compromise.“It is the best compromise when you both want more but refuse to take a step backward to achieve it,” my brother said.

Well-said brother dear.The growing attraction to

this relationship option comes from our generation’s desire to have it all, or as my grandmother used to say, our desire to have our cake and eat it too.

I say ‘our’ because I too fall into this category. My home country did not offer

the education that I wanted but I also wanted to keep my relationship with my boyfriend and remain close to my family. With some sacrifice, I have managed to achieve all of these things without taking a step backward.

A recent study, in the journal Communication Research, finds that as many as half of college students are in long-distance relationships and up to 75% will be at some point.

While I am certain that none of us set out with the intent to be away from our partners, long-distance relationships are officially a viable relationship choice for those that need it. The number of long-distance relationships is increasing among couples nationwide and this fact shows that our ambitions are driving us further apart. Thankfully, we have the internet and a plethora of new technologies to bring us back together again.

Tahira CarterNews Editor

Photo Courtesy of Tahira CarterFar Away Love: Tahira Carter has been dating her boyfriend, Ekai Txapartegi, for almost four years. Over two of those years have been spent in a long distance relationship.

Page 5: The Cameron University Collegian: September 19, 2011

Aggie A&E 5September 19, 2011www.aggiecentral.com

Manlympics tests participants’ “manly” skills

The Sigma Tau Gamma Fraternity tested 10 contestants in all things man at their first annual Manlympics, held at 7 p.m. on Sept. 8 in the Shepler Ballroom.

According to Kevin Stieb, a 20-year-old junior Biology major and a Sigma Tau Gamma member in charge of the event, the contestants were posed with several challenges aimed at testing their “manly” skills.

Stieb said the Manlympics began with a hotdog-eating contest that eliminated one contestant, who then became the fourth judge in the competition. The following rounds, he said, consisted of things such as an arcade style football throwing competition, man themed trivia and a tie-a-tie contest.

According to Stieb, this was the first year the Sigma Tau Gamma Fraternity held the event, but not their first attempt at it.

He said the fraternity had originally planned to do the Manlympics during the 2011 spring semester, but the ice storm that shut down the Cameron campus forced cancellation.

Stieb said they decided to try it again this semester and thought it was reasonably successful despite not achieving the turnout he had anticipated.

He went on to say that they had unintentionally planned the Manlympics at the same time as a CU volleyball game.

By Amber SpurlinStaff Writer

“Although I was expecting more people to show up, I think the event was a moderate success,” Stieb said. “We accidentally scheduled two of our events during volleyball games so the people who traditionally would have attended had to decide between the two. We’ll try to make sure that we don’t do that again.”

According to Stieb, the person placing first in a round received 15 points, followed by 14 points for second place and down from there. He said the judges also awarded up to 20 style points to each contestant in each round, and that the overall winner was determined based on total points.

The winner of the Manlympics was 23-year-old senior Business Management major Myles Mendez.

Mendez said he had no strategy for winning, noting that he was decent at many things. He went on to say that he had a great time during the competition and would participate again if this were not his last year at CU.

“I didn’t really have a strategy,” Mendez said. “I’m just a jack-of-all-trades, master of few.”

According to Stieb, there were two other events held by the Sigma Tau Gama Fraternity on Sept. 8. The first was a poker run with a twist; the second was a paper-rock-scissors tournament.

“The poker run was essentially set up like a typical one except that the locations were spread around campus

and participants had to answer man trivia to receive a card,” Stieb said. “There was also a rock-paper-scissors tournament, which had a large turnout.”

Stieb said the Manlympics, as well as the Poker Run and the Rock-Paper-Scissors tournament, were part of Sigma Tau Gama’s Rush Week.

He went on to say that the point of the Manlympics was to recruit for the Fraternity.

“The Manlympics was a recruitment event for sigma Tau gamma,” Stieb said. “The purpose was to see who the manliest person on campus was, then give him $100 for manly things such as beef jerky and straight razors.”

Being manly: Contestants show their “manly” skills in the root beer cogghing contest. Sigma Tau Gamma Fraternity organized the first annual Manlympics where the participants went through different rounds of challenges that tested their “manly” skills.

Photo by Jessie Arrendondo.

Deciding the winner: Judges calculate their points to before announcing the winner of the competition. 23-year-old senior business management major Myles Mendez was announced the winner of the evening.

