Oral Roberts University · March 27, 2015 Tulsa, Oklahoma · Vol 49, No. 12 www.oruoracle.com @oruoracle @oruoraclesports
BREAKING DOWN WALLS Photo courtesy of Mark Moore
University begins multi-million dollar renovation project to implement unpresidented technology usage PAGE 4
The Most Interesting Man at ORU As if owning a town and space on the moon weren’t enough, he’s just getting started. PAGE 10
Rolling Into the Weekend Sequeira and redhot team are ready for Omaha. PAGE 12
Tornados Terrorize Tulsa Multiple funnel clouds bring university and surrounding areas to a hault. PAGE 3
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“Ender’s Game” author will speak at ORU for Sci-Fi convention
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FEATURES Remember the Titans? PAGE 18
News
Tornado drives ORU students to shelters David Sauer Sports Editor
Tornados swept through the Tulsa and Sand Springs areas Wednesday evening, forcing ORU students and administrators to seek shelter around campus. The severe weather started just before 5 p.m. when the first severe thunderstorm warning was issued for Tulsa County. Winds of up to 85 mph were reported in Tulsa as well as a major hailstorm downtown. The storm was reported to have softball size hail before reaching Sand Springs and Tulsa. The storm brought heavy rainfall across the Tulsa area and on the ORU campus, and frequent lightening strikes. A tornado warning was issued for Tulsa County at 5:14 p.m. The tornado first touched down over Lake Keystone around 5:27 p.m. and moved east into the Sand Springs area. The funnel was reported to be a half-mile wide. It reached Sand Springs around 5:35 p.m. At that time tornado
sirens began going off in the Tulsa metro area. Students were sent to shelter around 6:15 p.m. when circulation began in the clouds near campus. “At first I was really shocked because I didn’t think we were going to have a tornado or rain because it was beautiful out,” sophomore Emily Tackett said. “I wasn’t worried at all [when the sirens went off ] because the weather didn’t seem like tornado weather. The hall directors evacuated us from Saga and I went to Zoppelt.” Sand Springs was hit the hardest by the storm. A mobile home park located near 145th West Avenue and U.S. Highway 51 was destroyed. The Tulsa County Sheriff ’s Office reported one person killed from the mobile home park. Three residents were rushed to the hospital, two of which are in critical condition. A Daylight Donut shop on 177th West Avenue just off U.S. Highway 412 was also destroyed. Aim High Academy, a gymnastics
Photo by Samuel Levi
A funnel cloud forms over a neighborhood at 51st Street and Union Avenue. center located at 45th West Avenue and Charles Page Boulevard, had the roof collapse over the main gym floor. There were 60 students taking shelter in the basement at the time. All of them survived unharmed. The tornado moved through the Sand Springs area before lifting over Tulsa. ORU student Adam Giedd said he saw a funnel cloud to the left of Michael behind upper lot. The tornado cleared the Tulsa area by 7 p.m. and students were given the all clear to leave shelters. Students and faculty across campus had very different reactions to the storm issues. Many sought shelCourtesy photos
ter upon hearing sirens while others wanted to brave the weather. “As soon as I walked outside I heard the sirens,” junior Kyle Sterk said. “My first thought was to go watch the tornado. I’m from Texas and anytime there is a storm we go watch it. We watched from the EMR stairwell and saw a couple rotations in the clouds over us. I was mesmerized by it, it was really cool.” Students made the best of the hour or so they spent stuck in shelter areas by watching weather or interacting with friends. “Life was good in Zoppelt auditorium,” said Christi Sleiman. “We had one TV going with the weather, another one blank for those who would rather not know, and a whole separate room where we could watch The Office minus the sound. The hall director decided to veto a game of “twister.” Over 31,000 people were without power in Tulsa County on Wednesday night, and Sand Springs schools remained closed through Thursday.
ORU Board of Trustees takes shelter in the Oracle newsroom after being forced out of its spring meetings Wednesday evening. From left to right: Board Chair Rob Hoskins, Laura Brash Bishop, Athletic Director Mike Carter, President William M. Wilson and other members of the ORU Board of Trustees and President’s Cabinet. THE ORACLE • Friday, March 27, 2015 • 3
Sydney ilg Staff Writer
Photos by Kristy Sturgill
Left: ORU President William M. Wilson introduces plans for technology being integrated into the Global Learning Center during the wall breaking ceremony. Right: Adam Giedd, Bennet Sibert and Augustine Mendoza finish taking their swings at the wall breaking ceremony for the new Global Learning Center.
Multi-million dollar campus renovations begin Kristy Sturgill Editor-in-Chief
Oral Roberts University began a $7.5 million renovation of the baby Mabee Wednesday afternoon. The renovations will transform the facility into a high-tech Global Learning Center set to open next spring. “We are committed to making this one of the highest technology facilities in higher education in Oklahoma and the surrounding states, and we believe God is going to help us do that,” said President William M. Wilson. “We are going to raise up global leaders for the globalized world in the 21st century.” Board members, faculty, staff and students participated in the official “wall breaking” ceremony by taking sledge hammers to a designated wall. The Global Learning Center will contain 10 new classrooms, 12 new offices, a 700-seat performance studio, upstairs studio, an augmented reality and virtual reality learning facility and a facility to develop online video content. All of this will supplement the goal of opening satellite campuses around the world. “We will have the ability to take the best of ORU to the world and the best of the world to ORU,” said Dean of Online and Lifelong Learning Sergio Matviuk. According to the building plans, the third floor will contain an iCube, which will project 4D images, allowing students to have a more immersed educational experience. Opportunities such as flight 4 • THE ORACLE • Friday, March 27, 2015
simulation will be offered. More than 7,000 academic subjects can be viewed by students in a live and interactive format. “The library will take a student into an ocean for instance, not only do you study about dolphins and whales, but you literally immerse into the studies as they swim around you,” said Wilson. During the event, a student-operated robot traveled the room showcasing the possibility of distance learners having the capability to travel the building virtually as they participate in classes. “I like how they are involving more of the new innovative technology with the campus and that there will be another new building to hold classes in as well as make learning a fun experience with the augmented virtual reality,” said senior Zach Smith. The renovations for the baby Mabee will be a debt-free endeavor. “Using this building instead of building a new one saves millions of dollars, and that is good stewardship,” said Professor Cal Easterling. The Global Learning is a part of the 50th Anniversary Comprehensive Campaign, which will include a total of $50 million invested in academic growth and exapansion over the next three years. Other campus enhancements include replacing existing tennis courts with a state-of-the-art tennis complex, building on-campus apartment-style residences and the a new outdoor track.
Chief Information Officer Michael Mathews shares the stage with a smartphone-controlled robot.The robot will allow distance learners to take part in an interactive learning environment.
December grad loses life to edible marijuana
Courtesy photo
Luke Goodman is the third documented suicide in Colorado that resulted after an overconsumption of edible marijuana. According to family, Goodman injested five times the recommended amount of the “candy” marijuana and succumbed to extreme hallucinations and paranoia.
