Rambler 2-25-09 by The Rambler

The Rambler e

The students’ voice since 1917

February 25, 2009

News Briefs Shake and Shape Lost touch with your new year’s resolution? ‘Shake It and Shape Up’ has the right solution. They are hosting a seminar at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 27 in the lobby of Stella Russell Hall teaching students how to make healthy shakes and how to stay fit with great exercises.

Taste of Venezuela Cantoria Alberto Grau, a Venezuelan women’s choir, will perform at 3 p.m. March 2 in Martin Hall. On tour from Caracas, they choir has performed at some of the world’s most prestigious music festivals and concert balls. There will also be an exchange rehearsal with the Wesleyan Chamber Singers at 11 a.m.

www.txwes.edu/rambler

Vol. 102, No. 6

A familiar neighbor subject to close

Polytechnic High School forced to shut down if academics don’t improve Tiara Nugent

EDITOR IN CHIEF

A treasured and historic landmark in the Polytechnic community may soon vanish – at least as we now know it – from the map and academic records. Polytechnic High School has been rated academically unacceptable for the past four years. Per the Texas Education Agency’s bylaws, any school so rated for five consecutive years must be either shut down or placed under the private sector. Should a school be subjected to closure, the campus may be re-opened only as a new school bearing a completely different name. “Poly High is important to the neighborhood, as it continues to carry more than a century of history and identity in its name,” said Quentin McGown, Fort Worth historian and Wesleyan alumnus. “Simply changing the name won’t fix the problem, especially one that has such a long, resonate history running through it. You run the risk of opening a school no one has a relationship or identity with.” This would leave Wesleyan without a familiar neighbor. “This would have a huge impact on our commu-

nity,” Rep. Marc Veasey told the Fort Worth StarTelegram. “There are businesses and churches and various edifices named after Poly. I don’t think it was ever our intent for the education commissioner to have that kind of impact to affect the history of a neighborhood.” The Poly community’s rich history dates back

sion-era Works Progress Administration project, opened in 1938, joining the then-elite east side demographic. The beautiful white-domed, red bricked building immediately met with the embrace and support of the neighborhood. Though the school’s most recent history offers little to brag about, community pride still runs

“The solution is to partner with the school to bring it up – not punish the neighborhood and history.”

See Poly, page 2

– Quentin McGown Fort Worth Historian

to the 1850s when the area was purely agricultural and not officially part of the growing “fort” city to the west. After an educational institution, then known as Polytechnic College, planted her roots there in 1890 on donated land, a community began to grow and thrive. The commune would eventually draw its name, Polytechnic Heights, from the college, which would inevitably become Texas Wesleyan. Polytechnic High School, a product of a Depres-

Photo by Tiara Nugent

Poly High School was built in 1938.

Homecoming ‘09 crowns a new court

Get your scuba on Wednesday night scuba classes are beginning for faculty and staff. Prices start at $40 per person for the employee and one other family member; prices for each additional family member are $100 and $200 to the public. Classes will run through April 7 and will offer open water and advanced certification.

Expanding Horizons For the 21st year, Texas Wesleyan will host Expanding Your Horizons in Science and Mathematics conference. Middle school girls are invited to participate from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 4 at the Sid W. Richardson center. Participants will take part in hands-on activities in workshops presented by professional women in the science or mathematics fields. Conference cost is $5 per person, and the registration deadline is March 12. Contact Dr. Jane Moore at (817) 5314882.

Rambler Contribution Please send all news briefs to twurambler@ yahoo.com. Submissions due by noon Friday to see brief in the following week’s issue.

Photos by Gasten Schoonover

The packed crowd at the Sid Richarson Gym witnesses homecoming festivities Feb. 21. Wesleyan crowned King Kevin Doskocil and Queen Destiny Clemons (right) before a 79-75 win over Southwestern Assemblies of God by the 10th ranked men’s basketball team.

