B ra i n d n a s in your hea d , s fee t i n y e our s h o
y r s t e e r the c o u n t c t e ion r i d e h t in
o h o c s u e o y . REGISTER. VOTE.
A RAISE YOUR VOICE 2016 campaign sponsored by the Oracle, Honors Program
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Oral Roberts University · September 9, 2016 · Tulsa, Oklahoma · Vol 51, No. 2 · www.oruoracle.com · @oruoracle @oruoraclesports
SPORTS Cupping comes to athletics Address 7777 S. Lewis Ave. Tulsa, OK 74171 Web www.oruoracle.com Phone (918) 495-7080 Email oracle@oru.edu
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The Oracle is the premier student news media organization of Oral Roberts University. Our mission is to serve the ORU community with accurate and relevant media content, integrity, creativity and a focus on continual improvement.
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PAGE 15 FEATURES The making of a man PAGES 10-11
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2 • THE ORACLE • Friday, September 9, 2016
9/30/16
News Take the first step and register The commitment to vote starts with registering. ORU students who are U.S. citizens and live on campus or locally, may register in their home states or in Oklahoma. Home State Registration You can register online in most states and still meet important deadlines. One is to request your early voting absentee ballot if you will not be able to vote in your designated voting location on Tuesday, Nov. 8. To get more information about registration or the absentee ballot in your state, find your county election board office online or visit https://www.usa.gov/register-to-vote. Photo by Dailey Freudenrich
Government sophomore Noah Orth registers to vote at the Tulsa County Election Board on Wednesday. Located at 555 N. Denver Ave. in Tulsa, the office is open Monday thru Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Voter registration for the Nov. 8 election is Fri., Oct. 14, 2016. To confirm your registration in Tulsa County, call (918) 596-5780.
Millennial clout key to 2016 election CALLIE COTNER Staff Writer @calliejaneeee
The U.S. Census Bureau reports millennials—those persons born between 1982 and 2000—are now in the majority, outpacing baby boomers by nearly eight million people. This statistic has important ramifications to the 2016 election in which millennials, many of whom may be first-time voters, power election results. The Pew Research Center reports an estimated 69.2 million millennials were voting-age U.S. citizens as of April 2016. In the 2012 election, 46 percent of eligible millennials voted. Pew calculates it will take a 58 percent turnout of eligible millennial voters for this generation’s voting clout
to match their share of the electorate. Many millennials, unfortunately, do not understand how their vote may impact the 2016 Presidential election. “Millennials aren’t all that different from any other generation in the sense that political engagement increases in age,” said Dr. Curtis Ellis, chair of the History, Humanities and Government department. Many people act like the lack of involvement in young generations is new, but this trend is seen throughout history. Many politicians focus their messages on issues important to older voters. When politicians do not engage younger voters, they lose interest and choose to stand-by rather than become actively involved in the process. “Because [millennials] feel ignored
they don’t feel significant,” said Ellis. “Neither of the candidates that are left have a platform that prioritizes the interests of [millennials]. Candidates pay attention to people who vote, and young people don’t.” Ellis recommends by voting, the millennial generation has an opportunity to not only impact this election, but impact the platform of candidates in the future. This starts with being registered and committed to vote. One of the easiest ways to start getting involved is to become informed. Ellis suggests spending time daily on political websites and learning about the issues. He said many times confusion is the source of not being active during elections. Being informed helps overcome that barrier.
Registering in Oklahoma To register to vote in Oklahoma, download a voter registration form at elections.ok.gov, or visit any Department of Motor Vehicles office to get a mail-in form. You may also register at the Tulsa County Election Board, 555 N. Denver Ave. A driver’s license or Social Security card is required. The Oklahoma deadline to register for the 2016 election is Oct. 14, 2016.
Register on campus Sept. 29 The ORU Honors Program in conjunction with the Oracle will host “Raise Your Voice,” a register-and-vote event on Thursday, Sept. 29. Voter registration kiosks and tables will be available beginning at 7 p.m. in Zoppelt Auditorium. In addition to registering to vote, current Oklahoma state representatives and other civic leaders will be on hand to answer questions about the election, voting process and more.
THE ORACLE • Friday, September 9, 2016 • 3
Dedicated protector passes the torch REJOICE CHRISTISKING Staff Writer @rejoiceck3
Jerry Isaacs is retiring as the current head of the security department after more than a decade of service and sacrifice for Oral Roberts University. Isaacs has been a part of the ORU community for more than 13 years. He says it’s hard to believe he has been here for so long. Isaacs was a member of the Tulsa Police Department as detective supervisor before he became the head of security. He recalls the shift in the atmosphere when he joined the security department in 2003. “One of the major tasks that I had was to write an operations manual and to begin creating policy on how we handle emergencies across the board,” said Isaacs. His responsibility to train new re-
cruits on topics from terrorism protection to day-to day situations was one of the challenges he had to face. One reason for his retirement is his desire to invest in missions work alongside his wife, who is also retired. “The other thing is I don’t know how much further I can take us and it’s time for new energy and new ideas,” Isaacs said. Isaacs has been a huge asset and blessing according to Chief Operations Officer Tim Philley. “I don’t know if the students realize this, but our security here would lay down their lives to protect the students, faculty and staff of this university,” said Philley. Bill Hunt, who has worked in law enforcement since 1986, will be replacing Isaacs as the new Head of Security. “I love working in a Christian environment with like-minded believ-
ers. It’s a ministry. I am a minister of protection, a minister of justice, and I really enjoy that. I have a servant’s heart and that’s my desire, to be a servant,” said Hunt. Hunt has served with the Secret Service, FBI, Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force, and the Joint Terrorist Task Force. He also worked for the U.S. Marshalls from 1990-2003. Hunt has been the recipient of two awards for bravery and service, one as a result of a rescue mission involving the Oklahoma City bombing in the Murrah Federal Building. “One of my favorite scriptures is Romans 8: 28, ‘All things work together for the good of those who love God, and are called according to His purpose,’” said Hunt. “His purpose for me, I figured out after all these years, is a protector. In fact, my name William means protector. So it’s like I’ve been
Photos by Jeremy Luczak
Left: Jerry Isaacs has served ORU since 2003. He is leaving to do missions work with his wife. Right: Bill Hunt believes he can continue Isaacs’ legacy of faithfully serving ORU. 4 • THE ORACLE • Friday, September 9, 2016
ordained, in a way, into this ministry of protection and service, providing justice and peace on campus. That’s what I want, peace.” Hunt is looking forward to continuing the legacy left behind by Isaacs, but he knows it will be a challenge in light of his predecessor because of Isaacs. Isaacs believes all aspects of life are an opportunity for students to be trained and observed. “I look at the kids here, and I just get excited about what’s ahead of them and how God’s going to use them in the future. I know, and I have known this all along, that the next Oral Roberts, the next Billy Graham, the next Joel Osteen, the next Billy Joe Daugherty they’re all here, right now,” said Isaacs. “And what are they going to do for the kingdom? It is just going to be astonishing.”
Brock Turner: The conviction of technicalities Progression of events in People v. Turner January
2015
March
2016 June
2016
Jan. 17: Brock Turner was arrested for assaulting the victim. the next day, Turner was released from jail on bail. Jan. 28: Turner was charged with two counts of rape, two counts of penetration and one count of assault with intent to rape.