JJ Johnson News editor Luke Goodman, a recent ORU graduate, died on Sunday, March 22 from a self-inflicted gunshot after ingesting edible marijuana. His life is being remembered in the same way as his smile: bright, loving and true. “It didn’t matter who you were, he always reached out to you,” cousin and best friend Sam Fowler said. The Goodman and Fowler boys grew up in Tulsa, just down the street from each other. Cousins in name but brothers in life, the group of men were knitted by love and years. The sudden loss of Goodman has been cause for mourning but also reflection and celebration. “Everyone who has reached out to us has said ‘Luke really impacted me in the last year and I really felt love from him,’” Sam Fowler said. “Quirky” and fun loving, Goodman was no stranger to adventure. He was snowboarding with family on the
mountain slopes of Colorado the week he passed away. Toward the end of the vacation, he consumed a highly concentrated dose of “candy” marijuana. The drugs overwhelmed him and led to his death by a self-inflicted gunshot. The family hesitates to label his death a suicide. “He was very happy, on fire for God spiritually more than ever,” said relative Daisha Fowler. “The drugs are what led him to do this.” Facebook tributes from friends and family paint a picture of a life well lived. Dozens of poems, letters and pictures memorialize a man who brought joy into seemingly every life he touched. “We all thought there was more to live here on earth but apparently your eternity commenced today,” Sam Fowler wrote on Luke Goodman’s Facebook wall. “I weep for our loss but I rejoice for your freedom, go and dance with our Father.”
Science conference to host ‘Ender’s Game’ author JJ Johnson News Editor ORU will host a Science and Science Fiction Conference in April 17-18. Professors, alumni and current students will speak at the event organized by ORU’s Dr. Andrew Lang and Dr. Mark Hall. Orson Scott Card, renowned author of the 1985-hit novel “Ender’s Game,” will be the keynote speaker. “Probably for about 10 years, I’ve been trying to get him to come as a guest speaker,” Lang said. “This year he is willing to come to ORU, which is actually a pretty big deal.” Card plans to speak twice. His first hour-long talk covers the art of writing science fiction. His second discusses a trilogy of science fiction books written by C.S. Lewis. The prolific author has published more than 70 novels and short stories, not including his various short story collections. Among these are more than 20 works set in the universe of “Ender” and three novels in the “Women in Genesis” series. The academic conference will be no “ComicCon.” More than 30 academics from around the world are scheduled to speak on various topics sur-
rounding the world of science fiction. The program guide includes guest professors as well as an assortment of ORU faculty, alumni and current students. Sophomore Josie Halsmer co-wrote a paper with Dr. Dominic Halsmer to be presented at the conference. “Our paper topic speaks about Hollywood’s current obsession with the evolution of conscious robots as further evidence for the argument for theism,” Josie Halsmer said. “It is our job as Christians to bring light to dark situations and encourage the mind’s curiosity to ask the hard questions that will lead us closer to the Lord.” Lang and Hall previously hosted a similar conference spurred on by a visit from one of their favorite science fiction authors, Joan Slonczewski. The pair were teaching on Slonczewski’s writing in their course “Science and the Imagination.” Various science fiction works are presented in the class and students discuss the literary value and scientific plausibility of each. When the author came to Oklahoma, the professors decided to create a one-time academic conference with her as the keynote speaker. Lang and Hall did not plan to hold a second one. When the opportunity to host Card came along, they
Courtesy Photo Orson Scott Card took it. In addition to bolstering ORU’s academic reputation, they hope this second conference will benefit a variety of groups. “Not only do [our students] get to interact with Orson Scott Card, they actually get experience presenting at a academic conference,” Lang said. “The talks that will be presented at the science fiction conference will be accessible to everybody.” The ORU Science and Science Fiction Conference will be held April 17-18 in the Graduate Center [GC]. Admission to the conference is free. For more information, visit sciencefiction.oru.edu.
THE ORACLE • Friday, March 27, 2015 • 5
FEATURES
On being Earnest Reflections from a showcase amateur Jordan Jones
Contributing Writer
Who would have ever thought that a convergence journalism major, with dreams of becoming a sportscaster, would be performing in a theatre showcase? I would be the first to tell you that I am not cut out for something like this. I have little experience when it comes to drama and, yet, I find myself standing on stage in Howard Auditorium playing Earnest in “The Importance of Being Earnest,” the Theatre Department’s showcase production opening next week. The most experience I have with drama revolves around church skits, something just about everyone is roped into doing. It’s quite a common occurrence to go through high school seeing a peer pressure skit, with one of those daredevil upperclassmen suggesting a raunchy movie with an eyebrow raised. And everybody secretly acted out “High School Musical” scenes at some point or another. Putting on Christmas plays or Bible lesson skits for children’s church isn’t exactly the Broadway stage and doesn’t hold the importance and visibility of a collegiate performance. When you are performing for children, they could care less if you miss a cue or act like Noah instead of Moses. The pressure to strive to do my best is more apparent here on Howard’s stage. After the hours of practicing my small role, I am still new to acting and am still learning. The hardest challenge I have had to overcome is to memorize lines with a British accent. Sometimes it is difficult for me to just remember a few sentences, let alone performing an entire scene with a foreign accent. Who knew saying, “My dear fellow, there is nothing improbable about my explanation at all,” could require such
Internet Photos
“The Importance of Being Earnest, A Trivial Comedy for Serious People,” a play by Oscar Wilde and first performed in 1895, continues to captivate audiences for its romantic and comedic elements when two men take on fictitious personas and begin sneaky activities. ORU’s production of “The Importance of Being Earnest” is part of a drama class that teaches directing. Each scene and each night have a different director and different actors. a change in enunciation of consonants and vowels. “Sherlock Holmes” and other BBC comedies were helpful in channeling my inner Brit. It’s also been a challenge memorizing specific blocking and places I have to move during the scene. It may seem easy, but for someone not used to doing stage direction, it’s quite a big task to handle. Perhaps the highest hurdle is the romantic aspect of the scene. I have to be in love and propose, both of which I have never done. It makes it a little more difficult to find the motivation to confess my unending love for this woman when I have never even had a girlfriend. There’s so much more that goes into saying, “Will you marry me?” Tip-toeing, “goo-goo” eyes and nerves take center stage before the knee drops to the floor. The time commitment is one thing I underestimated going into the showcase. I am only in a minor portion of the entire production, and I feel like we have to rehearse all the time. My view is different because I am not in the
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department and do not have to experience it regularly every semester. I can only imagine what actors and other people go through during actual plays and musical productions where the show as a whole is two or three hours long. Getting fitted for clothes to use in the show is an awkward process. I was under the impression going into the performance that we may have to use our own clothes or something else convenient. However, the play is set in England during the late 19th century where style was a rigid part of the culture, so specific attire must be worn at all times. I’m not used to someone taking measurements and becoming acquainted with my chest, hips, neck, arms and legs. It is no doubt an exhausting process, but it is also an enjoyable one that I believe will help me in my future career of being on a stage of some sort and talking to the audience. When this is all over, I think I will find there really is an importance of being Earnest.
