November 28, 2012 Print Edition by ORU Oracle

New Heights Southland Conference player of the week Warren Niles looks to help his teammates find success in their new league.

Oral Roberts University • Nov. 28, 2012 Tulsa, Okla. • Vol. 47, No. 8 www.oruoracle.com Photo by Austin St. John

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LIFE

Chapel makes a little too much joyful noise Recent studies show sound levels sometimes exceed safe decibel levels

By Greg Brown Many students are losing more than their sinful ways at ORU’s required chapel services. A recent study on campus suggests that the decibel levels at the services each week could lead to hearing loss among attendees. Professor Roger Bush, who teaches Audio Principles and Advanced Audio Principles for the Multimedia Institute on campus, knows quite a bit about the effects of powerful sound waves on the ear. He is also a chief audio engineer at a radio station and mixing soundboards for churches. “Dr. Boyd called me over to his office about a year and a half ago with a problem. He had some faculty complaining that it was too loud in chapel,” Bush said. “…I basically told him that it was a no-win situation that he was in. If you make it soft enough for the older people, it becomes too quiet for the younger.” Those who criticized the loud chapel services may have had good reason to do so. Recently, decibel levels have been taken in different areas of Christ’s Chapel, and the results were shocking. Averaging over 90 decibels and peaking at over 100, the sounds emitted from the worship team on stage are capable of producing hearing loss over time. Regardless of where an individual sits, the levels are high, though it does vary from place to place. The floor seating is worse than the balcony seating.

According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, any noises heard over 85 decibels can cause hearing damage, and the risk for this damage increases with increased regularity of exposure to louder sounds. But it is not only the faculty who noticed this potentially dangerous phenomenon; students have also noticed the loud music used during services. Senior history major Daniel Beard said that the level “needs to be adjusted.” “At least once a week at chapel,” Beard said, “I come away with a headache and my ears hurting because of the pressure they experienced.” In recent months, Beard has started wearing earplugs to counter the booming sounds he experiences in chapel. After conducting loudness tests of his own, Bush offered up a solution to the problem, by lowering the levels some. “You have to understand what the worship part is for; Is this a rock concert for the students, or are we giving to God?” Bush said. “If we’re giving it to God, God’s not deaf.” Bush said that loudness can sometimes be “wrongly used in churches.” “You need to put out a box of hearing protection; the little foam pieces you can put in your ears,” Bush said. “That way, people who do have sensitive hearing, have that at their disposal. That’s about the only way you can win this. Beard offered up a similar solution. “I would bring in a professional consulting business with a decibel reader to measure and see just how loud they need to go,” Beard said,“and using that, set a hard level that they cannot surpass during service.”

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Sound decibel levels have been recorded at 90-100 in chapel.

THE ORACLE • Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2012 • 3

L.A. artist’s work chosen for new student center By Kristy McCreary The new Armand Hammer AlumniStudent Center will display artwork from L.A. artist Tyler Ramsey. The former Tulsa resident has collaborated multiple times with Toms Shoes, the company known for its business model in which with every pair of shoes purchased, a pair is given to a child in need, one for one. A new series of Ramsey Toms is coming out soon. “I have been blessed to have joined the Toms movement,” Ramsey said in a recent interview.

Ramsey has created artwork for the Armand Hammer Foundation in the past and was asked to participate in the new Alumni-Student Center at ORU. “The Armand Hammer Foundation has been incredibly generous towards Oral Roberts University,” Ramsey said. “And I’ve been honored to play a very small part in the new student center, which I am ecstatic to see open.” Ramsey said that he views the artwork he is creating for the AlumniStudent Center not as separate works, but as one giant piece of art.

Official opening planned Feb. 1 By Kristy McCreary Construction on the Armand Hammer Alumni-Student Center is close to being finished. Tim Philley, executive vice president and chief operations officer, can’t give an exact date, but estimates the building will have a soft opening the week of Jan. 21 to test electrical and plumbing systems. Public Relations Director Jeremy Burton said the official opening will take place during homecoming, immediately following chapel Feb. 1. Philley said students and faculty should “understand that anything can go south,” causing a delay on the dates. The screens which surround the building contain a specialized lighting system. The glass spine of the building also has LED lights, so it can glow. The building can actually glow blue and gold during game days, and the lights can alternate back and forth. Parking in lower lot will re-open within the same time frame as the soft and hard openings. The parking lot still has to be re-striped and commuter restricted parking added. There won’t be many commuter spots, but there will be some to ensure on-campus students are not parking in the commuter’s lot.

4 • Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2012 • THE ORACLE

“I am drawn to the school’s tremendous fountain of faith,” Ramsey said. “And this will be my response to a school with an intense and exciting history and future.” The paintings will express what Ramsey felt while listening to President Mark Rutland speak about the future of the building. “King David dancing and celebrating through the streets comes to mind,” Ramsey said. “I’ve always had tremendous respect for the impact Oral Roberts made, and the university has always seemed a special part of Tulsa. Those hands!” Ramsey was born in San Francisco, but lived in Oklahoma City until second grade. After that he moved to Tulsa where he lived until 1996. Ramsey attended Grimes, Jenks and Holland Hall schools. “I love Tulsa, and I’m proud to be from

Oklahoma,” Ramsey said. Ramsey moved to the West Coast right after graduation. He turned down Bear Stearns, a former investment banking and brokerage firm on Wall Street, and raced to California before his parents could stop him. Ramsey said he felt very fortunate to be friends with all of the Hammer family, and that their faith “has been an inspiration” to him. “Hammer is one of the most respected names in art,” Ramsey said. “Armand Hammer has made a cultural and philanthropic impact that only similar titans as Rockefeller and Carnegie might relate.” ORU will soon open the door to this new building named after Armand Hammer. The name has no relation to any kind of cleaning supply. Armand Hammer was actually a well-known philanthropist, business

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Artist Tyler Ramsey personally knows the Armand Hammer family and was chosen by them to create the artwork for the new AlumniStudent Center that bears the major donor’s name. owner and manager of Occidental Petroleum. He was also known for his close ties to the Soviet Union. The Hammer Foundation is now run by Michael Armand

Hammer, the only grandson of Armand Hammer. Michael Hammer is no longer a part of Occidental Petroleum, and has dedicated his time and efforts to philanthropy.

