August 31, 2012 Print Edition by ORU Oracle

Oral Roberts University • Aug. 31, 2012 Tulsa, Okla. • Vol. 47, No. 2 www.oruoracle.com

ORU Worship Center releases “Come Like a Flood” album PAGE 20

Jon Torres leads the Christ’s Chapel crowd in worship. Photo by Austin St. John THE ORACLE • Friday, Aug. 31, 2012 • 1

IN THIS EDITION

Muse:

Address 7777 S. Lewis Ave Tulsa, OK 74171 Web www.oruoracle.com Phone (918) 495-7080 Email oracle@oru.edu The Oracle is the premier student news media organization of Oral Roberts University. Our mission is to serve the ORU community with accurate and relevant media content, integrity, creativity and a focus on continual improvement.

Advisers W. Kevin Armstrong Journalism warmstrong@oru.edu

“Come Like a Flood” released

Sports:

Editorial

Women’s soccer team prepares for fall season

Scene:

PAGE 20

Amy Lecza Editor-in-Chief oraclechief@oru.edu

Hannah Covington Managing Editor oracle@oru.edu

Section Editors

Graphics & Art

Kelsie Wardell Copy Editor Meagan Ewton Online Editor Greg Brown Life Sarah Dinwiddie Faith Jessica Sherwood Scene Billy Burke Sports Kelsie Wardell Muse

Austin St. John Print Production Mgr. Ashley McMunn Graphic Designer Mark Niemeyer Graphic Designer Stephen Nanna Graphic Designer Stephen Salmon Photography Editor Sami Prichard Photographer Jeanette Rerubeis Photographer Ben Garrett Photographer Austin St. John Photographer

Reporters

BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST

M The Oracle strives for accuracy and 2010 integrity in all content. If you find a SEQUOYAH mistake,AWARD let us know: WINNER Phone: (918) 495-7080 O KL A H

Letters to the Editor Have a thought or story idea you’d like to share? Send us an email at oraclechief@oru.edu.

OKLAH

BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST

Tag yo’self in this massive photo

PAGES 10 - 11

RESS ASS

2010

SEQUOYAH AWARD WINNER

TION CIA

2 • Friday, Aug. 31, 2012 • THE ORACLE

TION CIA

An inside look at Partiestival

Jennifer Jost Business Mgr. Destinee Thames Sales Mgr. Michael Garcia Sales Rep. Jeff Barker Designer

M Interested in working for the Oracle? Stop by our office, LRC 175 and fill out 2010 SEQUOYAH an application! Positions include photography, graphic design, advertising, AWARD WINNER layout and reporting.

Corrections RESS ASS AP

PAGE 13 PAGE 4

RESS ASS

Advertising

TION CIA

Life:

Center:

Francesca Lucido Staff Writer Aba Hammond Staff Writer Chelsey Butler Staff Writer Kristy McCreary Staff Writer Ian Harrup Staff Writer Lindsay Meeker Staff Writer Madison McDaniel Staff Writer Amber Smith Staff Writer Meghan Drake Staff Writer David Sauer Staff Writer O KL A H O

The Fresh Market opens at 81st and Yale

PAGE 17

Cristi Freudenrich Advertising cfreudenrich@oru.edu

BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST

Member of: - Associated Collegiate Press - College Media Advisers - Oklahoma College Media Association - Columbia Scholastic Press Association

Web www.oruoracle.com Facebook www.facebook.com/ORUOracle Twitter @ORUOracle

LIFE NEWS BRIEFS

Local outbreak of West Nile Virus claims life of ORU coach’s father By Hannah Covington Eighty cases of West Nile Virus have been reported in the state of Oklahoma so far in 2012, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Five cases have resulted in death, placing the nationwide death toll at 66 and the total cases at 1,590, the most since the African-born disease first surfaced in the U.S. in 1999. On Sunday, Tulsa resident Conley Phipps Sr., 77, died from the virus after being diagnosed in July. Phipps was the father of Conley Phipps II, the ORU men’s basketball recruiting coordinator. Phipps is in his 12th season on the coaching staff. Phipps Sr. served the Green Country area as a teacher and basketball coach for more than 25 years. He also faithfully supported his son’s team during his time with the Golden Eagles. Glenn Smith, the university’s athletic trainer from 1972 to 2011 and current instructor of health, physical education and recreation, witnessed firsthand this fan’s faithful support for his son’s team over the years. “He followed him everywhere, re-

gardless of how far it was,” Smith said. “He would drive from Tulsa to every road game.” Smith said Phipps will be missed for the impact he made — both on and off the court. “Everyone called him ‘coach,’” Smith said. “I would see old players come up to him and say, ‘Hey, coach, I’ve got four kids now,’ or ‘Do you remember that one game?’” “They all flocked to him.” Due to the seemingly sharp influx of reported West Nile cases, many are questioning the reasons behind the increase, particularly in the TexasOklahoma region. These two states account for more than 50 percent of cases nationwide. Dr. Joel Gaikwad, associate professor of biology, points to the heat as one of the underlying causes. “Even though no one knows exactly why it’s worse in Oklahoma and Texas, we do know that mosquitoes are very active in hot weather, and this summer has been extremely warm,” Gaikwad said. July registered as the sixth warmest month on record for Oklahoma.

Internet Photo

Phipps Sr. coached basketball in Skiatook, Sperry and Cleveland, Okla.

Student awarded Trow Scholarship

Gaikwad expects the numbers of cases to taper off by September, with mosquitoes unable to survive in colder temperatures. Mosquitoes contract West Nile by biting infected birds. They then transfer the virus by biting human hosts. The insects breed in standing pools of water, causing some to believe their numbers should dwindle because of the recent drought. Gaikwad said this is not necessarily so. “All you need is a small puddle of water, like potted plants with a saucer carrying excess water,” he said. “Don’t look at the drought; look in your own backyard.” Though 2012 boasts the greatest number of West Nile cases in 13 years, Gaikwad said the numbers are not radically high. “There’s no need for alarm. Students should just be sure to protect themselves with Deet when out in the evenings and be aware of potential symptoms,” he said. According to the Tulsa Health Department, symptoms of West Nile are similar to the flu and include: • Fever • Headache • Body aches • Fatigue • Nausea or vomiting The virus particularly affects infants and individuals older than 50. To protect the athletes who Phipps spent his life coaching and supporting, Smith said the ORU coaching staff is taking every precaution against the virus. “We always try to inoculate the kids, especially this year because this is the worst outbreak in recent memory,” he said. “We’re watching it closely.”

Dr. Susan Huffman, national president of Alpha Lambda Delta National Honor Society for First Year Students, recently announced that a Jo Anne J. Trow Scholarship in the amount of $6,000 has been awarded to Noelle Smits, a junior at ORU, for the 20122013 academic year. Each year, Alpha Lambda Delta awards at least 35 Trow scholarships to outstanding students across the country. Smits, a native of Highlands Ranch, Colo., is studying modern foreign language education.

