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Opinion | A4 Herbicide sprayed during Vietnam War still claims lives

VOL. 94, NO. 22 T H U R S D AY, F E B R U A RY 2 4 , 2 0 1 1

“Covers the campus like the magnolias”

Obama awards Medal of Freedom to Maya Angelou

Coach Walter lays it all out on the field

A look into the life of the coach nationally recognized for donating a kidney to a player

By Calais Zagarow | Staff writer

Before Feb. 7, Tom Walter was known as a man who loved baseball. Yet, in the aftermath of his selfless decision to donate a kidney to one of his players, freshman Kevin Jordan, it is clear that there is more to the coach than home runs and cleats.

Walter was the first child of a 17-year-old woman named Anne, who lived in New York City. Less than a year after he was born, Anne gave birth to Walter’s sister and then moved to Florida where her parents lived, far away from the father of her children.

The small family of

Graphic by Bobby O’Connor/Old Gold & Black Photo courtesy of the Associated Press

After presenting her the Medal of Freedom, President Barack Obama bent to kiss Maya Angelou, Reynolds professor of American studies.

By Ken Meyer | News editor On Feb. 15 in the East Room of the White House, Reynolds Professor of American Studies Maya Angelou received the Medal of Freedom from President Barack Obama.

“When you look at the men and women who are here today, it says something about who we are as a people,” Obama said.

“This year’s Medal of Freedom recipients reveal the best of who we are and who we aspire to be.”

Speaking in a White House interview on receiving this highest civilian honor, Angelou noted her pride in her American citizenship.

“What I thought about first was how wonderful it was to be an American,” Angelou said. “We have known the best of times and the worst of times. We have actually enslaved people and been enslaved. We have actually liberated people and been liberated.”

Born April 4, 1928, in St. Louis, Mo., Angelou experienced the racial discrimination then the law in the United States.

Throughout her life, she worked as a poet, memoirist, novelist, educator, dramatist, producer, actress, historian, filmmaker, editor and activist fighting against that discrimination and advocating for the civil rights of all people worldwide.

“As a girl, Marguerite Ann Johnson endured trauma and abuse that actually led her to stop speaking,” Obama said.

“But as a performer, and ultimately a writer, a poet, Maya Angelou found her voice. It’s a voice that’s spoken to millions, including my mother, which is why my sister is named Maya.”

Angelou’s varied past took her across the country and around the world.

After studying dance and drama as a teenager, she dropped out of school to become the first black female cable car conductor in San Francisco.

During the 1950s, she toured Europe singing opera, danced on television variety shows, recorded her first album and joined the Harlem Writer’s Guild.

During the 1960s, she lived in Egypt and Ghana editing English language publications and learning to speak French, Spanish, Italian, Arabic and Fanti.

In America in 1964, Angelou stood behind Malcolm X as he formed his Organization of African American Unity.

Martin Luther King, Jr. would later ask her to become the Northern Coordinator of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, an organization then heavily involved in the civil rights movment.

She published her first book, I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings, in 1970.

This autobiography of her early life considered the racial discrimination she faced in her youth and constructed literature as a medium through which she overcame trauma.

This work was nominated for the 1970 National Book Award and remained for two years in the New York Times bestseller list.

In 1972, Angelou wrote the screenplay and composed the score for the film Georgia, Georgia.

This would be the first script written by a black

See Angelou, Page A7

three remained in Florida until Anne met Ralph, the man who Walter considers his father. They married soon after meeting, then moved their family to Johnstown, the steel mill town in western Pennsylvania that Walter calls home.

Walter’s love for baseball stemmed from his father and grandfather, two men who he describes as having a great deal of love and passion for the game. He also attributes his affinity for baseball to his upbringing in Johnstown. It was the sort of neighborhood where children played ball with their fathers in the streets until the night shift at the mill began at dusk.

“Johnstown was one of those really safe places where you could go out and run around the streets all day,” Walter said. “All we did was play ball; in football season you played football, in basketball season you played basketball and in baseball season you played baseball. I couldn’t have asked for a better place to grow up.”

Walter’s football career was short-lived. In the ninth grade he sustained an injury that caused him to miss the first few games of the basketball season. However, throughout his high school career, he continued to thrive on both the diamond and the court and even had the option of attending college for both baseball and basketball at Franklin and Marshall College in Lancaster, Pa.

See Walter, Page B10

Business team sweeps KPMG national tournament in N.Y.

By Hilary Burns | Asst. life editor

Four students from the Wake Forest University Schools of Business took first place in the national round of the KPMG International Case Competition Feb. 1 in New York.

The team included senior Megan Petitt, junior Tim Rodgers, senior Swayze Smartt and senior Afton Vechery.

The competition was comprised of business case studies, which each team had only three hours to read.

The teams then had to develop a 20-minute board presentation to give in front of a panel of judges and prepare for a Q&A session.

“A camera crew was in the room to watch us open our case,” Petitt said.

The team was put in a conference room with just a computer and a white board to prepare the presentation.

Smartt said the case involved the international bank Credit Suisse.

The team had to develop a strategy to expand its international microlending practice.

Photo courtesy of Media Relations

For the second year in a row, the Schools of Business team took first at the national KPMG tournament.

The case required not only a detailed knowledge of finance, but also familiarity with current events because it considered a global predicament.

“Learning how to analyze a broad set of seemingly complex problems and synthesize them into a solid multifaceted creative solution in a short period of time is a skill that is not only essential for the Schools of Business coursework, but our futures careers at large,” Vechery said. The case studies are

meant to promote development both analytical and creative skills.

“I felt like the KPMG competition really gave our team the platform to bring together all the information we have learned in and outside the classroom,” Vechery said.

The participants felt well-prepared for the competition and believed partaking in the tournament improved their presentation

See KPMG, Page A3

2011 Founders’ Day Convocation recognizes university students and faculty

Photo courtesy of Media Relations

Gowned professors at the Founders’ Day Convocation Feb. 17 applaud for senior orator Ashley Gedraitis.

By Rob Byrd | Staff writer The university community gathered Feb. 17 in Wait Chapel for Founders’ Day Convocation, an annual assembly that honors the university’s founding in February 1834. The convocation is also meant to honor those who have helped

shape the university’s legacy over the past year, as it recognizes outstanding achievements by faculty, alumni and students.

Among the students honored were the three finalists for the senior orations. Convocation acted as the venue for the orations for the second time in the tradition’s history.

Originally taking place during graduation weekend, the ceremony was moved to Founders’ Day in 2010.

The orators for the Class of 2011 were seniors Catherine Berenato, Ashley Gedraitis and Ava Petrash.

Berenato delivered an address titled “Building Bridges at Home and Abroad” that reflected on her experience at the university and offered advice to the people who will remain here after she leaves.

“We must continue to build bridges, not just to foreign countries, but to those who seem like foreigners in our midst,” Berenato said.

“For the greatest knowledge is not solely learned in textbooks, but is enhanced and developed through our everyday interactions with all members of our Wake Forest family.”

Gedraitis’ speech “Application for the Class of 2011” examined through the medium of literature how she had changed over her time at the university.

Looking at her past service in the Mississippi Delta and toward her future work in Boston, Petresh spoke on the value of volunteering.

The transcripts of each speech can be read in their entirety at news.wfu.edu.

Each year, faculty members nominate worthy seniors to prepare orations, and

ten students are invited to present their orations before a faculty panel. The panel then selects the three finalists.

Along with the orations, Student Body President Natalie Halpern introduced a video honoring the senior class.

As a montage of candid, well-spoken interviews with various seniors, it offered advice for future students and reflected on some of the seniors’ best memories, experiences and relationships at the university.

The video can be viewed on YouTube.

Seniors were not the only students recognized at the event.

President Nathan O. Hatch honored the women’s soccer and golf teams for the university’s best athletic performances last season.

Each team won the Atlantic Coast Conference title.

The Demon Divas acapella group, who sang “Fidelity” and “Fireflies,” was honored with the invitation to perform for the university community.

Harold R. Homes, associate vice president of student life, recognized student leaders and scholars for their work over the past year.

Senior members of the Mortar Board and Omicron Delta Kappa honor society were present at the convocation and received applause, as did the

undergraduate members of the Judicial Board, Honors and Ethics Council, and Board of Investigators and Advisers.

President Hatch thanked these students for their committed duty to “seek the truth” and their dedication to “upholding the Honor Code, which is central to university life.”

Provost Jill Tiefenthaler recognized outstanding work by faculty in both research and teaching.

She presented seven awards to faculty from the undergraduate college, law school, divinity school and Schools of Business.

She also presented two alumnae, Melanie Huynh-Duc (M.A.Ed. ‘05) and Amy Talley (M.A.Ed. ’06), with the Waddill Excellence in Teaching Award, which is given annually to two outstanding alumni teachers.

Each recipient received a $20,000 award, one of the largest monetary prizes for any teaching award in the country.

The university’s highest honor, the Medallion of Merit, was presented to trustee Wayne Smith (’60).

Since 1968, the Medallion of Merit has been awarded to 54 recipients who have given distinguished service to the university and have included past presidents, trustees, benefactors, alumni, and retired faculty and administrators.

A2 Thursday, February 24, 2011

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President’s Aide will be selected from student application process Rising seniors and juniors are eligible to serve as student body representatives during a variety of school-sponsored activities. One of the most honorable representative positions to receive, though, is President’s Aide.

These individuals act as liaisons between the student body and the administration.

The deadline for the application is March 12. The requirements for application are minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA, multiple displays of leadership and an ability to participate as a President’s Aide for no less than one academic year.

Forum addresses state of the humanities in American colleges President of the National Humanities Center, Geoffrey Harpham, will speak on the current state of the humanities in American colleges and curriculum trends.

The discussion is sponsored by the Programs in Humanities Forum and will take place at 3 p.m.

Feb. 28 in Benson 407.

Following Harpham’s remarks, the audience will break into smaller groups to discuss the humanities program at the university. The event will conclude with reports from those groups and discussion by all in attendance. A wine and cheese reception will follow.

Princeton Review rates university among 50 best value colleges Based on surveys conducted between fall 2009 and fall 2010, the Princeton Review listed the university as one of the 50 private colleges providing students the best value on their tuition.

Of the 50 schools chosen, the top 10 are ranked 1 to 10. The university is included among the remaining unranked 40.

The Princeton Review based its ranking on criteria including academics, cost of attendance and financial aid. The methodology examined more than 30 factors using data from the Princeton Review’s surveys of administrators and students at 650 colleges with strong academic programs.

Artist Common to speak on volunteerism and local engagement The Office of Multicultural Affairs brings Common, a prolific artist and activist, to campus to speak on the topic of community involvement. He will speak at 7 p.m. Feb. 25 in Wait Chapel.

All members of the university community are welcome to attend.

University alumus performs a recital with famed guitarist The music department welcomes guest artists Rupert Boyd and Johanna Young to campus for a performance Feb. 26.

Boyd is a guitarist who has performed throughout the United States, Spain, Italy, Australia and France.

Young is a native of Fayetteville, N.C., and a university graduate (‘08).

The two artists began their collaboration in March 2010 after performing in Carnegie Hall in New York City.

The recital will feature works by Ernesto Cordero, Manuel de Falla and Heitor Villa-Lobos and will take place at 3 p.m. in Brendle Recital Hall. Tickets are $10 for general admission and $5 for students.

By Mandy Emma | Contributing writer The Departments of History and Political Science has welcomed Avihu Zakai, a professor of history from the Hebrew University in Jerusalem, for the spring semester. Zakai teaches a humanities course titled After Auschwitz: Holocaust Literature, Art and Theology, a history course titled Science and Religion in Early Modern History and a political science course titled The Holocaust and the Politics of Meaning. At the moment, he’s collaborating with David Weinstein, professor of political science, on a book entitled Exile and Interpretation.

Having come to North Carolina from Israel, have you experienced culture shock?

North Carolina is indeed far away from Israel but I have been in the United States many times in the past, studying toward my Ph.D. at Johns Hopkins University, spending sabbatical years at Princeton University and the University of Pennsylvania, and teaching at Cornell University and the University of Pennsylvania.

Plus, my two sons are working here: one in the film industry in Hollywood, working with Eco Lake Entertainment, and the other in Silicon Valley, working with Mozilla-Firefox.

I really like to come to the United States You immediately feel at home here, in clear contrast, for example, to some countries in Europe.

America is a country made of many nations; hence, almost everyone could feel at home here.

Were you born in Israel?

I was born in Israel, in a kibbutz, a collective farm community, which happened to be a very leftist, Marxist one. It was established by young Jewish pioneers who sought to radically transform Jewish life by returning to Israel and work on the land. During the ‘50s, at the time of the Cold War, we had been taught to hate the United States and love the United Soviet Socialist Republics.

How would you describe your childhood?

Given that my kibbutz was a very leftist, Marxist one, religion was very disliked there.

We were taught in Marx’s famous saying that “religion is the opiate of the masses.”

On the other hand, childhood in the kibbutz was a dream, like the wonderful life depicted

by Mark Twain in his book the Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.

Because Israel was very poor at that time, from 1940 to 1960, and our parents had to work many hours, we slept in a children house.

So we were totally free — no real school, no discipline and we did almost whatever we wanted.

As children in the kibbutz, life was perfect for us, though sometimes we experienced hard time among ourselves, as depicted for example in William Golding’s book Lord of the Flies.

You should understand that because of the Holocaust, my parents, and in fact all of their generation, lost almost every member of their family in Europe. They became orphans around the age of 40. So, as children, the people of

Sustainability meets feminism in Trible Lecture Series Sponsored by the School of Divinity, the Phyllis Trible Lecture Series will present a two-day series of speakers and luncheons titled “The Greening of Feminism.”

Elizabeth A. Johnson, Daisy L. Machado, Jeanette Rodriguez and Phylis Trible will all make presentations during the series.

For a full schedule of the events for each day, visit the School of Divinity website.

Lectures will begin at 12 p.m March 1 in Brendle Recital Hall and run through March 2. Registration is necessary to attend the lecture series. The form can be found online. Lectures are free to all members of the university community.

Carolyn Elliott/Old Gold & Black

Reynolda House speaker captures last century’s trains The Reynolda House Museum of American Art will present a speech on the photography of O. Winston Link given by Thomas Garver, assistant to O. Winston Link and organizing curator of the O. Winston Link Museum in Roanoke, V.A. Garver’s lecture is titled “They Worked While You Slept: The Photographs of O. Winston Link.” Admission is free to university faculty, staff and students and costs $5 for the general public.

The speech will illuminate an ongoing exhibit now showing at the museum titled “Trains That Passed In The Night” that focuses on Link’s photography that illustrates the construction of trains in the 19th century.

Spring Break

Deacon Profile

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Political Science: Avihu Zakai my generation did not have uncles and aunts, nor grandfathers and grandmothers. The first grandparents I saw, with white hair, was only when I was 16.

Because of the terrible horrors of the Holocaust and the losing of all their families, the people of my parents’ generation raised large families of four or more.

My family had four children. I would like to add that during the Six Days War in 1967, and Yom Kippur War in 1973, I served with my late brother in the Israel Defense Forces, he as a Major in a Tank Unite and I as a Captain in a Parachute Unite.

Just imagine the terrible fear of my parents, who lost all their family in the Holocaust, when they saw us going to these terrible wars.

he has visited Israel on many occasions and I helped him establish the Wake Forest-Hebrew University Exchange.

Your class “After Auschwitz: Holocaust Literature, Art and Theology” deals with a time in history where the Jews endured incredible hardship. Would you mind giving students a glimpse of the course?

My course, “After Auschwitz: Holocaust Literature, Art and Theology,” examines how a series of prominent German-Jewish intellectuals, like Erich Auerbach, Hans Baron, Karl Popper, Leo Strauss, Hanna Arendt and more, reshaped the terrain of European intellectual history, history of political thought, political philosophy, literature, philosophy, through the prism of their vehement anti-fascism and through their Did your family influence your decision to be- existential suffering in exile during WWII. come a history and political science professor?

They all fled continental Europe with the rise If not, what experience inspired you to teach? of European fascism in the 1930s.

As a son of the kibbutz, we were not supposed For each, the epoch’s political and social to pursue private, individual goals outside the emergency was simultaneously an intellectual kibbutz, especially not in the realm of higher emergency, leading them all to wield intelleceducation. tual history as a weapon for fighting totalitariHence, both my anism. parents opposed And since their my decision to exile was caused, Avihu Zakai go to study at the in part, because Hebrew Univerthey were Jewish, • Visiting professor from the Hebrew University in sity of Jerusalem. their response was Jerusalem Their great hope also, in part, as was that I stay in Jews.

• Born on a kibbutz, a collective farm community the kibbutz and Exiled from the in Israel continue their citadels of Ger• Collaborating on Exile and Interpretation with mission in life. man culture that Professor David Weinstein Accordingly, dehad once nurspite their will, tured them, they • Currently teaching: After Auschwitz: Holocaust and of many other read their exisLiterature, Art, and Theology; Science and friends of mine in tential predicaReligion in Early Modern History; and Holocaust the kibbutz, I bement into their came a professor interpretations of and the Politics of Meaning of history. canonical texts, rewriting intellecWhere did you tual history and attend college and what was your favorite its practice in the process. course?

I studied history and philosophy at the He- What inspired you to teach this class? Is there brew University of Jerusalem both toward a a childhood experience or a family story that Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree. My particularly influenced you? favorite courses were in history.

A couple of years ago, David Weinstein and I We were taught by people whose lives were began to think about writing a book on some shattered by World War II and the Holocaust; major German-Jewish intellectuals who shaped hence, history and philosophy for them were their field of study or discipline following their not mere academic issues but also a life and exilic displacement from Nazi Germany during death issue. Naturally, their lives and teaching the 1930s. Given that both of us were busy at were very politicized. that time writing other books, only now have we had the time to concentrate on this new exWhat further education did you pursue? citing study. What inspired us both is the terAfter finishing my Master’s degree at a He- rible experience of Jewish intellectuals and their brew University of Jerusalem, I came to Johns heroic struggle to save Western humanist and Hopkins University and studied for my Ph.D. Enlightenment culture in face of the horrors of in Early Modern History and Early Nazism and Fascism, racism and chauvinism.

American History.

What future goals do you have as How did you hear about Wake an academic?

Forest? What specifically are I was asked to write a book on you researching here? my kibbutz. Plus, I would like to I heard about Wake Forfinish a long book I have been est from a very dear friend of working on for years on history mine, the well-known, exceland literature during the early lent scholar David Weinstein. modern period, dealing with We met first at Johns Hopkins such writers as Jonathan Swift, during the 1980s. Since then, Daniel Defoe and others.