‘Scandalous’ evangelist hits Broadway Religion News Service NEW YORK (RNS) — “Scandalous: The Life and Trials of Aimee Semple McPherson” debuted Nov. 15 as the first Broadway musical about the showbizsavvy revivalist whose ministry was rocked by scandal in the 1920s. It’s also the first Broadway show with a book and lyrics written by ORU alumna Kathie Lee Gifford, and it marks the first time the Foursquare Foundation, which supports Pentecostal ministries, has invested in a Broadway show. Gifford, who has worked on the musical for 12 years, said it’s a story well suited to Broadway. While McPherson may be known for allegations that she faked her kidnapping, she was nonetheless a pioneer. She began traveling the country and leading revivals before women had the right to vote. Her Angelus Temple in Los Angeles was an early mega-church. She was one of the first women to receive a broadcast license, hobnobbed with celebrities and appeared on Broadway. The church she founded in the 1920s grew into The Foursquare Church, which now claims almost 8 million members worldwide.

RNS Photo by Jeremy Daniel

Andrew Samonsky appears as Kenneth Ormiston and Carolee Carmello as Aimee in a scene from the new Broadway musical “Scandalous.” “McPherson was the most famous evangelist or revivalist in the 1920s, ‘30s and ‘40s,” said Matthew Sutton, author of “Aimee Semple McPherson and the Resurrection of Christian America.” “Every American living in that period knew who she was.” Gifford’s decades-long fascination with McPherson began when she first heard about her while attending ORU. “I remember thinking,’No one could’ve lived a life like that,’” she said. Gifford, who was co-host of “Live! With Regis & Kathie Lee,” for 15 years,

said she did not write the musical as an act of evangelism. Yet she hopes audiences will be inspired to recognize their individual value. Several times in the show, McPherson’s character says to another, “If you have a pulse, you have a purpose.” “What I love about Aimee is that she got dirty for her faith,” Gifford said. “She went into brothels and bars where no ‘legitimate lady’ would have been seen. She went because there were hurting people there. In that sense, she’s a far better Christian than I’ve ever been.”

COGIC Presiding Bishop Blake re-elected (RNS) The Church of God in Christ has re-elected Presiding Bishop Charles Blake to serve a second four-year term as head of the nation’s largest Pentecostal denomination. COGIC delegates at the

church’s 105th Holy Convocation re-elected Blake on Nov. 15. The Memphis, Tenn.-based church claims 6.5 million members and is the fifth-largest Christian denomination in the U.S. Blake, 72, is the pastor of the

24,000-member West Angeles Church Of God In Christ in Los Angeles and is a third-generation COGIC member. He was first appointed to the post in 2007 after the death of Presiding Bishop Gilbert E. Patterson.

New U.S. Congress will feature greater religious diversity (RNS) Three Buddhists, a Hindu and a “none” will be sworn in next January to the 113th Congress, reflecting the growing religious diversity of the country. Hawaii Democrat Tulsi Gabbard, an Iraq war veteran, will become the first Hindu in either chamber on Capitol Hill. She was born in American Samoa to a Catholic father and Hindu mother. Gabbard takes over the seat held by Rep. Mazie K. Hirono, who will become the first Buddhist to sit in the upper chamber. There were already two other Buddhists in the House of Representatives: Rep. Hank Johnson, a Georgia Democrat, and Rep. Colleen Hanabusa, a fellow Hawaii Democrat. An analysis of the incoming Congress by the Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life also notes that Kyrsten Sinema, an Arizona Democrat, is the first member of Congress to describe her religion as “none” -- a fast-growing category of Americans who say they have no particular religious affiliation. Her campaign said she does not consider herself an atheist but rather “secular.” Two Muslim members of the House -- Minnesota’s Keith Ellison and Indiana’s Andre Carson, both Democrats -- will return to Capitol Hill in January.

Dear ORU Family, The 1,000 Bibles you helped us purchase with your chapel offering were delivered to the rural believers on October 29th. You’ve helped us touch rural China for Jesus! Thanks for becoming the answer to their prayers! Scan the QR code for a short video expressing their joy. Stay in touch with the Voice of China and Asia on the web at www.voiceofchinaandasia.com. Jonathan Brooks, ‘79, ‘85 President

FEATURES

November 1962: Trustees of Oral Roberts Ministries found the world’s ﬁrst charismatic, academic university.

University founding: A divine moment becomes golden ORU began 50 years ago this week when the regents, board of trustees and president were installed

dozers are moving tons of earth and leveling off the ground around three university buildings. A beehive of activity – drapes going up Editor’s note: The following article, written by in the dining hall; rooms in William C. Armstrong (father of current Oracle faculty dormitory being furnished adviser W. Kevin Armstrong), was headlined “Divine with linens and nameplates Moment” and appeared in the February 1963 issue of for coming guests. Abundant Life magazine, published by Oral Roberts SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1962 Evangelistic Association. It is reprinted here with the All afternoon trustees and regents and their wives permission of OREA. Some portions have been omitted for are arriving for this historical meeting. … They are space purposes; otherwise, no words have been changed. greeting each other with a “Holy Ghost” hug in the hallway of the dormitory. Just a building yesterday, the Here is the eyewitness account of the historic dormitory is transformed by the presence and the felmoments of the founding of Oral Roberts Univerlowship of its first occupants. I see a sense of mission sity. For three days, November 25, 26, 27, 1962, the on the face of these chosen men of God. … Board of Trustees and the Board of Regents and their Opening Service, Sunday Night: … Brother Robwives lived on campus, dined in the cafeteria, went to erts opens up a new understanding of the Holy Comclasses, held their first business session, attended sermunion to the group. He points it out as a positive, vices, and were installed officially with Brother (Oral) victorious statement – a point of contact for rememRoberts, Dr. R.O. Corvin, and Lee Braxton as foundbering Christ and receiving healing for the body. ers of this miracle university. Following the message, Brother (Bob) DeWeese SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1962 serves the Holy Communion to everyone present. There is great excitement here at the university. Brother (Demos) Shakarian, spokesman for the Workers are getting things ready for the regents who Board of Trustees, addresses the regents: “This is a are coming tomorrow for a three-day meeting. Bullmiracle of God. What will happen from tonight on can very well shape this whole world. … You will never be the same after tonight. “This will be something that will never leave you because it is stored in Heaven. In this hour of great problems in the world, the world is going mad and going in every direction. The world is reckless. It’s time we get reckless with God – to take this message to the world. And I don’t know a better place than right here to get started – to send my boy and your boys and girls and thousands of others like them, to give Oral Roberts University Archives them the opportunity to The Rev. Oral Roberts teaches the first ORU class in November 1962 to the have the finest education trustees and regents. The lecture topic was baptism with the Holy Spirit.