Sowell, students gear up for 29th Wesleyan Heritage Tour

places where Christianity was first introduced to Scotland. First on the itinerary is Hadrian’s STAFF WRITER Wall. According to Britannica.com, the wall stretches 80 miles and was erected before the Spring Break 2009 will be the 29th year Dr. time of Christ’s existence to separate the Scots Jesse Sowell, professor of religion, has taken from Roman Britain until the third century. Wesleyan students to Great Britain, Ireland and The island of Iona, another place where Scotland, on an expenditure known as the WesChristianity was first introduced to the Scots, is leyan Heritage Tour. another influential site the tour will visit. Ac “The objectives are to expose students to a cording to nationmaster.com, all of Scotland’s different culture, a different part of the world,” kings were buried at Iona for hundreds of years he said, “and also to include in that a course because it was considered to be very sacred due which is enhanced by making use of being at to St. Columba; he built the first Christian setthe places overseas.” tlement in Scotland in 563. This year the tour, consisting of 26 students, “I remember going out there and just sitting is focused on the religious history of Scotland, Photo by Ryan Authier on a rock, and watching the waves of the Atand students will specifically get to see the exlantic Ocean beating up against the shore, and act places that are studied in the course. This year’s trip will focus on the religious history of just thinking about living and being God’s wonScotland. The group hopes to further their understanding “I'm really looking forward to seeing firstderful creation,” said Sowell. “Looking back to of what they learn in the classroom by experiencing the hand so many places and things that we've been landscape first hand. Caerlaverock castle (above) was one the main land, because it was in the afternoon, studying,” said senior religion major Elizabeth of the stops in the 2007 tour. I saw this beautiful rainbow just covering the Cumpton. “I'm hoping to take away some lifemainland. It was just an awesome experience; a long memories and also enrich my area of study beautiful site.” before I go to seminary.” According to Sowell, students can better maintain information if they Other places included on the itinerary are St. Andrews Cathedral – Scotland’s oldest university, Glasgow Cathedral – and Attenborough Castle, a bring together the information studied with an experience. “I discovered, just as I was completing my formal education, [that when] place connected to John Knox who brought the Protestant Reformation to I took an overseas trip and visited some of our Wesleyan Heritage sites in Scotland. England, when I came back from that I was able to remember some histori- Sowell admits that the excitement from the students when they see the cal facts that I did not remember after taking three courses in that particular historical monuments is what he really looks forward to before a trip. “That’s what I enjoy the most,” he said. subject,” said Sowell. During the tour students will get the rare opportunity to see historical

Rene’ Edwards

Opinions

What do you look for in a role model? Who in pop-culture fits that description? Page 3

Sports

Drug abuse has recently affected baseball’s reputation. Speculation continues on the future of the sport. Page 5.

February 25, 2009

You’re tapped!

News

Poly, from page 1

National college senior honor society selects new members

Mortar Board, the honor society that recognizes college seniors for excellence in the areas of scholarship, leadership and service, traditionally notifies its incoming class of selection by tapping them publicly. The ceremony dates back further than the birth of the national organization, beginning as long ago as 1892, when a Cornell University chapter was founded. New members used to be tapped in the middle of the night by members who dressed entirely in black, complete with hoods covering all but their eyes. They would surround the bed of a selected member and utter a Latin invitation in unison—followed by initiation rites. Tapping has drastically changed over the last century; today, tapping usually takes place in a more public scenario among the initiating member’s peers. Texas Wesleyan’s Quadrangle Chapter of Mortar Board tapped new members in their classrooms during what’s nationally recognized as Mortar Board Week.

The Rambler 2

Photo by Martin Garcia

Tapping new members is a time-honored tradition for Mortar Board. 2008-2009 Vice President Sarah Young (above, left) tapped Jennifer Rose (above, right) into the organization on Feb. 20 in front of her peers at the Academic Resource Center.

The students that were tapped were ultimately judged on the basis of their high achievement and dedication to the Wesleyan campus and community. The Quadrangle Chapter’s secretary, senior business management major Alex Musser, is excited at the prospect of seeing the new group in action. He said his own experiences and involvement in Mortar Board are rewarding. “It’s always nice interacting with students who are as equally committed and involved,” Musser said. “The current group has overcome a lot of barriers and has taken the initiative to accomplish a lot as an organization.” New members who have been recently tapped have thus far shown the same excitement that the outgoing class has had. Incoming member and junior elementary education major Ashly Spencer can relate. “This is something that I have been looking forward to since sophomore year,” Spencer said. “Things are certainly building up for another great year in Mortar Board.” -Martin Garcia

deep. Trustee Christene Moss, a representative of the Poly area, voiced her concern in dropping the Poly name to the Star-Telegram as well. Moss believes the name change would adversely affect students. “Even if it is a different name, it still is Poly High School,” she said. “You can get different teachers, counselors or principal, but you still have the same students. It [the name] means a lot to them.” In response to this problematic situation, Veasey, a former substitute teacher at the school, recently filed a bill intended to offer failing schools more time to raise academic performance and, in the case of temporary state closure, allow them to retain their names. Veasey’s legislation calls for two additional years of operation after a campus improvement plan is in place before any sanctions, including closure, can be applied. He claims schools need more time to show improvements after dramatic adjustments are implemented. Current changes at Poly include the replacement of most staff members as the district plugs in its strongest teachers in attempts to save the school. Texas Wesleyan faculty will likely not be a part of Poly’s academic revolution. The Wesleyan Collegiate Institute (WCI), a program which began in 1992 and allows high school students to earn college English credits through Wesleyan courses, may not exist much longer. DeeAnn Day, director of dual-enrollment programs (including the Wesleyan Collegiate Institute), and Linda Carroll, chair of the department of languages and literature, recently submitted a proposal to the provost to dismantle WCI. “The proposal was written to formalize the conclusion that several of us had already come to about the need to abandon a dwindling program,” said Day. “As rationale for this decision, over the last three years, I have,