News Old Gold & Black

Thursday, February 24, 2011 A3

Babcock noise leads to stricter quiet hour enforcement

By Alex Azzara | Staff writer

A series of noise violations in Babcock Residence Hall raised concerns among students and parents during the fall semester. Over the past month, Residence Life & Housing staff members ended the complaints by enforcing quiet hours, an action that angered many students living in the residence hall.

Last semester’s complaints addressed a wide range of behavior including loud voices, high music volume and the abuse of television, video games and recreation games.

Cherise James, residence life coordinator for South Campus, communicated with Babcock RAs via email at the end of last month to ensure that courtesy hours were in effect 24 hours a day.

Her email highlighted how students should be respectful of their peers at all times.

According to noise policy regulations, quiet hours are in effect from Sunday through Friday from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m. and on the weekends from 2 a.m. to 12 p.m.

While any noise above normal conversational level is considered loud and excessive and is prohibited during these hours, courtesy hours are in effect 24 hours a day, seven days a week, both inside and outside of the building.

James’ email further insisted that RAs living on floors whose lounges have televisions or game systems remove those items immediately.

The South Campus coordinator also requested in the email that RAs on rounds or walking through halls who see multiple residents gathered together talking or play games request that the residents go down to the formal parlor.

James noted in her email that while students often use the parlor to study and could be disrupted by noise, those students could always use other locations on campus such as the library.

The email concluded with the enticement that there is a television located in the parlor that residents could use.

In an interview, James stressed RL&H support of academic success through these measures. “We want to ensure that everyone is having a fair experience, and we have to be fair to those who are being disrupted and make sure their voices are being heard,” James said. James determined that the Residence Life & Housing staff was addressing the noise violations in ways that would allow residents to better respect the community living standards.

James also sees structural challenges in Babcock’s lounge spaces as the hall does not have doors enclosing the common area, which could help buffer the noise.

Quake strikes New Zealand and destroys Christchurch On Feb. 22, a 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck Christchurch, New Zealand — the country’s second largest city.

The quake resulted in at least 92 fatalities, damaging buildings and buckling streets. An aftershock from the quake also rocked the city a few moments later.

An evacuation of the city, including both its hospital and its airport, is now underway according to the New Zealand Police.

This region of New Zealand has suffered from a series of quakes since September.

Pirates kill four Americans on yacht Jenn Paradise/Old Gold & Black

Increased complaints over noise in Babcock Residence Hall last semester led Residence Life & Housing to insist upon compliance with quiet hours.

Although repeated noise violations can lead to monetary sanctions and loss of housing privileges, James argues that self-regulation is the more important point.

Residents’ responses to these policies ranged from outraged anger to contentment.

Freshman Aaron Colston, a Babcock resident, expressed his displeasure at the policy enforcement.

“Babcock is one of the few dorms with minimal lounge space to begin with and to take away the little that we do have is somewhat frustrating,” Colston said.

“We pay so much money to go here and to tell us where we can congregate is acting somewhat rash. I know in my hall personally the lounge is where we do homework and socialize; eliminating this will alter the dynamic of our hall on a whole.”

Freshman Molly Dunn, another resident, echoed Colston’s sentiments.

“When I first learned they were enforcing a ban in our hall I was upset that there was no prior warning,” Dunn said.

“What bothered me the most was the restriction of lounge space for studying. They said no more than three people were allowed in the lounge at one time. The lounge is a relaxing atmosphere and

I spent a lot of time there last semester. Honestly, it’s just people being friends.”

Freshamn Alexandra Feinberg believed that the problem was only minimal anyway. She stood with her fellow first years in noting that the enforcement went too far. “My dorm room is right next to the lounge and it got pretty noisy some nights last semester but everyone was really respectful and always quieted down when you asked them to,” Feinberg said. “I didn’t contribute to the noise problem in the first place so I was upset my rights to use the lounge space was taken away.”

On the other hand, Derrica Barbee, current Babcock resident and a former RA, believed the noise issues in Babcock have always been a problem.

“I live in the basement of Babcock and can hear everything from late night wrestling matches to ragers circa 4 a.m.,” Barbee said.

Since the strict enforcement of courtesy and quiet hours began, however, Barbee is pleased to have noticed an improvement in the residence hall’s decibel levels. “I will say that the noise has definitely improved this semester and I appreciate it. As a former RA, quiet hours are important but people always forget about the courtesy hours which makes a world of difference,” Barbee said.

ACADEMIC ADVISING KPMG: Team succeeds SERVES 5,000 VISITORS in N.Y. and goes global Continued from Page A1

John Turner/Old Gold & Black

In 125 Reynolda Hall, the staff of the Office of Academic Advising surprised junior Vanessa Schwartz Feb. 18 with the announcement that she was their 5,000th visitor.

Passing this milestone, the office renewed its professed commitment to providing a comprehensive system for monitoring student academic progress, increasing faculty-student engagement, and encouraging individual students to make intentional and exploratory course decisions both inside and outside of the university classroom.

The office staff further noted that they sought to continue to work closely with the Office of Student Life, Career Services, the Department of Counseling, and other student support staff in order to enhance the university’s efforts to mentor and educate students in the liberal arts tradition.

and analytical skills. “Because many classes in the Schools of Business utilize real-world business cases as a core part of their curriculum, I have been wellprepared to synthesize complex business problems to their core issues,” Smartt said.

The competition left participants anxious for the international tournament.

“I took a lot away from this experience including discovering how much I enjoy presenting new initiatives,” Petitt said.

“It definitely sharpened my analytical skills and encouraged creativity.”

The competition consisted of various levels including a preliminary round at the university, a regional round in Atlanta and a national round in New York.

At the national round, the university’s team competed against teams from Boston College, University of Maryland, University of Texas, University of Illinois and the University of Washington.

The team will be representing the United States in the global competition April 6-8 in Istanbul, Turkey.

The university is the defending international champion for the competition and the team aims to reclaim that title.

Smartt is the only member of this year’s team who participated on the team last year.

“As a team, we had to think critically and balance the core questions of the case with a level of out-of-the-box creative thinking,” Smartt said.

The team believed their success to be derived from the criti-

“We are able to employ creative concepts and frameworks yet back them up with convincing financial.”

Afton Vechery

Schools of Business KPMG National Team

cal thinking emphasized at the Schools of Business.

The members of the team stressed that combining these skills with global knowledge and multicultural understanding is critical in today’s ever-growing world.

“I think one of the things that makes our team unique is that we are able to employ creative concepts and frameworks yet back them up with convincing financials and articulate the combination clearly,” Vechery said.

POLICE BEAT Medical Emergencies • A student reported to Student Health at 6:49 p.m. Feb. 14 after suffering an allergic reaction to almonds. The student was then transported to Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center • A victim became overheated at 7:25 p.m. Feb. 18 in Scales Fine Arts Center while waiting for an extended time in line.

Alcohol and Drug Charges • While observing students for noise complaints, University Police found one student was consuming alcohol underage at 6:50 p.m. Feb. 18 at a party on Macon Drive. In addition to this citation, several parking tickets were also issued.

•. University Police were asked to assist the Winston-Salem Police Department in responding to

Outside the Bubble

noise complaints at 12:29 a.m Feb. 19 at Barclay Terrace. University Police found a large off-campus party upon investigation and 33 citations were issued for underage consumption.

• University Police responded to a call at 2:42 a.m. Feb. 19 in Collins Residence regarding the potential consumption of marijuana.

Upon further investigation, University Police could not find the room from which the smell was coming.

Larceny • Unknown subject(s) removed an unsecure laptop from a secure cubicle at 11:20 a.m. Feb. 15 in Reynolds Library.

• Unknown subject(s) removed a black couch at 8:35 p.m. Feb. 18 from the Pi Kappa Alpha lounge in Davis Residence.

Pirates off the coast of Somalia hijacked a yachting vessel carrying four Americans last week.

During negotiations with U.S. military Feb. 22, the American forces opened fire on the pirates. Three pirates were killed, and one was arrested.

When the military forces boarded the ship, they found the four Americans in critical condition. The pirates had shot the four when the shoot-out began. All four died from their wounds.

After Tunisia and Egypt, protests rock Gadhafi’s Libya Following the lead of protestors in the neighboring countries of Tunisia and Egypt, protestors in the North African country of Libya took to the streets over the last week demanding the end of the 40-year-long rule of Moammar Gadhafi.

The protestors have taken control of military bases, major cities and much of the country.

Gadhafi promised to restore order in the country, to hold on until the last bullet. He turned military aircraft on the protestors to force them out of the streets earlier this week, a move inciting anger from Western governments including those of France, Italy and the U.S. In a statement on the government-run news channel, Gadhafi’s son warned the country that the protests would lead to civil war between Libya’s major tribes. Despite the warnings and violence, protests continued unabated.

Sudanese President will not seek re-election Omar al-Bashir, president of Sudan, announced Feb. 21 that he will not run for re-election in four years.

Rejecting claims that he feared protests rocking countries across Africa and the Middle East would begin in Sudan, alBashir promised to allow a transition led by the National Party Congress to a more democratic government. al-Bashir has been president of Sudan since he took power in a coup in 1989. In 2010 he dodged a warrant for his arrest issued by the International Criminal Court for crimes of genocide in the wartorn Darfur region.

Protests and an election overtake Midwest politics Wisconsin, Ohio and Illinois saw their political roadmaps changed over the last week amidst a Chicago election and union protests.

Democrats in the Wisconsin legislature left the state earlier in the week to avoid allowing a bill seeking to end collective bargaining from reaching the floor. After returning, they kept the legislature up Feb. 23 with a droning filibuster that continued throughout the night.

Union protestors in Ohio sought to strike down a similar debate as workers lined up outside the legislature.

Chicago saw former White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel won a hotly contested mayoral election Feb. 22. He won the seat after the state supreme court overturned a ruling barring him from the race.

Old Gold & Black Directory Miscellaneous • An unknown subject(s) used another student’s deacon card and made purchases at subway at 4:42 p.m. Feb 16. The case is pending further investigation.

• University Police were asked to assist the Winston-Salem Police Department in responding to four noise complaints between 5:39 p.m. and 6:50 p.m. Feb. 18 on Long Drive, Palm, Macon and Brookwood.

Police did not issue any citations for noise complaints.

• University Police responded to a call at 1:21 a.m.

Feb. 19 in Hearn Plaza regarding a victim being verbally harassed. The offender was transported to Student Health after threatening suicide. He was kept under observation for the night and released in the morning.

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O PINION O L D

This column represents the views of the Old Gold & Black Editorial Board.

T

While there appeared to be a decent amount of supporters at the beginning of the game, the numbers rapidly dwindled, which puts the university and its students in a bad light. The incredible gesture made by Walter became national news, yet the majority of our student body decided not to support our Deacs and their head coach.

This is an incredibly sad statement, but not surprising based on depleted attendance rates at many Wake home games. Opening day was so much more than a baseball game. This game was an opportunity to say thank you.

However, it's not too late to go to another game to show your support for Walter and our Deacs.

Differences in class difficulty need equalizing

U

pon first glance, all courses at the university are equal.

An "A" is assigned a 4.0 GPA value, a "B" is assigned a 3.0, a "C" is assigned a 2.0 and the like. However, as many students across all major fields realize, the issue is never that simple.

Websites like wakeratings.com exist in part for students to differentiate the "easy" professor from the "hard" one.

But why should a professor teaching one subject have an average class grade of 85 and another professor teaching the exact same course have a class average of 70? The answer is that professors have different teaching agendas.Some professors want to get the most out of their students, demanding the utmost effort for them to squeak out a B. For these professors, Ds are more common than As. Others give their students a fair opportunity to receive an A if they put in work among the top 10 to 20 percent of the

class. Some professors tend to set unrealistic bars for achievement while others feel sympathy for their students and assign As and Bs much more generously.

Regardless of which approach is the correct one, departments across all majors need to get things in check and equalize courses. If an employer sees an 88 on one university student's transcript for ENG 331 and a 72 on another student's transcript, it appears that student A was more studious than student B. However, this discrepency isn't explained by the fact that student B had the more demanding professor who graded essays with a vengeance.

Courses should all be equally challenging, no matter who is teaching them. Within the same department, a 100 level class should be easier than a 200 level, which in turn should be easier than a 300 level. The "luck of the draw" in which professor you receive for a class shouldn't automatically determine what your grade should be.

OLD GOLD&BLACK T h e S t u d e n t N e w s pa p e r o f W a k e F o r e st U n i v e r s i t y s i n c e 1 9 1 6

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News: Ken Meyer, editor. Lindey Campagne, assistant editor.

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Life: Renee Slawsky, editor. Hilary Burns, assistant editor.

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B L A C K

Word on the Quad | Student Voices What’s your favorite part of spring semester?

Students need to support Coach Walter’s gesture

he start of the 2011 baseball season began with a special tribute to Coach Tom Walter, who has become a hero at the university for donating a kidney to freshman Kevin Jordan.

Though the surgery occured Feb. 7, Walter was back with the team Feb. 18, when they took on LSU in Baton Rouge, La. By the time the Demon Deacons took the field in their Feb. 22 home opener against Western Carolina University, Walter was fully ready to go — just in time to receive a warm welcome from the home fans. Yet despite free admission, a beautiful, though slightly chilly day, and free pizza for all fans, the stands remained largely empty, excluding a small group of dedicated students.

G O L D

Submissions The Old Gold & Black welcomes submissions in the form of columns and letters to the editor.

Letters should be fewer than 300 words and columns should be under 750 words. Send yours via e-mail to leseje0@wfu.edu, by campus mail to P.O. Box 7569 or

“The NCAA Basketball Tournament.”

Joe Vastola Sophomore Rockville Centre, N.Y.

“The weather going from cold to warm.”

Shannon McGorry Junior Gibsonia, Pa.

deliver it to Benson 518 by 5 p.m. the Monday before publication.

We reserve the right to edit all letters for length and clarity. No anonymous letters will be printed.

Quick Quotes

“Slip ’N Slide parties.”

Carrie Epstein Junior Inverness, Ill.

“Shag on the Mag.” David Cox Senior Asheboro, N.C.

Breaking the Wake Forest Bubble | Hamlin’s Ramblins

Agent Orange effects linger in Vietnam

Toxic chemical sprayed during the war still harms

Hamlin Wade

T

Staff columnist

he Vietnam War is a sore spot in the memories of many American citizens. From 1955 to 1975, the United States found itself entrenched in a war of unrecognizable proportions. Due to the unprecedented tactical disadvantages faced by American soldiers, action had to be taken to level the playing field, ultimately crippling the guerrilla warfare tactics held by members of the Vietnamese military.

The solution? Agent Orange, an herbicidal chemical extensively used to eradicate jungle flora throughout the Vietnamese countryside. Often used at levels upwards of 50 times the recommended usage, Agent Orange decimated fields and jungles alike.

However, unexpected consequences accompanied the use of this chemical, resulting in adverse health conditions contracted by both the Vietnamese people and the American soldiers responsible for its distribution.

Some 35 years later, the effects of this chemical are still evident in Vietnam, as children are born with birth defects and families are ripped apart at the seams. The war may be over, but the conversation cannot end.

Unfortunately, it seems that the focus of the consequences of Agent Orange has been politicized. Many claim that Agent Orange has had little effect on the people of Vietnam, that it is simply a propaganda campaign by the Vietnamese government to garner international sympathy and financial support for the cleanup of their countryside. Yet, the facts remain.

There still exist some 28 hot spots of Agent Orange, commonly concentrated around former U.S. airport bases where the chemical loaded into planes.

Furthermore, these hot spots still affect the local communities, as the dioxin produced by Agent Orange attaches itself to fish consumed by the nearby citizens.

Agent Orange can affect individuals in a variety of ways, most commonly in the form of birth deformations and defects.

Some Vietnamese children are born without eyes and noses. Others are born without the ability to walk or function in a normal societal setting. Some 150,000 children in Vietnam can attribute disabilities to Agent Orange.

Agent Orange can destroy the livelihood of a family, as they are forced to concentrate

solely on the care of those unable to attend to the most simplistic of tasks.

Thankfully, organizations such as the Ford Foundation, locally based non-profit Children of Vietnam and others have acknowledged the continuing effects of Agent Orange in the communities of Vietnam. Even the United States government has pledged some $24 million to help clean up hot spots across Vietnam. However, a handful of non-profit organizations cannot completely eliminate the hardships brought on by the actions of the United States over three decades ago. If there is to be a future Vietnam that is not riddled by the effects of Agent Orange, global action is required.

It is important to leave any misconceived notions at the door. This is not a propagandist campaign by a bitter government. This is not a ploy for monetary donations.

There is a powerful and prevalent problem in Vietnam thanks to Agent Orange. It is important that the world understands the effects of this harmful chemical and unites behind the people of Vietnam. It is possible to eliminate the problems associated with Agent Orange; however, it is only possible if the global community pays attention and takes action.

The story in Vietnam is not unique.

War has a long history of destroying buildings in the present and destroying families over the course of time. From the atomic bombs dropped in World

150,000 children in Vietnam today live with severe disabilities because of Agent Orange.

War II to the use of Agent Orange in Vietnam, war has unintended and unpredictable consequences.

Even in today’s conflict in Iraq, United States forces are employing the use of white phosphorus bombs, another chemically reactant bomb with unknown side effects. Yet no matter how bleak the future may look, all hope is not lost.

The Vietnamese people are a resilient culture and they will fight to overcome whatever obstacles they may face.

Families are uniting together in order to overcome the effects of Agent Orange. Vietnam is a country of great hope with a bright future.

If the world is willing to pay attention, the past can finally be eliminated and Vietnam can begin to move forward in the 21st century.

No matter how dark and ominous the past may be, it is never too late to overcome history.

Hamlin Wade is a junior political science major from Charlotte, N.C.

“Most people recognize that drunk driving is a socially unacceptable activity, they are less convinced about the merits of speed.”

- Phil Reed, head of community relations at the Transport Accident Commission, explaining why a small town in Australia changed its name from Speed to Speedkills in an attempt to draw more attention to the dangers of speeding.

“They will likely drift into suburban parks and suburban streets ... they’ll just be living in the city.”

- Storm Sanford, a member of Bat Advocacy NSW, referring to the growing problem of an overpopulation of flying foxes in the Royal Botanical Gardens in Sydney.

“As an environmentallyengaged club Freiburg takes the migration into consideration and asks its supporters for understanding.”