6 • Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2012 • THE ORACLE

in a Holy Ghost atmosphere.” … Brother Roberts joins hands with the men and leads them in singing “Onward Christian Soldiers.” Testimonies spring up all over the group. A seal is put on the service by the speaking in tongues in praise to God. Brother Roberts closes the service in a charge to the regents. “You are the founding regents. We found the university and we bring it into existence by the leading of the Holy Spirit. I charge you to have the Holy Ghost at the center of it. It’s got to be first quality, nothing second best. We’ve got to build great for God. The Holy Ghost must be our guide.” MONDAY , NOVEMBER 26, 1962 This is the first class conducted in the university. Oral Roberts is the teacher, Dr. R.O. Corvin is the advisor, and the regent and trustees are the first students. “This whole physical universe has a spiritual basis,” Brother Roberts tells them. “It was created by God out of something that cannot be seen. The strength of the university really consists of something that no one can see. It is like the blowing of that rushing mighty wind that came in the Upper Room on Pentecost Morning when the Holy Spirit descended.” … Brother Roberts describes the experience of the baptism with the Holy Ghost, “When we receive the baptism, the greatest force that ever happened in us has begun. It starts something. It’s a cause, as well as an effect. At that moment when the Holy Spirit speaks by faith, the deal is consummated and instantly the person is in a new dimension. He has a release of his inner being that cannot be described. “When a man really has the Holy Spirit and can speak in the Spirit every day, it constantly cleanses him out and empties him and releases him until his real self is released in God. You talk about inner healing, that’s what speaking in tongues can do. “When one can pray in the Spirit, praise in the Spirit and edify himself, then he can stand up and speak in his own language and his words have power. They move out and touch people’s hearts.” … Brother Roberts continues, “I want us to have this experience of speaking in the Spirit and practice it for the glory of God. I want the students to come to this university to have this. We’re interested in more than turning out engineers, business administrators,

Members of Oral Roberts University Trustees, Board of Regents and Oral Roberts Evangelistic Association pose for a Nov. 26, 1962 photo. lawyers, school teachers, musicians. We’re interested in turning out men and women of God – every one of them a soul winner.” Monday Afternoon, Business Meeting: … The regents attend their first business session with Chairman Lee Braxton presiding. There is a discussion of the duties of the regents and what their legal position is. Dr. John D. Messick, former dean and president of several colleges and appointed by the President of the United States as analyst on a federal committee on education, gives many valuable guides to the administration of the new university. … Monday Evening Service: These men are so full of the Spirit, it seems that they are all ready to do some preaching tonight. One after the other, they come forward and tell what is on their hearts. And it is good to hear. There is an unusual moving of the Holy Spirit. TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1962 This is the crowning moment of these never-to-beforgotten meetings – the installation of the officers and regents of Oral Roberts University. These have been moments filled with divine destiny – three days where the Holy Spirit was continually in evidence and men were brought into complete and perfect harmony. Oral Roberts addresses the newly elected founding regents: “The Holy Spirit has made you overseers of the university. Now the Board of Trustees gives you the authority and the power to carry on this university for the winning of souls, for the training of spiritual leaders, for the lifting of high standards in Christian education… and to launch this tremendous ministry of training to last until the coming of the Lord.

ORU board of regents and OREA members include front row from left: S. Lee Braxton, chairman of the Board of Regents

Carl Williams, regent, well drilling, Scottsdale, Ariz.

Rev. Oscar Moore, trustee

Homer Moxley, regent, road contractor, Sweet Home, Oreg.

Dr. John Barton, trustee, dentist, Hartford, Conn.

Velmer Gardner, regent, motels, Orange, Calif.

Demos Shakarian, trustee, dairyman, Downey, Calif.

Don Locke, regent, wholesale plumbing, Oklahoma City

Third row from left:

Oral Roberts, evangelist, Tulsa

Jack Linn, regent, hatchery owner, Puyallup, Wash.

R.O. Corvin, ORU chancellor, Tulsa

Maurice Dary, regent, lumber, Redlands, Calif.

Nick Timko, trustee, tool and die manufacturer, Detroit

J.B. Hawthorne, regent, machinery, San Diego, Calif.

Shannon Vandruﬀ, regent, real estate developer, Anaheim, Calif.

Ray Dotson, regent, developer, Tulsa, Okla.

Fred Waugh Sr., regent, real estate developer, Orange, Calif.

Byon A. Jones, regent, minister, Ocala, Fla.

Thomas D. Irvin, regent, transfer and storage, Memphis, Tenn.

Deward Smith, regent, automobile dealer, Washington, N.C.

Ernest Simpson, regent, builder and developer, Glasgow, Ky.

John Wellons, regent, candy manufacturer, Dunn, N.C.

Second Row from left:

Ralph Quest, regent, concrete, Rochelle, Ill.

W. Erby Shaw, regent, real estate developer, Greenville, S.C.

Michael Cardone Sr., regent, automotive products, Philadelphia

Robert Bohler, regent, manufacturer, Augusta, Ga.

Nicholas Cardone, regent, automotive products, Philadelphia

Vep Ellis, regent, evangelist, Fontana, Calif.

Darrell Hon, regent, motels, Baton Rouge, La.

Frank Foglio, regent, real estate, Fontana, Calif.

Carl H. Wilson, regent, manufacturer, Richmond Hills, Ont.

E.W. Jackson, regent, insurance, Madisonville, Ky.

Larry Snelgrove, regent, real estate, Toronto

Henry Krause, regent, farm machinery, Hutchinson, Kan.

Not pictured:

Robert Powell, regent, motels, Erie, Pa.

Walter Block, regent, manufacturer, Kenosha, Wis.

Albert Seitz, regent, manufacturer, Mequon, Wis.

Lamar Johnston, regent, drilling, Wichita Falls, Texas

Whether His coming be one day, one year, a hundred or a thousand years you will see to it by God’s anointing and guidance that this university will stand until the Lord comes. God give you help and strength.” …The regents now vote on the new president of ORU. The unanimous choice is Oral Roberts. Brother Henry Krause comes forward with the trustees to lay hands on the new president. ... The new president appoints his new chancellor of the university, Dr. R.O. Corvin, and the regents immediately vote unanimous-

ly in favor of the selection. Several men are testifying what these meetings have meant to them. One is Carl Wilson, Canadian manufacturer, who had just received the baptism with the Holy Spirit as other regents prayed for him after the meeting last night. … “I’ve had a feeling building up in these meetings. Then last night as Shannon Vandruff was reading Scripture to me, everything broke loose. It’s the greatest experience I’ve ever felt. I feel like going back and licking my weight in wildcats.”

THE ORACLE • Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2012 • 7

Professors on Pandora What music do your profs listen to?