indeed, observed a decline in student performance and a lack of interest in the program.” In regards to Poly students’ decreasing interest in WCI, Day believes students are choosing more convenient options for AP credit, such as the easier-accessed courses at Tarrant County College. Day began the 06-07 school year with 20 WCI students. Half of those students passed English 1301 during the fall and were enrolled in 1302, but only five of those successfully completed the remaining portion of the year. In 2007-2008, only three students enrolled in WCI courses, and only one student completed both semesters. Last fall Day again found herself teaching a mere three students, none of which returned for the spring 2009 semester. Should Polytechnic restructure, the new school may incorporate dual-enrollment courses from Wesleyan as “Early College Experience,” Day said. However, as no concrete plans for the future of Polytechnic High exist as of yet, the future relationship of Poly’s two historic Photo by Tiara Nugent educational campuses is just as uncertain as the future of the high school itself. There have also been relationships forged outside of academics. The ladies of Wesleyan’s Sigma Kappa Lambda sorority sponsored a prom queen/king for a day project for selected seniors at Poly the past two years. Sigma Kappa collected new and gently used formal wear and accessories for the recipients, as well as taking care of transportation and hair and make-up. “We sit and wait with them just like a big sister would, and it gives us an opportunity to get to know these girls,” Cindy Olivera, founder of the program, told The Rambler during last spring’s event. “We plan to do it every year.” Programs and relationships such as these will have to wait and see. “The solution is to partner with the school to bring it up – not punish the neighborhood and history,” agreed McGown.

Opinions

February 25, 2009

The Rambler 3

“Tres Coronas.” “Freebirds.”

“What’s your favorite off-campus lunch place?”

Jeremy Jackson Freshman Theater Major Nick Demetre Freshman Political Science Major

Role models ‘a matter of perspective’ dols, political leaders, professional athletes, celebrities and others with such enviable titles are marked by the public as role models and representatives of society. They are rewarded for their contributions and their exceptional talent. They are given wealth, recognition, status, power and other desirable notions that many wish to have themselves. Connor But in the acknowledgment of their abilities come certain limitations, rules and standards that Howell are used by the public to monitor and maintain an acceptable form of behavior among these role models. In the professional world the role models operate under names such as doctors, lawyers, psychiatrists and political leaders. With these titles come certain obligations to those who are affected by their decisions. A doctor is expected to provide the best available medical care. A defense attorney is expected to protect his client through the law and give that client the best defense possible. These professions are easily recognizable and easily definable among the public through the tasks they perform and the duties and responsibilities they have to those who need them. Usually accompanied with such a position is a detailed code of ethics to which these professionals are committed to observing and maintaining, yet there are stories of negligence, corruption and other actions that are unbefitting of people of such position and authority. When they are caught they suffer the legal consequences of their actions, but socially they become outcasts and pariahs, dismissed by their community. All these are longstanding and well known situations that have precedents for determining many of the legal and even social responses to unethical behavior. There are many other forms of role models that hold just as much influence in the social sphere. These people work as actors, singers, dancers, musicians, etc. They hold performances, create works of art and star in movies. Their day to day lives and activities serve to influence, and in some cases entertain, the lives of that public for

Melinda Pospichal Freshman Marketing Major

“Burger King.” “Spring Creek Barbeque.”

Connor Howell is a junior English major and is a contributing writer for The Rambler.

Web pages potential tool unable to be utilized Dear Editor,

Kent Halliburton Senior History Major

whom they perform. But they have specific standards to meet just as those who work under a profession. So what happens when they break the rules? Can a celebrity do something so socially backward and instead of receiving attention receive animosity? In many cases that is true. It almost seems as if there is an implied expectation in the relationship between celebrity and audience. Nowhere is it formally written down, rather simply understood that certain actions are not socially acceptable. If such behavior occurs then the ability to entertain no longer matters, and that celebrity is written off from public thought. For some celebrities, however, a little controversy in their private life helps create the powerful “comeback” image and bolster their popularity and their sales simultaneously. Yankee third baseman Alex Rodriguez and the controversy surrounding his use of steroids serve as a fresh example. Though Rodriguez is not currently suffering from any legal consequences (due to the nature of how the information of his steroid use was brought to light), his image, reputation and character are all thrown into question. Is he still as valuable a player as he was before the news came out? Does he still hold the same admiration and adoration of his fans? Probably not, but since some time has elapsed since the inception of the steroid controversy, perhaps he will fare better than some other well known professional athletes. In truth, it’s all a matter of perspective. Sure in many cases people can come together collectively in agreement and say of such role models and professionals that what they have done is wrong and deserves reprimand and punishment. But in other cases the answer is not so clearly defined. The implied social standard becomes harder and harder to define as the years go on and society continues to grow and become more complex. The responsibilities and expectations we have of our professional and popular role models maintain their quality, but we must bear in mind that they are still subject to the same faults and weaknesses the average person encounters everyday. Though their actions hold more weight and influence among many, they do deserve to be forgiven once in a while. Even if some of them do seem a little crazy.