Photo by Jessie Arrendondo

A tour of classical movies with Magic LanternBy Rashmi Thapaliya

A & E EditorThe Magic Lantern Film

Society commenced its 30th Annual Classic Film Series 2011-2012 with the Western classic movie “Fort Apache” on Friday, Sept. 9 in the CETES Conference Center, Room B.

Fort Apache is a 1948 film directed by John Ford and starring Henry Fonda, John Wayne and Shirley Temple. The film takes place in the post civil war period where an arrogant and egocentric colonel leads his hesitant men into battle against a Native American leader Cochise, played by Miguel Inclan, and his well-prepared tribe. Despite warning from Colonel Thursday’s subordinate, Captain Kirby York, played by John Wayne, Colonel Thursday leads his regiment into the attack. The regiment suffers heavy casualties and Colonel Thursday dies.

The press portrays Colonel Thursday as a great man who died on the battlefield fighting bravely for his country. This is the irony of the movie.

The movie also features the love story between

audience,” Dr. Morris said. “We put some of the requested films in the list of upcoming movies.”

Beth Gregory, Director of Upward Bound and Open Doors, enjoyed the movie night with her students.

“I have a group of Upward Bound program kids watching the movie today,” Gregory said. “They are required to attend at least one cultural program a month and they like to watch the classic movies here which otherwise they will never watch.”

Alla Ivanova, a Fulbright student from Russia who is also teaching Russian at Cameron, said that she liked the movie.

“I am interested in American culture and also like watching old movies,” Ivanova said. “This movie showed some culture and history of America and I am looking forward to attending other movie nights in the future.”

Dr. Morris said that the Magic Lantern provides inexpensive entertainment to everyone.

“We show the great movies of different genres that are at least 10 years old,” Dr. Morris said. “Watching such movies can become an important part of College education for the students.”

Cameron History Professor Mark Stegmaier and Cameron

Colonel Thursday’s daughter, Philadelphia, played by Shirley Temple, and Second Lieutenant Michael Shannon O’Rourke, played by John Agar.

The first two episodes from the 1940 Green Hornet serial were shown earlier in the

evening. The serial was a lighthearted action comedy drama in which the publisher of a famous newspaper, with the assistance of his sidekick Nato, fights against crime.

Dr. John Morris, Professor of English and adviser of the Magic Lantern Film Society said that in the past, people used to go to the theatres once or more a week to watch the movie serials like Green Hornet.

“Though such serial

movies did not have a serious storyline and made little sense, people still loved them,” Dr. Morris said.

This year Magic Lantern is all set to screen 12 movies including a “Halloween” and “Silent Movie” double features.

The Halloween double feature includes “Gojira,” a Japanase movie directed by Inoshiro Honda and “The Wrong Box,” directed by Bryan Forbes. The silent movie double feature include “Kriemhilde’s Revenge,” a German movie directed by Fritz Lang and “IT” directed by Clarence Badger and Josel von Sternberg.

French movie “Pepe le Moku” directed by Julien Duvivier is also in the list. The foreign movies will be shown with English subtitles. Dr. Morris said that he prefers foreign movies to be shown with English subtitles than the dubbed version.

“The dubbed version of foreign movies do not sound genuine to the audience,” Dr. Morris said. “Adding subtitles helps the audience to hear the original voices of the actors and also understand them.”

Dr. Morris said that the advisers and student officers of the society meet to decide which movies to feature for a year.

“We also take requests from

Movie Time: Dr. John Morris, Professor of English and adviser of the Magic Lantern Film Society talks to the audience about the movie “Fort Apache” before its screening. Magic Lantern is celebrating its 30th annual classic film series 2011-2012.

Photo by Rashmi Thapaliya

A Western Classic: Magic Lantern Film Society starts its 30th Annual Classic Film Series with the Western Classic movie, “Fort Apache.” The movie was directed by John Ford.

Graphic Courtesy of The Magic Lantern Film Society

English/Foreign Language Professor Marilyn Beaney started the society in the spring of 1982. The first showing featured two sixteen mm movies. The Magic Lantern Society was named after a theatre called the Magic Lantern that was located in Santa Barbara, California. The magic lantern was also a name given to early projection equipment.

Senior Mary O’Doherty, an English major is the current president of the society. Sherry Newell, Professor in Emerita in the Department of English is the adviser of the society along with Dr. Morris.

Admission is free to students, faculty and community members as well as free popcorn and refreshments are served during the movies. The film society sustains on the donations by community members and others.

