Oral Roberts University · March 6, 2015 Tulsa, Oklahoma · Vol 49, No. 11 www.oruoracle.com @oruoracle @oruoraclesports
IMPACT OF PENDING ANTI-TEXTING LAW Photo illustration by Audrey Gray, Gerald Brown, Matthew Dean and Cassandra Van Dam
HPER Pilot Program FitBit may eliminate university’s field test. PAGE 5
TEXTING AND DRIVING BILL passes Oklahoma State House, readies for Senate. PAGE 3
Sutton Suspends Star Player Korey Billbury to miss remainder of season. PAGE 13
Alumna Kari Jobe Kari Jobe gets personal in exclusive interview. PAGE 7
SCENE
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“South Pacific” premiers this weekend, hits tough topics PAGE 7
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Staff picks “who wore it best” at the Golden Gala PAGE 12
News
Courtesy photos
Oklahoma State Representative Terry O’Donnell drafted the bill banning texting and driving. If the bill passes through the Senate, Oklahoma will join 44 other states with anti-texting and driving laws.
Texting while driving legislation passes House Dominique Johnson Staff Writer The Oklahoma House of Representatives approved a bill with bipartisan support banning texting while driving. Only two of the 96 representatives voted against the bill. Republican state Rep. Terry O’Donnell drafted the bill. The bill must pass through the State Senate and earn Gov. Mary Fallin’s signature to become a law. The proposed law classifies texting while driving as a secondary offense. This means a police officer couldn’t pull a motorist over for texting unless the infraction was paired with another offense like speeding, reckless driving or running a red light. “This is one of a handful of bills that will actually allow you to save lives and protect motorists and pedestrians in the state of Oklahoma,” O’Donnell said in an interview with NewsOK. He believes the new law would make it clear that texting while driving is illegal.
“We write bills for people to follow the law,” O’Donnell said. “The point of this law is to change behavior.” Critics of the bill say the legislation isn’t strict enough. O’Donnell believes the purpose of the bill is being met. “I’m going to vote for the measure, but if anyone thinks this is the best we can do, you have incredibly low expectations,” said Democratic State Rep. Cory Williams. According to Pew Research, 11 percent of all drivers younger than 20 involved in fatal crashes were reported to be distracted at the time of the crash. “According to the Tulsa Crime Commission, 21 percent of fatal car crashes for drivers between the ages of 16 and 19 are the result of cell phone usage,” O’Donnell said in a press release. “So that’s an age group we certainly need to help realize just how dangerous it is to text while driving.” Sophomore Ronald Parker experienced consequences of texting while driving during his senior year of high school in Delaware. Parker texted his sister, asking for directions. His
sister responded “Don’t text and drive.” When Parker read the message, he rear-ended a car in front of him. He then panicked and sped off. Parker saw the car was following him and decided to pull over. The two settled the matter without calling the police. If law enforcement got involved, Parker could have faced a citation and $75 fine. “I’m never going to text and drive again,” Parker said. “It’s dangerous and not worth it. Now, I’m really cautious.” House Bill 1956 makes a first offense punishable with a $250 fine and the second offense will increase the amount to $500. If the State Senate passes the bill, Oklahoma will join 44 other states with legislation against texting and driving. Currently, Oklahoma prohibits texting while driving for school bus drivers and novice drivers (carriers of a learner’s permit). The potential law will extend the ban to all motorists. The bill is named after two state troopers, Nicholas Dees and Keith Burch, who were killed by a motorist who was texting and driving.
“Forty percent of all American teens say they have been in a car when the driver used a cell phone in a way that put people in danger.” “Twenty-six percent of 16- and 17-year-olds admit to texting while behind the wheel.”
“Eleven percent of all drivers younger than 20 involved in fatal crashes were reported to be distracted at the time of the crash.” -Pew Research THE ORACLE • Friday, March 6, 2015 • 3
OK Capitol deals in more than hot-button issues JJ Johnson News Editor
Oklahoma lawmakers proposed 3,063 bills for consideration in the 2015 legislative session. A handful of these caught the national spotlight in recent weeks. Bills defunding the AP U.S. History program, eliminating marriage licenses and bolstering “gay conversion therapy” programs stirred debate in headlines and Youtube comments across the country. Hundreds of other bills, however, are going past public servants’ desks unnoticed by major news outlets. “The vast majority of bills that come through really are not anything that cause a great amount of controversy,” said Malia Bennett, Oklahoma Senate director of communications. Take for example House Bill 1104. The proposal found its way to the number two spot on LegiScan’s “Most Watched” list for the 2015 session. The act modifies an existing law, regulating the transportation and hunting of wild hogs in the state of Oklahoma. The bill specifically encourages the killing of wild hogs, an invasive species in the state, by licensed hunters. Oklahoma is home to 244,000 hunters and hunting-related spending exceeded $355 million in 2011, according to Census data. Another proposal, Senate Bill 17, addresses water rights’ issues. The bill states that any natural spring that originates on a property owner’s land is the property of that owner. There are 167,600 miles of rivers and streams in the state of Oklahoma, according to the Oklahoma Water Resource Board. Each mile brings with it questions of ownership and use. This bill aims to answer some. Other proposals involve safety. HB 1761 would require “bicyclists to wear at least one item of reflective outerwear apparel” when riding on highways, while SB 304 would outlaw texting and driving. Criminal activity is another issue tackled in proposals. SB 637 amends the definition of rape to add protections for foster children, while HB 1350 refines punishments for stalking. Still others are appropriations bills authorizing the spending of money within various departments of the government. “The media has an agenda. They are obviously going to be more interested in the things that are within their ideology than in the things that are mundane and routine,” said Dr. Winston Frost, ORU assistant professor of government. This is not to say these bills do not drum up
controversy. Facebook comments from citizens on LegiScan criticize the wild hog bill as “unneeded” and “absurd.” The bill passed committee but with two representatives opposing. This conflict is part of the day-to-day of Oklahoma politics. “The legislature works very well together. The Democrats and Republicans work very well together,” said Representative Chuck Strohm of District 69, which encompasses ORU. “In the Oklahoma legislature, its not necessarily democrats and republicans. More of than not, it’s urban rural. That’s huge. So we deal with water issues, education issues.” Data from the 2014 session shows that the Oklahoma legislature looked at 2,399 proposals and passed 401 into law. This amounts to an average of 30 bills processed per day. “Government doesn’t really need controversy. In fact, if there is controversy, it’s very uncomfortable for the politicians. So, for the most part, if they can be noncontroversial and bland, they’ll get more done,” Frost said. Summary data for the 2015 session will not be available until after the legislature adjourns in May. You can follow the progress of individual bills at legiscan.com/OK/bill.
