Dec. 7, 2016

THE MARLIN CHRONICLE

Master Plan THURSDAY 12.8.16 || MARLINCHRONICLE.VWC.EDU ||

VIRGINIA WESLEYAN COLLEGE

BY ASHLEY KLINE aakline@vwc.edu

Hayley Heath| Marlin Chronicle President Scott Miller discusses the college’s master plan with students on Nov. 30. The plan includes renovations to a variety of areas on campus.

President Miller gave students a glimpse into the future of Virginia Wesleyan College by presenting the 10-year Master Plan on Nov. 30. Miller discussed such projects as the construction of the YMCA Partnership Building, the Susan S. Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center, Oxford Village, a new fitness center, fencing around campus, new parking, new dormitories and an outdoor track, as well as a walking path extending to Lake Taylor.

Construction of the YMCA Partnership Building will begin on Dec. 8. The building will be constructed outside the arboretum toward the back of campus and will feature three classrooms, a multipurpose room, eight office spaces, a kitchenette and an amphitheater large enough to accommodate 250 people. Students and faculty will use the building during the school year, and the 225 to 250 children attending YMCA’s Camp Red Feather will make use of the building during the summer months.

Miller also said that construction of the new Susan S. Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center would take place in three phases. Miller stated that it is the college’s desire to get phase one underway as soon as possible. However, it still must raise the necessary $14 million in funding. Miller hopes to have this first phase completed within two years.

Oxford Village is an apartment complex to be constructed on the 12.8 acres of Wesleyan-owned land directly across from the college on Wesleyan Drive. The Franklin Johnston Group will build the complex.

Oxford Village is set to include 252 units, which will include one-, two-, three- and possibly four-bedroom apartments. The apartment complex will include a recreation center, swimming pool and one-lane bowling alley. Miller said that Oxford Village would be “affordable, safe and wellmaintained.” The apartments will be open to students, faculty and those not associated with Virginia Wesleyan College, such as employees of Norfolk Academy and retirees.

With the construction of Oxford Village, Miller said he hopes to “attract a different population.” Miller said that construction on Oxford Village would probably begin next August or September since it will take several months to work out all the details.

SEE PLAN Pg. 2

Overtime rule on hold, college payroll unaffected

OSU stabbing shocks campus

Marijuana: the blunt truth

BY MICKELLA RAST

BY KATIE BROOKS kjbrooks@vwc.edu

mjrast@vwc.edu

A federal judge blocked the Department of Labor’s new overtime rule that would have gone into effect Dec. 1. President Obama championed the rule in his efforts to strengthen the middle class. VWC President Scott Miller, who had opposed the rule, said in his recent Nota Bene that the future of this rule is still uncertain.

During Obama’s second term, he worked to enact a new overtime rule with the goal of “making more workers eligible for the overtime that [they’ve] earned.” The new regulation, which the Department of Labor (DOL) attempted to put in place, was finalized over the summer.

The new law would have effectively increased the salary threshold under which an employee is covered through current overtime rules. Previously, the annual salary cap was set at $23,660 but was to be changed to $47,476 post-rule. Therefore, workers who would earn over $47,476 per year would not be considered eligible for overtime pay. Any worker making below this amount would be eligible if working over 40 hours a week. Other exemptions include employees who are classified as having executive, administrative or professional duties. In Virginia, these exemptions also include outside sales.

Prior to the rule’s blocking, Miller blogged about his perspective concerning the effect of the rule on colleges in The Huffington Post. He noted the vast impact the rule would have, referring to its “potentially severe financial blow to colleges, universities and businesses.” Miller reported that, after financial analysis, Virginia Wesleyan College would have to pay staff an additional $712,845 in overtime as a result of the rule.

There are over 300 recorded slang terms for marijuana.

States, animals and commonplace names have all been sacrificed to the altar of colloquialism, the result being jargon such as Chicago green, the magic dragon and Mary Jane. Such names may become nationally known by the end of year due to marijuana legalization laws.

Terry McAuliffe, the governor of Virginia, said in an interview with WTOP radio that he would be willing to legalize marijuana statewide as soon as 2017 if legislators are ready to back the measure. He also said that any bills would most likely be specific to medical cannabis, as opposed to recreational.

If marijuana were legalized, colleges and universities would have to decide how to incorporate the new laws into their existing framework of rules and regulations.

The first of these decisions would be whether to allow marijuana on campus or continue to ban it. If the former is selected, the question then becomes whether to allow students and staff

SEE LABOR Pg. 2

BY ASHLEY KLINE

Google Images| Courtesy

aakline@vwc.edu

An attack on the campus of Ohio State University (OSU) resulted in 11 injured persons and one dead attacker on the morning of Monday, Nov. 28. According to CNN, OSU student Abdul Razak Ali Artan was named responsible for the attack.

Authorities are still trying to determine whether or not the attack was an act of terrorism. One of Artan’s Facebook posts grieved the killing and torture of Muslims. Authorities said that Artan had a Muslim background and was a native of Somalia.

The attack consisted of Artan hitting people with his car and then approaching others with a knife. Upon refusing to halt his attack, Artan was shot by OSU police officer Alan Horujko. The attack lasted no longer than two minutes thanks to the work of the officer.

OSU President Dr. Michael V. Drake said, “What we want to do is really unify together and support each other; do our best to support those who were injured in their recovery, and then allow the investigation to take place.”

to use marijuana medically, recreationally or both. Additionally, schools will have to decide where people will be allowed to smoke it.

Smoking inside poses a fire hazard, but smoking outside could affect bystanders. Because of its classification as a mind-altering substance, second-hand smoke inhalation poses more of a problem with marijuana than cigarettes or vapes do.

“One of the first things the college would do is look for guidance from within the commonwealth itself, and the state organizations that we belong to,” Vice President of Student Affairs Keith Moore said.

“We would also look at what our peer institutions within the commonwealth in particular are doing, but I would also extend the benchmarking to states that have already managed this,” Moore said.

Looking to other campus communities would be one of the most important initiatives the college would take in response to the legalization of marijuana.

SEE MJ Pg. 2

2 Thursday December 8, 2016 The Marlin Chronicle marlinchronicle.vwc.edu

NEWS

Grant not keeping pace with rising tuition Is the VTAG keeping up?

Percentage of tuition covered by VTAG

9.50 9.25 9.00 2015

2014

2016

Years

Infographic by Ashlei Gates Source : Donald Stauffer, Senior Researcher and Policy Analyst

BY PATRICK SUTTLE pjsuttle@vwc.edu

As tuition costs climb, grants from the state of Virginia have not kept up with increasing tuition costs, with only moderate increases in awards.

Additionally, according to data provided by senior researcher and policy analyst Donald Stauffer, the number of students at VWC receiving the Virginia Tuition Assistance Grant has gradually decreased. This year, VWC currently has 962 full-time, in-state residents but only 838 of them are VTAG recipients. In 2015, the school had 904 VTAG recipients. In 2014, there were 916 VTAG recipients. The current tuition cost for Virginia Wesleyan College students is $34,960. Students eligible for VTAG are currently awarded $3,200. The 2015 cost of tuition at VWC was $33,778, with eligible students being granted $3,100 through VTAG. In 2014, the cost of tuition at VWC was $32,636. Students were awarded $3,100 through VTAG. Grants may be on the rise soon. According to Director of Financial Aid Teresa Rhyne, the General Assembly has discussed raising VTAG awards to $3,300 for eligible students next year.

Despite the fact that VTAG has not been

sufficient at keeping up with the rising cost of tuition, it has still benefitted many families across the state of Virginia.

“VTAG has been a financial tool for private school tuition. VTAG is invaluable to so many families paying for a private college education. We are very lucky to have elected officials who support it all over the commonwealth,” Vice President of Student Affairs Dr. Keith Moore said.

In order to show his appreciation for VTAG, on Jan. 23, 2017, Moore will take students to attend the Thanks For TAG Day in Richmond. Moore selects the students based on their availability, major, graduation year and extracurricular activities. The students who are selected will meet with General Assembly representatives from our district. Students also sit in the General Assembly room and have the option of visiting the restored Virginia Capitol Building.

Representing VWC are siblings Elizabeth and Nicholas Hipple. Moore described the trip as worthwhile. The students will meet with the members of the General Assembly and members of the senate.

Moore also said that increasing awareness of VTAG has become a mission for the

college since this grant has assisted in-state families with affording the total cost of tuition.

For those interested in applying for VTAG, Rhyne said, “The requirements for VTAG are, family residence in Virginia, parents pay state taxes, own a car and registered to vote. If the student fulfills these requirements, the student is automatically eligible for VTAG.” VTAG is simple to apply for. The deadline is July 31, 2017 for the 2017-2018 school year.

“Normally your tax dollars go towards a public school education in Virginia, but for a private college tuition, the student does not receive any state benefits from your tax dollars. VTAG is designed to help families pay for a portion of the final tuition costs.

The grant is set each year by the state of Virginia, which comes from your tax dollars and does not need to be refunded,’’ Rhyne said.

Since VTAG is not based on need, students do not have to fill out the FAFSA form for it.