CROSSWORD ANSWERS

Page 6: The Cameron University Collegian: September 19, 2011

Aggie Sports6 September 19, 2011www.aggiecentral.com

Cross Country places second at homeCameron University

cross country is getting in shape for the remainder of the fall season. The Aggies are looking to better their performance from Fall 2010 and get the conference buzzing.

So far, the Aggies have had two meets in which they have performed exceptionally. Coach Matt Aguero is looking forward to what is almost a brand new team to him. Six Aggies will be returning to the course this season with the addition of seven new freshmen runners.

Coach Aguero is very optimistic about how this season will turn out.

“The Lone Star Conference and South Central region is very strong as always,” Aguero said. “I feel like we can continue to be one of the top tier teams in both.”

However, the Aggies are still in the priming stage of their season. The first two races have been without a couple of key components on the roster and Aguero is ready to get them back on the course.

“Everybody is racing well,” Aguero said. “I know once we get these other guys in we will be a strong team.”

The Aggies’ season is approaching a midway point quickly and Aguero is looking to make sure that his runners are in shape to set personal bests by

the time Conference rolls around.

“Everyone is working hard,” Aguero said. “We have guys running from 50 to 100 miles per week.”

The Aggies hosted their own meet, an 8k race, on Saturday, Sept. 10, at The Big Green Soccer Complex here in Lawton.

The Aggies finished second overall, only to be outdone by East Central University.

“We had a good meet,” Aguero said. “ECU is the top team in the region, but if we can be 100 percent healthy we can be right there with them.”

Hilary Kirwa, a freshman on the team, finished second in the Aggie Showdown with a time of 25:04:72.

The only person that beat this time was Ezekiel Kissorio from ECU with a time of 25:04:53.

Four other Aggies helped the team in achieving their second place finish. Among these runners were freshman Alfonso Lozoya, who placed 14 overall with a time of 26:48:46. Freshman Tyler Jacobs brought through the middle of the pack placing 16 overall with a time of 27:01:59. Senior Brian Mulwo (27:21:88) and sophomore Marcus

As the fall semester moves into full swing, CU Athletics is just beginning to heat up.

The volleyball team is in conference play, the golf teams are attending tournaments, the cross-country team has participated in several meets, but the cheerleaders have been preparing for these seasons all summer.

According to co-head cheer coach Korie Brox, her cheerleaders had a grueling summer schedule preparing for their yearlong cheer season.

In cheerleading you do not really have an offseason,” Brox said. “We literally have tryouts right after our season is over and begin practicing immediately.”

During the summer, the CU cheerleaders went through practice schedules comparable to that of football players.

Coach Brox said that her co-captain Aaron Gill told her that the conditioning was harder than playing football in high school.

According to Brox, the cheer squad had two-a-days every other weekend over the summer break.

“This summer we practiced every other weekend and we had two-a-days,” Brox said. “We had three hour practices two times a day.”

The cheerleaders are much more than just pom-poms and megaphones at Cameron; they attend alumni events and other functions at the school as a symbol of school pride and dedication.

“We go to campus events for alumni and other celebrations,” Brox said.

According to Brox, the Aggie cheerleaders have a busier schedule than many CU athletes do.

Brox said that her cheerleaders often attend more

Trevino (27:58:19) rounded up the remaining scoring positions placing 22 and 28 respectively.

The Aggies are far from finished with their season and Aguero is ready to see just how runners will help with the rest of the season.

“In order for us to be the team we are capable of being everyone will need to step up and run well,” Aguero said.

These running Aggies are not ready to hang up their spikes just yet.

With two top five finishes under their belt, the team will be traveling to Stillwater for the Oklahoma State University Cowboy Stampede

By Aaron Gill Sports Editor

on Saturday, Oct. 1. Mulwo and Kipkosgei will

be looking to once again break into the top 50 at this meet and possibly better their times from last years race.

The Aggies have a long road ahead of them until the regional meet on Nov. 5. With an optimistic coach and high personal goals set by the athletes, they hope to climb to the top of the regional charts.

For more information on how the Aggies are doing this season or to check the remainder of their schedule for the fall, visit www.CameronAggies.com

Photo courtesy of Sports Information

Run Aggies run: The running Aggies are off to a great start this season with a fourth and second place finish in their first two meets. The Aggie Cross Country team lined up for the start of The Aggie Showdown at The Big Green Soccer Complex earlier this month, where Hilary Kirwa pulled in a second place overall finish for the Aggies, earning them two points.