By Chelsey Butler What music do you think your professors listen to? Some of their Pandora stations may surprise you. Dr. Kenneth Weed, biology and chemistry department chair, enjoys a variety of musical styles. “I listen to classical almost exclusively,” said Weed, “mostly Rachmaninoff and piano.” When Weed goes to Pandora, he listens to bands such as MUTEMATH, Switchfoot and U2, but he particularly enjoys ‘80s pop. “I absolutely love Wham,” Weed said, “and I like Mannheim Steamroller’s Christmas music. “I do like metal, but more of the Industrial Metal sound,” Weed said. “I like a lot of crazy sounding music.” Weed likes sounds from the ‘80s,

which means he must enjoy Christian music from that era, right? Not quite. “I don’t like the ‘80s Christian music, surprisingly,” said Weed. “I love the Sweet Comfort Band, Stryper and that kind of Christian rock sound. Maybe I’m just stuck in that decade.” Weed also enjoys modern Christian pop. “There’s one girl I really like right now: Jamie Grace,” said Weed. “I love her sweet sound.” Up on the fifth floor of the Graduate Center, Dr. Paul Vickery is a professor in the history department, and his musical tastes are rooted to his home here in Oklahoma. “I moved here 25 years ago,” Vickery said. “And to get my Okie card, I had to memorize the lyrics to 25 country songs.” Vickery’s musical tastes vary. On any given day, Vickery can be caught

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listening to classical music all the way to modern country. “I love all kinds of music, every kind,” said Vickery. “I can’t think of a kind I don’t like.” Vickery confessed that his favorite type of music, however, is country. “I love to listen to country music to hype up in the car,” said Vickery. Some of his favorite artists include George Strait, Carrie Underwood, Tim McGraw, Zac Brown Band and some Jason Aldean. One genre Vickery does not enjoy as much is hip-hop, though he has admitted to occasionally enjoying a song or two by Lecrae. In contrast to Vickery, Professor Carlos Chalé is not a fan of country. His tastes contain more Christian artists and some classic rock. “I enjoy Lighthouse, Rich Mullins and Phil Driscoll,” said Chalé. “But, my favorite artist is Keith Green.” As the coordinator of the Hispanic Center on campus, it is no surprise that Chalé also enjoys Latin music, especially the sounds of rock guitarist

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Carlos Santana. “Not always, but rarely I will listen to The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, The Monkees and The Mamas & the Papas,” said Chalé. “Music fills a lot of different voids,” Chalé said. “So when choosing music, you always have to consider what you want and what you need.”

Not all campus bathrooms are created equal By Jessica Sherwood Bathrooms. You can’t avoid them. They are a necessity. The need for the bathroom is already established. However, the bathroom’s location, scent, atmosphere, cleanliness and occupant behavior vary. In order to gain a better understanding of bathroom culture, let’s explore our own bathroom environments right here at ORU. The playing field for bathrooms on campus is not even. The atmosphere and environment on the bathroom depends on gender. Some female bathrooms, such as the female GC 3rd floor bathrooms, offer four stalls, chairs to sit on upon entering, flowers in vases and hand lotion. Male bathrooms, such as the bathrooms on LRC 1, provide

only one stall and one urinal without any extra frippery. “The girls always have a couch in their bathroom…I don’t know why. Why do you need a couch in a bathroom?” Professor Mark Labash said. “If I were going to relax, it certainly wouldn’t be in a stinky bathroom.” Scent plays a large role in a student’s view of individual bathrooms. “When I’m in one of the LRC bathrooms I feel like I’m in a smelly prison and you feel like you never know what could happen in there,” said junior Mary Earls. “You might as well get a dentist mask and maybe even some goggles. It’s better to be safe than sorry.” However, this opinion is not shared by other students concerning the LRC bathrooms. For junior Alec Hill, privacy is a

higher priority. “The bathroom by the Oracle office on LRC 1 is a beautiful place for men…” Hill said. “You won’t be encroached upon or judged on what goes on behind closed doors.” Other students are not affected by the privacy factor in bathrooms. Despite the often long lines in the chapel bathrooms before and after services, students still choose these bathrooms. “I really like the overall friendly feel in the chapel,” Earls said. “It’s like you’re getting Jesus everywhere you go.” Junior Olivia Whaley also appreciates the chapel bathrooms. “The mirror in the chapel bathroom is so handy,” Whaley said. “It’s perfect for girls.” Amenities are also an influential factor in deciding which bathroom to use.

Junior Nathanael Robertson enjoys using the upper Prayer Tower bathroom and the GC 6th-floor bathroom because of the toilet paper. “The toilet paper in upper Prayer Tower and the GC 6th floor is better than other bathrooms around campus,” Robertson said. Some would like the high quality toilet paper all over campus. “We need better toilet paper at ORU,” sophomore Nick Frascini said. “You just don’t get the proper care you need. It must be even worse for girls.” Bathroom connections with important people also push some students to seek bathrooms off the common path. “I love the bathroom on GC 6 because it’s big, clean, has funky wall paper, the urinals run

Where do you like to “go”?

constantly (creating nice noise to drown out sounds), and, most of all, it is always empty. Or if there happens to be someone there, it’s like Dr. Fagin or someone important, which is always exciting.” In other cases, not so tolerable bathrooms are made more bearable through students’ personal handiwork. Hill said, “The men’s bathrooms are akin to hell. However, we have a sign outside the bathroom of the picture of our bathroom chairman. He is holding his finger up and it says, ‘Keep it clean and none of that weird stuff.’ We also have designated stalls for number one and number two.” Wherever you find your resting place on campus, take a different route and discover a new bathroom today. You never know what you might find.

“My favorite bathroom is a tie be“The worst bathroom on campus tween the GC 6th floor and the upper is EMR Youngblood because there is level of the Prayer Tower.” shaved hair all over the floor and garbage everywhere.” Nathanael Robertson (junior)

“My least favorite bathroom is in “My favorite bathroom is on top of Saga because every time I go in there, the Prayer Tower. It is always so clean it’s clogged, dirty, and has some sort of and nice and private.” liquid on the floor.” Jesse Wagner (sophomore)

“My least favorite is the bathroom in Saga because the floors are sticky most of the time.”

“My least favorite is the bathroom “My favorite bathroom is in the on LRC 2. One of the toilets is literally welcome center because it is clean, concrooked and just about faces the stall venient, private and isolated.” wall.” Skylar Ray (junior)

“My favorite bathroom is the one in Zoppelt because it tends to be the most quiet and clean.”

Norma Ramos (freshman)

Merry Christmas from us to you Christmas wouldn’t be the same without the giving and receiving of gifts each year. Different types of gifts find value in the hearts of ORU students. “My most prized Christmas gift is the pearls my grandma gave me. She gives pearls to each granddaughter when she turns 16,” said senior education major Juelie Scanlon. For other students, warm nostalgia fills their memory when they ponder past Christmas gifts. “My favorite Christmas gift was a 3-and-a-half-story Barbie house when I was about 6 years old,” said sophomore Rosina Albanese. “It was taller than me!” Other Christmas gifts are held highly esteemed because they invoke talent. “My best Christmas gift was my mandolin because I love playing it,” said junior Bruce Dixon. “My sister and my mom bought it for me when I was 19.” Christmas gifts come in all different shapes and sizes, but some of the most valuable ones are found in the least expected packages.