MJ CONTINUED FROM FRONT

“It’s such a powerful thing. You don’t have to reinvent the wheel, you’re not going into something blind. You have, hopefully by that time, what other places have honed to be the best practices, and then you can pick and choose what those are and mold them to fit the community where you are,” Moore said.

According to Moore, students would have to register their use with health services and provide a note from a doctor or physician in the case of medical marijuana. In the case of recreational marijuana, any smoking devices or accessories would have to be registered with Residence Life, much like hookahs.

Besides state laws and precedents, the college also has to consider federal rulings. Even if Virginia legalizes marijuana, it is still illegal under federal law. Because the school receives federal funding, it is required to run drugprevention and education programs. It is unclear how the funding would be affected if the college allowed marijuana on campus.

Concerns about how marijuana may affect students’ academic performance are arising as well.

The University of Maryland School of Public Health recently released a report regarding the effects of substance use on college students. Marijuana was found to be the second-most used and abused substance on college campuses, the first being alcohol. The study found a host of negative side effects related to marijuana use, which become progressively worse over time. Among these

effects are declining grades, impaired focus and a tendency to skip or drop classes.

According to the 2016 Annual Fire and Safety Report, last year there were 23 controlled substance violations on campus, two of which resulted in arrest.

“It’s complex,” Greg West, chaplain of the college and head of Marlin Ministries, said. “I’m not one who would say this is a great evil or anything like that, but I think we’ve got to be really honest about the hazards and the potential for harm. We have to honestly evaluate and we have to educate.”

Addressing the issue of smoking spaces, West suggested designated smoking areas away from the general populace to avoid second-hand inhalation.

“It’s got to be handled well,” West said. “It’s one of those big questions in society— ‘Where do my rights end, and yours begin?’ We have to honor both.”

Some students prefer smoke-free areas, while others have medical conditions, such as asthma, that require them to avoid smoke inhalation all together.

Others choose to smoke, but may feel alienated if the designated areas are too isolated or that their rights are being infringed upon, if these concerns aren’t handled well, it could lead to problems with student retention and admission.

However, West also pointed out that marijuana could potentially be a great entrepreneurial and fundraising oppor-

tunity for the community.

“If it does become legalized, we will be having the biggest Cheetos sale in the history of campus ministry,” West said. “We’ll be ready for it.”

Students seem to regard the subject with the same levity.

“I think it’s pretty dope. I wish they’d legalize it. Four-twenty blaze it,” Bailey Foley said with a laugh.

Sophomore Nel Hart agreed.

“I don’t have any problem with it, provided no one gets hurt from it. As long as students get to their classes like they normally do, or don’t,” Hart said.

She joked that the worst of the effects seem to be the munchies and a hindered reaction time.

Virginia has already seen two measures that have tentatively begun the legalization process, though they aren’t well-known.

Earlier this year, the Virginia General Assembly approved a policy which will allow the cultivation of cannabis by pharmaceutical processors in the form of cannabidiol oil. The distribution of the oil is limited to people with intractable epilepsy.

In 2015, the Assembly passed HB 1445, a controversial law that would allow these same people to avoid conviction— but not arrest— for having specific cannabidiol oils with minimal amounts of THC. A total of 26 states and the District of Columbia have all legalized medical, recreational or both forms of marijuana.

LABOR CONTINUED FROM FRONT The DOL not only proposed a raise in salary in its new overtime rule, but also agreed to automatically update the salary threshold every three years in order to maintain coverage of the proper amount of workers. As reported in an opinions piece for USA Today, the salary threshold has not been changed since 1975, although some adjustments were made by the Bush administration in 2004.

The impact of this law will be widespread should it take effect. White House officials reported that extended overtime protection would cover 4.2 million more Americans. In addition, they expected, in completion, that wages would be increased by $12 billion over the next 10 years.

On Nov. 22, just nine days before the new rules were to take effect, Judge Amos Mazzant of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas ruled to temporarily halt the implementation of these rules in State of Nevada v. U.S. Department of Labor. The ruling prohibited the present enforcement of the Department of Labor’s new rule.

In response to the court’s ruling, the Department of Labor released a statement asserting that they “strongly disagree with the decision by the court” and they “remain confident in the legality of all aspects of the rule.” In closing, they remarked that they “are currently considering all of our legal options.”

A fact sheet released by the American Council on Education acknowledged the need to increase the current salary threshold, a belief echoed in a quote featured in Miller’s post by the president of the Council of Independent Colleges in Virginia. Although this change is determined as imperative, the extent of the proposed change would cause college students to “undoubtedly experience tuition increases and/or reduced services to help absorb the cost,” Miller wrote.

Miller attributed his disapproval of the proposed overtime rules to “Washington’s overreach.” The 21 states and various business groups that made up the coalition that filed the complaint agreed. According to an article written for Wage & Hour Insights, the coalitions claimed “that the DOL exceeded its authority under the FLSA” (Fair Labor Standards Act.) Mazzant’s ruling is simply preliminary, meaning it can be subject to immediate appeal.

A key factor in this uncertainty is President-elect Trump, whose populist and business ties conflict in regards to this issue. Those hoping Trump will stick to his populist interests argued “Trump could demonstrate his concern for hard-working Americans” by working for the rule. Those against the rule argued that the flexibility and benefits gained by salaried employees would be lost with the change, as employers would likely restrict employees from working overtime.

Regardless of the court ruling, some businesses are choosing to abide by the proposed overtime rule. According to an email sent to Boston Business Journal, TJX, the parent company of retail stores such as TJ Maxx, Marshalls and HomeGoods, “will move forward as planned in implementing the changes outlined in Department of Labor’s new rules.”

PLAN CONTINUED FROM FRONT

According to Miller, with the construction of the Greer Environmental Sciences Center, VWC’s campus will officially have its first quad. The library, Blocker Hall, the Monumental Chapel, the Jane P. Batten Student Center, Boyd Dining Hall and the Greer Environmental Sciences Center will work together to form the shape of a rectangle. In order to create a quad-like atmosphere, Miller mentioned extending the patio area off of Boyd Dining Hall where the John Wesley statue currently stands. This proposed extension would add an additional 4,200 square feet to the current structure, which would introduction of an abundance of outdoor seating options in this area.

Facing onto the quad, the plan is for a new glassy fitness center to be construct-

ed off the Jane P. Batten Student Center’s In terms of parking, the plan is for a new dance studio. The existing fitness center parking lot to be introduced by Blocker would be reserved for student athletes Hall that will accommodate an additional while this new fitness center would be open 70 cars. Creating a road from the Village for recreational IV parking lot past Blocker purposes and and onto the road that runs use by the stuto Godwin was additionally dent popula- Oxford Village will be affordable, part of the vision. The new tion at large. parking lot and loop will safe and well-maintained.”

Miller plans hopefully be completed by to add new June, as the school already SCOTT MILLER, signage at the has a donor interested in the VWC PRESIDENT campus’s enproject. trance as well as introducing black, decoAs for dormitories, Miller discussed rative fencing around the perimeter of the plans to expand Village IV to include three campus for security purposes. Ideally, con- new townhouses, which would allow Vilstruction on the fencing would begin this lage IV to accommodate an additional 64 spring or summer. students. Additionally, the construction of

“

pod-style dormitories on Rose Lawn in Village I was mentioned. Pod-style dormitories would include collections of eight bedrooms that share bathrooms, a kitchen and a common living area. The proposed pod-style dormitory would add an additional 128 beds to Village I. The college has also received funding for an outdoor track. The track would consist of eight lanes and include areas for high jump, long jump, triple jump and javelin throw among other track and field related activities. Miller stated that work on the track will likely commence next summer.

4

COMMUNITY CAMPUS countdown December 8th Life Matters: Dr. Craig Wansink Time: 12 p.m. - 12:50 p.m.

Location: Boyd Dining Center/ Shafer Room In “Life Matters,” members of the Wesleyan community offer autobiographical reflections on their emotional, intellectual and spiritual experiences.

If you wish, you may bring a bag lunch or purchase lunch in the dining center.

December 9th Food for Thought: Soup on Friday Celebration Time: 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Location: the Center for the Study of Religious Freedom office suite in Clarke Hall The occasion will celebrate the CSRF 20th Anniversary Religious Freedom Essay Contest winners. Sponsored by the Center for the Study of Religious Freedom.

December 9th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Time: 4:30 p.m.

Location: Campus Lawn Behind Godwin Hall Students, faculty and staff sing carols, light candles and drink hot cocoa before lighting the tree behind Godwin.

The ceremony celebrates the life of ’76 graduate and Navy Seal Lt. Slator Clay Blackiston III.

December 12th Reading Day Time: All day.

Location: VWC The day is set aside for students to prepare for final examinations. VWC provides study break events such as a spa in the Hospitality Suite. No classes or other mandatory events take place on this day.

CRIME BLOTTER

Thursday December 8, 2016 The Marlin Chronicle marlinchronicle.vwc.edu

White retires, leaving his legacy behind

BY CHRIS BATTLE cdbattle@vwc.edu

Captain Emanuel White’s office contains history not only of Virginia Wesleyan College but also of a man who has lived his life filled with color and vigor.

He has a grandfatherly demeanor, authoritative yet kind. Sitting in his creaky chair, he can’t believe that his impending retirement is newsworthy.

