Life as a PJ

Global warming evangelist - for the Chicago Tribune

2012-01-11T23:19:00.003-06:00

Katharine Hayhoe (cq) spoke about climate change to students and faculty at Wayland Baptist University Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2011, in Plainview, Tex. Hayhoe is an evangelical Christian and a professor in the Department of Geosciences at Texas Tech University.

(Geoffrey McAllister/for the Chicago Tribune)

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Spreading the global warming gospel

December 07, 2011|By Neela Banerjee, Los Angeles Times

Reporting from Lubbock, Texas

When Katharine Hayhoe was faced with telling a group of petroleum engineers in the heart of the Texas oil patch that the main culprit for climate change is humanity's consumption of fossil fuels, she expected pushback."Aren't you scientists just in this for the money?" one older man asked — the latest insult after a string of anonymous emails asserting that she and other climatologists were corrupt liars. {Continue reading the story on LAtimes.com}

Bald eagles

2011-12-28T22:42:00.000-06:00

portrait for USA Today

2011-12-05T10:19:00.006-06:00

10/15/11 10:42:03 AM -- Portales, NM, U.S.A

-- Alan Tipps, a corporate pilot, has been laid off three times in the past four years,

and says that’s forced him to burn through what was in his 401(k) account. -- Photo by Geoffrey McAllister, for USA Today

Pastor Sex-Ed

2011-09-24T17:22:00.002-05:00

Recent favorites from a shoot for texastribune.org who was writing the story for the New York Times.

Lead Pastor Ed Ainsworth at Generations Church on Monday, Sept. 12, 2011, in Lubbock, Texas. Pastor (Sex-Ed) Ainsworth travels the country teaching abstinence-only sex education.
Read the related article HERE.

16' 6"

2011-05-23T11:42:00.002-05:00

Amarillo's Chase Wolfle celebrates after clearing 16 feet 6 inches in the Region I-5A pole vault Monday, May 02, 2011, during the Region I-5A and I-3A track state qualifying meet at Fuller Track Stadium in Lubbock, Texas. (Geoffrey McAllister/for the Amarillo Globe-News)

garden light

2010-07-28T08:08:00.002-05:00

I was recently assigned to photograph 5 gardens around town. My favorite was that of Dr. Lawrence Schovanec. Not only was the light the nicest when I visited, but I enjoyed how his garden seemed almost natural. Yet, he explained to me in great detail why he planted each plant in the location it was. To read the related article, click HERE.

hope

2010-07-23T10:37:00.003-05:00

Trey Lorimer, 4, eats a peanut butter cracker on his front porch, Monday, July 19, 2010, in Wolfforth. Trey, his two brothers, and his parents, have lived in this mobile home for four years, but will soon receive a new, donated trailer from St. Luke's Lubbock church. Members of the congregation provided man power as they filled over four dumpsters cleaning the property.

Monday, July 19, 2010. (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

April Ellibee, left, cleans her property along side members of St. Luke's Lubbock church Robin Wolfington and Jon Lamerson, Monday, July 19, 2010. St. Luke's Lubbock helping clean Ellibee's property and donating a new trailer for her and her family. Ellibee, her husband, and their three kids have lived in the trailer for four years.

Monday, July 19, 2010. (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

April Ellibee, center, is seen working along side members of St. Luke's Lubbock church from her kitchen window, Monday, July 19, 2010. St. Luke's Lubbock is cleaning the property and donating a new trailer for Ellibee and her family. Ellibee, her husband, and their three kids have lived in the trailer for four years.

Monday, July 19, 2010. (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

Read Kellie Bramlet's related story HERE.

Amanda's vigil

2010-06-18T10:22:00.000-05:00

Julie Valencia shows her support along side hundreds of friends and family during a candlelight vigil in memory of Amanda Moreno, who was found dead in her home Sunday afternoon. "Her little girls used to go to my daycare," Valencia said. Amanda's boyfriend has been charged for her murder.

Thursday, June 17,2010. (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

Sara Flores, left, and Rudy Redondo, right, light candles during a vigil in memory of Amanda Moreno who was found dead in her home Sunday, June 13th. Hundreds gathered to show their respects and share memories of Amanda. Amanda's boyfriend has been charged for her murder.

Thursday, June 17,2010. (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

Sundown's first

2010-05-14T17:25:00.003-05:00

Not only was this Sundown's first baseball playoff victory, this was their first baseball season - ever. They were in complete control of the Class 1A bi-district series against Ralls and will play against Fort Hancock (17-4-1), for the District 1-1A championship this weekend.

Read George Watson's related story: Homers, playoff wins are new for Barnes, Sundown

Ashley

2010-05-06T18:02:00.003-05:00

I recently spent a few afternoons with ten-year-old Ashley Taylor. She is a sweet little girl who was diagnosed with fetal alcohol syndrome five years ago. Her adoptive family and school are a great support for her. I put together a short video to accompany Sarah Nightingale's article.

Delwin

2010-04-23T11:56:00.003-05:00

After nearly 30 years serving in the Texas Legislature, 86-year-old Delwin Jones lost decisively to Charles Perry in April's Republican primary runoff in Texas House District 83. I spent the evening with both campaigns. Jones spent much of the evening alone or on his cell phone at River Smith's restaurant in Lubbock. Although I haven't lived in Texas long, I hear he had a successful career in the Legislature. You can only imagine the range of emotions going through his mind in the photo below.

Incumbent Delwin Jones waits for election results after early numbers indicate he trails challenger Charles Perry for State Representative District 83, Tuesday night at the River Smith's restaurant in Lubbock.

Tuesday, April 13, 2010. (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

View more election results and photos here.

Living in the Dust Bowl - for the USA Today

2010-04-09T09:45:00.004-05:00

April marks the 75th anniversary of the peak of the Dust Bowl, the unprecedented drought that ravaged the Depression-era economy and forced one of the biggest migrations in American history. I recently went to Muleshoe, Texas, with Brian Winter of the USA Today to help document their story. Here is a link to the article: On Plains, concern about another Dust Bowl. In the story you will also find a video piece I shot - they found some great depression-era photos to include in the piece. Here is a link to their photo gallery (Dust Bowl then and now). And below are some of the stills that I particularly liked.

Wildlife refuge manager Jude Smith explains how a fence post has been buried by tumbleweeds and soil over time at the Muleshoe National Wildlife Refuge, near Muleshoe, Texas. Smith believes a couple of fences are buried beneath this mound.

Jude Smith, wildlife refuge manager, describes how the levee built by the Works Projects Administration in the 1930s was designed to corral the water at the Muleshoe National Wildlife Refuge outside Muleshoe, Texas.

"The wind started blowing, and you could hardly see in front of your face," recounts James Wedel, 90, of the Dust Bowl storms in Muleshoe, Texas. "Static electricity was flying around. It was hard to breathe. I tell you, it was awful scary."

"It was rough old times," J.K. Adams, 93, says of the Dust Bowl. His family was able to survive by persuading the bank to suspend interest payments on their farm, and by using irrigation from a nearby well. "Daddy did a lot to keep the farm from blowing away." Adams and his wife, Margaret, live in Muleshoe, Texas.

"There's nothing quite like adversity to focus the mind," says Glen Williams, 93. He remembers how tough times during the Dust Bowl "brought out the best in people" and "trained them" to take better care of the land.

a Progressive Easter morning

2010-04-04T19:42:00.004-05:00

I spent Easter morning at the First Progressive Baptist Church in Lubbock along with about a hundred other enthusiastic worshippers. In the past 24 hours I've visited various churches in Lubbock for religious stories and I've really enjoyed seeing so many people of faith, regardless of their specific beliefs. While photographing this morning I was drawn to Sandra Rogers, her brightly colored clothing and her expressiveness.

Sandra Rogers, right, lifts her hands and sings praises along with the choir and congregation during the Easter service Sunday morning at the First Progressive Baptist Church in Lubbock.

Sunday, April 4, 2010. (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

a few awards

2010-03-29T16:49:00.012-06:00

Last week I learned I've won a few photo awards since December. Since NPPA (national press photographers association) is judged by a different newspaper staff each month, it often takes a while for the awards to be published. Our newspaper competes in Region 8 along with newspapers of all sizes from Louisiana, New Mexico, and Texas.

These are the NPPA awards I recently won:
- First Place, Spot News, December 2009, Region 8 (photo below)
- Third Place, Sports, December 2009, Region 8
- Third Place, Illustration, December 2009, Region 8
- Third Place, Individual Audio Slideshow, December 2009, Region 8
- First Place, Sports, February 2010, Region 8

On Saturday I won four awards in the Texas Associated Press Managing Editors' annual contest (TAPME), based on work from 2009. Since we have a circulation of almost 50,000, our newspaper is Class AAA, meaning it competes with papers with a circulation of 30,000 to 124,999.