Gift ideas for Mom: • Anything from Bath and Body Works – You can’t go wrong with a lotion, perfume or shower gel (Males - ask a clerk to help you with scents). • Jewelry – Give her a chance to dress up and go out. • Foot Spa – She is always on her feet and needs a break. • Christmas card containing a hand-written note – Mamas always want to be appreciated. • Coupons to clean the house – Give her a real holiday.

Gift ideas for Dad: • Tool kit – He can always use another device to organize his many gadgets. • Sears gift card – Sears has everything. Enough said. • Tie – A patterned or brightly colored tie may be just the thing to add a bit of spice to your dad’s everyday life. • A framed picture of the family – Your dad can always use a frame for the office to remind him of what he values the most. • Two tickets to a game, concert or performance – Show your dad you know what his interests are and that quality time with him is important to you.

“Every Christmas since I was born we wouldn’t get a tree until Christmas Eve, and so we would go to church and then come back home and go out into the forest behind our house and cut down a real tree. My dad would bring the tree in, and we would set it up and cut off all the [branches] sticking out of it and start decorating it with every light, every garland, anything we had. We leave it up for 12 days of Christmas and then we take it down.” -Sophomore Kaylee Galagher, drama, television and film major

“On Christmas Eve I make homemade pizzas with my parents, and then after that we read the Christmas story, the story of Jesus’ birth. Then, we open presents and go to bed, and in the morning Santa comes!” - Freshman Ellie Fields, special education major

“We always see the Rhema lights and take a lot of photos, and we also try to go to the Victory Christmas play across the street. I’m usually not home on Christmas because we travel. Like last year I went to Florida, and this year I’m going to California.” - Junior Michelle Kardaji, graphic design video major

Area holiday sights await those who get off campus By Greg Brown As Prayer Garden lovers scramble to escape the recently lit Christmas lights, ORU students may begin to look for new sights around the Tulsa area. Different places in the metropolitan area offer Christmas lights and decorations that can be accessed by students hunting for something to solidify their Christmas spirit. Boasting the largest collection of Christmas lights in the state, Rhema Bible Church located on West Kenosha (71st Street) past North Aspen (145th) in Broken Arrow, yearly compiles an impressive collection of 2 million lights. Admission is free, so even students on a budget can go experience this local staple in the holiday season. The surrounding neighborhoods also flaunt exciting displays of seasonal cheer. The park at Utica Square, between Utica and Yorktown, is also covered in lights and students can enjoy the site of the larger-than-life nutcrackers that adorn the park, as they make a visit to Santa Claus for the expressed purpose of begging for “A” averages on semester report cards. After eating sushi, pizza or burgers in downtown’s Blue Dome District (located at 2nd St. and Elgin), students can mosey around and soak in the illustrious blue lights that cover the area. While downtown, students can see the largest Christmas tree in Oklahoma, which sits at the BOK Center. For students weary of traveling far from campus, downtown Jenks and the Philbrook museum both offer a nearby treat for the eyes. In Jenks, visitors can feast their eyes on the lights that cover various local businesses, while the Philbrook museum is home to beautiful, lightcovered gardens and gingerbread villages.

Home for holidays is no guarantee By Amber Smith Whether warming up by the fire at grandma’s house or baking cookies and trimming the tree in your own homes, Christmas is a time of reunion and celebration, but imagine literally being halfway around the world from the place you call home. One of my favorite songs has to be “I’ll be Home for Christmas,” but this simple task is a lot to ask someone whose home is in Nigeria or Ghana. ORU is a vastly diverse campus, and we know how many countries make up the student body by heart… that’s 70, in case you forgot. Many of these amazing international students will be forming new traditions by staying in the States this Christmas like Joshua Thompson, a freshman majoring in media from Nigeria, who is escaping Oklahoma’s crazy weather for sunny California to

be with family. Others will venture to dazzling places like New York City with friends and family like junior Jimin Kim from South Korea and senior Samuella Amoako-Boateng from Ghana. Still others will remain here in quaint Oklahoma. Though there are many international students who will stay in the States, there are a few who will make the journey home to be with their friends and family. Kevin Cave, an ORU grad student, is going home to Barbados, the island country of lights, to celebrate his Christmas this season. With the giving spirit of the holidays in mind, don’t be afraid to reach out to your neighbors down the hall or the person across from you in class and ask about their Christmas plans. You may just find out that they will be home alone for the holidays, and nobody deserves that.

Their home is where the hoop is By David Sauer Member of the men’s and women’s basketball team will get limited time off for Christmas break. The men’s team will only get three days, and the women’s team only four days for Christmas break due to games that take place around Christmas. The players say it can be tough, but they know it comes with playing basketball. “This is the life we chose, so I’m pretty much used to it,” said Shawn Glover. Christian Key said, “We all get along really well, so we always have fun on Christmas. You do wish you could be at home more, but your team is your family kind of, too, so that makes it a lot better.” The athletes find other sources of Christmas fun instead of being home. “When nobody’s here and we’re stuck here we cover all the lights with towels and have movie night,” Savanna Buck said. “We love not having school and just being able to play basketball and be with each other.” “If you’re not at home with the family you’ll go eat with the coaches or they’ll have food for you somewhere,” Jake Lliteras said. “They’ll do something for us.”

Have yourself a classic little adventure this Christmas By Danielle Coy This time of year brings Buddy the Elf ’s inspiring words to the hearts of many: “I thought maybe we could make gingerbread houses, and eat cookie dough, and go ice skating and maybe even hold hands.” Buddy, I think we’re all in. With Christmas just around the corner, it’s time to remember the classics — both old and new — that carry us all through finals and bring us into a place that is a little jollier and a lot more magical. Families from all around reunite. Chestnuts roast on an open fire as familiar laughter warms the heart. Think of “It’s a Wonderful Life” and the scene where George Bailey’s guardian angel, Clarence, says, “Strange, isn’t it? Each man’s life touches so many other lives. When he isn’t around he leaves an awful hole, doesn’t he?” Even a little boy like Kevin McCallister from “Home Alone” explains how significant his family is to him: “This is extremely important,” Kevin says. “Will you please tell Santa that instead of presents this year, I just want my family back. No toys, nothing but Peter, Kate, Buzz, Megan, Linnie and Jeff, and my aunt and my cousins, and in a few years time, my Uncle Frank. Okay?” Christmas is the only time when a phrase that drips with this much cuteness doesn’t make us cringe. So we rewind the VHS. We want to hear Kevin say it again. The malls draw people in with their promises of Christmas sales, and according to Buddy the Elf, shops compete for the best coffee. “You did it! Congratulations! World’s best cup of coffee! Great job, everybody! It’s great to be here.” It’s your choice if you want this year’s Christmas to be an adventure. Like the conductor from “The Polar Express” said, “The thing about trains... It doesn’t matter where they’re going. What matters is deciding to get on.” Have yourself a merry little Christmas, ORU.