“Importance of Being Earnest” Tuesday-Thursday March 31-April 2, 7:30 p.m. Howard Auditorium
“Charlotte’s Web” April 17-18, 7 p.m. April 19, 2 p.m. John William Theater, Tulsa Performing Art Center
#Flashback Friday Dollie Foller works at the walmart across the street from ORU arranging shoes and purses. She likes to interact with ORU students when they visit the store.
Meet Dollie
Photo by Valeria Hernandez
Students find adopted ‘Grandma’ across the street Valeria Hernandez Staff Writer
Most 89-year-olds retire, but Dollie Foller has worked at the Walmart across from ORU for more than seven years. Foller notices when ORU students walk into the store and greets them with her usual joyful phrase, while meticulously arranging shoes and purses. “ORU students are so pretty. I’m serious,” said Foller. “I always know when ORU students come in, because they are so pretty.” Foller works up to 40 hours per week. She attributes her liveliness and happiness to the joy of working, but it was her financial situation that prompted her to apply at Walmart. “I needed the money. I was broke,” Foller said. Although Foller’s daughter lives next door, she simply loves independence and working is a way to stay financially independent. Two years ago, Foller met a group of ORU students in Walmart. Anna Babinec was among the group. Babinec thought Foller resembled her grandmother. “It gives me hope that God knows that I miss my grandma and that he placed someone across the street that I can talk to,” said Babinec. “Someone that is going to tell you stories. That’s how my grandma is because [she] just has so much wisdom.” Foller reminisces the time when Babinec and Ezra Chavez wrote a letter for her during a holiday. “I loved it,” said Foller. “I think that was the sweetest thing anybody has done for me in a long time. I am serious.” Foller tries remembering each student’s name but whenever she forgets a name, she simply calls them “darlings.” Foller even talks about ORU students to
other customers. “When I went last time, she was helping a customer with shoes, but when she saw me, she started telling the customer everything about all of us,” said Chavez. For Chavez, Foller is more than a Walmart employee. She never sees her without a smile on her face. “I never really had a relationship with my grandma, so Dollie does feel like a grandma,” said Chavez. Severe health issues lie behind her smile and laughter. She doesn’t let her health stop her from working. Recently, Foller got sick for two weeks and feared the absences would impact her job. “I called the manager and I said, ‘Am I still working at Walmart?’ And she said, ‘You bet.’” Foller has witnessed many robberies during her time at Walmart. She will try to gently stop customers from stealing although intervening violates store policy. Once, a young man was about to shop lift when she intervened. “I told him, ‘Did you know security watches people? And I don’t want you to get in trouble,’” said Foller. “‘You are too young. You don’t want to get in trouble at this age.’” Despite the obstacles she faces, Foller never lets her joy fade. “She has lived 90 years, and she is still going,” said Babinec. “It is not only comforting the fact that [it] is possible to live that long and be healthy. It is also encouragement to not give up. Your attitude can change a lot.”
Fighting to end sexual violence Morgan Redding Staff Writer
In recent months a movement has spread across the nation to end sexual assault, especially on college campuses. Thirty years ago, ORU students were working towards a similar goal. In March of 1985 a Media Promotions class was taught by Dr. Durphey. In addition to selling ads, the class promoted protection from sexual assault in the Tulsa community. The students composed public service announcements, which aired on KTCR radio. The announcements were designed to counsel victims, recruit volunteers for safe homes and provide preventive programs for families and church groups. A quote from the old article titled, “Media class works to prevent sexual assault” reads– “I feel that the Lord despises this horrible sin of sexual assault,” says one student. “But He still loves the molester and, of course the victim. Through these announcements we hope to attract volunteers and also to discourage molesters.” In 2014, The U.S. Department of Justice reported sexual assaults have fallen by more than 50 percent in recent years. Despite the decrease, sexual assault is still a hot topic in 2015. The documentary, “The Hunting Ground” hit theaters on March 20. It addresses the issue of sexual assault on college campuses across the country. The National Sexual Violence Resource Center has declared the month of April as Sexual Assault Awareness month. To find out more, visit nsvrc.com
For more features coverage of stories like Dollie Foller’s, log on to oruoracle.com THE ORACLE • Friday, March 27, 2015 • 7
Empowered21 Assistant Alyssa Beard [second from left] serves Latinos in Action during her time with AmeriCorps.
Courtesy Photo
AmeriCorps helps relieve student debt Service organization provides work in communities while paying off student loan debt Daisha Fowler Staff Writer Graduation is only five weeks away for students graduating in May. Now is the time to be on the prowl for a rewarding and financially supportive job with a salary to pay back student loans. AmeriCorps offers recent graduates the opportunity to give back to their community, receive a salary and pay back student debt. AmeriCorps, a multi-branch service program, pulls in more than 75,000 Americans each year. The program places thousands of young adults into service positions where they learn valuable work ethic, earn money to pay back education loans and develop an appreciation for the community. ORU graduate Ian Jones is a 6th grade Science and Social Studies teacher at KIPP Tulsa College Preparatory School. Jones is also the gradelevel chair and science department chair. He teaches in a low-income community through AmeriCorps. “I love being a part of a movement with other like-minded individuals who are united to bring about change
and social justice. It allows one to give back to communities and be an active member of that community,” said Jones. Ruth Adams, ORU alumna, is a member of NCCC-FEMA Corps, which is a partnership between FEMA and AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC). She is currently stationed at the Pacific Region campus located in Sacramento, California. “FEMA Corps members spend 10 months getting things done for America while developing their individual leadership skills. My team is one of many that are deployed exclusively to support disaster preparedness, response and recovery projects through FEMA,” said Adams. When Adams signed up for the program nine months ago she was uncertain about her future, but NCCCFEMA is giving her opportunities to explore her future plans and network for opportunities. “When I signed up for this program over nine months ago, I had no idea what the future held. Plans are still unknown, but I stand firmly,
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trusting God, who has continually gone before me, and always leaves me in awe of his handiwork,” said Adams. “I am a proud member of a team that will be trained and equipped with skills to last beyond the projects completed through AmeriCorps. AmeriCorps will provide networking opportunities that will open doors, and renewed perspectives to lead and see the worth in every encounter and situation.” Financial benefits offered through AmeriCorps NCCC and FEMA Corps include: a living allowance, housing, food, transportation to work sites, limited child care benefits, limited health care benefits, training, uniforms and an educational award offered upon successful completion of the term of service. “As a result of my term of service, I have gained the ability to have my loans put into forbearance, meaning AmeriCorps will pay any interest that incurs during my term of service,” Adams said. “Also, upon successful completion of my term of service I will gain my educational award, approximately $5,730.00, which I can apply to my student loans.” More than 900,000 AmeriCorps
members have served communities all over the nation since the birth of the program in 1994. Branches include teaching, nonprofits and public agencies. Pay ranges from $24,000 to $51,000 per year. “AmeriCorps is a great opportunity to serve others, gain experience, and transition into your chosen career path,” said Empowered21 assistant Alyssa Beard. Beard served in AmeriCorps from 2011 to 2012 in Orem, Utah. She served in the VISTA branch. “I was able to use the money I made from AmeriCorps to pay off my monthly student loan payment for three whole years,” said Beard. Any AmeriCorps member who serves a minimum of 12 months has the opportunity to receive the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award and use it to pay for graduate school, textbooks and accumulated student loans. The total award is tied to the maximum U.S. Department of Education Pell Grant for the given year. Members of AmeriCorps may earn up to the value of two education awards.