“The vast majority of bills that come through really are not anything that cause a great amount of controversy.”
4 • THE ORACLE • Friday, March 6, 2015
Lightning rods Marriage Licenses
-HB 1125 -Rep. Todd Russ -Would eliminate marriage licenses in Okla- homa, replacing them with marriage certificates and encouraging common-law marriages.
Gay Rights
-HB 1597 -Rep. Sally Kern -“No business entity shall be required to provide any services, accommodations, advantages, facilities, goods or privileges related to any lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender person, group or association.” -Withdrawn from consideration
AP U.S. History
-HB 1380 -Rep. Dan Fisher -Bill would defund the AP U.S. History Program in schools across Oklahoma. -Withdrawn and being rewritten
Oklahoma Legistlature began its 2015 session on Feb. 2
Courtesy of Adam McCreary
Huber: Field tests could end with Fitbit, Vivofit Brooke Thomas Feature Editor
HPER plans to implement fitness tracking systems in an attempt to strengthen the aerobics points system and eliminate the inflated weight the field test holds in HPE classes. Fitbit and Vivofit technologies will be on the wrists of ORU students this fall. After months of research and preparation, Chair of the HPER Department Fritz Huber is excited about the opportunities Fitbit bands offer. “We are hoping that we can get better information that shows what [students] are doing without them having to say they are doing it, we can just see it, which is great,” said Huber. “With this way though, there is not going to be a lot of room for people to cheat; [however,] if people are doing what they say they are doing and are showing it, we will be able to make aerobics points worth more and then take points away from the field test so the field test doesn’t cost as much.” Fitbit bands will be required for all students in Health Fitness I and will likely be purchased through
lab fees. Next fall, incoming freshmen and transfer students will be the first class to test out the fitnesstracking devices that will record calorie intake and expenditure, sleep patterns and more. The HPE staff will only track two items: heart rate training zone and the steps taken in a day. “It will be a combination of those instead of aerobics points,” Huber said. While logging aerobics points in the traditional sense will largely dissipate, there will still be a standard bar set for students in order to receive grades. The long-term effects could provide major improvements for both staff and students despite the “big brother” concerns some students have expressed with the implementation of the new technology, Huber said. “Rather than everything being in theory, now we will have a way to quantify it, to see if certain things done by a student can affect their field test,” said Huber. “There might be a point in time where the field test could even be eliminated because it is not needed if we are getting valuable information through heart
rate and through steps.” ORU online has assimilated a similar, yet unrelated program into the curriculum. The Vivofit, sponsored by Garmin, was employed a few months ago, and requires all online students to track their physical activities through the Vivofit activity tracker. The Vivofit syncs with the ORU online system and provides students with the ability to plan, share and save their progress in a personal account including goal setting functions through baseline fitness and activity level, sleep tracking, inactivity alerts, calorie logging and step and distance tracking. Although the programs were developed through different technology, the purpose remains the same. “The main goal is to help the student see how physically active they are. I think a lot of students will be surprised that they think they are very physically active. This will show them whether they are or not,” said Huber. “If they want to make changes, then it is easy enough for them to make changes and see if it is working or not.”
Israel Alliance attends AIPAC meeting in D.C. Morgan Redding Staff Writer Twelve students attended the American Israel Public Affairs Committee’s 2015 Policy Conference earlier this week in Washington, D.C. AIPAC’s mission is to strengthen, protect and promote the relationship between the U.S. and Israel in hopes to enhance the security of Israel. The ORU students are members of the Campus Israel Alliance. The policy meeting comes at a time when tensions have risen between the U.S. and Israel as a nuclear deal with Iran is in the balance. “This is the first time ORU has been to AIPAC as a group,” said Campus Israel Alliance President Tiana Woods. Woods spoke on two panels discussing the strategic alliance between the U.S. and Israel. Over 16,000 people attended the AIPAC 2015 Policy Conference. 3,000 were college students from across the country. “We are looking forward to the experience of meeting so many other campus activists, and hearing the Prime Minister of Israel and top congressional figures speak,” said Woods. The students trip was fully funded by AIPAC, something senior Alex Cevallos was grateful for. “It is truly a blessing to be able to say that before I
graduate I get to partake in an event that is fully paid for, and treats you like you are valued and important,” said Cevallos. “And also wants to hear your opinion on issues pertaining to the well-being of other cultures.” Cevallos plans to pursue a career in politics. He feels his attendance at AIPAC’s 2015 Policy Conference will help him in the future. “My desire is to run for a political position one day, and I think that this conference will enhance my networking,” Cevallos said. “It will also teach me how to speak and present myself in a governmental environment.” Students attended several breakout sessions during the conference and heard Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speak. Session topics varied from national security to African-Israeli relationships. “The point of the breakout sessions are so that we get to learn very important ways to approach the security of Israel, also any issues between Israel and their enemies,” said Cevallos. Next year, ORU’s Campus Israel Alliance organization hopes to attend the event again. “We hope that students that go to the policy conference will come back with a passion to pursue local pro-Israel activism,” said Woods.