In 1999 I came to Fort Worth and was appointed as a local pastor in a United Methodist Church. I was visiting a colleague that lived in the Poly area and encountered Texas Wesleyan University by accident. I inquired about the religion program at Wesleyan because I was obligated to continue my studies at a liberal arts school. I was excited about a school affiliated with the Methodist church because that meant more financial help. Five years later I came in to inquire about the program and was given a CD in lieu of a catalog. I was told that I could also find the information for my religion courses on the religion Web page. From time to time I would check the religion Web page and noticed that it was constantly under construction. Two years passed and the Web page was basically the same, with only the description of some courses, and the degree plan was pretty sketchy. I do not consider myself proficient on the computer or on the Internet, but along the years I have been able to surf the Web and found out that the easier the Web page is, the more interesting it is to me. In my personal experience, I think that the religion page, in TWU, is underdeveloped and incomplete. It is sad that an institution with many professionals available allows a situation like this to continue. If we compare TWU religion page with McMurry and Southwestern (other private Methodist- affiliated universities) we can

prove this case. I believe that any organization, institution or business can benefit tremendously by having an attractive, user friendly Web page. I mention these two simple characteristics because there are many Web pages that are anything but attractive and user friendly. To be fair, the TWU religion Web page does not have that problem, the Web-page is somewhat attractive and relatively easy to access. The main problem relies on the under development and lack of descriptions for courses. When I left Fort Worth in 2001, I never lost sight of returning to TWU because of its size and affordability. However, as I would constantly check on the program, I became more attracted to Southwestern University because of its extensive curriculum and the fairly detailed descriptions for their courses. Finally, there were other factors that enabled me to come to TWU, but my disappointment continued as I noted the religion Web page was the same. I was faced with the feeling that I had no say so in the decision-making process on the classes that I wanted to take or any access to information about the professor that I was interested in taking. It wasn’t until I went to my adviser and I was able to see in the computer some of the courses that I needed to take. However, I had no access or other options to evaluate the professors

The Rambler

Letter to the Editor

-Carlos Careaga Junior Religion Major

Rambler Ratings

Founded in 1917 as The Handout Harold G. Jeffcoat, Publisher Kelli Lamers, adviser Tiara Nugent,editor-in-chief Ryan Authier, entertainment editor Gasten Schoonover, photo editor

instructing the courses. My destiny was in my adviser’s hands rather than my own. It’s important for me to confess that I feel some sort of envy of other Web pages in the TWU curriculum. For instance, the English department has an extensive description of their courses, a list of their professors with pictures. On top of that, there is a list of personal information, interests, even the names of their dogs! It is hard to believe that it is easier for me to click on the Chili’s Web site and see their menu before I go than to go to the Web page of my school and see the information I need on the classes I’m interested in. As I understand it, Web pages can easily be modified. I’m not asking for a supervisor of Web pages, but a dean or a professor or even a student worker that has control over the management would be able to easily update the curriculum (I can even volunteer to type any information needed if access were to be granted). Two Sundays ago I was talking to a student that was interested in attending the nursing school and invited him to explore TWU and its curriculum. However, when I checked the program, to my dismay, I could not find enough information about the nursing program. I wonder if this lack of attention to the Web pages will continue to result in missed opportunities to reach out to potential students.

Martin Garcia, news editor Bryce Wilks, sports editor Ashely Oldham, advertising manager Rachel Horton, Web editor

Member of the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association. Opinions expressed in The Rambler are those of the individual author only and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Texas Wesleyan community as a whole. Letters to the editor: The Rambler, a weekly publication, welcomes all letters. All submissions must have a full printed name, phone number and signature; however, confidentiality will be granted if requested. While every consideration is made to publish letters, publication is limited by time and space. The editors reserve the right to edit all submissions for space, grammar, clarity and style. Letters to the editor may be subject to response from editors and students on the opinions page. “We are not afraid to follow the truth...wherever it may lead.” -Thomas Jefferson Address all correspondence to: Texas Wesleyan University, The Rambler, 1201 Wesleyan St., Fort Worth, TX 76105. Newsroom: 531-7552 Advertising: 531-7582 E-mail: twurambler@yahoo.com

Thumbs up to the trimmed trees outside the business building.

Thumbs down to hot water being out in Stella.

Thumbs down to the inconsistency of items and quality at Dora’s.

Thumbs up to Security Officer Price for his hospitality and helpfulness.

College Life

4 The Rambler

More than a search engine Seth Nelson STAFF WRITER

Did you think all you could get out of Google is a search engine? Though the word has become a verb as well as a noun, “Google” is so much more. With Google, you can have an entire world of resources right at your fingertips. Whether on your computer or on your cell phone, Google has an app waiting. It’s an image finder, a world map, a phonebook, a video player and on and on. Here’s a look at some of the lesser-known Google features, as well as some of the favorites.