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THE ORACLE • Friday, March 27, 2015 • 9
He’s the most interesting man at ORU JJ Johnson News Editor
You look at the moon; he owns property on it. You live in a town; he built one. You are looking for a job; he has five. Pick a random word in the dictionary, and he probably knows more about it than you know about yourself. When he’s not traveling the world or dodging bullets, he teaches college students. Sit down with him for a minute, and he’ll teach you something too. Roger Bush is the most interesting man at ORU. “Before I ever knew what I was going to do or where I would go, I actually had my pilot’s license,” Bush said. “I was also a scuba diver.” In 1970, the multi-talented 17-year old gained acceptance into Purdue University’s highly exclusive flight school, one of only two out-of-state students to do so that year. He studied flying, engineering and music. But a trip to Oral Roberts University his freshman year changed everything for the energetic teenager. He attended College Weekend in 1971 at his mother’s request. Something just “clicked.” “[Purdue] didn’t understand why I was leaving such a prestigious program to ‘come to where?,’” Bush said. And now, more than three decades later, Bush has become a legend on campus. Each year, Bush treats his audio production students to a showing of the disaster film, “Twister.” The filmmakers combined over 800 This cable turned into a single fiber-optic strand so he could attend the Super Bowl.
10 • THE ORACLE • Friday, March 27, 2015
He’s so interesting rocks paint pictures on themselves hoping he will talk about them. sounds to create the roar of the film’s title character. Bush uses this example to illustrate sound’s ability to imitate nature’s raw power - a power he knows all too well. “It was so black,” Bush said. “We are sitting at the stoplight at 51st and Peoria and the radio guy says, ‘The tornado has been spotted at 51st and Peoria’. We are sitting there. Which way do we go?” Bush turned left. The tornado turned right. “You know it’s right around you, but you don’t know where it is,” Bush said. The metaphor is an apt description of most of the opportunities Bush comes across in life. He serves as director and curator of ORU’s Elsing Museum, a renowned collection of geological artifacts from around the world. He loves the work but never expected the trail he walked to lead here. “Everything I’ve learned in the earth sciences and geology has been kind of OJT – on-the-jobtraining,” Bush said. His first lessons came in college while aiding Nathan Meleen, an earth science professor pursuing his doctorate at the time. Fieldwork and babysitting opportunities formed a relation-
ship that lasted decades. The pair created educational trips for students to spend a couple of weeks out of the year exploring the American Southwest. Bush took part in summer trips to the Grand Canyon for 18 years. “The students called me MacGyver. Anything they had that would come apart, I had to fix,” Bush said. “You’re out in the middle of nowhere.” “Rockhound” Willard Elsing donated his collection to ORU after a third battle with cancer in 2001. Meleen directed what became the Elsing Museum and after retiring, gave the job to Bush. One of Bush’s favorite items to show off fell from beyond earth – a small but heavy meteorite, pockmarked from its journey through the stars. Bush wonders if one day he will make it to where that little rock came from. If he does, he will have a place to stay.
“The students called me MacGyver. Anything they had that would come apart, I had to fix.”
“A few years ago my wife was looking for a birthday gift for me and wanted to get something unique. And she found probably the most unique birthday gift there is,” Bush said. “She bought me a lot on the moon.” The United Nations-issued title and deed hang in Bush’s office. He may not build the lunar condominium he dreams of, but if he shoots for the moon and misses, he can at least land at Lake Hudson. He is already the mayor there. The professor-turned-carpenter undertook the process of building a town years ago. On his land, he constructed a cabin, a chapel and a barn. He plans to build a jail, a barber shop, and a “better-not-call-it-a-saloon.” “I don’t like metal outbuildings and things that aren’t that attractive. So, instead of having that, I designed mine,” Bush said. He also dreams of building a hilltop church overlooking the lake. “We have people coming every Sunday now,” Bush said. “We have had up to 17 people in there. It’s only supposed to seat eight or 10.” Add pastor to his resume. “You never know what God’s going to do,” Bush said. He never thought he would pilot a miniature blimp over ORU home basketball games
From Left to Right: Kaylin Thompson, Emily Canevasio, Darrell Walker, Roger Bush, Valeria Hernandez, Isaaac Rodriguez and Sarah Yeary discuss the process and history of table salt.
for 15 years. He never thought he would work on an international crew at Portugal’s biggest soccer game. He never thought he would be stationed in Times Square, setting up the television feed for the Super Bowl. He never thought he would teach. “I think a lot of why I teach is that [my students] can leave [ORU] with the knowledge that I had to learn the hard way,” Bush said. “And with that, it gives them a better start on the rest of their life.”
Bush won’t share all his secrets. He once revealed to his students that the sound of bullets whizzing past one’s ears in movies is very different than the same sound in real life. His class asked him how he knew. Bush responded with a silent smile. This reporter asked him again. His response summed up much more than the question at hand. “Half the fun of it is that you don’t know the rest of the story,” Bush said.
Super Bowl fiberoptic technology guru
Owns a lot on the moon
scuba diver Pastor Mayor of Lake Hudson
I actually had my pilot’s license
Pilots a miniature blimp for fun
Built a Town
Photos by Samantha Magnaye and Audry Gray
International crew at Portugal’s biggest soccer game
He’s so interesting, salt has more flavor just because he mentioned it in coversation.
THE ORACLE • Friday, March 27, 2015 • 11
SPORTS
@oruoraclesports
Golden Eagles come into weekend on a roll Russell Dorsey Sports Writer The Golden Eagles have gotten on a roll and have started to play very good baseball. Last week the Golden Eagles went 6-2, pushing their record above .500 in the process. The Golden Eagles began their hot week defeating North Dakota State two games to one. Pitcher Xavier Altamirano pitched a gem in Game 3 to highlight the series. He was unhittable, pitching seven strong innings allowing no earned runs, one hit and striking out a careerhigh 14 batters. Altamirano earned Collegiate Baseball Louisville Slugger National Player of the Week honors for his performance against NDSU on March 15 and will undoubtedly bring some positive attention to the team. “It’s good for X, he deserved the award. He pitched outstanding two different times and he deserves that,” said Head Coach Ryan Folmar. “It gets our name out there. Anytime your name is out there, that’s good for your program and university. We’re really proud of the way he’s pitched.” ORU rolled into Lubbock, Texas to face No. 23 Texas Tech for a two game set. The Golden Eagles split the series with the Red
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Raiders. The Golden Eagles outlasted Texas Tech in Game 1, winning 9-7 in 11 innings. In Game 2, Texas Tech held off a ninth inning comeback by ORU to defeat the Golden Eagles 7-4. Catcher Matt Whatley swung the bat well going 5 for 11 in the series with two doubles, a homerun, three runs scored and four RBIs. “This is not a team that’s in midseason form yet. I think we got a long way to go,” said Folmar. “I think if we continue the process and continue to play the way we have, by the end of the season we should be where we want to be.”