- A spokesman for Freiburg, a German soccer club, in a press release regarding the annual trek of migrating frogs that intersected the path of soccer fans attempting to leave the game.

“We know there are a lot of people that care deeply about the issue, and we respect that. But I’m still not sure that RoboCop is the best message for the city of Detroit.”

- Karen Dumas, a representative from the office of Mayor Dave Bings, discussing the plan to create and display a statue of RoboCop in downtown Detroit, which has garnered significant online support from artists and sculptors through Facebook.

Thursday, February 24, 2011 A5

Opinion Old Gold & Black

Searching for Equality | A Citizen’s Public Duty

Lack of bipartisanship on both sides widens split Presidential race highlights divide

Matt Moran

A

Staff columnist

bout two weeks ago, the Conservative Political Action Committee, or CPAC, held a large meeting that showcased both cemented conservative stars and those on the rise.

It heralds the beginning of the 2012 presidential race, in which whoever wins the Republican primary will compete to unseat President Barack Obama.

For those that envision the future of this country as a gladiatorial arena where both sides pit their favorite

fighter against that of the enemy, these are exciting times. For those of us actually interested in the future of the country in a productive way, they promise to be a mix of frustration and exhaustion.

Everyone talks about bipartisanship as a virtue missing in American politics. Often times, partisanship is posited as a function of “these times” and if the United States can revert back to a mythical past political discourse of civility and consensus, the bickering would stop and government will be more productive.

This is, of course, an a-historical understanding of America’s political past. Compared with the duels and physical fights of yesteryear, today looks pretty good.

But nonetheless, most agree that the political arena in the United States is overly hostile, and bipartisanship is something to strive for. The problem lies just beneath that agreed-to idea.

Ask someone why American politics are so oppositional and you’ll get an answer that is itself deeply partisan in nature.

To generalize, conservatives will say that the far-left agenda, embodied by our current president has hijacked the American government and is plunging us all toward socialism.

To generalize again, the left depicts the conservatives as a mix of heartless rich people and a mass of religious

Parties from the left and the right are equally to blame for growing conflict in Congress. fundamentalists. And there the conversation ends; discussing the partisan divide only ends in a new partisan divide over who’s to blame for the state of politics in America today.

The solution, for both of these “sides,” is for the other to recognize the error of their ways and return to the correct path. With this understanding, America will forever remain helplessly divided.

Governments will cease to function should the legislative majority shift the balance of power against the administration, and bitterness at the inability of the political opponent to

Government ignores growing child poverty issues

Maddy Rose Staff columnist

T

he economic recession has taken a toll on vast segments of society, but it has affected some more than others.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the poverty rate in 2009 rose to 14.3 percent, which is the highest it has been since 1994.

Children make up only a quarter of the nation’s population, but make up an astounding 36 percent of this measure.

One out of every five children live in poverty, and the majority of these children are black or Latino.

The under-representation of minority groups in our nation is still a huge issue facing society, and it really aggravates me to know that our government is not only concealing these facts from our nation, but is also doing little to fix them.

Numerous problems affect these innocent children who are forced to grow up in an environment insufficient to meet their needs.

Malnutrition and serious physical and emotional disabilities may result.

Grade repetition, learning disabilities and significantly lower IQ rates are more prevalent

Struggles to rise out of poverty grow increasingly more challenging for youth. among children in impoverished settings.

Some may be hopeful for the possibility that these children could rise out of their current economic situations with age, but unfortunately, poor children are much more likely than privileged children to end their educational career without a diploma in hand.

Children in poverty average a high school dropout rate of 21 percent, which is significantly higher than the nine percent average for non-poor children.

The numerous amount of environmental stressors placed on children in poverty are key inhibitors to their success.

It needs to be acknowledged that these children should not be held responsible for

living a life of shortcomings, and I can give you a list of reasons why. First off, poor children are born to parents in poverty. The child’s parents are typically not solid role models or advocates for school success.

This child automatically is placed at a disadvantage in his or her learning environment, and he or she is also more prone to having a learning disability, which makes it even harder to succeed in school.

Also, families in poverty typically have negative parenting styles coupled with lower levels of interaction, which further inhibits emotional and mental development.

Impoverished families often live in areas where they are constantly worried for their safety, and the safety of their young children.

Children living in these areas have greater susceptibility to the negative influences of their neighbors and peers, who are also much more likely to be involved in drug use or gangs.

It is a wonder how so many impoverished children are able to graduate from high school at all.

African-American and Latino children are in positions today worse than any other ethnic group.

It has been calculated that a young, black, high school dropout has only a 15 percent chance of being self-sufficient.

Among the 40 percent of black children who are born poor, 85 percent of them cannot read or do math in fourth grade at grade level, and later almost half of these children drop out of school.

It has also been calculated that a black boy born in 2001 has a one in three chance of going to prison sometime in his life.

This is an indicator of the growing racial and class segregation within the United States, which threatens to undermine the racial and social progress of the past half-century.

The lack of racial and socioeconomic equality apparent in the United States is incredibly disturbing, especially when examining its effects on children.

Has anyone realized how racially and socially segregated we are becoming?

Is it fair that some races are basically doomed to fail before even trying?

Is our government actively choosing to do nothing about this problem?

America is not living up to what we are supposed to stand for.

Are we not the nation of freedom and equality for all people?

Are we not recognized worldwide for our socalled “American Dream”?

Children are the most innocent segment of our population and have done nothing to be sentenced to such a terrible fate … and so the question arises: why isn’t anyone doing anything about it?

Maddy Rose is a freshman psychology major from Raleigh, N.C.

Polls by the numbers | Facts and Figures Democrats

Republicans

20 seats

29 seats

Current U.S. Governors

pollster.com

because it confirms beliefs we already held. Such an exercise is intellectually stultifying for the individual and socially damaging for the collective.

We must view the other not as an enemy to be defeated in defense of the “Real America,” but rather as an opportunity for growth and learning.

By opposing the level of division in American politics, I do not mean to oppose diversity of thought. Indeed, the only way to improve a country is to have the presence of diverse perspectives and understandings.

A holistic approach to this diverse environment would incorporate all of these perspectives into one conversation. This is the basis of real solutions, rather than electioneering and lame slogans. However, I am well aware that this will not occur for the 2012 election.

What will follow in the coming year or so will be a deeply dividing and ultimately unproductive national mud slinging. Some people may look forward to this sort of thing — Uncle Sam and I certainly do not.

Matt Moran is a junior history major from Pittsburgh, Pa.

Can you draw?

Maddy Rose Knows | How It Goes

Recession affects welfare of underprivileged youth

recognize their own stupidity will become only more deeply ingrained.

What is required is a systemic shift in American political culture.

Opinion makers today are against such a shift.

They live on and feed off the current culture, though unhealthy for the country.

Glenn Beck spends his weekday nights ferreting out “NaziCommunists,” a being previously unknown in the natural world, in an effort to rid America of its socialist cancer and return to the glory days of the late 1700s.

The similarly indefensible, and recently unemployed, Keith Olbermann formerly spent his evenings getting gradually more sanctimonious, often accompanied by strange organ music as he identified “The Worst People In The World.”

Inevitably, the worst person in the world was not, for instance, Kim Jong-Il, but rather, someone like Michele Bachmann.

We must, as a country, reject the tendency to receive information from a single ideological bloc simply

Do you have opinions? Do you know what’s going on?

Would you like to have cartoons published weekly and get paid for it?

If so, then send Jenn Leser (leseje0@wfu. edu) an email.

U.S. debt could lead to shutdown, lack of stability

Party issues cause concern about resolution of debt

The military budget also needs to be seriously addressed in the near future.

Republicans must understand that past leaders like Dwight D. Eisenhower cut the military budget after World War II, and the George Ewing budget of our military is simply too large to Guest columnist continue on its current trajectory.

I do not think the U.S. government will go bankrupt. Our political leaders always political showdown is looming in have the ability to tax individuals. However, Washington over the government I’m also a full believer that our economy budget for next year. will respond and grow and that we will have Recently, President Obama submitted his brighter days in the future. proposed budget to Congress.

But politicians are bantering over our The debt for our government next year money, spending away our futures and alone is projected to be $1.6 trillion. immobilizing our opportunities. It’s This is part of the total debt for our nation which is currently over $14 trillion and greater important that they truly understand the seriousness of this situation. than 90 percent of our GDP. First, if we must extend the debt ceiling, we Republicans are persistent on cutting the deficit starting now, mainly with newly elected must make a pledge to not do it again.

In addition, a government shutdown is Tea Party advocates and fiscal conservatives not a viable solution to this serious economic looking to maintain campaign promises, problem. while Democrats argue that the RepublicanIf the two parties cannot currently agree on proposed cuts would hurt the economy.

Our elected leaders need to understand one any sort of spending bill, then an extension of stopgap legislature may be a necessary thing — the debt of the nation needs to be solution, at least temporarily, to allow addressed now.

Congress a little more time to figure things I know I could give figures that show why out before our spending problem becomes our nation needs to cut spending at this unsolvable. moment; the scary statistics are enough to The differences between the parties are force anyone into this mind-set. great and are not going to be addressed But where do we start? Are we supposed to overnight, but it’s time our politicians fulfill cut the military budget in the midst of two spending cuts and stop spending money that wars? Do we cut spending when we are not we do not have. completely out of a recession?

As the United States spirals further and In essence, all of our political leaders further into debt, it is clear that we cannot go need to understand that our debt is on an on acting as we did before. unsustainable path, and this starts with Something must be changed about President Obama.

Government programs are going to have to spending habits, especially in relation to the economic recession that we are still fighting be cut, along with ultimate reforms in Social our way out of.

Security and Medicare.

After ascending the speakership, Nancy If I hear one more time that Social Security Pelosi said in 2007: “After years of historic and Medicare are going to eventually deficits, this 110th Congress will commit bankrupt the nation, I might lose my mind. itself to a higher standard: Pay as you go, no If this is true, then politicians should look right now to reform it. Why continually waste new deficit spending.”

I only wish the former speaker had time and our money talking about how these programs need to be changed? Do it now and committed herself to these words. It’s time our elected leaders hold themselves to this deliberate together to achieve this objective. ideal.

I understand that with a divided government this is not going to be easy, but George Ewing is a sophomore history major our elected leaders work for the American from South Charleston, W. Va. people, and it’s time they start acting like it.

A

A6 Thursday, February 24, 2011

Old Gold & Black Opinion/Advertisement

N.C. Congress looks to education reform to remedy budget woes Cutting irrelevant tests saves money Seth Collie

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Guest columnist

or the first time since 1870, Republicans now control both the North Carolina Senate and House of Representatives. Although this personnel rearrangement occurred scarcely three months ago, conservatives are already using their newly acquired influence to work on creating a more balanced budget.

Education has long been a top priority in North Carolina. In fact, educational costs currently account for over 60 percent of the state budget.

However, too much money has been spent, and not enough taxes have been brought in. As a result, there is

about a $3 billion deficit between the state’s incomes and its expenditures.

Republicans have made it clear that they will not raise taxes and that the only budget-balancing alternative is to cut spending.

As budgetary concerns are dealt with at the beginning of this fiscal year, education faces many potential cuts, as it is the largest percentage of the state budget.

No one would deny that education is a very important recipient of tax dollars, so spending cuts in this area are bound to meet resistance.

However, many House Republicans are searching for inefficient and ineffective educational expenditures to eliminate, improving the education system and the budget at the same time. Representatives Bryan Holloway, Hugh Blackwell, Mark Hilton, and Tricia Ann Cotham have sponsored a new bill, House Bill 48,

that will eliminate all standardized testing not required by federal law or for federal grants. Specifically, this bill will eliminate Algebra II, Civics and Economics, Physical Science and United States History End-of-Course Tests, at an estimated savings of nearly $2.7 million per year.

Algebra II and Physical Science are not graduation requirements under North Carolina law.

Sponsors of the bill argue that spending hundreds of thousands of dollars testing in subjects not required for graduation is ridiculous, especially when students will be tested later in higher level maths and sciences building on the same material.

In addition to the cost-saving benefits, there are also benefits to eliminating tests that simply don’t work. Many representatives are convinced that the current testing in schools doesn’t measure competency

L E T T ER T O T H E E DITOR

Changes to the Screamin’ Demons program would promote better attendance

In the Feb. 17 issue of the Old Gold & Black, I enjoyed reading the article about the lack of attendance at basketball games.

However, I disagree with Robert Chin’s quote, about the lack of attendance, namely that “a lot of it has to attribute to the level of play.”

While the Deacs have not been doing so well this season, I disagree with the assessment that lack of attendance is due to the level of play.

I think that the changes to the Screamin’ Demons program also have an effect on the attendance, as it certainly has for me.

As a sophomore, I have been able to see the differences between this season and last year’s season.

Last season, I got an email every single time the Deacs played at home, which was very helpful. Now I am always surprised to hear that the Deacs have a game because it seems like we only get emails before big and important games.

Something that the Screamin’ Demons could do to help attendance is email us a few days before each game and also the day of the game so that we actually know when there is a game that we can go to. Also, the changes to the

overall Screamin’ Demons program from this year compared to last year, are not good. At the beginning of the basketball season, I did not qualify for a seat because I hadn’t earned enough “minutes” during the football season.

While there was the chance that I would get a seat if I showed up, I was not going to go to the game if I thought that there was a chance I wouldn’t get a seat. Last year, I went to every single game because I knew I had to maintain my Screamin’ Demons membership and that I would be guaranteed a seat.

One positive thing I have seen recently is that there is now a shuttle to almost all of the football games. I remember last year as a freshman, I did not have a car, so it was hard for me to find rides and get to games.

I go to every football game because there’s a shuttle but not to all basketball games because there isn’t a similar system in place. Without a car, it’s extremely challenging to make it to any games other than those on campus or football games.

While a winning record would certainly bring students to the games, I think some changes to the Screamin’ Demons program could help encourage more students to attend the basketball games, as well as other sporting events; it is important for the student body to support our teams, and hopefully cheer them on to more successful seasons.

Brittany Coley is a sophomore political science major from Darien, Conn.

or proficiency; it measures memorization, leaving little lasting knowledge of the material. Having gone through many End-of-Course tests, I — and most other students — can certainly verify that claim. In fact, in many subjects, teachers just teach to the test; they teach what they know will be tested, not what students need to learn. This, combined with the ineffectiveness of the tests themselves, as well as the high costs involved, has led to the proposal of the bill that, if passed, will eliminate them. However, some of these subjects should obviously be tested on, especially the ones that are required for graduation, like U.S. History.

House Representative Mark Hilton has held the N.C. District 96 seat for a decade, and has seen the evidence piling up against these tests. Although the Department of Public Instruction has promised tests that work, they

have admitted that there are still problems. Hilton has “lost confidence in them” and won’t support a new test until the DPI comes up with one that is proven effective.

It’s easy to be upset about the budget not being balanced, and it’s just as easy to be upset with a government that takes away benefits, but politicians in power simply cannot fix the budget without cutting spending. A reduction in benefits to repair the current economic crisis we are in is just something we are all going to have to deal with. But it’s certain that representatives like those sponsoring House Bill 48 are on the right track to make acceptable changes that reduce ineffective and inefficient spending, benefitting both society and the state budget.

Seth Collie is a freshman undeclared major from Newton, N.C.

Science fiction grows in popularity, not plausibility Kevin Sullivan Guest columnist

I

saw a recent piece on the Internet about the sighting of the “Loch Ness Monster” in England and a few days earlier, a friend showed me the latest clip of a flying UFO over Israel.

Both of these reports had observers proclaiming how astounding these sightings were, yet nothing else could be confirmed.

Granted, it is perfectly feasible that there is life somewhere else in our massive universe or that there might be a giant pre-historic creature living in a lake in England.

However, I’m not buying it.

With all of the fantastic new technologies out regarding special effects and science fiction movies, I don’t blame people nowadays for seeing aliens in their backyards or the boogie man in their closets.

As people become so enthralled with ridiculous science fiction movies and stories, it should be expected for more and more sightings of sci-fi creatures in real life places to occur.

I’m no scientist but I believe that the chance that there actually is life somewhere else in this universe is probably pretty good. But the embellishment that is put on stories such as Loch Ness or Big Foot is getting ridiculous.

Stories range from 100-foot dinosaur monsters swimming in cold lakes (Loch Ness) to the lone missing link running around in backwoods as half-man, half-ape (Big Foot); and they are only getting worse. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion on these matters,

but I personally happen to think it’s absolutely absurd.

Just as people let their imaginations take hold in science fiction movies, I feel that people run away with their imaginations when placed in certain situations.

Situations that involve dark rooms, long alleys or quiet woods only help make people think they are seeing things that possibly are not even there.

Now we’re all told stories as little kids growing up so that we check the monsters in our closets every night.

That definitely doesn’t help the alien flying saucers that people are more commonly seeing nowadays.

These stories that are meant to scare us as children turn into quests for truth as we become more learned and eventually grow into adulthood.

Some people do eventually dismiss these fairy tales and Halloween horror stories as complete and total acts of fiction, but the select few that become more intrigued with these works are the ones that we hear about in the news and on the web sighting implausible phenomenons.

All in all, people need to get a better perspective about all of this science fiction so we don’t have our web pages filled with sightings and mysterious photographs that likely don’t translate to anything real.

This all doesn’t mean that I’m not a fan of a good sci-fi movie now and again; I’m just saying I’m not afraid of the monsters under my bed the way that I used to be.

Kevin Sullivan is a sophomore history major from Morristown, N.J.

News Old Gold & Black

Thursday, February 24, 2011 A7

Angelou: Entrepreneur Max Siegel finds keys to success President honors professor’s life

By Phil Koroshetz | Contributing writer

Continued from Page A1

woman to ever reach the silver screen, and it was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize.

A decade later in 1982, Angelou joined the faculty of the university as the first Reynolds professor.

Since 1990, Angelou has toured the world on speaking tours. She composed a poem entitled “On the Pulse of Morning” to present at President Bill Clinton’s 1992 inauguration.

Over her lifetime, Angelou has published 30 works and received over 30 honorary degrees. She has served on two presidential committees, was awarded the Presidential Medal of Arts in 2000, the Lincoln Medal in 2008, and has received three Grammy Awards.

Obama honored this lifetime of achievements as he spoke about Angelou during the ceremony. “By holding on, even amid cruelty and loss, and then expanding to a sense of compassion, an ability to love — by holding on to her humanity — she has inspired countless others who have known injustice and misfortune in their own lives,” Obama said.