ORU Outreach Chapel to be held

Get ready for Outreach Chapel next Friday, Sept. 7. The Missions and Outreach department at ORU will be introducing both previous and new outreaches in the Tulsa community. Beginning Sept. 15, ORU will take students to more than 20 outreaches each week. Outreaches vary in activity, from playing with children at the Dream Center to building homes with Habitat for Humanity. Come by the Missions and Outreach office and discover which outreach is right for you.

Beautiful Love Club holds first meeting

Beautiful Love, a new campus club, is raising awareness and funds for three orphanages in Burma, Haiti and Uganda. The first meeing will be held at 8 p.m. Sept. 10. “The club will be interactive,” said co-founder Rachel Scroggs. “We will be doing lots of fundraisers and different ways to raise awareness of the poverty in these countries. We will be planning a trip to visit the Uganda orphanage Beautiful Love has started in December.”

THE ORACLE • Friday, Aug. 31, 2012 • 3

PARTIESTIVAL

Photos by Austin St. John Partiestival offers students an opportunity to meet and greet and share some fun during the first weekend after classes begin each fall. The Student Association-sponsored event is held near Lake Evelyn. Clockwise from top left are (1) Jakare James enjoys slippin’ and slidin’, (2) Chris Holmes checks out a booth at Club Rush, (3) Keith Prater dances to live music, (4) Autumn Harper high-fives Sean Campbell, and (5) Ashley Holderness explains outreach opportunities during Club Rush.

4 • Friday, Aug. 31, 2012 • THE ORACLE

MMI students get into shape at boot camp The second annual event for multi-media trains incoming juniors.

By Madison McDaniel Suited in black and anchored down with camera gear, MultiMedia Institute students can be seen managing the “big boom” in chapel, filming basketball games at the Mabee Center and capturing other popular events on campus. MMI, a department geared toward juniors, continued its second year of boot camp this past summer, getting students prepared for the hectic year which awaited them. MMI Director Donald Eland continued the orchestration of boot camp, determined to instill the key objectives in his students that they needed to learn within two days. “We never had a training boot camp until two summers ago,” Eland said. “So they came back to campus early and they did two things: They trained at the Mabee Center for the crews that do chapel, and then they came here to our area and trained on our gear, which is just like the Mabee Center’s.” Juniors Zachary Gore and Joseph Dawson shared their experiences at boot camp as well as their progression from

freshman to junior year in the department. “It was different for me because I double major, so I have theology and I have multi-media, so I pretty much didn’t stop,” Gore said. “But the experience of coming back early and of being behind the scenes was a unique experience for someone who’s going to take this career in media seriously, and I think boot camp is a really great set-up. ... It shows you what the industry is like.” The camp kicked off with team building exercises that created a comfortable atmosphere, but with the ninehour work days ahead of them, students and faculty kept busy for the next two days. “We started at 8 in the morning, and we usually just talked about the different jobs we would be doing in chapel and what cameras we would be working on and how to put together the cameras,” Dawson said. “At noon we would have lunch, and at 1 we would go into a classroom and actually deal with the different policies, procedures and dress code they have and what books we need and software that we are going to use, and then after that we would leave at 5.” MMI students gained guidance and experience alongside successful and qualified figures in the media world. ORU

Kayla Herron tries out a camera shot in Christ’s Chapel during MMI Boot Camp in mid-August. Overall, the MMI Boot Camp gave perspective and experience to the students, leaving them feeling confident and proud of being a part of the media program on campus. “The idea of media is like a wild animal that needs to be captured and tamed,” Gore said. “And I think here at ORU we have the best game hunters with Mr. Eland and Mr. Zwick and Mr. Bush and Mr. Baker with that collaboration Photos by Don Eland of a team that they put Mike Wallace, who graduated from ORU with a media degree in 2010, together. They teach us shows junior John Fulton a camera technique during MMI boot camp. how to go out there and alumnus, Rick Wilson, pics. ing year. capture media and put who was responsible for Eland jokingly called “I got to see what we it into a perspective that filming the ariel views of juniors in the MMI were going to do, and can be understood and basketball, gymnastics program “slaves” to the I didn’t have to worry that people can relate to and other events at the department by devotabout being like, ‘Oh, and then be creative at 2012 Summer Olympics ing all of their time to am I doing this right?’” a point where you can in London, was brought capturing ORU’s biggest Dawson said. “I already teach God’s message.” in to aid the juniors with moments on film. knew going in what they Keep an eye out for his expertise. However, Dawson expected of us... like the work of MMI stuGore was impressed and Gore agreed that working chapel. If we dents during chapel, and at the humiltiy of Wilson the payoff of the boot hadn’t gone through the check out oru.mmi.org to for coming to the camp camp was that they felt boot camp I think all of further explore the Multiafter filming the Olymprepared for the upcom- us would’ve been terrible.” Media Institute.

THE ORACLE • Friday, Aug. 31, 2012 • 5

Medical center opens on 81st Premier Family Care occupies the former Victory Kids building across from ORU By Greg Brown A recent addition has been made to the options for ORU students’ medical assistance. Premier Family Care has opened a facility at the southeast corner of 81st Street and Lewis Avenue. Premier Family Care is a family practice clinic that focuses on a variety of services available to students at ORU. “We offer the treatment of minor medical emergencies, as well as immunizations and physicals,” said Rita Kirkendall, a representative from

Premier. She also pointed out a number of other benefits that this new center will present for those at the campus across the street. “The thing that sets us apart from other clinics in the area is the fact that we are open later than most,” Kirkendall said. “That, combined with our close proximity to the ORU campus, should appeal to most of the students there.” Walk-ins are welcome at Premier. It is the second location for a 7-year-old practice in Broken Arrow. When seeking treatment from Premier Family Care, you need to bring a few things to the office. “It’s important to bring an insurance card, photo

ID and copay,” Kirkendall said. “We accept most insurances, and we really prefer a driver’s license as identification.” If you’re looking for medical treatment on campus, Student Health Services is also available to anyone currently enrolled at ORU. Located on the first floor of the EMR dorm, Student Health allows patients to see a registered nurse or physician in times of need. This is available for any student needing help with a minor emergency, such as basic illnesses or injuries. Physician visits are free, while tests, medicines, shots and other necessities can be paid with cash, check or Eagle Bucks. Between the new

Photo by Ben Garrett

Premier Family Care’s 81st Street and Lewis office is the company’s second. Premier Family Care problem can be handled Saturday. clinic and Student promptly. Student Health Health Services, ORU If medical attention is Services is available on students should be needed, Premier Family campus from 8 a.m. to covered. However if there Care can be contacted at 4:30 p.m., and can be is a medical emergency, (918) 477-5190. It is open reached at (918) 495students should call 911 from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m. 6341. A nurse hotline is and contact security Monday through Friday, available 24/7 at (800) immediately so that the and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. 883-2951.

