The Shield | Winter 2013 | Volume 13 Issue 3

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15 Atheist Church 5-Hour Energy Presidential Proposal Malala Yousafzai Honors Program & The Festival of Purim T-Hall Swipin’ Out Meet Dean Cain The King’s English Here Comes A Surreal Reality Gun Control Are You In-The-Know?

Lifetime vs. Chartwells Morsels True Warrior: Dramell Hogan Women’s Basketball Baseball Spring Training Public Displays of Faith Sara’s Spotlight Flight Crew: Dan Thomas History Of The Activity Rock Nerf Wars Super Bowl Party The Crucible Preview Zumba Winter Recap

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theshield FOR THE LATEST & GREATEST

WWW.RCSHIELD.COM

on't and d et g r fo

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meetus. www.rcshield.com

Winter 2013 • Volume 13 • Issue 3

THE INDEPENDENT STUDENT PUBLICATION OF ROCHESTER COLLEGE

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Kayce McClure

DESIGN MANAGER

Nick Simonis

NEWS EDITOR

Kaylee Anderson

FEATURES EDITOR

Chelsea Hackel

OPINIONS EDITOR

Holly Hemmings

SPORTS EDITOR

Brooke Watts

ACTIVITIES EDITOR

Natalie Redmond

PHOTO EDITOR

Phil Perry

COPY EDITOR

Rebekah Haigh

ASST. SPORTS EDITOR Sara Beason WRITERS

Laura Corp, Lindsay Baslock, Brett Farris, Mandi Khun, Cathryn Mankiewicz, Katie Martelle, Sarah Roper

DESIGNERS

Laura Corp, Beth Hageman

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Brittany Burke, Jessica Chisholm, Cathryn Mankiewicz, Kirsten Rudd

ONLINE EDITORS

BROADCAST PRODUCERS

Andrew Warnke Porschia Williams Katie Martelle Dan Lujan Rebekah Haigh

ADVISER BROADCAST ADVISER Lora Hutson Darren McCullough DESIGN ADVISER ONLINE ADVISER Liz Fulton Carol Cooper

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Welcome to theshield

I love winter. I know a lot of people don’t, and I get it. I mean, it’s cold. Really cold. Before you go anywhere, you have to bundle up, put on your hat, gloves, coat, scarf and boots, just to go from AG to the Student Center. And the sun goes down before you finish your supper.

Winter can be a pain.

Nothing beats driving on snow-covered roads or slipping on a patch of ice. Oh, and did I mention having to scrape your car windows off before you go anywhere? That’s a hassle.

Don’t get me started on the salt. I know it helps melt the ice, but it ruins shoes and the salt rim around the bottom of your jeans is highly unattractive.

But boy, do I love winter. I love bundling up

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in a warm sweater with a blanket on my lap next to a fireplace. I love seeing the sun glisten on the snow-covered ground. I love watching the snowflakes fall, each snowflake being uniquely designed.

Oh! Don’t forget about snow days. Nothing beats waking up to a snow day, then spending the day sledding and building snowmen and igloos.

Those things are pretty great, but my favorite part is watching people slow down.

When it snows, you watch your step a little closer; you drive a little slower and sometimes you must take a day off.

Like most everything, it has its flaws, but I do love the winter.

TALK TO US

“

We want to hear what concerns you, tickles you or ticks you off about theshield!

Email us at theshield@rc.edu with your comments and suggestions.

Is 5-Hour Energy Harmful?

5-hour Energy has become a popular choice of energy for people of all ages, replacing typical energy beverages Staff Writer such as Monster and Red Bull. Introduced in 2004, it has become a household name that is well-advertised.

As well known as it is and as often as you used it during the vigorous final exam time last semester, some side effects have come to light recently. On Nov. 14, 2012, the federal government received 13 death notices that involved 5-hour Energy over the past four years.

Founder and CEO Manoj Bhargava rebutted the rumors of the deathly scare. “I would not sell a product my family wouldn’t use,” he stated in a CBS News interview.

Some have said that the packaging advertises false statements about the nutrition facts within the product. Health experts have

LINDSAY BASLOCK

found that 5-hour Energy is just another common energy kick.

Energy drinks, as well as 5-hour Energy, get their kick from caffeine (207mg). Each container is related to a medium (Grande) coffee from Starbucks. Experts have concluded that consumption of 400mg of caffeine within one day is OK, but any more than that dose could lead to heart problems in the future.

Although claims have been made that young children have died because of the product, Bhargava says 5-hour Energy is no different than giving your kids a shot of espresso. The packaging clearly states that no one under 12 years old is recommended to consume it.

“If any adult gives their kids espresso or coffee, I think they’re irresponsible,” Bhargava said. Taking 5-hour Energy comes with its own risks, which should be weighed after reading the facts on the label.

The Sunday Assembly: Church For The Nonreligious A group of Londoners, led by comedians Sanderson Jones and Pippa Evans, recently opened doors to a Activities Editor new type of congregation: Atheist church.

The group, known as the Sunday Assembly, held its first meeting on Jan. 6 and plans to meet on the first Sunday of each month. Two hundred members strong, the organization has already begun making waves in religious and secular communities alike.

Billed by Huffington Post UK as “a chance for disillusioned former believers, nostalgic atheists and anybody searching for a sense of community, to meet and ‘turn good intentions into action.’ ” The group’s paradoxical identity as a nonreligious church leaves some religious leaders skeptical.

“How can you be an atheist and worship in a church? Surely it’s a contradiction of terms.

Who will they be singing to?” asked Clerkenwell Catholic leader Rev. Saviour Grech.

However, the purpose of the Sunday

PAGE DESIGNED BY: KAYCE McCLURE

NATALIE REDMOND

Assembly is not to worship a divinity; rather the congregation endeavors to build relationships within the church and join together to serve the surrounding community. With a mission statement to “live better, help often, wonder more,” the Sunday Assembly keeps intact the benevolent intentions of a traditional religious group, but eliminates the expected focus on God. Even among the atheistic community, though, criticism has befallen the Sunday Assembly. Atheists have complained that the group attempts to turn atheism into its own religion; however, the Assembly’s creators deny this claim. “We’re not saying atheism is a religion at all. We’re just building a useful community,” Jones said.

Though started by a pair of comedians, the existence of the Sunday Assembly is not intended as a mere publicity stunt. On the contrary, each service is carefully planned in supplement to a particular theme, with guest speakers, meditations and songs chosen accordingly.

Fittingly for the New Year, the group’s first service discussed “Beginnings.” Andy Stanton,

a children’s book author, spoke on the topic of achievement in the face of adversity, and afterwards, each congregant was invited to privately meditate on his or her own fears of failure. Appropriately, the community also joined together for a rendition of Oasis’ song “Don’t Look Back in Anger.”

Despite not being a religious function, the Sunday Assembly still retains the most important elements of its theistic counterparts.

Through its focus on building community ties, bringing positive change to individual lives and collaborating on projects to serve the public, the Sunday Assembly intends to be a valuable organization.

Ultimately, theistic differences between the Sunday Assembly and Christian churches are unimportant. Whether serving God or serving from a humanistic perspective, all churches can benefit from similarly refocusing their aims to the simple goal of unifying to assist others.