The recipients of the 2010 Medal of Freedom were first announced in November. The other winners were investor and philanthropist Warren Buffett; former President George H. W. Bush; contemporary artist Jasper Johns; German Chancellor Angela Merkel; Holocaust survivor and humanitarian Gerda Weissmann Klein; Rep. John Lewis (D-Ga.); Tom Little, a doctor who was murdered by the Taliban last August while on a humanitarian mission in Afghanistan; cellist Yo-Yo Ma; civil rights activist Sylvia Mendez; baseball legend Stan Musial; NBA basketball player and coach Bill Russell; arts advocate and former ambassador to Ireland Jean Kennedy Smith; and former AFL-CIO President John J. Sweeney.

Photo courtesy of the White House

Photo courtesy of Clemson University

President of Clemson University James Barker and Teresea Earnhardt introduce a new car with Max Siegel.

Photo courtesy of USA Today

Max Siegel offers words of confidence and encouragement to driver Dale Earnhardt, Jr., before a NASCAR race.

Day one and you’ve set your sights At Ernst & Young, even day one is a chance to focus on your next step.

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The Office of Multicultural Affairs featured Max Siegel in its Journeys to Success Speaker Series Feb. 15 in the Carswell Annenberg Forum.

Siegel is perhaps best-known as the highest-ranking black executive in NASCAR to date. He became the President of Global Operations at Dale Earnhardt Inc. in 2007.

Siegel views his success as remarkable, considering his troubled early years. When Siegel was five, he and his sister were kidnapped by their father. His father lied to him, telling him that his mother had died.

Seven years after the abduction, Siegel’s father died of cancer, and Siegel was reunited with his mother.

Siegel went on to discuss how he now feels he was the victim of a poor public education. Despite being at the top of his class at his local high school, Siegel struggled with classwork at Notre Dame University, where he attended on both academic and baseball scholarship.

Siegel nearly dropped out of college while attempting to earn his pre-med degree. Siegel’s fortunes began to change once he found his true passion and began a major in psychology.

After a brief time working at General Motors (GM), Siegel returned to Notre Dame for law school, becoming the first African American to graduate Notre Dame Law School with honors. After graduate school, Siegel’s career took him through a myriad of entertainment industry positions. Siegel’s break into the entertainment industry began with music. He represented gospel records and artists and eventually became the vice president of Zomba Label and the president of Zomba Gospel.

Through his connections and reputation in the music industry, Siegel was approached by Tony Gwynn of the Sand Diego Padres and Reggie White of the Green Bay Packers to serve as their legal representation.

While a member of Sony’s President’s Council, Siegel was offered the position of President of Global Operations at Dale Earnhardt Inc. (DEI) by Teresa Earnhardt, wife of Dale Earnhardt Sr. Now, Siegel is the CEO of Revolution Racing, a company that gives women and minorities opportunities to become involved in NASCAR. Recounting his roller coaster of a career, Siegel shared some tips on what allowed him to be so successful.

While working at GM, Siegel was advised by a coworker not to let himself be stuck on a one-track path working his way up the GM corporate ladder.

Instead, she instructed Siegel to broaden his experiences and knowledge. It was this mentor that inspired him to return to Notre Dame for law school.

Siegel’s relationships with Dale Earnhardt Jr., Reggie White and Tony Gwynn gave further insight into his success.

Siegel became president of DEI when the younger Earnhardt was on the verge of leaving the company. When he received the news of Siegel becoming the new president of the company, Earnhardt was unimpressed with his lack of NASCAR experience.

However, upon meeting Siegel, Earnhardt’s opinion completely changed. Earnhardt was pleased with Siegel’s eagerness to learn, friendly attitude and openness.

Siegel’s ability to acquire clients like Gwynne and White also impressed Earnhardt.

Some other words of wisdom from Siegel included: accepting and learning from failure; don’t be afraid to ask for what you want; beware of your ego getting you into trouble; and let success be whatever you define it to be.

Siegel’s book, Know What Makes Them Tick, offers more advice on how to negotiate through tricky situations and develop strong business partnerships designed to last for a lifetime.

A8 Thursday, February 24, 2011

Old Gold & Black Advertisement

H e a d B a s e b a l l C o a c h To m W a l t e r d i s c u s s e s h i s g i f t a n d t h e 2 0 1 1 s q u a d . P a g e B 1 0 .

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Travis McKie The freshman forward discusses his biggest inspiration, his favorite class at Wake and his role with this year’s young team.

Page B2.

MEN’S BASKETBALL: 02/26 @ Clemson 03/03 v. Georgia Tech 03/06 @ Boston College

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL: 02/24 @ Clemson 02/27 v. N.C. State 03/03 ACC Tournament

TRACK AND FIELD: 02/24 ACC Indoor 02/25 ACC Indoor 02/26 ACC Indoor

MEN’S TENNIS: 02/27 @ Tennessee 03/05 v. William & Mary 03/05 v. Davidson

WOMEN’S TENNIS: 02/26 v. Old Dominion 02/27 v. N.C. State 03/02 @ Duke

MEN’S GOLF: 02/28 Seahawk Intercol.

03/01 Seahawk Intercol.

03/13 Hackler Champ.

WOMEN’S GOLF: 03/11 LSU Invite 03/12 LSU Invite 03/13 LSU Invite

MEN’S BASEBALL: 02/25 v. Minnesota 02/26 v. Northwestern 02/27 v. Georgetown

{ NATIONAL STAGE } Trevor Bayne becomes youngest driver to win Daytona 500 Trevor Bayne, having turned 20 just the day before, became the youngest NASCAR driver to ever win the Daytona 500.

Before Bayne, the youngest driver to ever win the race was Jeff Gordon in 1997 as a 25-year-old.

Bayne raced for the Wood Brothers team – NASCAR’s oldest team – giving them their fifth Daytona 500 victory of all-time, and their first since winning with driver David Pearson in 1976.

Ironically, Bayne won the race in a No. 21 Ford, which was made to resemble Pearson’s winning car.

This was just Bayne’s second Sprint Cup start.

With the victory, Bayne walked away with $1.46 million.

Carl Edwards and David Gilliland finished in second and third place, respectively.

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A T : w w w. o l d g o l d a n d b l a c k . c o m E D I T O R S : G a r y Pa s q u a l i c c h i o a n d M a t t Po p p e C O N TA C T AT : p a s q g m 8 @ w f u . e d u

Blast from the past: worst season since 1986

1986 Demon Deacons Head Coach: Bob Staak 8-21, (0-14 ACC)

2011 Demon Deacons Head Coach: Jeff Bzdelik 8-20, (1-12, ACC)

“There’s no other way to say it: Wake Forest is embarassing the ACC this season. This is brutal.”

-Andy Katz, ESPN analyst

By Riley Johnston and Bart Johnston Staff writers Barring a complete turnaround in the final three games of the regular season, this will be one of the worst basketball seasons in Wake Forest’s 105-year history. The season can be described in three simple words: frustration, humiliation and defeat.

Sitting at 8-20, including 1-12 in the ACC, the Demon Deacons are stuck at the bottom of the standings, with almost no hope of finishing above last place.

As the season winds down, we will take a look at how this year’s team stacks up against the worst Wake Forest teams in school history and other lackluster teams in ACC history.

Before making any comparisons to other Wake Forest teams, it is necessary to take a glance at the statistics surrounding this year’s edition of Demon Deacon basketball.

Statistical basketball analyst Ken Pomeroy has utilized a formula to

“There’s really no getting around it. This Wake Forest team appears to be the worst major-conference squad in the country. Yikes.”

-Eamonn Brennan, ESPN.com writer

rank every Division I basketball team in the country by adjusting for both strength of schedule and possessions per game. According to Pomeroy, Wake Forest is currently ranked 247th in the country out of 345 teams.

Wake Forest’s RPI (Ratings Percentage Index), which is utilized by the NCAA Tournament Selection Committee, is 245th. Analysts have taken notice of the Deacs futility and believe they are casting a bad light not only on themselves, but the entire ACC. “No other way to say it: Wake Forest is embarrassing the ACC this season,” Andy Katz, an ESPN analyst, said in a recent column.

“This is brutal.”

Now let’s compare this year’s team to the worst two teams in Wake Forest’s history. The 1968 and 1986 teams are tied for having the worst overall records. Both teams lost 21 games, which is an all-time low for the Deacs. However, the 1986 team could not pull off a single conference

win, finishing 0-14 that year, where the 1968 team finished 3-11 in conference play.

Given the lack of conference wins, we will use the 1986 as a comparison to this year’s squad. During conference play in 1986, the Deacs averaged 55.2 points per game and allowed 70.6 points per game, for a negative margin of 15.4.

The 2011 team is averaging 62.6 point per game, and allowing 81.1 points per game, for a negative margin of 18.5.

Keep in mind that this year includes a five-point victory over Virginia, and a one-point loss against Miami. The 1986 team experienced a one-point loss to N.C. State and a three-point loss to Clemson, never once claiming a conference win.

On paper, the 1986 and 2011 teams look quite bad given their points per game margins and overall season records.

In order to justify such poor records, we need to look into the ACC for each year to better understand the

ACC victory so far in this season current RPI out of 345 teams

By Dan McLaughlin and Nick Saponara Contributing writers

The duo was in danger of losing their spot in the doubles lineup, but Zinn was happy with their progress over the previous week.

Carleton and senior Iain Atkinson narrowly missed a signature win over the 14thranked duo in the nation, Skupski and Sebastian Carlsson. Wake’s top team fell 9-8 in a tiebreaker.

“It honestly makes me really angry because I was serving for the match and up (6-5),” Carleton said.

“We know we can play with these guys. It’s not about playing with them it’s about actually winning.”

The Deacs won just enough matches to seal the deal, starting with Kreyman and Atkinson who blew their opponents off the court at third and fourth singles, respectively. Atkinson defeated

The NBA’s current Collective Bargaining Agreement situation is no more precarious than its much maligned and documented brother in the NFL. Although the issues are quite different, a lockout next fall is just as likely on the hardwood as it is on the gridiron, and that’s very, very likely.

Since the NBA season is still trudging along, there hasn’t been as much talk about their impending labor negotiations.

Interestingly, the Player’s Association and the league haven’t talked about it much either. In January 2010, the league made an offer that was scoffed at by the players. The players made a similarly ludicrous offer by the owner’s standards nine months later, and that’s where we stand. NBA players and owners, despite their huge bank accounts and superhuman athletic abilities, behave just like you and me: they make decisions based on money and the laws of economics.

The first big issue at hand is player salaries. NBA Commissioner David Stern said the league lost $380 million last year alone, and they are looking to cut about $800 million in player salaries annually.

Forbes estimated that 12 NBA teams lost money operating last season.

The players obviously don’t want a reduction in their wages; however, high it may currently be. They have a good point as well, since all the value added to the league comes from the players.

No fan would buy tickets, jerseys or concessions if there were no players.

Hence, the players, in total, are looking to keep their share of earnings at its current level of 57 percent.

See M.Tennis, Page B4

See Press Box, Page B2

years since the Deacs have lost 20 games

losses this season of 20 points or more strength of schedule for the Deacs

{ DEAC OF THE WEEK }

{ SPORTS WORDS } “For the game’s health as a whole, when we’re talking about $30 million players, I think it’s asinine.”

-Chicago White Sox General Manager Ken Williams on Albert Pujols’ potential contract

See Hoops Failures, Page B9

future of NFL, NBA in doubt

Men’s Basketball

Sophomore Tripper Carleton of the men’s tennis team clinched a big match against LSU. Carleton upset No. 88 Neal Skupski 7-5, 6-4 in the No. 1 singles spot as the Deacs went on to win the match 4-3.

Carleton looks to improve upon his 14-11 overall singles record from last season.

Carleton He is currently 10-7 in singles matches this season. Carleton helped Wake Forest improve to 3-3 on the year. The Deacs will face No. 2 Tennessee Feb. 27.

team’s record. After looking at both years, it becomes clear that this year’s team faced a much easier conference schedule than the 1986 team did.

In 1986, the ACC had five teams ranked in the Top 20 to start the year.

Six teams made it to the NCAA Tournament and four made the Sweet Sixteen, including Duke who won the Championship Game.

This year, the ACC has three teams that are projected to make the tournament and another four teams on the bubble.

On that fact alone, the weaker conference is weaker this year than 1986 and the Deacs have a larger margin of defeat.

This indicates that this year’s team is worse than the 1986 team, even with their single conference win.

When Florida State joined the Atlantic Coast Conference in 1992, the basketball schedule increased to the current model of 16 conference games. On five different occasions

Carleton, Deacs sneak past Tigers 4-3 CBA talks put

{ BY THE NUMBERS }

1 248 26 8 100

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Graphic by Josh Strickland /Old Gold & Black

{ UPCOMING EVENTS }

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Holly Hinshelwood/Old Gold & Black

Sophomore Zach Leslie winds up for a forehand in his doubles match against LSU. Leslie and junior David Hopkins picked up a point at third doubles with an 8-5 win.

By Gary Pasqualicchio | Sports editor Looking for a signature win to jump-start their season, the Wake Forest men’s tennis team battled past LSU 4-3 at the Indoor Tennis Center Feb. 20.

The Deacs fell by the same score in a heartbreaker at LSU last season, dropping three three-set matches, each of which would have been the deciding point.

One of those losses belonged to sophomore Tripper Carleton, who made up for it this time around with the clinching win at No. 1 singles.

Carleton, ranked 123rd in the nation, defeated No. 88 Neal Supski 7-5, 6-4 in one of the most heated matches of the day.

“You’ve got the SEC and the ACC and those guys have been in a million wars over the years,” Head Coach Jeff Zinn said. “We

have to be fired up to play our best. The intensity level’s got to be high and I think it was.”

Carleton, a catalyst for the emotional tone of the match, had a bit of revenge on the mind after his disappointment last season.

“On our part we felt we gave it away last year,” Carleton said.

“This was a big match, they’re ranked ahead of us and we’ve had a couple tough losses already this season. We really needed to beat a good team, an NCAA caliber team. This was a huge win.”

The Deacs got things off to a good start in doubles, winning two out of three matches to claim the point and a 1-0 lead. Sophomore Danny Kreyman teamed with senior Jonathan Wolff to win 8-3 at second doubles and junior David Hopkins and sophomore Zach Leslie clinched the point with an 8-5 win at the No. 3 spot.

B2 Thursday, February 24, 2011

Old Gold & Black Sports

Travis McKie

By Aaron Colston | Contributing writer Meet an ACC Freshmen of the Year candidate who doubles as one of the most promising Deacons Wake Forest has had in recent years. Travis McKie has received substantial national recognition, being ranked by ESPN as the No. 12 small forward and the No. 60 overall prospect playing college basketball.

Standing at 6-foot-7 and 205 pounds, this freshman from Richmond, Va., has already made his mark at Wake Forest.

Not only does McKie start at small forward, but he is the only freshman ranked in the ACC Top 20 for both scoring and rebounding. McKie is already a big threat, and given time to develop, he will have the opportunity to improve his game.

He has the potential to join the many great players in Wake Forest history.

He selected Wake Forest over offers from numerous institutions like Georgia Tech and Virginia, primarily because of the university’s commitment to education. Not only does McKie thrive on the court, but he also takes education very seriously.

Now, let’s take a deeper look at this dynamic freshman who continuously strengthens the name of Wake Forest.

When did you fall in love with basketball?

When I was two-years-old playing in the living room with the Little Tikes Basketball Goal. I have been in love with the game ever since.

Do you feel a lot of pressure being a starting freshman in the ACC? How do you deal with that?

It’s some pressure, but I’m used to it now. I’ve been doing it since the beginning of the year, and I adjust quickly.

Practicing and experience helped me overcome it but, at the end of the day, basketball is basketball.

Why did you choose the number 30?

In high school I was number 15 but that number was retired by Simpson “Skip” Brown before I got here. My second and third choices were also taken. So I was kind of forced into that number. But, 15 times two is 30 so we can also look at it in that way.

Who is your biggest inspiration?

My mother Renee Smith; she has never missed a single one of my games. The only game she has missed was when she had my little sister. She is my constant support system.

What has been your favorite class at the university thus far?

Contemporary Moral Problems with Professor Earl Crow has been my favorite class so far. We have very interesting conversations that always make class fun.

What song gets you hyped before a game?

“Beat Knockin’” by Vado – “Let’s Go Slime, it’s show time.”

What’s the biggest difference between high school and college ball?

The main difference is the attention to detail. Everything has to be just right for the entire 40 minutes.

You can’t cut corners in the ACC basketball like we did in high school.

If you could pick any four players, past included, to play alongside you, who would they be and which one is your favorite?

If I was playing the “three” I would have Penny Hardaway playing point guard. I would put Michael Jordan as shooting guard. Then I would have Scottie Pippen playing power forward and have LeBron James at center. We are all such versatile players that we can play any position honestly.

Out of those four I would have to say MJ is by far my favorite; I mean he is the greatest player of all time.

What NBA team’s jersey do you like the most?

I like the Orlando Magic pinstripe jerseys. They are hot.

What do you feel like your role is on the team?

My role primarily on the team is playing the four; I have to box big guys out and make the hustle plays. I have to do the dirty work for the team.

Which shoes do you like to play in the most?

Nike Hyperdunks are my favorite. Next year though I’m going to play in all retro-Jordan’s. I’m just keeping it simple this year.

If you could give a PSA to Wake Forest right now, what would it say?

I appreciate everyone coming to the games. Keep believing in us and we will get it together. Go Deacs!

Personal Profile Birthdate: 10/23/1992 Year: Freshman Hometown: Richmond Va. Height: 6’ 7” Awards and Titles: Three-time ACC Rookie of the Week, 2010 McDonald’s All-America nominee, 2010 Virginia Central Region Player of the Year John Turner/Old Gold & Black Graphic by Matt Poppe/Old Gold & Black

Press Box:Negotiations revolve solely around money Continued from Page B1

The owners are looking to move that number to about 41 percent.

Going hand in hand with the actual salaries themselves is the salary cap.

The league currently operates under a soft cap, which allows teams to exceed the cap for various exceptions, which are more complicated than tax law.

The owners are looking to impose a hard cap, like the NFL, where salaries can’t exceed a certain number no matter what. Obviously, the players are strongly opposed to this, and many observers have said this is the biggest barrier to negotiations.

Next is the issue of salary rollbacks.

The owners have discussed changing the terms of existing contracts, something the NHL did after their lockout. The players are obviously opposed to this as well, since those contracts are already signed and agreed upon. The likely format of the rollbacks would be, for

example, a 25 percent decrease for each player’s annual salary.

The NBA is also the only league with unconditionally guaranteed contracts.