Google and more Google

iGoogle: If you prefer to have the main Google page – much like Yahoo’s (with the news stories and such) – you can get this alternate main page instead. The default version can be used with or without an account. However, signing up for a free Google account will allow you to add more free extras and even change the background to any pre-loaded design you want (ala Myspace)! Scholar: Similar in nature to the library’s search engine, Google Scholar lets you input a topic of interest (say, for a term paper), and Google will give you the results such as book excerpts and PDF files instantly. This service has it’s drawbacks, however, because some Web sites make you sign up with them for the full version … or Google Books does not give you the entire publication, speaking of which… Books: Forget Amazon.com for book browsing. GoogleBooks allows you to insert a title, author or subject of interest into the search box or click on some featured titles. Read reviews, peek into pages, find nearby locations, even search for it at your local library. You can even read old magazines. It doesn’t exactly replace the library or the bookstore because many books (except for some public domain titles) are just previews of what to expect when you read the “paper and glue” version. This curse can be seen as a blessing, however, because on the right column, the site

shows a price comparison for online ordering (e.g. Thomas Sowell’s Basic Economics is $31.96 at Barnes and Noble vs. $39.95 at Borders). Google Talk: Similar to the instant messaging services through AOL, Yahoo and MSN, Google Talk is a free IM service that works with a simple download to your computer or by logging on at www.google.com/talk. This service is also integrated into the Gmail system (see below). Translate: You can translate text and even Web pages from one language to another using Google Translate. More than 40 languages are available. GOOG-411: Search for listings without ever logging on. Dial 1-800-GOOG-411 (1-800-466-4411) from any phone (cell, pay or landline), then tell the computer the city, state and location! Choose your desired listing, and GOOG411 automatically connects you to the business. A free 411, indeed.

Blogger: Yes, Google owns Blogger, the Web site for creating blogs. There are several topics available, so search this site, or use your Google account (once again, free) to start your own blog. Documents: Did you know you could store all your files online? By providing online file storage, Google Docs could replace your flash drive (you know, that little thing that is so easy to lose?). Also, this app enables you to create documents, spreadsheets or presentations from scratch or from templates. Perhaps the best feature Google Docs boasts is to share and collaborate on documents in real time. Got a group project that needs revision due in the morning? No problem. Each group member can log on, view and edit the document simultaneously. The chat feature will keep you in good communication during the process. Finance: This Google app offers a broad range of up-to-date information about stocks, mutual funds, public and private companies. Additionally, the organized homepage design lets users see currency information, sector performance for the U.S. market and a listing of top market movers along with the relevant and important news of the day. Downloadable fun Toolbar/Deskbar/Desktop: All free. For the toolbar, you can download it to your computer and, in seconds, you can begin Googling topics of interests without ever typing in www.google.com every time. Options allow you to block pop-up ads and instantly fill out online forms with just one click. The deskbar lets you search without your browser open, almost like searching for a file on your hard drive. The desktop works not only on Windows Vista but also on Windows XP. Users can have Google search, news, weather and time all on your desktop. This is similar to the dashboard functions on Windows Vista and Max OS X (latest versions).

February 25, 2009

Google offers bountiful supply of free resources

Earth: Use Google Maps without using a browser by downloading Google Earth free from the Google Web site. Explore mountain terrain, dive into the world’s oceans, even pinpoint and chat with other Google users on world landmarks and more. Also, look for directions and listings like on the Google Maps site (see below). Picasa: A free photo program. You can edit your photos, create slideshows, even upload them online for everybody to see. Pack: An automatic download manager that integrates all the free, full applications from both Google (such as Earth) and other companies (such as Real and Adobe).

Tried and true

Image search: Search for a particular photo or graphic of your interest. Need a picture of the U.S. flag in a split second? Just visit images.google.com (or click at the top of

the main page) and do a search for “American flag.” You can change sizes, select file type, even see a blown-up version in a page separate from the searched Web site, ready to save. Maps: Who needs a globe or an outdated road atlas anymore? Google can take care of the geographic goodness for you. This is effective whether you are planning a road trip in printable form, wanting to see what your destination will look like (using Street View) or using your phone to find the nearest restaurant. News: Search any topic, whether it’s a general term (such as “computers”) or a famous name (such as Barack Obama), and Google will search everything from credible, reliable sources (such as BBC News) to obscure, small-town newspapers. You can also purchase historic archives from famous newspapers through this service. Shopping: Formerly known as “Froogle” (Frugal), this search lets you choose from a list of recent searches, or you can insert your desired product into the box. From there you can compare prices from several online retailers. For example, typing in “Blu-ray Disc Player” and searching for the lowest price on a new, unopened product from a brandname retailer, I found one for $179.99 at Office Depot. Gmail: Google’s approach to el cheapo e-mail. With seven gigabytes of storage (and growing), a reliable, accurate spam blocker and access on both a computer and your cell phone, Gmail is the one e-mail service you need to get! There are always new and innovative features coming out, so sign up and stay tuned. YouTube: THE ultimate Web site for video sharing and viewing. Upload, view and comment on favorite videos. There are videos from individual users to news stories and clips from TV networks, videos from record labels, news and events from well-known institutions and endless other options. You can find YouTube on your computer, or you can download the widget on your cell phone (such as the iPhone). (There is also Google Video, which was released prior to Google’s acquisition of YouTube; both Googlehosted and You Tube-hosted videos can be found through this service). There are other programs and helpful features available. Log on to www.google.com and see for yourself. The features are constantly updated. Try the Google Labs or AdSense pages. It’s a world gone google.

Photo by Gasten Schoonover

We bleed blue and gold Following a spirited tailgate bash, numerous Greek societies -- including the ladies of Alpha Xi Delta -turned out to cheer Wesleyan’s homecoming double header Feb. 21.