These are the TAPME awards I received:
- First Place, Feature Photography
- First Place, Best Photo Gallery
- Second Place, Photojournalism (news)
- Third Place, Best Video over 1-minute

I was also awarded the 2010 Morris Journalism Excellence Award in photography. This was an award for the top photographer in the company's 44 newspapers. It was the only award that included a bonus on my paycheck, so that was great :).
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[I don't usually post photos from spot news tragedies, but since this photo was awarded first place in NPPA's December Region 8 contest, I felt it was okay for this post.]

Clothing lay in the street where a female pedestrian was struck and killed by a vehicle driving north on Quaker just inside Loop 289 Friday afternoon in Lubbock. Benjamin Rodriguez, right, stands along side a Lubbock police car as he's being questioned. Friday, December 11, 2009. (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

tech spring practice

2010-03-24T18:06:00.006-06:00

Texas Tech senior wide receiver Lyle Leong, right, reaches for a pass while being defended by sophomore defensive back Will Ford during practice Monday at Jones AT&T Stadium. Monday was the first day of Spring practice.

Monday, March 22, 2010. (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

Texas Tech quarterbacks (from left) Steven Sheffield, Jacob Karam, and Taylor Potts look to throw during drills Monday at Jones AT&T Stadium. Monday was the first day of Spring practice.

Read Don Williams' related article: Changes evident as Red Raiders open spring football
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makin' waves

2010-03-16T00:02:00.003-06:00

A pickup truck splashes through a flood stream running across Quaker Avenue near 114th Street Monday afternoon in Lubbock. Rain and snow fell across the area leaving more than 1.7 inches of precipitation.

Monday, March 15, 2010. (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

Smyer dethrones state champs

2010-02-28T01:01:00.009-06:00

The Smyer Lady Cats celebrate their 45-43 upset victory over defending state champs Sudan after the Region I-1A Division I girls basketball championship game at the Texan Dome in Levelland. Sudan cut a 12-point fourth quarter deficit to two points, but was unable to score in the final seconds.

Saturday, Feb. 27, 2010 (Photo by Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)
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For a story and more game photos go HERE.

ballpark birds

2010-02-26T02:20:00.002-06:00

During Texas Tech's 12-8 victory over Bethune-Cookman I couldn't help but notice the hundreds of birds swarming around Dan Law Field. I guess spring is on its way.

For actual baseball game photos go HERE.

Star Wars @ String Wars

2010-02-03T02:16:00.006-06:00

With glow sticks on their bows, the Lubbock High School Orchestra performs music from the movie Star Wars during String Wars, the Lubbock Independent School District 25th annual string fling, Tuesday night at the Lubbock Civic Center Auditorium.

Tuesday, Feb. 02, 2010 (Photo by Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)
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View more photos or read the related article HERE.

Mustangs over Lady Plainsmen

2010-02-02T23:59:00.003-06:00

Coronado's Suzzy Dimba, right, scores despite the tall defense of Monterey's 6-foot-4 Haley Schneider during their game Tuesday night at Monterey. Coronado won 56-51.

Tuesday, Feb. 02, 2010 (Photo by Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)
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Read the related article and view more game photos HERE.

recalling service in Haiti

2010-01-27T12:10:00.003-06:00

Reporter Kellie Bramlet and I recently did a story about a local Lubbock couple and their memories from serving over 35 years as missionaries in Haiti and other parts of the Caribbean. Read the article HERE.

tex over tech (2OT)

2010-01-19T14:17:00.003-06:00

Texas Tech's Lady Raider basketball team led no. 19 Texas most of the game, until it counted. Texas rallied to take regulation into OT. And w/ 0:22 left in the first OT Tech led by 6 points. After a quick basket and two consecutive steals Texas took the game into 2OT where thy won 95-90. Exciting game - tough loss.
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View more game photos & read David Just's story: HERE.

singing praises

2010-01-16T00:10:00.005-06:00

Amanda Moore of the First Baptist Church in Lubbock, left, sings praises with the audience as The Justin Cofield Band performs Friday night during the Ignite Student Conference at the City Bank Auditorium. Over 2,300 tickets were sold to this weekend's youth religious conference in Lubbock.
Friday, Jan. 15, 2010 (Photo by Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

icy mix

2009-12-26T20:20:00.004-06:00

Lubbock received a few inches of snow early Christmas eve. Having lived in the midwest and Utah all my life, a few inches of snow isn't that big a deal. But here its hard to spot a snow plow or a truck de-icing the roads; which makes for LOTS of stuck cars, sliding cars, and accidents. Interestingly enough, this suburban I photographed below slid off the road due to the ice, but was stuck in inches of mud beneath the snow.
Left: Joe Davila of Lubbock waits in his car for a tow truck after getting stuck on the Marsha Sharp Freeway, Thursday morning in Lubbock.
Right: Carla Baldespino, 12, right, pushes her brother Eric, 6, down a snowy hill at Mae Simmons Park, Thursday morning in Lubbock. Carla said she was very excited for the possibility of a snowy Christmas.

Adam Nguyen, right, and his wife Marie wait Thursday at the Lubbock International Airport, hoping to board a flight to Georgia. Many flights were delayed or canceled Thursday due to ice, wind, and snow.

Ryan Harvey motions to his uncle Raymond Harvey to begin moving his truck to tow his father Roger from the side of Regis Street near the Lubbock Airport, Thursday afternoon. Thursday, Dec. 24, 2009 (Photo by Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

gang pray-ers

2009-12-25T20:16:00.000-06:00

Members of the Our Lady of Guadalupe motorcycle group pray for the Salinas family after delivering presents and singing Christmas carols during one of their visits Saturday morning in Lubbock. The group delivered presents and sang Christmas carols to over 15 needy families throughout Lubbock. Saturday, Dec. 19, 2009 (Photo by Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

"Hello," Sloth.

2009-12-22T11:15:00.004-06:00

The fam had a great time this week in Dallas visiting the Dallas Aquarium and the JFK Museum, among other things. It was our first family trip to the big D since moving to Lubbock over a year ago. The aquarium was great, way above expectations! And the museum was very thought provoking. It left us with somber feelings as we thought of the horrible events that took place in that building and on that street.

couple exciting games

2009-12-15T23:02:00.003-06:00

In the last week I've photographed a few really entertaining high school basketball games. The latest was of in-town rivals, Lubbock Monterey @ Lubbock Coronado. Coronado had a large lead in the first half that quickly disappeared in the second. The game ended in heartbreaking fashion when a non-shooting foul was called with less than 2 seconds left in the game and the score was tied at 68. Monterey got to shoot foul shots, 1 and 1. They made the first and won 69-68.

Monterey's Mikeah Mills, left, Kellyn Schneider and Sarah Radloff celebrate with their team as Coronado's Hailee Roye, right, looks at the scoreboard after missing a desperation shot at the buzzer Monday night in Coronado's gym. Monterey defeated Coronado, 69-68.

Left: Monterey's Haley Schneider, left, shoots over Coronado's Devin Griffin during their game Monday at Coronado. Schneider scored 14 points and grabbed 14 rebounds in Monterey's 69-68 win.
Right: Monterey's Toni Armstrong, left, and Coronado's Hailee Roye battle for a loose ball during Monterey's 69-68 win on Tuesday.
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A week ago I covered the championship game of the Gene Messer Shootout, a West Texas high school tournament. The home team, Lubbock Coronado, was trailing by 10 at the half but fought back for an exciting finish.

Left: Coronado's Quay Johnson, left, scores in front of Ponder's Kaleb Broadstreet after making a steal during the fourth quarter of the championship game of the Gene Messer Shootout Saturday at Frenship. Coronado won 55-50.

Coronado's Quay Johnson, center, dribbles between Ponder's Scott Gregg, left, and Kaleb Broadstreet, during the final minutes of the championship game of the Gene Messer Shootout Saturday at Frenship. Coronado won 55-50.

Our Lady of Guadalupe

2009-12-08T12:16:00.003-06:00

Hundreds of Catholic faithful walk down Avenue L in the Diocese of Lubbock Guadalupe Procession Sunday afternoon in Lubbock. The celebration was in honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe and was led by Lubbock Bishop Placido Rodriguez.

Sunday, December 6, 2009. (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)
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read Matthew McGowan's related story: Spiritual Journey: March through South Lubbock honors Our Lady of Guadalupe

Lady Raiders top Lobos

2009-12-05T23:11:00.000-06:00

Left photo: New Mexico's Valerie Kast, center, blocks a shot from Texas Tech's Ashlee Roberson, left, along side teammate Sara Halasz, right, during the second half of their game at United Spirit Arena, Saturday, December 5, 2009. Texas Tech defeated New Mexico 65-55. (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

Right photo: Texas Tech's Kierra Mallard, center, and Mary Bokenkamp, right, dive to the floor and steal the ball from New Mexico's Valerie Kast during the first half of their game at United Spirit Arena, Saturday, December 5, 2009. Texas Tech defeated New Mexico 65-55. (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)
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read more on the Texas Tech Lady Raiders HERE.