History professor Vickery publishes third book By Ian Harrup History Professor Paul Vickery recently released a new book, “Jackson: The Iron-Willed Commander,” that provides an overview of the military career of President Andrew Jackson. This is the third book by Vickery, following “Washington: A Legacy of Leadership,” published in 2011, and “Bartolome de Las Casas: Great Prophet of the Americas,” which was published in 2006. Vickery said he was approached to write a second “Generals” book almost immediately after the publication of “Washington,” and only had one year to write it. “Washington was my obvious first choice, but Old Hickory was always my second,” said Vickery. “He has always fascinated me, even though I don’t always agree with him. He is one of the greatest examples we have of strength of will and character, though he is one of the most controversial presidents in history.” The book is part of a series on military history, and is not a full biography on Jackson. According to Vickery, there are some details of Jackson’s young life Photo by Jeanette Derubeis only included in the book to show how he became the History Professor Paul Vickery has written and man that he is remembered as. published two books on U.S. presidents. Some major details Vickery shared were the

6 • Friday, Aug. 31, 2012 • THE ORACLE

differences in upbringing between Jackson and presidents before him. “He was the first log cabin president, not an aristocrat by any means,” Vickery said. “He was not from Virginia or Massachusetts, as all before him had been. Also, his entire family was dead by the time he was 15, making him the first orphan president.” “Jackson: The Iron-Willed Commander” features lengthy chapters on the most famous events of Old Hickory’s military career. This includes his many duels such as the Creek War, the Battle of Horseshoe Bend, the Battle of New Orleans, and the First Seminole War. Vickery assures, however, that the book is not overly comprehensive. “I wrote it for average people, so anyone can read it and learn about Jackson.” He adds, “I did have a 50,000-word limit.” He plans to use the book for some of his history classes. The book was commissioned by Stephen Mansfield, the series editor, who is an ORU alumnus. When asked if he will write more books in the series, Vickery said, “I don’t have any plans to right now, unless they ask me to do one more.” “Jackson: The Iron-willed Commander,” published

Register to vote; make a difference on Nov. 6 By Aba Hammond As a U.S. citizen, one of the most important rights you have is the right to vote. However, in order to vote and voice your opinion, you must first register to vote with the state in which you reside. The rules and requirements of each state vary, so the first thing you need to do is read about your state’s particular laws. Typically, registration is required at least 30 days before the election, but you’ll want to make sure, especially with the presidential election coming up Nov. 6. Here are some questions and answers to aid you through the voting process.

Q. Am I eligible to vote?

In order to vote in the United States, you have to meet certain basic requirements. Regardless of what state you live in, you must: • Be a citizen of the United States • Be a resident of the state in which you’re planning to register • Be at least 18 years old at the time of the next election. In order to register to vote you’ll need to fill out an Oklahoma Voter Registration Application. You can download the form from the Oklahoma State Election Board website or pick one up from your local tag agency. You’ll need to provide the following information on your registration application: • Name and address • Political affiliation • Birth date

• Driver’s license number or the last four digits of your Social Security number. There is also an oath on the registration form. You must sign and date the oath, swearing that you are eligible to vote. You may also contact the Oklahoma State Election Board at the following address: Oklahoma State Election Board P.O. Box 53156, Oklahoma City, OK 73152 (405) 521-2391 Just drop your voter registration application in the U.S. mail. The card is already addressed, but you’ll need to add the postage stamp. Bonus: If you complete your voter registration application at your local tag agent’s office, it will be mailed to the State Election Board for you.

Q. If I am living in another state temporar-

ily, or attending college away from home, do I need to register again at my temporary address? You should register to vote using the address of your permanent residence. If you receive your mail at a P.O. Box, you can provide that information on the voter registration application under the category of mailing address. Note: If you are requesting a ballot by mail, you may ask that your ballot be mailed to your temporary address, provided you will be at the temporary address on Election Day.

Q. How do I replace my voter registration card?

If you’ve lost your voter registration card, you’ll need to get a replacement card as soon as possible. In most cases, all you need to do is get in touch with the office of the county supervisor of elections where you are registered to vote. You can call their offices to request a replacement voter registration card, or you can fill out another voter registration application and send it off through the mail. If you’re already registered, they’ll simply issue you a new card. For more information, check out the following websites: The Oklahoma State Election Board’s site will give you basic, general information about registration specifics for in-state residents. The Oklahoma Department of Motor Vehicles’ site provides a simplified, concise to-do list for first-time voters who are Oklahoma residents. The U.S. Election Assistance Commission’s site will give you more information on out-of-state voting and how to procure an absentee ballot.

MEET YOUR RESIDENCE HALL DIRECTORS 1. What were you doing before you

joined ORU’s staff? Working at the Bare Essentials cosmetics counter in Dillard’s.

junior year, and I was the RA of Frances 6 last year. I loved campus life, leadership and the sense of community that ORU builds.

2. Where are

6. What do you think are current

you from and where did you attend college? I’m from Illinois, but I’ve been in Tulsa for 8 years. I graduated from ORU in May.

Abby Marten GABRIELLE

3. Family status? Single.

Photos by Stephen Salmon

4. What’s one item you’ll have in

fore you joined ORU’s staff? Working on a Master of Divinity degree at the Duke University.

2. Where are you

my walls, and they serve as altars of sorts. They remind me of the people and places that God has used to change me and nourish my soul.

Alexis Carter

from and where did you attend college? FRANCES 5. What I am from variwas your ous places. I grew up dormitory in a military family. I experience like as a stuattended ORU and graduated dent? in 2005. I lived in Claudius, Braxton and Frances. I loved dorm 3. Family status? life and made the most of it! I am an only child. I am not married. 6. What do you think are current key concerns of col4. What is one item you lege students? will have in your room that Identity , success, having makes your living space good quality relationships and your own? a preoccupation with future I have several pictures on plans.

8 • Friday, Aug. 31, 2012 • THE ORACLE

7. How do you endeavor to

enrich student life? I absolutely love ORU. To say that I agree with the vision is an understatement, because I have lived it. I made no little plans here, and I am passionate about helping others do the same.

your room that makes your living space your own? Pictures. You have to have pictures.

8. Is there a motto you live by that

5. What was your dormitory expe-

9. What is your advice for students who are dealing with a difficult person on their floor? Be patient, be kind and share Oreos with them.

rience like as a student? I was a commuter my freshman year. I lived in Susie my sophomore and

1. What were you doing be-

key concerns of students? Trusting God with their futures.

will help guide you? Coffee is key.

7. How do you endeavor

to enrich student life on campus? To illustrate and encourage faithful community building and discipleship through my words and deeds.

8. Is there a particular

motto you live by that will help guide you? “When Christ calls a man, he bids him to come and die.” -Dietrich Bonhoeffer

9. What is your advice for

students who are dealing with a difficult person on their floor? To discern how to best communicate and connect with these residents. This involves examining one’s heart to figure out how she may be contributing to the problem. Seek to be ambassadors of reconciliation.