The Captain, also affectionately called “Daddy White,” says that it is time to move on from Virginia Wesleyan College after close to 18 years of service.

“Ever since I’ve been here, I’ve given 120 percent. And I think my 120 percent could probably be someone else’s 100 percent. To me, I went above and beyond the call of duty. I’m getting to the point where I can’t do that,” White said.

His age is a huge factor in his decision to retire.

“I’m 72 years old and the body is getting a little slow. So, I feel that the people here at the college, the students here at the college and the staff…I owe them more than that,” White said.

He also has in mind who he’d pick to be his successor.

“One of my favorite officers, simply because he does a good job and he knows the students well and the students respect him, I’m hoping that Randy Lott will be the guy to step up to where I used to be,” White said.

White looks forward to devoting time to his family and church after retirement.

“The next chapter in my life is to begin to enjoy life with my wife more. Also, to do some work in the church. I intend to

The

MARLIN CHRONICLE Editor-in-Chief

spend a couple days a week in the church answering phones if people need help, if they want to know where the church is, service times and people who come in and need food,” White said.

White intends to begin mentoring the young men of this generation.

“I still think that it’s important that the young men of this world, [have] someone to show them and talk to them and let them know how to be men,” White said.

White says he specifically would like to reach out to young men of color.

“I’m not a racist so it doesn’t matter to me if you’re black or white, but of course I particularly want to talk to young black men because every time I look at the T.V., I see them going to jail or I see young people completing college and then getting killed. It needs to stop and I think the only way that it is gonna stop is if we older guys step up,” White said.

He also acknowledges difficulties being a black man with an education.

“I do know it’s hard for black men, even with an education, so I want to help guide them,” White said.

Captain White values education. Although he dropped out in high school to help support his family, he credits the Navy for saving him, when he enlisted in 1962.

“The Navy was a sanctuary for me. I spent 30 years there. I got out as a Master Chief. There were really no jobs in Richmond, Virginia except working in the factories, and I wasn’t going to do that,” White said.

Like many young Virginia natives, he wanted to escape the confines of the Dogwood state.

Sarah Antozzi scantozzi@vwc.edu

Anthony Dellamura Marlin Chronicle

“I wanted to see the world and I wanted to get out of Virginia. But what ended up happening was instead of going out of Virginia, I got orders to come back to Virginia. Out of 30 years, I spent 24 years somewhere in Virginia,” White said.

White worked as a Navy recruiter for many years.

“I never lied to the young people who came in. I told them everything they needed to know so they wouldn’t go in expecting one thing, and then get another,” White said.

After 30 years of service, the Navy retired White and he moved on to the Norfolk Sheriff’s Department.

Now, he is retiring for the second time.

“I’ve been working for 56 years...I haven’t been out of a job for more than six months. That’s what scares me right now because even though I have plans to do other things, I’m just worried if I’m gonna go back to work again,” White said.

White is sure it is time for him to actually retire.

“Ten years ago, I was talking to an older guy and I was telling him I was thinking about retiring but I wasn’t sure. He told me to stop worrying about it because ‘one day you’re gonna wake up and say, why am I doing this.’ I was walking around here about five months ago, and I realized that I’m not doing what I usually do...

It’s time to go home, and I feel good about the decision,” White said.

Village II No description.

December 3 11:54 p.m.|Liquor Law Violation Village III No description.

December 4 2:18 a.m. |Liquor Law Violation Lone Pine Road No description.

December 5 1:00 a.m. |Assault Village I No description.

Laurissa Senecal ljsenecal@vwc.edu Jasmine Driggs jtdriggs@vwc.edu Opinion Editor Michael Willson mnwillson@vwc.edu The Weekender Editors Rebecca Lazzeri ralazzeri@vwc.edu Justin Smith jrsmith2@vwc.edu Sports Editors Hayley Heath hrheath@vwc.edu Corey King ckking1@vwc.edu Photo Editor Anthony Dellamura aadellamura@vwc.edu Illustrations Editors Britani Daley badaley@vwc.edu Valerie Miller vgmiller@vwc.edu

Victoria Laughlin vnlaughlin@vwc.edu

New management in Residence Life

BY LAURISSA SENECAL ljsenecal@vwc.edu

Of the five full-time staff working for VWC in the Office of Residence Life, three will be leaving their positions soon. Director of Residence Life McCarren Caputa, Associate Director of Residence Life Ashley Jones and Village Coordinator Jacqueline Scott will finish their last days over the next couple months.

According to Caputa, the departure of more than half of the Residence Life faculty at almost the same time is pure coincidence. Vice President of Student Affairs Keith Moore agrees.

“All of them have been great…one, two, three, it was just happenstance,” Moore said.

“We love living on campus, don’t get me wrong, but today it occurred to my children that they will have a front yard and a back yard and they got so

scantozzi@vwc.edu

2:20 a.m.|Liquor Law Violation

Community Editors

Online/Social Media Editors

excited,” McCarren said.

McCarren expressed that this decision is bittersweet for her because she characterizes her time spent at VWC as “wonderful” years for her and her family.

“Leaving students and people is always the hardest part,” McCarren said, her voice cracking.

The school has begun the interviewing process to fill these three positions.

“I would say, for all three positions we probably were in 40 to 50 applications. Of those, we have had some very qualified and promising candidates. We interviewed several of those and next week and the week after we are hosting them on campus,” Moore said.

McCarren wants students to remember that part of moving forward is change and that while it can be hard to imagine how someone who doesn’t know VWC could ever fill her role, nine years ago she was also brand new to VWC.

BY SARAH ANTOZZI

December 3

Ashley Kline aakline@vwc.edu

Captain White retires in January.

Campus remembers math professor

Courtesy|Thinkstock

News Editors Courtney Herrick clherrick@vwc.edu

Linda Partridge, a popular and valued VWC mathematics professor, died Nov. 20 of cancer. A memorial service for her will take place at 4 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 8, in the chapel, according to President Scott Miller. A reception will follow in the dining hall’s Shafer Room.

Students and professors alike reacted with sadness and good memories of Partridge, speaking of how clearly she showed her care for her students.

Junior math major Alexia Vassiliadis was a teaching assistant for her last spring, and wants to be a math professor.

“My mom is a math professor so I’ve always known I wanted to be one,” she said. However, she began to question whether she was really good enough. Partridge, Vassiliadis said, rejuvenated her confidence.

“She believed in me so much, so then I started to believe in myself again.”

Her favorite memory of Partridge is that she would start off class meetings in Calculus II by asking, “How is everybody? Anybody have anything fun to share?”

Vassiliadis said what people should know about Partridge is how much she loved every stu-

dent she knew. She would often still keep up with them after they finished her classes, and was interested in their lives.

Vassiliadis was able to visit her on a Friday a few weeks before she died. It was the weekend of the ODAC tournament which Vassiliadis, who is on the soccer team, would be playing in.

“She said, ‘I have people coming on Saturday, but I’m still going to probably watch your game,’” Vassiliadis said. “She was asking me about our students, how they were. She genuinely cared.”

Senior Josh Simmons is a double major in math and German. He took Calculus II with Partridge in spring 2014. Once she got a salad dressing mix and its package was in German. She got Simmons to translate it for her, and later told him, “That’s some of the best packaged dressing I ever had in my life. I stapled [the recipe] into my recipe book so I’ll always have it. Thank you.”

“She knew how to make the students feel special... and her favorite thing was to call them a rock star,” math professor Kathy Ames said.

“She’d bring candy” on some days, said junior Matt Kirkbride, who was a teaching assistant for

her last spring. He said she would announce interesting little facts about cats at the end of class “to get the participation up a little bit.” She also brought snack cakes to class on Pi Day. Knowing Kirkbride was interested in becoming a math teacher, Partridge talked with him about how the educational system failed some students, sending them to college less prepared than they should be for college math.

“It really saddened her when there were certain students who weren’t getting it,” he said. “I’m sure that all professors really do care, but I’ve never seen one who made it that clear.”

Read more about Professor Linda Partridge online at www.vwc.edu/chronicle.

Blake Partridge | Courtesy

Linda Partridge taught at VWC for 27 years.

Brandon Gilchrist bjgilchrist@vwc.edu Copy Editor

Laurissa Senecal ljsenecal@vwc.edu

Advertising Representative Courtney Herrick clherrick@vwc.edu Advisor

Dr. Lisa Lyon Payne lpayne@vwc.edu

The Marlin Chronicle is the official student newspaper of Virginia Wesleyan College. Staff meetings are held every Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. in Batten 217.

Signed submissions are welcome, but subject to the discretion of the editor. Letters are not edited for content, but may be edited for length. The views and opinions expressed in this newspaper may not necessarily reflect the views of the entire staff of The Marlin Chronicle or Virginia Wesleyan College.

The Marlin Chronicle Virginia Wesleyan College 1584 Wesleyan Drive Norfolk, VA 23502 757.455.3311

“As a former collegiate student newspaper editor, professional journalist and long-time advisor for the Society of Collegiate Journalists, I understand the role and value of student media at a liberal arts college. Virginia Wesleyan College proudly supports the editorial independence and press freedom of studentedited publications. We believe that student editors have the authority to make all content decisions and consequently, assume full responsibility for decisions they make.”