October
2015
May
March 30: Persky found Turner guilty of two counts of penetration and one count of assault with intent to rape.
2016
June 2: Persky sentences Turner to six months of jail and orders him to register as a sex offender for life.
September
June 3: Letter victim read to Turner in court about the assault is released to the media.
2016
Oct. 7: Judge Persky dismisses charges of rape and requires Turner to stand trial on remaining counts.
May 9: Turner told his probation officer he thought the victim was responsive. May 31: Turner’s attorney pushes judge to sentence Turner to four months in jail.
Sept. 2: Turner was released from jail on good behavior.
Graphic by Jesse Paul Turner
ALYSSA LACOURSE News and Online Editor @AlyssaLaCourse
On Sept. 2, 2016, Brock Turner was released from Santa Clara County jail after serving three months of his original six-month sentence for a January 2015 sexual assault. He was convicted on three counts of sexual assault after standing trial for two counts of rape, two counts of penetration and one account of assault with intent to rape. As stated by the Criminal Justice Realignment Act of 2011, offenders in California sentenced to time in county jail are eligible to shorten their sentence by half if they behave during their sentence. For every two days served, the offender receives two days of credit. In short, the offenders serve 2 days and get two days. Because of this Act, Turner was able to cut his sentence from six-months to three-months time.
Judge Aaron Persky said because of Turner’s age and lack of previous criminal record a six-month jail sentence with probation was an appropriate punishment for his assault. “A prison sentence will have a serious impact on him,” said Persky. “I think he will not be a danger to others.” Many protested this sentence with a petition on Change.org that received over 190,000 signatures. Many believed this sentence was too lenient in the circumstances of the assault. In California, where the assault took place, the law states a misdemeanor can earn up to six months in county jail and the conviction of a felony can result in imprisonment in county jail for up to one year with a fine up to $2,000 or imprisonment in state prison for two to four years with a fine up to $10,000. Many also protested against the charge of sexual assault. The protesters felt Turner raped the victim not merely
sexually assaulting her. According to California laws, rape is defined as “an act of sexual intercourse” under circumstances in which a victim is unconscious or incapable of giving consent, among other criteria. Meanwhile, sexual assault is defined as forcible acts of sexual penetration by any foreign object. Therefore, sexual assault is legally categorized as a different crime than rape. As stated by the court, Turner did not force the victim to have sexual intercourse with him; therefore he did not rape her. The initial charges were based on the police report of the incident, but upon receiving the results of the rape kit the prosecutors dropped the rape charges, as they could not prove rape. The language used when dealing with rape and sexual assault must be accurate and precise or an offender could be charged with a crime he or she
did not commit. The FBI defines rape as penetration of any sexual organ by any body part or object, or oral penetration by any sexual organ, without consent of a victim. In federal courts, the United Stated Sentencing Commission suggests eight to 20 years for convicted rapists contingent upon the victim’s age, injuries and if they were or were not kidnapped. According to California laws, however, Turner committed a sexual assault felony worthy of six-months imprisonment, but because of his good behavior, he was able to shorten his sentence to three months. Currently, Turner is living with his parents in Ohio and must register as a sexual offender for the rest of his life. For more information on People v. Turner, check out “Brock Turner: The posterboy of class privilege” on page 18.
THE ORACLE • Friday, September 9, 2016 • 5
Illustration by Xavier Gonzalez
Zika lands in the United States RAEGAN DOUGHARTY Staff Writer @ r_doughartyr
The United States has reported 2,686 confirmed travel-associated cases of Zika as of Aug. 31. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention reported 35 cases of locally acquired mosquito-borne cases, all within Florida. Twenty travel-related cases have been confirmed by the Oklahoma State Department of Health. There is currently no vaccine or medicine for Zika. “No matter whether you have a high risk or a low risk, there are a couple of things you can really do to be not a victim to that disease, ” Biology and Chemistry Department Chair Joel Gaikwad said. “But, mosquitoes are mosquitoes. They travel on a plane, they can get on a plane and be easily transmitted from location to location, so we can’t control that. The bottom line is that college students have to be careful
in the outside area. It’s better to be safe than to be sorry.” According to the CDC, Zika is a mosquito-borne virus that can be transmitted in a number of ways. If a pregnant mother contracts Zika, dangerous birth defects can occur. Transmission can occur sexually, through the bite of a Zika-carrying mosquito, and pregnant mothers can pass the virus to the unborn child. The CDC says transmission is very likely to be possible through blood transfusions. Zika’s symptoms in adults usually last several days up to a week and include conjunctivitis, fever, rash, headaches and joint and muscle pain. In many cases, however, Zika does not show symptoms. The Associated Press reported that three Miami Beach mosquitoes tested positive as carriers of the virus, the first in mainland U.S. on Sept. 1. According to the CDC, more than 10 babies have been born with defects linked to Zika.
6 • THE ORACLE • Friday, September 9, 2016
Mosquitoes tend to breed in and near standing water. The CDC cautions the public to be aware of conditions favorable for breeding mosquitoes. “Transmission is there, the disease is dangerous, but the number of people getting that infection is very, very small; that is a bright side. That doesn’t mean that we have to be really not responsible.” Gaikwad said. “We need to avoid panic. I think that is the most important thing. Avoid panic, but use common sense.” Active Zika transmission is occurring in nations across North America, South America and the Pacific Islands. Transmission is also active in Singapore and Cape Verde. The U.S. has had 2,722 total cases since Jan. 1, 2015. Gaikwad said mosquitoes tend to be nocturnal creatures, and staying indoors after the sun goes down can prevent insect bites. “We have a body of water [on campus] called Lake Evelyn that is
going to be a breeding ground for mosquitoes. So, if you’re going to be in that area after the sun goes down, you have to be careful.” Gaikwad said.
Tips against Zika
1
Wear clothing that covers the arms and legs
Use EPA - registered insect repellent
3
Spray down with any chemical that has percentage of “deet” Avoid waterfronts at night
2 4
Graphic by Alejandro Contreras
Hyperloop team continues progress after shifts CHRISTEN LATINI Managing Editor @latinispeaking
Team Codex from the engineering department presented the latest developments for its student-designed Hyperloop pod last week at an engineering seminar. The small eight-person team was one of 30 university teams selected for an international opportunity with SpaceX to develop different aspects of the proposed Hyperloop transportation system last semester. Team Codex is rapidly approaching the construction phase for their pod, set to be tested in January 2017. “The project is kind of the pride and joy of the engineering department right now,” said Emily Dzurilla,
Photos by Jeremy Luczak
Courtesy photo
the Codex team captain. Dzurilla joined the team in March, taking over for Brandon Braun after he (and half of the team at the time) graduated in May. The original team Codex left behind a legacy ready to be continued. “The design was really conceptual, which was a great place to start,” said Dzurilla. “From that we developed a 75-page design brief that was submitted to our mentors at SpaceX.” The team has been busy since the summer testing structures for the levitation and braking, developing C++ programming specific to the unit, and designing control systems to manage the different programs. As soon as the design brief is approved, Codex will begin construction of the pod. “Basically everything that can be will be made here on campus in the machine room in the Graduate Center,” Dzurilla said. The frictionless travel proposal could cut commuting time between Los Angeles and San Francisco in half, utilizing a vacuum-sealed tube and a pod moving at the speed of sound (767 mph). “It’s really great to be involved in [Team Codex]. It isn’t like a normal project where you work on one thing; here you get to see how it all works together and what the final product is worth,” Dzurilla said. The original Team Codex initiated fundraising campaigns and built relationships with companies in Tulsa willing to donate the use of machinery, facilities, and materials. The ORU Alumni Association
Courtesy photo
donated $65,000 to the team, which has since grown to 34 members. Team Codex is thrilled to represent ORU at the competition in Hawthorne, California next year. “We’re at a Christian university that puts a lot of focus on missions and giving, but the [original] idea is to send people to every man’s world to address every aspect of their need, and engineering is a method of sending spirit-empowered people to focus on the development of technology in every area,” Dzurilla said.
