The Clocktower, Volume 88 Issue 6

The

Issue 88.6

Clocktower Union College

OCTOBER 9, 2013

Seating for Snacks & Study Sessions Returning students may recall my article last year announcing the exciting developments taking place around Cooper’s Corner. You CHELSEA sat on the edge of your ZUMWALT metaphorical seat as I listed off numerous suggestions for the convenience store’s new extended seating in the Atrium. This year you returned with anticipation—the balcony on the west side of the Atrium, known as The Bell, would be open for Cooper’s Corner patrons to enjoy their snacks and daily joe.

Instead, you found the balcony bare, exactly as you’d left it. What’s up with that?

For new and returning students alike, here is the lowdown on what the new seating will have to offer and what has been delaying its completion.

In last year’s student counsel, Tyler Ellis, manager of Cooper’s Corner, developed a bill proposing that The Bell be opened as additional seating for Cooper’s Corner customers. The bill was passed, and Plant Services began to draft a plan looking at the cost, time, and tools necessary for the job.

They soon ran into problems. To give access to the balcony from Cooper’s Corner, a wall would need to be torn down and

a door installed in its place. The price of the endeavor began to increase, drastically delaying the project. But backed enthusiastically by Peter Blankenship, director of dining services, the project wasn’t scrapped, and the obstacles were circumnavigated.

With some careful planning and maneuvering, Plant Services found a solution and

hopes to begin construction in a week.

After his arrival in the fall of 2009, Blankenship worked hard to renovate and rejuvenate the college’s cafeteria.

Under his leadership, Union Market’s menu options have grown, while the college has concurrently saved money. Although (continued on page 3)

The Bell—just imagine bathing in the natural light while you chat and study.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE ► U.S. RESPONSIBILITY

GLITTERY GATSBY

OPINION, page 2

CULTURE, PAGE 4

SHOULD YOU BEFRIEND YOUR EX? SPECIAL INTEREST, page 5

HOW NOT TO TEXT SPECIAL INTEREST, page 5

OPINION

PAGE 2

Political Responsibility Just the U.S. or Include the Rest?

I was recently asked if the U.S. has a moral imperative, based on its dominant position in global politics, to intervene around the globe to SPENCER prevent or halt conflicts WAY and crises. My mind went instantly to football.

Ever since my final growth spurt in the fifth grade, I have asked if it is fair that I was accused of being a tyrant quarterback because some people on my football team never caught any touchdown passes.

Surely being the biggest kid on the gridiron did not make me responsible for everyone else’s ability to prove themselves in the red zone. Does the same logic apply to the debate over the U.S.’s duty to citizens across the globe?

I believe there are three principles that contribute to the debate over the U.S.’s duty to the rest of the world. First, the goal of leadership is to help others achieve their highest level of potential. The U.S. has been privileged throughout history to be a part of other countries upward climbs. But

the first principle runs into trouble without the second: leadership and responsibility come in stages.

After World War II, the U.S. enjoyed unsurpassed influence and undeniable economic and militaristic superiority. As the biggest fifth grader on the field, the U.S. did a pretty successful job of enabling the development of smaller countries.

Germany and Japan have made remarkable comebacks and China has developed unrivaled economic advantages in the last five decades.

The world is no longer in the fifth grade; times have changed since the 1960s, and the developed world is rife with economies large enough to exert considerable influence on the more troubled corners of the globe. It is perhaps fair to say that the U.S. is no longer solely responsible for the conflicts and crises of the world—not because our country is weaker or less influential compared to the decades following WWII, but because others have achieved a level of prosperity and security that they now share in the moral imperative to help others.

There comes a time in the huddle, and I believe the time has come in international politics, to recognize the talents of others and utilize their abilities. It takes an exceptional leader to leave the autocratic fifth grade and invite others to play the game as equals. Without this recognition of a new stage, quarterbacks and the U.S. risk failing to achieve goals that have grown beyond the ability of one exceptional entity to achieve.

Few lasting changes have ever been accomplished by one entity acting alone.

Successful football teams and international initiatives usually include numerous contributors acting in concert and compromise to accomplish a common goal. I believe the question is not whether or not the U.S. has a moral imperative to intervene. The question is: Does the U.S. have a moral imperative to seek concerted compromise with the international community as nations seek change for marginalized global citizens the world over?

SPENCER WAY is a senior studying business administration.