Photos by David Sauer
Top: Head Coach Ryan Folmar looks on as Derrian James bats. Center: Nick Roark slides into third base against IPFW on Sunday. Right: Matt Whatley runs to first base after a leadoff hit. Left: Chase Stafford bunts to advance runners on Sunday.
The Golden Eagles finished a sweep of IPFW Sunday to bring their conference record to 5-1. They brought out the bats against the Mastadons winning 14-7, 10-5 and 12-4. The offense for ORU was in full swing, scoring 36 runs and averaging 12 runs for the series. Third baseman Chase Stafford led the way against the IPFW going 6 for 14 (.429) with a double, a home run, five runs scored and 11 RBIs. Shortstop Nick Roark did his best to match Stafford going 8 for 14 (.571) with a double, five runs scored and four RBIs against IPFW. ORU defeated UALR 15-2 in seven innings Tuesday night. They were led offensively by first baseman Anthony Sequiera, who went 3 for 5 with two home runs including a grand slam and seven RBIs. The Golden Eagles begin a three game series tonight against first place leading Omaha. The Mavericks lead the Summit Conference by one game going into the weekend. If the Golden Eagles win two games, they would take over the top spot in the conference. “I think we have to play well to win. Whether it’s Omaha, IPFW or whoever we play,” said Folmar. “I think it just comes down to what we do and being ready on Friday night.” First pitch for tonight’s game against Omaha will be at 6:30 p.m. at J.L. Johnson Stadium.
Women’s golf grabs invitational championship David Sauer Sports Editor
The ORU women’s golf team won its second tournament of the year at the Jackrabbit Invitational March 16-17, defending it’s title from last year’s event. ORU shot 872 over 54 holes, matching the best three round score in school history. The record was originally set at the 2011 Jackrabbit Invitational. Shinwoo Lee led the way for the Golden Eagles with a fourth place individual finish. Alejandra Acosta, Kennedy Ishee and Paty Torres all finished in the top 10. “It felt great and it made our Spring Break worth it,” Acosta said. “We had a rough start on our first tournament this semester so we just wanted to make it back and gain some confidence for the rest of the season. We had a great first round that helped us believe that we can really play some good golf.” The Golden Eagles opened the tournament with a school record team score of 282 in round one. ORU found themselves in second place to South Dakota State after round two. SDSU gained 10 strokes on ORU in the second round and took a two shot lead into the final round. The Golden Eagles came back to shoot six shots better than the Jackrabbits in round three to claim the tournament victory. “I feel it was just trying to stay on the present,” Acosta said. “Sometimes in golf you start thinking so much ahead, instead of focusing on the shot you are about to execute, so one of my priorities this tournament was to concentrate on one shot at time.”
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The women’s golf team shows off their win from the Jackrabbit invitational. From left: Paola Aviles, Sirapassorn Cheepborisut, Paty Torres, Shinwoo Lee, Alejandra Acosta and Kennedy Ishee. Acosta opened the tournament with a 68 in round one, matching her career best and the second best round in school history. The win was the second straight top two finish for ORU, after a second place result at the Lady Thunderbird Invitational March 12-13. The Golden Eagles have finished in the top two in five out of seven tournaments this season. “I feel like the team is finding its stride as it gets close to conference championship,” Lee said. “I feel like we all found the good feelings of our game and everyone is ready to shoot many low scores. How we played in these two tournaments will give us more
confidence and will prepare us better for the next tournament.” The win gives ORU tremendous confidence moving forward. “Winning this tournament means a lot for all of us,” Lee said. “We all played great and won a comefrom-behind victory, which was a great feeling. We all know how good we have to play to win the conference and winning this tournament really showed that we can do it if we continue to work harder.” The Golden Eagles will look to continue the quest for a conference title at the UALR First Tee Classic March 30-31.
Season continues for Golden Eagle basketball teams Parrish Purnell Jr. Staff Writer
The ORU men and women’s basketball teams were eliminated from the Summit League conference tournament early after losing in the semifinals. Although the goal of winning a conference championship and going to the NCAA tournament didn’t happen, both teams earned postseason playing opportunities. The men finished the season with an 18-14 record, after being knocked out of the tournament by eventual champion North Dakota State. “I’m disappointed we didn’t win, but I thought our guys really competed,” said Coach Scott Sutton. The team returned home and waited for the call that a postseason berth
would still be possible. The call came on selection Sunday as the men were invited to play in the CBI (College Basketball Invitational). “It was hard to end the season losing to NDSU,” said Obi Emegano. “I am happy that I am able to get back on the floor with my guys again. We get another opportunity to fight another game.” The started strong with a offensivedominated win over UC Santa Barbara to advance to the second round. Obi Emegano lit up the Gauchos for 30 points on 9-18 shooting, as he led his team to a 91-87 victory. “It just felt good to play again,” said Emegano after his hot shooting night. “We fought together and got the win.” ORU’s season came to an end
against Loyola University Chicago in the second round. The Golden Eagles trailed for most of the game and, despite a valiant effort, fell short losing 86-78. Sophomore point guard Aaron Young showed his entire arsenal as he scored a career-high 26 points in the loss. “It was really disappointing to come this far and fall short of our team goal,” said Young. “I’m really proud of my team though. Hopefully this experience will help us going into next season.” The women’s basketball team share a similar story, but the ending has yet to be written. They lost to South Dakota State in the semi-finals, but kept their postseason hopes alive by earning a WBI (Women’s Basketball Invitational
Tournament) bid. The Golden Eagles showed that they were deserving of the invite by beating Texas State 57-54 in a late game thriller. Vicky McIntyre continued her amazing season with a monstrous performance by ripping down 22 rebounds to go with 16 points. Two days later, ORU pulled off another late-game win. Freshman guard Jordan Doyle knocked down a threepointer with 22 seconds left to give her team the 63-61 victory. The Golden Eagles made the WBI semi-finals after their second win. They faced Louisiana Thursday night at 7 p.m. in Lafayette, Louisiana. For coverage of the game, log on to oruoracle. com. THE ORACLE • Friday, March 27, 2015 • 13
Old faces, new places as MLB season kicks off Russell Dorsey Staff Writer