Most of Team Codex graduated in May, but the Hyperloop project continues with engineering students like Emily Dzurilla (pictured above), Aiodago Uises and Paige Smith (to the left). For more info on the Hyperloop team, visit oruoracle.com/news/engineering-dept
Courtesy photo
Free car service
Business competion
Freshman leadership
Christian Brothers Automotive is hosting a free pizza event for any ORU student who attends their free car care session. They will cover topics like checking the oil level, changing a tire, jumping a battery and how a car works. The event is Sept. 22 from 5:30 7:30 p.m. at the Tulsa Hills location. Call the shop at 918-289-0636 to sign up, but hurry because space is limited to 25 people.
The College of Business is hosting its second business plan competition. They will be giving away $5,000 in awards, and the top three teams will represent ORU in Oklahoma’s business plan competition. An information session will be held Sept. 23 in the Shark Tank at 4 p.m. Applications, including the executive summary, are due Sept. 30 by 11:59 p.m. For more information contact Bruno Teles.
Golden Eagle Academy is ORU’s new freshman leadership development program. The purpose follows ORU’s mission to raise Spirit-empowered leaders here on campus to go out into the world. Leadership skills will be built through practical application, team building exercises and leadership sessions. To apply, visit orutoday.com/golden-eagle-leadership-program THE ORACLE • Friday, September 9, 2016 • 7
Features
Far left: Steven Rogers works with his sister Suzanna Rogers (above) running the restaurant. Nelson’s recorded the “world famous” chicken fried steak recipe among other 1929 Nelson’s Buffeteria favorites. Photos by Jeremy Luczak
‘Down-home cooking’ almost a century of success EMERALD DEAN Features Editor @et_dean
Walking in here, you’re not sure if you’ve entered a hole-in-the-wall kitchen or a five-star restaurant—or both. But the line of people wrapping around the building suggests you’re in for a treat. The owners know what they’re doing, and they promise a seat by the time you get your food. They’ve been around since 1929, and anyone who was anyone ate here—including the mayors and politicians. It was the place to be, and although they changed locations, everything has stayed the same since the opening of the restaurant: the food, the service, the family and even the original vintage orange and green neon sign which reads “Nelson’s Buffeteria.” Although the building appears rundown and old, the ambiance hints to its proud history as one of Tulsa’s original landmarks. Newspaper clippings hang in frames on the right side of the restaurant wall. The staff are familiar and loud while clanging dishes in the
back and shouting orders at each other, but the chaos brings about a sense of family, even if it is your first time visiting Nelson’s Buffeteria. Twangy blue grass music is played by a live band performing old gospel hymns in the corner of the restaurant. “My husband and I saw them playing at the flea market—just a couple of guys with a harmonica. They said, ‘well we belong to this little band.’ They’re called the Round Up Boys because they just round up guys who play. ‘Can you come down to the buffeteria?’ I asked years ago. They’ve been playing here ever since,” said Suzanna Rogers, second generation owner of Nelson’s Buffeteria. Suzanne Rogers’ father-in-law started the business, and it was passed over to her and her husband, Nelson Rogers, Jr. in 1977. The business is almost 100 years old. Now it is coowned by their daughter, Jody Rogers. “I was laughing today because the line’s usually all the way out the door, and I’m always going into the kitchen to tell them. The staff always laughs and echoes my singing voice ‘it’s out the door,’” laughed Suzanne. “And so today
8 • THE ORACLE • Friday, September 9, 2016
I said, ‘It’s out the door, and all the way to the corner to the building.’ And they said, ‘It is not.’ And of course the head chef ran out and exclaimed, ‘it is out the door.’ It was so funny and everyone was all a panic.” The first thing you notice about Nelson’s Buffeteria is the packed parking lot with a long crowd stretched passed the door, but it moves quickly. An aroma of spices drift through the breeze while making your stomach growl with anticipation for a good home-cooked meal. Nelson’s has four entrees on their menu. Their most popular item is their “world famous chicken fried steak” followed by the chicken fried chicken, pan fried steak and drip beef. There are also specialty items every day of the week you can choose. “Everything’s from scratch in our kitchen. Our chicken fried steak is the most popular. It comes in a big piece of meat, and we cut it, trim it, tenderize it, and then we bread it by hand. Everything is made by hand because they are the original recipes,” said Rogers. “When we were downtown and Nelson’s father was still alive, I was just there. So I started writing everything
down so we could have the recipes. I thought, ‘We’re gonna need these someday, so I wrote them all down.’” You pick your food while an assembly line places it onto your plate. The piping hot chicken fried chicken is evenly battered with just the right amount of crispiness while also tender enough to slide your butter knife into it with ease. The peppery taste compliments the creamy mashed potatoes served with hot, thick gravy. It comes with a warm, fluffy roll accompanied by either a side of corn or peppered green beans which match the flavors of the dish wonderfully. “We have repeat customers, and we know them by name. They usually order the same things since they come in during breakfast hours. They have their little favorites,” said Suzanne. Praising newspapers are hung on the wall by the front door of all shapes and sizes as a reminder of what they’ve always been—Nelson’s Buffeteria—a place where the food is worth the wait. Visit Nelson’s Buffeteria at: 4401 S. Memorial Dr., Tulsa, OK 74145
Missions and outreach: How to get involved RAEGAN DOUGHARTY Staff Writer @r_dougharty
A fresh chapter begins for ORU’s Missions and Outreach department with new Director Augustine Mendoza. Mendoza says the strong system already in place will remain established as the department is experiencing some changes with the departure of former director Bobby Parks. The department is launching an exciting year of mission trips and local outreaches focused around the theme “Where’s My Ground?” Students are encouraged to get involved with the program. “The most practical way that they can jump in right away—and this can be from a freshman, all the way to a senior—is they can jump into outreaches that start Saturday,” Mendoza said. “Those are outreaches that happen all throughout the week usually after classes finish for the day, and there’ll be a schedule up here pretty soon.” Signing up is the first step to being part of the missions and out-
reach family. Students who sign up for missions and outreaches are carefully placed on specific teams. The selected outreach is revealed during the fall semester, and then outreaches start to occur weekly at the organization where the student is placed. “You come to a big team. It’s on a Tuesday night, and we build it up, talk about the vision for the year, and we do this mystery scavenger hunt to find out what team you’re a part of. It’s not just like, reading names off a list. It’s very fun, very new,” Mendoza said. A similar event is held to reveal the missions teams for the year, continuing the theme as missionaries discover their destinations, leaders and team members. Students are promptly given information to begin preparations for their mission trip. The department provides stamps to students as they prepare fundraising letters, which will be mailed at a stamp party. “We had someone send 200 letters last year, and we got stamps for all of them. We definitely help them send letters out because we have found that’s
the most appropriate way for people to get funds,” Mendoza said. “They can work events like in the Mabee Center, and the money that they raise from that can go to their trips and then we just give them creative sheets and ideas, links to websites, different creative fundraiser that we’ve seen.” The vision for this year’s missions and outreach encourages students to consider these questions: Where’s my
ground? Students can become part of a diverse and purposeful community in choosing to take part in missions and outreach programs. For more information on Augustine Mendoza and how to get involved with Missions and Outreach check out the rest of the story at oruoracle.com. Photo by Wyatt Bullard
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Director Augustine Mendoza encourages students to explore the missions and outreach opportunities based on their interests.