Photos by Stephen Salmon

FAITH Students have many options when it comes to choosing local church Diversity exists in churches all across Tulsa By Sarah Dinwiddie Need a place of worship to call home? Whether you’re looking for a certain size, denomination or demographic, there’s a church for that in Tulsa. Victory Christian Center, Guts Church, Rhema and Church on the Move are among the largest charismatic, nondenominational megachurches in the area. VCC is located across the street and was started by ORU alumni Billy Joe and Sharon Daugherty. Guts is targeted toward the unchurched youth culture. Rhema has a word of faith history. The award for largest church in Tulsa goes to Church on the Move (COTM). Angie Lim, senior MMI major, has been attending COTM for a year and likes the mes-

sages from Pastor Willie George. “I like COTM because the teaching style is concise and easy to digest,” she said. “Worship is a little shorter than I’d like, but one really feels a genuine inclusive atmosphere.” Looking for a smaller church family? The options are staggering. The best way to narrow your search is probing other students. One place you could start is Believers Church. It’s a non-denominational, Holy Spirit-led community and is frequented by many ORU students and professors. ORU alumnus Roger Nix is lead pastor. Another option is Sanctuary Church with Pastors Brent and Janis Sharpe and Ed Gungor. It is contemporary and liturgical as well as a non-denominational charismatic church. They recite the Apostle’s Creed, Lord’s Prayer and

Sample of local churches: Victory Christian Center 7700 S. Lewis Ave., Tulsa

GUTS Church 9120 E. Broken Arrow Expy, Tulsa

Rhema Bible Church 1025 W. Kenosha St., Broken Arrow Church on the Move 1003 N. 129th E. Ave., Tulsa

Believers Church 4705 S. Memorial Drive, Tulsa

take Holy Communion every Sunday service. Greenwood Christian Center is a predominately black congregation in North Tulsa that boasts a large youth attendance. Pastor Gary W. McIntosh is an ORU alumnus. “They have a really great youth service called So F.L.Y. on Sunday nights at 6 p.m.,” said Nicole Williams, junior social work major. A bus comes to campus to pick students up for the youth services. Even smaller churches are just as abounding. Doxa Church is located at the Riverwalk Theater in Jenks. ORU Missions Professor Jimmy Shaw serves as pastor of the interdenominational church. It hosts a mid-sized congregation of college-age students. But don’t be fooled. Denominations abound in Tulsa. First United Methodist Church on Boulder Avenue in downtown

Sanctuary Church 2021 S. Lewis Ave., Tulsa

Greenwood Christian Center 1519 W. Pine St., Tulsa First United Methodist 1115 S. Boulder Ave., Tulsa

Doxa Church 600 Riverwalk Terrace, Jenks Holy Family Cathedral 122 W. 8th St., Tulsa

Photo by Stephen Salmon

Sanctuary Church is located near 21st Street and Lewis Avenue. Tulsa is a large, modernized, traditional church family pastored by R. Wade Paschal Jr. Holy Family Cathedral is a Catholic church downtown, with the Rev. Msgr. Gregory A. Gier serving as rector. The church holds daily Mass and four Sunday services.

Though senior biology major Melanie Wespetal does not identify herself as Catholic, she still enjoys attending Holy Family because of its strong liturgical emphasis, particularly during Holy Week. Wespetal said she attends “the stations of the

cross,” which illustrates different segments of the Crucifixion. “It happens on Good Friday, and I go every year,” said Wespetal. Woodlake Church is of the Assemblies of God tradition, and its church mantra is “Love God. Love people.”

STuDENTS

PRESENT STuDENT ID FOR HAIRCuT DISCOuNT 9641 S RivERSidE dR. E. TUlSa | 918-296-4400 6932 S lEwiS avE. TUlSa | 918-494-6928 4785 E 91ST ST TUlSa | 918-491-4096 807 EaST a ST. JEnkS | 918-299-5918

1-800-SUPERCUTS | SUPERCUTS.Com

Woodlake Assembly of God 7100 E. 31st St., Tulsa

THE ORACLE • Friday, Aug. 31, 2012 • 9

ORU Chapel

Tag yourself

facebook

Oral Roberts University

ORU is aiming to have the most-tagged photo in history. Check out this panoramic photo taken by ORU photographer Mark Moore. If you were in the room or have ever been to an ORU chapel service, go to ORUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Facebook page and tag yourself in the photo.

Scan this code with your smartphoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s QR code reader app and tag yourself from your mobile device!

ORU Chapel

Tag yourself

facebook

Oral Roberts University

Scan this code with your smartphoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s QR code reader app and tag yourself from your mobile device!

GSN hosts Bible trivia game show Religion News Service The world’s best-selling book has made it to the small screen in what is thought to be the first religiously themed game show on a secular network. “The American Bible Challenge” tests teams’ knowledge of the Old and New Testaments in a quiz show interspersed with stories of the competitors and the charities they play for. The show represents a bid to tap the religious market by the secular GSN (formerly Game Show Network). The base audience is evangelicals, said consulting producer Maura Dunbar, but she hopes it will appeal to a broader audience, including nonbelievers. “I think people of faith will have a very good comfort level, and I think this is an opportunity for all of us to hopefully open up the Bible to new audiences and engagement,” Dunbar said. Comedian Jeff Foxworthy, coming from Fox’s quiz show,

“Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader?,” will host the Bible challenge. Foxworthy describes himself as a Christian, and details attending Bible study with friends on the American Bible Challenge website. The show tests biblical knowledge in, history, literature and current events. In one segment, players try to differentiate “the Word of the Lord” from “the Lord of the Rings” and identify whether a character comes from the Bible or Star Wars. “We find ways to open up the biblical word to references that I think make it easy to relate to,” Dunbar said. “We had fun with the content, never poking fun at the content.” Dunbar is chief content officer of Odyssey Networks, which co-produces the show and has produced Hallmark Channel films based on Christian novels like Angela Hunt’s “The Note” and Beverly Lewis’ “The Shun-

ning.” The show brings together the religious message of the multifaith Odyssey Networks, the storytelling of “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” producer Tom Forman, and the technical expertise of Embassy Row, which produced “The Glee Project” and “The Newlywed Game.” Religion-themed television can be a gamble for networks. ABC canceled “GCB” after its unpopular inaugural season. Based on a novel my Kim Gatlin, the show garnered controversy for its title and raunchy depictions of Christian women. National Geographic Channel’s “American Colony: Meet the Hutterites” was accused of exploiting the Montana Anabaptist faith community, first by Hutterites outside the colony, and later by colony leaders. But some shows with religious themes have staying power. Episodes of “7th Heaven,” a show about a family with a minister father, spanned a decade.

Internet Photo

Jeff Foxworthy hosts GSN’s new Bible-themed game show. Producers face an interesting challenge in creating a Christian game show for an American audience. A 2010 Pew survey found atheists and agnostics, Jews and Mormons showed the highest levels of overall religious knowledge in the United States. Mormons scored highest on specific biblical knowledge, followed by white evangelical Protestants, atheists and agnostics, black Protestants, and Jews. White mainline Protestants and Catholics scored the lowest.

