Rambler 4-29-09 by The Rambler

The Rambler e

The students’ voice since 1917

April 29, 2009

www.txwes.edu/rambler

Vol. 102, No. 12

Arts and Sciences school to split in fall

News Briefs

René Edwards

SMS and Purple Cow Texas Wesleyan Sports Medicine Society encourages the Wesleyan community on to attend The Purple Cow Diner (in Fort Worth off of Interstate 30) from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on May 5. Fifteen percent of each check is given back to the Sports Medicine Society when the server is informed that they are the ones being supported. All guests mentioning their support are eligible to make the donation--not just Wesleyan members.

Swine Flu In response to the recent cases involving the swine influenza, Texas Wesleyan has begun reviewing the institution’s preparedness plan and will keep its students, faculty and staff informed of any necessary action. Cases of the disease have been reported in Guadalupe County, Texas, as well as in California, Kansas, New York and Ohio. Probable cases have also been reported in Dallas County and in Fort Worth. There is no vaccine for the new virus; Tarrant County Public Health urges everyone to take precaution and preventive measures.

Ribbon Cutting A ribbon cutting ceremony and lunch for Wesleyan’s new bookstore will be held at noon on May 7. A complementary barbecue lunch will be served to attendees at the Baker Building. Door prizes will be handed out to those who arrive on time to register.

Diversity Seminar Courage and Renewal North Texas will host “Diversity: Valuing Ourselves and Others,” from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on May 1 in the Louella Baker Martin Pavilion. The cost is $125. Call (817) 882-8222 for details.

Rambler Farewell Congratulations to the graduating seniors! The Rambler wishes everyone a safe summer break. We’ll see you in the fall.

STAFF WRITER

Not your average Joe

Fort Worth Mayor Mike Moncrief stops to have his morning coffee at The Coffee Spot on April 24. Donna Griffin (left) and Veronica Ricard, co-owners, also held a special ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Spot that morning.

The School of Arts and Sciences will split into two schools – the School of Arts and Letters and the School of Sciences – in an attempt to organize and downsize the vast school where it currently stands. The new changes will go into effect for fall 2009. A search for new deans resulted in the selection of Dr. Steven Daniell to head Arts and Letters and Dr. Trevor Morris to head Sciences, according to arts and sciences personnel. Dr. Marcel Kerr is currently serving as the interim dean of arts and sciences. “The size of the new schools are more in line with the other current schools and will allow for better management of the programs,” said Provost Allen Henderson. “This will allow the new deans more time for advocacy and leadership for the faculty and the students.” The current departmental structures,

See A&S, page 2

The world at her fingertips

Influential alumna impacts community locally and nationally Eunice Nicholson STAFF WRITER

“My dad didn’t like to see male boys just hanging out in the streets,” she said. “So he [formed a team] and became a baseball coach.” Witnessing the advocacy of her parents instilled in Brookins a desire to help others. In 1986 Brookins attended Abilene Christian University and studied for four years. She also

was mine,” Brookins said. “If I could come back to school after a nine-year absence and have a family and work—there was nothing I couldn’t do.” At Wesleyan, Brookins studied business, psychology and fine arts. “I had always wanted to own my own business,’ she said. “Since my father had played professional baseball, he wished he could have opened his own sporting goods store. In class, I put a business plan together to take to the bank. I got to spend a lot of time with him.” In 2001, Brookins earned a bachelor of science in multi-disciplinary studies from Wesleyan.