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Everyone ha sa : y r o St t h g i e w l The rea d l r o w e h of t
While his father was in the ICU, Bear Bryt had a dream his dad was walking for the first time in two years and was with Jesus. The two conversed before coming to an agreement. They then turned around and waved to Bear before walking down a pathway to a celestial castle.
Illustration by: Xavier Gonzalez and Jesse Paul Turner Photos (L-R) by: Wyatt Bullard, Bear Bryt and Jeremy Luczak 10 • THE ORACLE • Friday, September 9, 2016
JADYN WATSON-FISHER Editor-in-Chief @jwatsonfisher
Khaki colored walls and fluorescent lighting made the room feel cold and unwelcoming. The scent of cleaning products was easily discernible. Monitors beeped slowly. Family gathered around to say goodbye. James “Bear” Bryt, an international business and ministry major and cheerleader, is known around campus for his friendly demeanor and contagious smile. One would never know the depth of his struggle without asking. His dad Mark was a pulmonary critical care physician who worked 20 hours a day, but on Nov. 15, 2012 it caught up to him. Bear had gone to get a haircut between classes when he received a phone call from his mom. “I’m thinking no big deal, I’ll just answer ‘Hey mom, what’s going on?’” Bear remembered. “She basically said, ‘I need you to get in the car now, your dad had a stroke, and I need you to pick up your grandparents. Meet me at St. Francis Hospital.’” Life for Bear became a scene in a movie. Time seemed to slow down and everything was blurry. Everything he knew was about to change. When he and his grandparents arrived at the hospital, they saw
what no child or parent ever wants to see. “Dad was laying there. Dad was more or less unconscious,” Bear said. The damage from the stroke was extensive. His father was completely paralyzed on the left side due to a brain bleed and he remained unconscious for approximately two months. “It was hard. My days were spent in the AC at practice, in the GC at class or at the hospital with my parents trying to take care of everybody, as was proper,” Bear admitted candidly. His father couldn’t care for the family, so he did. Mark was released from the hospital and began physical therapy in January 2013. His cognitive abilities were still intact, and he understood the situation, but relearning motor skills was taxing. He was readmitted to the ICU 15 times. “[There were] several phone calls during classes saying, ‘We need you to come and help your dad go to the bathroom.’ My mom was very strong physically, but not as strong as me. Cheerleading came in handy,” he chuckled. Bear’s grandpa had a stroke in December 2013 while Mark was still attempting to recover. Everything changed again. This time instead of hopping between ORU, home and the hospital, he was now jumping between ORU, home, the hospital and his grandpa’s nursing home. Bear was
carrying his family. Then after nearly two years of rehabilitation, Bear and Mark began to talk about his condition during a stay in the ICU. “It looks like you’re what I hoped you’d become,” Mark said as Bear helped him to the bed from the chair across the room. It was hard for Bear to hear. It signified his dad’s loss of hope in the prognosis. Bear didn’t lose faith, though. He knew he had to stay optimistic for himself and his family. Three short months later they were back in the ICU. This time there were only two options—a miraculous healing or the end of a 22-month fight. Mark was in the hospital for two weeks with kidney failure. On the second Friday, Bear was in chapel when the speaker told students to come down if they, or someone they loved, needed prayer. He did. He pleaded for his dad. “I lost it. I was overwhelmed with grief crying on the side of the stage,” Bear recalled. Then he heard the Lord tell him the decision would be made the next day. “I didn’t know what the decision was, I didn’t know what the situation was going to be, but I went in as optimistic as I could,” he said. Saturday came and so did a 7 a.m. phone call. It was time for the family to come in. Mark’s vitals were dropping. Bear took a nap at 2 p.m., had a dream, woke up an hour later to his mom singing. They were told every-
thing would be done in three hours. Bear, his mom, paternal grandmother and uncle said goodbye and told Mark they loved him. It was 6:30 p.m. and his vitals were dropping. Everyone knew what it meant. No extraordinary measures were to be taken. It was the end of a life. All treatments were to be discontinued and on Sept. 20, 2014 at 6:37 p.m. Bear watched his father die. “It was over,” Bear sighed. “The two years we had tried to help him rehabilitate and get back to what we perceived normal to be the fight was over. But the next fight was getting ready to start.” Life changed again. Bear had to bury his father, tell his grandpa who was still in a nursing home and try to regain a sense of normalcy. He was officially the man of the family. Since then, Bear’s faced two other life changes. His grandfather has passed—exactly 100 days after Mark— and he has had to care for his mom who is suffering from pinched nerves and a recently discovered broken hip. Today, he admits he sometimes wishes none of it happened to him and occasionally blames himself for not being available enough at the time. But even though his dad isn’t alive, Bear’s faith still carries him. “Life is hard. Real life is hard. There are struggles, there are opportunities to crumble, there are opportunities to fall off the spiritual cliff. [But] ultimately, you have to persevere,” he said assuredly. “God is God, and He knows exactly what He is going to do even if we don’t. I know and I trusted that He was going to take care of the situation regardless. He did and He is, still.”
THE ORACLE • Friday, September 9, 2016 • 11
Sports Chinese cup therapy making a big comeback RUSSELL DORSEY Sports Editor @Russ_Dorsey1
The ORU training staff recently began using one of the newest treatments in sports medicine. Myofascial Decompression (MFD), or “cupping” as it has been coined, was recently seen in use at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games and is growing more popular among athletic trainers internationally. MFD is a new version of ancient Chinese cup therapy. The method uses negative pressure (suction) through glass cups to raise the skin and allow for increased blood flow to targeted areas of the body. The cups stay in place for about 3-5 minutes and the improved circulation promotes quicker healing and recovery time for muscles. Athletic trainer Trisha Shannon brought the new technique to the ORU training staff this year. Shannon learned the treatment in March at the University of California-San Francisco from Assistant Clinical Professor Chris DaPrato. DaPrato taught the technique to trainers and physical therapists who used the it at the 2016 Rio Olympics. “It’s definitely a newer technique. Now that it’s been in the Olympics everybody knows what it is.