--Scott D. Miller, Ph.D President

5

OPINIONS

Thursday December 8, 2016 The Marlin Chronicle marlinchronicle.vwc.edu

Experiencing racism in LGBTQ dating sites

BY CHRIS BATTLE cdbattle@vwc.edu

In the sixteenth year of the 21st century, online dating has become a social norm.

However, in the LGBTQ community with a specific emphasis among gay men, online dating has been a part of the routine for the better part of the last decade. With this, plus the ideal image of a perfect man crafted by mainstream media as well as gay based media, culture created an interesting and rather regressive scenario for the future of dating.

As I was coming out to family and friends in 2012, I began to long for the affection and intimacy that so many of my heterosexual friends had experienced or

were beginning to experience. I was on the edge of 18 when I was told by one of my colleagues about a dating app. I was fascinated by this app solely dedicated to the purpose of bringing men in your area together. I was slightly fearful due to being from the generation that was endlessly told that talking to strangers online can lead to a milk carton portrait, however I wasn’t paralyzed by this thought.

I scrolled through the endless sea of men and read countless “about me” paragraphs laced with everything from jokes and sarcasm to borderline solicitation and not safe for work language that could make the crassest person blush. As I continued to look and gaze at these profiles, I began to find one common phrase.

“No Blacks, No Feminine men” I was surprised to see such a phrase in use in the new millennium where we were raised to believe that we’re all equal. I started to call into question my own appearance and wonder if I was enough for anyone.

I had these thoughts for a few months and by month eight, I began to realize that part of it all was the fact that my skin color

would be the only thing that a guy could see. I thought that men would not be interested in getting to know my soul or my heart and not interested to know what’s going through my head but rather want to know if I would hook up with them.

I then began to observe the common image of a gay man within media and found that the straight-acting white male with a toned, muscle man body was the ideal. It was abundantly clear that I did not fit this image and this made me feel discouraged.

It became clear to me that if I did date someone, I would have, for lack of a better phrase, a limited pool to choose from. As a black gay man, self-hate became a potion I started to sip frequently at this point.

Over the course of the last two years, I’ve started to realize that it’s not anything that has to do with me. On the heels of the Black Lives Matter movement, I started to consider the psychological and sociological aspects of why this racial discrimination is passed as a preference in mostly white gay men. Per research conducted by Denton Callander, Christy E. Newman and Martin Holt, authors of “Is Sexual Racism Really Racism? Distinguishing Attitudes

Toward Sexual Racism and Generic Racism Among Gay and Bisexual Me,” most racial pickiness that is commonly classified as “just a preference” is solely based on the racist prejudices built from society.

Per a study conducted in May 2011 by the three aforementioned people, 2,177 gay and bisexual men in Australia took part in an online survey that measured what they considered online sexual racism. Though most of the men surveyed carried diverse perspectives, they were also overwhelmingly tolerant of online sexual racism. Almost all of the attitudes that promoted this harmful behavior were associated with stereotypes brought on from society and prior exposure.

As a black gay man, it’s always disheartening to be dismissed due to assumptions and prejudices. With recent events regarding civil rights, I realize that there are more important matters to discuss.

However, it is important to truly analyze what the basis is for why you have these beliefs. The cold truth might remove the rose-colored glasses that protect you from recognizing your internalized racism

Trump overreacts to ‘Hamilton’ message to Pence

BY MICHAEL WILLSON mnwillson@vwc.edu

The hit Broadway musical “Hamilton” is creating quite a stir in politics. Only this time, it’s not about Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr.

“Hamilton” is about the life of the first secretary of the treasury Alexander Hamilton. The story is told through hip-hop and has a diverse cast made up of actors from a variety of different ethnicities. The idea is that the cast represents what America looks like today. The show is one of the most successful Broadway musical of the 21st century. It won 11 Tonys with a record number of 16 nominations and tickets selling out until January. This is the show that everyone wants to see.

One person who went to see it was Vice President-elect Mike Pence who saw it on Nov. 19. I was surprised to hear that a Republican like Pence, the same man who wrote an op-ed piece about how the animated film “Mulan” was part of Disney’s liberal propaganda, would see a show as blatantly liberal as “Hamilton.” The cast must have been surprised by this as well but saw it as a perfect opportunity to give him a message.

During curtain call, as Pence was leaving the theater, Brandon Victor Dixon, who plays Aaron Burr in the show, announced that Pence was in the audience. The audience started booing, and Dixon responded by telling the audience to stop and be respectful. He then told Pence about the cast’s concern about the President-elect Donald Trump.

“We, sir — we — are the diverse America who are alarmed and anxious that your new administration will not protect us, our planet, our children, our parents, or defend us and uphold our inalienable rights,” Dixon said.

“We truly hope that this show has inspired you to uphold our American values and to work on behalf of all of us.”

I thought that Dixon was very well spoken. He confronted Pence without attacking him. He provided the cast’s message while being firm, but respectful. There was nothing inappropriate with what Dixon said. Trump, however, did not see it that way. He responded by doing what he does best, posting a tweet.

“Our wonderful future V.P. Mike Pence was harassed last night at the theater by the cast of Hamilton, cameras blazing,” Trump said. “This should not happen!”

Trump sent out another tweet only eight minutes later.

“The Theater must always be a safe and special place,” Trump said. “The cast of Hamilton was very rude last night to a very good man, Mike Pence. Apologize!”

When I saw what Trump posted, I had to keep myself from screaming, which is what I do in response to most of his tweets. First of all, the cast did not harass Pence. They were exercising their rights as citizens by voicing their concerns. Not only that, but Trump, who has bragged about sexually harassing women, is the last person to be calling someone out for harassment. Secondly, the theatre is not a safe space. As someone who has done theatre, I can confirm that theatre is competitive, exhausting and pushes you to your limits. It is also a place to bring controversial issues to light. The musical “Rent” is about AIDS. The play “The Laramie Project” is about homophobia. “Hamilton” is about diversity in America.

Ironically, Pence said in an interview with “Fox News Sunday” that he was not offended.

“I did hear what was said from the stage. I can tell you I wasn’t offended by what was said,” Pence said. “I will leave to others whether that was the appropriate venue to say it.”

Trump proved once again that he does not care about diversity. The cast of “Hamilton” was very respectful and

Trump responded by throwing a Twitter temper tantrum.

Fortunately, Trump’s reaction has not seemed to affect ticket sales. The following week, the show broke the Broadway record for making the most money in a single week with $3.3 million.

You can cry all you want, Trump, but the cast of “Hamilton” and its patrons are not going to step down from what they believe in. They are not throwing away their shot.

The final exam season takes its toll on all of us students and drains away a lot of our energy due to the intense study sessions we tend to get into in preparation for the exams. However, a question I hear time and time again is: how do you study for final exams? Everyone has their own study methods and there are a variety of answers to this question.

An excellent first step to studying for exams is finding a place to concentrate and study. Our school has many wonderful areas to study. An obvious example is the library, which has many resources at your disposal including computers, books and a library staff ready and willing to help guide to the resources you need. For those of you who want peace and quiet while studying, the library has five study rooms as well as a classroom size study area for those who wish to study with larger groups.

Other great places to study include the common areas in the different residential villages, the Learning Center, the Marlins Ministries lounge or even outside at one of the picnic tables during good weather. Having the perfect study space allows for awesome study sessions. If you try to study in a distracting environment, you most likely will not get very much accomplished.

A common, yet somewhat cliché, way to deal with studying for exams is studying in groups with your fellow classmates. This study tip usually is very effective because everyone of your classmates has the exact same goal as you: to do well on the exams no matter what it takes. You should not study alone, even if you know the material for the exam, you could help your fellow classmates if they are struggling. You never know, your classmates could remind you of pieces of information that you forgot about. As I said earlier, you and your classmates have the same goal.

One study tip I cannot stress enough is taking advantage of the Learning Center we have on campus. This one area has tutors for almost all subjects taught on this

campus and even if there is not a specific tutor for a particular class that you are in, you can still ask for assistance and the staff will point you in the right direction. The best part about the Learning Center is the fact that most, if not all, tutors working there are students who achieved a solid A average in the subject they are tutoring for. So they are more than qualified and are willing to sit down and help with any problems you are having with your class. Another cool aspect of the Learning Center is the staff working alongside the students, they are always willing to answer any questions you may have about the Learning Center and its vast amount of resources.

The Learning Center is by far probably one of the most helpful resources that we as students can have at our disposal. When you think about it, you are not even paying for the tutoring, they are giving you help for free, all you have to do is take it.

Finally, do not be afraid to ask your professors for assistance. I have heard professors offer help consistently to students, though not many seem to listen. Your instructor is the most valuable resource that you can have. My past professors have told me time and time again that they wished their students would come to them for help. You are more likely to do well on the exams if you swallow your pride and lust for independence and just ask your professor more help. Your instructors are always willing to assist you in times of academic struggles. Doing this also allows you to build a connection with your professor.

Doing this is also excellent preparation for the real world, where, if you mess up on something that you could have asked for help on, it could lead to your downfall.

You cannot expect to move forward in this world if you are constantly winging every task you are given. You do not have to follow the study tips I have listed here but I firmly believe they will be a great asset to you in the future.