Aggie cheer is pumping up the crowdsBy Brandon Thompson

Staff Writer

Black and gold, let’s go: At a recent volleyball game sophomore Co-Captain Alexis Smith (above) raises her poms during the fight song and junior Captain Taylor Cudd (left) rises above the crowd in a stunt during a time out. The Aggie cheerleaders have been hard at work prepairing for volleyball and basketball games, as well as putting thogether a national competition routine.

than one event in a day. They are expected to be at almost every CU athletic event.

“We try to support all of the athletic events here,” Brox said. “Like today we went to the cross country meet before the volleyball game.”

The cheerleaders also prepare for competitions of their own during the week. This year, Brox said that her squad would compete in Nationals.

“We are actually going to Nationals this year,” Brox said.

“Most schools only compete once a year in college because you are so busy with attending all the other schools events.”

Nationals are the biggest event of the year for cheer groups across the country. Brox explained that there are two different national cheer competitions and the one CU will attend is in Florida.

“There are two huge nationals for cheerleading,” Brox said. “The one we attend is in Daytona and almost every university will be there from all over the United

Photos courtesy of Sports Information

States.”In addition to attending

Nationals this year, CU will be introducing a dance team to join the cheerleaders during basketball season.

“We just started a dance team here, we will do performances at half times and between the games,” Brox said. “We will also dance at events like Aggie

Madness. We won’t start until basketball season because tryouts were held late this year.”

Brox said that this basketball season the cheerleaders will stand on one end of the court while the dance squad stands at the other. The two groups will work together to bring the Aggie crowd to its feet.

Page 7: The Cameron University Collegian: September 19, 2011

Aggie Sports 7September 19, 2011www.aggiecentral.com

Volleyball is on a roll after two straightBy Brandon Thompson

Staff Writer

Dance team to turn heads this seasonBy Aaron Gill

Sports Editor

Look out Aggies, there are some new girls in town who are ready to make heads turn. The Cameron University Athletic Department has recently made the decision to field another team to their 12-team arsenal.

The 13th team is that of the Cameron University Pom Squad. Head coaches Brooke Wojick and Korie Brox will be directing the team along with their cheerleaders and are excited about the new addition to the Athletic Department.

Coach Brox is really looking forward to seeing how this addition will help at games.

“We really wanted to incorporate a spirit program into Cameron like most bigger Universities have to enhance the game atmosphere,” Brox said.

There are many people on campus that have not heard of a dance team this semester. Brox said that there has not been a recruiting standard set just yet.

“Being in our first year,” Brox said, “we have not had the opportunity to recruit yet.”

The addition of the dance team could possibly be a game changer in the Aggie men’s basketball search for a conference championship this season.

“We are looking forward to seeing what the dance team brings to the game atmosphere at Cameron,” Brox said. “We feel that having two spirit teams on both ends of the court will really help with getting the crowd involved.”

The head coaches have been speaking with the Athletic Department about fielding a dance team since they took over the cheerleading squad

last fall. “We have discussed having

a dance team at Cameron for about a year,” Brox said.

As with anything else when putting a plan into action there has to be an idea that turns into a presentation and then, hopefully, the idea can turn into a reality. The coaches did just that when it came to their dream of a dance team.

“We proposed the idea of a dance team to the Athletic Department,” Brox said, “discussing all of the possibilities a dance team could bring to the University.”

During the proposal the coaches gave specifics as to how they thought the crowd and community would respond to having multiple people on the baselines at basketball games as well as volleyball games.

“We talked about how the team would be dedicated to representing the University in an energetic and positive manner,” Brox said, “while entertaining Cameron fans at all home volleyball and basketball games as well as numerous campus, charity and corporate events around the community.”

As with any other University funded sport, there are incentives for those who qualify for them.

“Room and tuition waivers are offered to those who qualify,” Brox said.

The dance team coaching staff is looking forward to not just having the team but they are also intent on turning the team into a lasting tradition in the Athletic Department.

“Our expectations for this year are to build the program up so that it will be a lasting tradition at the University,” Brox said.

Just like with any other

sport the coaches want to promote an enthusiastic atmosphere and they believe the dance team will do that.

“Having the dance team support the athletic teams by generating crowd enthusiasm and by fostering school spirit and loyalty to the Aggies,” Brox said, “will add even more greatness to Cameron athletics and we are really excited to see what the year brings.”