The 2015 MLB season starts in nine days, and all 30 teams are gearing up for another exciting season. Old school baseball made a comeback in 2014. The “small-ball” World Series between the San Francisco Giants and Kansas City Royals turned into a sevengame battle before the Giants took the crown. This season, the central division will take the top spot as the toughest division in the American League. Moves made by the Chicago White Sox, Cleveland Indians and the return of the Royals to baseball relevance makes the Central more competitive than ever before. The Detroit Tigers are looking to rebound after a disappointing first-round loss to the Orioles in the 2014 postseason. Miguel Cabrera and the Tigers are the front-runners to win the AL Central, but this year there are three other teams equipped to knock them off the top spot. The White Sox won the offseason this winter acquiring pitcher Jeff Samardijza, left fielder Melky Cabrera, first baseman/designated hitter Adam LaRoche and closer David Robertson. The Sox improved more than any other team in baseball. Led by reigning AL Rookie of the Year José Abreu and ace Chris Sale, the Sox look ready to make a deep playoff run. The Royals won a wild card spot and made it all the way to the World Series for the first time since 1985. Even after losing starter James Shields in free agency, they still have a talented young team ready to show that last season wasn’t a fluke. The Indians finished with an 85-77 record last season and were led by AL Cy Young winner Corey Kluber. Kluber is looking to lead the Indians into the postseason. The Minnesota Twins will be the bottom dwellers in the AL Central. Bringing in Hall of Famer Paul Molitor as manager was a great move for a young Twins squad. It will be a few more years before the Twins can compete for an AL Central title. The National League West will once again dominate the League. The San Francisco Giants were able to win the World Series, but lost superstar Pablo Sandoval to the Boston Red Sox in the offseason. They will go through a regression as they look to supplement the loss. The Los Angeles Dodgers are the favorite to win the NL Pennant. Although the Dodgers have been bounced in the NLDS and NLCS by the St. Louis Cardinals the last two seasons, don’t expect the 14 • THE ORACLE • Friday, March 27, 2015
Dodgers to go down so easily this season. The San Diego Padres look to make the jump from last place to division contenders. The Friars revamped their outfield acquiring Wil Myers, Justin Upton and Matt Kemp. The upgrades should make the Padres a contender in a tough NL West. Neither the Colorado Rockies nor the Arizona Diamondbacks will be able to compete in a competitive NL West. Both teams will be sellers when the trade deadline comes. This year’s two sleeper teams are the Toronto Blue Jays and Miami Marlins. The Blue Jays are always lost in the AL East shuffle as much of the attention goes to the Yankees, Red Sox and most
recently the Orioles. They have a potent lineup with major power bats including Joey Bautista, Edwin Encarnacion and new addition Josh Donaldson. The Jays will be the team to watch in the AL. The Marlins are going to be the team to watch in the NL. They have quietly put together a very nice ball club with a unique combination of speed, power, youth and
veteran experience. If healthy, the Marlins can make a serious run at a wild card spot. When the dust settles, 10 teams will still be standing in October and as always there will be some good teams who are left watching at home. The Picks The AL: White Sox [Central], Angels [West], Red Sox [East] Wild Card: Mariners, Blue Jays The NL: The Dodgers [West], Nationals [East], Pirates [Central] Wild Card: Cardinals and Padres. Regardless of the outcome, the 2015 MLB season will be an exciting one.
Top: Matt Kemp looks to be the cornerstone of a revamped Padres lineup. Right: Cardinals hope ace Adam Wainwright will lead them to their third consecutive division crown. Bottom: Toronto hopes budding superstar Josh Donaldson is the key to an AL East title. Left: Reigning AL Rookie of the Year Jose Abreu attempts to power the White Sox into October this season. Courtesy Photos
Coaches, mentors drive pole-vaulter forward Solomon Williams Staff Writer
ORU has meant more than polevaulting success for sophomore polevaulter Justin Estala. Estala said his relationships and experiences away from the team are just as vital to his success as clearing heights and setting personal bests in competition. Hailing from the small town of Subiaco, Arkansas, Estala had no knowledge of ORU while in high school. “The only thing that brought me to ORU was Coach Joe Dial,” Estala said. “I was being recruited by a bunch of schools, but Coach Dial stood out to me; the type of man that he was, a good coach, and we just clicked.” The experiences and relationships that awaited Estala at ORU were pleasant surprises. The opportunity to grow closer to God and meet people who supported him was encouraging. “ORU has opened a lot of doors. A lot of times you get discouraged but God has showed me many times that he is there,” Estala said. One of those doors has been the opportunity to develop a friendship with former ORU pole-vaulter and current record holder Jack Whitt. Whitt’s career is highlighted by seven All-American honors and an Outdoor Nationals victory in 2012. Now Estala trains with Whitt regularly and has developed a friendship.
Whitt says Estala’s work ethic and preparation were never an issue. The meticulous details, like eating habits, had to be ironed out. Whitt says Estala was a bit on the “pudgy” side when he first came in. He has since developed a firm grip on eating clean. Whitt said he would be proud to see Estala’s hard work pay off, even if it comes at the expense of his own pole vaulting record being broken. “It’s just a record, and it’s meant to be broken. I would like to see him do it rather than some other vaulter,” Whitt said. Estala has been successful in his two-year career. Estala already posted the 20th best jumping height at conference championships, was named second team All-American and finished 10th at the NCAA National Championships. From an athletic standpoint, Estala prepares as if he is a veteran who has seen it all. “Coach Dial has known how to prepare and train me. You have to put 110 percent in mentally and physically in everything you do, and that’s what I have done since August,” Estala said. Relationships with people who have been in ORU classes and experienced the culture, like Whitt, have helped Estala be more than just a great athlete and really discover his identity. “I grew up Southern Baptist, so when I came into ORU it was a little bit of a culture shock for me,” Whitt
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Justin Estala jumps during the NCAA Indoor National Championship in Arkansas. Estala finished 10th at the event earning him a second team AllAmerican honor. said. “I’ve watched Justin mature and become more open minded and accepting of different beliefs.” Estala attests to the unique experiences that ORU has granted him. He believes if it were not for ORU, his life would more than likely be on a downhill slide. “A lot of times I have doubted, and God has been able to show me that he is here,” Estala said. “In my classes I can go to my professors and talk to them about any problem I have, and they help prepare me mentally and steer me in the right direction.” Estala continues to head in the
right direction with the help of a community and those who know what it is like as an ORU student athlete. With their help, Estala has grown to consider the truth of his ORU career-meaning more than just jumping for records, but truly developing as a man of God. “I believe God put me here for a reason to represent Oral Roberts,” Estala said. “If it were not for Coach Dial and Jack, I would not be where I am. They have helped me tremendously. Just in life to have someone there to talk to. You go to any other school in the country, and you can’t get that.”
Cause and effect of Kevin Durant’s injury Ryan Woods Staff Writer
Oklahoma City forward Kevin Durant has been removed from basketball activities because of soreness in his surgically-repaired right foot. There is no timetable for his return. Thunder general manager Sam Presti made the announcement during a news conference Friday. “The timeline [for Durant’s return] is inconsequential,” he said. Durant has played in only 27 games this season after suffering a Jones fracture in his foot before the season and undergoing surgery Oct. 16. Durant had a second procedure to replace a screw in the foot Feb. 22, and it’s possible he has played his last game of the 2014-15 season.