Texas Tech upsets no. 10 Washington in OT

2009-12-04T08:09:00.002-06:00

The AP called me Thursday morning looking for a shooter for the Texas Tech v Washington game. I'm glad I was available because it was a fun game to shoot. One of my favorite images has to be the last in this slideshow of Betty Doris LaRoe, a tech fan, taunting UW as they leave the court after the first half.

going blind

2009-11-30T22:55:00.004-06:00

I spent Wednesday afternoon with eleven-year-old Chad Lance of Dickens, Texas. Usually when you drive through Dickens (population 332) you think of TCS Ponderosa Grocery & Deli on Highway 82, voted among the top 50 barbecue joints in Texas; but now I will think of this inspirational boy. Although he has lost complete use of his left eye, and will likely soon lose sight in his right, Chad is an upbeat kid who loves his family and still keeps up with his school work and chores around the house. Read Joe Gulick's story - Child losing sight fights Stickler Syndrome bravely

22 points in less than 3 minutes = amazing comeback!

2009-11-29T22:35:00.001-06:00

CANYON — All season, New Deal head coach Ron Mayo said there was something different about this year’s team.

On Friday night, the No. 5 Lions had to reach deep down to find that something different. Once they did, it turned into one of the greatest comebacks of the season.
New Deal turned two fourth-quarter fumbles by Sunray into touchdowns, and the Lions scored 22 unanswered points in the final 7:12 of the game for a 32-28 victory in a Class 1A Division II regional semifinal at Kimbrough Memorial Stadium... (continue reading George Watson's story - Fourth-quarter rally sends New Deal to next round)

Springlake-Earth goes down to defending state champs

2009-11-29T22:32:00.000-06:00

CANYON — During its outstanding playoff run, Springlake-Earth knew not to panic when it got behind.

But getting down to a team that knows what to do with a lead is a different story. Stratford, the defending Class 1A Division II state champion, used its physical offensive line to drive a pounding running game, ending the Wolverines’ season in a 56-20 victory Friday afternoon at Kimbrough Memorial Stadium... (continue reading George Watson's story, Stratford ends Wolverines’ playoff run)

origin of black friday

2009-11-27T22:24:00.001-06:00

Black Friday as a term has been used in multiple contexts, going back to the nineteenth century, where it was associated with a financial crisis in 1869. The earliest uses of "Black Friday" to mean the day close to Thanksgiving come from or reference Philadelphia and refer to the heavy traffic on that day. The earliest known reference to "Black Friday" (in this sense), found by Bonnie Taylor-Blake of the American Dialect Society, refers to Black Friday 1965 and makes the Philadelphia origin explicit:

JANUARY 1966 -- "Black Friday" is the name which the Philadelphia Police Department has given to the Friday following Thanksgiving Day. It is not a term of endearment to them. "Black Friday" officially opens the Christmas shopping season in center city, and it usually brings massive traffic jams and over-crowded sidewalks as the downtown stores are mobbed from opening to closing.[13]

The term Black Friday began to get wider exposure around 1975, as shown by two newspaper articles from November 29, 1975, both datelined Philadelphia. The first reference is in an article entitled "Army vs. Navy: A Dimming Splendor," in The New York Times:

Philadelphia police and bus drivers call it "Black Friday" - that day each year between Thanksgiving Day and the Army–Navy Game. It is the busiest shopping and traffic day of the year in the Bicentennial City as the Christmas list is checked off and the Eastern college football season nears conclusion. [thanks wikipedia]
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Stores advertise their day-after Thanksgiving sales as shoppers search for the best deals at South Plains Mall, Friday morning in Lubbock. Many stores, like Pac-Sun, tried to lure shoppers in with windows full of advertisements.
(Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

praying for your enemies

2009-11-23T17:24:00.008-06:00

I have to say, I was very impressed with Texas Tech's offensive line Saturday when they played Oklahoma. Yes, they played great, but when I saw them kneel and pray for an Oklahoma defender who was being cared for by his team's trainers, I was proud to be in Lubbock.
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See more photos and read the related stories regarding Tech's victory over Oklahoma - HERE

Red Raiders over Northwestern State

2009-11-20T17:17:00.002-06:00

[Left photo] Texas Tech's Nick Okorie is fouled by Northwestern State's Cory Dixon, left, while driving to the basket during the first half of their game, Thursday night at United Spirit Arena. Texas Tech won 94-75.

Thursday, November 19, 2009 (Photo by Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)
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read the related story - Knight stresses defense, and it seems to be getting through

Lady Plainsmen notch first win

2009-11-18T17:09:00.003-06:00

Swinging elbows, diving for possession, it's that time of year again - girls high school basketball.

Lubbock Monterey's Kristyn Wilson, left, and Toni Armstrong, right, swarm Frenship's MaKenna Chancellor, center, during their game Tuesday night at Monterey. Monterey defeated Frenship 54-46.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009 (Photo by Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

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read the related story - Lady Plainsmen notch first win of year.

Happy Who Endure

2009-11-16T11:47:00.012-06:00

On July 1st of this year I was assigned to photograph Maria Gil and her daughter for a preview story about a donation drive at Family Promise, a homeless shelter where they were staying. Being relatively new to Lubbock, I had never heard of Family Promise, so I was interested to learn what it was: an interfaith volunteer organization that supports a few homeless families at a time and helps them get back on their feet by providing shelter, food, daycare, and transportation as they work to save money. Right away I knew there was a deeper story to be told. I chatted with Maria for a bit and was impressed with her positive attitude and hope. I told her I wanted to tell her story and asked if she would let me be a fly on the wall as she lived at Family Promise and went through the process of finding a place to live. That night I began shadowing her. On Sunday, the 5th of July, she was in tears as she called to tell me she was moving out. It was then that her story really began. For six weeks Elliott and I shadowed her as she struggled with homelessness. Below is the multimedia that went along with Elliott Blackburn's story - Happy Who Endure (it's a great story!).

I've been in touch with Maria many times since working on the story. Her and Angelina seem to be doing well. Angelina enjoys her mornings at preschool and Maria has been attending Bible study. There spirits are up. I know she was glad to have the story (finally) run because she kept saying how she hopes it gives strength to others who may be in a similar situation.

Cowboys defense too much for Red Raiders

2009-11-15T22:43:00.005-06:00

The Oklahoma State Cowboys defense was locked in Saturday night as they defeated Texas Tech 24-17 at Boone Pickens Stadium in Stillwater, Oklahoma. It seemed like Perrish Cox swatted away or intercepted dozens of passes from outstretched Red Raider fingers. I'm sure Tech's quarterback uncertainties didn't help either. Check out RedRaiders.com for more game stats & photos.

Oklahoma State's Patrick Lavine celebrates after returning an interception for a touchdown against Texas Tech during the second half of their game Saturday, Nov, 14, 2009 at Boone Pickens Stadium in Stillwater, Oklahoma. (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

Cute kid, but he needs a little work on his "S".
Oklahoma State's Perrish Cox, left, deflects a pass in the end zone intended for Texas Tech's Tramain Swindall, right, during the first half of their game Saturday, Nov, 14, 2009 at Boone Pickens Stadium in Stillwater, Oklahoma. (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

I think this accurately reflects the love Tech fans have for the Cowboys.

meet James Brigham McAllister

2009-11-01T22:59:00.002-06:00

born October 30, 2009 in Lubbock, TX
7 pounds, 8 ounces

It was an amazing feeling to watch this little guy come into the world. It's an honor being his dad.

Linda's 2nd battle

2009-10-29T12:10:00.000-06:00

Linda Wallace turned to her family, her friends and her faith when she was first treated for breast cancer.

"I got the all clear," Wallace said. But "they told me it could come back in 10 to 15 years."

Just three years later, the Lubbock grandmother relied on her family's support again when she discovered she would face the life-threatening disease a second time... (Continue reading Sarah Nightingale's story: Grandmother faces her second battle against breast cancer)

A&M over Tech 52-30

2009-10-28T12:12:00.004-06:00

To my great disappointment, Texas Tech quarterback Steven Sheffield was injured during their game in Lincoln, NB last week. Taylor Potts returned to his starting position, but after a poor performance was replaced by third-string quarterback Seth Doege.

Texas Tech's Sam Fehoko, center, performs the Haka dance prior to Saturday's game against Texas A&M, Saturday, Oct, 24, 2009 at Jones AT&T Stadium in Lubbock, Texas. (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

Texas Tech's Harrison Jeffers, center, fumbles the ball as he jumps into Texas A&M's Kyle Mangan, right, and Garrick Williams, bottom during the second half of their game Saturday, Oct, 24, 2009 at Jones AT&T Stadium in Lubbock, Texas. Tech lost 52-30. (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

Texas Tech quarterback Taylor Potts walks off the field after failing to convert on 4th and 1 in the second quarter against Texas A&M Saturday, Oct, 24, 2009 at Jones AT&T Stadium in Lubbock, Texas. After a poor performance, Potts was replaced by third string quarterback Seth Doege. (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

Texas Tech's Marlon Williams, left, Stefan Loucks, right, and Britton Barbee, bottom, force Texas A&M's Ryan Tannehill to fumble during the first half of their game Saturday, Oct, 24, 2009 at Jones AT&T Stadium in Lubbock, Texas. (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

Texas Tech fans file into section 113, one of the new sections at Jones AT&T Stadium, before Tech's game against Texas A&M Saturday, Oct, 24, 2009 at Jones AT&T Stadium in Lubbock, Texas. (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

pumpkin trail

2009-10-23T12:32:00.001-05:00

The first ever Lubbock Pumpkin Trail event kicked off Thursday night at the Lubbock Memorial Arboretum where hundreds of lit Jack-O-Lanterns were on display. The event will continue through the 24th and is free to the public. Thursday, October 22, 2009 (Photo by Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

Shef serves up a can to K-State

2009-10-15T17:42:00.005-05:00

Texas Tech quarterback Steven Sheffield threw for 490 yards and 7 touchdowns during his first collegiate start Saturday, October 10, against Kansas State. Sheffield set a Texas Tech record for most yards in a single half.