Sports

February 25, 2009

Quick Quote

“Fans are the only ones who really care. There are no free-agent fans.” - Dick Young American sportswriter

Upcoming Events Feb. 26

*3 p.m. Softball vs. Hillsdale Free Will Baptist College Feb. 28 Noon Baseball @ UTBrownsville 1 p.m. Softball @ Texas College 2 p.m. Baseball @ UTBrownsville 2 p.m. Women’s Basketball @ Texas College 4 p.m. Men’s Basketball @ Texas College March 1 11 a.m. Baseball @ UTBrownsville March 2 2 p.m. Baseball @ HoustonVictoria *5:30 p.m. Women’s Basketball vs. University of the Southwest *7:30 p.m. Men’s Basketball vs. University of the Southwest

Sports Briefs Lady Rams fall to tough SAGU squad Feb. 21 The Lions of SAGU handed the women’s basketball team a 51-41 loss on homecoming night. Guard Ashley Bringol cashed in with 12 points and four assists. Coach sets softball win record Feb. 21 With a 13-5 win over Kansas Wesleyan at the Cowtown Classic, softball head coach Shannon Gower took sole possession of the school record with 103 career victories. Gower is in her fifth season as head coach. Softball strong at tournament Feb. 20 The softball team went 2-1 on the opening day of the Cowtown Classic. The Rams topped Northwestern Oklahoma State University 5-4 and Kansas Wesleyan University 6-5 before falling 7-2 to the University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma. Rams beat Wiley Feb. 19 The men’s basketball team took a 74-70 win over Wiley College to run their win streak to 12 games and tie for the fourth longest streak in school history. Guard Terrell Henry led the Rams with 18 points. Lady Rams fall in final seconds Feb. 19 The women’s basketball team lost to Wiley 65-63 in the final seconds. Senior Kim Gatlin contributed 13 points and six rebounds, while Senior forward Sheleatha Simmons added 10 points.

Log on to: www.ramsports.net for the latest game information and profiles of your favorite Wesleyan teams and athletes

The Rambler 5

Enough already...

As steroid scandals mount and shame surrounds the game, who wants baseball around anyway?

rofessional baseball … what other sport can the old and fat alike compete on a national and professional level? What other televised sporting event takes three to six hours to complete and provides Chuck only 15 minutes of Fain actual game time? What other sport can say that their Nielson ratings have steadily plummeted over the last several years and that their playoff ratings are outright embarrassing? That’s right, only baseball. This sport has been pushing its luck for a long time now, and, in light of recent events, I say it’s time to cut the cord. The baseball world, as well as the rest of us, discovered this past week that major league star Alex Rodriguez used steroids during his time with the Texas Rangers. Sports Illustrated reported the story, outing A-Rod from a coveted list of 103 other major league players, the story confirmed by Rodriguez himself in an interview conducted by ESPN. According to ESPN. com and A-Rod, he has not used since 2004 when he was traded to the Yankees. That may be so, but honestly, I don’t care. Not that I ever really did care, but I feel like I should strike while the iron is hot. A-Rod should be the last straw. On top of all the aforementioned flaws, baseball has now developed a new problem in its ramped drug abuse. Most all of baseball’s brightest stars are indicted for and/or under suspicion of steroid use, such as Mark McGwire, Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens, Sammy Sosa, Rafael Palmeiro (the list goes on), and now this list surfaces of 104 major league players who tested positive for steroids conforming the baseball community’s worst fears. So what now? Aren’t all the records set in this era questionable and/or tainted? Should we strip the known steroid users of their records, trophies and honors? Should we just abandon baseball as we know it all together? Yes, yes and yes. The way I see it, we have two options here to deal with baseball: either kill it or totally revamp it. If we kill it, we can use the remainder of major league players’ salaries to fix our economy, turn baseball stadiums into massive hospitals (or landfills), and put the grotesquely deformed, juiced-up players to work in a traveling freak show where they’ll tear

apart phone books and chew up two-byfours while we stare in amazement at their freakishly enlarged heads. Or, we keep baseball, but require everyone who plays to use steroids. That way, the playing field will be level and we, the baseball watching public, get to see truly awesome and astounding displays from these ‘roided up supermen. I really don’t see any other option if we are to keep the game of baseball alive. The way it is set up now is simply not fair. It’s like playing paintball wars but one guy on the other team is using a real gun. While we’re making changes, let’s also cut the innings in half, have another ball that’s in play fly through periodically like a Harry Potter Quidditch match, and the outfielders should have choreographed dance moves they do between pitches. Obviously, America isn’t going to get rid of baseball. If America has put up with its crap so far, then it will continue to do so now. And while I don’t think my wish of a baseball-free America will ever happen, I can’t see how it can go on unabated. The records from this era all have a dark shadow cast over them … or at the very least, asterisks. Many of today’s records are set by cheaters, robbing those who have truly earned their honor. If the game itself doesn’t change, then most certainly our attitudes towards it, and its validity, will. The next generation will think of baseball as “the steroid game,” because all their lives the two have

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been intermixed. Baseball’s popularity and integrity are quickly deteriorating. According to baseball-almanac.com, the Neilson ratings for last year’s World Series was an 8.4 share, down from 16.3 share in 1999. Bleacherreporter.com reports that NASCAR ratings double that of baseball’s. Scandals about drug abuse continue to surface in the game, leading others to believe that everyone involved is a user, and adding to its diminished status. Baseball may not be long for this world, my friends, and I suggest you get your mourning in now before it’s too late. If current trends continue, we may experience the death of the great game in our lifetime. This is your second strike, Baseball. You’d better keep your eye on the ball…

Chuck Fain is a senior writing major and is a staff writer for The Rambler.