A poll by the American Bible Society -- which sponsors the show -- found 85 percent of Americans own a Bible. About one-quarter read the Bible several times a week or every day. However, the same percentage never reads it. The majority reads the Bible less than once a month. Readers of the New International Version (NIV) translation might want to play along -- it’s the official Bible of the show. Viewers can catch “The American Bible Challenge” Thursdays at 8 p.m. on GSN.

Poll finds division in views of Muslims

Internet Photo

The Tulsa Islamic Center is a cultural hub for Muslim Oklahomans. Religion News Service Americans are almost evenly divided in how they view Muslims, according to a survey released Aug. 23 by the Arab American Institute in Washington. But the online survey, which also gauged views on Mormons, Jews, Catholics, evangelicals, Buddhists and Hindus also found a striking generational gap and significant differences between political groups. “The American Divide: How We View Arabs And Muslims” found that 41 percent of Americans had unfavorable views of Muslims, compared to 40

percent who held favorable views. That’s an improvement from 2010, when another Arab American Institute survey found that 55 percent of Americans viewed Muslims unfavorably, compared to 35 percent with favorable views. The latest poll surveyed 1,052 people between Aug. 15-16. Professor Jack Levin, co-director of the Center on Violence and Conflict at Northeastern University, attributed the spike in anti-Muslim sentiment in 2010 to protests against a proposed Islamic center near Ground Zero. “That effect has been fading over

12 • Friday, Aug. 31, 2012 • THE ORACLE

time,” Levin said. In 2003, 47 percent of Americans viewed Muslims favorably compared to 32 percent who did not. More than half of Republicans viewed Muslims and Arabs in general unfavorably in the latest poll, though their opinions improved when asked about Muslim Americans and Arab Americans in particular. Among Democrats, 29 percent had unfavorable views of Muslims and Arabs, 37 percent had unfavorable views of Mormons, and 22 percent had unfavorable views of evangelical Christians. While Muslims were generally viewed more unfavorably than other faiths, they did fare better than some groups among younger demographics. For example, 34 percent of 18- to 29-year-olds viewed Muslims unfavor-

ably, 37 percent viewed Mormons unfavorably, and 35 percent had unfavorable views of evangelicals. Younger Americans gave Christian groups in general an approval rating about 20 percentage points lower than seniors 65 years and older. “Young people have traditionally been more liberal in their religious and political thinking,” Levin said. Nearly a quarter of Americans had unfavorable views of Sikhs, compared to 35 percent of Republicans. The report, which had a margin of error of 3.1 percent, also found that 42 percent of Americans thought Muslims could do a good job in government, while 32 percent said they could not because their loyalty was suspect. Nearly six in 10 Americans said they don’t know a Muslim compared to three

SPORTS

Women’s soccer preview By Amber Smith Although summer has ended, there were those who tolerated the extensive heat and hours of practice to dedicate their hearts, “soles” and summer to the sport they love. Under the leadership of head coach Ryan Bush and assistant coaches Roger Bush and Randy Williams, ORU’s women’s soccer team is prepared for another challenging and rewarding season. “Our goal is to continue to excel defensively, to generate more offense and ultimately to win a conference championship at the beginning of

November,” Bush said. After losing 11 players to injuries last year, the remaining athletes gritted their teeth and came out fifth in the Summit League. The Lady Golden Eagles had a season record of 7 wins, 10 losses and 2 ties. All the athletes have returned this year, and the team is equipped with the needed power to drive their attacks on the field. With more driving power on the offense, a legacy of tough defense and a strong bond of unity, the team is confidenct that this season is going to be one to remember.

Whitney Booth is a senior midfielder from California.

New Faces and Promising Talent diligence were evident on and off the field, earning her the athletic trainer award all four years of her high school career. She also earned a spot on the Heart of America Classic 2011 All-Tournament Team.

Ashley Martin- Freshman From Union High School in Tulsa, Martin displayed strong command on the field, earning her the role of team captain, as well as many other titles, which include: All-Metro, AllConference and varsity player of the year. From racking up goals to assisting in the journey to the Southland Conference championship, she plans to help her new team in many ways.

Kayla Keller- Freshman A Tulsa native and graduate of Regent Preparatory School, Keller has been involved in extensive training in the world of sports. In high school, she competed in soccer, volleyball and basketball. Known for her outstanding performances on the soccer field, Keller intends to use her experience and skills to enhance an already promising team this season.

Maddie Rhodes- Freshman Also a graduate from Union High School, Rhodes helped lead her team to a runner-up finish at the OSSAA State Championship in both 2010 and 2011. Her determination and

Official Preseason Team Rankings 1. Stephen F. Austin 2. Lamar 3. Southeastern Louisiana 4. Sam Houston State 5. Oral Roberts 6. Northwestern State

Photos by Austin St. John

Junior Jennifer Abernathy started 17 matches in 2011.

Jordan Parsons played in 10 matches last year.

Just a few facts to start the season off right: • For those freshmen out there who are still getting acquainted with everything ORU, this year will be ORU’s first year in the Southland Conference • Jennifer Abernathy and Lauren Parks were named to the 2012

7. McNeese State 8. Central Arkansas 9. Nicholls State

All-Southland Conference Preseason Second Team • The players and coaches are taking full advantage of ORU’s new practice field that is part of the Case Soccer Complex

THE ORACLE • Friday, Aug. 31, 2012 • 13

Men’s soccer team gears up, remains in Summit League By Billy Burke When senior Alex Hart climbed the incline that stretches past the Aerobics Center and leads to the Case Soccer Complex, he saw a gleaming multi-million dollar facility. Instead of bulldozers pushing mounds of dirt behind one of the goals, a new practice facility sits with grass as cool as the other side of the pillow. “After being here for three years and going into my final year, it’s great to see the improvement that the soccer complex has undergone,” Hart said. However, in a season with more change that ORU athletics has seen in decades, the men’s soccer team remains unscathed. When ORU made the conference shift from the Summit League

SUMMIT LEAGUE

PRESEASON RANKINGS 1. Western Illinois 2. UMKC 3. Oakland 4. Oral Roberts 6. Fort Wayne 7. Eastern Illinois 8. Omaha to the Southland Conference, there was a catch 22; they have no men’s soccer. So abiding by NCAA rules, the Golden Eagles were able to remain in the Summit League to continue play-

Notable Newcomers # 24 Alex White (MF) White has the credentials to be a star. He led both his high school and club teams in points. He was the team captain and an AllConference selection for three of the years four he was in high school. This guy is also as clutch as they come. In his first varsity game he scored the game-winning goal. He could be a valuable offensive addition for the Eagles.

ing soccer. Coming into the season, ORU is picked to place fourth in the conference, with zero first-place votes. Freshman Alex White isn’t fazed by the lack of confidence being shown in his team that made it to the conference championship last year. “I’m hungry, and I speak for the team when I say, we’re hungry,” White said. “We want nothing less than to win the conference championship.” When asked why, White didn’t hesitate to explain. “We have the talent and the chemistry to do it, too. These guys are my brothers, the upper classmen and the freshmen thrive together. I wouldn’t rather be on any other team.