The Aggie dance team is hard at work as they prepare for their first game as the women’s basketball team takes the court for the first time at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 15 in the Aggie Gymnasium

A few hours later, the Aggies made Acton’s prediction come true. The Aggies jumped off to a quick lead taking the first set. The Lions then rallied in the second to even the score.

The Aggies roared back, taking the third set from the Lions. As the Aggies and the large crowd at the CU Gym began to take a breath, the Lions came out in the fourth set and once again tied the

The Lady Aggies are off to a hot start. CU began the season with a 2-1 start in conference play with a win over Texas Women’s University and Texas A&M Commerce.

The Aggies are already exceeding expectation with just three games into LCS play. The Aggies, coming off a big win at Texas Women’s University, saw an even greater opportunity to knock off Texas A&M Commerce.

Malyssa Acton, a Texas native, started her senior season off with high hopes for the Aggies. Acton said that she thinks the season is already going better than many people expected.

“I think we are really meshing as a team; we are off to a good start and doing better than people expected,” Acton said. “We are just going to keep getting better.”

Acton said that she credited the win against Texas Women’s University to increasing team chemistry and consistency.

“Our team chemistry is far better than it has been in the past,” Acton said. “We played as a team and we were consistent, things we have struggled with in the past years.”

As Acton and the Aggies headed toward their Saturday matchup against Texas A&M Commerce, they understood the enormity of what this match could do for them and the rest of the season.

“If we can beat a team like Texas A&M Commerce,” Acton said, “it will definitely change people’s opinion of us.”

match.The fifth and final set was

one for the ages as the Aggies held on for a 15-13 victory over the Lions.

Acton said before the match that she thought the teams’ strengths were their ability to rally score, solid defense and everyone stepping up their level of play.

“We have amazing defenders,” Acton said. “Our

defense just keeps rally scoring and we have a pretty consistent offense.”

Acton’s words rang true throughout the Aggies match against the Lions. The Aggies ability to rally score and offensive consistency led the team to a thrilling win.

The Lady Aggies are sure to build on the momentum carried away from this win to reach their season goals.

“We are planning on making the conference tournament this year,” Acton said. “I can guarantee that is one of our main goals.”

According to Acton, the more games the Aggies play together the better the team will play as a whole.

“We are a lot more comfortable with playing with each other,” Acton said, “it will only get better.”

Dance like no one’s watching: Headed by coaches Korie Brox and Brooke Wojick, the dance team is hard at work preparing for the upcoming basketball season. The Athletic department added the dance team earlier this semester.

Photo courtsey of Sports Information

Spike it Aggies: In a recent game against the Texas A&M Commerce Lions freshmen Kelle Carver (left) and Rebecca Green (right) soar above the net for an Aggie block. The Aggie Volleyball team have started their season with a 3-3 record.

Photo courtsey of Sports Information

against Barclay College. If interested in trying out for the Cameron University Dance Team, contact the Athletic

department to set up a meeting with Coaches Brooke Wojick and Korie Brox.

Page 8: The Cameron University Collegian: September 19, 2011

CROSSROADS8 September 19, 2011www.aggiecentral.com

Photo by Ashleigh FletcherBreathe in, Breathe out:The girls of Wednesday night Zumba catch their breath after fi nishing up a workout routine. Zumba has become one of the most popular classes offered by the Fitness Center and meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

Lawton’s Bridge Park is not just for playtimeA local ministry has made helping the Lawton community their main priority.Bridge Park Ministry is an outdoor ministry serving the public from noon to 2

p.m. every Saturday at Bridge Park, located at Sheridan Road and D Avenue. Jeff Henderson, the founder of Bridge Park Ministry, started working on this

project in 2009.“Starting Bridge Park Ministries was really a group effort,” Henderson said.

“We were lucky enough to have the help of Kim Shahan, of the Lawton Parks and Recreation Department, in finding a spot to call home.”

Henderson recounts his reaction to the area of the park and his feeling that Bridge Park is where his ministry needed to be.

“I knew from the beginning this park was where we were supposed to be,” Henderson said. “This is an area of Lawton that has a lot of need.”

Bridge Park Ministry offers a variety of different things every week, including free meals, free clothing, free diapers, live entertainment, crafts and tutoring for children, and prayer and gospel delivered by Jeff Henderson himself.

Henderson said the goal of this event is not to provide necessities, but share the message of Jesus Christ.

“Our main goal here is not to provide people with food, clothing and necessities,” he said. “Our primary goal is to share the light of Christ with others in our community.”

Henderson explained that the Bridge park Ministry team has met many new people and is seeing major growth in this weekly event.