UPCOMING EVENTS Sun 6

Mon 7

Tue 8

Wed 9

Thu 10

Fri 11

Sat 12

Fall Break

13

14 Fall Break

Columbus Day Volleyball: Warriors vs. NE Wesleyan University JV, 7 p.m. in the Thunderdome

15 16 17 ASB Convocation, National Boss Day 10:30 a.m.

Volleyball: Warriors vs. Calgary Bible College, 5 p.m. in the Thunderdome

18

Mid-America Volleyball Tournament (through Oct. 19) Academic Assembly, 10:30 a.m.

Vespers: UFC Concert with Bebo Norman, Andrew Peterson, and Sara Groves, 7:30 p.m., CVC

Fall Break

19 V2, 6:15 p.m.

Club Night

ON CAMPUS

PAGE 3

Corraine McNeill Bug-Lover Extraordinaire

As the newest member to join the Division of Science and Mathematics, Corraine McNeill isn’t scared of a few creepy-crawlies.

ANNA Joining Union as assisPONGO tant professor of biology, McNeill teaches classes in general biology, human biology, and insects and you.

Having achieved her Ph.D. in Entomology in December from the University of Florida, McNeill moved to Lincoln this summer with her husband, Seth McNeill, an electrical engineer at UNL, and their two cats: Bruiser and Askher. Having studied urban pest control, she knows more than her fair share about bed bugs.

THUMBS UP/ THUMBS DOWN

FROM THE CLOCKTOWER STAFF Joellyn: to having such an awesome IRR building to study in and learn how to save lives.

Steven: to learning how to properly pull off scarves this autumn.

Brianna: s’mores.

to losing control with

Emily: to Mother Nature’s fear of commitment to fall.

Megan: Anna: Spencer: home!

to fall break! to the Safe Quarters drive. to a package from

A native of Jamaica, McNeill moved to the U.S. when she was 18 for college.

Unsure whether to teach or pursue medicine, she decided to follow her love of biology to Randolph Macon Woman’s College in Virginia. Having remained in Jamaica, her father is the regional director for several hospitals and clinics, and her mom is a teacher for the third grade.

An avid fan of travelling and crochet, McNeill has a wide range of interests.

“Professionally, I enjoy playing with and learning about slugs,” she said. “Bugs and slugs are my thing.”

An enthusiastic teacher, McNeill enjoys interacting with students. A head resident assistant during her college years, she loves to help, teach, and nurture those around her.

“One of the things that has blessed me immensely is ministering to people in nursing homes and hospitals with my guitar and a group of people willing to use their talents to serve God to lift people’s spirits and resonate hope,” she said.

Interested in getting to know Corraine McNeill better? Drop by her office on the (continued from page 1) instrumental in the project’s advancement, he has taken none of the credit, describing himself as the “cheerleader who encouraged [Tyler Ellis].” Blankenship makes it clear that Ellis’ job didn’t stop once the bill was passed, highlighting Ellis’ efforts in raising funds, acquiring permission, and continuing to develop the idea.

Upon completion, The Bell will hold four to six tables where students can socialize or study over Cooper’s refreshments. When asked what he finds most exciting about the

If you want to know more about creepycrawlies, ask Corraine McNeill. third floor of Jorgensen Hall. She can tell you more than you thought you’d ever know about bugs.

ANNA PONGO is a senior studying communication journalism.

project, Blankenship responded that the new seating area will “create a neat space to get together. The area will provide an open space in the sunshine in the midst of activity, as students head to and from class.”

Although later than anticipated, the final product is likely to be well worth the wait. Just don’t forget to thank Tyler Ellis and Peter Blankenship alike for making this idea a reality.

CHELSEA ZUMWALT is a senior studying nursing and pre-allied health.

Taylor: to epic roommate bonding time.

ACADEMIC TIP OF THE WEEK

Aphelandra: to beignets, fried green tomatoes, and Spanish moss... but to not being in Savannah.

Use flashcards, but have someone else quiz you. If you quiz yourself, you are much more likely to skip answers that you only “kind of know,” which won’t be useful during the test.

CULTURE

PAGE 4

ALL THAT GLITTERS IS GOLD “Why is there glitter in my physics book?” This was something I asked myself after wearing a brand new disco ball-esque dress to CASSIE a fall get-together last JOHNSON year. After sparkling the night away, the shimmer did not stay in the night. Rather, it followed me for months after. My car, the washing machine, even my teeth were not immune to the glitter explosion. I loved it.