Val Miller|Marlin Chronicle

The best ways you can study for your final exams

BY JONATHAN JOYNER jrjoyner@vwc.edu

Britani Alyse|Marlin Chronicle

6 The Marlin Chronicle | marlinchronicle.vwc.edu

Thursday, December 8, 2016

The great mc debate: Should Athletes get early Registration?

LUKE CHIASSON

MIRANDA FEIN

On a campus as small as Virginia Wesleyan College, registering for classes as soon as possible is a must. With approximately 1,400 students enrolled and generally small class sizes, courses fill up fast, especially during late morning and early afternoon time slots.

Early Registration is a benefit given to students in the Honors and Scholars program, giving them a head start on scheduling. It is easy to see why many students outside the program would like to have the benefit of early registration but if the college allowed just anyone to take advantage of it, then what benefit would the option truly have?

This perk is not just given to our Honors and Scholars, it is earned. Students accepted into the program have proven themselves academically before even applying. Once a part of the program, a Wesleyan Scholar is expected to maintain a 3.2 GPA and graduate with a 3.5, complete six honors courses and perform 40 hours of recorded community service.

Student athletes are hard working individuals as well, balancing schoolwork with practices and games. However, allowing all athletes early registration over other students is not necessary.

The most recent Marlin Student Athlete Handbook provides a set of guidelines regarding scheduling conflicts between academics and athletics.

“Students who are participating in intercollegiate athletics should not miss class, seminar or lab for practice,” the handbook says.

These guidelines also acknowledge the fact that some required classes may extend beyond the early afternoon. “[Students] are expected to keep to their academic commitments and then attend practices as soon as possible,” the handbook says.

Though this may not be a student athlete’s favorite option, the Student Athlete Handbook does provide clear expectations of students when it comes to scheduling that allows registering at the typically scheduled opening completely manageable.

In addition to this, the academic expectations of athletes are not nearly as demanding as those of the Honors and Scholars program, which only requires that athletes carry a minimum of 12 credit hours through their season and a 1.8 GPA their first two semesters of college or a 2.0 GPA for their remaining semesters.

Athletes are not the only students with commitments outside of their academics.

Many students work on and off campus, volunteer, have internships and so on. Allowing student athletes the ability to register early because of their participation in a sport suggests their commitments outweigh the commitments of other students who cannot register early. The college would have to consider the needs of all students enrolled if they were to make an exception to include student athletes as well.

The end of the semester is one of the most stressful times for college students across the country. Finals week is looming on top of semester long projects and wanting to just go home for the holiday season but before all that stress kicks in, the stress of selecting courses for next semester comes.

“Will that class be open?”

“Should I take this course?”

“Will I be able to graduate on time?”

These are all questions that students ask themselves while going through the process but student athletes have to ask themselves even more questions.

“Will this class interfere with practice, games, or workouts?”

“Will coach be mad if I have to miss practice for class?”

While every coach supports their athletes’ academic careers, missing valuable practice time hurts the individual and the team. Personally, I hated leaving baseball practice early every Tuesday last spring for my night class but I did not have a choice because the class was required for my major and only met at that time. For this reason, I believe that student athletes should have first choice when it comes to registering for classes.

Speaking for myself and many other athletes on campus that I have talked to, the balancing act of academics, athletics, work and a social life are very challenging and the less control we have of a situation, the more difficult it can be to balance everything. Class attendance is huge at VWC because of the structure of the school. For student athletes to be forced to take certain classes because the one they wanted is closed, or does not fit in their athletic schedule, is unfair.

In a recent email to my team, my coach said, “DO NOT schedule any classes for the spring after 2:00PM. If there is a requirement that ONLY meets at that time, you must check with me prior to registering. This is to ensure that you do not set yourself up for failure in the academic process.”

If the athletes have pre-registration, they will be able to do their best to set themselves up for academic success because of minimized missed class time. I totally recognize that non-student athletes need to take classes to graduate so they should still be able to take those classes and not have student athletes taking up all the spots but there needs to be a change in order to accommodate the athletes that make up a large part of the VWC community. I challenge the VWC Student Athletic Advisory Committee (SAAC) to take a closer look at this and see if change can happen.

We need a Christmas tree, not a Christmas branch

BY COREY KING

ckking1@vwc.edu

This is my fourth year attending Virginia Wesleyan College and we have been lighting up the same little Charlie Brown like Christmas tree ever since my freshman year.

It is time. We need an actual tree for the Tree Lighting Ceremony.

If we are going to have a big community gathering like we do, with all of the clubs and such, we should at least get a real tree. Virginia Wesleyan College wants us to take pride in our school but it’s hard to take pride in a Christmas tree that looks as though it is one hard gust of wind away from turning into a tumbleweed that the groundskee-

pers have to pick up. I understand the concept of planting a tree and watching it grow. Once it has fully grown, the campus around it will have something to be proud of but give us a tree for the time being that is actually worth seeing and cherishing. I just do not see the pleasure in caroling around a tree that people in the back can not even see.

I’m not saying get a 7-foot-30-inch-wide Rockefeller Center tree, but we need something bigger than we have now. It looks like we planted a branch in the ground and we want everyone to celebrate it.

As a senior, I want to be able to celebrate the Christmas holiday while looking at an amazingly lit, well-decorated Christmas tree.

I know as a student I would not mind donating some money to get a good quality Christmas tree for this occasion and celebration of Lt. Slator Clay Blackiston lll ’76.

I’m quite sure there is a Christmas tree seller that would partner with our school and potentially even donate a good quality tree that we can turn into something that everyone can admire in awe and be proud that they are a part of this community. I just feel as a campus and as a community, we should have something that looks really beautiful and sets us apart from other campuses.

Val Miller|Marlin Chronicle

New Year’s resolutions: keep them or leave them

BY JONATHAN JOYNER jrjoyner@vwc.edu

The year of 2016 is nearly over, and we are at that time when people are formulating their New Year’s resolutions. A New Year’s resolution is a promise you make to and for yourself at the start of every year. These promises can include anything really. Common resolutions can be improving yourself physically through exercise, taking a trip or finding a relationship. This tradition has been a part of our culture for generations. The only

Britani Alyse | Marlin Chronicle

problem with these resolutions is that most people do not keep them.

People normally find some excuse to not follow the example they set for themselves. I have heard many different reasons, ranging from the classic “I am just too busy,” to the obvious “I just do not care enough.” The excuses we make are usually consistent every year. I myself am an example of this because every year I make a vow to make straight A’s in all classes and to improve my physical abilities. However, like many people, I falter and forget about my resolutions and continue on with my life the same I did in the previous year. These excuses are not a good a thing, it means that we are not disciplined enough to follow our own goals, which should be the easiest to follow. It is really sad when you think about it because for college students, these resolutions can be excellent ways to improve ourselves and the habits we have.

Luckily, there are ways to ways to keep your resolutions. A good idea to start with is making a modest goal and not one that reaches too high.

For example, a lot of people these days say they wish to lose weight and create these extreme goals without realizing the level of difficulty that comes with it.

You should start with a modest goal of perhaps 10 to 20 pounds

instead of 40 to 50 and then work your way up to higher goals as you go along. Another example is the goal of many students, no matter what level of education you are in, to reach straight A’s in a semester. This is an excellent goal to have but if you are a serious procrastinator on your work, then this goal will prove to be difficult.

Starting with a goal of changing your study habits would be good, then going for straight A’s once you find the method to your madness for doing well in your classes.

Your resolutions do not have to be extravagant and grand. Just making a goal to take a trip, spending more time with family and loved ones or even just improving your mentality to be more positive are all good goals.

We all have goals we want to achieve but we need to get to these goals in modest steps or we may never reach them. Starting small and working you way up is not a bad thing. As I said back at the beginning, I used to make all these crazy goals I knew I could not reach all at once. I said I wanted straight A’s and to become stronger mentally and physically. I made these goals without making checkpoints along the way.

That is why this coming year my resolutions will be to improve my study habits (i.e. trying to fix my procrastination issue) and going to the rock wall to climb and get a workout at least once a week. I chose the rock wall because it tests your physical ability and your strategic skills as well. For us students, doing this will help us quite a bit because it will improve our self-discipline and self-confidence at the same. You do not want to make a goal that you cannot reach because when it does not work out, you get depressed and down on yourself. So just go easy on yourself and set goals that have structure to them.

7

SPORTS

Thursday December 8, 2016 The Marlin Chronicle marlinchronicle.vwc.edu

Womens basketball splits last two games

BY ANDREAS COMBOS ajcombos@vwc.edu

The Virginia Wesleyan College women’s basketball team edged Methodist 7775 for its third straight win in a road contest Wednesday, Nov. 3 in Fayetteville, North Carolina.

Junior NiAsia Caldwell led the Marlins in scoring, posting a career-high 31 points on 12 of 19 shooting, including five three-pointers. It marked the second time in three games that a Marlin had a 30-pointperformance as sophomore Jayla Harris scored 35 points against Ferrum College Nov. 22.

Caldwell was perfect through the first quarter and the beginning of the second quarter, making her first five baskets to score 12 of VWC’s first 13 points. Harris, the team’s leading scorer thus far this season, finished with evening 23 points while junior Naeemah Morris earned a team-high six rebounds.