“Unless he is able to be back on the floor without soreness, he won’t be back on the floor,” Presti said. “As difficult of a decision as [this] is, I think for Kevin, just because I know how competitive he is and he wants to be on the floor, we have to do the right thing here. I am making sure that all the information is being assessed accurately, and then we are going to determine what is going to put him in the best decision to go forward as a basketball player.” As for the remaining roster, the Thunder is competing with the New Orleans Pelicans and the Phoenix Suns for the eighth and final playoff spot in the Western Conference. Oklahoma City is also without starting interior defender Serge Ibaka, who is out four to six weeks because of right knee surgery. All eyes are on MVP candidate Russell Westbrook
who is averaging 32.7 points, 10.7 assists and 9.6 rebounds since the All-Star Break and leads the league with nine triple-doubles. The Thunder and Durant are making a responsible decision, but it comes at a huge cost to the organization. The Thunder has likely lost its last chance to chase a ring with Durant before he becomes the most talked-about expiring contract since LeBron James in 2009-10. Had Oklahoma City gone into the postseason with all its horses, there would have been no more talented team in the league. The idea of a dramatic playoff run with Durant had pushed all of these organizational fears off of center stage, but no more. When it comes to Durant, OKC is now on the clock. THE ORACLE • Friday, March 27, 2015 • 15
SCENE
Photos by Audrey Gray
The Warren Theatre features the latest movies in old-fashioned style. The Warren is located at 1700 W. Aspen Creek Drive in Broken Arrow off the Creek Turnpike. All seats must be reserved either through the theatre’s website or the ticket window.
Warren Theatre brings vintage feel to movie night Rachel Anderson Managing Editor
When customers walk through the doors of a Warren Theatre, they enter into an experience they won’t soon forget. The 1920s themed décor and the customer service pulls patrons back to a time when theatres strived to pamper their guests. “You can tell it’s not your everyday theatre,” said Rance Blann, Warren Theatre general manager. “What’s unique about the Warren Theatre is that you have several choices of seating.” Different prices are offered to each seating level. Student’s are treated to a discount on all first floor theatres Sunday through Thursday for $8.50. Bill Warren, the founder of the growing franchise with the most famous in Moore, Oklahoma, has been in the theatre business for over 40 years. “Warren just wanted to be different,” said Blann. “This is what he remembers as a kid growing up. He’s always been in the theatre business. He loves it. He remembers the way people used to be pampered. He wanted an experience that was different.” The Warren offers five different styles of auditoriums for patrons to view films. Each auditorium has a different experience, but they all fit into the theme of old-style extravagance. The most popular auditoriums are the screening rooms. In this theatre, guests are provided with plush, reclining chairs with built in seat heaters. The films are projected onto a curved screen with 4k 16 • THE ORACLE • Friday, March 27, 2015
digital projection and surround sound. “It has a nice comfortable feel, almost like being in your living room,” said Blann. The Stadium Auditoriums are larger than the screening rooms, holding around 250 people each. The chairs in these theaters are similar to normal theatre seating. “You can sit in a normal theatre and feel like you’re crunched in like sardines next to a stranger. That is not the case here,” said Blann. “You don’t have to bump elbows or fight for an armrest.” The biggest screen in the state and one of the biggest screens in the country is housed in the Grand Infinity Auditorium. It has a 120-degree arch giving viewers a nearly 3D effect that allows them feel more encompassed into the film. “What we have is better than IMAX,” said Blann. “The experience in here is second to none.” Because the screen is so large, the Warren has to use 4k laser light projection. This precision presentation brightens projected film, which enhances the quality of the color and makes it easier to watch darkly-lit scenes. The sound system has 64 channels of Dolby Atmos multidimensional sound. The quality of the technical elements in this particular theatre sets itself apart from the other styles. The Balcony theatre offers a more mature experience for patrons 21-years-old, complete with reclining seats and table dining. Patrons can look over their menus and call a server over with the push of
a button. This seating also offers a love seat option. Couples can push up the armrests and cuddle while watching the film. “This auditorium is our most popular area. It’s the best place to see a film, especially if you want to see it on a big wide screen,” said Blann. Warren offers an even more upscale experience in the Director’s Suite. Only patrons 21-years-old and older with director suite tickets can enter this area. This theatre is considered the most intimate and upscale experience out of all the other auditoriums. Ushers stationed by each of the doorways are ready to greet patrons, dressed in full 1920s-themed uniforms, complete with bow ties and white gloves. The theater also hosts a 1940s themed diner with a menu offering food that patrons can bring into the theaters. Opposite the diner is an arcade full of the latest games. Throwback elements like curtains and clocks appear throughout the theatre, adding an old-time feel. Custom art covers the walls, and music is piped throughout the building. Trademarked dome lighting adds to the ambience of feeling special as well as the chocolate-covered mints offered by the ushers. “Once someone comes here and watches a movie, guess what, they’re never going to go anywhere else,” Blann said.
Student musician strives to create local platform Francesca L. Vazquez Staff Writer
Geena Fontanella, an ORU vocal perfomance senior, streamed her album on Spotify, iTunes and Amazon last summer. Here’s what the artist had to say about her musical journey. Francesca Vasquez: I know being in the music industry presents so many challenges and obstacles. Would you mind sharing what those obstacles look like for you personally and how you overcome them? GF: Probably the hardest thing for me is just getting people to support you. Even though we are so connected with social media, we’re not connected at the same time. You’re like, “Okay, I just released a song, I want everyone to get excited about it.” And five people like it. It just hurts sometimes. The most difficult thing is getting people to support you and getting yourself out there. Right now I am in Tulsa, so I try to do as many places in Tulsa. But I try to do shows in Arkansas, or shows when I go back home in California, or shows in Nashville, just constantly trying to meet new people and get them excited about what I am excited about.
FV: At what moment did you realize, this is what I want to do for the rest of my life? GF: You know, every time I sit down to write a song, there’s just something about...I can’t even explain it. There are certain things that come naturally to you, and you feel very peaceful about it even though you may be in a stressful environment. And this is totally who I am, and it’s the same thing when I get on stage. Everything aligns, and [I] know that [I] know that this is where I’m supposed to be. FV: What is the most important message for you to communicate to your listeners? GF: I really try to the best of my ability to be as vulnerable as possible. When I go to write a song, it’s me on that page. I have struggled with things in my life and I’ve gone through things in my life. My mom and I got kicked out of our house and we lived in five different homes until this family took us in. Writing about that struggle, writing about seeing my mom going through that struggle, that’s what “Fight Again” is about. “Monster” deals with the idea of feeling like I’m doing everything wrong in every relationship, whether it be spiritually, whether it be
Courtesy photo
Musician Geena Fontanella shared her thoughts on performing and releasing her album with songs titled “Queen of Hearts,” “Dance ‘Til We Die.” with my friends. I feel like I’m always doing them wrong, and I feel like a monster. I try to put myself and what I’m dealing with on that page.
Fontanella will play at Woody’s on 2nd Street Thursday, April 9 at 10 p.m.
To watch the rest of the interview, check out oruoracle.com.