‘Tis the season of glitz and glam, a fashion movement spurred by the release of “The Great Gatsby” into the mainstream. Runways and major retailers alike (continued on page 6)

Vacationer

just in time for fall break Back in the day, I was pretty cool. Those days were two years ago, and I was pretty cool because I had a radio show on Colorado Mesa University’s KMSA 91.3. Becoming a radio DJ was the best move I made for expanding my passion for all types of music. I was introduced to all sorts of indie bands, and one of them was Vacationer.

STEVEN Vacationer released their first album, Gone, in FOSTER 2012, and it swept college radio stations by storm. Aptly named, the first song “Good As New” opens with violins mingled with xyloUPCOMING CONCERTS phones to a classic hip-hop beat. Kenny Vasoli’s tenor vocals are a sweet touch to the happily relaxing melody. My SAVOY mind takes a vacation every time I hear Oct. 22, The Bourbon Theatre the song.

A reccurring theme throughout the Hoodie Allen album is the sound of a vinyl record Oct. 27, The Bourbon Theatre scratching, and it creates a familiar Pretty Lights feeling. From “Trip” to “Gone,” the Nov. 15, The Pershing Center feel-good indie mashes with hip-hop drums and the album sounds like one John Mayer movement—pure relaxation. If that Nov. 22, Pinnacle Bank Arena isn’t relaxing enough, just imagine layJay-Z ing down in a hammock with warm tea Dec. 1, Pinnacle Bank Arena and listening to “Farther,” which sooths your ears to sounds of birds chirping

IN LINCOLN

while Vasoli hums oohs and ahhs. Perfect.

The next time you’re looking to take the most relaxing nap of your life, look no further than Vacationer to help you reach that blissful coma.

STEVEN FOSTER is a junior studying communication.

SPECIAL INTEREST

ASK AMBER Dear Amber,

AMBER ALAS

I’ve recently joined a group of people on campus who have to find a way to remain civil with their ex-boyfriends (or ex-girlfriends) because the college is too small to avoid seeing them. Do you think that exes can still remain friends? Is that even a good idea?

Sincerely, Match.com’s Newest Member

Dear Match.com’s Newest Member, I think this is a yes and no answer. There are some people who refuse to be friends with their exes, some who actually want to be friends with their exes, and some who are able to become friends with their exes after taking a break from any communication with them.

I think befriending your exes can be a good idea—to a certain extent. Let’s say a couple had a horrible break-up in which one person did something atrocious to the other, yet they still have feelings for one another. In this case, I think having some time apart is the best thing to do. Having that break can give both people time to reflect on the relationship.

Being civil with one another is perfectly fine because running into them is bound to happen—especially at Union College. Then again, being civil right away doesn’t mean meeting up weekly or texting them all the time. It means being polite and acknowledging them, but not going out of your way to see them. Saying hello while passing them on the way to class is more than enough. Af-

PAGE 5 ter feeling as though you’ve moved on and maybe even started to have other love interest, becoming friends again will seem easier and come a lot more naturally.

I personally don’t think it’s a good idea for two people who still have strong feelings for one another to attempt a friendship.

If a person still has slight feelings for their ex and tries to become their friend, they will start liking them all over again 99 percent of the time. It’s your own decision whether or not you want to put yourself in that position.

For the people who were friends before they started dating, it’s easier to become friends again—especially if they were best friends. If you have ever known somebody who was best friends with their boyfriend/girlfriends before they dated, all they ever want is to be friends with them again. They miss the friendship more than anything. As long as their intentions are moral and true, I think becoming friends again is a big possibility. However, there is a percentage of people who get back together with their exes even if they would have never expected it. You just never know!

Do I think it’s a good idea? I think it depends on the situation and what the people involved are looking for. If they are over each other and all they want is friendship, then it can most likely work out. On the other hand, if they feel as though they are pressured to be friends with one another just because of the school size, I think their friendship can never truly be what it used to be. Some people just choose not to associate with their exes because it’s a reminder of the pain, anger, or dislike towards that person. And sometimes they simply grow out of that person. I would talk to the people who know you the best to help you decide how to go about things.

Sincerely, Amber AMBER ALAS is a senior nursing student.

Have a question or situation that you think could benefit from someone else’s perspective? Ask Amber at www.tinyurl.com/uc-askamber. All inquiries are anonymous, so you get the insight without being in sight.