“We have met and connected with many great people who have made our ministry their church and are bringing their friends and loved ones,” he said. “God has changed their hearts, they are bringing people, and the ministry is growing.”

According to Henderson, donations and volunteers completely fund and run the Bridge Park Ministry.

“We are always in need of volunteers,” he said. “As a ministry, we want to work and connect with anyone willing to help.”

Henderson said that anyone interested in helping can contact him directly at 580.695.5196 or can sign up online to donate or volunteer at m28ministries.org

A Cameron University student group, Unforgotten Ministries, is involved with Bridge Park and is an easy way for students to get involved.

Cameron student Melissa Rogers started CU’s Unforgotten Ministries one year ago, and much like Bridge Park Ministries, one of their main goals is giving back to the community.

“When we started our primary goal was to raise money for Haiti relief,” Rogers said. “As time has gone we are finding community projects to be just as important to us, they are becoming our main focus.”

Rogers explained that the group is small, but they are hoping to grow and collect new members.

“We are a smaller group, only about 15 or 20 people, so we get a lot of help and support from friends and families,” she said. “We are looking forward to expanding unforgotten Ministries and excited for others to join us.”

To become involved in Cameron University’s Unforgotten Ministries students can contact Rogers directly at [email protected].

By Ashleigh FletcherCrossroads Editor

Words of Wisdom: Jeff Henderson delivers a sermon during a Saturday morning Bridge Park Minnistry lunch. Jeff feels the mission of his ministry is to share the light of Christ.

Photo by Ashleigh Fletcher

Helping Hands: Melissa Rogers serves lunch to a Bridge Park visitor. Melissa Founded Unforgotten Ministries a year ago and is excitedto see her project grow.

Fitness Center launches new Workout & Win program

Photo by Ashleigh Fletcher

� e Cameron University Fitness Center is encouraging participation in exercise classes by hosting its Workout & Win Program during September.

� e program gives patrons the opportunity to register for a drawing every time they attend a class.

At the end of the month, three separate drawings will be held for faculty, staff and students.

In previous years, prizes have included gift cards to area retailers such as Big 5 sports and the University Bookstore.

Fitness Center Manager Lindy Gourley said that she decided to host the Workout & Win Program at the beginning of the school year to encourage students, staff and faculty to tryout the exercise classes.

Coupons to enter the month-long drawing are available from group exercise instructors. � e program began on Sept. 1 and will run until the end of the month.

All exercise courses at the Fitness Center are free with morning and evening classes taught throughout the week.

Subjects include Zumba, Running/Walking, Kettlebell and Interval/Circuit Training.

According to Gourley, Kettlebell is a new class. Kettlebell is a dynamic workout that involves cast iron weights. � e exercise incorporates endurance, strength, balance, agility and cardio training.

Kettlebell classes meet on Wednesday from 6 to 7 a.m. and on � ursday from 5:50 to 6:20 p.m.

� e Running/Walking Program classes meet on Monday and Friday from 6 a.m. to 7 a.m.

By Brenna WelchSta� Writer

Turn pudge into prizes

Up In The Gym Just Working On My Fitness: The wednesday night zumba class participating in a high intensity dance inspired workout. Zumba is only one of the many group classes offered by the Fitness Center.

Photo by Ashleigh Fletcher

Interval/Circuit training is available Tuesday and � ursday from 6 to 7 a.m.Zumba classes meet on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 5:15 to 6:15 p.m. Zumba is one of the most popular classes off ered. Gourley contributes its popularity to its features

on television. Zumba is a Latin-inspired dance-fi tness program that combines Latin dance moves with cardio aerobic exercise.

Amina Fix, a senior in the Biology Department, attends Zumba twice a week. Amina enjoys the Workout & Win Program because it helps motivate her to attend.

“It’s a great cardio workout. You don’t even realize you are burning calories until you look down and your shirt is soaked through,” Fix said.

New incoming freshman, Amber Holt, a Communication major, has not attended any exercise courses, but she said the Workout & Win has motivated her to try the classes.

By off ering rewards programs new students, like Holt, have more reasons to try the CU Fitness Center and build lasting exercise habits and routines.

Gourley said that she hopes the program will increase interest in the Fitness Center. Class attendance is not recorded; however, she said that it is easy to tell when participation in group exercise classes increases.

For video links to this week’s Collegian stories, visit

AggieCentral.com

For video links to this week’s Collegian stories, visit

AggieCentral.com