Don’t just watch and read the sports media. BE the sports media. Write. Take pictures. Rambler sports.

Photo by Jose Valdez

Rams forward Hector Mukweyi (above) was introduced at the homecoming game against SAGU and racked up 9 points, 13 rebounds and three blocks against the Lions.

Homecoming heroics

Rams overcome late deficit to notch victory In front of one of the best crowds that Wesleyan has seen in recent memory, the No. 10 ranked men’s basketball team pulled off a stunning comeback to take a 79-75 win over Southwestern Assemblies of God University Feb. 21. After trailing for most of the game, the Rams found themselves down by eleven points (70-59) with just over five minutes remaining. Over the next two-and-a-half minutes, the defense forced three missed shots and three turnovers while outscoring the Lions 13-1 to take a 72-71 lead. SAGU missed a desperation three point attempt with just a few seconds remaining, and Hector Mukweyi was fouled and hit one-of-two free throws to ice the game. “I thought we played great at the end,” commented head coach Terry Waldrop. “Our kids turned up the pressure and made plays to win like they have all year long. SAGU has a good team that really made us earn it at the end.” Terrell Henry led all scorers with 25 points for Wesleyan. Chris Berry added 19, including 12 in the second half, and Kennith Gober finished with 16. Mukweyi just missed a double-double with 9 points and 13 rebounds. With 23 regular season wins, the team now has the most victories in a regular season since the 1986-87 team. Their last home game will be March 2 when they host University of the Southwest. - Ramsports.net

Entertainment

February 25, 2009

Theatre Wesleyan offers insightful exploration of man in Terra Nova “I

n the winter of 1911-1912, five Englishmen and five Norwegians raced each other to the bottom of the Earth. Only the Norwegians returned. This is the story of the Englishmen.” This concise synopsis of Terra Nova by Ted Tally, which appears in the play’s program, neatly sums up the plot of the play. What it fails to do, however, is mention the vast array of human emotion and idealism present in this production. Terra Nova, beautifully directed by Theater Professor Jeanne Everton, peels back the skin of civilized society, exposing a raw nerve of human emotion. Chuck The play was written from real life journals found on the bodies Fain of the crew of the English Terra Nova expedition in 1911. Capt. Robert Scott, skillfully played by senior theater major Dillon Maroney, heads up the expedition, and the story, as we follow Scott and his crew through the frozen and harsh terrain of Antarctica. Through well-crafted flashbacks and peaks into Scott’s mind, we learn of Scott’s expedition, his estranged wife and child back home and his rivalry with the Norwegian, Amundsen. It is a role that senior theater major Chase Burnett executes with haunting resonance. We also learn what motivates Scott to take on not only such a hellish terrain, but to do it with just him and his men pulling the sled. Things begin badly for the English expedition, as one crew member, Edward Evans – senior theatre major Max Marquez – has suffered a deep gash in his hand, which he has hidden from the rest of the crew until it becomes too painful and frostbitten to conceal. Evans’ injury slows the expedition and begins a downward spiral that leads to his eventual death. The rest of the crew’s health begins to deteriorate, both physically and mentally, resulting in their eventual tragic end. Marquez’s portrayal of Evans’ stammering, shuffling deterioration and consequential descent into madness is riveting, portraying a horrific death that delves into a frightening distortion of humanity. Senior theater major Ben Phillips brings the goods as always, playing the stubborn and grizzled Capt. Oates, the often harsh voice of reason. Senior theatre majors Chris Hatcher and Autsin Rose play the high-spirited Henry “Birdie” Bowers and the empathetic Dr. Edward Courtesy of Theatre Wesleyan Wilson, respectively. Both put on an excellent Senior theater majors Whitney Park and performance; Hatcher’s Bowers is sharply Dillon Maroney star in Theatre Wesleyan’s played as the energetic glue holding the crew together, and Rose’s heartfelt Wilson is the crew’s spring production of Terra Nova. sympathetic, caring soul. Senior theatre major Whitney Park as the incisive, independent Kathleen Scott, Dr. Scott’s wife, delivers a sincere and somber performance, effectively portraying the estranged, soon-to-be-widow with stunning emotional intensity. Maroney’s Dr. Scott beckons the audience’s sympathy (and fervently receives it) through the love of his crew, his determination and his staunchly ethical principles. Even though his and his crew’s ultimate demise is a direct result of all the aforementioned qualities, Maroney has you pulling for Capt. Scott all the way across the frozen tundra. Flowing and frosty, the well-crafted set whisks the audience away to the frigid and barren Antarctic. Cleverly placed drop cloths serve as rolling hills of snow, are formed into a tent and are used as a projection screen showing authentic pictures of the actual expedition, which adds to the play’s overall eerie demeanor. Chilly blue and white lights, as well as whipping wind noises, helps transport the audience to the frozen wasteland, while the excellent makeup effects and carefully crafted costumes create a startlingly authentic Arctic experience. Terra Nova is a gripping and tragic play displaying a wide range of human emotion. Pride, sportsmanship, hubris, optimism, love, disappointment, patriotism, self-doubt, fear and defeat all parade on and off the stage, sometimes all crowding in together. It provides a whirlwind of emotions, which can be a bit stifling at times, but leaves one feeling all the more richer for the profound experience. So put on that parka, secure that scarf, and break out that windbreaker, it’s time to venture into the frosty depths of human emotion that is Terra Nova. Performances will be at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 26-28 and at 2 p.m. March 1. Tickets are $8 for general admission, $6 for Wesleyan staff and $4 for all students with ID and seniors 65 and up. The Thad Smotherman Theatre is located in the Law Sone Fine Arts building at 1205 Binkley St. The box office is open Tuesday through Friday from 1:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. and one hour before curtain on show days. For reservations, call the box office at (817) 531-4211 or visit the Theatre Wesleyan Web site on the Wesleyan home page. Chuck Fain is a senior writing major and is a staff writer for The Rambler.