TEXTING ETIQUETTE The hills are alive with the sound of electronic conversation snippets. Text alerts are the melody of a new song that all ages must learn to BRIANNA sing. Teachers, friends, SCHENKELBERG parents, and bosses are all learning that texting dominates the communication realm. This is why it’s important to know some etiquette rules.

For starters, keep in mind that sarcasm

does not translate over into texting. Miscommunication thrives in sarcastic-text world. Make sure the person receiving this text is well-versed in sarcasm. For instance, “Where are you? Stopping at the drug dealer on the way?” could get you in trouble.

Also, when starting a conversational text conversation with someone, be sure you’re able to continue responding. If you ask how they’re doing, respond to their answer sooner than three hours later. When you respond, do so with ample words. If

your friend is texting, “Fine. But, I’ve been better. I just found out that my aunt has cancer,” and takes paragraphs to explain the situation, please respond with more than, “That sounds bad.”

Most importantly, make sure you’re always texting safely. Driving and texting are always a no-no; red lights are more acceptable (though still not legal). In New York, “texting zones” have been introduced. Well, it’s more of a re-branding of (continued on page 6)

CONTINUED

PAGE 6 (continued from page 5) rest stops, but 298 signs are being added with messages such as, “It can wait. Text Stop 5 miles.”

Just as importantly, make sure you don’t prioritize texting over the here-andnow. Enjoy face-to-face interactions without the interruption of pulling out your phone.

Here are a few more rules from fellow students and faculty: “Give adequate time before expecting a response, and don’t assume everyone knows all the acronyms you use.” –Brian Gonzalez “Never break up with somebody over texting.” –Michelle Mesnard “Don’t text after 1 a.m. unless absolutely necessary. Also, winks are different than smileys. Use them wisely. :)” –Tyler Morrison “Don’t text in the car. Also, be careful what you say. Say you’re going to run for president someday, somebody’s going to find out what you texted in college.”

–President John Wagner (continued from page 4) have embraced the trend, encouraging people everywhere to leave trails of glitter in their wake.

This trend lends itself fantastically to fall gathering costume attire.

Simply throw on your favorite glam dress, add as many glittery accents as possible, and put your party face on. Follow the lead of the Division of Humanities’ office manager, Tamara Seiler, who recently attended a Gatsby-themed supper.

Don’t reserve this fashion opportunity for special occasions. Add a little glitz and glam to your day-today grind, by channeling your inner Gatsby. Catching the light with your every movement is a common, entirely desirable side effect. Here are some tips to get you started. ●● Gravitate towards a neutral color palate. Recommended are creams, dusty rose, mint, and any other light tones of your preferred hue.

Don’t let texting replace talking.

“Don’t use shorthand. Remember your punctuation. It is okay to use correct grammar and verbiage when you text.” –Tori Eldenberg

“Don’t handle anything crucial through texts. If it’s important, make sure you talk about it in person” –Linda Becker

BRIANNA SCHENKELBERG is a senior studying communication.

●● Add a bounty of glitter and jewel accents. For parties, glittery headbands are required. Feathers, dangly pearl necklaces, and a plethora of diamonds are optional, but recommended. For class, one stand-out, sparkly piece may be sufficient. ●● Full, swishy skirts and dresses make you feel and look glamorous. For a get-together, lean towards fancy dresses with a loose feel. For the day-to-day, opt for full skirts in creamy tones.

Guys, don’t be dismayed, for I offer a valuable tip for you as well.

Grab your pink suit of choice from your closet, and you’re ready to go: a la Leonardo DiCaprio.

May your life be full of glitter, as your wardrobe ushers in a life of glamor. I wouldn’t be surprised if Leo followed the glitter trail straight to your physics classroom.

CASSIE JOHNSON is a senior pursuing a business pre-med degree.

Tamara and Mickey Seiler donning classy Gatsby garb.

EVERYTHING ELSE

UPCOMING EVENTS www.websudoku.com

SUDOKU

PAGE 7

IN CAMPUS

MINISTRIES 10/9: Hour of Prayer, Heritage Room at CVC, 7 p.m.

10/10: ITAG: 15 minutes of prayer and encouragement; 10:30 a.m. in the Atrium lobby.

10/12: Sabbath School options for 10:40 a.m.: 1. Student Center. 2. Young Adult in the basement of the church. 3. Something Else in Heartland Hall (east end of CVC).

CVC service with Pastor Ron, 9:15 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.