Once the contract is signed, the team pays that player that amount, regardless of performance or injury. This allows players like Brandon Roy to collect his $80 million over five years, despite the fact his knees no longer function. As you might expect, the players don’t want to give this up either.

Finally, there is the possibility of contraction. The league would be able to buy teams and eliminate them, thus condensing the talent and putting an even better product on the floor, as well as a more financially responsible one. However, the logistics of this are notably difficult, and players would likely oppose the contraction of jobs.

As is evident by the main arguments of the NBA collective bargaining agreement, the two sides are light years away. There will likely be very unpleasant talks between the two

sides during the offseason. Given the arguments, the players would gladly agree to extend the current agreement, whereas the owners are looking to overthrow the system. Hopefully the negotiations are fun to watch, because there very well may not be any basketball next winter.

Last week, the NFL and the NFL Players Union (NFLPA) agreed to meet with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service in an effort to resume talks regarding the current Collective Bargaining Agreement, which is set to expire March 3.

The previous negotiations between the league and the players ended two weeks ago with both sides canceling a scheduled meeting because their terms were too far apart.

The NFLPA, led by former U.S. Attorney DeMaurice Smith, has been adamant that they do not want the status quo to change and are in favor of playing under the CBA in its current state.

The league and the owners, led by Commissioner Goodell, favor multiple changes to the CBA because they are of the opinion that the current agreement heavily favors the players.

Proposed changes would include: an 18-game schedule with only two preseason games, a rookie salary cap, and benefits for retired players.

These suggestions seem quite reasonable on paper; however, from the player’s standpoint this would be a considerable downgrade from the current agreement.

Rookies would not be able sign outrageous $50 million contracts, unrestricted free-agency would be pushed back from four years to six years, and most importantly the players would no longer be entitled to 60 percent of their teams’ available revenues. In good years and bad years the teams must spend 60 percent of their revenue on players’ salaries.

In my opinion, the NFL should continue to use a 16-game schedule

because an 18-game season lessens the significance of each game. However, a longer season does put more money in owners’ pockets; but when you’re charging $75 for nose-bleed seats, do you really need more money?

Let’s face it: if you’re the owner of an NFL team, you are already a millionaire. You don’t need more money.

The NFL should have a rookie salary cap, because it would stop wasteful spending on unproven players and allocate more money for veterans.

The league should also take some of the money from their record-breaking revenues and invest it in health care for retired players, as many players face serious medical complications in their later years.

If an agreement can’t be reached, both sides will surely lose what they value most – money.

There will be no free-agency, there will be no sponsorships, and there will be no fans in the seats.

Deac Notes Three student-athletes awarded post-grad awards

Tim Duncan and Chris Paul team up to help the West beat the East

Construction on new tennis facility progresses steadily

On Feb. 18, three Demon Deacon studentathletes received ACC post-graduate scholarships. Senior Iain Atkinson of the men’s tennis team, senior Casey Luckhurst of the women’s soccer team and senior Kristen White of the volleyball team were the three recipients of the awards. They each won the Weaver-James-Corrigan Award, while Atkinson was one of only three ACC members to win the Thacker Award.

The Thacker Award is given to someone who demonstrates outstanding performances in both academics and athletics; the Weaver-JamesCorrigan Award is presented to three studentathletes from each ACC school.

Former Deacon basketball players Tim Duncan and Chris Paul both started for NBA West All-Stars Feb. 20 in Los Angeles, as the West defeated the East 148-143.

Duncan was chosen to start the game by NBA Commisioner David Stern. Rockets center Yao Ming could not play due to injury, even though he had been voted in as the starter by the fans.

Duncan is averaging a career-low 13.6 points a game; however, his San Antonio Spurs currently hold the best record in the league.

Duncan had two points and three rebounds in 12 minutes played; Paul scored 10 points to go along with seven assists and five steals in 29 minutes.

After just over a week of construction, the parking lot next to BB&T Field has been transformed into huge piles of dirt.

The hope is that construction of the new tennis facility will be completed by the end of July, as the Winston-Salem Open will be played there Aug. 21 of this year.

This week, underground pipes and fiber-optic lines were installed after the asphalt from what used to be the Green Lot was taken away. The old drainage system will be replaced with new pipes.

The facility will have 10 to 12 outdoor courts.

Pictures of the construction can be viewed at wakeforestsports.com.

Sports Old Gold & Black

Thursday, February 24, 2011 B3

10th inning base on balls gives Diamond Deacs a true “walk off ” win

By Matt Hayes | Staff writer

Wake Forest WCU

2 1

The Wake Forest baseball team opened its season with a three-game series at No. 15 Louisiana State, followed by the season’s home opener against the Catamounts of Western Carolina.

The series against LSU saw the Deacs traveling to Baton Rouge to play in front of a hostile LSU crowd at Alex Box Stadium.

The Demon Deacons dropped each game of the series, opening the season with a 15-4 defeat, then dropping a 4-3 nail-biter and finishing with a 9-1 loss.

Even though it was a tough opening to the season, the Diamond Deacs were able to bounce back with a 2-1 victory in their home opener at Wake Forest Baseball Park.

Even though the Deacs did not come away with a win against the Tigers on their road trip, they were able to gain valuable experience by playing in front of raucous crowds in the Louisiana Bayou.

On opening night, Wake Forest played in front of a crowd of over 10,000 LSU fans. Head Coach Tom Walter named junior Austin Stadler the starter, but the Tiger offense was overwhelming, as Stadler gave up 13 runs on 11 hits in only three innings.

Sophomore Matt Conway did his best to lead the Deacs back, but his two hits and three RBI were too little too late, as Wake Forest fell 15-4.

The Demon Deacons bounced back in game two of the weekend series, jumping out to a 2-0 lead in the second inning. The pitching was much improved, as sophomore Tim Cooney put in a strong performance as the

starter, giving up only three runs in just over six innings of work.

Freshmen Charlie Morgan and James Harris each hit their first collegiate home runs, but Morgan’s solo shot to lead off the ninth left the Deacs one run short, as they dropped their second game of the season 4-3.

Wake Forest closed their road trip Feb. 20, hoping for a win to gain momentum going into their 13 home game series.

However, after allowing five runs in the third inning, the offense was unable to come back and ended up losing 9-1.

One of the few bright spots of the day came when sophomore Mark Rhine extended his hitting streak to 12 games, dating back to last season.

Looking back on the series, the players see some positives that they can take away despite being swept. “After experiencing the crowds at LSU, I know we won’t be fazed by anything the rest of the year,” sophomore Pat Blair said. “We’re going into every game with nothing but confidence.”

And the confidence showed in the home opener Feb. 22 against Western Carolina. The acknowledging of the herioc efforts of Tom Walter coupled with free admission and pizza drew a large crowd to Wake Forest Baseball Park, as the stands were filled with residents of Winston-Salem, students and student-athletes geared up to see the Demon Deacons take on the Catamounts.

The Deacs took notice and were encouraged by the energy of the fans.

“It was a great feeling and the crowd was awesome. It really got the team up for the game,” Blair said.

The crowd’s support seemed to bolster the Deacons’ defense and put some zip behind the pitches of junior Zach White. The lefty put in the strongest performance by a Wake

Spencer Cook/Old Gold & Black

Freshman right-handed pitcher Nate Jones hurls a fastball toward the mound in the Deacs’ 2-1 victory over Western Carolina. Jones induces a crucial double play in the sixth inning.

Forest pitcher this season, pitching into the sixth inning, allowing only one run and striking out six Western Carolina batters.

However, when White was taken out of the game, Wake Forest was down 1-0 with runners on first and second base.

Freshman Nate Jones came in as the reliever and induced a double play to end the Western Carolina threat.

The pitcher’s duel continued into the ninth inning, with Jones, freshman John McCleod, and junior Michael Dimock combining to pitch 4.2 innings of scoreless relief.

With Wake Forest still down 1-0, it looked like the Deacs would not earn the victory. “We need a better approach at the plate,” Walter said.

“We’re taking long swings, so getting

back to basics and shortening our swings will help.”

The long swing was evident as Blair stepped to the plate with two outs in the bottom of the ninth inning. Blair lofted a high fly ball to center field, that Western Carolina center fielder Phillip Treadway misjudged in the wind, committing an error that resulted in the Deacs scoring the tying run.

“I had no doubt we’d come back for the win” Walter said.

With the 1-1 tie, the game went into extra innings. The Catamounts were sat down in order in their half of the 10th, while the Deacs took advantage of the Catamount’s mistakes, loading the bases on a single and two errors.

Blair came up to bat, hoping to finish the game that he tied an inning earlier.

The Catamount pitcher could not

handle the pressure, and Blair ended up walking. The winning run crossed the plate and Wake Forest gained their first victory of the season in their home opener.

“While it’s not the way I would’ve liked it to end, it’s good to have one in the win column,” Blair said.

“It’s good to get a win,” Walter said.

“We pitched extremely well and our bats will come around.”

Players and fans were happy to see the coach in his usual post down the third base line after he gave his kidney to freshman Kevin Jordan who was suffering from a rare kidney disease.

While he was happy to be back on the field winning games, he reminded everyone that to him, “the best part [of the day] is hearing Kevin Jordan is feeling well.”

Men’s basketball woes continue as Deacs trounced by Florida State and Virginia Tech

By Lauren Howell | Staff writer

Virginia Tech 76 Wake Forest 62

John Turner/Old Gold & Black

Freshman guard Tony Chennault drives for an uncontested layup in the Feb. 22 loss.

Wake Forest Head Coach Jeff Bzdelik utilized some teachable moments this week as his young squad chalked up two more ACC losses against Florida State Feb. 19 and Virginia Tech Feb. 22.

Lesson one was that rookies can and must be leaders. Freshman Travis McKie stood out with game-high scores of 20 and 22 points, tying a career-best mark that he set earlier this year at Elon.

The 6-foot-7 forward grabbed eight rebounds against FSU and nine against Virginia Tech, leading the Deacs for the 19th time this season.

The freshman has now reached double-figure scoring totals in 21 of 28 games so far.“I’m always impressed with Travis’s consistency and work ethic to get better,” Bzdelik said.

Bzdelik has noted that the freshman is constantly studying game films and asking questions.

“He’s an intelligent young man striving to get better on a daily basis,” Bzdelik said.

The Deacs played an exciting first half against FSU, out-scoring the Seminoles 33-31 and sinking 14 of 15 free throws.

Things were looking up for a team that is desperately trying to prove that it can compete in the ACC after going 1-12 so far this season.

“At halftime, we all felt like we could play with them,” McKie said.

“We just have to keep playing hard in the second half.

We got lackadaisical, and in this conference every possession counts.”

Lesson two was that the team needs everybody.

FSU was able to capitalize on the final result was an 84-66 loss Wake Forest’s faltering defensive for the Deacs. Freshmen J.T. effort early on in the second half, Terrell and sophomore Ari Stewart establishing a permanent lead with each contributed 12 points for a 15-4 run that unraveled after Wake Forest with Stewart grabbing only three minutes on the clock. five rebounds off the bench.

“This game is about will, and The Feb. 22 game was a similar passion and energy,” Bzdelik said. story. Wake Forest proved they “We need everybody; we can’t were a force to be reckoned with have people missing in action.” by getting the ball inside from the “To play two good halves, we’ve first whistle, drawing four fouls got to stick together,” freshman in the first three minutes and guard Tony Chennault said. outscoring Virginia Tech 30-18 in Chennault scored 12 points and the paint overall. grabbed four rebounds against In the first half, the teams FSU. “We can’t just have three tied with 18 rebounds, but the guys out there.”

Deacs, who went zero for nine Wake Forest was able to match in three-pointers, couldn’t match its own first half score, but gave up the Hokies’ 71 percent shooting 28 consecutive points from under accuracy from behind the arc. the basket and at Nor did the foul line. they have an “We didn’t answer when “Nothing happens overnight. guard the Virginia ball very well, Tech took Sometimes you’ve got to fight and that’s just off on a your nightmares to reach our p o s i t i o n i n g ,” 15-5 run dreams.”

Bzdelik said. with 5:09 Tony Chennault “You can tell remaining in a team that’s the first half, Freshman guard defending well taking the just by closing score from a your eyes and hopeful 23listening to the squeaks. We were 20 to a significant lead that the lunging, and we weren’t on the Deacs never recovered. high shoulder.”

“I said to them before the While the Deacs and the game, Virginia Tech’s tallest Seminoles both gave up close to player is 6-foot-8; it comes down the same amount of turnovers, to blocking people off, driving FSU was able to produce 22 points people back, and pursuing the off of 15 Wake Forest turnovers. basketball,” Bzdelik said.

FSU utilized their speed by “We allowed them 16 points scoring 15 fast break points, 10 of off the offense when we did get which were in the second half. stopped. We had some decent “Just two totally different halves, looks, missed some shots, but we plain and simple,” Bzdelik said. have to be able to get stops — “What happened between the that’s where you win games.” first half and the second half is a Defensively, the Deacs were mystery to me, to be quite frank. able to hold the pressure to the Did we exhale? We sure looked like perimeter for much of the game, it, and we came out very lethargic but the Hokies compensated by for whatever reason.” going 60 percent overall from the After a second period that was full field and 67 percent from behind of easy buckets for the Seminoles, the arc while Wake Forest was

held at 42 percent from the field and sunk only 17 percent of threepoint attempts, falling 76-62.

Four Virginia Tech players reached double-digit scores, with Jeff Allen, Malcolm Delaney and Jarell Eddie each contributing 17 points, while Wake Forest had to lean more heavily on McKie’s 22 points and sophomore guard Gary Clark’s 13 points.The third lesson was that successful people are only momentarily discouraged.

“We’re all learning, and it’s going to pay off,” said McKie. “We just have to keep working hard and fighting.”

Although the week brought two more losses at home for the Deacs, the improved level of competition they brought to the court, especially in the first halves of each game, should not be overlooked.

Virginia Tech handed Wake Forest a 95-64 defeat Jan. 15 in Blacksburg, and FSU took an 8561 victory over the Deacs Feb. 1.

“In practices leading up to the game this time, we structured our offensive sets around FSU’s weaknesses, which helped in the first half,” Chennault said, who scored four points against Virginia Tech.

“We are a better team now,” Bzdelik states.“We are maturing off the court.

It will help us in the future as we create the culture that we want here, and it will be reflected in the play. People may not see the positive growth yet, but that’s because they don’t see behind the curtain.”

“Nothing happens overnight,” Chennault said.

“Sometimes you’ve gotta fight your nightmares to reach your dreams.”

Wake Forest will wrap up the month of February by playing at Clemson at 4p.m. Feb. 26. It will be the Deacons’ first meeting with the LSU Tigers this season.

B4 Thursday, February 24, 2011

Old Gold & Black Sports

Deacs have another strong performance in Blacksburg

By Maggie Cancelosi | Staff writer

Consider Blacksburg, Va., the second home of the Demon Deacons, because the track team has traveled to Virginia Tech four times during the last six weeks of the indoor season. In their most recent meet, the Virginia Tech Challenge Feb 19 and Feb 20, Wake Forest track and field delivered strong performances in their last opportunity before the ACC Championships. The Deacons raced against ACC rivals like Duke and N.C. State, as well as other strong programs like JMU and William & Mary.

Friday night kicked off with the women’s long jump and one-mile-run, but Wake Forest’s coaching staff chose to enter athletes in only two events – the 60-meter dash and the 200-meter dash. In the preliminaries of the 60-meter dash, freshman Mytoia Gathings took sixth place at 7.74 seconds, while her teammate, sophomore Anneve Waith, finished at 8.14 seconds.

Selected as one of the top eight contestants in the preliminaries, Gathings raced in 60-meter dash finals and snagged sixth place once again, finishing faster at 7.73 seconds. The freshman currently holds the school record in the event with her time of 7.72 seconds at last weekend’s Liberty Quad Meet.

In the 200-meter dash, both Gathings and sophmore Anneve Waithe represented the Deacs.

In her season-best time of 24.89, Gathings took second place behind VCU’s Dionna Hayes who completed the event in 24.80 seconds. Waithe finished in 33rd place with a personal best time of 27.14 seconds.

On Saturday morning, Wake Forest competed in both the 800-meter run as well as the triple jump. In the 800-meter run, senior Kim Vos raced for the first time this season and took 11th place with a time of 2:14.81. Freshman Caitlin Hartnett, who has finished three times in the top-

Photo courtesy of the Collegiate Times

Junior Scott McCullough leaps over a hurdle in the 60-meters. The Demon Deacons’ next appearance will be Feb. 26 at the ACC Indoor Championships.

15 this season, claimed 14th place with a time of 2:16.79. In the triple jump, junior Erin Brooks confidently represented the Demon Deacons with her quick footwork and speed. Brooks finished in 10th after hitting a mark of 37-11.25.

“The transition from the high school to the D-1 level is definitely a lot more intense. It’s yearround, which is something that I’ve never been used to before, because I’m used to only having to train for three months,” Harnett said.

“It’s a lot more competitive with a lot more pressure, but there are more opportunities to

excel and compete as an athlete,” Hartnett said.

“I’m not sure if I will be selected to compete for the ACCs, but if I am, I just want to help the team out and drop my time by a couple of seconds. As inspiration for the season, I’ve used my favorite quote ‘Failure is an opportunity in disguise,’ Harnett said.

For the men on Friday night, the Deacons competed in the 60-meter dash, the one-mile run, the long jump and the pole vault.

Sophomore Josh Harris, who is also a running back on the football team, placed first in the

preliminary round of the 60-meter dash with an impressive time of 6.82 seconds. Harris made his collegiate track debut in the Liberty Quad Meet and stole the first place spot with a time of 6.93 seconds.

If he continues his momentum, Harris could quite possibly break the school record of 6.77 seconds set in 2008 by Kevin Marion.

In the final heat of the event, Harris took third place with a repeated time of 6.82 seconds, while R.J. Anderson of Concord took first at 6.80 seconds.

In the one-mile run, sophomores Tom Finneran and Jake Graham both finished in the top 30 with times of 4:17.20 and 4:22.12, respectively.

In the long jump, another cross-athlete, Brandon Terry, who is also a wide receiver on the football team, recorded a mark of 21-11. In his second collegiate performance, Terry took 11th place overall.

In the pole vault, sophomore Trey Blanton was the sole Deacon to compete and took first place with a mark significantly ahead of his competition at 4.85 meters. Blanton’s performance was his personal best, as well as fifth straight top 10 finish of the season.

While the Deacons didn’t compete in the high jump in the Virginia Tech Challenge, it is still one of Wake’s strong events.