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A PRESIDENTAL PROPOSAL:

ROCHESTER COLLEGE OR ROCHESTER UNIVERSITY? When you hear the word ‘college,’ what do you think?

REBEKAH Community college? FourHAIGH year institution or twoCOPY EDITOR year institution?

What about the word ‘university’? Do you immediately associate words like: prestige, expense, graduate school…or do you even care?

Well your opinion matters because President Rubel Shelly has a proposal: “I’d like for you to give me your feelings and feedback on the idea — the advisability — of changing our name from Rochester College to Rochester University.”

He believes this might be the season for such a change.

“Twenty-five years ago, there was a gentleman’s understanding that university was for big schools with schools of education, and schools of medicine, and schools of this and schools of that. Undergraduate teaching colleges that focus on bachelors-level work tended to be called colleges,” Shelly said.

It is Shelly’s opinion that such a “gentleman’s understanding” is slowly becoming history, largely because of the community college phenomenon.

“In the last several years, our recruiters in the Midwest and Great Lakes area have been running into a problem: They are having to spend too much time clarifying to potential

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students that Rochester College is a four-year degree granting institution — not a two year community college,” he said. “The term ‘college’ is creating ambiguity; they hear ‘college’ and think it’s a two-year school, a junior college.”

The word “university” sounds so much more sophisticated, one RC student told Shelly. “I just thought a university has got to be better than a college,” she wrote to him in an e-mail.

Imagine the confusion if Oakland University were named Oakland College!

After all, when many people think of “Oakland College,” they think of the nearby community college. The name “Oakland University,” on the other hand, preserves its distinction as a four-year college. Plus, as some students have pointed out, “university” simply sounds a bit more prestigious.

“There are lots of schools with 300 or 400 students that call themselves universities.

And, by contrast, there are a few rather big academic enterprises — with large graduate programs — that still call themselves colleges,” Shelly said. “There never was a rigid distinction between college and university.”

RC’s name has even caused confusion with international students. Shelly noted that one of the Chinese gentlemen who arranges for Chinese students to attend schools in the United States “recoiled from the idea that students ready to do university-level work would be attending Rochester College because in China ‘college’ means high school,”

Shelly said. “It dawned on me — I think while I was having that conversation — ‘you’ve been wrong about resisting the name change!’ ” RC meets all the requirements of Michigan’s governing body for post-secondary education to make the name change.

In fact, Shelly noted that RC now has professional schools in place for disciplines such as nursing, education and business. RC is also working on adding additional graduate programs beyond the Masters in Religious Education currently offered by the School of Theology and Ministry.

However, Shelly is not trying to force a name change. “I don’t think that’s a decision for one person to make unilaterally. I could simply go to the board, get a resolution, file the papers, and change our signage. We would be Rochester University at that point.

I don’t think I should do it that way. I think I should take your pulse and ask students about their preference,” he said.

“I really do want to do what will reflect the sentiment of the folks who live and work, study and teach here. I don’t want it to be about my judgment alone.”

The ball is in our court now, so please get involved in the discussion! RC or RU? The decision is yours.

Go to rcshield.com to take a survey and voice your opinion about this issue. The survey will close on March 1.

Malala Yousafzai

PAGE DESIGNED BY: RACHEL GRANT

by KAYCE McCLURE Time magazine announced that Malala Yousafzai would be second to only President Barack Obama in its coveted Person of Year issue this past December. What makes Malala Yousafzai important enough to receive such an honor? At the young age of 15, Malala has changed the world.

On Oct. 9, 2012, Malala crammed onto a bus with 13 other girls her age and three teachers who were on their way home from school in Swat, Pakistan. The young girls were chatting when a man with a gun came onto the bus and asked, “Which one is Malala?”

No one said a word, but as Shazia Ramzan, another young girl on the bus, said, “…we must have looked at her.” The gunman shot Malala in the head, then shot two other girls before leaving the bus. The shots were nearly fatal. Nearly.

Along with the two other girls, Malala survived the attack on her life. The bullet went through her head in a downward trajectory, nicking her jaw, before going through her neck and then settling in the muscle above her left shoulder. She was rushed to a nearby hospital, then sent to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham, England, for more extensive surgery. She was released in early January.

What would cause such a horrific act? At such a young age, Malala was an activist for women’s education in Pakistan. In September 2008, she presented a speech, “How Dare the Taliban Take Away My Basic Right to Education,” to an audience filled with national press at the provincial capital of Peshawar.

That was just the beginning as Malala began writing as an anonymous blogger for BBC and meeting with government officials to promote an increase in funding for education.

Malala’s actions outraged the Taliban, and the group decided she needed to be silenced.

“We did not want to kill her, as we knew it would cause us a bad name in the media,” said Sirajuddin Ahmad, a senior commander and spokesman for the Swat Taliban. “But there was no other option.”

The Taliban had one thing right. This act most certainly gave the group a more evil reputation. Though Malala still needs to undergo surgery to rebuild her skull, she has made a remarkable recovery and an even

more remarkable statement.

Malala is a symbol of courage, strength and valor in the fight for women’s rights in segregated countries such as Pakistan.

And she is not alone.

Her story has sparked an outcry from people around the world.

People like Megan Smith, vice president of Google, and Mark Kelly, astronaut, have organized what they call the Malala Fund, which will provide grants for education. People around the world have contributed thousands of dollars to the fund, and it keeps growing each day. With a Yousafzai family friend, a group of graduate students from the United States has raised over $50,000 alone. More importantly, Asif Ali Zardari, president of Pakistan, announced that $10 million will be given to education in Pakistan under Malala’s name.

Malala’s future is unsure as she makes a full recovery in England and, then, must decide whether or not to return to Pakistan. She would be safe in England where she could receive a fantastic education, but Malala isn’t looking for safe. She wishes to return to Pakistan.

Whatever she decides, she knows that she is not alone. The day the Taliban decided to silence Malala was the day the world heard her, loud and clear.

WHAT YOU CAN DO Scan this QR code with your smart phone to donate to the Malala Fund and help Malala in her fight for equal education rights in Pakistan.

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Go The Extra Academic Mile College students commonly view their general education credits merely as required classes that must be tolerated. However, for Activities Editor those looking to broaden their liberal arts education in an exciting and challenging way, Rochester College’s honors program offers an opportunity not to be missed.

All students with a 3.3 GPA or higher qualify for the honors program. Classes offered are interdisciplinary, and can be flexibly fit into a degree program. Students engage in focus topics in classes such as “The American Experience,” “The Psychology and Theology of Sci-Fi, Fantasy and Horror,” and “Global Citizenship.”

The honors program is intended to “encourage students to think critically, ask questions and guide course discussions. Many courses also feature travel, enhanced research opportunities and guest speakers.”

In addition to providing a unique learning opportunity, completed honors courses are excellent additions to a student’s resume. Two different merits are available. By completing a 14-credit honors core, students may earn

NATALIE REDMOND

an “Honors Scholar” distinction, and with 20 credits fulfilled, a student may graduate as a “Distinguished Honors Scholar.”