By Billy Burke

#21 Chris Kroeze (MF) How many schools can say they have a guy who was the Mississippi Children’s Museum Youth Ambassador? On top of having a heart of gold (ladies beware) he can straight up dance on the field. While being captain for three years in high school, he also earned All-District and All-State honors while racking up 35 goals in three years varsity.

14 • Friday, Aug. 31, 2012 • THE ORACLE

#6 Tyler Hill (MF) There’s nothing like home cooking, and with Hill being born and raised in Broken Arrow, this midfielder could prove to be as valuable as a pie your grandmother bakes. During his senior year, this guy scored 12 goals and 10 assists, earning AllAcademic, All-Conference and All-State honors. And he’s a smart cookie, graduating in the top 20 percent.

Research Participants Needed in a Brain Imaging Study of Depression The Laureate Institute for Brain Research in Tulsa, Okla. is currently recruiting participants for a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) study of depression. Participants must have been diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder. We are also recruiting healthy individuals and individuals with Anorexia Nervosa. Participant Requirements: • Female • Ages 14 to 25 • No history of an eating disorder • Body Mass Index of 18.5 to 25.0 • No psychiatric medications within 3 weeks of scanning (6 weeks for Prozac); participants will NOT be asked to stop current medications. • Right-handed • Native English speaker

Compensation is provided for time and effort related to participation.

For more information, please call:

(918)502-5100 6655 S. Yale Ave. Tulsa, OK 74136-3329

ORU’s new coaches have high expectations By David Dawson Summer proved to be a season of change for ORU. Renovations aside, change has also come to some of the sports teams. The men’s and women’s tennis teams, baseball team and women’s basketball team all have new head coaches. ORU sports fans have reason to be excited as all the new coaches bring histories of success.

Mark Milner Men’s Tennis

Change was inevitable for the men’s tennis team after a one-win season. On July 18, Mark Milner was named head tennis coach. Milner formerly coached men’s and women’s tennis at Metropolitan State University of Denver. Both teams made the NCAA Division II Tournament in

2009. The men’s team went undefeated in Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference matches and Mark Milner made the round of 16 in the NCAA tournament in that year. Milner showed off his coaching abilities when one of his players won the ITA Central Region Singles Championships in the past two seasons.

Beverly Dawson

Women’s Tennis On July 13, Beverly Dawson was named the head tennis coach of the women’s team. Dawson was formerly the head tennis coach at Holy Cross University in Australia. After Australia, Dawson spent time

miliar with ORU and has spent the last nine seasons as ORU’s top baseball assistant coach, mainly Beverly Dawson Ryan Folmar Misti Cussen working with the offense. ORU coaching at a couple of other won the Summit universities before beginning League Championship each of youth training in Plano, Texas. the nine seasons Folmar was While there, Dawson proved with the team and also adshe can bring the best out of vanced to NCAA regional play players by coaching nine playeach season. Folmar has proven ers who went on to play college he is one of the best hitting tennis at the Division I level. coaches in college baseball. His offense led the Summit League Ryan Folmar in hits and home runs last seaMen’s Baseball son. Coach Folmar said in an ORU’s new baseball head interview that his experience coach brings experience and with the team makes it easier familiarity to the team. On to work with coaches and the June 13, Ryan Folmar was department. He also said “exannounced as head coach of the baseball team. Folmar is fa- pectations are extremely high.”

Misti Cussen

Women’s Basketball Misti Cussen was named the head coach of the women’s basketball team on April 27. Like Coach Folmar, Cussen brings years of experience with ORU. She spent the last 16 seasons as ORU’s top women’s basketball assistant coach. Cussen helped coach the team to five Summit League tournament titles, two Summit League regular season titles and five trips to the NCAA tournament. The team experienced five seasons where they won 20 games or more. Throughout her time as assistant coach, Cussen coached 49 conference players of the week, 5 conference newcomers of the year and two conference defensive players of the year.

Fantasy football: Here’s your cheat sheet By Billy Burke The world of sports is about to enter its best stretch. Baseball heating up, college football and NFL kicking off, the world simply becomes a better place. And for the handful of people who call themselves disciples of the game instead of fans, Fantasy football, the cream of all the fantasy sports, has arrived. Before you make your draft board or assemble your sleepers and duds, here’s a cheat sheet that’s sure to help your team grab imaginary gridiron glory. QB - Matt Schaub, Houston Texans. Avg. Round (12) I cannot grasp a reality where Schaub is a sleeper. But coming off an injury from last season, he is poised to make a dangerous impact. Schaub has to prove he can stay healthy, but he is a steal if you can grab him in double digit rounds. QB - Alex Smith, San Francisco 49ers. Avg. Round (13) Get this man a new contract! Alex

Smith finally had the year that prospectors had been praying for. With the addition of Randy Moss, he has a shiny new redzone toy. Smith isn’t going to blow your mind; he is efficient and consistent If you need a solid guy in later rounds because you missed out on a high profile QB or need a great backup to play match-ups, Smith is your guy. RB - Willis McGahee, Denver Broncos. Avg. Round (10) I don’t care if Manning is in Mile High or not; the Broncos will need to run the ball if they want to win, and McGahee is the best pure running back Manning has ever had. He is a bruiser who can take regular snaps, and he makes the grass bleed inside the 20s. Any running back who is getting 30+ carries isn’t going to last long term. Manning may be riding in as Denver’s General, but McGahee is the stallion who is going to carry the load. WR - Reggie Wayne, Indianapolis Colts. Avg. Round (10)

Seeing Wayne’s name in a sleeper column will probably surprise you as much as me, but here he is. Andrew Luck looked solid in his first preseason game, though that’s not enough to go off of alone. Wayne looks to take the lion’s share of targets and, with a little Luck (get ready for those puns), some redzone grabs. He has been one of the league’s best receivers, and he deserves your respect, commish. No, Manning won’t be throwing his way, but he is wearing a horseshoe on his head, and that has to count for something. TE -Jermaine Gresham, Cincinnati Bengals. Avg. Round (13) This guy has been a freak athlete since he was drafted. But being bogged down in Cincy before last year will definitely take a toll on performance. This year? Don’t count on it. With Andy Dalton leading the charge, Gresham looks to build on last year’s solid season. Plus, Dalton can only go up, and Gresham is just itching to hitch a ride.

THE ORACLE • Friday, Aug. 31, 2012 • 15

T:5.125” S:5.125”

Drama dept. throwing a “Picnic” in Howard

Sophomore Caroline Sorunke mans the sign-up table at auditions for “Picnic.”

16 • Friday, Aug. 31, 2012 • THE ORACLE

“We’re here

to make college easier.”

Agent Access

Agent Answers

Agent Alerts

Well, maybe just your banking. At Commerce Bank, we’re working behind the scenes to save you some time ... and a little money, too. A myDirect Student Checking Account helps you: • Bank online and on your phone • Get email alerts to keep track of your account • Use any Commerce ATM without fees Stop by our branch on or near campus today and sign up. It’s a whole lot easier than a pop quiz.