Courtesy Photo
Campus Israel Alliance members Lee A. Scott II, Alejandro Cevallos and Amanda Purtell stand in front of the White House during AIPAC. THE ORACLE • Friday, March 6, 2015 • 5
Tulsa’s Brookside business district trading up Sydney Ilg Staff Writer
Thursday announced a new grocery store’s entrance to Tulsa: speciality foods store Trader Joe’s will be opening a store on Brookside in late 2015. The recent opening of Urban Outfitters on Brookside brought a smile to Tulsa millennials. The opening of Urban Outfitters is only the first step to midtown’s facelift. “Brookside is old, and right now, old is good,” City Planner Martha Schultz said. “The footprint is small. You don’t need a car to get around, and people want to keep it that way. Brookside is part of a neighborhood plan that is setting the table for private investment.” Already the plan has brought in the wildly popular store Urban Outfitters. Now that plan is leading to bulldozing all buildings between E. 37th St. and E. 37th Pl. on Peoria Avenue to make way for Trader Joe’s. This includes a jewelry store, beauty salon and hipsterclothing store The Stash.
The California-based foods store values great food at great prices, a trait Tulsa’s citizens flock to. “Bulldozers are expected on the site within the next week,” said ORU 2010 alumna and CB Richard Ellis Associate Caitlin Boewe, whose company manages the property. Boewe noted Tahlequah-based Reasor’s Inc. will open in the 41st and Peoria anchor store which originally housed a Food Pyramid. “There’s a lot happening in the Brookside area and across Tulsa,” Boewe said. “Tulsa is a unique city,” said Crystal Keller, Tulsa construction and retail development manager. “It’s central to the U.S., and we want to encourage unique business that will improve the quality of life.” Young people ages 15 to 34 comprise nearly 30 percent of Tulsa’s population, and the average household income is around $62,660, roughly 0.8 percent higher than the national average.
Internet Photo
Trader Joe’s announced Thursday plans to open its first store in Tulsa. This young demographic and higher income bracket is attractive for “hip” stores like Urban Outfitters and Trader Joe’s, who cater to the bohemian, freespirited crowd.
“Tulsa is different than any other place, and businesses want to come here,” Keller said.
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CAREER FAIR TIPS 1. Bring several copies of your resume & networking cards. 2. Dress professionally to impress. 3. Research employers attending the CAREER FAIR at www.orugoldenhire.com. Just off the Creek Turnpike between Aspen and Elm in Broken Arrow WarrenTheatres.com • Movie Line (918) 893-9798
6 • THE ORACLE • Friday, March 6, 2015
A COURTESY REMINDER FROM ORU STUDENT MEDIA
FEATURES
Q&A: Kari Jobe returns to ORU Peyton Luke
Contributing Writer
Kari Jobe performed last night in the Mabee Center to a crowd of students and college weekenders. If you didn’t get enough of the two-time Dove Award-winning singer-songwriter, here’s a Q&A with contributing writer and KORU Station Manager Peyton Luke. Peyton Luke: How did you become interested and get started in music? Kari Jobe: “I have been doing music my whole life. My parents had been in ministry since I was a little girl, and I started singing with them when I was about three. When I was between 10 and 13, I realized I wanted to do music for a career. I took lessons a lot, but we were in a church that was very charismatic and nondenominational, so worship was very important. We would have nights of worship which would last for hours—and I just loved it. I learned to wait on the presence of God, and that when we sing, it’s not just singing songs before a preacher gets up, but that it’s an exchange of faith. It’s singing prayers and something shifts in the atmosphere. It’s about having the presence of God welcomed there. So, I just knew that’s what I wanted to do that for the rest of my life. When I went off to college at Oral Roberts, I began singing and traveling with one of the worship teams there. I just kept at it.” PL: When was your break-through moment in the music industry? KJ: “I recorded Revelation Song with Christ for the Nations in 2004 and from there started getting requests to sign on different labels around 2006, but I didn’t actually sign until 2009. I just kept serving at my church [Gateway Church]. I was on staff as a worship pastor, just enjoying that. I didn’t feel like I wanted to do my own CD quite yet, but I did the Christ for the Nations CD, ORU CD and Gateway CD. So, I served a lot on other people’s projects.” PL: KORU also has a Spanish station, so I have to ask. Out of your eight albums, two of them are Spanish. What was the inspiration behind writing songs in another language, and why Spanish in particular? KJ: “I went on a mission trip with a team at Christ for the Nations, and I memorized a bunch of Hillsongs worship songs in Spanish. (This was in about 2010). When I would finish singing, the people would come up and start speaking to me in Spanish and I
Courtesy Photo
ORU alumna Kari Jobe returned to Tulsa last night to perform at the Mabee Center. To listen to this week’s interview with Jobe, check out oruoracle.com. was like, ‘No, wait, wait, wait! I just memorized those songs!’ Then they started telling me how authentic I sound and that they couldn’t even tell I had an accent when I sang. So, I thought, ‘Wow, that’s amazing! The Lord must have an anointing on me to do this.’ So, we did those [Spanish] projects and albums, then went back to South America and would do the whole night in Spanish. It’s just one of those baffling things, because I don’t speak the language quite yet, but I am learning. I just love it. I love that culture. When I was at Oral Roberts, I took Spanish and for extra credit you could go to a Spanish church. I went there a lot, but it was because I really just fell in love with the presence of God that was there. It was kind of hard to understand even the translator. So, sometimes I would take my headphones out and just sit in the presence of God. I didn’t know what they were saying or anything, but at one point all the people started going down to the altar just weeping and putting their hands up in the air and I thought, ‘Well, I guess we’re going to the front.’ So, I got up and went down to the altar and I was so overwhelmed with the presence of God. Then this lady came down and started praying for me, but I didn’t know what she was saying. I was just like, ‘Yes, Lord. If this is you, then I receive it.’ Then after that I had such a love for the Latin culture. I think I received a gift to love those people that day. I didn’t know what the lady prayed, but I’m seeing the fruit of it now.”