Starting the game for the Marlins were Caldwell, Harris, Morris, Sophomore Amanda Gerni and Freshman Megan Sherman.

The Marlins got off to a slow start, falling behind 18-11 after the first quarter following a 14-4 run by the Monarchs during which VWC was 2-12 shooting. However, the Marlins quickly recovered from their deficit with a strong second quarter, outscoring the Monarchs 26-15 and surging ahead to take a 37-33 lead at the half.

The lead at the break was one that the Marlins never lost. The closest MU came to retaking the lead was midway through the fourth quarter, tying the game 63-63 after a layup by Sydney Bryan. The Marlins quickly snuffed out the possibility of losing their lead with back-to-back three pointers, which lifted them to the finish. The Monarchs had a chance in the final minute, trailing by four points, but missed four straight free-throw attempts.

Overall, for the night, the Marlins finished at 39.1 percent shooting (27-69) from the floor

Department of Sports Information |Courtesy Kristin Rempas defends against opponent coming up the court. including 35.5 percent on three point attempts (11-31). Both numbers exceeded the Marlins’ season averages. From the free-throw line, VWC shot 46.2 percent (12-26).

For Methodist, Christian Sanders led the Monarchs with 20 points while in addition to eight rebounds.

Lillian Geehring followed behind with 15 points while Jalisa Campbell finished with a double-double earning 11 points and 11 rebounds. The

home team finished with a season-best 50.0 percent shooting (22-44), including 57.1 percent in the second half, and made 64.1 percent (27-44) of their free throw attempts.

As the Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC) play starts to heat up, Virginia Wesleyan College is looking to improve upon last year’s 6-10 conference record under the leadership of Head Coach Stephany Dunmyer who is in her 14th year coaching at the

Ashlei Gates |Marlin Chronicle

school. The Marlins will aim to reestablish their success from the 2014-15 season when they won their first-ever conference title.

Wednesday night’s game against Methodist (1-6) was the Marlins’ second game in a stretch of five straight road games.

Virginia Wesleyan College women’s basketball 4-2 overall, 1-0 in conference traveled to Randolph College who is 2-3 overall and 0-1 in conference, Saturday Dec. 3.

Virginia Wesleyan College coming off of a good team win was looking to make easy work of the Wildcats who were 12th in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference heading into the game with the Marlins.

The first quarter of the contest was a high scoring affair, heading into the second quarter the score was 24-20 with Randolph ahead.

The game continued to stay tight throughout the rest of the first half, ending with the score tied 43-43. The second half was more of the same, the game was tight all the way to the end, with Randolph shutting down the Marlins for the last 32 second of the game and sealing the win 74-72.

The real story about this game was the great game had by a Marlin. VWC’s sophomore guard Amanda Gerni had the biggest 3-point scoring barrage in years. Gerni connected for 10-14 from three-point land giving her 30 on the night.

With this scoring output, Gerni tied the ODAC record for most 3-pointers made in a game. The other record holders are Eastern Mennonite’s Emily Mullet who connected for 10 in a game against Shenandoah in 2000-2001, and Mullet did it again against Washington and Lee. “It feels really good to know that I am in the record books here at Wesleyan,” Mullet said.

Gerni,with those 10 3-pointers set a new school record. The previous holder was VWC’s Jill Weston. Gerni has set the bar high.

Marlins run well in season opener at Christopher Newport

BY COREY KING ckking1@vwc.edu

Virginia Wesleyan College opened its track season at Christopher Newport University this past weekend. The Marlins as a team ran well with freshmen stepping up in different events giving them a good new look for the season.

Jayla Cross was one of those freshmen who stood out as a leader of her team in the 200 meter race. She posted a time of 27.96 in her first ever collegiate track meet. Marissa Coombs continued to be a top competitor in the ODAC. Coombs finished third in her 3000 meter race. Beating the fourth-place competitor by a solid 11 seconds. The men’s team had many participants from their team compete but none of them made it into the finals.

A.J. Ramirez finished 20th out of 64 other runners, Karium Dunn ran the 400 meter in 52.92 and Trey White ran the best race of the day for the Marlins. He placed second in the 800 meter run with a time of 1:58.04.

The Marlins field team did solid work as well at the opening meet at CNU. In his first ever collegiate competition, Andrew

the

DUGOUT Does size give you

an advantage on the basketball court?

BY COREY KING

Virginia Wesleyan College over the years has accumulated hundreds and hundreds of victories with an undersized team. In the past, the Marlins normally carry multiple guards and a handful of post players. I, for one, believe that could be the one chink in the Marlins’ armor.

The Marlins contend for the ODAC Championship year in and year out. The only time a Marlin team runs into trouble is when they are faced with an actual college post player. Not because of a lack of talent but due to lack of size.

The Marlin post players are very athletic finishers and have great athletic ability.

For example, Kaelin Poe, forward, is 6’6’’ and 180 pounds and can absolutely jump out of the gym. But when faced with a 6’6-6’7 220 pound opponent, he may run into trouble due to the fact he is smaller in weight than the other player.

We saw the Marlins shine in the TipOff Tournament because the other teams in that tournament played like the Marlins do. They run a four guard one forward set.

With the mentality of who can get down the floor the fastest or who can make the most 3-point jump shots.

I’m not knocking that style of play by any means. It has worked for the Marlins for years, even dating back to when the Marlins won the NCAA Division III National Championship. They won with average to undersized post players. It also works for teams with an abundance of shooters. Such as a team like the Warriors. The Warriors play that run and gun undersized, who can get down the floor first style offense.

We as the fans of Marlin basketball have also witnessed the other half of this argument. Which are when the Marlins are faced with big-men that are fundamentally sound and know how to draw fouls and get points.

When the Marlins took on the Seagulls of Salisbury University a few weeks ago, we saw first hand what could happen. The Seagulls ran a traditional two guard three forward set against the Marlins four guard one forward set. Despite the effort shown by the post players for the Marlins, the Seagulls Wyatt Smith, a 6’6 220 pound forward, still managed a double-double in the game. Smith ended the game with 13 points and 12 rebounds.

The game that followed the Salisbury game was the Marlins taking on Emory and Henry. The post play was again something that stood out. Emory and Henry’s Alic Wynn gave the Marlins trouble down low, dropping in 20 and grabbing 7 boards.

That does not seem like a lot of rebounds but being able to work the ball down low and get 20 points off of high quality looks is something that could help any team on the offensive end of the floor.

Imagine if we had another player that could complement the athleticism of Kaelin down low. With a bigger body alongside Kaelin, we would potentially be able to dominate the game on the glass as well as control the post a lot more efficiently.

The Marlins would take their team play and abilities to another level, while also growing their offense to allow more weapons. Adding a big man who demands attention could open up many more openshot opportunities for the many shooters that the Marlins have on their roster.

Valerie Miller |Marlin Chronicle

Bjorklund had a good day in the long jump event. He jumped 19’ 11”, which left him right in the middle of the competition.

He placed 13th out of the 26 competitors.

Another new Marlin, Antonio Boone, competed for the first time as a VWC athlete. Boone came to VWC by way of Richard Bland Community College. He ran the best time for the Marlins in the 60 meter preliminaries with a time of 9.37. Boone also took part in the long jump where he posted a 19’ 0.75.”

The distance team, led by Trevor Maloney, posted decent numbers in their first meet of the season. Maloney led 10 Marlins in the mile, posting a time of 4:38.91. That time landed him 18th out of 42 competitors.

The Marlins shone in the 4x400 relay sending three teams into the running blocks and having one team finish near the top.

The team of Ramirez, Frye, White and Dunn ran a nice time of 3:33.82. That time put them in fifth.

The track and field team will be back in action again on January 13. They will be competing in the CNU Quad at the Freeman Center in Newport News, on the campus of CNU. Valerie Miller |Marlin Chronicle

8 The Marlin Chronicle | marlinchronicle.vwc.edu

AT A GLANCE Men’s Basketball: DEC 17 2:00 PM VS. WESLEY DEC 30 6:00 PM VS. MARY WASHINGTON JAN 01 4:00 PM AT CHRIS. NEWPORT JAN 04 7:00 PM AT RANDOLPH-MACON JAN 07 4:30 PM VS. WASHINGTON AND LEE JAN 11 7:00 PM AT EAST. MENNONITE JAN 13 VS. CNU QUAD @ AT CNU JAN 14 4:30 PM VS. LYNCHBURG JAN 18 7:00 PM AT BRIDGEWATER (VA.) JAN 21 3:00 PM AT SHENANDOAH JAN 25 8:00 PM VS. RANDOLPH-MACON JAN 28 3:00 PM AT GUILFORD

Women’s Basketball: DEC 08 6:00 PM AT APPRENTICE DEC 30 2:00 PM AT CHRIS. NEWPORT JAN 02 6:00 PM VS. N.C. WESLEYAN JAN 04 7:00 PM VS. SHENANDOAH JAN 07 2:00 PM VS. GUILFORD JAN 10 7:00 PM AT RANDOLPH-MACON JAN 14 2:00 PM VS. HOLLINS JAN 16 6:00 PM VS. STEVENSON JAN 18 7:00 PM AT WASHINGTON AND LEE JAN 20 VS. CAPTAINS INVITATIONAL @ AT CNU JAN 21 VS. CAPTAINS INVITATIONAL @ AT CNU JAN 21 2:00 PM VS. ROANOKE JAN 25 5:30 PM VS. LYNCHBURG JAN 28 2:00 PM AT EMORY & HENRY

Track and Field: JAN 13 VS CNU QUAD @ CNU

JAN 20 VS. CAPTAINS INVITATIONAL @ CNU

Thursday, December 8, 2016

Marlins drop ODAC Opener

BY LUKE CHASSION lachiasson@vwc.edu

The Virginia Wesleyan College Men’s Basketball team lost its Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC) opener to Emory and Henry College with a final score of 79-77. Taking rank 16, the Marlins could not connect on a last-second 3-pointer shot that would have won the game against the Wasps (4-1/1-0).