To give students even more flexibility, upper-level courses may be “contracted” in order to add an honors component. A student may work independently under the guidance of a professor to complete an additional research project of his or her own design, which will be counted for credit. This allows busy students to participate in the program without sacrificing elective space in their degree plans.

In order to promote the honors program, a council of students has been formed to organize events and provide curriculum input.

Students interested in participating in honors events are encouraged to attend the honors focus chapel, which will take place on March 19.

Additionally, the honors program will be hosting a “Cookies and Cram” event in the Chill on Feb. 26 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Stop by for free cookies, more information about the honors program and some last-minute studying.

For more information on the honors program, email honors@rc.edu, “like” Honors at Rochester College on Facebook, or contact

Dr. Anne Nichols or any of the council officers pictured below.

Photo by Phil Perry

The newly-formed Honors Council includes Alayna Moury, treasurer; Chelsea Hackel, president; Rachel Miller, vice president; Natalie Redmond and Kim Ferns (not pictured), communication officers.

They welcome your suggestions and feedback!

The Festival Of Purim Where is God when we need Him most?

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God did not appear, but Queen Esther did.

She went to the king’s court un-summoned, an action meriting death. Shockingly, the king granted her any petition, even up to half his kingdom.

Esther had a plan. She wined and dined the king and Haman at two banquets before springing her request: her life and the life of her people. Esther revealed her identity as a Jew and Haman’s as her archenemy. Enraged, the King executed Haman and authorized the Jews to kill any who rose against them. On the 13th of Adar, Haman’s 10 wicked sons were hung, along with thousands of others. With them, died Haman’s evil plot.

For the last two thousand years, the festival of Purim has celebrated Esther’s bravery and her deliverance of the Jewish people.

However, the book of Esther does not even mention God. Where was God when Israel needed Him most?

But that is the wrong question. Instead of asking “Where is God?,” we should ask, “Where are we?” Where are we when others are in pain

and suffering? Where are we when a hurting, godless world needs God’s light? Who are we to say that God will not give each of us an ‘Esther-moment’?

When we rise to the occasion, we become the unmistakable evidence of a God not seen, in a world that doubts He is even there. That is the message of Purim.

Creepy Fact:

On Oct. 1, 1946, moments before swinging to his death, Nazi criminal Julius Streicher screamed, “Purim Fest 1946!” He was one of 10 war criminals convicted to hang in the Nuremberg trials.

The Hebrew text of the book of Esther lists the 10 sons of Haman but lists three of the names in smaller print than the rest. The numerical value of these three odd letters in Hebrew is the Jewish year 5707… or 1946.

Talk about history repeating itself.

PAGES DESIGNED BY: CHELSEA HACKEL

When a terrorist bombs a busload of people, children are slaughtered in an elementary school or people Copy Editor in third world countries live in oppression and poverty, one question haunts us. Where is God? The festival of Purim offers an intriguing answer. During the age of the Persian Empire, Haman, a descendent of one of Israel’s ancient enemies, rose to power and persuaded King Ahasuerus to rid the empire of the Jewish people.

“Their laws are different from those of every other people, and they do not keep the king’s laws, so that it is not to the king’s profit to tolerate them.” Esther 8:3 Haman convinced the king to allow him and his 10 sons to oversee this genocide of the Jewish people on the 13th of Adar. Haman issued an edict encouraging empire-wide participation. At this dark hour, the Jewish people would have certainly asked, “Where is God?”

REBEKAH HAIGH

1.) Get out your smartphone.

2.) Scan that QR code.

PAGE DESIGNED BY: NICK SIMONIS

3.) And we’re on the air in 5, 4, 3, 2, 1...

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“He had always been positive about things, even when I had my head down.”

–MATT FENECH

He is my mentor and I cherish his leadership…

-JOHN LaROCQUE

Mentor. Life-changer. Leader.

Challenger. The Man With All The CHELSEA Answers. It’s hard to sum up the HACKEL influence Terrill Hall has had in the lives of countless Rochester Features Editor College students. From latenight talks, to blunt remarks, to heartfelt encouragement, T-Hall has spent the last nine years making a difference in the RC community.

While employed in Student Development, Terrill oversaw student activities — particularly Student Government, social clubs and intramurals, but that was only his technical job description. The former assistant dean saw the students themselves as his real focus.

Throughout his years at RC, he worked hard and loved harder in order to make a difference in the lives of every student here.

“He has the God given talent of getting to know anyone who he meets, people feel at ease with him in a matter of seconds and he makes one believe that he will be there for you should you ever have a need,” said Candace Cain, dean of students. Cain was initially responsible for hiring Terrill, and says she had her eye on him for a job in Student Development before he even applied for the position.

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It didn’t matter whether it was his job or a conversation, he always took the time to listen and see what he could do. And of course he always brought humor into just about every situation. -KATELYN BRACKNEY I probably caused Terrill a lot of stress over the last year and a half because I led everyone to him…but hey, he knew all the answers! –BROOKE WATTS

As a student, Terrill was heavily involved on campus. He was student body president, vice president of finance for Student Government, and held multiple jobs, in addition to holding the position of yearbook photo editor and acting as an RA for Hoggatt residence hall his senior year.

Cain said that even as a student, Terrill invested deeply in others’ lives. “ He grew in his leadership over his time as a student, connecting with every student who came our way,” she said.

And once he began working in SD, Terrill’s ability to get to the heart of an issue and show students that he truly cared became even more obvious.

“He made a very reluctant army vet feel like he belonged…no one can ever know how important that is,” said student Anthony Ventimiglia.

Terrill said of all his responsibilities while working at RC, overseeing StuGov was his favorite. He loved the opportunity to watch students grow and find new ways to impact the student body.

Cain also said she could count on Terrill to be the last one at every event, making sure there were no loose ends and answering questions.

This lines up with Terrill’s focus for his career: making it less about a job and more about

looking for ways to serve others.

“I told myself that it was a ministry and it was not about me… Too many times in a job you forget why you’re there and that takes away from doing the job to the fullest,” he said.

Nearly every student felt the positive impact

of Terrill’s dedication as they interacted with him and learned from him, and student Matt Fenech summed up what most of us are thinking as T-Hall swipes out of the RC community.

“I wouldn’t say that we lost the assistant dean, I would say that we lost a best friend, one that cannot be replaced. We love you Terrill!”

PAGES DESIGNED BY: BETH HAGERMAN

Terrill knows when to step back and let people be, and he knows when to step in and call all of us back to the grounded Christ-like life we want to live, but don’t always know how to live.

-MIRIAH JONES

John LaRocque You’re welcome RC, because of us, you have plowed parking lots, salted sidewalks and a snow day — with Chris Winter and Kaylee DeAnn Higle.

10 hours ago · Comment · Like

Caleb Stinnett That moment when everything you are reading just disappears into nothingness... lol I’m done!

January 14· Comment · Like

Alexander Ball Convincing your friend that there is an assignment due for a class in a half hour then sending yourself fake emails to further prove to him that there actually is homework due. — with Matthew Sanders.

Tuesday · Comment · Like

PLEASE NOTE

Thanks, guys!

Miriah Jones Looking at pictures of Ireland makes me sad that my ancestors left. Better life and such, I get it but come on it’s gorgeous!