PL: What is something you learned during your time in school? KJ: “I really look back and realize it wasn’t about me learning more math, science or even my major, which ended up being psychology and pastoral ministry. God was teaching me to have a relationship with Him for myself, not just because my family taught me to love the Lord. And I will say college was one of the hardest seasons of my life, in having to learn to love the Lord by myself, find a church, know what I believed, why I believed it, and why I believed the Holy Spirit was real. God became more real to me while I was in college. So, I just look back and think how thankful I am to have been pushed into that uncomfortable place and that I ran to the Lord instead of away from the Lord. I think some people get jaded in college years and turn to other things. Thankfully, I knew enough about the presence of God to know I needed to understand the Lord in a deeper way, or life might eat me up through the struggles.” Kari Jobe’s professional career began by recording projects with ORU, Hillsong and Christ for the Nations. She often travels with headlining tours and makes guest appearances with Chris Tomlin, the Passion Conference and Hillsong Conferences in Sydney and London. Jobe remains an associate worship pastor at Gateway Church in Southlake, Texas. THE ORACLE • Friday, March 6, 2015 • 7
Balancing act: Barrantes focuses talent on people Alyssa LaCourse Staff Writer
Photo by Reagan Tifft
Billy Barrantes balances a sculpture on his chin. Barrantes placed second place in “ORU’s Got Talent” for balancing a ladder on his face.
Billy Barrantes never takes his eyes off God or the ladder he balances on his face. He focuses on the goal. “When I am balancing things, I am always looking up. If I lose focus of the object I am balancing, it will fall,” said Barrantes. “God is always reminding me that if I want to stand and not fall, I have to keep my eyes on Him.” Barrantes came in second place in “ORU’s Got Talent,” showcasing his balancing skills. Growing up, Barrantes was intrigued when he saw someone on television balance a broomstick. He decided to imitate by balancing smaller objects on his hands, feet and face. He discovered he had a unique talent and began exploring how far he could take it. “I started doing a broomstick, and I balanced it in my hand, and eventually I put it on my chin,” said Barrantes. “I don’t know why, I guess it just fit, and it was good because I could always keep my eyes on the object.” Barrantes finds it easy to balance objects on his chin because he can use his whole body to balance the object, rather than just the strength of his arm or leg. “I never thought a lot about it, and eventually people started asking me ‘Hey can you do something else?’ and I started doing chairs,” Barrantes said. “I never went bigger than that before the talent show.” To prepare for the show he watched videos of people balancing larger objects and felt confident he could try. After a suggestion from a friend, he began
to practice balancing a ladder on his chin. “People don’t realize that it is not that dangerous and not that hard. The bigger the object, the easier it is to balance,” he said. “Now when you think about weight it’s harder, but if it’s big and light, it’s better if it’s bigger.” Barrantes premiered his ladder-balancing act at “ORU’s Got Talent,” and the students accounted for the largest audience to ever view his performance. He said the crowds made his act a bit more difficult. “I had to make sure I was focused on the ladder and not on the people around me,” Barrantes said. Barrantes can also juggle, walk on his hands, unicycle and do backflips. “I like to experience different things,” said Barrantes. “I think you can learn something from everything you do, and nothing is impossible to learn.” Outside of talent shows, Barrantes uses his talents to communicate with others and share the gospel. He entertained people during his mission trip to Uganda last summer by balancing, juggling, standing on his hands and doing flips. “Kids always love it. They love seeing me balance things,” said Barrantes. “And from there you can always bring it back to the gospel or the fact that God has gifted you with things.” Barrantes is going on a mission trip to India this summer and will be doing children’s ministry. “I will be using my talent a lot everywhere we go. Trying to entertain the kids, bring a message and tell them about Christ,” he said.
FishGang makes their last splash Victoria Atterberry Scene Editor
May gradution exercises will mark the official breakup of the popular student band FishGang. The band first debuted at the 2014 Battle of the Bands. FishGang gained popularity on campus after appearances in chapel and they recently took second place in the 2015 Battle of the Bands. “It’s not like we wanted it to happen. We’re always going to be together even if we’re in different states,” said lead singer and pianist B.J. Fisher. The close-knit band doesn’t necessarily see this as the end, but rather a time to focus on
individual goals to later create music together in the future. “We’ll always be doing music together, but we won’t always be a band,” said pianist Dein-rene’ Amazan. “We believe in each other’s individual drives and vision for themselves. No matter what direction we want to go we still are together. Fish Gang is not the end role.” FishGang started a few years ago after meeting each other through mutual friendships. Amazan created the band name. “I was back in Cali walking to my bathroom, and I was like FishGang. That would be so tight,” he said.
8 • THE ORACLE • Friday, March 6, 2015
“It’s a cheesy name but it’s cool.” Amazan said FishGang represents the Jesus fish. The band’s logo also serves as a special representation. Each letter in the logo stands for God the Father, God the Holy Spirit and God the Holy Ghost. FishGang’s desire is to perform from the heart, even if their music doesn’t appeal to ORU culture. “You don’t have to be about the gospel all the time to still have God’s spirit with you. Our music may not be gospel-centered, but we all have hearts after God,” said pianist Amazan. “We try to
Photo by Cassandra VanDam
FishGang from: David Collins, Johnluke Lewis, Dein-Rene Amazan, Sheldon Young, B.J. Fisher and Josh Nanna. let God’s glory be shown in the earth in an unbiased, uncultural way.” FishGang landed a spot at ORU alumnus Brian Nhira’s
album release party. Opportunities to perform in the Battle of the Bands and begin working on an album in the future are possible, but uncertain.
THE ORACLE • Friday, March 6, 2015 • 9
Golden Gala 2015: A red carpet evening Rachel Anderson Managing Editor Francesca Vazquez Staff Writer
Students walked the red carpet in full Hollywood style at the 2015 Golden Gala Homecoming event. Women wore dazzling floor-length gowns and
the men showed off their classy sides with tuxes and bow ties. Students were treated like celebrities, interviewed on the red carpet and guided through the
paparazzi. Festivities included savory finger foods while caricature artists and a DJ mixed the night away with popular tunes--an evening to remember.
Emily Branz dazzled the crowd in a blue, chevron sequined gown. The sash in the middle only added to this exciting look and her updo brought class the look. Date: Jonathan Snow
Johanna DeBiaso looked stunning in this royal blue A-line gown. This lovely hue was popular among the ladies but DeBiaso’s nude clutch and voluminous curls set her apart at the Gala. Date: David DeBiaso.
Best Dressed
Hayley Young brought romance to the evening in this whimsical peach colored gown. The trail grazing the floor and her hair swept up in a low bun only added to this romantic look. Date: Adam Zsolnai.