“Ever since we were little, on Christmas Eve, we would read the Christmas story from the Bible, and each of us kids gets to open up one Christmas present on Christmas Eve. Christmas morning we get up, and we do our stockings and have a huge breakfast. Then, we open up presents, and then the rest of the day we just spend together playing games and listening to Christmas music and singing Christmas carols. Also, every year, starting on October 1st, we start listening to Christmas music because my mom always said that one month wasn’t long enough to listen to Christmas music. So from October 1st to January 1st, there’s constantly Christmas music playing in our house.” - Freshman Joni McLeod, international community development major

SPORTS

Women reclaim Mayor’s Cup

By David Sauer ORU’s women’s basketball team defeated in-town rival Tulsa 64-53 to win the 2012 Mayor’s Cup. The win Nov. 9 at the Mabee Center was the first time since 2009 the Lady Golden Eagles have defeated Tulsa. Kevi Luper went 10 for 20 from the field and led the team with 23 points. Freshman Taylor Cooper also was huge for ORU with five three-point shots. Cooper also went 4-4 from the free throw line late in the game to help seal the win. Savannah Buck added 12 rebounds, and Jaci Bigham added six assists. ORU’s defense played well, forcing Tulsa to 33.9 percent shooting for the game and only 25 percent in the second half. The game was Misti Cussen’s first regular season contest as head coach of the Golden Eagles. The game was huge for ORU’s seniors because it was the last time they would play Tulsa in their college career. “I couldn’t take another loss to Tulsa,” Bigham said. “It meant everything. “I thought tonight, we did a good job of learning from our mistakes in the past and really coming through and working hard together and getting it done.”

12 • Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2012 • THE ORACLE

Photos by Austin St. John

Top left: Senior Jaci Bigham hoists the 2012 Mayor’s Cup, following the Golden Eagles’ 64-53 win over the University of Tulsa. Above, senior Kevi Luper is congratulated by Mayor Dewey Bartlett after she scored 23 points to pace the team. At left, Sarah Shelton drives to the basket.

Corbin Byford

The Benchwarmers These guys biding their time, waiting for chance to shine

By David Sauer Everybody has heard about the big names of ORU basketball. Damen Bell-Holter, Steven Roundtree and Warren Niles immediately come to mind. They have received extensive coverage, and all are easily recognized. But what about the lesser known players, the ones who don’t get as much time on the court but are still part of the team and still work hard to get playing time? The lack of playing time can be frustrating, but these players don’t let it bother them. They continue to work hard to earn their chance on the floor. Caleb Tannehill, a freshman guard from Bradenton, Fla. is looking to learn in his first season and continuously get better. Many would consider his height to be a disadvantage but he doesn’t see it as such. Tannehill, 5 foot 10 inches, mentioned other shorter players who have had success such as Jonathan Bluitt, 5 foot 9 inches, who led ORU in assists from 2003-2006, and is second all-time on ORU’s career assist list. Tannehill is expected to spend a lot of time on the bench this year, but he chooses to focus on learning and knowing his time will come. “It will probably get frustrating at

Caleb Tannehill

Jorden Kaufman PJ Purnell times because you obviously want to play. The reason you came here is to play basketball, and that’s why they recruit you is to come win games,” Tannehill said. “At times it could probably be frustrating but it’s a learning year and that’s how I am approaching it.” Jorden Kaufman, a freshman center from Wichita, Kans., is also an unfamiliar name. Many people just know him as the 7-foot player walking around campus. Kaufman will spend this season backing up Bell-Holter. His playing time will be determined on what BellHolter does in games. “If Damen’s playing well, I’ll probably not play as much, but if he’s not, I’ll come in for him,” Kaufman said. “I know I’m going to get playing time, but it’s all dependent on how the game is going.” Kaufman doesn’t consider it frustrating to back up Bell-Holter. “I know that I have to pay my dues and then next year I’ll be starting. But it’s all up for grabs. No position is guaranteed.” PJ Purnell, a sophomore guard from Washington, D.C., is not expecting much playing time this year. “I try not to let it get to me that I don’t play because being passionate about the game, I just want to play all the time,” Purnell said. “There have been times I get a little bit frustrated. God has brought me through some times of discouragement.”

Corbin Byford, from Velma, Okla., plays forward for the Golden Eagles. Byford spent his high school career as the superstar player on his team but now faces a season without much playing time. “It’s definitely a humbling experience. I’ve never come off the bench in a game. I’ve started every game I’ve ever played. It’s definitely going to be a different role.” But despite the change, Byford doesn’t think it will be frustrating.

“I really don’t think [it will be]. I’m just coming in here trying to work as hard as I can and do whatever I can to help the team out.” Despite not having much playing time, these players continue to work their hardest to prove they are worthy of a starting position. Some continue to play because they know they will start when the player in front of them graduates. Others do it simply for the love of the game.

THE ORACLE • Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2012 • 13

A Beard’s Farewell Still have a Harden-ed heart over deal that sent OKC Thunder phenom south? It’s part of life in a small-time market By Ryan Woods At 8 p.m. on Oct. 22, the Thunder traded James Harden to the Houston Rockets. I had sworn up and down since April with friends and coworkers that Harden would be with Oklahoma City long term. He’s too valuable and too loved by the best fans in the league. To say this was unexpected is like saying Bill Walton is expressive. The two sides had been engaged in off and on again negotiations since season’s end four months ago. The final offer was reported to be 4 years worth $53.5 million, which Harden and his agent Rob Pelinka turned down in hopes of a maximum level deal of 4 years with $60 million. Before you scream at the computer (or at the paper), consider these thoughts. First off, Harden is a stud. He’s an old school, doit-all kind of player who can lay low for the majority of the game but still take over the game in crunch time when the team needs him. Harden was the third pick in the 2009 NBA Draft and with that high of a selection, a

player normally sees max minutes his rookie season. This wasn’t the case for The Beard. He came in knowing he’d be brought off the bench as the sixth man. For many players this wouldn’t be a coveted role, given the egos that trounce around the league today. Still, James embraced the role and became part of the family, the Thunder family. As James’ development continued, the team saw an advantage late in the games when he played with the starters, much like the role of Manu

Ginobili of the Spurs. In fact, these two players resemble each other more than any other pair in the entire league. For the record, Ginobili makes $11 million a year. (shhhhh)<-don’t