There are probably five or six ORU athletes a week that get the [MFD] treatment done,” said Shannon. “If one of the other certified trainers thinks it would help or I think it would help, we decide as a whole if they should get it done.” ORU Baseball pitcher Cale Tims gets the MFD treatment regularly and has gotten accustomed to the unusual therapy that he considers effective. “I’d say the closest thing to compare it to is the feeling you get when you put the end of a vacuum against your skin only stronger,” said Tims. There are certain risks and possible side effects from the treatment like poor circulation and endocrine issues, but most of them are from overuse or receiving treatment from someone who has not been trained properly. Some athletes require longer-term MFD treatment, but most athletes only require a few sessions. “Someone like Cale, who uses his arms all the time, he’s going to have scar tissue built up. So that is something you would probably continue to use it on, said Shannon. “But someone who just had a quad injury who we want to get back on the field might only have two or three treatments.” Shannon is currently the only trainer on staff qual-
ified to administer MFD treatments, which limits the number of athletes who can get the treatment done, but Tims says more ORU athletes are giving it a try. “It can get pretty intense, but the next day my body feels much better than in times past,” said Tims. “Based on the results I’ve experienced, I’d tell anyone who’s sore to try it.”
Photo by Tabitha Levi
The signuture “cup” shaped bruises usually last for 7-10 days after the completion treatment.
Volleyball aims to continue five-game streak JADYN WATSON-FISHER Editor-in-Chief @jwatsonfisher
Photo by Sydney Stoever
Karyn Chrisman logged 10 kills at the UCA Tournament last week and will be a reserve player at the upcoming tournament this weekend.
Golden Eagle volleyball is seven matches into the season and is already on a five-match winning streak, despite a rocky start. The young team—with five true freshmen—struggled at its first tournament two weeks ago at the University of Oklahoma on Aug. 26 and 27, winning only one match before it went on to sweep the UCA Tournament in Conway, Arkansas last weekend. “[The Oklahoma Invitational was the] first weekend and everybody was nervous, especially the two new starters,” said Head Coach Sheera Sirola. “We did not know anything about the teams, only their records from last year.
12 • THE ORACLE • Friday, September 9, 2016
At the UCA Tournament we played as a team and we did some adjustments to the line up.” Junior Laura Milos’ 21 service aces and 70-kill performance at the UCA Tournament earned her a seventh career Summit League offensive player of the week nod. She is now tied for third all-time for conference player of the week awards. Sirola hopes this honor is the beginning of a “Player of the Year” season for Milos who received honorable mention last season. “I am hoping she is going to be one of the top two players in our conference and I personally expect her to be the player of the year,” Sirola said. “Last year, [the] conference coaches gave votes to a No. 2 statistical player in our
conference to become the player of the year; that player was a senior. Laura Milos [a sophomore] was No. 2 in the country for kills per set and in our conference she was No. 1 in kills per set and hitting percentage. I feel she was overlooked by the conference coaches.” Milos and company play Stephen F. Austin today at 2 p.m., Abilene Christian and Texas Tech tomorrow at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., respectively. “ACU, SFA are our ex-conference teams that we played two years ago,” Sirola said. “We will watch the film and prepare at practice for them. Texas Tech just got a new coach and we really do not know much about them until we watch them. We will try to repeat the last weekend.”
Oracle Sports guide to Fantasy Football 2016 RUSSELL DORSEY, JOSH MCMINN AND NICK ROTOLA Sports Editor and Staff Writers @Russ_Dorsey1, @JoshM_OK and @nickrotola
The 2016 season has begun and so has fantasy football. Check out our writers’ players to watch to help you win your league this year.
Josh’s Picks
Russ’ Picks
Eric Ebron, Detroit Lions Ebron has been disappointing during his two seasons with the Lions, but that will likely change in 2016. Calvin Johnson’s retirement will open up the Lions’ offense, and he will likely see his production increase. He’s still available in about 55 percent of ESPN leagues.
Matt Jones, Washington Jones split time with Alfred Morris throughout his Sammy Watkins, Buffalo Bills rookie year, but surprised people with his big games Many fantasy owners would consider Watkins in 2015. With Morris leaving for the Cowboys, Jones a risk because of his inability to stay on the field during his brief career, but he is worth the risk. When takes over as the No. 1 RB for Washington. His explosiveness and ability to catch the ball out of the healthy, he can be explosive as a dominant WR1. backfield will make him a productive dual-threat RB Jamies Winston, Tampa Bay Buccaneers for PPR and standard leagues. Winston had a quietly impressive rookie campaign. He threw for 4,000 yards with 22 touchdowns and 15 interceptions as a rookie. Another year of experience this season could contribute to fewer turnovers, more touchdowns and make Winston one of the better young QBs in the NFL.
Sleeper: Chris Ivory, Jacksonville Jaguars His power running style makes him perfect for goal line and short yard opportunities. Ivory rushed for over 1,000 yards with 7 TDs for the Jets in 2015, and should be just as productive this year. Buyer Beware: Mark Ingram, New Orleans Saints Ingram has been in the NFL for five seasons and has yet to rush for 1,000 yards. His closest season came in 2014 as he rushed for a career-high 964 yards. Ingram’s power running style is tempting because of his ability to get into the endzone in goal-line situations, but at this point in his career, he may be an all or nothing type of running back. Courtesy Photos
Sleeper: Matt Forte, New York Jets 30-year-old running backs don’t get much love in the NFL, but Forte deserves some. One of the most consistent backs in the league since 2008, Forte has had at least 800 rushing yards and 44 receptions every year in his career. The Jets’ balanced offensive attack should benefit Forte, who can change the game with his pass catching and running ability. Buyer Beware: Alshon Jeffrey, Chicago Bears There’s no denying the South Carolina product is a great receiver when healthy, but that’s the problem. Jeffrey hasn’t been able to stay healthy. It’s hard to break away from defenses when quad/hamstring injuries are slowing him down. Jeffrey is a stud, but can he be counted on all season?
Nick’s Picks
Rashad Jennings, New York Giants Jennings, out of Liberty University, has never been a big name guy, but look for him to put up big time numbers in 2016. Since nobody is challenging his playing time this season, his RB2 value (863 yds in 2015) could turn into RB1 production. People are ignoring him, but they’ll know the name soon enough. Gary Barnidge, Cleveland Browns Barnidge is a premium athlete, and if he didn’t have a bum throwing to him last year, he would be a top-tier tight end. If you grabbed Barnidge in the sixth round or later, you got a steal. Since the Browns don’t have a true No. 1 receiver, 1,000 yards and 8 touchdowns shouldn’t be hard for him to reach.
Sleeper: Dak Prescott, Dalllas Cowboys Dak will get the nod Week 1, with Tony Romo out for 6-10 weeks. He looked phenomenal in the preseason and has all the ingredients to succeed. Dak is drenched in athleticism, and while his arm has been criticized, you can’t go wrong throwing it up to No. 88. Buyer Beware: Ezekiel Elliot, Dallas Cowboys This guy has a lot of talent, but comes with a lot of risk. He’s a good pass blocker, runs behind a great O-Line ,and showed his durability at Ohio State carrying the ball over 500 times. However, the Cowboys have a plethora of quality backs, and there are concerns about his behavior off the field. Is he too risky? We’ll find out soon enough. THE ORACLE • Friday, September 9, 2016 • 13
US built on protests like Colin Kaepernick’s
RUSSELL DORSEY Sports Editor @Russ_Dorsey1
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick’s decision to sit during the National Anthem before a preseason game versus the Green Bay Packers has quickly become one of the more polarizing topics of discussion. This week, other athletes in the NFL and around sports have joined Kaepernick in his protest despite backlash. Kaepernick stated that he will continue to sit until he feels the flag represents what it’s supposed to.