The loss snaps an 11-game win streak for the Marlins against the Wasps that dated back to the 2008-2009 season. It is also the first time Emory and Henry defeated the Marlins at The Fish Tank since the 19971998 season.

The Marlins’ struggles from the freethrow line continued during the game, shooting 16-24 from the charity stripe. The performance brings their season average to 65.9%. The team also shot 7-26 from three-point land, which makes its season average 31%, which is 4% lower than its season average from a season ago.

Despite the loss, Assistant Coach Quinn McDowell and the rest of the coaching staff continue to be impressed with sophomore guard Josh Williams, who scored a careerhigh 16 points in 20 minutes coming off the bench.

“Josh has been a great spark off the bench for us this year so far. As a coaching staff, we are always looking for guys that can come in and impact the game in a positive way. Josh has the ability to make shots and he’s given us another threat coming off the bench early in the season,” McDowell said.

The loss to Emory and Henry made it back-to-back losses after suffering a 6068 set back to Salisbury University. The coaching staff was disappointed with the performance against E&H coming off the loss, but not all was negative. The team is taking the two-game skid as a learning experience.

“We didn’t feel like we responded the way champions need to respond after taking a tough loss. Salisbury and Emory and Henry were two good teams that used their physical style of play to attack us and impose their will on our style of game instead of the other way around. Our focus for the past week has been trying to get back to our identity as a team that is going to pressure other teams and use our athleticism to force turnovers and take them out of what they want to do,” McDowell said.

Department of Sports Information| Courtesy Sophomore Keijon Honore passes to a teammate. and was only one of three Marlins who The Marlin Maniacs, VWC basketball’s scored off the bench. Kaelin Poe finished fan section, has had a big presence at all three rebounds shy of a double-double home games and will not give up on the with 14 points. The rest of the Marlins team despite the loss. The team has a lot scored 19 points. of experience with seven seniors but also The Marlins matched up with North rosters 11 underclassmen. This mixture Carolina Wesleyan in a non-conference can lead to early season struggles but can matchup on Nov. 28. They brought home turn quickly as the underclassmen get an 83-63 win over the Battling Bishops. more comfortable.

Once again, Khory Moore led the Marlins “In Dave Macedo we trust. It is still early in scoring with 23 points. Kaelin Poe led in the year, and I really like the effort and the team with 11 rebounds while Keijon enthusiasm of the team so far. I am excited Honore tallied the game high in assists to see the boys play every home game. with five. Adrian Moore led NC Wesleyan There are some tough games ahead, but with 21 points, five rebounds, two assists, they are all games that we can win, as the and two steals. team says,” super fan Evan Hockensmith The Marlins headed out on the road to said. face Roanoke College this past weekend.

Coach McDowell echoes the message of The Marlins bounced back in the ODAC Hockensmith. standings by getting the win against the “We want our program to be the Maroons, by the final score of 71-63. The most consistent program in the country scoring was led by senior Tim Jones with every year. We want to compete for 21 and sophomore Keijon Honore with 18. championships every season, and this year is no different. Our team has the talent and ability to do some special things and we are working every day to achieve the consistency we need to make those dreams a reality,” McDowell said.

FOR MORE SPORTS Senior Khory Moore led all scorers with FOLLOW: @MarlinSports 28 points while Allc Wynn lead the Wasps with 20 points. Williams added 16 points

Score Board Men’s Basketball

Nov 18 vs. Frostburg St. W, 78-62 Nov 19 vs. Concordia W, 101-94 Nov 22 vs. Salisbury L, 68-60 Nov 26 vs. Emory & Henry L, 79-77 Nov 28 vs. @ N.C. Wesleyan W, 83-63 Dec 4 at Roanoke W, 71-63

Women’s Basketball

Nov 19 vs. Averett Nov 20 at Mary Washington Nov 22 vs. Ferrum Nov 27 at Hollins Nov 30 at Methodist Dec 3 at Randolph

W, 64-63 L, 73-53 W, 65-63 W, 60-33 W, 77-75 L, 74-72 Ashlei Gates | Marlin Chronicle

Soccer community grieves Chapecoense

BY HENRY TASKER hltasker@vwc.edu

Associação Chapecoense de Futebol, known as Chapecoense, was scheduled to compete in the championship game of the Copa Sudamericana, a continental competition for South American soccer.

Chapecoense was set to play Colombian heavyweight Atletico Nacional. Sadly, the plane ran out of fuel and crashed. Of the 76 people on board, only six people survived the crash. Aviation officials said three players, two crew members and a journalist who was accompanying the team were the only people who survived. After rising through the Brazilian divisions in almost consecutive seasons, the championship match was meant to be 42-year-old goalkeeper Nivaldo’s 300th and final game. Atletico Nacional have asked the officials of the Copa Sudamericana to name Chapecoense the champions in a great show of respect and sportsmanship.

Nelson Almeida | FOX SPORTS Chapecoense team poses for a group photo. The Brazillian team was planning to advance in the Copa Sudamericana 2016 tournament.

THEWEEKENDER

DECEMBER 8, 2016

PAGE 9

NIGHT UNDER THE LIGHTS The Oceanfront’s annual holiday attraction is back for the season

Miranda Fein | Marlin Chronicle

The light displays illuminate the boardwalk at McDonald’s Holiday Lights at the Beach.

BY MIRANDA FEIN mlfein@vwc.edu

Virginia Beach’s Oceanfront transformed from a sandy vacation getaway to a winter wonderland on Nov. 18 when McDonald’s Holiday Lights at the Beach returned to the boardwalk.

An array of animated lights stretches from 2nd St. to 34th St., illuminating the night with dancing sea creatures and classic Christmas themes. This special event runs until Jan. 1 and is open from 5:30-10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 5:30-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

There is no need to bundle up to enjoy the winter festivities at the Holiday Lights at the Beach. The entire tour of lights is meant to be enjoyed from your vehicle, allowing visitors to listen to their favorite Christmas tunes as they cruise the path once meant for Oceanfront foot traffic. The entrance, located on 2nd St., has signs posted that recommend vehicles tune in to a particular FM radio station to play their Christmas music.

Nightly admission for the Holiday Lights is $15 for cars, $25 for limousines and minibuses and $45 for motorhomes. Combo tickets are also available for $20, covering a visit to the Holiday Lights at the Beach as well

as admission for four people to Santa’s Seaside Village on 30th Street. A military discount is offered on Monday nights, offering admission rates of $7 for military families.

The Holiday Lights at the Beach are fun for friends and family of all ages, whether you are a visitor, new to the area or a long time local. Among this year’s spectators was Joshua Kramer, a Virginia Beach local.

“I’ve gone to the Holiday Lights every year for as long as I can remember.

Because of the theme, the best time to go see the lights is before Christmas but definitely after Thanksgiving,” Kramer said.

Kramer said that the lights display sometimes lasts a few years before the attraction is changed or added to. Though there are typically few alterations to the lights each year, there are some displays that have become personal favorites of spectators and keep them coming back each year.

“My favorite part is the Twelve Days of Christmas. I love that,” Kramer said.

Sydney Pendleton, 2-year resident of Virginia Beach, is a newcomer to the Holiday Lights at the Beach this

year. Driving through the tunnel of constantly changing lights arching over the runway is what she enjoyed most but some aspects of her experience at the Holiday Lights were dim in comparison to other displays she has visited.

“I’d suggest they show more authority for the people that go through to make sure there is a consistent flow of traffic and everyone turns their headlights off,” Pendleton said.

It is assumed that cars entering the strip of lights are expected to travel in a steady, single-file line with their headlights off from one end to the other, however, there is no one in place to enforce these expectations.

The single-file line of cars is frequently disturbed throughout the light show when hurried vehicles attempt to pass slow moving vehicles.

Aside from the signs at the entrance of the gate, there is no other instruction that reminds drivers to turn off their headlights while on the strip. Without reminders or enforcement, some vehicles unknowingly become a disruption to the experience for the cars ahead of them.

“They might also want to make

sure the radio station that they have sponsoring them works throughout the whole show,” Pendleton said.

The radio station that visitors are recommended to tune in to this year has plenty of Christmas music to enjoy during the cruise but there are certain spots along the strip that the station’s signals are disrupted. This causes a sudden burst of static sound that can last anywhere from a few seconds to a few minutes.

“I remember they used to give out CDs at the gate that you could just pop in,” Kramer said.