15 hours ago · Comment · Like

Cheyanne Daniels ‎Mrs. Reddick: Who else is from Canada Shelby: I am and so is Cheyanne.

Me: Yeah I’m from Canada, why?

Mrs. Reddick: Because you get extra credit for being from Canada!!

Me and Shelby: SWEET :D 18 hours ago · Comment · You Like This Kaylee DeAnn Higle

Stayed surprisingly engaged

through every minute of a movie about church history today... It

didn’t take Katy Peacock long to

figure out why... Liam Neeson was the narrator.

It’s all making sense to me now...

February 7 · Comment · Like

Compiled by Kayce McClure. The Shield prints Facebook statuses as they appear when posted. To see yourself in the ”What’s New on Facebook?” recap next issue, become a fan of The Shield Online.

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MEET

Dean Cain

BY KAYCE McCLURE

Allow me to introduce Candace Cain, the new dean of students… well, sort of new. This isn’t Dean Cain’s first rodeo. She served as dean of students from 1991 until 2007.

Between her stints at RC, Cain worked as the executive director for New Friends New Life, a non-profit organization in Dallas that helps women leave the degradation of the sex industry and seeks to create a sustainable life through financial assistance, education, counseling, life skills and job training. In 2010, she was recruited to become executive director of Arms of Hope in Medina, Texas, which is a residential service facility helping single moms and children coming out of distress, homelessness and domestic violence.

However, she’s back now and ready to take on the dean of students role once again. The dean of students can be a nasty job. Essentially, the dean of students is a disciplinarian. Being sent to the dean’s office usually means you have done something wrong, but don’t worry about that. All RC students are always on their best behavior, right?

There is a brighter side to the dean of students role. Cain puts it like this: “I oversee student activity outside the classroom, working in conjunction with the classroom experience. This ensures that RC students have opportunities to expand their growth in a wide variety of experiences, including integrating faith with who they are and will become.”

PAGES DESIGNED BY:

Don’t get too caught up with her intelligent mumbo jumbo. Basically, she’s here for you. She wants to see each student reach his or her potential. She sounds like a pretty cool person, huh? Well, if you aren’t convinced, check out our Q&A with Dean Cain.

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My daughter felt God was giving me a great opportunity to do something different that would prove to me the diversity of my skill set. The last five years directing two nonprofits engaged in helping the distressed and marginalized have been eye-opening and invigorating. Yet, when I heard there was an opening for my former position here at Rochester College, I was moved to believe that God was not quite done with me in this arena. I feel strongly about being a stable but accountable voice to the young people I come in contact with. It is my prayer to help point them toward a trajectory that helps them envision, embrace and realize their future.

The renewal of friendships and the beginning of new friendships. To use what I have learned over the past 25 years to continue to stabilize and ground the college as we pursue fulfilling our mission, seek best practices, and connect and impact our community and the students God allows to come our way. I’m ready to listen, question and encourage students, staff and faculty so we are who God created us to be.

I was born in Kermit, Texas, but my family (Mom, Dad and three brothers) moved around often throughout Texas, Kansas and Louisiana.

We landed in New Orleans where my brothers and I spent our teenage years. I lived in Baton Rouge (graduated with a BS from LSU) for 7 years, lived in Arkansas for 3.5 years and Michigan for 16 years, before moving to Texas for 5 years. Now I am returning to the place where I have lived the longest. I know I still have a southern dialect, but it will eventually fade — at least until I visit my family where my “you guys” will unknowingly turn to “ya’ll.”

My daughter Sherri, who became my daughter in the mid-’90s. She was very ill at one point and was not expected to survive, but she did and has lived fully in every sense.

Her motto in life has always been to try and be aware of what God is trying to teach you in your life experiences, whether in good circumstances or terrible ones. Often your life is not about you at all. It is about God using you if you will allow him.

The first semester I came on as dean of students, we had a large incident in October where several male students had slipped out

after curfew during the week and created a stir around campus. They went to the girls’ hall, yelling and knocking on windows, scaring and waking many up.

Our security guard at the time sat out near the entrance to the Auditorium and his chair that he used every night had been taken. The perpetrators lived in Campus Center where the faculty now reside. The Resident Directors did room check to identify them, and sure enough, there were seven guys who had been in the hall at room check and were now missing.

Eventually the RD and security guard rounded them up as they were cold and ready to be in their warm beds. They were told to report to my office first thing the following morning.

All of them except one were involved in college-sponsored organizations ­ — Student Government, Chorus, Baseball, Basketball. After conferring with the president and directors, we decided to suspend them from several performances and games.

But one young man was not involved in any college activities, and we could not figure out how to best impact him given his irresponsibility. Finally we touched the one thing that meant most to him and that was his car. He had a new luxury car and he was made to park it at K-Mart for four weeks. Although he was allowed on campus, his car was not. Later he bemoaned to me that he wore out a pair of good shoes walking daily to his vehicle.

work. Sammy and the break remind me that whatever has happened has potential purpose or perhaps is best left as oftentimes what grows large in my mind is actually very small. I leave work around 5:30 or 6 p.m. Currently in the evenings I am studying, reading and writing for a class I am taking from Dr. Greg Stevenson.

At about 5:30 a.m., my dog Sammy appears at my bedside breathing in my face to let me know it is time to rise and shine. If it is earlier than 5:30, I tell him “It’s too early. We have another 15 minutes, go lay down,” and he does.

I get up early to read the Word, pray and drink my coffee ( I love coffee and espresso).

At 6:15 (still very dark out), I walk my dog Sammy for about 30 minutues and then I get ready for work. I like to get to work a little early and prepare for my day mentally. Generally, I have set appointments, meetings and planning sessions, but much of my day is filled with interruptions.

I also keep my phone close by in case someone needs to get in touch with me, and I do the best I can to keep up. I think part of the job is dealing, if possible in the moment, with whatever comes up, whether a crisis, a student needing to talk or some process that is broken down or impeding progress. Yet, sometimes, things need to marinate, allowing us to make a better decision, so I try and figure those aspects of the job out as I go.

At lunch I do try and sneak off to let Sammy out to stretch and have a bathroom break and give myself a few moments outside of my

I owned and worked a design business and drapery workroom for 7+ years in Louisiana and Arkansas.

Although I want students to have a great experience while at RC, I know much of that is up to them. I guess I would want them to know that my desire is for them to choose the things in life that will help stretch them. To look for their place in the world that helps the larger community, not merely their own small sphere, but what it looks like when their sphere intersects with the world at large in intentional ways. That looks different for everyone and that is O.K. I also believe I am here to grow too.

I was accepted to the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in California, but decided not to go.

I taught kindergarten and was called “Miss Candy.”

I have never married.

I loved working in Dallas directing a non- profit that helped women who were fleeing the sex industry, which included trafficked victims, prostitution and the strip club industry. I was constantly amazed at the strength of these women and their stories of survival and redemption.

My favorite artist and band is James Taylor and DC Talk (back in the day).

My favorite book is “The Razor’s Edge”. I loved visiting Prague for its history and architecture. I am also a big fan of Mackinac Island for its fudge and riding around the island.