Texas Tech's Tramain Swindall catches a short pass over the middle ... yadda yadda yadda... 52-yards later he scores a touchdown with the help of a few key blocks, Saturday against Kansas State. (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

Texas Tech quarterback Steven Sheffield throws deep down the sidelines to receiver Jacoby Franks for a 72-yard touchdown, Saturday against Kansas State. (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

George W.

2009-10-12T00:57:00.001-05:00

Former president George W. Bush spoke recently at a Lubbock Christian University fundraiser and I was contracted to photograph the event. He's a pretty entertaining speaker - lots of facial expressions and hand gestures. I think one of the funniest moments of his address was when he described going for a walk with his dog for the first time after his presidency and having to pick up his poop - he said, "that's when I knew things had changed."

backup sparks Tech over New Mexico

2009-10-06T11:28:00.002-05:00

With less than two minutes left in the first half and the score tied at 7 against New Mexico, backup quarterback Steven Sheffield entered the game to replace injured QB Taylor Potts. Sheffield blitzed down field to score before the end of the half and carried the Red Raiders to a 48-28 win in convincing fashion.

Potts over Rice

2009-09-14T08:28:00.003-05:00

Texas Tech wide receiver Lyle Leong Jr. hauls in one of 7 touchdowns thrown by quarterback Taylor Potts Saturday night as Texas Tech defeated Rice 55-10.

Saturday, September 12, 2009 (Photo by Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)
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for more stats and photos visit redraiders.com or click HERE.

fancy dancin'

2009-09-13T08:22:00.000-05:00

this boy's awesome - so into his dancing. and he seemed to be picking up on the younger ladies as he danced (see back right).

Five-year-old Cody Largo from Window Rock, Ariz., left, dances during a Pow-Wow Saturday at the National Cowboy Symposium and Celebration at the Lubbock Memorial Civic Center.

Saturday, September 12, 2009 (Photo by Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

inspirational upset

2009-09-12T08:11:00.004-05:00

Lubbock High upset Midland Lee 25-23 Friday night at Lowrey Field and this was the photo that most caught my attention. Sometime in the first half there was a fumble and Lubbock High's Jonathan Trevino scrambled through the legs of a couple players to come up with a huge recovery for his team. It was only as I looked back at the photos to tag and add audio for future captions that I noticed Trevino had only one hand. Inspirational.

Lubbock High's Jonathan Trevino, center, celebrates after recovering a fumble against Midland Lee during the first half, Friday at Lowrey Field. Lubbock High upset Midland Lee 25-23.

Friday, September 11, 2009 (Photo by Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)
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for additional stats and photos visit lonestarvaristy.com or click HERE

tasting freedom

2009-09-11T08:03:00.000-05:00

Seven-year-old Mallory Deleon runs through a field of American flags with friends Thursday evening at Kastman Park in Lubbock. Deleon was one of many helpers who set up the flags earlier in the day. American State Bank, the city of Lubbock and the Lubbock Independent School District have teamed together for the seventh year to present the American flag field as "First Responders Day."
Thursday, September 10, 2009 (Photo by Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

sacked eye to eye

2009-08-29T09:40:00.005-05:00

Coronado defensive end Taylor Swift, bottom, sacks El Paso Franklin quarterback Joshua Valenzuela, top, during the second quarter Friday night at Lowrey Field. Friday, August 28, 2009 (Photo by Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

Football season has begun.

heart sanctuary

2009-07-28T06:54:00.003-05:00

Leann Landmesser, owner of Le’Land Heart Sanctuary, left, plays with Winnie the Pooh, a sharpay lab, Monday afternoon. Winnie the Pooh is one of about 60 dogs Landmesser has been preparing for adoption at Le'Land Heart Sanctuary, just outside of Lubbock. Winnie was found in a Lubbock landfill with a bullet in her stomach. (Photo by Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

Kaidyn Steward, 6, plays with a dog along side her mother Ashlie Steward, top, Monday afternoon at Le'Land Heart Sanctuary, just outside of Lubbock. The Stewards have volunteered a few days at the sanctuary and are deciding which dog they want to adopt. (Photo by Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

Ashlie Steward, center, and her children Trystan, left, 3, and Kaidyn, right, 6, play with dogs from the Le'Land Heart Sanctuary, just outside of Lubbock, Monday afternoon. The Stewards have volunteered a few days at the sanctuary and are deciding which dog they want to adopt. (Photo by Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

Alberto Gonzales

2009-07-23T23:37:00.001-05:00

Alberto Gonzales, the 80th Attorney General of the United States, leaves an interview with the Avalanche-Journal for another interview with local media Thursday, July 23, 2009, at Texas Tech University. Gonzales was hired by Texas Tech as a guest lecturer and a political science professor. (Photo by Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)
Alberto Gonzales, the 80th Attorney General of the United States, answers questions from the Avalanche-Journal Thursday, July 23, 2009, at Texas Tech University. (Photo by Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)
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Although Alberto Gonzales looks pleasant in these photos, that is not the vibe we felt during the interview. At the end, all of us (the reporter, videographer, and I) thought he wasn't very nice and had a certain attitude about him. Anyway, I wasn't impressed. But he did say some interesting things in the interview - especially when he thought he and the Bush administration had "made mistakes".

speed self-promoting

2009-07-15T12:18:00.002-05:00

Danny Soliz of Workforce Solutions, right, keeps an eye on his stop watch as participants of the Lubbock Chamber mega-marketing event share their 90 second self promotions with each other at the Chamber of Commerce, Tuesday morning. Participants were paired up for three minutes to share a 90 second self promotion before changing places. Tuesday, July 14, 2009 (Photo by Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

city adjustments

2009-07-09T18:08:00.005-05:00

City budget proposals and bond elections are likely to bring change to Lubbock. The question - who's paying for it? Read Elliott Blackburn's related stories: City Council considers citizen oversight in its effort to push bond packages & Fees Upped: City residents would pay higher fees, but same taxes under newly proposed budget
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A youth soccer game takes place feet from a sprinkler head measuring six inches in diameter, bottom right, Saturday at Berl Huffman Athletic Complex. Parents have voiced concerns that many of the field's conditions are unsafe. Improved soccer facilities are one of the items on a November bond election. Early estimates put the full cost of soccer improvements at $12.3 million. May 23, 2009 (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

Mammie White, left, and Rickey Shaw, center, wait for Greg Jackson, right, as he requests a birth certificate for his daughter, Wednesday at the City of Lubbock Health Department. The current proposed budget will eliminate six positions at the department. Wednesday, July 08, 2009 (Photo by Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

Lubbock firefighter Rodney Brown blows leaves from the engine garage at Fire Station #6, Monday afternoon. The city could add three new fire stations at $2.5 million a piece as part of a $61 million bond package in November. Monday, July 06, 2009 (Photo by Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

Lubbock firefighters Rodney Brown, left, and Chad Dawkins dry fire engine 6 at Fire Station #6, Monday afternoon. The city could add three new fire stations at $2.5 million a piece as part of a $61 million bond package in November. Monday, July 06, 2009 (Photo by Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

making doctors

2009-07-07T17:02:00.000-05:00

I followed a group of elementary-aged science explorers last week as they learned how science is used in a hospital setting. Talk about hands-on learning. I would've loved this at their age.

Eleven-year-old Marcus Johnson studies the breathing pattern of a mannequin as he and other campers of Science Exploration Academy Camp learn in the School of Nursing Simulation Center at the Texas Tech Health Science Center, Tuesday morning. The camp offers youth an opportunity to learn about all types of science in real life situations. Tuesday, June 30, 2009 (Photo by Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

cool [girls] don't look back ...

2009-06-22T19:42:00.004-05:00

Nobody was injured in this cement truck accident, so I felt it okay to poke fun at this photo I snapped. If anyone's seen Andy Samberg and Will Ferrell's short video, "Cool Guys Don't Look at Explosions", you'll understand.

1 of 10 left in Overton Park

2009-06-18T16:50:00.005-05:00

Overton Park used to be known as the Tech Ghetto. Now there are only 10 original houses in the community as it continues to go through a major face lift. I spent an afternoon with the Johnson Family from Guyana.

In a white house on Mac Davis Lane, Winston Edward Johnson has made his best memories.