Look Ahead

Wednesday

On Campus:

Friday

OnCampus:

• Baptist Student Ministries: Carter Conference Room, noon. Free lunch served

• Methodist Student Movement: Poly UMC, 12:15 p.m. Free lunch served.

•Terra Nova: Thad Smotherman Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

Off Campus:

•Terra Nova: Thad Smotherman Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

Weekly Movie Releases: Street Fighter: The Legend of Chun-Li

• Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater: Bass Hall, 7:30 p.m.

To submit an event for the calendar, e-mail twurambler@yahoo.com.

Saturday

Thursday

Sunday

On Campus:

•Terra Nova: Thad Smotherman Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

•Terra Nova: Thad Smotherman Theatre, 2 p.m.

•California Guitar Trio: Granada Theater, 8 p.m.

Off Campus: • Delta Spirit: House of Blues Dallas, 7 p.m.

•Jeremy Smith (Senior Recital): Martin Hall, 7:30 p.m.

Monday

On Campus:

Tuesday

On Campus:

•Cantoria Alberto Grau, a Venezuelan choir: Martin Hall, 3 p.m.

• Chapel: Poly UMC, 12:15 p.m. Free lunch served.

Off Campus:

Weekly DVD Releases: Australia; Stiletto; Beverly Hills Chihuahua

•Judy Collins: Bass Hall, 7:30 p.m.

The Rambler 6

Peace. Love. Pizza. Happiness is found at mellow mushroom

izza: a staple of the collegiate diet; a necessity for the student’s stomach. The station wagon of foods, pizza is both versatile and inexpensive, and Fort Worth’s finest is to be found at Mellow Ryan Mushroom. Authier A chain restaurant founded in 1974, Mellow Mushroom has not lost its hippie vibe. Like my dad and his winkle-pickers, the Mushroom found a look that worked 35 years ago and stuck with it. The walls are decked with paintings and décor that could easily substitute for a Pink Floyd album cover, and the outside even features a tie-dye cow with peace signs and flowers. Turbo groovy. The essence of the 1970s extends past the adornment and is encompassed by the easy going, friendly wait staff. Dressed in throwback garb that could have been purchased from a Woodstock T-shirt rack, the amiable and surprisingly informative college-aged cadre will serve your every whim. Oh, and did I mention they serve pizza? Mellow Mushroom serves up the best slices of pie (substitute heaven) in the city of Fort Worth. My most recent visit included the House Special, a pie featuring everything under the sun including pepperoni, sausage, ground beef, onions,

green peppers, mushrooms, black olives, tomatoes, ham, bacon and extra cheese. Drooling? You should be. The menu features other favorites such as the Philosopher’s Pie (with steak and mushroom), the Mega-Veggie and the Mighty-Meaty. These favorites, plus about 12 other pre-planned pies, all ranging from about $11 for a small to $24 for a large, are a great way to be introduced to the Mellow Mushroom. However, if you’re feeling daring, you can build your own pizza featuring any combination of more than 60 ingredients, all organic and incredibly fresh. The meats are tender, the veggies crisp, the bread is soft and all fixings are natural. The Mushroom does serve up much more than pizza, featuring calzones, hoagies, a plethora of salads and some amazing cheesy garlic bread. For the 21 and over crowd, happy hour is every hour at the Mellow Mushroom. $2 domestics, $3 wells and margaritas, and a wide range of mixed drink possibilities make up the bar, which proudly boasts more than 50 flavors of beer. Mellow Mushroom is located at 3455 Bluebonnet Circle and is open 11 a.m.9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Check them out on the Web at www. mellowmushroom.com.

Ryan Authier is a senior psychology major and is entertainment editor for The Rambler.