8/8/12 1:32 PM

T:11.125”

Photo by Ben Garrett

In preparation for the performance, the show’s director, Courtneay Sanders, journeyed with her cast to the birthplace of the playwright: Independence, Kan. There they toured the house in which the play was set, reflected at the gravesite of William Inge, strolled through the downtown Independence area and even perused the Independence City Museum. It was in the museum that they were able to deeply explore the history and modern-day growth of the town. The cast even had a chance to examine original yearbooks from the ‘50s, catching a glimpse of the life during that decade. “The reason I took my cast to Kansas was so that they could see what this town really felt like,” said Sanders. “I really wanted them to take from this experience how isolated this little town was. I was hoping that they were able to find within themselves how they felt about the environment, the town, the house, and the simple life that this play represents. ” The show runs the last weekend of September, and tickets will be sold at the door. With all the preparation being put into this meaningful, heartfelt and fun show, it is sure to be a hit with student audiences.

B:11.125”

ful for the chance. I’m expecting a great work process and to grow as an actor at each rehearsal.” Other players in this performance include: Lia Jennings as Helen Potts, a hospitable neighbor; Grace Stump as Millie Owens, a 16-year-old girl; Zachary Sherwood as Bomber, the paperboy; Shannon Garcia as Madge Owens, a beautiful girl; Kelsey Carroll as Flo Owens, mother of Madge and Millie; Danna Leary as Rosemary Sydney, a school teacher; Sam Hunt as Alan Seymour, boyfriend of Madge; Aly Reagan as Irma Kronkite, a school teacher; Koreen McClain as Christine Schoenwalder, a schoolteacher, and Chris Daniels as Howard Beavens, a friend of Miss Sydney.

S:11.125”

By Chelsey Butler The ORU theater department is kicking off its 2012-13 season with a bang by staging “Picnic.” The drama by William Inge will be performed Sept. 27 to 30 in ORU’s Howard Auditorium. “Picnic” follows the story of two households in 1953. The show takes place in rural Kansas, set specifically in the playwright’s boyhood home. Everyone in the story is preparing for the local Labor Day picnic, when the entire community is shaken up by the arrival of a strange yet charming newcomer, Hal Carter, played by junior theatre arts major, Will Acker. “Hal is definitely the stud in this play,” Acker said. “It’s a great opportunity to be cast as him, and I am very thank-

The Fresh Market opens first store in Tulsa Organic, specialty grocer offers alternative choices for healthy dining, shopping just 3 miles from campus. By Meghan Drake ORU students are always looking for a chic place to get some food, especially organic, local food. Instead of driving down to Brookside or the Blue Dome District, venture instead to The Fresh Market, located 3 miles east of campus. For returning students or Tulsa natives, the grocer replaced Borders Bookstore on June 27. Never heard of The Fresh Market? Just imagine a grocery store that only plays classical music and has staff in green aprons ready to serve you. From

dried kiwi to an array of fresh trail mix, The Fresh Market boasts organic manna from heaven for every snack junkie. Primarily based on the East Coast, with its headquarters in Greensboro, N.C., the chain is beginning to branch out into Oklahoma, with Tulsa being the company’s first location. The Fresh Marker motto is all about the “food experience.” Employees offer greetings throughout the shopping experience. After checking out, a staff member clad in green apron, assists customers to their car and returns shopping carts. Cooking aficionados are particularly welcome at The Fresh Market. Kyle Lobue, a frequent customer who cooked reguarly in college, said he suggests The Fresh Market to those who enjoy the art of cuisine. Lobue called the selection of foods “pricey” but “local” and “fresh.”

For commuters or students brave enough to battle the kitchens in the dorms, The Fresh Market provides a new store in Tulsa to buy fresh ingredients. For other students who eat primarily in Saga or other dining options on campus, The Fresh Market has numerous pre-made food options and a salad bar. A favorite, however, is the long tables adorned with fresh candies, nuts and trail mixes. Banana bonanza mix, Chocolate Berry Blues and crispy green bean chips are just a few of the delicious snack choices. You may be familiar with Whole Foods located on 41st and Peoria. It offers similar food options with fresh produce and organic choices. Being the two dominate organic, boutique grocery stores in town, it is easy to place them in a rivalry. Terri Holmes and her son, an Okla-

homa State University student, recently came to The Fresh Market for the first time and took in the atmosphere. Her son told her that it didn’t have the “crunchy granola effect” that Whole Foods does. She explained he feels like a hippy when in Whole Foods because of the overabundance of organic and vegan products. They said that The Fresh Market felt more like a regular grocery store, although a nice, regular grocery store. Holmes said that it was a “little pricey,” but she is sure to come again because of the “good variety” and “excellent quality.” Whether looking for a salad to go or a quick chocolate remedy, The Fresh Market has something for everyone. Located at 81st and Yale, The Fresh Market is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., except on Sundays when the store closes at 8 p.m.

Photo by Sami Prichard

Located only 3 miles from campus at 81st and Yale, The Fresh Market is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., closing at 8 p.m. Sundays. The East Coast franchise opened its first Oklahoma store in Tulsa on June 27.

THE ORACLE • Friday, Aug. 31, 2012 • 17

The Vanguard is located in the Blue Dome district of downtown Tulsa and hosts a variety of concerts from indie to rock styles.

Photo by Stephen Salmon

Concert venues in Tulsa offer variety for all By Jessica Sherwood Looking for a place to relax and sip a cup of coffee while listening to live music? Tired of not being able to jam out in the dorms or turn up your music full volume? Check out one of Tulsa’s many diverse concert venues and sit back, relax and enjoy the show. Tulsa offers a variety of concert venues both large and small that cater to each individual’s preference of atmosphere and style of music. Cain’s Ballroom draws in large crowds every week, offering a variety of bands. Cain’s originally started as a garage in the mid-’20s and was later transformed into a dime-a-dance joint until it became famous for what it is today – one of the top performance venues in Tulsa. This venue is open for all ages, and tickets are general admission with standing room only. Located in Tulsa’s historic downtown, Cain’s Ballroom offers a unique experience. Look online at www.cainsballroom.com for upcoming artists such as August Burns Red playing Thursday, Sept. 27. Close in proximity to Cain’s Ballroom is the Crystal Pistol Saloon. The Crystal Pistol also provides a variety of music genres such as indie, hip-hop,

rock and pop. The environment is casual with both indoor seating and an outdoor patio. Tickets range from $10 to $15 and some nights there is free admission, but it is limited to patrons age 21 and up. Find out more information on The Crystal Pistol Saloon’s Facebook page. The Vanguard is another small music venue allowing more of a personal connection to up and coming artists. Vanguard is located between Cain’s Ballroom and Brady Theater. Most concerts are open for all ages and vary from indie to rock. This venue offers both floor and balcony seating. Prices begin at $7 and Internet Photo increase depending on Cain’s has been a Tulsa icon since the 1920s. the artist or band. of activities such as open-mic nights, comedy nights and music from local Agora Coffeehouse provides a bands. They sell specialty coffees as well cozy atmosphere while offering live as lunch and dinner food items. music. Agora Coffeehouse hours are Monday through Thursday 9 a.m. to At the Tulsa Performing Arts Cen9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday 9 a.m. ter, explore musicals, plays and concerts to 11 p.m. Agora brews an assortment