He raised his granddaughter here. He can easily conjure images of her racing back and forth from door to door, her spinning to Caribbean music in the living room with the table pushed aside to yield a makeshift dance floor.

It brings a smile to the 59-year-old's face. So much time has passed; she's now 13.

He and others in this once-blighted neighborhood also have plenty of memories they never wished to make.

"It was like a war zone," said Dennis Vasquez, 47. "One night, I saw something glowing," he said, pointing down the block.

A man had set his ex's clothes ablaze.

"Across there," he said, pointing straight ahead, "a guy beat up his wife. He was beating her to a bloody mess."

Today, the discord consists of construction equipment rumbles and hammer strikes... (read more of Marlena Hartz' story: Last Houses Standing)

Rural USA longs for broadband - for USA TODAY

2009-06-09T00:08:00.002-05:00

Three weeks ago I did an assignment for the USA Today for their article "Rural USA longs for broadband". I spent the morning with third-generation peanut farmer Jeff Roper of Plains, Texas. I spent the afternoon in neighboring Morton, Texas documenting the town and specifically focusing on the library that offers free wi-fi. Check out the usatoday link and watch the audio slideshow they produced from the photos and audio I collected. Below are some photos from the two locations.

Third-generation peanut farmer Jeff Roper, Plains, TX

Wi-fi in Morton, TX

in the air for airshow preview photos

2009-06-06T11:10:00.004-05:00

One of three replica WWII Japanese "Kate" torpedo bombers rehearse their flying routine before Saturday's air show at Slaton Airport. The original bomber was the standard torpedo bomber of the Imperial Japanese Navy for much of World War II.
Friday, June 05, 2009(Photo by Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

Paratroopers from the World War II Airborne Demonstration Team mass exit a C47 airplane at 1,000 feet Friday at Slaton Airport. The team will perform during today's air show at Slaton Airport. Friday, June 05, 2009 (Photo by Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

Billy Parker, center, chats with visitors along side his replica WWII Japanese "Kate" torpedo bomber Friday at Slaton Airport. Parker rehearsed aerial maneuvers Friday in preparation for Saturday's air show at Slaton Airport. Friday, June 05, 2009
(Photo by Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)
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Friday afternoon I was a passenger in a 1958 T-34A airplane and a replica Japanese Nakajima B5N "Kate" torpedo bomber (both pictured below). Originally, I was only going to ride in the T-34A airplane but shortly after takeoff the pilot noticed some "engine troubles" and we decided to land and trade planes.
The following are some additional detail shots:

first day swim

2009-06-03T06:30:00.000-05:00

Ten-year-old Mercedes Hall, bottom, rushes down the water slide at Mae Simmons Pool Tuesday afternoon. Tuesday was the first day public pools in Lubbock were open. Tuesday, June 02, 2009 (Photo by Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

Nine-year-old CJ Hawthorne, right, flows down the water slide at Mae Simmons Pool Tuesday afternoon. Tuesday was the first day public pools in Lubbock were open. Tuesday, June 02, 2009 (Photo by Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

Emotional ending for Lockney's Class of 2009

2009-06-02T00:40:00.004-05:00

Lockney High graduates Emily Prayor and Lindsie Moerbe, left, embrace outside the charred remains of part of their high school, after their graduation ceremony Friday evening in Lockney. (Photo by Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

Lockney High graduates throw their caps in the air outside the charred remains of a part of their high school, after their graduation ceremony Friday evening in Lockney. (Photo by Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

There was a mixture of emotions Friday evening after Lockney High's graduation ceremony. When the seniors gathered outside the section of their high school that was burned by arson earlier this year big hugs were shared w/ smiles and tears. It was a tough year for Lockney High; congratulations for coming out stronger.

region i-3a&5a track championships

2009-05-28T00:13:00.002-05:00

(caption from 1st photo in above gallery: Midland Greenwood's Joshua Cook, center, yells as he wins the Region I-3A 4x200 meter championship in front of Abilene Wylie, left, and Lubbock Estacado, right, Saturday at Fuller Track in Lubbock. They finished with a time of 1:29.15.
May 23, 2009 (Geoffrey McAllister/for the Reporter-Telegram))

Korean War veteran Bob Bland remembers

2009-05-25T00:35:00.002-05:00

Korean War veteran Bob Bland reads the names of those who have served in American wars at the Lubbock Area Veterans War Memorial Thursday, May 21, 2009. Bland is the current commander of the VFW Post 2466 in Lubbock.

May 21, 2009 (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)
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1st Sgt. Robert Nelson Bland - a career Marine and combat veteran of the Korean War - essentially observes Memorial Day all year long.

"It is having the privilege of honoring our fallen veterans," he said of the official Memorial Day event observed by the nation.

But as a volunteer in the American Legion, he continues a celebration of veterans' service by commanding the gripping 21-gun salute at funerals held for veterans across the South Plains in every month of every year.

Bland volunteered for service in the Marine Corps June 30, 1947, less than two years after World War II ended.

"I did a three-year cruise in the Marine Corps, and was released on the 29th of June in 1950, but at that time the Korean War had already been in progress for about four days.

"At midnight of the day I received my discharge, all discharges were frozen, and all Marines were held on active duty."... (Continue reading Ray Westbrook's story: Korea veteran still serving his country)

LCU headed to NAIA World Series ranked no. 1

2009-05-19T10:27:00.002-05:00

It was an exciting week for Lubbock Christian University baseball as they competed in and won the NAIA Regional tournament and are headed to the NAIA World Series as the number 1 ranked team in the country. I got to cover a few games - here are some of my favorite tenths of a second.

A-J Outdoors: Caprock Canyon

2009-05-01T15:14:00.013-05:00

We've recently begun an A-J Outdoors series. Check out the first video above. The article will be in tomorrow's Avalanche-Journal.

A-J Outdoors reporter Logan Carver hikes along the Haynes Ridge Overlook Trail on his way to Fern Cave at Caprock Canyon State Park earlier last month.

Wednesday, April 02, 2009 (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

Peanut Farming

2009-04-28T23:36:00.002-05:00

Glen Martin, left, and John Dyke, connect an eight-row lister to a tractor before preparing a 30-acre peanut field on Martin & Sons Farm Monday, April 6, 2009, near Brownfield, Texas. Peanuts make up about 10% of the farm's 4,500 acres. The battered peanut industry is involved in a lobbying and public relations campaign in Washington, a delicate strategy to help the industry rebound after the salmonella outbreak linked to the Peanut Corp. of America. -- AP photo/Geoffrey McAllister

I recently did an assignment for the associated press highlighting a peanut farm in Brownfield, Texas. Read NPR's article, THE INFLUENCE GAME: Peanut industry wants help too to see more photos and read the accompanying article.

WWII soldier’s remains laid to rest after 64 years

2009-04-27T19:23:00.000-05:00

The B-24 bomber in which Jimmie Doyle was flying was shot down over the island nation of Palau in September 1944. His remains were laid to rest Saturday afternoon in Lamesa after recently being discovered. GQ magazine wrote a very interesting article entitled: Leave No Man Behind.

TT Red & Black

2009-04-19T18:28:00.000-05:00

Texas Tech's Detron Lewis catches a touchdown pass from sophomore quarterback Steven Sheffield over defensive back Brent Nickerson during the Red & Black spring practice game Saturday, April 18, at Jones AT&T Stadium.

Marble-sized hail

2009-04-18T18:53:00.001-05:00

Hail covers the corner of 8th Street and Avenue L during a thunderstorm in Lubbock Thursday afternoon. Heavy rain and hail were reported in various locations throughout the region.

April 16, 2009 (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

Just wish my car hadn't been parked across the street ... 20+ dents later...

All-City basketball

2009-04-13T01:06:00.006-05:00

gotta love the intro music!! :)

Over the past week I've been photographing and working on this video of the Avalanche-Journal All-City basketball teams. Of the 12 portraits, the below photograph of Krista Ford if my favorite.

Golf celebration - funny

2009-04-13T00:46:00.003-05:00

Cathy Tate yells at the ball (top) and then rolls on her back in celebration as her son, Amarillo High's Sean Tate, left, sinks a long par putt on the 8th hole Tuesday afternoon during a 2-5A district tournament at Meadowbrook Golf Course.

April 07, 2009 (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

Cold in Texas

2009-04-08T00:23:00.005-05:00

In most corners of the country this kind of weather is no big deal - but in west texas in March it caught a few people off guard. Having experienced cold midwest winters and rocky mountain winters, I'm not sure I've ever felt such strong winds mixed with snow as I did when photographing this particular morning... or maybe having spent 5 of my last 6 winters in warm weather locations (Rio de Janeiro, Phoenix, and Texas) has made me soft.

Coach Hays honored

2009-03-24T00:09:00.002-06:00

Coach Hays, former baseball coach of both Texas Tech and Lubbock Christian University, was honored Monday evening prior to the baseball game between the two teams. His jersey #27 was retired from both schools. - - Texas Tech won the game 4-3. Visit THIS LINK for an article and video regarding this event.