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“Do you know what it sounds like when you chain two fuzzboxes, an overdrive, a phaser and a wah-wah together into a blistering amplifier? No? Well you will, and it’s gonna leave a mark.”

Those are the words posted on Facebook by The King’s English, a local band, self-defined as “bending and blending in different genres,” working on preparing its first album for release.

The album has the reputation of being “comically, eternally awaited,” according to the band’s website, but the guys are enthusiastic about the upcoming release.

Mike Miller, a 2012 Rochester College graduate and spokesperson for the band, said he and the other guys come to the songwriting process with a variety of ideas about the sound they’re looking for.

“We’ve got a wide range of tastes and styles, but the overlap is what brings it together,” he said.

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That overlap has grown into a successful presentation of The King’s English as a local band that has a definite sense of its own style, encouraging listeners to “get rocked proper.”

In addition to Mike on guitar, the band includes Ryan Tatti on drums and Max Prokop with bass and vocals, and the guys each bring unique perspectives to the band that result in what Mike calls “rock, with a little swagger.”

The Kings have all been musicians since they were kids but have only known one another for a little over five years. Despite this, Mike said they are like brothers.

“We argue occasionally, but overall we work pretty democratically. We try to explore different ideas that are presented [and] have a general rule that whoever created the original idea, what we call a germ, has final say in the direction of the music.”

The guys also have a good stage presence, something that many bands lack.

“I think we have a chemistry that allows us to bring it on a high level. We’re known for energetic live shows and our ability to improvise,” Mike said.

The Kings got their name from a line in Quentin Tarantino’s “Inglorious Bastards,” according to Mike, who also said that Max’s self-proclaimed titles of “lover-of-all-thingsBritish” and “unabashed Anglo-phile” also inspired the band’s name.

When the guys first met, they were part of a larger band that was attempting to pull itself back from when it had drifted away from its original goals.

“The three of us were feeling limited by that,” Mike said. “We made the decision to go out on our own to allow ourselves to be limitless in our scope.”

Limitless. One-of-a-kind. Energetic. With a status like this, The King’s English is ready to leave its mark on the world.

PAGE DESIGNED BY: CHELSEA HACKEL

by Chelsea Hackel

Photo by Cathryn Mankiewicz

Gun control has been a hot button topic for years, and the debate is rekindled every time a mass shooting occurs.

We read about innocent victim of gun violence and hear the endless circle of “Guns kill people!” versus, “No, people kill people!”

The National Rifle Association is attacked by gun control advocates, the other side uses the Second Amendment as a bludgeon, and arguments inevitably spiral down into shouting matches, either verbal or typed. Both sides have extremists, and both extremes are equally unreasonable and absurd.

There is no reason that a college student or a working person should need an assault rifle. No gun control whatsoever is equally foolish. And those who choose to carry a gun should be responsible about their decision.

Background checks and safety training are the government’s responsibility to ensure that an incompetent gun owner is not turned loose on the streets. The push toward completely eliminating guns centers around the assumption that criminals will follow the gun laws in the first place, yet they will still find a way to carry out their criminal act.

Historically, gun control has proved to be a bad idea. Hitler thought of it long before us, and many of the most horrific regimes and dictatorships in history took away their people’s right to bear arms. One argument we hear frequently is that we live in the 21st century, not the 18th. Does that matter?

Human nature is the same. Criminals still manage to break the law. What about the 21st century is different enough to justify taking away a person’s right to defend his or herself?

The Sandy Hook tragedy reopened this conflict in our nation. Politicians are promising change and new legislation while advocates of the Second Amendment howl and gun control backers cheer. I don’t know what the solution is. I do know that no matter what the politicians decide, God is in control.

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SARAH ROPER Staff Writer

“Y’all better redneckognize!” For me, that phrase was the frosting atop one of those moments where chills run down my spine and NICK I think to myself, “Why God, why?” None other than Miss Honey SIMONIS Boo Boo herself uttered those magical words, in the first and Design Manager last episode of “Here Comes Honey Boo Boo” that I have ever been subjected to.

What happened to terms like redneck being an insult? Or perhaps the wide acceptance of women calling each other the infamous “B” word, sometimes now even as a complement. When did it become OK to get ridiculously intoxicated and stumble around certain shores of Jersey, marring the Italian name on camera?

Who would produce these shows, right!? I believe it’s sad that entertainment has resorted to these shenanigans, but wait. The only way for these shows to stay afloat are with viewers, so the question I’d like to ask is this: Who’s watching them?

These days it seems that most people have one of those shows that they watch occasionally while thinking, “This is such smut. I can’t believe people like this. It’s just so silly.” The public becomes enraged when a string of dog fights hits the news, but find it popcorn-worthy to place ladies with severely short tempers all in one house just to see who can be the “baddest” in the club.

When we choose to watch these shows, we are supporting both their character and their wallets. I don’t have the answer for each individual, but I think we should take a step back and check our values both as consumers and Christians.

The Bible has some pretty powerful words to say about what we surround ourselves with. Proverbs 4:23 reads, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” What this verse is saying is that we need to be careful what we let into our ears, eyes and ultimately our hearts because what we let in comes back out. The Lord wants us to sustain a pure heart and mind, just as He created us with.

Think about what kind of traits you want to reflect in your life: Are the things you’re watching contributing to the kind of person you hope to be and who God would hope for you to be? While there are definitely many new entertaining shows, and I am not a recluse when it comes to comedy, I would encourage you to use some extra care next time you’re flipping through the channels trying to find something to watch. If that doesn’t work, I will dig deep to my ‘90s roots and ask you: “What Would Jesus Do?”

38% 34% 8% 20%

46% Internet 30% Social Media 16% Television

Events around the world Events within the US Events in the local area only Keep up with no current events

4% Newspaper 4% Other (Radio, Friends, Family)

*Based on a survey of 50 Rochester College Students

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94% Yes 6% No

HOLLY HEMMINGS Opinions Editor

Some of the most popular New Year’s resolutions are to lose weight, get fit and eat healthier. These goals are also the most commonly

broken by the end of the year.

Fortunately for Rochester College students, we have a Lifetime gym membership to take advantage. On the other hand, though, most of us find it difficult to eat well in the cafeteria.

Jessica Fill, sophomore, believes, “It’s a complete contradiction. They give us this membership and then feed us unhealthy food, which doesn’t promote a healthy lifestyle.”

dining on

CHARTWELLS// w o r k i n g o u t at LIFETIME Photos by Cathryn Mankiewicz

Shelby VanConant, junior, feels, “Chartwells food is unhealthy and greasy, so you don’t even feel motivated to go to the gym.”

So, how does a RC student live a healthy life and still eat on campus?

When asked how he stays fit, Anthony Ventimiglia, sophomore, recommended the most nutritious options.

“If you are trying to eat healthy, the best things would be the salads, pasta and chicken; stay away from fried foods. But if you’re trying to gain weight, then eat carbs and protein, and follow it up with a good workout regime,” he said.

Believe it or not, it is possible to both stay in shape and eat in the cafeteria.

“If you are really disappointed with the unhealthy selection of food, keep healthy snacks in your room to eat,” comments Elliott Kern, senior.