While Kaeprenick’s choice to not take part in the National Anthem seems disrespectful and unpatriotic on the surface, his decision to take part in a silent protest and support what he feels is right is as American as it gets. Throughout this country’s history, there have been countless moments of people protesting against what they felt wasn’t right. Whether it’s students at Kent State protesting what they felt was an unjust war in 1970, women fighting for suffrage in the early 20th century, or African Americans peacefully sitting in restaurants labeled “WHITES ONLY” during the civil rights movement, each of these moments were a form of protest and served a specific purpose: to shed light on problems in the U.S. by means some may see as extreme—problems which would continue to go unnoticed without these often misconstrued moments. The late, great Muhammad Ali chose not to serve in the military in 1966 during the Vietnam War, and it cost him not only the world heavy-
Photo by Wyatt Bullard
weight title, but three prime years of his career. Who knows what this will cost Kaepernick in the end? The fact of the matter is when someone wants to make real change, what they may lose isn’t a factor. His decision to not stand for the National Anthem and using that to speak out about the injustice against minorities and people of color in America is more important to him than endorsements or playing in the NFL. Race relations in the United States isn’t a Black problem, White problem, Latino problem, Asian problem or Native American problem. It’s everybody’s problem and until people choose to acknowledge that it exists, it’s not going anywhere. Kaepernick’s attempt to bring awareness about this subject has fallen on some deaf ears due to the way he went about doing it, but would those people have heard Kaep’s message even if he hadn’t protested in this way? We may never know. Don’t let the initial shock or discomfort of Kaepernick’s actions cause
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ORU Basketball releases non-conference schedules
Freshmen lead the way at Bob Timmons Dual Classic
Notable Women’s Games - Nov. 11 at Iowa, Nov. 13 at Northwestern and Nov. 17 vs. Tulsa at 7 p.m.
The women’s cross country team received two top-10 finishes at the Bob Timmons Classic from freshmen Hanna Sanchez and Jessica Romero. Sanchez finished eighth and Romero finished in 10th. Senior Joshua Lee led the way for ORU on the men’s side. Lee finished in 14th place with a time of 20:18.6.
The men’s and women’s basketball teams have released this season’s non-conference schedule.
Notable Men’s Games - Nov. 11 at Baylor, November 28 vs. Tulsa at 7 p.m., Dec. 3 at Michigan State. 14 • THE ORACLE • Friday, September 9, 2016
you too quickly to ignore what he is attempting to stand up for, or even cling to some overblown sense of patriotism to soothe the discomfort of the subject. This country was built on protests just like this. It’s not the first, nor will it be the last.
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Colin Kaepernick will begin the season as the 49ers backup quarterback to Blaine Gabbert.
Photo by Jeremy Luczak
Men’s soccer looks to get back in the win column
The men’s soccer team dropped two straight matches against Washington and Gonzaga, but look to right the ship this weekend, starting tonight against Incarnate Word. The Golden Eagles defeated Incarnate Word 2-0 in the first regular season match on August 26. Junior midfielder Santiago Riveros leads the team with 5 points. Tonight’s match is set to begin at 7 P.M. at the Case Soccer Complex.
Scene The Conversant Critic: Cereal’s not just for breakfast anymore
Over 1500 people attended the opening day of the new cereal bar in south Tulsa. Caitlin Peach chose to mix Cap’n Crunch and Cocoa Puffs for her personalized breakfast treat. VICTORIA ATTERBERRY Muse Editor @Tory2495
Going out to eat normally includes a hearty appetite, an overloaded menu and a wad of cash, but Bowl-n-Spoon on South Peoria brings a simpler kind of restaurant to Tulsa with one main menu item: cereal. Jamie Horton and her husband came up with the idea after she and her daughter visited a Kansas coffee shop serving cereal. The idea appealed to Horton, and she felt she needed to bring something similar to Tulsa. “I felt like there needed to be a place…that was simple in the food, where you were there to be able to say I just want a bowl of cereal and just
kind of call it good,” said owner Jamie Horton. Bowl-n-Spoon Cereal Bar is an upand-coming reality of Horton’s vision. Any visitor cannot miss the fun colors of orange, green and blue adorning the bar. Retro décor lines the back walls and a large, drive-in-theatertype screen plays classic cartoons such as Looney Toons and Betty Boop. A selection of various cereals is carefully placed at the front of the cash register for easy viewing and selecting. Mix up to three cereals in a regular bowl for $3.25, or a large bowl for $4.95. Choose from popular brands such as Frosted Flakes, Fruit Loops, Cocoa Puffs, Apple Jacks, and more. Toppings are also available for just 50 cents per
Illustration by Jesse Paul Turner
topping. Try one of Bowl-n-Spoon’s four concoctions for a more adventurous experience. The “S’more the Merrier” is a chocolaty choice of Golden Grahams, marshmallows, chocolate syrup and chocolate milk. This concoction is a unique change from regular cereal but can get too sweet after about five bites. Cereal isn’t the only thing served here at Bowl-n-Spoon. The hearty menu offers many more tasty breakfast foods including waffles, bagels, toast and Pop-Tarts. Do not leave Bowl-n-Spoon without trying the bacon. Perfectly cooked slices of pork come in bundles of four or eight, are sprinkled with brown sugar and served with a side of maple syrup.
Photo by Jeremy Luczak
The sugar and maple syrup take bacon to whole new level of deliciousness. For those who want to skip breakfast and go instead for lunch, the resturant has a small menu choice of paninis. Try the Ham, Mozzarella and Pear Panini. The hot panini’s mozzarella melts in your mouth while the fresh slices of ham and pear come together to make a solid sandwich. Cereal, bacon, coffee and desserts at an affordable price combined with a spacious, laid back atmosphere makes Bowl-n-Spoon a paradise for any college student and the perfect place for any study date.
THE ORACLE • Friday, September 9, 2016 • 15
New nude: Fashion industry fights ‘beige’ KYRA VALDERAS Staff Writer @kyra0324
Photos by Abby Friedman
Women of all complexions are now able to find shoes, makeup and undergarments more easily than in the past.
The definition of the word nude is “flesh color,” but for years when women were looking for flesh colored products such as shoes, makeup or undergarments the only colors available were beige, ivory or tan—leaving women of color out. The “nude” trend has been in style for years but women of deeper skin tones have regularly found it difficult to find the perfect shade that matches their complexion. “Not long ago, ‘nude’ meant ‘matches white skin,’’ Steve Moscetti said in an interview with Refinery 29. “Because not everyone’s ‘nude’ is the same, people with skin of any other color were implicitly unable to participate in the trend.” In the past five years companies have expanded their definition of nude to fit everyone. For example, in 2013 Christian Louboutin came out with
a line of flats and pumps in skin tone colors from fair to deep. “The Nude Collection is dedicated to people who want to have great legs, to have a great silhouette,” said Christian Louboutin in a statement with the LA Times. Fashion designer and rapper Kanye West also introduced Yeezy Season 2—a clothing line inspired by the nude trend featuring shades from the lightest to the darkest. Beauty brands are also now increasing their color range to offer foundations to match all skin tones because of the increasing popularity of skin tone clothing. Companies such as Anastasia Beverly Hills, L’Oréal, NARS, and more have expanded their color range within to cater to more women of color. L’Oréal has worked with Queen Latifah to implement a complete collection dedicated to women of color. NARS’ slogan for its revamped Radiant Creamy Concealer, which caters to a bigger selection of deeper skin tones, is “One for All.” Maybelline has come out
with a full variety of eleven nude lipsticks to match each skin tone. “There isn’t just one ‘nude’ anymore,” said Shannon Romanowski to the LA Times, “Brands are recognizing that women [and men] come in all shades, and there’s been a huge expansion in tones and foundations.”