Valeria Hernandez looked spicy in this bright red, strapless gown. Hernandez set herself apart form the other red gowns by adding a gold statement necklace and romantic curls. Date: Joel Moisa
Right: Students enjoyed hors d’oeuvres provided by the Mayo Hotel. Pictured is Elijah Grabovenko and Shakir Yerkeyev.
Four caricature artists sketched student portraits. Pictured is Christine Howrey and Gabe Wilson. 10 • THE ORACLE • Friday, March 6, 2015
Left: Ben Marsh dips date Cora Skjaerlund to music provided by Chris Rodriquez.
Who wore it better? The One Shoulder Mermaid
Bowties
He did!
She did! Kylie Johnson looked gorgeous in her black and white patterned gown. She pulled her hair into a pretty up-do but chose not to accessorize. If she had worn a necklace the look would have been more complete. Date: Reagan Tifft
Aubrey Walling styled her hair and makeup in a neat vintage do, pulled to one side revealing small black earrings. Walling showcased her mermaid gown with a classic vintage spin. Date: Garrek Reed
The white, grey and black color combination proved to be a success on Xavior Dominique. The large, white bow tie added an extra touch of flare to this look. Date: Tiffany Joelle
Student Association President Zay Williams sported a bright yellow bow tie and black suit combination. Although he looked great, adding a yellow pocket square would have completed the look.
Will and Jada
Picture Perfect
Casino Royale
Monroe Cunningham and Alyssa Ressel looked like well-known celebrity couple Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith. Ressel owned the red carpet in a black, beaded gown and Monroe looked dashing in his tux and bow tie.
Newlyweds Gavin and Haley Fouts, looked picture perfect on the red carpet. Haley Fouts’ blush gown and loose curls complemented Gavin Fouts’ grey suit and matching tie. This couple put the perfect in the pictures.
Mr. ORU, Nathan Roberts and Raquel Fletcher wowed the crowd with their classic red and black color scheme. Fletcher’s red-lace gown and Robert’s sleek black tux remind us of the suave James Bond and his leading lady. THE ORACLE • Friday, March 6, 2015 • 11
12 • THE ORACLE • Friday, March 6, 2015
SPORTS
@oruoraclesports
Sutton suspends Billbury indefinitely Parrish Purnell Jr. Sports Writer ORU guard Korey Billbury was suspended indefinitely by Head Coach Scott Sutton this past week for a violation of team rules. The nature of the indiscretion remains unclear, but the punishment is certain. “Korey is suspended indefinitely,” said Sutton. “It’s something we’ll reevaluate this spring, and we’ll go from there, but he will not play again this season.” Billbury is the second-leading scorer [14.4 ppg], leading rebounder [7.4 rpg] and leading assist man [2.9 apg] for the Golden Eagles this season. The Golden Eagles posted a 15-13 overall record during the regular season with Billbury on the floor. He emerged as a frontrunner last season, leading the team in rebounds and second in scoring behind senior forward Shawn Glover. “He’s [Billbury] a great player, but Bobby [Word] is going to have to come in and fill the void,” said guard Obi Emegano. “I think we’re really just focused on playing as a team.” Billbury’s suspension came prior to the last two games of the regular season against North Dakota State and Denver. ORU dominated in both contests despite not having its vocal leader. Emegano stepped up to the challenge with an emotionally charged,
career-high 34 points, and Word filled Billbury’s position in the lineup also scoring a career-high 20 points against NDSU. “I just played my game,” said Word. With Billbury sidelined, ORU has looked to its point guard for more vocal leadership. Aaron Young has quietly led the team this season through his play on the court. Now Sutton looks to hear his voice more. “You want your point guard to be the vocal leader,” said Sutton. “A.Y. is a very intelligent player. He takes care of his business on and off the court. As the point guard, he’s the extension of the coaching staff on the court.” The Golden Eagles are ready for the Summit League Conference Tournament next week. It remains to be seen if Billbury’s absence will cost the team in a more physical style of tournament play this weekend. Losing Billbury doesn’t just eliminate a valiant scoring threat; it also takes away the strongest rebounding and defensive presence on the roster.
Photo by Austin St. John
Guard Korey Billbury will not return this season after violating team rules. Billbury led the team in rebounds, assists and was second in scoring.
MLB: Changing rules without changing the game Russell Dorsey Sports Writer The sound of Velcro tearing apart over and over and over again begins the process as Nomar Garciaparra straps and unstraps each batting glove three times. Now, pushes dirt from one side of the batter’s box only to put it back with the opposite foot. He touches the shoulder then elbow then back for a second round before touching the bat head. The culmination of the tedious, if not obsessive compulsive, routine is waving the bat in a circular motion five or six times. Now, he’s ready for the first pitch. Garciaparra’s at-bats go on forever, as he repeats the process after each and every pitch. Garciaparra was a great hitter for the Boston Red Sox, but he is exactly what Major League Baseball is trying to avoid this season. According to Baseball Prospectus, the average game in 2014 lasted three hours and eight minutes, the longest yearly average in the history of baseball. This leaves baseball fans asking themselves one question. Can you speed up baseball games? The Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association are answering yes.
Opening day is less than one month away, and the league has taken steps to speed up the pace of play. MLB and the MLBPA have agreed to a “pace of the game” program that will attempt to speed up baseball games this season. The following changes were put in place by MLB and take effect when the 2015 regular season begins on April 3: -The batter’s box rule: All batters must keep at least one foot in the batter’s box unless one of a group of exceptions occurs. Minor League Baseball started using this rule last season. Exceptions to the batter’s box rule are a foul ball or foul tip; if a pitch forces a batter out of the batter’s box; “time” is called and granted; wild pitches and passed balls. - The timer: Timers will be placed in every ballpark, one in the outfield and a smaller one behind home plate. The timers will be set for two minutes and 25 seconds and start running as soon as the third out of the inning is made. The clocks are to hold TV networks accountable for holding up play by showing too many commercials during inning breaks. - Replay challenges: Managers will now request replays from the dugout.