Five ways to ditch stress, soar through finals week Kaylin Thompson Staff Writer
Midterms and finals can cause stress levels to rise, which can result in negative effects on the body. The pressure that forms due to the influx of assignments and deadlines causes tension and anxiety to escalate amongst students. There are many ways in which students can decompress during and following these stressful times. 1. Take time to do something other than work. “Each person can de-stress differently. Some people use exercise like going for a walk, run or cycling,” said Letitia Cammon, licensed therapist and ORU student counselor. “Others may de-stress by taking a long drive, journaling, drawing pictures or taking a long shower. Doing things that make you feel like you’re the one being pampered can help
relieve stress.” 2. Sleep well and be an early bird. Prevention and preparation are of some best ways to avoid negative stress and it begins before one actually starts the day. People typically need between 8-10 hours of sleep each night to function properly. “Students should be up 40 minutes to an hour before they have to get to class. Doing this also allows students to be more alert and attentive once they get to class. You’re brain will be ready to learn and retain more information,” said Cammon. 3. Schedule the paper’s due date in advance. Proper scheduling and efficient time management are key elements that students can use to help ward off the negative effects of stress. “Let’s say you have a twenty-page paper that’s due at the end of the semester,” said Cammon. “If you create a schedule for writing a certain number
of pages per week, you could have the paper written within a months time simply by scheduling your time efficiently. The stress that usually comes from writing a paper was eliminated.” 5. Leave the dorms and get a study spot. Choosing the proper studying environment is importan preparing to do schoolwork. For the majority of college students, studying in the bedroom is one of the worst places to study. The bed, TV, cell phone and video games usually win students over. “Having a designated study space like the library or coffee shop can be a go-to study spot that provides a good studying atmosphere, so you’ll be more likely to get the work done,” Cammon said. “You’re conditioning your brain to think, when I go in here, I’ll have to do work.”
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MUSE Clash of the Titans: T-Shirts spark campus debate Russell Dorsey Staff Writer
Alumni Relations kicked off a $50 million fundraising campaign this year. As a gift, donors and alumni have given a choice between t-shirts with the old Titans logo or the current Golden Eagles mascot. The shirts have sparked quite a debate. Let’s face it, our mascot leaves a little to be desired. He’s juvenile, cartoonish and inferior to other mascots around the country. Any ORU student has asked themself at least one time, “Is that a chicken or an eagle?” A box of fried chicken would be more likely to intimidate an opponent. ORU began participating in athletic competition in 1965. The school was fairly new and needed a mascot. The student body took a vote to decide what the new mascot would be – and so the Titans were born. According to a 300-student poll conducted for this story, 60 percent of current ORU students prefer the Titans mascot to the Golden Eagle. The Titan was the school’s mascot for 28 years. ORU underwent many changes in 1993. The school had a new president, new direction and a new mascot. On Nov. 17 before an exhibition basketball game Eli the Golden Eagle emerged from a paper-maché egg. Eli, which stands for education, life skills and integrity, has been strutting his stuff ever since. Dr. George Gillen, ORU business professor who has experienced the reigns of both Titan and Golden Eagles mascots, holds a contrary view to most. “The alumni, the student government, the faculty and the administration had meetings to decide if a change was needed,” he said in an email interview. “Also, the mascot was not popular either. It was a student walking around in armor. The Titans were known in Greek mythology as the elder gods who ruled the earth before the Olympians. This was somewhat innappropriate for a Christian university.” Eli the Golden Eagle has represented ORU well for the past 17 years, but who’s to say that Eli can’t be improved. The student body should decide what those changes should be, just like in 1965. There is a way to find balance between being tough competitor and being family friendly. Take Sparty, the mascot of Michigan State University, as an example. He’s family friendly, great for kids but also shows opponents that they are in for a fight. Student-athletes are affected most by the school’s mascot. They represent themselves and the school in their respective sports. When they compete against 18 • THE ORACLE • Friday, March 27, 2015
other schools, they should feel a sense of pride and say, “I am proud to be a (insert mascot here).” “If we brought the Titans back, I would wear way more ORU stuff,” said ORU baseball player Anthony Sequiera. “Our mascot, Eli, is embarrassing.” A mascot should promote school spirit. What would be a better shot in the arm for the university than giving its students and alumni a reason to proud of wearing blue and gold across their chest? Here are a few ideas that might do the trick: Bring back the Titans- Time for a throwback. The Titan is a major part of ORU’s history. It was also a favorite for many of the school’s alumni and some current students would even like to see the Titan return. In the 21st century, it isn’t hard to a legitamte Titan costume that doesn’t look cheesy. Eli 2.0- It’s time to give our animated and feathery friend a new look. Toughen him up, get him in the weight room and let every opponent who sees him know that ORU shouldn’t be taken lightly. Start Fresh- Out with the old, in with the new. There’s nothing wrong with making a change, right? “It should represent the school as a whole and if this is done, it will promote school spirit if it is carefully selected,” Gillen said. Regardless of what changes can be made, one thing is clear. Students past, present and future should be able to show pride not only in their school, but in the mascot that represents them as well.
Graphic by Matthew Dean
60%
of ORU students would prefer the Titans mascot. 179 of 300.
In a poll of 300 current ORU Students
40%
of ORU students would prefer to keep the Golden Eagle mascot. 121 of 300.
Racism is a race in which no one wins
Greg Brown Muse Editor
Have you ever seen a mall trash bin? Every time I work, I walk outside at the end of my shift, and I smell the thing before I can even get out of the “employees only” door. It’s awful. There’s old grease flowing into a grate by the bin and chunks of who-knowswhat piled on the concrete. Dozens of trash bags end up lining the side of the slimy, blue dumpster, and it smells something like a sewer. You know what’s more disgusting than those awful piles of refuse? I’ll give you a hint - it’s racism. The past couple of years have brought racial tensions to the forefront of American culture. From the
murder of Trayvon Martin to the atrocious chants of an University of Oklahoma fraternity, it’s become more apparent than ever that the sentiment of “not liking people who are different than you” lives on within the United States. And that’s not okay. As long as racism’s alive and well, we will never be okay. It’s simply awful that people, even Christians, are standing against their fellow human beings here, throwing around the most disgusting slurs, viewing other people breathed by God as inferior for some reason or another. It’s even more disturbing that the reality of racism exists in a real way through jokes, comments and assumptions made by the people we come into contact with everyday. You know what I’m talking about. It’s got to stop. The solution starts with us. The prejudices present in the United States and the church are antithetical to the purpose of both institutions. So, what do we do? Well, we start by recognizing the problem. A structure of intolerance has crept into our institutions and survived leaps toward progress within our culture.
That’s dangerous. It’s wrong. No if ’s, and’s or but’s. So, we have to stand in solidarity with those being oppressed. We have to say “no” to the sickening jokes, the assumptions made about someone that looks different than you. The church, for one, should take a stronger stance against racism. Christ accepts everyone, so, how can anyone under the banner of Christianity reject another human being because of some trivial difference or another? At the end of the day, we are all human beings, and we have to rally together, stand as one against the structures engrained into our society that reinforce the sentiment of division and oppression. We have no business denying others the love that Christ offers us. We have no business ignoring the reality of oppression of others in our society. We have no business staying silent when others are being oppressed through institutions and individuals on a daily basis. If we stand under Christ, we stand for those that are different than us. We live to help those that can’t always help themselves. We don’t blame them. We don’t stop loving them. What would Jesus do?
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