14 • Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2012 • THE ORACLE

tell Harden? So why would someone who comes oﬀ the bench expect a max level contract? The answer is simple: Harden’s value is not determined by the views of the Thunder, but by what the “market” values him at. You may not value a strand of Justin Bieber’s hair at all, but what if I told you it sold at auction for over $300,000? Changes perspective right? With players it’s all about what a team would be willing to pay, given their

need. Unfortunately drugs are a much better example, but we’ll stick with the hair strand. Harden was set to become a restricted free agent the summer of 2013, and it became clear over the last year that teams were going to line up to pitch their “kitchen sink,” maximum level deal to him. So why not give him the money he’s asking for? This answer gets a bit complicated. In the NBA’s new CBA (collective bargaining agreement) it sets a luxury tax which all player contracts must not exceed for a given year. The Thunder already signed Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook to “max level” contracts, Serge Ibaka recently signed an extension for 4 years at $48 million (a hefty midlevel payday) and Kendrick Perkins is guaranteed $25.3 million over the next 3 years.

(yes, that decimal is in the right spot). Miami has three players signed to maximum level contracts: LeBron, Wade and Bosh. As far as market size, Mi-

ami ranks 7th in the country, which plays a big role in how they are able to afford these mammoth contracts. Oklahoma City isn’t in the top 10, or the top 20, or even the top 30. OKC has the 45th largest TV market in the U.S. and the 3rd smallest market for an NBA city. Sounds like a great crutch for management come negotiation time right? Exactly. Owner Clay Bennett (and his billionaire posse) cried “small market” in hopes of swaying Harden to sacrifice a few million so that the billionaires wouldn’t have to deal with this dreaded luxury tax (which actually is dreaded, it’s a buck fifty for every dollar over... so yea). In the end, the negotiations fell apart; instead of playing out this season and reconvening next summer to work things out, General Manager Sam Presti went into fullon trade mode. He had received calls for a week from Rockets General Manager Daryl Morey about a trade to land Harden if talks didn’t work out. Presti reiterated his commitment to getting a deal done with Harden, but when that didn’t happen Presti hit redial. In a matter of hours a deal was in place that sent Harden along with Cole Aldrich, Lazar Heyward and Daequan Cook to the Houston Rockets. Continued on page 15

Continued from page 14 In return, the Thunder received Kevin Martin, Jeremy Lamb, two first-round picks and one secondround pick in the 2013 draft. Many times during negotiations true colors are portrayed; the same can be said for this one. For the Thunder organization, they stayed true to themselves and their identity: no single player is greater than the whole. For Harden, the boy’s gettin’ paid. He clearly wanted the most money possible, and in Houston he’ll get it. Each team is given the option to sign one player to a five-year deal and Harden is Houston’s guy. He received a contract of five years, worth close to $80 million. If you’re doing the math at home, that’s $26.5 million more than OKC offered him (close to 30 percent). Doesn’t that seem like a bit much? The answer here is very simply, YES. Daryl Morey has been after a top 20 player for the last five years and has become more and more desperate with every Stern-vetoed trade (sorry I had to). He was ready to give a declining Pau Gasol the max last summer, as well as an unhealthy Dwight Howard this summer. There’s no doubt this contract is far-fetched, but Houston gave a resounding “YOLO.” Google Jeremy Lin’s contract and record how long you laugh... I’ll set the line at one minute. It’s just the way of the world for Houston and to no avail. This year’s Rockets won’t make the playoffs, just like last year’s Rockets didn’t, but hey they’ve got the best beard in sports. In all seriousness though, Harden is a great piece to build around for Houston, and we’ll look back at this trade as being the start of change there. As for the Thunder, they will fill Harden’s role with Kevin Martin in the short term and will hope to go forward with Jeremy Lamb. Overlooked in all of this is that Sam Presti got Perry Jones III and Jeremy Lamb in the same 4 months. Both players were top 10 prospects heading into their senior seasons. It’s really amazing how aggressive and efficient Presti can be; now he has 2 firstround picks and an expiring contract in Kevin Martin to play with (seriously, when are other general managers going to learn?). Make no mistake about it, though, Oklahoma City took a step back, but will look to capitalize on Harden’s yield and take the ultimate step for years to come. As much of a fan favorite and great teammate he was - not to mention a flat out pleasure to watch - Harden’s production is replaceable. For Thunder fans, it’s their first taste of small-market reality since the team arrived. It’s never fun to lose one of “your guys,” but great things will come from this deal for both sides. And that’s the best type of deal; a win-win.

Photos by Austin St. John

The ORU men’s team tuned up with a 92-69 exhibition win over Oklahoma Wesleyan on Nov. 5 (left) with Korey Billbury scoring 19. They followed that nine days later with a 90-41 win over St. Gregory’s, with Warren Niles (above) leading the rout and Corbin Biford (top left) chipping in 8 points.

BASKETBALL

THE ORACLE • Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2012 • 15

SCENE

Female fall and winter fashion trends By McKensie Garber With all of your homework, you probably haven’t had much time to pour over magazines and keep up with the latest fall and winter designs… although you probably have clicked over to Pinterest when you should’ve been studying. Well after perusing through major fashion magazines such as Vanity Fair and Vogue, I’m here to inform you about the latest fall and winter trends designers are creating.

Color Blocking The hot colors this fall, aside from our staples of brown and black, are red, emerald green, blue and mustard yellow. The absolute “it” color this fall is oxblood, also called Chianti, which is a wine-colored mix between burgundy and red. A new trend this season is called “color blocking.” This pairing of vibrant colors keeps things bright and cheery, which means you can’t go wrong! With color blocking, you can use one solid eyecatching piece to unify a mixed assortment of prints. Designer Marc Jacob took color blocking to the runway this season. Freshman Victoria Ramos is color blocking with some of fall’s hottest colors.

16 • Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2012 • THE ORACLE

Baroque “Baroque” is the No. 1 fall trend, according to fashion journalists across the country. This look includes any type of dress, blouse or blazer with ornate embroidery and anything gold. It has a very royal look to it and begs for cameo jewelry. Dolce and Gabbana brought this look to the runway this fall. Sophomore Sierra Brewington models the regal look with a baroque skirt and cameo jewelry. Photos by Chandler Branzell

The Chambray Shirt and Cheetah A collared denim button-up shirt, also known as a chambray shirt, is the perfect staple for everyone’s closet. You can mix it with darker colored denim jeans, layer it under sweaters and jackets, or leave it unbuttoned over another shirt. Gucci utilizes the chambray shirt with dark denim jeans. A consistent trend throughout this season’s fashion is the accentuation of cheetah. Designers such as Louis Vuitton and Ralph Lauren are prominently adding cheetah into their season designs.