For the ACC Championships next weekend, junior Aaron Larue expressed his confidence in his performance. “I just want to get a personal best and jump well. I’ve set two PRs this season, and I think only one other teammate will be competing in the event with me,” Larue said.

The Deacons will compete in the ACC Indoor Championships back in Blacksburg, Va., Feb. 24 through Feb. 26.

Last year, the men’s team placed 10th out of 12 teams with a total of 21 points, while the women placed 11th out of 12 teams with 32 points.

Women’s basketball falls victim to two top-ranked ACC opponents

By John Turner | Photo editor

Miami Wake Forest

Spencer Cook/Old Gold & Black

Junior guard Brooke Thomas puts up a jump shot in the Deacs’ 82-79 loss to Florida State.

74 46

With 57 seconds remaining, Wake Forest sophomore Sandra Garcia made a layup to cut Florida State’s lead down to two points, providing hope for an upset against the No. 12 Seminoles Feb. 17.

However, it was the Seminoles who pulled out a close three-point win against the Demon Deacons, winning 82-79.

The Deacs then traveled to Coral Gables Feb. 21 to face the No. 16 Miami Hurricanes, and were handed a 74-46 loss as four Hurricanes scored in double figures.

Beginning early with a 7-0 run, Wake Forest came out strong, stressing fast-break plays to penalize Florida State through tough defense. This aggressive defense, however, led Wake Forest to commit 22 team fouls, providing Florida State a significant edge in points off free throws.

Florida State made 26 out of 30 free throws, whereas Wake Forest only managed nine out of 12.

Despite Wake Forest’s strong start, Florida State revved up its defense, causing Wake Forest to commit costly turnovers.

These turnovers played a significant role in a big Wake Forest offensive drought, going scoreless for nine minutes of play in the first half. During this nine-

minute period, Florida State went on a 20-2 run.

Wake Forest Head Coach Mike Petersen drew attention to the importance of that part of the extended drought.

“I thought we played 34 really good minutes, but I thought we played six bad minutes, and if you play six bad minutes against No. 12, it will probably cost you the game,” Petersen said.

Florida State held a large rebounding advantage, outrebounding Wake Forest 40-19.

Petersen noted this rebounding margin, and gave Florida State credit for their rebounding abilities.

“They’re 12 in the country for a reason. One of the reasons they’re good is because they rebound the ball.”

Petersen emphasized the importance of each individual rebound. “It’s a three-point game, so every single (rebound) sticks out like a sore thumb,” he said.

The rebounding star of the game was Florida State’s Cierra Bravard. Bravard contributed 21 points, with a staggering 15 rebounds. Wake Forest’s opposing center, Garcia, did not pull down a single rebound throughout the entire contest.

Petersen pointed out the issue this causes in a game against a highly ranked Seminole team.

“It’s a problem, no question.

Your five cannot play that many minutes without having a rebound,” Petersen said.

Going into halftime, the Demon Deacons only trailed the

Seminoles by eight points, despite the Florida State 20-2 run earlier in the half.

At the half, both teams were shooting the ball near the same percentages.

These similar statistics were not matched in the second half, however, as Florida State finished the game shooting free throws and shots behind the arc with 10 percent advantages.

Senior Brittany Waters made two clutch plays down the stretch, scoring four points in 26 seconds.

Waters made a two-point jumper, followed by a spin-around layup after a defensive rebound.

This series of plays cut the Seminoles lead to five.

In the end, Florida State’s superior advantage off free throws and rebounding helped them pull out a close three-point victory.

The rebounding margin was significantly closer in the game against Miami, as the Hurricanes out-rebounded Wake Forest 5048. Garcia improved her personal rebounding from the prior game, as she pulled down 11 rebounds against Miami.

Wake Forest shot a very low field goal percentage, ending 22 percent from the field. Four Miami players combined for 56 points, 10 points higher than the total Wake Forest score. The only Wake Forest player to score in double figures was Chelsea Douglas, scoring 12 points in 22 minutes.

“We focused on doing something different,” Douglas said. When asked about the rebounding improvement between the two

games, the team “looked at film (and did) other things to help out the team,” she said.

Miami forced Wake Forest to commit 11 turnovers, resulting in a 15-3 advantage in fast-break points.

Wake Forest’s largest lead of the game was three points, only 30 seconds into the game. Miami’s largest lead was 31 points, entering halftime with an 18point lead.

Coming out of the half, the Deacons forced six Miami turnovers in nine minutes, but only cut Miami’s lead from 18 points to 14.

“We were better focused coming out (of halftime) and able to get stops,” Johnson said on forcing turnovers.

Sophomore Patrice Johnson came off the bench to contribute six points and four rebounds.

Wake Forest’s bench out-scored Miami’s bench 29-16.

After the game against Miami, the Hurricanes moved to a record of 24-3 overall (10-2 in the ACC), whereas Wake Forest dropped to 12-16 overall (3-9 in the ACC).

The Deacons only have two more regular season games, split between home and away.

Next up, the Deacons will face Clemson on the road Feb. 24.

Clemson has an 8-7 home record, while Wake Forest is 1-9 on the road. Both teams have struggled this season, as Clemson now stands at a 10-17 overall record (3-9 in the ACC).

Tip-off is set for 4 p.m. at the Littlejohn Coliseum.

M.Tennis: Demon Deacons prepare for No. 2 Tennessee Continued from Page B1

Mark Bowtell 6-3, 6-1 and Kreyman took down Carlsson 6-1, 6-3, giving the Deacs a 3-0 lead.

“I was very impressed with Danny Kreyman and Iain Atkinson,” Zinn said.

“They came out firing and played very well. We jumped out pretty quick and had the 3-0 lead (but) you know LSU is going to Atkinson battle back.”

And battle back the Bayou Bengals did. Sophomore Conner Sherwood, a Greensboro native, fell 7-5, 6-4 in front of several of his friends and family.

The redshirt transfer from Cornell has played sparingly in his Wake Forest career but is in the running to solidify the sixth

spot of Zinn’s singles lineup. the second set to level the match With Wolff losing both his match at a set apiece. However, the third and his cool down 7-5, 3-0, and set was replaced with a 10-point freshman Adam Lee in a third tiebreaker with the outcome of set battle, Carleton saw the the dual meet decided. Wolff fell opportunity to play hero for the behind early and couldn’t recover, Deacs. losing the breaker 10-7.

The Jenkintown, Pa. native Meanwhile, Lee blew a 4-2 lead seized the moment, and the in his final set falling 6-4, 2-6, match, expelling last season’s LSU 5-7. demons.

Despite the “I think this final score was the first of 4-3, Zinn match I’ve “We jumped out pretty quick and felt good ever clinched,” had the 3-0 lead (but) you know about Wolff’s Carleton said. chances at LSU is going to battle back.”

“It was really winning a Jeff Zinn good playing third set if Men’s tennis Head Coach this guy. I it became played (him) necessary. last year at LSU “We won and was up 6-1, 5-2 and had all three matches in straight sets so these match points and lost. That I feel good about that. If it was was definitely always in the back going to three (sets), I feel good of my mind. I really wanted to about Jon winning his match. beat this guy.”

Overall maybe it wasn’t quite as While Carleton relieved the close as the final score indicated.” pressure from the shoulders Zinn praised Carleton, of Wolff at second singles, the indicating that he would get better senior co-captain was mounting as he gets more match experience a comeback, breaking back late in after missing time with an illness.

“It was good Tripper came up with one. He’s starting to get his feet under him and start feeling better. Today was a start.”

Things don’t get any easier for Wake Forest as they will travel to Knoxville to play Tennessee Feb. 27.

The Volunteers are currently ranked second in the nation and are the runners-up of the ITA National Team Indoor title.

Despite boasting a singles lineup with three Top 40 players, Tennessee barely snuck past the Deacs last season in WinstonSalem, winning 4-3 with two tough three-setters.

Carleton was one of the threeset losers, falling to then-No. 2 John-Patrick Smith 3-6, 7-5, 3-6.

Carleton may not get a chance at revenge, however, because top-ranked Rhyne Williams is in the Vols lineup. Williams is the ITA National Indoor singles champion.

“I’m gonna throw everything at (Williams). I really want to beat that guy. I’m coming out firing for that match,” Carleton said.

Holly Hinshelwood/Old Gold & Black

Senior Jonathan Wolff fires a backhand return in his doubles win versus LSU Feb. 20.

L IFE

Beaches, hot bodies and no class? Sounds like spring break 2011. Page B7.

INSIDE: WHEREFORE ART THOU GNOMEO? The classic Shakespeare story — right in your own backyard.

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T H U R S DAY , F E B R UA RY 2 4 , 2 0 1 1 PA G E

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O N L I N E A T : w w w. o l d g o l d a n d b l a c k . c o m E D I T O R : R e n e e S l a w s k y, s l a w r b 9 @ w f u . e d u

AND THE

OSCAR

GOES TO...

Who will be taking home little gold men on awards night?

By Kara Peruccio | Senior writer Over the past five years, the Academy Awards have been largely predictable and this year appear to be no different. Up until the Directors Guild Awards, presented Jan. 29, numerous Oscar bloggers prophesied victory for The Social Network. In recent weeks, however, The King’s Speech, seems to have outdueled the Facebook saga. This year’s Academy Awards is truly fair game in many of the categories. 2010 was a strong year in film and will be a night to remember. I share my predictions for who will win — and who should win — as well as a commentary on other deserving nominees. It has been an exciting Oscar season and Feb. 27 will be the culmination of a year filled with impressive and electrifying movie-making.

Best Supporting Actress Amy Adams – The Fighter Helena Bonham Carter – The King’s Speech Melissa Leo – The Fighter Hailee Steinfeld – True Grit Jackie Weaver – Animal Kingdom If you asked me after the Golden Globes, I would have told you the Best Supporting Actress race was over. Melissa Leo as the tough matriarch of boxing’s Ekland Family would take the stage victorious in February. Now it seems Leo has blown her chance at striking Oscar gold after releasing a series of bizarre and voter-alienating “Consider” advertisements. Helena Bonham Carter was impressive as the Queen Mother in The King’s Speech and delivered a truly restrained performance when compared to her normally crazy characters. As the stubborn Mattie Ross, Hailee Steinfeld displayed maturity beyond her years and held her own with Jeff Bridges and Matt Damon in the exquisite True Grit. Although Steinfeld really should be up for Best Actress,

True Grit’s producers wisely campaigned for her in a far easier category to win. I believe the envelope will have her name in it on Sunday night.

Should win: Hailee Steinfeld Will win: Hailee Steinfeld

Best Supporting Actor Christian Bale – The Fighter John Hawkes – Winter’s Bone Jeremy Renner – The Town Mark Ruffalo – The Kids Are All Right Geoffrey Rush – The King’s Speech Best Supporting Actor boasts perhaps the strongest slate of nominees, with many deserving performances excluded from this year’s top five. It also is among the two locks for the major categories. Christian Bale will win on Sunday for his turn as the crack cocaine addicted former boxer Dicky Eklund in The Fighter. John Hawkes’ portrayal of Teardrop in the Ozark drama was impressive in Winter’s Bone. As Ree’s meth-addicted uncle, Hawkes is intimidating and volatile yet deeply concerned about his niece’s meddling in her father’s disappearance. However, if I was voting for Best Supporting Actor, Oscar gold goes to Geoffrey Rush. He was phenomenal as Lionel Logue in The King’s Speech and his camaraderie with Colin Firth’s George VI only adds to the film’s charm.

Should win: Geoffrey Rush Will win: Christian Bale

Best Actress Annette Bening – The Kids Are All Right Nicole Kidman – Rabbit Hole Jennifer Lawrence – Winter’s Bone Natalie Portman – Black Swan Michelle Williams – Blue Valentine

Best Actress is a two-horse race between Bening and Portman. I personally think Jennifer Lawrence could win for her turn as Ree Dolly in the bleak Winter’s Bone, but voters are faced with really two options: the Hollywood legend or the young starlet? Neither The Kids Are All Right nor Black Swan are in my top five films of the year but I do think Bening and Portman gave great performances. Portman was fantastic as the ballerina going off the deep end and Bening carried Kids as the opinionated mother, Nic. I wonder if they’ll split votes with another nominee sneaking in for the win but I’ll go with Bening. Portman has a long career ahead of her.

Should win: Natalie Portman/Annette Bening Will win: Annette Bening

Best Actor Javier Bardem – Biutiful Jeff Bridges – True Grit Jesse Eisenberg – The Social Network Colin Firth – The King’s Speech James Franco – 127 Hours Colin Firth is the only other lock of the night after Bale. His turn as the stuttering George VI in The King’s Speech was inspiring and one of his best performances to date. It is his second Best Actor nomination, which seems surprising for an actor with such an extensive filmography. I thoroughly enjoyed Jesse Eisenberg’s performance as Mark Zuckerberg and was impressed in his handling of screenwriter Aaron Sorkin’s quick banter. Jeff Bridges was better than John Wayne as Rooster Cogburn but I don’t think he’ll score a back-toback win. The King’s Speech is poised to dominate the evening and it doesn’t seem likely it will get upset in this category.

Should win: Colin Firth Will win: Colin Firth

Best Picture Black Swan The Fighter Inception The Kids Are All Right The King’s Speech 127 Hours The Social Network Toy Story 3 True Grit Winter’s Bone I believe the five best films of the year are The King’s Speech, True Grit, Inception, The Social Network and The Fighter. The other five get the honor of just being nominated. Like many of the other categories, Best Picture is a two-horse race between The King’s Speech and The Social Network.

Although I expected to hate the Facebook movie, I found it highly entertaining but not Best Picture.

Personally, I think the two best films were The King’s Speech and True Grit. While The King’s Speech seems unstoppable, I wonder if it and The Social Network will act as a sort of dark horse and split votes leaving a win open for True Grit.

The Coen Brothers film scored an impressive 10 nominations and is a gorgeous Western.

The Best Picture winners from the last decade of the early 2000s were largely dark films filled mainly with violence and despair. The 2010s should start off on a positive note with The King’s Speech. It’s a movie that makes you do everything between laughing, crying and smiling: you leave the theater feeling more optimistic about the world. In this day in age, I think a little more happiness is what we all need and what better place to find it than at the movies?

Should win: The King’s Speech Will win: The King’s Speech

Graphic by Hilary Burns /Old Gold & Black

Humor Column | Reverand Robert Hooke

Fan letter highlights columnist’s ability to heal with words William Daly Staff columnist

I would like to thank all my faithful readers for their loving support through the last few years. I would especially like to thank my greatest fan, the one whose “children named their children after me” before he had ever met me. I find no other reward more fitting for your undying allegiance than to publish your letter of praise: a beacon of my brilliance as a humoristic writer.

“Eight months ago I was broke, homeless and completely illiterate — and then I read William Daly’s column. Just seeing his words for the first time moved me to tears.

I was, of course, illiterate and was only reacting to the shapes of the letters and their arrangement, but I felt his writing’s intensity and knew in my heart its potency. It was through his second article that I mastered the art of reading and broke the bonds of illiteracy to join the leagues of the highly literate.

The fractured, dyspeptic style of Daly’s alt-journalistic prose shook me so greatly that in spasms of pure, lofted emotion, my heart literally burst into flames like a phoenix; a new heart rose from the old heart’s ashes in the cavern of my chest. A doctor would later

tell me it was heartburn and that there were inexpensive over-the-counter pills to help with stuff like that.

I reminded him that heartburn does not cause one’s heart to burst into flames with a great mythical avian death-rattle and he told me that, yes, he was aware of that, but that it was in fact heartburn.

By the time his third article came out, I was suffering from appendicitis.

It was a new illness at that time, a real medical mystery, and no doctor in the contiguous United States knew how to cure me. Burning up with fever, gaunt and as ghostly pale as an elderly man doomed to forever jump on an extra springy trampoline, I had given up hope.

My last request was that I be allowed to read Daly’s third article. Three

priests brought it to me on a silver platter (because at that time I had become insanely rich thanks to the insights that Daly’s first two articles provided me).

With feeble and trembling fingers I folded the pages of the paper until I, arrived at Daly’s article. The first word restored me to full health immediately.

The second turned my blood into liquid gold and the third turned my tears into diamonds. A doctor would later tell me that my blood had not, in fact, turned into liquid gold and that my tears were still composed of the usual bodily fluid, but nothing will sway me from what I knew right then to be the truth.

I knew that I had to write to the OGB when I read Daly’s most recent article on Benjamin Button. It was like he was speaking directly to me. I

have been going through the de-aging process all my life, and I broke down reading Daly’s article because I finally felt that someone understood exactly what it was like to have my curse. I had a peer, an empathic force, a cathartic source; I was finally happy.

A doctor would later tell me that I was not, in fact, going through anything at all like the de-aging process and that it was just a silly idea I developed after watching the movie Benjamin Button after accidently eating a couple of the wrong kind of mushrooms. Talk about crazy.

All that I can say is that no doctor knows my heart like William Daly, doctor of the human soul. Also, William Daly reunited me with my longlost son Jimbo. For this — and much more — I thank him.”

B6 Thursday, February 24, 2011

Old Gold & Black Life

THE

HOT

CD Review | Low Country Blues

List

Allman Band front-runner goes solo in soulful new album

By Grace Beehler | Staff writer

Movie Theater Releases for Feb. 24 Drive Angry 3D The Grace Card Hall Pass The Lion of Judah Heartless Of Gods and Men Shelter

Did you know?

When you blush, the lining of your stomach also turns red.

Word Play See solution below

One-liner

Celeb Juice: This week’s gossip update

To steal ideas from one person is plagiarism. To steal from many is research.

While the United Kingdom is home to some of the most legendary voices in rock ‘n’ roll, like Robert Plant (Led Zeppelin), Mick Jagger (the Rolling Stones) and Roger Daltrey (the Who), the United States has a few rock icons of its own.

As a founding member of the Allman Brothers Band, Gregg Allman may have one of the most distinctive voices in American classic rock.

His voice, coupled with his brother Duane Allman’s incendiary guitar chops, launched the Allman Brothers Band to fame in the late ‘60s, and the band is still touring more than 40 years later.

Gregg Allman’s throaty Southern drawl hooked listeners with country-blues rock songs like “Midnight Rider” and “Come and Go Blues” and his voice soon became the definition of American southern rock.

While he is mainly known for the Allman Brothers Band, Allman has released several solo albums that have been relatively underwhelming.

1988’s Just Before the Bullets Fly and 1997’s Searching for Simplicity illustrated that he was at his best in the company of his brothers like Duane, Dickey Betts, Jaimoe Johanson, Berry

Oakley and Butch Trucks. Without Gov’t Mule and the Allman Broththe confidence of the Allman Brothers ers Band).