Christian Louboutin introduced a “nude” collection for six skin colors.
Musical unity: Eight pianists and 88 keys MYAKA WALKER Staff Writer @myakacharles
Timko Barton Performance Hall will be hosting its annual 8x88 Piano Festival on Oct. 1. The festival is open to the public and will feature performers of all ages and piano-playing levels. “We join together with one common goal: to produce a common piece of music,” said Professor Vicki Walker. Walker and Joyce Bridgeman co-coordinate the event. This is the third year this festival has taken place. The first year, Walker and Bridgeman wanted to try it out to get the Tulsa community involved with ORU, and it turned out to be a success. Four acoustic pianos are placed on the performance hall stage and two people are seated to a piano. “The joy of creating musical sounds with seven other pianists brings much delight to the performers and the audience while four pianos are played simultaneously by eight duet pianists,” said Bridgeman. There is a limited number of performance spots available. Any duet interested can sign up through ORU’S website or talk to Bridgeman in her office in Timko Barton. The fee is $20 for non-students and 16 • THE ORACLE • Friday, September 9, 2016
$5 for students. Performers will also receive a T-shirt to be worn at the festival. The registration deadline was this Wednesday, but ORU students are usually asked to fill in any empty performance spots. “We have received applications from approximately 30 pianists in Tulsa, so any ORU pianist who wishes to join the 2016 ensemble should immediately contact Professor Joyce Bridgman at jbgridgman@ oru.edu. Musical scores will be assigned according to your ability to read music from early intermediate level up to advanced sight reading ability,” said Bridgman. “People should be a part of the festival because it promotes unity,” said sophomore Adam Rodgers, who performed in the festival for his first time last year. “I guess my favorite part of it all would have to be the finale. It was pretty much a bunch of music teachers and me playing a piece that was really difficult and ended with an extremely accented note called marcato,” said Rodgers. Photo by Rebecca Olvera The festival is free to attend. The first rehearsal is on Sept. 17 starting at 8:30 a.m. On Oct. 1, there will Liam Parker, left, practices sight reading sheet be a morning rehearsal and the festival will start at 3 music for his second performance at the festival p.m. and end at around 4 p.m. Don Ryan and his son, with the help of Joyce Bridgman, right. Barron Ryan, will close the show.
Extra, extra: ‘NEWSIES’ comes to Tulsa EMERALD DEAN Features Editor @et_dean
Stop the press! Disney’s Tony Award-winning “NEWSIES” is coming straight off of Broadway to Tulsa. The show is like a newspaper, filled with exciting headline after headline, but also including sensational showtunes and explosive dance numbers. It’s something to think twice about missing. “NEWSIES” will arrive at the Tulsa Performing Arts Center (PAC) and will last only four days, September 14-18, with matinee and evening performances at various times. Based off of the 1992 Disney movie, “NEWSIES takes the audience through an adventurous story inspired by the newsboys’ strike of 1899. As newspaper typhoons William Randolph Hearst and Joseph Pulitzer increase in greed, Pulitzer inflates the newspaper prices for newsboys. A band of homeless boys become unlikely heroes as they take on some of the most
powerful men in New York City in a strike for what they believe is right. The strike becomes a frontpage headline in the newspaper thanks to the help of a young journalist named Katharine. To quote the leader of the newsboys, Jack Kelly, “dat’s da foist thing ya gotta learn - headlines don’t sell papes. Newsies sell papes.” “NEWSIES” features scores by Alan Menken (music) and Jack Feldman (lyrics)—who are also known for their work in “Beauty and the Beast” and “The Little Mermaid.” The Broadway show will include songs such as the popular “Seize the Day” and the wishful “Santa Fe”—all inspired by the feisty characters and boyish innocence which can only be explained as “a boy’s gotta do what a boy’s gotta do”-mentality throughout the musical. “‘NEWSIES’ has the best band of dancing tramps this side of ‘West Side Story,’ and the ensemble defies gravity regularly, flying across the stage with glee. They’re aggressively charming, and sure to uplift even the dourest of dispositions,” said LA Weekly.
Choreographer Christopher Gattelli revived customary Broadway dance sequences that command attention with the strength and stamina only a young newsboy could master. Backflip after backflip show the tenacity of the diligent newsboys. Perhaps the most astounding dance step is the pirouette on newspapers. The dancer lands a quadruple turn with ease as if the surface offered any friction for the movements. If there wasn’t enough packed into
the show, the romantic tension between Jack Kelly and Katharine keeps the show full of newsworthy gossip. The back-and-forth flirting leaves the audience light-hearted. “Seize the day!” and buy a ticket to the explosive, Disney Broadway show “NEWSIES.” Seats are filling up quickly for September 14-18. Buy tickets by calling the PAC ticket office, (918) 596-7111, or by visiting myticketoffice.com.
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The dance corps of news boys leap simultaneously as they perform “Seize the Day,” their hit number.
Courtesy photo
Let Hope Rise release
The long-awaited Hillsong movie “Let Hope Rise” is set to be released next week, Friday, Sept. 16 after being pushed back four times due to studio distribution rights. ORU alumnus Phil Cooke was one of three executive producers of the film. Christian entertainment company PureFlix helped produce the film and is excited to partner with Hillsong. “Let Hope Rise” follows the Australian worship band on its unlikely rise to worldwide popularity. Read the full story online at oruoracle.com.
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Tulsa Greek Festival
Second Fridays: Swing
Tulsa’s annual Greek Week begins this week starting with the Toga Run on Sept. 10 at 6:30 p.m. at the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 1222 S. Guthrie Ave. The Greek festival starts Sept. 15 and runs until Sept. 17 from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Attendees can select from various Greek foods. There will be live music, activities and shopping. Admission is $3.00.
Guthrie Green’s monthly Second Fridays: Lindy in the Park is coming to a close with only two swing dance events left for the season. The event, hosted by Vintage Swing Movement, is free for beginners and pros alike. Lessons begin at 6:30 p.m. and the dance goes from 7-9 p.m. at the stage or dock at Guthrie Green, 111 E. Mathew B. Brady St. THE ORACLE • Friday, September 9, 2016 • 17
Muse Millennial voting: Nuisance or responsibility?