Be aware of how much food you eat; once you are full, stop eating. Little choices can also make big differences, like choosing to drink water instead of pop.

Finally, the cafeteria staff is there to serve the students. Pat Strzyinski is always trying

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to improve the available options and does so based on the comments he hears. If you are concerned, talk to Strzyinski or Student Government about what you would like to see changed.

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Morsels

FLICKS

little nuggets of entertainment goodness

The life story of Jackie Robinson and his historymaking signing with the Brooklyn Dodgers under the guidance of team executive Branch Rickey.

watch the trailer check out imdb.com for more movie info

The Great Gatsby

After Earth

Nick Carraway finds himself fascinated by the mysterious past and lavish lifestyle of his neighbor, Jay Gatsby. He is drawn into Gatsby’s circle, becoming a witness to obsession and tragedy.

A court martial sends a veteran soldier to a distant planet, where he has to destroy the remains of an alien race. The arrival of an unexpected traveler causes him to question what he knows.

After a crash landing, a father and son explore a planet that was evacuated by humans 1,000 years earlier.

11/22/63

The Red Tent

Torn

PAG E S

by Stephen King

On Nov. 22, 1963, three shots rang out in Dallas. President Kennedy died, and the world changed. What if you could change it? A man travels back in time to prevent the JFK assassination.

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Oblivion

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by Anita Diamant

Her name is Dinah.

In the Bible, her life is only hinted at in a brief and violent detour within the more familiar chapters of the Book of Genesis that tell of her father, Jacob, and his 12 sons.

by Justin Lee Nicknamed “God Boy” by his peers, he knew that he was called to a life in the evangelical Christian ministry.

But Lee harbored a secret: He also knew that he was gay. His journey led him to self-acceptance.

JAMS

LISTEN Sugar & the Hi Lows “See It For Yourself”

Good Old War “Amazing Eyes”

Anais Mitchell

Anais Mitchell has been called the “Queen of Modern Folk,” and you probably have never heard of her. Her unique voice and girlwith-a-guitar sound make it hard not to be mesmerized by her music.

Page CXVI “Nothing But the Blood of Jesus”

Anais Mitchell “Coming Down”

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Churchill “Change”

Purity Ring “Obedear”

High Society Collective “Take Off”

Have film, book or music suggestions?

Send us a recommendation at theshield@rc.edu

The Naked and Famous “Young Blood”

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TRUE WARRIOR:

DRAMELL HOGAN Dramell Hogan is a senior and a captain on the Rochester College BROOKE men’s basketball team. Not WATTS only has Dramell earned 1st Sports Editor team All-American, been a part of the National Championship All-Tournament team and been awarded the Madonna Classic Tournament MVP, he also has blossomed into a full-fledged leader both on and off the court.

Dramell first came to RC merely to play basketball. However, over the years he has come to appreciate the man that RC has helped him transform in to. “I have grown into a much better person than any other school could have offered me,” he said.

He says being a part of the basketball team is one reason for his transformation. “Being a part of a program like this is way more than just about basketball,” Dramell said. “This program has been teaching young men for years on having a good character in everything that we do.” The teammates surrounding him have become like a family to him.

Outside of playing on RC’s basketball team, Dramell enjoys coaching younger kids at Coach Garth Pleasant’s basketball camps. Watching the kids grow over the years has made his summers extremely memorable.

According to Coach Klint Pleasant, Dramell wasn’t always a natural leader. “After the first few years, you could see a light go off, and Dramell simply started to blossom athletically, academically and spiritually,” he said.

After working with the coach over the last year, he has managed to step up and provide much needed leadership for the team. Dramell is a standout on the court, which gives him credibility to his fellow teammates; he also has the “ability to encourage others and communicate in a way that demands effort from all his teammates.”

Pleasant said that Dramell isn’t only a leader on the court. He also leads many of the team prayers and has grown into being someone the team can count on academically. Pleasant is extremely proud of Dramell for being an example to the rest of his teammates; he isn’t afraid to ask questions, gives great effort on and off the court and knows how to encourage the rest of his teammates.

Dramell hopes above all else that his team will win a national championship this year. With the outstanding team he is a part of this year, he believes it is a very realistic goal and would love to see his team succeed all the way until the end.

“To me, Dramell (and stories like his) is why we exist here at RC. RC has truly rubbed off on him, and he will be a better person spiritually and academically when he leaves than when he first arrived…of course, he has grown a lot on the court as well and, that makes his time here truly memorable,” Pleasant said.

Pleasant pointed out that Dramell will be irreplaceable to the basketball program after he graduates, but hopes that he will help in recruiting players to join RC’s basketball team in the future.

“Dramell is one of those guys that we will be talking about and pointing to several years from now,” Pleasant said.

Photo by Cathryn Mankiewicz

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Warrior Baseball: Bring On The Heat It’s that time of CATHRYN the year MANKIEWICZ a g a i n !

Staff Writer Baseball season is right around the corner, and the Warriors are about to head south for 10 days of spring training (March 1–March 10). They’ll be stopping in Columbia, S.C. to play Benedict College (NCAA DII) before arriving at Vero Beach Sports Village—former home of the LA Dodgers.

“There is a lot of baseball history at this place.

Our guys will be pitching on the same mounds that Sandy Koufax pitched on. Our outfielders will be chasing down baseballs in the same outfield that Jackie Robinson once played on. It is a great location for us to get the season started,” said Jordan Ackerman, head baseball coach.

On the way back, the team will make one last stop in Lawrenceville, Ga., to play NAIA opponent, Georgia Gwinnett College. Ackerman took some time to share with us how he feels about the upcoming season.

Q A

What do you personally hope to see cultivated in the team during spring training this year?

“Spring training has always been about bringing the guys together as a team.

This is also an opportunity for guys to win or lose jobs on the field. Most teams look at this week as a true ‘spring training’ where they do not care about winning or losing, where we take it as one of the most important weeks of the year. This week allows us to earn the respect of the USCAA coaches and climb the polls to give us a good shot at making the national tournament at the end of the season.”

How do you envision this baseball season turning out? What are you hoping for?

Last season the guys really played above what I thought we were capable of, and we were young. Now we have a crew of veterans returning and some solid freshmen that could

put us in a good position to win games. We will really be leaning on our seniors in outfielders David Woodson and Eric Ramirez, along with one of the top pitchers in the Midwest, Johnny Barreto, and catcher Carlos Zabaleta. Senior Ray Yesh will also be looked upon for some big at-bats for us this season.”

What do you see as attainable for the team, and what can we expect from our Warriors?

“I know one thing is for sure, our guys are going to work day in and day out. We play all the Wolverine Hooser Conference byeweek games, so our schedule is going to be extremely challenging. We have the talent and depth to win a lot of games if we can stay healthy, but, as baseball goes, on any given day, any team can beat any team.”

When is the first home game of the season?

“Our home-opener is scheduled for Sunday, March 17, against Lourdes University. As always, we will be giving away Buffalo Wild Wings gift certificates so come out and support your Warriors.”

Women’s Basketball Competes Well

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BROOKE WATTS Sports Editor

Rochester College’s women’s basketball team had a very tough schedule this past season, but the team still fought hard.