Band – full of freewheeling instru“Floating Bridge,” originally by mentation and earthy songwriting – Sleepy John Estes, opens the album Allman’s solo efforts fell flat. with a slow and steady bass line. AllUnlike his previous efforts, Low man’s vocals are his standard dusty Country Blues redeems his talent as a growl, relaxed and laid-back. solo artist. While the album does not A fuzzy electric guitar adds complexhave the complex ity to this track and heavy layers and it becomes of instrumeneasy to fall into Low Country Blues tation that the the slow thump of Allman Brothers the groove. “Little Artist | Gregg Allman Band has, Low

By Little,” a Best Tracks | “Blind Man,”“I Can’t Country Blues, bright and upbeat Be Satisfied” produced by T track, opens with For fans of | Allman Brothers Bone Burnett, is a few measures of Band and blues legends stripped down, Allman playing Genre | Folksy blues organic and not his go-to instruGrade | Aover-worked. ment, the HamAllman recently mond B-3 organ. underwent a liver “Devil Got My transplant as a part of his continuing Woman” is a slow, rumbling and recovery from Hepatitis C. Now, with stripped down version of the Skip the release of Low Country Blues, it is James classic, beginning with just a evident that the Macon, Ga., native steely acoustic guitar paired with Allhas come back just as strong and as man’s smoky vocals; the electric guitar, bluesy as ever. Eleven of the 12 tracks drums, bass and keys entering about on Allman’s first solo effort in 14 years halfway through the song. are covers of legendary songs by blues“I Can’t Be Satisfied” is an upbeat, men like Muddy Waters, Otis Rush, train song-like take on the Muddy Sleepy John Estes and B.B. King. “Just Waters classic that will surely add Another Rider” is an original, written some pep to anyone’s step. “Blind

by Allman and Warren Haynes (of Man” is a hip-swinging, sexy groove

Surrender to Sudoku

• Famed photographer David LaChapelle is suing popstar Rihanna for allegedly stealing his work in her new “S&M” music video. LaChapelle claims there are eight sequences in the video that steal his well-known photographs.

• Charlie Sheen kissed a young, blonde woman Feb. 22 and continued to hold hands with her down the street. Later that day Sheen announced that he has “two goddesses in his life.”

• Stromile Swift, the No. 2 pick in the 2000 NBA Draft, was arrested in Los Angeles earlier this month after arriving at a woman’s home with a gun in his pocket. Law enforcement sources said they responded to a complaint from a woman who told police she was receiving threatening text messages from Swift.

• Deena from the Jersey Shore has applied for a trademark on the name “Deena Nicole.” She plans to have the logo made on clothing to make a profit.

Student Union

Cooking Short Course Feb. 24 6 p.m.

Magnolia Room SU Films: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Pt. I Feb. 25 and Feb. 26 7 p.m. and 9 p.m.

Pugh Auditorium

Drink of the Week Harry Potter

Celebrate this week of wizardry with a drink in Harry’s name. This potion will taste great but beware of any unusual and magical side effects like transfiguring into party animals.

1 oz. blackberry liqueur 1 oz. Buttershots liqueur 1 oz. raspberry liqueur 1 splash cranberry juice Shake well over ice in a shaker. Strain into a glass half-filled with crushed ice.

that adds horns to the mix of instruments that pushes Allman’s passionate and intense vocals.

Both “I Can’t Be Satisfied” and “Blind Man” are two of the most impressive tracks on the album and makes the following track, the Allman and Haynes original, “Just Another Rider,” sound incredibly weak, as it is not a classic blues song.

The lyrics are nothing new for an Allman Brother, singing about being on the road too far from home, but the standout electric guitar solo might be the track’s redeeming factor.

Other standout tracks include “I Believe I’ll Go Back Home,” another slow-rolling, traditional blues number and “Tears, Tears, Tears” and “Rolling Stone,” both of which feature Allman’s emotional organ playing.

Low Country Blues feels like the blues, but it cannot be determined that this is Allman’s work or actually the work of those blues legends who sang the originals like Muddy Waters and B.B. King.

Regardless, Allman’s voice is a standout that fits perfectly with the tracks that were chosen by him and producer T Bone Burnett; the album is certainly his most impressive solo attempt to date and holds lots of promise for the future.

Check back next week for the solution to this week’s problem.

In case you haven’t noticed, we like to keep people waiting in suspense.

Solution from 2/17 Difficulty Level: Hard

Movie Review | Gnomeo & Juliet

Garden décor attempt to tell timeless love story

By Morgan Schutte | Contributing writer

The most recent adaptation of Romeo and Juliet’s tragic romance will have Shakespeare rolling over in his grave.

As a lover of animated films, I was excited to see Touchstone Pictures’ Gnomeo and Juliet, but even Sir Elton John’s contributions couldn’t save this miniature disaster. The film felt like a desperate attempt to compete with Disney Pixar and DreamWorks but its lack of originality and poor execution left Touchstone playing the fool.

Touchstone was obviously targeting a very young audience; however, the bar for children’s entertainment has been raised by films like Finding Nemo and Toy Story, and Gnomeo just cannot compete.

Instead of a sword fight, the story begins with an exciting lawnmower race between Tybalt, a red gnome, and Gnomeo, a blue gnome.

Of course Tybalt cheats and Gnomeo vows revenge. While seeking his revenge, Gnomeo is caught and has to make a quick getaway into an unfamiliar yard.

While there he meets a beautiful gnome disguised in all black; of course, this is Juliet, who has snuck out to steal a special orchid for her garden.

With Elton John blaring in background, Gnomeo & Juliet the the two gnomes fall in love. Even Rating | G after Gnomeo Director | Kelly Asbury discovers that Who’s it for? | Little kids or Juliet is a red Shakespeare enthusiasts gnome, he is Running Time | 1 hr. 24 mins. spellbound.

Grade | C Back in the red gnome yard, Juliet tells her friend Nannett, a French frog, about her newfound love. Nannett, one of the few comical characters, encourages Juliet to follow her heart.

The two lovers meet the next day in a neutral yard where they find an abandoned shed. Upon opening the shed, they encounter a plastic pink flamingo named Featherstone who happens to have a hysterical Mexican accent. Featherstone tells the gnomes his own love story that ended in heartbreak.

The absurdity continues when Gnomeo is blamed for a lawnmower accident that smashes Tybalt to pieces. The red gnomes are furious and demand that Gnomeo be smashed. He manages to elude danger by jumping onto a fine china truck. The truck drops a teapot out of the back and it smashes onto the concrete, leading the gnomes to believe that Gnomeo is dead.

Photo courtesy of Walt Disney Films

Gnomeo (voiced by James McAvoy) and Juliet (voiced by Emily Blunt) fall into each other’s plaster arms in the latest adaptation the famous play.

Once again, everyone wants revenge. Blue gnome Benny devises a plan to destroy the red gnomes for good. He sneaks into the house to purchase a souped-up lawnmower online. All the while, Elton John plays in the background.

Perhaps the most ridiculous part in the entire film is the scene where Gnomeo sits on top of a bronze Shakespeare statue in the middle of a park.

He tells bronze Shakespeare all about his troubles, at which point Shakespeare tells Gnomeo that his story sounds very similar to one of his plays, but that in his play, both lovers die. I believe it was at this point that I decided that the film was a complete flop.

The lawnmower Benny bought ends up destroying both the blue and red gnomes’ yards. However, smashing little Gnomeo and Juliet to pieces would be a scarring experience for any toddler; therefore, everyone survives and the two live happily ever after.

There is even a sing-along at the end to leave you feeling all warm and fuzzy. Of course you cannot completely hate little garden gnomes; they are just so cute. I did find joy in watching them bounce around the screen, and maybe you will too.

Nevertheless, I left the film disappointed. I think it is accurate to say that Gnomeo and Juliet will most definitely be added to a long list of failed Shakespearian adaptations.

Solution to Word Play: In between jobs

Life Old Gold & Black

Whether it’s flip flops, hiking boots or high heels you’re donning, get ready for SB 2011

By Grace Beehler | Staff writer For underclassmen, spring break gives students an opportunity to explore the region around the university; for seniors, spring break is the last hurrah before graduation and the real world.

But with the typical university workload and sometimes flighty friends, you might be having a difficult time solidifying spring break plans.

The standard options are always available: visit your friends at other colleges, head home and spend time with your family, or join a massive group of students aboard a cruise ship and sail around the Bahamas. But if you’re looking for fun and creative things to do during the second week of March, there are many unique opportunities available at different price points.

Mardi Gras One of the most popular trips for this year’s spring break seems to be Mardi Gras. This year, Mardi Gras, literally meaning “Fat Tuesday” for all those non-French speakers, falls relatively late, on March 8. It is the last day of Carnival season and always falls on the day before Ash Wednesday.

While the vibrant and energetic city of New Orleans parties all during Carnival, the prime days are from March 4 through March 8. New Orleans, according to locals, is pretty much shut down on Ash Wednesday. Dozens of awesome parades, crazy and unique characters,

SB 2011 amazing food (Emril Lagasse, anyone?), and an overall distinctive and incredible experience is what draws so many crowds to this colorful city.

Getting to New Orleans is possible via car – about a 13-hour drive – and also possible via airplane. Many visitors plan to stay in the French Quarter or within walking distance of the main attractions because many streets are blocked off due to the parades.

Most hotels are booked already, but with diligent searching you might be able to come across a cancellation.

Staying outside the city (or not within walking distance) might prove to be difficult because of transportation to and from the hotel.

But if you have friends at Tulane or in New Orleans, crashing on floors is always an option. Mardi Gras is a great opportunity for seniors looking for one last memorable spring break. But with the massive crowds and debauchery that occurs during Mardi Gras, this spring break option might not be best for everyone.

Hit the Road Road tripping is another viable option for last-minute spring break plans. All you really need is a reliable car and some down-for-anything, low maintenance friends. If you’re looking for some sun and sand, the southeast beaches are always an option.

Myrtle, Hilton Head, Savannah and Charleston, are all under a six-hour drive. Charleston might be a little too touristy during spring break, but its historic beauty and southern charm, not to mention rather fun nightlife and nearby beaches, makes this city

a destination that I keep returning to each semester.

A longer drive (about 13 hours) that almost guarantees warm weather is the trek down to southern Florida. Fort Myers on the western tip of Florida (as well as Sanibel and Captiva) is a fun destination, but also boasts beautiful and quiet beaches. Parts of Fort Myers can get a little crazy with other spring breakers, but it is a relatively cheaper option.

The Sunshine State On the eastern side of southern Florida, you have Miami, of course. Also about a 13-hour drive, Miami is known for its extravagant nightlife and pulsating culture, and would definitely be a blow-out spring break trip for seniors.

However, it might be necessary to be 21 if you plan on making it to Miami and enjoying the club scene.

And if you don’t plan on staying in one place for the entire week, make the 105-mile long drive from Key Largo to Key West on U.S. Route 1. The entire drive is on a bridge or causeway so you’re always surrounded by the water. And for the literary dorks out there, visit Ernest Hemingway’s home and museum in Key West.

The Florida Panhandle on the Gulf Coast is another option for road tripping. The extremely popular and crazy party in Panama City, about 11 hours away, plays host to MTV’s spring break. This draws over 500,000 college students each year for a week of drunken adventures. So if MTV and many drunken students is not your idea of a unique spring break, Panama City probably isn’t for you.

But, hotels and house rentals are pretty cheap right now, mainly because people think that the Gulf of Mexico is polluted with millions of gallons of oil from the explosion of the Deepwater Horizon last spring.

The Great Outdoors For more outdoorsy and active people, there are many camping and hiking opportunities in the area. Spend the weekend in Asheville and enjoy the vibrant and quirky characters, see a concert, and then head a little farther west to see either Chimney Rock State Park or the Appalachian Trail.

The Appalachian Trail provides great trails and hikes for both day and weeklong hikers. The full Appalachian Trail runs from Maine all the way to Georgia, but it is still an accomplishment to say that you have done part of it. An eightmile section of the Appalachian Trail begins in Nantahala Outdoor Center in Almond, N.C. The Nantahla Outdoor Center is one of the leading centers for kayaking, canoeing and rafting. Rafting trips with a guided group will probably cost more than you would expect, but rafting is definitely a thrilling experience.

Thursday, February 24, 2011 B7

Give Back!

For students who want to give back to the world, there are dozens of service trips available. Both Habitat for Humanity and United Way have programs in the United States that help rebuild impoverished areas. Instead of partying in Montego, Projects Abroad will be going to Jamaica and rebuilding homes in the parish of Manchester.

These type of trips generally run for well over $1000, not including airfare, but the experience is generally said to be worth the price. If you want to stay in the continental United States, the American Hiking’s Volunteer Vacations sends vounteers to revitalize trails of America’s National Forests and Parks.

Trail difficulties range from easy to very strenuous and all you really need is a sleeping bag. If you’re a member of the American Hiking Society, the trip only costs $95 a week, $125 for non-members.

The possibilities for spring break are endless. Whether you want to get lots of beads at Mardi Gras, party with thousands of other college students on the beach, hike the beautiful mountains of North Carolina or participate in a helpful and giving alternative spring break, constantly remember that there are no “spring breaks” in the real world, so take advantage of this week away from homew o r k and responsibilities while you can.

Graphic by Renee Slawsky/Old Gold & Black

Book Review | Armageddon in Retrospect

Contemporary classic writer’s anthology commemorates career

F UNNY G UY

By Sarah Godwin | Contributing writer

south of Berlin, Germany. He was eventually transported to Dresden, where he was treated Armageddon in Retrospect is a recent post-mor- inhumanely by the Germans until the firebombtem release from the familiar American writer ing of Dresden by the United States.

In the letter he remarks with surprise: “On Kurt Vonnegut. Vonnegut’s collection of novels includes acclaimed Slaughterhouse-Five (1969) about February 14th the Americans came over, followed by the R.A.F. (Royal Air Force) their and Breakfast of Champions (1973).

Vonnegut traditionally explores science fiction combined labors killed 250,000 people in 24 scenarios with pop culture references. He has hours and destroyed all of Dresden — possibly experimented with this writing style over the the world’s most beautiful city. But not me.”

His presence during the firebombing of Drescourse of his career by interjecting himself, his den later inspired Slaughterhouse-Five, but was drawings and his thoughts into his works.

Every single Vonnegut novel is a unique and not written until approximately 20 years later.

Seeing Vonnegut’s initial response to the expericolorful adventure for the reader who enjoys ence of war lays the foundation for the developdark comedy.

Armageddon in Retrospect could serve as a unique ment of Vonnegut’s perspective on violence and introduction to Vonnegut for the novice reader. the prospect for peace.

His blunt and even comiThe book is comprised cal remarks on the devasof a collection of short Armageddon in Retrospect tation of war convey charstories and letters that were acteristics of Vonnegut’s left unpublished prior to Author | Kurt Vonnegut writing and personality.

Vonnegut’s death in 2007.

Genre | Satirical science fiction The collection’s inclusion Published approximately For fans of | Fans of dark comedy or of biographical notes will a year after his death, the novice Vonnegut readers be of great interest to Vonanthology begins with an negut fans. introduction by Vonnegut’s Grade | A The anthology allows the son, Mark Vonnegut, who reader to interpret for his or provides insight into his herself the meaning of war father’s life.

It also introduces the theme of the anthology, and whether peace between opposing countries is ever possible. which is namely the emotional impact of war.

This collection is a timely addition to the VonMany of Vonnegut’s works are influenced by his experiences as a soldier and a prisoner of war negut repertoire because of its applicability to the during World War II. All of the short stories ongoing wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The reader will be impressed not only with the included come from early in his career and are historical accuracy and contemporary sources impacted by his reflections upon WWII. For example, The Commandant’s Desk is a story provided, but the way the short stories are writthat seems to be Vonnegut’s own reflection on the ten to draw upon the depression of war and the relationship between invading military personnel meaning, if there is one, to war.

The last piece included in the collection is a and enemy civilians and the resulting potential transcript of the last speech he prepared, but for a purely human connection.

In addition to his early short stories, the never actually presented.

The speech is dotted with Vonnegut’s wit dealanthology includes Vonnegut’s public speeches ing with war-time emotions as well as his own and letters.

One of the most interesting inclusions is a letter retrospection on Armageddon.

The publication of this anthology a year after written by Vonnegut to his family shortly after his escape from a German-controlled prisoner the Vonnegut’s death is not only an excellent conclusion to Vonnegut’s writing career, but also of war camp.

The letter summarizes his army division’s sur- an invitation for new and old Vonnegut readers render and subsequent journey to a prison camp to stay in touch with his blunt common sense.

Kathryn Rohlwing/Old Gold & Black

A new visitor to the usual crowd at Shorty’s, comedian Tim Young, entertained a large crowed of laughing diners Feb. 18 as part of a Student Union event.

B8 Thursday, February 24, 2011

Old Gold & Black Life

Female jealousy greatly complicates the thrill of threesomes

By Aaron Colston | Contributing writer

Of course every man’s fantasy is to have two women yearning for his attention. However, the question becomes if a man can handle this. The idea seems more promising than the reality. The concept of a threesome at face value seems captivating, but when taking a closer look: is it worth the lasting effects?

At the end of the day, the girls will always have the potentially negative consequences to deal with. For example, they may feel guilty or be called a whore. Although a man’s sexual appetite may be fulfilled, from the women’s perspective the contentment may not be so evident.

On one side, the “main” girl may feel jealous because this new exciting adventure that causes the attention of the man to be divided. The word intimacy is initially thought to apply to two people and this new physique adds a novel variable to the relationship equation. The intriguing nature of a threesome may soon become a trigger of numerous disputes. A man cannot physically fully please both women without one of them being either less satisfied or extremely jealous.

On the other hand, the “new” girl, who might have initially be intrigued by such a heightened expression of emotion, may soon realize the subsequent emotional effects of such expression.

Being brought into a relationship that has already been established, it would be difficult to deal with the emotional detachment. Also, on

a broader social level, this “other” girl would be given a new status in social circles, being considered easy or a home-wrecker for simply getting in touch with her wild side.

For a man, however, in theory having a threesome would be somewhat of a rite of passage: transforming from an average male to a sexually creative godlike creature. He may be praised, allowing those less fortunate to live vicariously through his experiences.

Threesomes act as double-sided swords to participants, with the male the only one left truly satisfied. We get all the accolades and pleasure with minimal consequence and minimal effort.