Families displaced in apartment fire

2009-03-18T10:41:00.001-06:00

LUBBOCK - A fire damaged five homes Tuesday in an apartment complex near the Marsha Sharp Freeway and Quaker Avenue, injuring one firefighter and displacing several families.

The fire broke out just after 6 p.m. at the Raleigh Place Condos in the 4400 block of 21st Street, where it burned the outside of the building as well as attic space.

No residents were injured, but one firefighter was treated by EMS after a piece of sheetrock fell on his head. Fire officials said the injury was not serious.

Chris Angerer, deputy chief with the Lubbock Fire Department, said investigators have yet to determine the cause of the blaze...(Continue reading Josh Hull's story: Fire damages Raleigh Place Condos, displaces families)

That pitcher shot

2009-03-17T22:24:00.003-06:00

Roosevelt's comeback victory 5-4 was a great way to start my 2009 high school baseball coverage. I've seen a few renditions of a pitcher photograph where the ball is in focus and the pitcher is out of focus in the background. I attempted that photo during today's game - the hardest part was composing the pitcher in the background after getting the focus. Nice win Roosevelt!

Holi in Texas

2009-03-08T02:09:00.000-06:00

Shallow victory & defeat

2009-03-01T23:08:00.002-06:00

Texas Class 2A regional semi-final Shallowater vs Wall.

Texas Class 2A regional championship Shallowater vs Bowie.

Shallowater's girls basketball team competed in the Texas class 2A regional semi-finals and championship this past weekend in Midland. From my perspective, they played 7 great quarters and 1 lousy one. Unfortunately for them, their lousy quarter came at the beginning of the championship game against Bowie. In the fourth quarter they cut their 22 point half-time deficit to 10, but in the end they didn't have enough in the tank to pull off the comeback.

Texas A&M 79, Texas Tech 73

2009-02-22T17:12:00.001-06:00

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As he walked off the United Spirit Arena stage after his post-game news conference, Pat Knight asked if there will be a collection for the fine he expects to receive from the Big 12 Conference.

Coaches usually draw fines when criticizing officials and Knight didn't hold back following Saturday's 79-73 loss to Texas A&M.

"I don't care right now what the Big 12 thinks," Knight said. "They tell us to send tapes in and that obviously doesn't work. Call (someone in the league office) and talk to them ... it's just tough. I don't care about me, it's my kids. My kids bust their butt and they have enough of a time playing against A&M let alone have somebody else they have to play against. I just think it's a shame. Take nothing away from A&M, but we play at home and they get 50 free throws and I have, shoot, four guys that foul out. It's just not right."

The Aggies attempted 55 free throws (and made 30), while the Red Raiders attempted 22 (and made 16). Four Tech players - Robert Lewandowski, Esmir Rizvic, John Roberson and Nick Okorie - fouled out.

A&M (19-8, 5-7) scored 19 points in the final 6:05 and only three came on field goals. The Aggies were in the one-and-one situation for the final 8:38 of the game and the Red Raiders put them in the double bonus at the 5:08 mark after picking up their 10th team foul of the half...(Continue reading Jeff Walker's article: Knight lashes out at referees after Aggies' win.)

Opening day for Tech baseball - TT 14, Southern Utah 3

2009-02-21T16:57:00.002-06:00

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Opening day didn't go exactly like Dan Spencer would have liked, but if it had the new Texas Tech baseball coach probably would be doing something else.

"They never go like you think they are," Spencer said. "Once you think you've got it planned out and handled then you need to find another line of work like fortune teller or card reading, tarot cards."

As it went, however, debuts and trotting out numerous freshmen and newcomers to Division I baseball went about as good as it could - two victories. Ace right-hander Chad Bettis baffled Southern Utah for 62/3 innings to open the day with a 14-3 win, and newcomer Kellen Monreal closed the day with a game-winning RBI single in the bottom of the seventh inning to move the Red Raiders past UT-Pan American, 6-5... (Continue reading George Watson's story: Spencer starts 2-0.)

new website!!

2009-02-18T00:33:00.000-06:00

I recently updated my website - geoffreymcallister.com. Thanks to my brother for helping me put my designs online.

U (heart) V-day? Depends...

2009-02-17T09:58:00.003-06:00

Although Friday was "Friday the 13th" it was Valentine's day at local elementary schools. Some seemed to enjoy the festivities more than others...
Tristan Garcia, center, looks at his shoulder while dancing in his kindergarten's valentine ball Friday morning at Crestview Elementary. The students danced and posed for pictures in the valentine themed library of the school. - - Friday, February 13, 2009 (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)
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Westwind Elementary kindergarten teacher Meredith Jenkins, left, reacts as Chris Whitsell, center, proposes marriage to her Thursday during the morning announcements. Jenkins said yes. - - Friday, February 13, 2009 (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)
Westwind Elementary kindergarten teacher Meredith Jenkins, right, shows off her new engagement ring to Brittney Strebel Kinder, center, after Chris Whitsell, left, proposed marriage Thursday during the morning announcements. Jenkins said yes. - - Friday, February 13, 2009 (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

1919 Baby Grand Chevrolet <--> 1919 Hutch Hutchens

2009-02-07T22:30:00.001-06:00

Terrell Hutchens, left, laughs with his father Hutch, right, as they drive their recently restored 1919 Baby Grand Chevrolet Friday evening in Lubbock. Hutch originally bought the car in 1946. (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

Terrell Hutchens, right, laughs with his father Hutch, right, as he hands him the keys to his 1919 Baby Grand Chevrolet Friday evening at their home in Lubbock. Terrell has been working on the car to get it running for his father's upcoming 90th birthday. (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

[left photo] Terrell Hutchens, left, oils his father's 1919 Baby Grand Chevrolet before taking his father, Hutch, right, for a spin Friday afternoon in Lubbock. Terrell and his father have been restoring the car to drive on Hutch's upcoming 90th birthday. "
[right]"Terrell Hutchens, right, works on removing the carburetor from his father's 1919 Baby Grand Chevrolet Friday evening in Lubbock. Terrell has been working on the car to get it running for his father's upcoming 90th birthday.
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Hutch Hutchens was born in 1919, so was the 1919 Baby Grand Chevrolet. In 1946 Hutch purchased the Chevrolet and restored it with his father. For years this classic automobile hasn't been run until this past year when Hutch's son Terrell started working on it. And now, on the 90th anniversary of both Hutch Hutchens and Baby Grand Chevrolet, the car is puttering down the streets of Lubbock once again.

Friday evening I met Hutch and Terrell as they were oiling up the car to take it for a spin. What a fun car - and what a nice father-son combination.

Be sure to read Ray Westbrook's story - Lubbock man restores 1919 Chevy as gift for dad

rough saturday for Texas Tech basketball

2009-02-03T10:13:00.002-06:00

A pass slips through the hands of Mike Singletary's (32) hands of Texas Tech as he is defended closely by Nebraska's Cookie Miller (34) and Cole Salomon (24) during the first half of a NCAA men's basketball game at United Spirit Arena, January 31, 2009.
(AP photo/Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

Oklahoma State's Shaunté Smith, center, strips the ball from Texas Tech's Kierra Mallard, center, as Megan Byford, left, and Taylor Hardeman, right, close in, Saturday afternoon at United Spirit Arena. The Cowgirls defeated the Lady Raiders 65-60.
Saturday, January 31, 2009 (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)
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Saturday was a rough day for Texas Tech basketball - men's and women's. The women had a hard fought battle - bringing the score to a 2-point deficit with less than 5-minutes remaining in the game, but OSU was just too much. The men were just plain old sloppy - I don't remember watching a college level team make so many careless passes. Unfortunately, because of deadline, we weren't able to capture coach Knight throwing a tantrum and getting ejected - that would have made for some interesting art.

taking a dip

2009-02-01T10:39:00.003-06:00

[left photo] Coronado's Adam Ruiz dives during Saturday's District 2-5A swimming and diving meet at Pete Ragus Aquatic Center. Ruiz placed second with a score of 402.45. (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)
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Read Adam Zuvanich's article: Goggle-less Sanders helps Mustangs to title

Canned

2009-01-22T10:47:00.003-06:00

Retiree Dale Gober fills a shopping cart with bags of rice during his volunteer shift at the South Plains Food Bank. Gober volunteers at South Plains Food Bank several hours a week. Gober farmed for 30 years and then operated an irrigation repair business for several years before retiring in 2008. He said he misses some aspects of running a farm, but not the daily pressures. (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)
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Read Ray Westbrook's article: Just Can't Quit: Despite retirement, Gober keeps on working for free

Lubbock's Inaugural Ball

2009-01-21T22:42:00.005-06:00

To celebrate the swearing in of our nation’s 44th president, Barrack Obama, Lubbock hosted its first inaugural ball at the Civic Center Tuesday evening. Tonya Johnson (above), president of the Juneteenth Committee hosting the ball, gets ready for the ball in her home.
_ _ _
With her employer's blessing, Rose Wilson, still lively at age 81, paused from her chores Tuesday morning to switch on the TV.