Despite these aspects of the Holiday Lights at the Beach, the attraction still draws in a large crowd every year. Not only is it convenient and close to home for Virginia Beach locals but its yearly presence has made it a tradition for many locals.

Pendleton said, “I would definitely recommend the lights to others but if they’re local to the area then they probably already know about it.”

‘STICKWORK’ CONCERT BRINGS EXHIBIT COMES HOLIDAY CHEER TO HERMITAGE Students showcase musical talent at annual “A Wesleyan Christmas” concert.

BY JUSTIN SMITH jrsmith2@vwc.edu

Rebecca Lazzeri | Marlin Chronicle

Patrick Dougherty’s “Stickwork” exhibit “Villa Tempesta” at Hermitage Museum and Gardens.

WHO WHAT

Patrick Dougherty is a internationally acclaimed artist.

“Stickwork” exhibit “Villa Tempesta” is made of local Sweetgum sapling branches.

The exhibit opened on Oct. 21 and will remain open until it deteriorates. The inside portion will be open until Jan. 15 2017.

WHEN WHERE The exhibit is located at Hermitage Museum & Gardens.

Virginia Wesleyan College took no time to get the campus into the holiday spirit after students returned from Thanksgiving break. The Edward D. Hofheimer Theater presented the annual “A Wesleyan Christmas” concert Dec. 1 through Dec. 3, showcasing the talented VWC students who are members of the choir group.

Performers of the concert included The Wesleyan Singers, The Wesleyan Chorale, The Wesleyan Jazz Ensemble, The Wesleyan Guitar Ensemble and the Tapestry Handbell Ensemble.

The night began with The Wesleyan Jazz Ensemble performing five traditional Christmas songs. Songs such as “Let it Snow!,” “Santa Baby” and “Jingle Bell Rock” opened up the show.

At the start of the main program, members of The Wesleyan Chorale, an elite group of singers, entered the theater singing “A’soalin.” The dim lit theater and the steady voices of the student singers created an ominous ambiance for the audience.

A sophomore in attendance, Ashley Fisher, said the opening song was her favorite.

“I liked the way they came out so calmly. It was eerie, yet beautiful,” Fisher said.

Junior and Wesleyan Singer Gwendolynn Malone said the meaning

behind the song is what made it her favorite.

“This is my favorite because it shows the two different sides of Christmas time. One side is happy and cheery while the other side involves people who are not well off and those who are struggling through the harsh winter,” Malone said.

Fisher was also a fan of the Tapestry Handbell Ensemble who performed several songs at the concert but noted that they seemed to have stolen the spotlight.

“The ladies with the bells were so good,” Fisher said. “They were so talented, but they did seem to overpower the actual singers. I wish the students sang more.”

The night went on with The Wesleyan Chorale and Wesleyan Singers singing songs including “Sing We Now of Christmas” and “Away in a Manger.” The performers introduced the final song by collectively whistling to emulate a blizzard before ending the show with “One Winter’s Night.”

Collectively, the concerts saw success, according to Malone.

“Thursday afternoon was a little bit smaller only because of the timing; however, both Friday and Saturday were sold out concerts,” Malone said.

THEWEEKENDER

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DECEMBER 8, 2016

N ORFOLK

BY MORGAN BOYD mnboyd@vwc.edu

BY BECCA LAZZERI ralazzeri@vwc.edu

GLOWS W I TH C H E E R The 32nd Grand Illumination Parade excites locals and ignites holiday cheer

The Annual Grand Illumination Parade occurred on Saturday, Nov. 19, marking Norfolk’s thirty-second year hosting the beloved tradition. The event begins with the illumination of Norfolk’ downtown skyline and a long line of parade participants marching through the city.

VWC sophomore Katie Staman attended the event with a group of friends.

“I love seeing the lights in the downtown being lit up,” Staman said.

The parade participants include organizations from all over the Norfolk and Portsmouth areas. People of all ages come to this event to share special moments with their families and loved ones and the atmosphere creates opportunities for new friendships as well.

The parade starts on Main Street of Downtown Norfolk and stretches all the way up and around Granby Street and down through Waterside Drive. Groups from all over the Hampton Roads area featured floats, marching bands, dance groups and even Santa Claus himself.

High schools and colleges including Woodrow Wilson High School, Norfolk Christian School and Old Dominion University participated alongside fire departments and local organizations.

VWC students Katie Staman, Kristina Scott, Hannah Weber and Rebecca Davis attended the parade together.

The students collectively remarked, “it got me into the the Christmas spirit” and “made me feel like Christmas season was finally here.”

The city welcomes new participants in the parade every year, whether it be walking with an organization,

as a vendor or as a volunteer. They offer training, free parking downtown the night of the event and a position on the official Holidays in the City commemorative team for those who choose to participate.

Junior Tabitha Lowell attended the parade with family and her boyfriend.

“My favorite part is when the marching band drumlines stop right in front of me,” Lowell said. Lowell and her family have attended the parade since she was a little girl.

“Since it is a long-time family tradition, it always makes me feel full of joy. It’s like I’m a little kid again,” Lowell said.

The Downtown area offered a variety of attractions for parade-goers. During the parade, there was a hot chocolate contest to promote groups in the area that make signature hot chocolate along with many other vendors offering hot drinks and food. There was also a Winter Carnival outside of the MacArthur Mall that included a ferris wheel and outdoor ice skating rink.

The Virginia Stage Company also offered a public show of A Christmas Carol.

Guests who were weary of big crowds flocked to the top of parking garages but visitors on the streets packed themselves tightly along the sidewalks to stay warm.

Waterside Dr Britani Alyse| Marlin Chronicle

‘ SELFIE’ IN THE GRILLE ESCAPE SHIP New faces grace the wall in the Grille

Norfolk’s resident battleship is the new location for scenario puzzle games

BY JUSTIN SMITH jrsmith2@vwc.edu

Are you willing to pay to be a prisoner? If so, Escape Ship: Captain’s Challenge is the place for you.

Escape Ship is an interactive attraction set on the Battleship Wisconsin at Nauticus in downtown Norfolk. This exhibit gives participants one hour to escape from the captain’s cabin. Using their clue deduction skills, participants solve riddles and decipher codes in order to escape and save the captain.

“This is one of the most interesting things to do in Norfolk. You are stepping on a history book,” Matthias Monschein said.

Upon coming aboard the Wisconsin, guests are greeted by a Navy Admiral who reads the instructions of the challenge and starts the clock. The challenge is set in 1945 and begins when

participants learn the captain has gone missing.

The Escape Ship experience costs $20 per person and is recommended for groups of eight. Nauticus hosts the event on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Reservations of time slots can be made on www.nauticus.org/escapeship/.

With currently 28 Escape Rooms in the state of Virginia, this attraction is truly different from any other venue.

Escape Ship is the first “escape room” challenge to ever be played on a battleship, according to the museum.

The Battleship Wisconsin is also home to multiple exhibits that tell its history and journey to the harbor it now resides in. Admission fees to Nauticus go toward upkeep costs of the Wisconsin.

Maria Garcia| Marlin Chronicle The USS Wisconsin is part of the Nauticus museum in Norfolk.

Anthony Dellamura| Marlin Chronicle The mural portrays world-renowned firgures.

BY CYNTHIA GRIFFIN clgriffin@vwc.edu

Bob Marley, Martin Luther King Jr., Gandhi, Frida Kahlo and Marilyn Monroe pose for a selfie in the Jane P. Batten Student Center.

Thanks to the creative design of Caitlyn Hogge and the teamwork of Josh Cherry, Catalina Jones, Mary McLaughlin, Matt Springer and Jen Taylor, VWC’s student center sports a new mural. As a requirement for the Advanced Drawing and Painting Lab class at Virginia Wesleyan College, the aforementioned students had to present an idea for a design that would go up on the wall in the Grille to a panel that consisted of President Miller, Jason Seward and some other faculty members.

Senior art major Caitlyn Hogge made the design that was chosen. She admits that presenting her idea was a little nerveracking.

“I was nervous to present in front of the faculty members but excited to have the opportunity to show them my idea for the mural,” Hogge says.

When her design was chosen, she became the project manager. Together, Hogge and her fellow classmates worked hard during the past couple of weeks to get the mural done.

The mural, which took a couple of weeks to paint, has given The Grille a

fresh look. The five people in the picture are some of the most well-known and influential public figures of our time. Each one is remembered for the impact they left on us before, and even after, they died. Bob Marley is known for his music, Gandhi for his gracious efforts to create peace in South Africa, Marilyn Monroe for her acting and signature style and Martin Luther King Jr. for all of the work he did fighting for African Americans during the civil rights movement.

While the first four people in the mural are mostly well-known, many people might not be familiar with Frida Kahlo.

Frida Kahlo, featured in the mural to the right of Martin Luther King Jr., was a Mexican self-portrait artist and is also remembered as a feminist icon for breaking stereotypes when it came to what women were supposed to wear and how they were supposed to dress. Kahlo was known to drink and smoke just like men did and dressed very masculine. She broke many stereotypes when it came to gender roles and expectations. She is not only remembered for her art but for the standards she raised for women.

The mural has gotten a lot of praise all across the campus, which is what Hogge was hoping for when she came up with the design.