Threesomes for males, overall, are a general and definite “YES!” It is a win-win situation. We get the ultimate “bro status,” while also having the pleasure of having double the sensation.

Women have to decide if the risk of quickly losing social status and the possibility of diminishing the health of a relationship are worth this exotic experience. In my opinion, women get the short end of the stick — both literally and figuratively.

He Said

By Pooja Patel | Staff writer

Like most of the issues involved in any type of relationship between a boy and girl, threesomes (as fun as they can be) can quickly become complicated and create more problems than they’re worth. Although there are various combinations and types of threesomes, upon hearing the word “threesome,” most think of two girls and one guy.

Many threesomes begin innocently enough with overly charged hormones and a desire to try something new. Sounds simple enough at first, but the hard part begins when feelings start to creep into the scenario, which they undeniably will.

There are multiple situations in which people engage in threesomes, but the most frequently one heard of, and discussed among groups of friends in college, is a regular couple plus another girl. Even if ground rules are set before having the threesome concerning what the girlfriend is and isn’t comfortable with, she is essentially getting a front row seat to her boyfriend’s infidelity. It’s true that there is a lot of grey area involved, but generally speaking, watching a guy you care about (assuming you care) cheat on you would be hard to stomach. As it is commonly known, girls are

She Said

far more susceptible to the green-eyed jealously monster than men, not to mention more selfconscious; having a threesome could potentially lead to an obsessive, never-ending comparison to “the other girl.”

On the other side of it, being “the other girl” in this scenario might seem exciting and adventurous, but again, it’s all relative to the specific dynamic of the threesome. If she is a friend of either one of the people or see them on a dayto-day basis, she is setting herself up for at least a small amount of inevitable awkwardness. Even worse, you could lose one or both of your friends because the girlfriend has trouble getting past it for one reason or another.

Now if the other girl is a completely anonymous, attractive stranger, it is definitely the better way to go. But still, what if she does become attached and wants more out of it? After all, sex, no matter how personal or meaningful it is or isn’t, is a chemically and emotional permanent connection to another person that can never be taken back.

Threesomes are scandalous, exciting and a whole other level of sexual experimentation but should be approached with great caution! If a girl can approach it like a guy does, then by all means, go for it. Think beforehand about whether or not you are the type of person that can have a threesome without becoming attached, jealous or resentful. It seems that the best way to go is with arbitrary chance. That way, the potential for emotional strain on the relationship is lessened.

Wake Abroad | No, I don’t speak the language

Trip to opera showcases cultural superiority to life on campus

By Mat Payne | Staff columnist

On most accounts, the social activities associated with the college lifestyle aren’t exactly considered “high-brow.” Going to basement parties and not caring about how you appear to the rest of society are acceptable behaviors within a certain context.

However, after living in Vienna for nearly two months, I’ve discovered that I can live the cultural high life, on a student’s budget.

It’s unavoidable that when talking about Vienna, the State Opera

will come up at least once. Home to some of the most respected directors, singers and conductors, the legacy that precedes this historical venue is completely justified.

After months of prodding from my mother and a hint of curiosity finally escaping through my “toocool for this” mentality, I finally decided to see if the Vienna State Opera was worth the hype. It was.

Like many others in my generation, I’ve never been a fan of opera or anything even vaguely related to it. For most of my life,

I’ve cringed at the thought, telling myself that the singing style was presumptuous and overly ornate, and that the language barrier made the music inaccessible for English speakers.

That being said, there have been few moments in my life where I’ve been so deeply moved as to reevaluate what’s valuable in my life on an existential basis, and in all truth, watching the aria in “The Marriage of Figaro” was one of those moments.

For two hours, I stood in the sweltering sardine tin that is the

standing room section for a good opera, completely transfixed in the performance. It was only after the show was over that I was able to comprehend exactly what I had experienced.

The full experience of seeing a show at the State Opera House is roughly two-thirds opera, onethird atmosphere. The décor of the hall is lavishly ornamented in baroque style with plush red carpet lining the floors and seats.

The real art in the room, however, is the attire of the patrons. If I were to list off the brands worn

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e W

mend a trip to the opera above all other things. The feeling of being royalty that the atmosphere inspires is worth the four-hour wait in line for good standing room spots and is even more worth the two to three hours you’ll be on your feet during the show.

The most important thing for a good opera experience is to read a plot synopsis online so you won’t be confused the entire time, allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty of the music in such an ornate atmosphere.

for excelle e v i r nc st

e

.

Don’t keep it to yourself!

that evening, it would sound more like a line from a rap track than anything else — Gucci, Louis Vuitton and Prada.

Even though I was by no means the best-dressed man in the room, just being there inspired a sort of Cinderella feeling in me, knowing that as soon as I got home I would put on the same skinny jeans and flannel shirt that I had worn for the last two days; however, in that moment, I was at the height of culture.

For anyone traveling to Austria in the near future, I would recom-

If you can’t rate us excellent please let me know why: lugo-mathew@aramark.com.

Sports/Advertisement Old Gold & Black

Thursday, February 24, 2011 B9

A Devil lives amongst the Deacons | Response to Feb. 3 article

Athletic allegiances should always remain with the Demon Deacons

By Steven Johns | Staff writer

A few weeks back, a colleague of mine wrote about how it’s okay to let your inner Duke flag fly. He used arguments such as: “My grandfather attended Duke University and my father was then the second generation to attend Duke, a little less than a half century later” as an excuse for this devilry behavior.

I’m here to say no, it is not okay to be an outward Duke fan at Wake Forest.

And for that matter, it’s not okay to be a UNC-Chapel Hill fan, an N.C. State fan or a fan of any other college while you’re attending Wake Forest.

Now I understand what it’s like

growing up in a household that supports another college.

My dad brought me up a Notre Dame fan. And while I’m happy if Notre Dame beats the likes of Navy or especially Miami (thank you Sun Bowl), I will be the first fan screaming at the Fighting Irish this fall when the Deacs host the Notre Dame football team.

I will yell and shout like every other Screamin’ Demon. I’ve already started heckling my dad about the game, pumping up my beloved Deacs.

I am but one example of a Wake Forest student with a former tie to another team. But that’s just it, they’re former ties.

Like me, you made the decision

to attend this great university and in doing so, you pledged you’re allegiance to Wake Forest athletics, as disappointing as they may be.

I also cannot help but look at the timing of Mr. John Turner’s Duke-loving article.

So Wake is having a tough year this year. So the basketball team is struggling without the likes of Ish Smith and AlFarouq Aminu. But that doesn’t mean it’s okay to jump off the Demon Deacon fan train and hook back on the Duke bandwagon.

No, a true fan sticks with his team through and through. A true fan doesn’t jump off of his school’s bandwagon just because

it’s having a bad season. A true fan doesn’t don the colors of the Blue Devils in a time of failure; a true fan shows support for his team by wearing more old gold and black.

Mr. Turner argues that it is not necessary to drop your ties just because you attend a different school.

In fact it is completely necessary to drop your ties when coming to Wake Forest, especially if those ties involve Duke, UNC-Chapel Hill or N.C. State.

Those teams are our rivals.

We do not like those schools on this campus. This is the problem with Wake Forest fans right now. As soon as we start

performing poorly – and yes as a fan I do consider myself part of the Wake Forest team – fans stop going to games, stop watching the teams on TV and stop donning the old gold and black.

As soon as our football team finishes below .500 or the basketball team loses to Stetson, fans start fleeing from the Joel and BB&T and start clamoring over the Dukies or the Tar Heels.

If you want your team to care, or if you want your team to turn the bad season around, give them something to play for: go to the games, show them you still care! It is extremely disconcerting to walk through

the quad and see fellow students wearing bright blue Duke shirts or even brighter Tar Heel shirts.

If I were on a sports team here I would think, “Why should I try this year? These people don’t care about us.” How about you Duke fans and you Tar Heel fans and you Wolfpack fans go back into hiding?

Or better yet? Stop tainting our beautiful campus with your hideous blue and red shirts and go to Durham or Chapel Hill or Raleigh. We’ve got enough brilliant students and awesome fans that we don’t need you closet Duke fans among us.

Stop “bandwagoning” and start showing your true colors: old gold and black.

Hoops Failures: Statistical analyses reflect poorly on Deacs Continued from Page B1

since expansion, only a single team has won just two conference games. No conference team has ever gone winless or 1-15, where the Deacs stand now.

Dating back to 2003 where Pomeroy’s statistical analysis begins, there are several aspects of this year’s Wake Forest team that quantify just how bad this season has been.

Wake Forest’s current ranking of 247th would be the worst any ACC team has ever finished under Pomeroy’s formula. The worst team entering this year was Clemson in 2003, who finished 117th.

Furthermore, only two ACC teams have ever been worse than 100th

per month

in the final Pomeroy rankings: the the advent of the system, no ACC aforementioned Clemson team from team has ever finished the season 2003 at 117th worse than 200th and the 2009 in the country in Virginia Cavaliers adjusted offense Worst ACC Records in at 105th. or defense.

Expansion Era (1992) If the season Adjusted offense were to end right and defense 2011 Wake Forest 8-20 (1-12)* now, Wake Forest quantifies points 2009 Georgia Tech 12-19 (2-14) per would be the possession, 2001 Clemson 11-19 (2-14) worst ACC team while adjusting 1995 Duke 13-18 (2-14) since 2003 by a the statistic for the 1993 Maryland 12-16 (2-14) remarkable 130 schedule strength 1993 N.C. State 8-19 (2-14) spots. of the opposing Po m e r oy’s team’s offense and *3 games & ACC Tournament remaining analysis extends defense. beyond just the Wake Forest’s overall rank of adjusted offense the teams. Pomeroy also ranks teams is currently ranked 206th, while the based on offense and defense. Since adjusted defense is currently ranked

283rd. If the season were to end today, Wake Forest would not only be the worst team since 2003, it would also claim the infamous title of having both the worst offense and worst defense over the same span.

“It’s rare for a team to have both its major conference’s worst offense and its worst defense by very wide margins,” John Gasaway, notable college basketball statistician and analyst, said on his website.

After taking a closer look at the 2011 team compared to the worst teams in Wake Forest and ACC history, it appears that this could be one of, if not

the worst, team in conference history.

Once a team reaches a certain level of futility though, it really does not matter exactly where it is ranked in comparison.

The teams in the past have recovered from their atrocious years and turned their programs around to return to the NCAA Tournament.

Wake Forest needs to do the same and continue to work back to the caliber of play achieved over the previous two years.

If this downward spiral continues, it is not unreasonable to believe that Wake Forest fans will demand a change.

Old Gold & Black Sports

B10 Thursday, February 24, 2011

Walter: Lessons from the past influence decisions as a coach Continued from Page A1

Walter was also recruited by Villanova University and the University of Virginia for baseball, but fell in love with the energetic coach at Georgetown University, which caused him to head south to D.C. Walter’s experience as a studentathlete was no different than what he sees his players going through now at Wake Forest. He chose Georgetown because it was a great school, but faced a tumultuous adjustment period when it came to balancing his academic and baseball obligations.

“It was really difficult for me during my first spring season,” Walter said. “My grades were little to be desired for and the balance of school and practice was definitely something to get used to. But like anything else, you learn to budget your time and get better at your work habits.”

Walter graduated from Georgetown in 1991 with a degree in finance. He spent the following summer playing baseball for an independent team before his first coaching opportunity appeared: an assistant job at George Washington University.

The position would not be a paying one, but the university was willing to offer him some graduate classes and other paying gigs like managing the equipment room and tutoring studentathletes.

Walter had not yet decided whether he was going to try to continue playing baseball or if he was ready to move on to a corporate job, but he accepted the position anyway.

“I basically took the job at GW to delay the inevitable, but once I was there I fell in love with coaching and decided I wanted to be a coach,” Walter said. “It meant being in baseball for the rest of my life.”

Walter held the assistant coaching position for one year before being promoted to a higher assistant job that allowed him to go on the road to recruit players.

He also continued tutoring volleyball players during his second year and managed to complete a Master’s degree.

Walter remained at GW for a third year before receiving an offer to work as an assistant general manager in the front office for the Greensboro Bats, the then-New York Yankees Class-A affiliate that is now the

Greensboro Grasshoppers. For parents to consider a university could forgo. “I knew Wake had a two years, he performed tasks in the same place whose crime great baseball tradition and that in marketing, promotions and and destruction was garnering they were in the process of renosales and did everything from international attention. vating their stadium and making rolling out the tarp and serving “It was a difficult time because other facility upgrades,” Walter beer in the grandstand to pushing there was a lot of uncertainty,” said. “And of course it’s in the advertisements in the newspaper. Walter said. “It was simply a situ- ACC, which is arguably the best “The operations were pretty ation where there weren’t even baseball conference in the counsmall, so I got to experience all grocery stores or doctor’s offices try. I wanted to coach somewhere of it,” Walter said. “It was a great open. I lived in a trailer at the where I could get to the College opportunity because I got to see field, right next to the baseball World Series.” different aspects of the game.” stadium. I hooked it up to the Walter also appreciated the One day, a slightly better clubhouse water and showered scholastic standards at the uniopportunity in the locker versity because it reminded him presented room for six of his experience as a player at itself. The months.”

Georgetown and coach at GW. “People say that events define a head coachHowever, “Wake Forest has a better acaman, but I really think that only this adver- demic system, better baseball ing position at GW sity did not conference and a great athletic fits the President of the opened up hinder the director, Ron Wellman,” Walter United States. He is a man of his and the athsuccess of said. “There were a million reatime but a coach is a man of his Walter’s bud- sons to take this job and I haven’t letic department needed ding team. had a regret for one second.” players.” to fill the Despite the “I think I’m a player’s coach Tom Walter spot quickly havoc that because I treat our players with Head Baseball Coach with someK a t r i n a respect,” Walter said. “I let them one who had wreaked on do their job and do the same with knowledge New Orleans my assistant coaches. I have a of the university. in 2005, the Privateers still man- great deal of confidence in them Coach Walter was just 26-years- aged to finish over .500 for the and give them a lot of responsibilold at the time and to this day, first time in 10 years. ity so they can go do what they insists that he did not deserve to In the following year, UNO do best.” be a head coach. However, his won the Sun Belt ChampionWalter has a great level of hope record in the eight years follow- ship and went to the Wichita for the future of Wake Forest ing his decision to return to GW Regional Tournament, where baseball. proves otherwise. they beat Wichita State in the He is continuing to keep his During Walter’s second year as opening game. During Walter’s eyes on the prospect of going to the head coach of the Colonials, fourth season, the Privateers won the College World Series in the his baseball team set the school over 40 games and got a bid to next few seasons. However, it is record for wins in a season. The the 2008 Baton Rouge Regional clear in the way that he talks about team then proceeded to break Tournament. his team and players that he is a the record and set new ones in The success of the Privateers, bit distracted by the weight of Walter’s fourth, fifth, sixth and despite the challenges posed by what he did on Feb. 7. seventh years as coach.

Hurricane Katrina, continues to First, he can’t help but gush Walter even took the team to resonate in Walter’s life today. with pride over the courage and a regional tournament in Win“Hurricane Katrina really tenacity of Jordan, the freshman ston-Salem, where the Colonials helped me develop a different baseball player who received Walplayed against a very strong Wake view of mankind,” Walter said. ter’s kidney.

Forest team at Ernie Shore Field “So many people stepped forward “His story needs to be told; I in 2002. Two years later, Walter to help our program from Major think the fact that he showed was offered the head coaching job L e a g u e up on our at the University of New Orleans B a s e b a l l campus in and decided it was time to take and from the first place his skills down to the bayou. a r o u n d “There were a million reasons to is one of the Unfortunately, Walter’s start the coun- take this job and I haven’t had a most couraas a head coach at UNO did try during geous things regret for one second.” not go as smoothly as it had at our time I’ve ever GW. The word he chooses to of need. witnessed in describe his first season coach- We were a an athlete,” ing the Privateers is: “terrible.” really great story among all of Walter said.

His second season, which began the things you saw on television “The fact that he got up every in 2005, only got worse ­— Hur- about sniper shootings, looting, day instead of sitting in his room ricane Katrina hit the Gulf region crime, etcetera.” and feeling sorry for himself is an and absolutely devastated New Yet, just as the Privateers began incredible story. Kevin deserves Orleans. to see a slump in 2009, the coach- all the credit.” Walter also spoke In the aftermath of Katrina, ing job at Wake Forest became to the importance of donating Walter lost seven of his recruits available. organs when asked about his deciand four of his returning players.

Walter had thrived under the sion to give up one of his kidneys.

The hurricane forced UNO to pressure of rebuilding a team in He listed statistics about the be more local with their recruit- the wake of a natural disaster, average wait-time for a kidney ing because it was impossible to but the opportunity to coach the (four years) and the number of convince young men and their Demon Deacons was not one heB:11.5” people who die every day waiting

You’ll ask him about the side dish.

Photo courtesy of Media Relations

Head Coach Tom Walter looks on from the coach’s box. Walter is in his second season at Wake Forest. for an organ (18 people). “I’m happy for the kidney organ donor program and the attention that they’re getting for what I did,” Walter said.

“Maybe the story will reach someone in Nevada and they’ll try to donate and help someone.

If it helps one person, then it’s worth it.”

When solicited, Walter will draw vague comparisons between his experience on the operating table at Emory University Hospital and in his trailer at the UNO baseball stadium.

However, he refuses to say that either of the events defines him as a person.

“People say that events define a man, but I really think that only fits the President of the United States,” Walter said. “He is a man of his times, but a coach is a man of his players.”

This statement is indicative of a greater pattern in Walter’s general persona. No matter the topic, he deflects all credit for his personal achievements and willingness to

sacrifice onto anyone other than himself. Occasionally, he thanks Wake Forest Athletic Director Ron Wellman for his support and his grandmother MeMe for keeping such a strong household.

However, he most often refers to his mother, Anne, as the source of his personal values.

“My mother left New York as a single mother when she was only 20-years-old because she wanted to give us a better life,” Walter said.

“All along the way she made sacrifices for us. When my father was going to graduate from school, she waited tables at night and worked two shifts, but always had something in the crock-pot and dinner on the table.”

In part, it was the selfless actions that he witnessed growing up that made the decision to donate his kidney to Kevin so easy.

He also attributes his readiness to make such a sacrifice to the coaches that have touched his life, as they are the ones who taught him to put his players first.

But you won’t ask him about the side effects.

We ask questions everywhere we go, yet at the doctor’s office, we clam up.

Ask questions. For a list of 10 everyone should know, go to AHRQ.gov.

Questions are the answer.