"Rose," her employer said, "you can turn on all the TVs in the house if you want."

Rose Wilson moved to Lubbock in the 1950s to pick cotton with her family and has cleaned houses for a living for more than 30 years.

She doubted she would live to see a black president. So did her daughter, Annie Johnson, 58... (Continue reading Marlena Hartz story: In this local family, four generations alive to see America's first black president)

JESUSAVESOULS - behind the sign

2009-01-11T23:49:00.004-06:00

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Three weeks ago I was on assignment at an event called "Pray Lubbock" where pastors from the area gathered in a window-filled room on one of the highest floors in the highest buildings in town to pray for the city of Lubbock. After the hour of prayers I chatted with some of the participants to learn of any interesting people about whom I could possibly do a story for the Christmas/Holiday season. One name that came up was Johnny Landrum - "the man who gave away all his possessions and stands on the corner of 66th and University praising the Lord."

What interested me about this story right away was that, here were these credible pastors who knew not only his name but a bit of his life's story. And they didn't call him crazy, but they seemed to be admiring him.

That same afternoon I stopped by Johnny's corner and chatted w/ him for a few minutes. I'm pretty sure he thought I was the crazy one - wanting to learn more about what his days are like and what drives him to stand on the corner six days a week - but he was very welcoming and when I asked to visit his home the next morning he agreed.

That next morning I rolled out of bed at 4:45 AM, said goodbye to my wife, and was at Johnny's house by about 5:30 AM. To my surprise, the front door was open - only a glass door kept out the cold morning air. The father of the home greeted my knocks and welcomed me into his home as he went off to work - Johnny had told him I was coming. Johnny met me with a big smile - I imagine half surprised I actually showed up. That day I didn't do any photographing - I was purely along to observe the kind of life Johnny led.

He was very cheery for 5:30 in the morning. He bundled in many layers and covered his face to confront the frigid cold that awaited him. If you remember, the days before Christmas were VERY cold - another reason why I was so intrigued why he would still stand out on the corner in such extreme weather. He asked me several times if I wanted to borrow any of his clothes so I wouldn't get cold.

By 5:50 AM we were out the door and by 6:00 AM Johnny was on the corner, holding his sign and praising the Lord.

I hung out with him for nearly an hour in the morning, and then I returned in the afternoon for another hour, and again at 5:45 PM. I had repeatedly seen people stop to talk with Johnny, or share food or coffee or water. Some even donated money. I asked Johnny what he did with everything he was given. He explained how he felt the Lord gave him things so he could then share it with others who were in need. As we walked to his home at the end of the day he even asked me, "If I ask you a sincere question, will you tell me the truth?" I replied I would. He then responded, "How are you and your wife financially, could you use any help?" As he asked me I could see him reaching for the money he had been donated earlier in the day. I smiled and replied we were doing just fine.

To be honest, I wasn't sure what to expect after my first day of observing, but I was impressed. To me, he seemed very sincere. He was open about his history and how, in his words, he had previously sought worldly things over Godly things - how he was a marine - how he was married, etc.

I was also surprised at how many people stopped to talk with him on the corner - even as he wore a ski mask and was bundled up in so many layers. I soon realized the angle I wanted to work my story - the lives that Johnny touched while holding his sign.

The next day was similar to the first, only this time I was documenting him with audio and photographs. There was one moment that I will never forget.

It was in the afternoon; a woman walked up to Johnny and it was clear she was depressed. The conversation between them was short, but very powerful (it can be heard in the video below):
- Johnny: "God bless you, sister. You doin' alright?"
- Woman: "Not really."
- Johnny: "Need some help? Need some help? Here you go." Johnny then reached in his pocket, and without saying anything else he hands her his money. She then begins to cry and together they sing "Jesus Loves Me." As the woman walks away I asked her a few questions (also can be heard in the below video). I asked her what brought her to visit Johnny. She explained how she has been going through some rough times, how she doesn't have any income and how someone/something had told her to visit the man on the corner. She said she was afraid because she didn't know what to say, but that she heard the Lord tell her - don't worry, he won't ask you anything.

This was a powerful moment to experience firsthand. I went back to Johnny to share what she had told me and he simply replied that he felt in his heart she was deserving and that the Lord wanted her to receive the money he had.

I typically don't share my photography experiences in so much depth, but this one wasn't exactly an everyday experience. I wanted to share it with those who cared to read more.
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View the audio slideshow of Johnny's story below:

Johnny messenger from geoffrey mcallister on Vimeo.
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Also - read Jeremy Henderson's story: Johnny Landrum takes God's word to the street

2009 AT&T Cotton Bowl

2009-01-04T15:33:00.002-06:00

(Caption from first photo in above slideshow) Texas Tech captains Graham Harrell (quarterback), Louis Vasquez (guard), Darcel McBath (safety) and Jake Ratliff (defensive end) take the field prior to the 2009 Cotton Bowl against Ole Miss, Friday in Dallas.
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DALLAS – Player after Texas Tech player said the Red Raiders were excited to be at the Cotton Bowl. True or not, it didn’t make them perform any better.

Spotted a two-touchdown lead in the first quarter, No. 7 Tech folded and lost to No. 25 Mississippi 47-34 Friday before a record crowd of 88,175 on a warm, sunny afternoon. For a program accustomed to postseason wins under Mike Leach, it was the most lackluster bowl showing since 2000 in Houston.

“It’s not the way we wanted to end the season, but it’s the way it happened,’’ said senior quarterback Graham Harrell, who finished his career by breaking the major-college record for career touchdown passes... (Read more from Don Williams' story: Bowl Weevils: Rebels' Cotton win spoils Harrell's mark)

Preview: JESUSAVESOULS

2008-12-31T12:29:00.000-06:00

A few weeks ago I attended a prayer meeting of local pastors where, as I was conversing with them after their prayers, I learned of a faithful man who stands on the corner of University and 66th, six days a week, holding the sign "JESUSAVESOULS". I spent a week with him and was amazed at the number of lives he touches while standing on the corner 6 days a week from 6 am to 6 pm. Thinking it would be a great end of the year story I spent the week trying to document how he touches people's lives. Unfortunately, timeliness isn't very important in the eyes of some of our editors so this story won't be running until mid-January, but here is one of the photos from the story.

Check back in a few weeks to see the finished product - I was able to capture some pretty amazing moments recording audio and still photos.

Look who's up on the roof top

2008-12-25T01:17:00.006-06:00

Santa Claus Dennis Hargrove of Lubbock walks on a rooftop of a Lubbock home Monday evening. With his real white beard and years of experience of working with children as a school principal, Hargrove spends several weeks during the holiday season donning a red suit and black boots in his portrayal of St. Nick. (Photo by Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)
Dennis Hargrove of Lubbock describes how children often act when they meet him for the first time. When asked if he is really Santa Clause, Hargrove tells them to pull on his beard. (Photo by Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)
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Children often ask Dennis Hargrove if he is the real Santa Claus, and with a snow-white beard and jolly disposition, it could be difficult to tell.

"It could be me dressed up as Santa Claus or Santa Claus dressed up as me, so you better behave yourself," Hargrove tells the children.

The former Lubbock Independent School District principal spends about five weeks every year in the boots and red-and-white fur-trimmed suit, reading stories to children and handing out candy canes from Thanksgiving until the day after Christmas...(Continue reading the related article: With his natural Santa look, former educator portrays jolly elf every year)

Frenship heartbreak 37-35 vs Denton Guyer

2008-12-09T18:09:00.000-06:00

(First photo in above slideshow) Frenship senior Buddy Mull (55) yells in frustration as Denton Guyer celebrates their last second victory Saturday at Jones AT&T Stadium in Lubbock. (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

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All season, Frenship had found a way to win by gaining that one extra yard, getting that all-important touchdown or making that extra big play on defense.

In the Class 4A Division I Region I Final at Jones AT&T Stadium Saturday afternoon, it was Denton Guyer that took that ability and put an end to the sixth-ranked Tigers’ perfect season. Sam Alspach’s 24-yard field goal as time expired brought the Wildcats all the way back from a 21-point first-quarter deficit for a 37-35 victory.

“I think the thing that happened mostly from the second quarter on and into the second half was we were having a hard time blocking their defensive front,” Frenship coach Brad Davis said. “Big plays kept us in the game, but we never got consistent where I get into a rhythm calling plays and getting a drive going, at least after the first quarter we didn’t. The first quarter was all ours and then we had to hang on, and we hung on until about two seconds to go in the game.”... (Continue reading End of the Line)
View more game photos HERE.
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Here is my Missed Photo of the Game:

Down 21-7 with 7:14 left in the third quarter, Denton Guyer's Antonio Burton blocked a Frenship punt and recovered it for a touchdown. To me, this was the turning point of the game... and I missed it. Granted, I got some nice frames of Burton scooping up the football, crossing the endline, and celebrating his touchdown, but I wanted this blocked punt. To me, this punt was unique because most blocked punts are made when the player dives on the punter's foot - this one was made high in the air. Also, this play scared Frenship into giving up a safety instead of punting with 3:06 remaining in the 4th quarter. (A decision that likely cost Frenship the game). Missed moments and mistakes are life's best lessons.