Junior Tiﬀany Rogers combines the best of both worlds by layering the chambray shirt with a leather jacket and accenting her outfit with cheetah flats. This look was inspired by Lucky Brand.

Sweaters The indispensable fashion item of this season is sweaters! Over-sized sweaters and sweater vests can give any outfit that cozy coffee shop look. Who doesn’t love that? Designer Tommy Hilfiger is utilizing sweaters into this season’s line with bomber vests and jackets and equestrian boots with leg warmers peeping out the top. One of the main looks this fall is a large sweater overlaying a dress with tights underneath and kneehigh or ankle boots, accessorized with leg warmers and a scarf. Senior Kayla Nichols models the cozy look with a tweed jacket, scarf, button-up shirt and knee-length skirt.

Accessories Studded purses are in. Jewelry serves as statement pieces. Big, chunky necklaces that are studded or even metal collars can be worn to top off an outfit. Hot shoes this season are loafer heels, sparkly or cap-toed oxfords and anything studded. Most popular are ankle boots and equestrian or knee-high boots with leg warmers peeping out the top. Need more leg warmers? Cut the sleeves off an old sweater.

Here Natalie Spack wears a shirt with a pop of gold and seals the deal with a fur vest. She accessorizes her outfit with a studded purse and leather riding boots.

Photos By: Chandler Branzell

THE ORACLE • Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2012 • 17

It may be the end of the world as we know it By Ian Harrup Christmas day is coming up, but something is coming before that: the Mayan calendar prediction that the world will end Dec. 21. While most students at ORU disagree with the idea of the world ending according to the Mayans, many weighed in on what they would do if that day were their last day on earth.

Caleb Lutz :“I would tell people to keep going. I’d pass on what I can, speak into their lives,.” Kyle Crawley: “Spend it with family; do things I never did before, like skydiving.” Nathan Goelzer: “I would get all my guns, go to the shooting range and shoot all day long. Let it come, let’s not fear and I’ll shoot my guns in peace.” Josh Reichers: “I’m torn. I don’t want to waste it; spend time with families, trying to tell people about Jesus. That’s the important thing; everything else is selfish. “ Seth Swank: I would go base-jumping off a cliff. Justin Lane: “I would watch the Hobbit. I would have no way of knowing if that would be my last day, with my girlfriend. Donate all my money to the Oracle.”

Elisabeth Lasseter: “Go to France, go to the top of the Eiffel Tower.” Kevin Santos: “Get all my family and friends together, chill, have a Lord of the Rings marathon, and see The Hobbit.” Braden Anderson: Skydive with the people I love the most.

Courtney Hayden: “Drop out of school and travel.”

Christie Weakly: “Do illegal stuff, go skydiving without a parachute.”

Brian Boyd: “Spend the day with family; what can you do in 24 hours? You’re stuck wherever you are; where will you go in that time period?”

Brandon Braun: “Go fly a fighter jet without knowing how.”

Caleb Barnaby: “Make my way to Canada, see my mom, probably try to kiss a woman one last time.” Frank Whittaker: “Race around in my coupe Mercury.” Darnell Darlin: “Sing.” Serena Sanchez: “Go to Disneyland.”

Internet Photo

The Mayan calendar predicts the world’s demise on Dec. 21, 2012. That, however, seems to contradict the Bible prophey that “No one knows about that day or hour.”

Kat Korpi: “I’m torn between skydiving and seeing the family; maybe I’ll take them all skydiving.” Whether or not the world actually does end on that day, many people have had their lives put in perspective at the prospect of knowing when the world ends. Matthew 24:36 says, “No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.” We can all rest assured on that, but at the very least, the lines for skydiving are going to be very long Dec. 20.

18 • Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2012 • THE ORACLE

Providence OPC Tulsa A new, reformed church just two miles east of ORU

Life-changing Preaching Orthodox Worship Reformed Faith Dynamic Love everything necessary for life and godliness

Pastor Jim Stevenson

ORU alumni: Bob Getchell and Randy Pickard invite you to come and worship

Sundays @ 10:30 am Holland Hall’s Chapel

5666 E. 81st Street, Tulsa, OK 74137 (918) 704-0124 www.providencetulsa.org

Subjectively Objective: A product or a purpose? By Nathan Porter

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

and upbringing are wonderful, at times I was listening it can be easy to feel like nothing more to an older gentle- than a product. man speak the other For years I saw my life experiences day and he said as a series of fortunate events that something I can’t added even more objectivity to the lens seem to stop think- through which I saw the world. But ing about. at times I can’t help but feel that my This old man experiences really are an assembly line, told me his experiences and upbringing continually adding biased pieces to the made him the man he is today. At first I manufactured product that is the life of didn’t think much of the statement. Nathan Porter. As a college student, the thought of The true irony is that I’ve been going home for Christmas break is eas- convinced my experiences will give me ily my biggest motivation the last three clear sight. I’m told that the depths of weeks of school. life’s experiences make me less prone to Whether you love or despise your bias, not more. It seems that this is the upbringing, going back to the enviparadox of all human understanding. ronment you were raised in makes it Humanity has always been brildifficult not to liantly ignorant, agree with the If subjectivity is painfully real and certainly uncertain, old man’s correctly incorrect. objectivity is blissfully ideal, the comment. If subjectivity is undeniable truth is that we’re all Although painfully real and subjectively objective. initially the objectivity is blissstatement was a comforting thought, fully ideal, the undeniable truth is that it eventually evolved into a polarizing we’re all subjectively objective. question. Over the course of history, smart That is: am I merely a product of my men have exposed how man is limited environment? by space and time, bound by feelings A wise man once told me that our and emotions and constantly creating lives are like quilts, slowly patched doctrines out of our own subjective together by our experiences. On the experiences. In reality we’re only adding surface, this analogy seems accurate. patches to our quilted lives. There’s a reason I appreciate the This is a somber reality to go home metaphors of Tupac over Shakespeare, to. watch basketball more than cricket and But what if there’s more? prefer fried chicken over rice and beans. What if there’s one thing smart men It’s because these preferences are all have habitually neglected? elements of the environment I was born What if beyond all the subjective into. patches of our quilted lives, there is Still, I can’t help but wonder- if I an objective needle threading them all was born in rural Montana would my together? musical preference be the same? Or This Christmas I’d like to believe better yet, if I was born in Johannesthat. burg, South Africa, would I still play Despite my experiences, I’d like the sports I do today? to believe that my life isn’t merely a Or even more, if I was born in Iran, quilted product, subjectively manufacwhich ancient book would I deem tured in the world, but rather a divinely sacred? hand-wrapped gift, destined to tranAlthough the impact of my home scend it.

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THE ORACLE • Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2012 • 19

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20 • Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2012 • THE ORACLE