Staff Editor-in-Chief Copy Editors Layout Editor Opinion On Campus Culture

APP

OF THE WEEK

EVEREST

In harmony with “The Sound of Music,” Everest encourages you to climb every mountain. That metaphorical mountain could be a dream that is small—like learning how to whistle—or a desire to accomplish something big—like literally scaling a humongous mountain. Use Everest to break down your dreams into manageable steps, get feedback and suggestions from the app’s community manager, and even explore others’ dreams to inspire your own.

Complete with a clean, simple design, this app is manageable—along with your dreams. What’s your Everest?

It’s time for “a night at the station.”

This year’s fall banquet theme is WWII-era, so fellows, don your most noble apparel, and girls, come with your pin curls.

When: Sunday, October 20th, 6:30 p.m.

Where: Durham Museum in Omaha

Special Interest Sports/Tech Photographer Online Content Manager Sponsor

Emily Syvertson Taylor Roberts Joellyn Sheehy Aphelandra Messer Spencer Way Anna Pongo Chelsea Zumwalt Steven Foster Cassandra Johnson Brianna Schenkelberg Amber Alas Tyler Ellis Cody Blake Megan Prescott Michael D. Steingas

Feedback The Clocktower encourages reader feedback and strives to maintain accuracy.

If you have comments, please email us at cltower@gmail.com.

The Clocktower is published weekly during the school year by the Associated Student Body of Union College, 3800 S. 48th St., Lincoln, NE 68506.

The opinions expressed are the opinions of the writers and are not to be construed as the opinion of the editors, Associated Student Body, Union College, or the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

Student Spotlight

Feats of Athleticism

MATTISON JENKS ALINA MATHESON

T

his past summer, Alina Matheson decided to take up running in between her camp duties. She quickly began adding distance to her runs at an unexpected pace and found herself nearing marathon mileage. Now that summer is over, she is back studying art education while still carving out time for her double-digit mileage.

The Clocktower: We’ve heard that you run marathon-like distances on a pretty regular basis. Is that true?

Alina Matheson: That is correct! On Sundays I run longer distances, usually 10 to 13 miles early in the morning. The first time I decided to run 15 miles, I kept going until I reached 20 miles. My next goal this fall is to run a marathon.

CT: Have you participated in any races?

AM: I’ve run in two races. My first was in Lincoln—a fivemile run for a charity. The other was in Ebeye, Marshall Islands, for six miles. I placed third for the women in that race.

CT: What is the most bizarre thing that has happened to you while you were on a run?

AM: I was in Arkansas for a wedding. On the Sunday before the wedding, I thought, “Why not run 13 miles, which I haven’t done before, just to see how I do?” Close to the end of my run, a middle-aged man peddling his bike caught up with me and asked if I was living in the area. I said no. Then he asked if I had boyfriend.

I freaked out, worried I might not be able to get away from him.

So I lied, saying that I did have a boyfriend, and ran for dear life.

Thankfully, he didn’t keep following me!

CT: What is your advice for novice runners, or even experienced runners, who would like to up their mileage?

AM: Don’t think about how fast you can run. When you start running, start at a slow pace and then increase your pace comfortably. Just keep going.

Alina recommends visiting www.halhigdon.com/training to help you train for a race. On October 20, Alina will complete a 15k for the Governors run in Lincoln—one step closer to her marathon goal.

M

attison Jenks, a sophomore studying biomedical science, is on three of Union’s athletic teams: volleyball, basketball, and gymnastics.

The Clocktower: What is the most difficult part of being so involved in so many sports?

Mattison Jenks: I would say the most difficult part is getting enough sleep and doing my homework. Sundays are definitely packed; I have work plus four hours of practices.

CT: Despite being so cramped for time, what makes it all worth it?

MJ: This is an easy question. Each team is like a family.

Granted, two out of the three teams are an all-girl family, which can sometimes be stressful [laughs]. But there are people on each team that I will always hold in my heart. They are my family when I am away from home. It’s also great because I can eat anything I want and still be able to work it off!

CT: What is your advice to someone who would like to participate on multiple sports teams?

MJ: Be committed to God first, school second, and then your sports. It will be a constant struggle to make sure your priorities are straight, but it is important. Sports are an excellent way to get exercise, new friends, and sometimes some stress relief, but it is also a whole lot of work. You need to be committed to putting in the extra hours to do your work for school. And keep God with you always—He’s the only way you’ll get through it alive.