Critics are in agreement that baseball should pick up the pace, but figuring out how to speed up the game while making sure all of the different nuances of baseball stay in the game will be a challenge. Teams want their hitters to see a lot of pitches in an at-bat. Seeing more pitches means longer at-bats, longer at-bats mean longer innings and longer innings mean longer games. But teams can’t be at fault for using good hitting philosophy that just so happens to make the game longer. Holding TV networks to a strict clock will help the most. Networks will still be able to show commercials, but will also have to be mindful to get viewers back to game action because of the clock. Baseball is longer than most sports because it’s different from other sports. Baseball will always be a tedious sport, because of the intricacies like holding runners with pick-offs, pitching changes, double switches and the other characteristics that make the game so special. Baseball isn’t changing entirely. The game baseball fans know and love will remain intact, but a few rules changes will make it better. THE ORACLE • Friday, March 6, 2015 • 13
Defense takes center stage in Summit tourney David Sauer Sports Editor
The Summit League Tournament begins Saturday, and the men and women’s teams will represent ORU as the No. 3 seed in the brackets. Each team is focused on defense going into the upcoming games, which could put them in the NCAA Tournament. Both teams have showed renewed passion on the defensive end of the floor over the weeks leading up to the tournament. The men held North Dakota State and Denver below 58 points last week. Head Coach Scott Sutton plans on using the recent tenacity as a foundation to build upon for a successful run into postseason. “I think guys are finally buying in that this is how we have to play,” Sutton said. “If we’re going to have success, we have to defend, and we have to defend as a group. We can’t rely on one or two guys to play defense and three guys not.” The weight on individuals to fill the void of an absent Korey Billbury has led to a renewed sense of collective determination. “I think we faced some adversity and through that we’ve come together as a team,” guard Darian Harris said. “We’ve played really well together defensively and through that we’ve tried to make it one unit rather than five individuals.” Defense has been the calling card of the women’s team since midway through the conference season. The ladies have given up a miniscule average of 58 points in the last seven games. “Defense wins championships. We may or may not shoot the ball well,” Head Coach Misti Cussen said. “Everybody may not shoot the ball well at the new facility up there in Sioux Falls. Your defense can travel with you wherever you go.” The men’s team begins their bid for a title on Sunday at 8:30 p.m. against IUPUI. The team is carrying the momentum of two straight home wins in the past week.
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“IUPUI is going to be a difficult game,” Sutton said. “They had a chance to beat us here [at home]. We played really well at their place and beat them. This is a team that will defend you. They’re very, very deep.” ORU swept IUPUI during the season. The men won on the road in overtime on Jan. 7, then at home in a 10-point victory on Feb. 5, but the team isn’t looking past IUPUI despite the success. “Every game is your last game,” Harris said. “You can’t treat it like you have to rest for a game or save energy. Every game is potentially your last game so you have to bring it every practice and every minute of the game.” A win puts ORU against either No. 2 seed South Dakota State or No. 7 seed Denver depending on the outcome of the other game. The women will begin the tournament on Sunday at 2:30 p.m. against North Dakota State. They are riding momentum of their own with victories in five of the last seven games. “One of my favorite things about our team right now is that we know who we are,” Cussen said. “I don’t think that last season we every enjoyed that identity moment. This team really knows who they are, and they know their roles.” The women’s team would similarly play either South Dakota State or Denver in round two Monday. “Season one ended back in December when nonconference play stopped. Season two is now completely over; there’s no more regular season games. Everybody is 0-0 again. It’s time to start season three,” said Cussen. “It’s a fresh start for everyone. Everybody will be focused on Saturday and Sunday and we’ll be right there with them.” Three wins by either team gives ORU a Summit League Championship title and a spot in the NCAA Tournament. “It’s such a special occasion whenever you’re able to win a conference tournament and go to the NCAA Tournament,” Sutton said.
“There’s nothing like it. There really isn’t. I really hope this group gets a chance to experience that,” he said. Top right: Bobby Word has moved into the starting lineup in the absence of Korey Billbury. Bottom right: Dorrotya Balla moves to the basket against North Dakota State on Feb. 11. Left: Misti Cussen coaches Bernadett Balla during the game against NDSU. Photos by Austin St. John and Abri Summerer
SCENE Kaylin Thompson Staff Writer
“South Pacific” premiered yesterday and will continue through the weekend. More than 60 ORU students are involved in the setting, lights, costume design and acting. Director Laura Holland, chair of the Communications, Arts and Media Department chose musical “South Pacific” as the spring opener with a purpose. “The play has a wonderful message,” Holland said. “It also won a Pulitzer Prize for drama during its time on Broadway. During the ‘50s and ‘60s, racism continued to be a very strong belief in this country. The play has a very progressive anti-racism message, and a distinct international-feel. It is a Rogers and Hammerstein collaboration, and the music in the play is beautiful. I think that it’s a wonderful tribute to that generation.” The musical is based on the novel by James Michener titled, “Tales of the South Pacific.” The setting of the play takes place on an island in the South Pacific during World War II before the allies began to win. There are three storylines followed throughout the play. The first focuses on the relationship between
Nellie, a U.S. Navy nurse and Emile, a French planter. The second involves U.S. Marine Lt. Cable and a Polynesian girl named Liat. The third storyline follows a group of sailors known as “Seabees” and their particular antics. Dublin-born sophomore Danny Thomas stars as the Frenchman. This will be Thomas’s first musical. His passion for acting compelled him to audition. “I got involved in the play because I wanted to push myself. Having never performed in a musical before, I saw it as the perfect opportunity grow and as the best way to step out of my comfort zone,” Thomas said. “The audition process was slightly tough. Laura Holland and Richard Sutliff, professor of music, helped me with the singing process and getting everything together on stage. I enjoy all of the time, effort and energy that goes into the production, so I think it’s well worth it.” Other cast members include Patty Whitlock as Nellie, Nick Conroy as Lieutenant Cable and Jasmine Brown as Liat. “My cast is very diverse and enthusiastic about telling the story,” said Holland. “That’s what we are: glorified storytellers. This is a joint effort between the communications and music departments. Richard
Sutliff is the musical director of the play. The choreographer is Leslie Jennings, who was on Broadway for 10 years. She is back in Tulsa and this is the third show she has choreographed for me. I love working with her.” As director, Holland has her own vision for the play and understands that there are different ways one can interpret the characters. Holland would like audiences to take away several aspects from the play. “I want the audience to get the message of prejudice in the play,” Holland said. “There is a song in the show that really sums up the theme, which is ‘You Have to Be Taught.’ The lyrics describe how prejudice is taught, and that one is not born with prejudice. I hope the audience takes away an appreciation for the men and women that fought in that war, so that we can have the freedoms that we enjoy today.” “South Pacific” runs March 5-7 in Howard Auditorium. Performances begin at 7:30 p.m.