The team played against NCAA Division I Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne, NCAA Division II Grand Valley State University and NCAA Division III Calvin College.

“The Calvin coach told me that he thinks we’ve played the toughest schedule in the country,” said head coach Eric Sims.

Sims is proud of his team’s performance against the tougher teams. In the past, RC’s women’s basketball team has never come within 40 points of a DI team, but against IPFW, the teams were tied with eight minutes left in the game and only lost by 12 points. Although missing two starting guards, RC only lost by 11 points to GVSU. In the past, the team has never been within 35 points of this opponent.

At one point during the season, the team was ranked first in the country in NAIA

Division II in defensive field goal percentage and ranked second in points against.

Looking back, Sims said he wishes his team had closed more games. “We have been competitive in so many games against bigger schools, but just haven’t been able to get the win.” However, he is happy with his team’s effort in every game played and with the players’ ability to represent RC’s values.

As for the rest of the season, Sims’ biggest goal is to qualify for postseason tournaments by winning enough games. As the team is in its first year of playing in the NAIA, it has the chance to qualify for the NAIA Conference Tournament.

The team is losing five seniors for next season, including Sam Tomaschko, a two-time All-American, and Lexy Newsom, who was an All-American honorable mention last season.

Although the team will be losing some great players, several outstanding freshmen will be returning to the hardwoods, as well as some promising incoming recruits.

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With athletes constantly participating in public displays of faith, it is difficult to ignore the impact they are having on the world.

In the past five years, a quarterback inspired more than 90 million people to search for John 3:16 online, making it the highest ranked Google search Staff Writer for a full 24 hours. A surfer who has lost a limb still praised Jesus, and a gold medal-winning gymnast boasted of God’s faithfulness.

Athletes reach audiences far beyond a typical pastor’s Sunday morning congregation. So what is it about Christian athletes in the last few years that has caused so much talk about Jesus these days?

Tim Tebow is currently one of the most recognized quarterbacks in professional football.

People gravitate to his philanthropy and faith; they recognize his pose of kneeling and praying.

Was anyone really watching the Jets this season due to their winning record- or was it the hope of actually seeing Tebow bend a knee and pray during a game?

Gabby Douglas came and conquered the London Olympics. You may have fallen in love with the “Flying Squirrel,” who was the first African-American woman to win the women’s allaround individual and team gymnastics competitions. After she won, the 16-year-old said in an interview with NBC that her gold medals were a win-win situation because she gave God the glory and He showered her with blessings.

Allyson Felix came to London with nothing to lose and everything to gain—three gold medals to be exact. When USA Today asked Felix why she runs, she said running was her God-given talent and “it’s all about using it to the best of my ability.” I think it’s safe to say she’s literally running after Jesus.

Bethany Hamilton lost an arm in a shark attack while surfing. Bubba Watson swings pink clubs on the green. Jason Hanson is known for his faith and leadership both on and off the football field.

Everyone has someone they look to for leadership. We watch these men and women closely not because their sport defines them but because Jesus does.

Each athlete has different talents and obstacles. Our favorites often set a standard we wish to find within ourselves. So ask yourself this dangerous question: Who is watching you in the same way you are watching Kurt Warner and Jeremy Lin? No matter how rich or talented we are, we are all affecting someone. The accountability can be scary, but we all impact someone for the good or the bad.

“I think if you’re a Christian, you always have a responsibility to live out the Christian life in whatever setting you’re in,” said Klint Pleasant, men’s basketball coach. “It doesn’t matter if you are at home with your family, at work or doing things recreationally, you don’t turn your Christian life on or off. Your life should be your ministry.”

For Christian athletes, it is not always their fame or statistics, but rather how they live—simple public displays of faith. What are yours?

MANDI KHUN

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An athlete needs to do what is best for his or her game. It is no secret that team unity is no longer the primary focus in professional sports.

In order to contend in the professional league, one

by Sara Beason has to stoop to things that other leagues would never allow.

The NBA has received the most grief regarding selfish players over the past few years. It really escalated when LeBron James decided to leave the Cleveland Cavaliers to join the Miami Heat; many viewed it as self-absorbed and cowardly.

In reality, that is what the league breathes.

The three main goals of most NBA players are money, rings and MVPs. James was not satisfied with only two, so he did what was necessary to get the third.

What does not make sense, however, is the fact that Dwight Howard did the same thing by leaving the Orlando Magic and joining the Los Angeles Lakers at the beginning of the 2012-13 season. Now, Howard did not throw himself an abandoning-my-team party, but the core motivation was still selfishly based.

Does the action of switching teams truly make an athlete any less of a team player?

After all, professional athletic careers are measured mostly on an individual level.

“You can’t win titles or awards without the others on the field or court with you,” junior Ron Carter said. “What if you give [Justin] Verlander the ball and say here you go, take them on yourself or giving Kobe [Bryant] the ball and trying to score on five defenders by himself? He couldn’t even pass the ball to himself without teammates.”

As Christian athletes in the collegiate level such as Rochester College, how does an athlete find success without being deemed selfish? Some would argue that it is simply not possible. It is a career, after all, so money must be a priority. “Money comes with it if you play the game the way it’s supposed to be played,” Carter said. “You’re going to get paid regardless and make good money doing it.”

The financial aspect is only a third of the goal. MVPs are rarely awarded to the person with the most assists, and championships are a huge factor in getting recognition as an MVP. There is really no way around it. A player needs to do what is needed to stay above the rest.

RC ATHLETE SOARS TO LONDON Many basketball players in the NBA dunk the ball quite frequently, but most do not use a trampoline.

Assistant Sports Editor In January, junior Daniel Thomas grabbed the opportunity to travel to London with the Detroit Pistons as a part of the Flight Crew entertainment team. Thomas, or “Elevata,” as referred to on the Flight Crew, said he had fun traveling on a charter plane through Delta Airlines with three seats to himself.

The Flight Crew saved some of its most dangerous stunts for the performance in London to make the event even more exciting. Thomas said he did not get much sleep on the trip, but it was worth it because he was able to spend his off time visiting attractions including the Big Ben clock tower.

“It’s just so different out there, the atmosphere, the buildings, the structure, and the people love us over there, knowing what we are, we work for the NBA and they just treated us like players,” Thomas said.

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SARA BEASON

He said the experience overseas made him want to live there in the future. He said being in a different place excited him, and he hopes to get the opportunity to do public relations in London one day.

Prior to the London trip, Thomas said his most exciting experience with the Flight Crew was when he and the other members performed in New York on “America’s Got Talent” and made it to the second round in the summer of 2012. The entertainment contract with the Pistons, however, did not allow them to continue on that summer.

Thomas had not always dreamed of being a part of stunt entertainment. In high school he participated in a dance competition. One of the Pistons cheerleaders, who was also a friend of his, asked if he and his friends could come dance for the Detroit Shock. Once involved with the team, Thomas and a few others discussed the idea of the Flight Crew.

Thomas said one of his greatest memories from the first season was a game between the Pistons and Boston Celtics. Right after the Flight Crew performed, the Pistons tied the game and won in overtime.