18 • Friday, Aug. 31, 2012 • THE ORACLE

from larger venues. The PAC is located downtown at 110 E. 2nd St. Upcoming events can be found online at tulsapac. com. Attire is generally casual to business causal, depending on the event taking place. Book tickets in advance as they sell out fast. Los Cabos operates as both a restaurant and small concert setting. Los Cabos is located in Broken Arrow as well as conveniently on the Riverwalk in Jenks. The restaurant has live music as well as Mexican food. It is a casual dining environment with both indoor and outdoor seating. Enjoy the summer night air and support local bands while enjoying a taste of Mexican food and culture. Shades of Brown Coffee Shop is located on Brookside near other Tulsa attractions such as Purple Glaze Studio and In The Raw Sushi. Shades of Brown is open seven days a week, and admission is always free. This coffee shop supports both local artwork and musicians. Snuggle up with a cup of chai tea and listen to local bands play. Whether the urge to sing out loud is taking over, or you need to relax and wind down, find the Tulsa concert venue that best suits you.

MUSE

Subjectively Objective: Walking the tightrope magnificent. It was painfully ally walked around pantsless, Fond Parisien. This is problematic, yet it awesome—wonderfully appall- while in London I’d walk by is the way society encourages ing. My summer was good, in mannequins wearing clothes the most balanced sense of the so expensive they could feed a us to think. When faced with word. Haitian village for a year. opposing scenarios, we’re told Indeed, the last days the solution is to love one It’s as if truth is a tightrope and hate the other. This is of my break were spent seen in everything from in London, soaking up some of the most that we all attempt to walk across. our favorite sports teams beautiful architectural to our political party afand historical sites known I remember viewing the filiation, to even our own biblical interpretation. to man. golden interior decorations We have explored the At times though, it was and medieval paintings inside depths of science, philosophy hard to enjoy the scope of this London’s Windsor Castle and and nearly every other intelbeauty because images from thinking to myself, “A human the beginning of my sumis not fit to live here.” In Haiti, lectual question known to man, mer were still seared into the I can remember peeking inside yet we remain novices in one essential concept: balance. corners of my mind. Ten weeks a small dirt and clay hut a I certainly don’t believe that prior to when I walked the woman lived in and thinking a synthesis of two opposing imperial streets of London, the same thing. arguments always leads to the I trekked through the dusty When processing the scope truth. roads of Fond Parisien, Haiti, of my summer I’m frequently Throughout history, howon a two-week mission trip. tempted to place one experiever, it is clear that humans The juxtaposition of these ence over the other. My nature have consistently taken various two trips was almost frightentells me to either cherish the aspects of truth and warped ing, and the contrast between simplicity of Fond Parisien them into opposing extremes. the two cities was virtually and condemn the extravaFrom obesity to anorexia, endless. In Haiti, my mission gance of London, or cherish socialism to capitalism, leteam drove by villages where the extravagance of London galism to undisciplined free some of the children literand condemn the simplicity of

‘‘

By Nathan Porter One of the primary questions students are asked during the first days of school is always, “How was your summer?” Over the past 16 years I’ve become accustomed to the formality in which this question is asked and the triteness in which it is answered. This year, however, I’ve found those four simple words to be particularly difficult to respond to. The only answer I feel compelled to give is vague, ambiguous and yields little clarity to the subject. My summer was horribly

”

will—it’s all the same. We have become slaves to extremes and strangers to balance. It’s as if truth is a tightrope that we all attempt to walk across. As one tiptoes forward and overcompensates to the left and falls off, another overcompensates to the right and follows suit, until eventually it becomes a cyclical pattern of humiliation. We could settle this and conclude that all of humanity is intellectually uncoordinated to some extent; yet surely the pursuit of wholeness should lead to some sort of steady treading. While perfect equilibrium is practically impossible, let’s not give up hope too soon. I’ve heard rumors of a man who managed to be a lion yet a lamb, a king yet a servant, a master yet a friend, and the very beginning yet the very end. It would be nice if we attempted to follow suit.

10 study tips to help you get through your freshman year So far this semester you have probably made new friends, gotten to know your roommate and adapted to the new environment -- or maybe not. The first year of college can be difficult as you learn to function on your own and work to get that degree. Here are 10 tips from recent ORU graduate, Happiness Kisoso, that will help make your freshman year a bit easier:

1. Build good study habits.

This will help you not cram at the last minute.

2. Get involved in extra-curricular activities.

These activities often help you find out what you’re good at outside of your major.

3. Take notes in class.

there both physically and mentally.

4. Meet your floormates and the students

8. Find your ideal place to study.

It will help you do better on the test and quizzes.

around you.

Make new friends and meet people. Oftentimes your college friends end up being lifelong friends.

5. Learn time management.

It’s hard to try and do everything when you don’t have enough time to do it.

6. Form or find a study group.

I know for me, science has never been my strongest subject. I joined a study group, and it helped me better understand the class, as well as pass my exams.

7. Listen in class.

This can be hard with lack of sleep, but try to be

Whether you enjoy studying at the library, next to Hava Java or at Nords, find a place, because you will be using this often.

9. Know your professors.

They will help you with everything.

10. Don’t overschedule.

Have time for sleep, reading, relaxing, studying, etc. Happiness Kisoso is a native of Kenya who recently earned a bachelor’s degree in media with a concentration in public relations. She now lives in Austin, Texas.

THE ORACLE • Friday, Aug. 31, 2012 • 19

Photos by Austin St. John

Clockwise from top left: Wes Hill, a member of the ORU Worship Center, sings to the crowd. Director Jonathan Swindal plays to the audience. Director of Student Experience Aaron Brown ministers to an audience member.

20 • Friday, Aug. 31, 2012 • THE ORACLE

By Amy Lecza The ORU Worship Center, formerly known as IWC, has released its first live album in five years. “Come Like a Flood” was unveiled Aug. 15 during a concert in Christ’s Chapel. The recently rebranded organization, headed by director Jonathan Swindal and assistant director Daniel Tsubota, hopes that its unique sound, which has been influenced by worship favorites like Hillsong United, Gungor, Desperation Band and Kari Jobe, will impact the current generation. “I believe that one of the most important reasons that our music ministry is so effective is that our programs and songs are from the students for this generation,” said Tsubota. “What’s great about our music is that it is so often based from how we’ve seen God move on the mission field.” Tsubota stressed the importance of the ORU Worship Center developing its own unique sound . “ We’re worshiping, and missioning and then because of that worshiping some more and it’s a fantastic cycle,” he said. “Our songwriters and production staff aren’t “trying to be relevant” to this generation, because we ARE this generation, and there’s something extremely effective about that.”