What could I have done differently? I've been thinking about that off and on for the past couple days. I suppose the easiest thing would have been to let go of the focus button when I initially knew I had the punter in focus (I use the thumb focus button on my Nikon D2HS so I can leave the focus alone and keep firing off frames if needs be). In this instance I must have kept my thumb on the focus button which is why as the play continued and my framing adjusted the camera focused on the brick background. A second option could have been to change my focus metering from the center point to the diamond. Third, I could have shot with a wider lens (70-200). This is the second 'missed' blocked punt this football season and both were when I was debating between using my 300mm or switching to the 70-200mm.

Below is the uncropped series of photos on the play.

Kinky's cigars

2008-12-05T15:58:00.005-06:00

Mark Graham of Lubbock enjoys a "Kinkycristo" cigar in the lounge of Heroes and Legacies Thursday evening. Former Texas Governor candidate Kinky Friedman was on hand to launch his cigar line and sign autographs.
"The Governor" cigar is the most expensive of the line of Kinky Friedman cigars on display at Heroes and Legacies Thursday evening.

Thursday, December 04, 2008 (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)
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Cigar smoke and politics hung heavy in the air Thursday night at Heroes and Legacies in South Lubbock, where former gubernatorial candidate Kinky Friedman was out promoting his new line of cigars.

Oh, and there were a few jokes, too.

But the famous singer, novelist, politician and humorist couldn't escape the flood of fans who seemingly had one question on their minds: Would Friedman run for governor again?

"I sure wouldn't do it again as an independent and I can't afford to do it as a Republican, so I'd have to run as a Democrat," he said. "One thing's for sure. When I die, I want to be cremated and have my ashes thrown in Rick Perry's hair."...(Continue reading the related article: Friedman promotes his new cigars, doesn't rule out run)

HS playoff football: Idalou 26, Brady 18

2008-11-30T23:43:00.003-06:00

Idalou defenders swarm and strip the ball from Brady's Seth Bozeman (2) during the second half Saturday during the class 2A regional championship at Midland. Idalou defeated Brady 26-18. (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)
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MIDLAND - Simply put, Idalou finished drives. Brady did not.

That was all the difference there was in the Wildcats' 26-18 victory over the Bulldogs in a Class 2A Division II Region I semifinal Saturday afternoon at Grande Communications Stadium. The win puts the Wildcats (12-1) into the fourth round for the second straight year where they await the winner of Saturday's late game between Cisco and District 3-2A rival Roosevelt.

Brady (11-2) outgained Idalou in total yardage 309-254, but the Bulldogs could not find the end zone until they scored twice in the last 40 seconds of the game to make the score closer than the game actually was.

Up to that point, the Wildcats had stuffed Brady at almost every turn, including a goalline stand to end the first half in which Brady ran eight plays inside the Idalou 12 and was inside the 1 before being turned away. Brady had two separate drives that totaled 43 plays and covered 135 total yards, but no points... (Continue reading the related article: Wildcats' drive through playoffs continues with win over Bulldogs)

HS playoff football video: Muleshoe 42, Clyde 7

2008-11-29T12:45:00.005-06:00

Click ABOVE to watch video game highlights of Muleshoe and Clyde.
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WOLFFORTH - Muleshoe decided to have a second Thanksgiving dinner on Friday night.

A host of Muleshoe defenders tackle Clyde's Colby Smith (21) during the Mules' 42-7 playoff victory on Friday in Wolfforth.

The Muleshoe defense provided the meat, and quarterback Wes Wood did the carving as the No. 4 Mules beat Clyde, 42-7, at Tiger Stadium to advance to the Class 2A state semifinals for the first time since 2000.

“It means everything to these kids,” Muleshoe head coach David Wood said. “They all made the trip and watched that game eight years ago and said, We want to be that team.’ And now they have the same chance to try and get to the state finals.

Muleshoe (13-0) forced seven turnovers against Clyde - four in the first half - to knock the Bulldogs off their rushing attack... (Continue reading the related article: Mules kick aside Clyde to reach state semis)

Cooper High's X-country to state

2008-11-26T20:31:00.003-06:00

Cooper High's men's cross country team practices Wednesday afternoon near Cooper High School. The team will compete in a state meet this Saturday.

Wednesday, November 12, 2008. (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

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At this time last year, Myles Hunter was feeling a little lonely.

He was a first-time qualifier for the UIL Cross Country State Championships in Round Rock, but his excitement was tempered to some degree. He couldn't enjoy the support or camaraderie from his Cooper teammates, who had to stay home after narrowly missing a state berth as a team.
Click here to find out more!

"It was fun," Cooper coach Christie Parsley said, "but there were six more runners that were missing. I think Myles felt that, too." ...(Continue reading the related article: Cooper expecting nothing less than medal)

Red Raiders pound East Central 167-115

2008-11-26T19:44:00.005-06:00

Left: Texas Tech's Tyree Graham (3) dishes the ball around Wes Bradley (32) of East Central Thursday night at the United Spirit Arena.
Right: Texas Tech's D'walyn Roberts (5) goes up against East Central's Ian Adams (40) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game at the United Spirit Arena in Lubbock Thursday night. Roberts was fouled on the play. (Lubbock Avalanche-Journal Geoffrey McAllister)
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Texas Tech’s first game of the Legends Classic may not have been legendary, but it was historic.

The Red Raiders, playing a little more than a scrimmage against Division II East Central (Okla.), nearly reached their season average in points scored - by halftime. They undoubtedly set numerous first-half records (Tech doesn’t list records by half), then shattered them in the second half.

Trevor Cook (24) scored 20 points in Texas Tech's 167-115 win over East Central (Okla.) on Thursday at United Spirit Arena.
Tech jumped out to a 77-57 halftime lead - nine points shy of its season average - and cruised Thursday to a 167-115 win in front of an announced crowd of 5,505 at United Spirit Arena... (Continue reading the related article: Raiders set record in romp)

Clues wanted in murder case

2008-11-26T19:23:00.004-06:00

Blown sand partially covers flowers left to remember Monica Adams who was found beaten and murdered in a northeast Lubbock field on August 20th of this year. Police Sgt. Jim Pachall, right, remembers the scene nearly three months later.

Thursday, November 13, 2008. (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)
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Red and white roses lie in the sand near where Monica Adams' body was found three months ago.

Her family placed them there as they remember their loved one and wait for a killer to be found.

Police still hope to get critical tips three months after her body was found brutally beaten in a Northeast Lubbock field.

Sgt. Jim Pachall said some people think the murder case will go away because of Adams' history in prostitution - and it has presented challenges in the case - but it won't stop police from trying to find a killer...(Continue reading related article: Lubbock police hope public can help solve Adams murder case)

Native americans bless "The Harvest"

2008-11-26T18:06:00.005-06:00

Danny Mannin of the Chickasaw Choctow tribe, center, Izzy Ramirez of the Arizona Pascua Yaqui tribe, left, and Jacob Galvan of the Apache tribe, right, burn sage to bless and cleanse "The Harvest" statue that was unveiled Thursday at Mae Simmons Park. The statue was was created by Eddie Dixon and Kyle Pettit.

Wednesday, November 19, 2008. (Geoffrey McAllister/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)

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Turn the clock back more than a century, Eddie Dixon said, and you might hear drums beating near a stream in Yellow House Canyon.

The Lubbock sculptor said his mind began drifting back Wednesday, as musicians played the songs of American Indians atop a dusty hill in Mae Simmons Park near Dixon's latest contribution to public art.

"Maybe 100, 120 years ago, you could hear that very sound echoing across the hills of this canyon," he said.

Maybe. But on a day in March 1877, you most assuredly would have heard gunfire between warring Comanche Indians and buffalo hunters in one of the last skirmishes on the South Plains. The two sides battled among Comanche camps in the canyon, which today is filled with water and part of the Canyon Lake System.(Continue reading the related article: Sculpture honors American Indians' contributions to Lubbock)

Oklahoma slams Texas Tech 65-21

2008-11-23T20:52:00.004-06:00

(First photo in above slideshow) Texas Tech's Michael Crabtree (5) is swallowed up by OU's defense during OU's 65-21 victory over Texas Tech Saturday in Norman.
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Disappointing was the word for Texas Tech football fans in Lubbock Saturday as the Oklahoma Sooners dominated the Red Raiders, probably spoiling Tech's dream of getting to the national championship game.

Sports bars like Buffalo Wild Wings and Beef O'Brady's were down to a few fans by the third quarter. Earlier, parking lots were so full people were parking blocks away.

"Our defense didn't show up tonight," said Chris Noffsinger, a Tech junior from Austin. "The whole team's not themselves tonight."

The game left the Red Raider faithful a sad group, ending three weeks of excitement since Tech beat then-number one Texas and vaulted to an unprecedented number two ranking... (Continue the related article: Tech fans crushed as championship hopes fade)