“I remember standing out there, cheering on the fans,” Thomas said. “It was an amazing time.”

They started off by performing at about 15 home games a season. In 2012, when Tom Gores bought the Pistons, the entertainment department decided to have the men per-

form at every home game.

In addition to performing, Thomas and the other members now help with summer basketball clinics and get a feel for sports management and media relations. He also had the opportunity of meeting and building friendships with some of the NBA players, including Chauncey Billups, who Thomas said was the nicest person he has ever met.

His interest in basketball continued to grow, so he decided to attend Rochester College for public relations and join the JV basketball team for the 2012-13 season.

“I expect more of the same from him but I do expect him to be able to raise his level of understanding of the game now that he has some playing experience underneath his belt,” JV basketball coach Adam Demorest said. “I think his Flight Crew experience has been vital in the way he interacts with his teammates; he is a very positive teammate and leader in the locker room, on the court and on campus. Dan brings excitement, a positive view and a great work ethic to all he does.”

Thomas hopes to remain in basketball for the rest of his career, whether working hard to play overseas or finding a job in the basketball industry.

During the rest of the college season, the starting forward will be taking time off from the Flight Crew in order to focus on practices with his new team but will resume at the Palace of Auburn Hills near the end of February.

Photo courtesy of www.pistons.com

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PAGES DESIGNED BY: KAYCE McCLURE

#

CUT, POST AND BE INSPIRED.

HISTORY OF THE ROCK Many schools across the country have a prominent campus statue or rock through which information Staff Writer is communicated to the staff and students. In 2008, this also became true for Rochester College when a large rock was placed outside of the café.

Assistant Professor Sara Barton thought RC could use a rock to serve as a focal point on campus, and that wish came true when a friend of hers, John Gresham, helped her find the perfect rock for the campus.

Oddly enough, Barton was surprised to find, “It’s actually expensive to buy a rock that large.”

Now under the care of Campus Ministry, the rock is often decorated with Bible verses or advertisements for different activities on campus, such as musicals or college athletics, As most have probably noticed, it is currently painted as a farewell to former Assistant Dean

LAURA CORP

of Students Terrill Hall.

“The purpose of the rock, similar to chapel, is to serve as a reminder that our community is broader than our circle of friends. We desire for it to be that thing on campus that creates community and everyone knows about,” said Chris Shields, campus minister.

What the rock might be best known for, however, is pledge week wars. Overnight, or even in a matter of hours, the rock may change from proclaiming the greatness of Sigma Phi Delta Nu to the boys of Theta Chi painting the rock pink as a tribute to a social club tradition at Harding University.

No matter what message or color the rock is painted with, the rock serves as “a place for campus announcements and student expression.”

Even though the rock has only been in place for a few years, it is now a staple that is part of the Rochester College campus experience.

Super Bowl Party Recap

NERF WARS When thinking about college, some of the things that come to mind are lecture halls, term papers and late night study Staff Writer sessions.

However, there is one important item missing from that list: Nerf guns! Those wonderful, foam shooting toys that we all swore we outgrew at age 10 are actually essential to a successful college career.

Whether you want to meet new friends, test your skills or just blow off some steam, “Nerf battles” can bring students together.

At Rochester College, an event called Nerf Wars was enjoyed in the past. Groups of students met in the Ham lobby and war erupted. Sadly, Nerf Wars saw its end in the fall of 2010.

As Resident Advisor Caleb Stinnett explained, “It took a long time to clean up.

People were finding darts in random places for weeks afterward.”

However, this was not the last time a Warrior picked up a Nerf blaster. Just this past semester, a small-scale version of Nerf Wars

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BRETT FARRIS

occurred through AG hall. Freshman took arms and the bullets started flying once again.

According to Tom Grappin, junior, a similar event known as Nerf Ninjas may be around the corner. This game requires participants to hunt down an assigned target and eliminate him or her through the use of a Nerf weapon.

However, the addition of a police force brings about the aspect of stealth, and any player caught “killing” another will be arrested.

“This game is played at a lot of college campuses and, in larger schools, can go on for months or even an entire semester,” Grappin said.

An official start date for Nerf Ninjas has yet to be set, which gives you plenty of time to go out and get yourself a blaster.

Whether you are tracking a target in Nerf Ninjas, participating in the next floor-againstfloor battle or just hanging out with friends, Nerf guns are great to have around. One might be surprised how many RC students keep at least one in their dorm room.

After all, nothing says, “I’m a college student” like toy guns and foam darts.

Photos by Jessica Chisholm

BALTIMORE

WINS!

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LE

E

TH For those looking for a workout that improves their coordination, offers challenging toning Activities Editor and cardio, and is wildly entertaining, Zumba Fitness

has much to offer.

Billed on its website as a “Latin-inspired, calorie-burning dance-fitness party,” Zumba routines feature both hip-hop and Latin music in an atmosphere that feels more like a party than a workout.

No dance experience is required to enjoy Zumba, and the variety of routines is different in each class. During a class, participants merely mirror the instructor’s moves and dance the hour away. The best part? Coordination is totally optional.

Lately, a number of students from Rochester have jumped into the Zumba craze.

“Zumba is an intense modern workout that combines the best of Latin dance with the worst of dancing in the mirror,” said Alex Ball.

No one minds if participants want to branch off of the offered routine and do their own thing.

Alternate options are also given to some of the more challenging moves, and dancers are invited to personalize the experience.

“Zumba is a one-of-a-kind dance experience that can make a white guy believe he has hips like Shakira,” said Joe Chadwick Pavone.

All that is needed to succeed in Zumba is a good attitude and plenty of water with which to hydrate. Never judgmental, each class becomes a bonding experience as the group strives towards their fitness goals.

“Zumba is an exhilarating experience that captivates both mind and body in a hip-swinging good time of dancing with friends,” said Jalen Stinnett.

Zumba’s atmosphere is so welcoming, in fact, that once before class a lady celebrating her friend’s birthday passed around a card for all dancers to sign.

“Zumba is like a family,” she said.

Offered at Lifetime Fitness, and also at Rochester College as a PE credit, there are many local opportunities for a newcomer to join in on this great workout trend.

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Natalie Redmond

Accusations, witchcraft, scandal and hysteria— these are just a few STAFF WRITER themes from Arthur Miller’s “The Crucible” that Rochester College will be putting on this spring.

Halley Anspach, who plays Rebekah’s nurse, said she is excited about playing a role out of her comfort zone. “I’ve played old women before but never a nice old lady,” she quipped.

“I’m really looking forward to everything coming together,” said Rachel Miller, who plays Sarah Goode, one of the first women accused. “All the pieces fall into place and all of our hard work pays off.”

Stage manager Christina Sornig also said that she is excited for the show’s performance. “Everyone collaborates,” she said, “and it’s awesome to have the audience experience all the emotions you had.”

Halley agrees. “My favorite part of theatre is the camaraderie,” she said.

“When all of us come together—I love it.”

Whatever the RC Theatre puts on, it is sure to be fantastic. Don’t miss The Crucible, which will be playing April 4th-7th and 11th-14th.

KATIE MARTELLE

WINTER RECAP

what winter looks like at rochester college