For more on upcoming theatre and arts events happening on campus and around Tulsa, check out the Scene page at oruoracle.com
Photos by Quentin Harrup
Above: Danny Thomas plays Emile, lead role in “South Pacific.” Garrek Reed plays Captain Brackett. Right: Thomas shares a scene with Patty Whitlock who plays Nellie. THE ORACLE • Friday, March 6, 2015 • 15
DTF major uses fashion to fill social voids Rachel Anderson Managing Editor
Before Aubrey Walling came to ORU, she worked with the homeless through the Los Angeles Dream Center as a site leader for children in the housing projects. They called her “low-key dope.” Walling said it’s easy to relate through fashion because it’s one thing everyone has. “People are always looking for ways to relate to other people. I feel that clothing is a gateway to the human race,” said Walling. Fashion is a medium that reflects a person’s inner self. Walling, a drama, television and film major, said every day is a fashion encounter. Fashion helped Walling through the hard times in her life. In middle school, her parents pulled her out of school for a year and a half due to a particular trying time. Walling coped with her emotions by escaping to her room and putting outfits together. She confessed that the easiest way to express herself is through her clothes. Even as a child, Walling understood the power of fashion; her identity was found through her clothing. Walling believes that people shouldn’t be scared to wear what they want. Fashion is the easiest form of expression. Fashion is an outward expression of an inward reality, and the best way to showcase who one is on the inside is through their style, she said. Born in Georgetown, Texas, this southern bell has a sense of style that focuses on ingenuity. Unfortunately, she couldn’t fully wield her fashionista skills until she reached her college years. Her mother wasn’t a fan of shopping; therefore, Walling was the regular recipient of hand-me-downs that were less than fashionable. She worked with what she had and created interesting pieces until she could afford to shop for herself. “I guess my limitations caused me to be creative,” said Walling. Her humble beginnings greatly impacted her style. Walling is an avid supporter of thrifting. Her favorite stores are popular thrift shops in Tulsa like Daisy Exchange and Plato’s Closet. Walling likes to mix it up and shop all around. She doesn’t limit herself to just one designer. When buying clothes, Walling looks for two things: quality and appeal. Walling would rather buy something timeless than something that will only last a week. Her advice: “If you buy it at a thrift shop, you can pull it off at any time.” Walling can be seen walking campus in multiple styles, because her eclectic taste in clothes. “One day I can dress like a housewife from the ‘50s, the next I look like a news anchor from the ‘80s and then a couple days later, a pop star from the 16 • THE ORACLE • Friday, March 6, 2015
Aubrey Walling shows off her unique style with a patterned Jean Paul blouse paired with a teal pencil skirt and a floppy sun hat. Walling, a junior drama, television and film major at ORU, said every day is a fashion encounter.
‘90s,” said Walling. “I find freedom in the expression of fashion because the sky is the limit and to me, it’s the easiest art form.” Walling describes her style as “Nancy Sinatra Gangster.” She likes to wear collared blouses and pencil skirts, but knows it’s not complete without a beanie and big silver hoops. Walling claims to have vintage, eclectic and hipster looks all at the same time. As a way to challenge herself, she intentionally chooses over-the-top outfits. “Half of pulling off an outfit is believing you have the confidence to do so,” said Walling. Walling’s current fashion inspiration is comfort. Being a college student has affected the way she presents herself. She favors loose-fitting clothes that are easy to slip on. The challenge is to feel comfortable and still look nice. A staple in her closet and favorite piece of clothing are her black harem pants. She found these pants at a thrift store in Tulsa. Walling wears them in all seasons. If the day is warm, she’ll wear them with a tank and wedges. If it’s cold out, all she has to do is add tights underneath for an extra layer of warmth. She also likes to wear them high-waisted. Another favorite item in Walling’s closet is a Jean Paul blouse, a designer she admires. The blouse (pictured above) has a unique blend of floral and paisley patterns printed on a semi-see-through fabric with cuffs on the collar and sleeves. Walling loves this style because of its uniqueness. Walling lets fashion guide her through tough times and good times. She lets her inward reality come forth by the outward expression of her clothes. Encountering new things through clothing will only continue in the future.
Photos by Cassandra Van Dam
Walling wears a white Tupac t-shirt paired with a burnt orange pencil skirt, black booties and a patterned cardigan accessorized with hoop earings and nude lipstick.
Get cultured: First Friday Art Crawl Russell Dorsey Staff Writer
Each day, galleries and museums in the Brady Arts District close their doors around 5 p.m., but once a month they stay open late to have a party. The First Friday Art Crawl is an art fair that takes place on the first Friday of each month at the Brady Arts District in downtown Tulsa. The Art Crawl offers different styles of art including paintings, photography, sculptures, poetry and live music. The Art Crawl gives artists in the Tulsa area a chance to showcase their talents and artwork, and even sell a few pieces. Many galleries open up their doors with free admission to show off their new pieces as well. The Woody Guthrie Center will open their doors tonight. The center is showing a few different pieces for this month’s Art Crawl. “We currently have two cases containing items that pertain to versions of the song ‘This Land is Your Land,’ which celebrated the 75th anniversary this past Feb. 23,” said Woody Guthrie Center Executive Director Deana McCloud. Each gallery that participates in the Art Crawl not only gets to promote themselves, but they also get to attract new observers.