JADYN WATSON FISHER Editor-in-Chief @jwatsonfisher
As children, we dream of the magic number 18. Eighteen is official adulthood, moving out and doing all the things our parents do for us as children. Eighteen is also the beginning of the privilege of voting. For years I’ve been told how important it is to vote. It’s my voice being heard, and the opportunity for me to make a decision I believe will impact the
good of more than just myself. I can choose how I believe the city of Tulsa should spend its money. I can choose who I believe will make the best decisions for my city, state and country. I’m 20 years old now. This presidential election will be the first I am eligible to participate in. I have everything I have been taught about voting to consider, but I have no idea what I’m going to do. Looking at the two major nominees, I have asked myself whether or not I should even participate in this election. Neither major candidate’s values really align with mine. I’m not confident in the third party options either. Not voting seems like a viable option. I wouldn’t have to choose someone I don’t believe in. I have also weighed the candidates in relation to each other, attempting to consider which is the “lesser of the two evils.” This option isn’t ideal either. Going to vote and choosing a candidate based on who is less terrible isn’t the way I want to make decisions. Do I vote for a candidate simply so the other one won’t win? I don’t want my choice to be an “an-
ti-vote.” I think part of the reason the country is in this state is because we are voting against what we don’t want, rather than voting for what we do want. The next president will likely choose a minimum of two Supreme Court justices, affecting the direction of the highest court in the nation for an indefinable number of years into the future. Major bills are coming into consideration, including the Affordable Healthcare Act. The next president will have influence far past their four- or eight-year term. So while I don’t know who I’m voting for yet, it’s ok. The true importance of voting comes from examining the beliefs I hold not just for today, but for the future of my country, and selecting a candidate who will make decisions most closely aligned with those standards. No candidate will be the savior of the entire country, but if every person who says, “my vote doesn’t count” actually votes, we could change what the United States looks like. Vote. It’s the responsible and respectable thing to do.
Brock Turner: The posterboy of class privilege
LYDIA ECHOLS Staff Writer @lyd_echols
Millions around the world watched last week as the door of Santa Clara County Jail opened and Brock Turner walked free after serving just three months of a six-month sentence. The 20-year-old former Stanford swimmer was just released early, from what could’ve been a 14-year sentence, after being convicted of three felony counts
of sexual assault. This case affects every student across the country, whether they know it or not. Part of this baffling problem is class privilege. While he will also be required to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life, the slap on the wrist sentence for Turner would not have existed for a poorer man of any minority race. For example, in July, former Vanderbilt football player Cory Batey was sentenced to 15 years in prison for raping an unconscious woman in 2013. Brian Banks, a former NFL linebacker, was wrongfully accused of rape in 2002 and served five years in federal prison. The Stanford victim in the Turner case wrote a letter about the incident and how she was affected by the situation. It was read aloud in open court and later released to the public. Two Stanford graduate students who res-
18 • THE ORACLE • Friday, September 9, 2016
cued the victim testified as witnesses as well. Turner still served only three months behind bars despite the overwhelming amount of evidence dictating a much harsher penalty should have been handed down. This case only goes to show how far we have yet to come in our criminal justice reform, especially in the area of sexual assault. The maximum for sexual assault and battery is different in every state. The consensus is rape and sexual assault should be taken seriously no matter where it happens. Judge Aaron Persky has since stepped down from ruling on any criminal cases. His defense of taking Turner “at his word,” and a longer prison sentence having “a severe impact on Turner” is enough to reveal Pensky did not take the case seriously enough. This case, however, has made Turner’s
face recognizable and plastered a message for all of those who would seek to escape the scrutiny of the judiciary system. ORU’s university procedures for sexual assault are listed under the Title IX policies: “The Title IX Coordinator will cause a prompt, fair, and impartial investigation to be initiated, which may lead to the imposition of sanctions.” It is the student body’s duty to be vigilant and alert even though we are in an environment where rape and sexual assault can be discussed and ultimately prevented. Awareness and change goes beyond watching and feeling pity for the victim. Change begins with arming the student body with truth and knowledge, so that they can change their world.
Political parties: The destruction of division
VICTORIA ATTERBERRY Muse Editor @Tory2495 The country is more divided than ever. Republicans and democrats, whites and blacks, religious and non-religious are all on different sides and are not willing to bend. This way of thinking has closed people off from each other and has sparked a bitter intolerance for other’s views. Time after time again, people are criticized for their views and not heard out. It is comfortable to feel as if a certain party has all the right answers, but neither Republicans nor
Democrats are absolutely right. Centuries ago, America’s first president, George Washington, warned the country not to have political parties. He said, “[Political parties] may now and then answer popular ends. They are likely in the course of time and things, to become potent engines, by which cunning, ambitious and unprincipled men will be enabled to subvert the power of the people and to usurp for themselves the reins of government, destroying afterwards the very engines which have lifted them to unjust dominion.” Political parties have somehow made many cold toward anyone who opposes their views. Inaccurate and hateful stereotypes have come about. Not all Republicans are white, rich, old men, and not all Democrats are blacks. An online survey by Rasmussen Reports indicates 72 percent of American voters believe America is more divided than it was four years ago. It is evident people in America today are all on different pages. It is fine to hold certain opinions and values, but vehemently trying to shove ideas down another person’s
throat until they understand does not help. Petty, combative name-calling sessions on Facebook are not going to solve any problems. No one is convinced by five paragraphs of why Donald Trump is going to “make American great again” or why Hillary Clinton is “moving forward.” Political parties are more than likely not going anywhere anytime soon, but there is no need to be so set in a certain party’s views we can’t see the value in each other’s perspectives. Although Americans have failed to heed Washington’s warning thus far, there is still time to prevent these divisions from tearing the country apart. Talk. Share ideas. Inform others about important issues and discuss what the best possible solution is. Pick out the pros and cons of every idea a political candidate proposes. The truth is, most people search for answers in this problem-ridden world. Let’s help each other. Let’s come to a solution. Let’s make America united again.
The consequences of ‘exaggeration’
LYDIA ECHOLS Staff Writer @lyd_echols During the Rio Olympics, U.S. swimmer Ryan Lochte caused a stir when he claimed he was robbed at gunpoint at a gas station in Rio. The story received immediate attention. Weeks later, Americans were stunned to discover the story was a lie. Mario Andrada, a spokesman for the Rio Olympics organizing committe went on the defense of Lochte and his teammates. “We need to understand that these kids were trying to have fun. Sometimes you take actions that you later
regret,” said Andrada. Andrada’s statement would make sense if it was referring to a teenager who got caught playing hooky from school. It does not make sense when it is referring to a 32-year-old man and three of his teammates, who drunkenly defaced and urinated on public property. They did not make any attempt to fix the damage beyond giving a small amount of money to armed security guards. They then proceeded to lie about the incident, causing a major distraction from the 2016 Olympic Games and embarrassing the host city, Rio de Janeiro. The repercussions have rolled in steadily for Lochte. Rio requested an investigation into the incident. At home, Lochte lost his claims to four major sponsorships in the span of an evening. The fact of the matter is he lied while residing in another country and representing the U.S., embarrassing the same Americans who had vouched for him weeks before. The incident happened and there’s
nothing he could have done about it after the fact, but there was no need to lie about it. Lochte has come forward and apologized, but the end is not in sight for the man who coined the phrase “Jeah.” Many suspect his Olympic career is over, while his new place on Dancing
with the Stars has just begun. Wherever one stands on this event in Olympic history, the truth is clear: these were not kids who were playing hooky. These were grown men who embarrassed a country and its people by lying and committed an unacceptable act.
Courtesy photo
Ryan Lochte has been suspended for 10 months due to his actions.
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20 • THE ORACLE • Friday, September 9, 2016