“We are pleased to participate in First Friday as part of Brady Arts District outreach in order to bring more people to the area and give them a brief look at all things that the district has to offer,” said McCloud. The Art Crawl takes place year round. Whether it’s sunny or raining, snowing or sleeting, patrons can see great art. The Brady Arts District is a great place to hang out with friends who want to do something different or for a relaxed, but sophisticated, date night. Various restaurants and cafés line the streets within walking distance from the different galleries open during the Art Crawl, some even offering special deals on First Fridays. Whether it’s watching a demonstration by the Tulsa Glassblowing School, seeing a painting from a member of the Tulsa Artists’ Coalition or hearing the soothing words of an aspiring poet while relaxing on the Guthrie Green, the First Friday Art Crawl offers a fun night for all.
Upcoming Dates March 6 (Tonight) April 3 May 1
Photo by Sydney Ilg
Top right: Patrons watch an artisan blow glass at the First Friday Art Crawl. The event occurs the first Friday of the month in the Brady Arts District.
Parks and rec // Fresh air and freedom
Go outside, it’s good for you or something Sydney Ilg Staff Writer
Spring weather is quickly approaching, and once the snow melts there are a few parks in Tulsa and the surrounding area that provide a tranquil escape from campus life. Whether you’re biking, hiking or driving, these parks will be worth the trek. Hunter Park Where? On 91st between Sheridan and Yale If you’re dying to get off campus for some fresh air, head to Hunter Park. The park boasts expansive fields of flat land perfect for a game of ultimate frisbee or soccer. Plenty of pavilions surround the fields as well, providing the perfect setting for a laid-back wing event or group hangout.
Hunter Park also has a large dog park. Rest assured it will increase your desire to sneak a puppy into the dorms by 1,000 percent. Woodward Park Where? The corner of 21st and Peoria Woodward Park is meticulously manicured and hosts a wide array of flowers, plants and water features. And, if you’re feeling particularly romantic, take a stroll through the Tulsa Rose Gardens attached to the park and the Tulsa Historical Society. This park is ideal for a picnic, long walk and an escape from the hurried life on campus. Be warned, the park closes at 11 p.m., and police will lock the gates with your car still inside.
41st Street Plaza Where? 41st and Riverside Bike or drive to this park situated right on the Arkansas River. Venture down to the shores of the river to skip rocks or relive your childhood by taking a spin on what could be the most dangerous playground ever invented. If you have a bike, 41st Street Plaza is a great place to start any bike route through downtown Tulsa. Also, if you head North on Riverside, you’ll eventually run into Historic Route 66 which hosts plenty of its own quirky shops and fun destinations.
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MUSE Don’t waste spring break, or do; it’s up to you
Harley Leitchey Contributing Writer
Spring Break is a wonderful time where you can have no thoughts of school, assignments, exams and annoying classmates. That being said, you may get home for break and think, “Uhh, what do I do now?” You’ve had your life organized around school for three months, and now you have all this free time. Well, I’d like to assist you by providing some tips for a successful spring break.
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Day 1 - Have a rest day. You’ve been stressed out from the rigors of school life. Give yourself time right away to get back to your youthful, lovely self. My suggestion? Sleep as long into the morning and spend your day being really lazy, i.e. Netflix binge watching. Day 2 - Spend time with family. They’ve been missing you and they can’t wait for you to tell them about everything that happened. Okay, maybe not all your parents are “super excited,” but you know, you’ve been gone for some time and if they’re caring parents, they’ll want to see you and spend time with you. Day 3 - Spend it with friends. Sure, you’ll probably have fun with family, maybe, but I’m sure you have friends back at home that you’d have a better time with. Just be sure you have someone besides your old relatives to
hang out with. Day 4 - Go have fun at your old stomping grounds. You know those places back home that you just miss? Like the moment you get there, your heart will be fully content? Well go to those places. Go to your favorite restaurants, coffee shops and parks that you’ve been missing for the last three months. If it helps, make a list of places to go and experience before you get back to campus. Day 5 - Be adventurous. For those of you not worried about going home, be adventurous. Go somewhere you’ve never been before, and enjoy a new place in the states. Visit big cities, beaches, the slopes or just wander on a fun road trip. Take part in events that you can brag about to all your friends. Day 6 - Take time to do some smart things.
Do some organizational tasks to make sure you’re prepped for the rest of this semester. Find better ways or new techniques to finishing the semester strong. Do something productive. And yes, I realize that none of you will actually do this step, but I’m just saying it so I get a “thumbs up” from the faculty and staff for writing this. Day 7 - Most importantly, do whatever you want. Sure, I’ve made some good suggestions, obviously in my opinion, but it’s your spring break. If you want to do nothing the entire week, do it. If you want to work the whole time and make some spending money, do it. Just make sure you enjoy your break and make the most of it. So have fun and come back with great stories to share.
College Weekenders Guide to Dorm Selection
Gabby
Susie “Susie is the medium between all of the other dorms. We are fun and exciting at moments, but we like to sleep. We are a mix of all of the personalities on campus.” –Ashley Rand, Junior Biomedical Chemistry Major
Claudius “Claudius is very energetic and always up for a good time; A very extroverted type of dorm and fun-loving.” –Kelsey Luetjen, a transfer junior communications major
EMR “We are the happy medium between chill and exciting. We can have chill quiet times, but we can have really exciting and energetic times.” –Ben Peterson, freshman marketing major
“I think Gabby is a really diverse dorm. There are seniors who moved to Gabby to get away from it all and then there are freshmen who sign up just for the private bathroom. It gives the opportunity to be social but if you need some alone time you can close your door and have a personal haven. –Cora Skjaerlund, Gabby 2 middle RA
Frances Michael and Wesley “My dorm is very chill. Everybody gets along very well, and it’s where a lot of those who don’t want the constant noise of EMR go..I would say.” –Michael Limentato, freshman business administration major
“I would say Frances is a dorm for students who are more wanting to focus on their studies and respect personal space and privacy while also wanting to have a ton of fun with the girls on their floor.” –Melissa Walter, sophomore nursing major
Illustrations by Quentin Harrup
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