Daphne Brookins believes in many things. She believes in God, her family, the youth of Tarrant County and she believes in Texas Wesleyan University. Her resume shows it. She’s currently the president of the Texas Wesleyan alumni association. She’s running for mayor of the city of Forest Hill. She just completed her third Tarrant County Youth Summit. She was just re-appointed to the Texas Governor’s Commission on People with Disabilities. And she’s receiving the Fort Worth mayor’s award for much of her work later this month. Good works While her beliefs have inspired Now, Brookins was ready to her to accomplish many things, it harness her new-found confidence and was her parents’ example and her business skills and put them to work. time at Wesleyan that laid the foun But an interest in politics had dation for her success. also been born at Wesleyan. Brookins Looking back to when Brookins said she was inspired by her political and her family lived in Aransas Courtesy of the alumni office science professor, Dr. Ibrahim Salih. Pass, Texas, she remembered how Brookins (left) poses with Wesleyan President Hal Jeffcoat, faculty and honor- “I asked Dr. Salih how I might good her mother and father were to ees at the 2007 alumni medal dinner. Brookins concluded her term as alumni get involved [in politics],” Brookins the kids in their neighborhood. president April 25, but she looks to continue her civic services by running for said. “He told me the first thing I “My mom cooked for everymayor of Forest Hill. needed to do was to get involved in the one,” she said. “My house was the worked as a certified nurse assistant. In 1999, community,” house all the kids would come to.” she was ready to return to the classroom, and So she did. At that time Brookins and her Brookins’ father, who played professional Brookins chose Wesleyan. She said the professors family were living in Forest Hill, a small suburb baseball for the Houston Astros from 1966 to at Wesleyan impressed her. of Fort Worth. After graduation, Brookins went 1973, put his skills to work in the neighborhood “My professors reminded me that the world See Brookins, page 2 as well.

Autism Speaks ... through Alpha Xi Delta

ernment and the public. This year Autism Speaks went global, hitting numerous countries such NEWS EDITOR as Brazil, Canada and Mexico, organizing walks to promote awareness. Ac Millions of people suffer from it. Citizens across the globe live with the cording to those involved, it is events like these that enable the community to prevalent condition that has been deemed a growing health crisis by the Unitengage with one another in casual intercourse while ed Nations: autism. tremendously helping out the community at the same This month, campus sorority Alpha Xi Delta antime. “The sorority hopes to have speakers nounced its new partnership with Autism Speaks, the “We are really excited about [helping] this organizacome to the main campus and speak nation’s largest autism advocacy organization. tion and about putting out knowledge about this con “Alpha Xi Delta has a long history of supporting about autism in hopes of eventually troversial issue,” said Andrews. child-focused issues,” said sorority president Joette getting volunteers to work at different Currently, one in 150 individuals is diagnosed with Andrews, a junior at Texas Wesleyan. “Our support schools in the area and get the word out autism, making it more common than pediatric canof Autism Speaks is a natural partnership of Alpha Xi about autism.” cer, diabetes and AIDS combined, according to the Delta.” – Joette Andrews official Web site for Autism Speaks. Autism Speaks defines autism as a “complex neuPresident of Alpha Xi Delta It has become so widespread that in 2007, the United robiological disorder that typically lasts throughout a Nations General Assembly formally adopted a resoperson’s lifetime. Autism impairs a person's ability to lution declaring April 2 as World Autism Awareness communicate and relate to others.” Day, one of only three specifically disease-related days. The organization was founded in February 2005 by Bob Wright and The day attempts to bring together organizations to celebrate the skilled his wife, Suzanne, after their grandson was diagnosed with autism. Autism persons with autism. By sanctioning a certain day on the calendar, individuSpeaks is a non-profit advocacy organization dedicated to promoting research als with the condition can begin to feel more welcome in their immediate and and awareness about autism. Their outreach activities are aimed at the gov-

Martin Garcia

See Autism, page 2

Sports

Campus kickboxing class has students gearing up for selfdefense. Score some Nguyening moves. Page 5

Entertainment

Steve Simons’ career at Wesleyan, spanning more than 40 years, comes to an end. Page 6

News

April 29, 2009

Brookins, from page 1

The Rambler 2

Brookins, from page 1

neighboring communities, advocates said. A major focus of World Autism Awareness Day is bringing the issue closer to home. Experts say early diagnosis and intervention are an important part to the growing epidemic, and organizations like Alpha Xi Delta are making it known close to home. Andrews said the sorority hopes to have speakers come to the main campus and speak about autism in hopes of eventually getting volunteers to work at different schools in the area and get the word out about autism. Through a recent bake sale held on campus, the sorority initiated a charitable movement that members hope will become a standing tradition to benefit fight against the disease. Alpha Xi Delta was founded in 1893, and it is one of the oldest women’s sororities in the United States. Alpha Xi Delta has been on the Texas Wesleyan campus since 1975. According to members, their hopes and visions are to inspire women to reach their full potential, civically and vocationally. This is achieved through leadership roles and philanthropic and social events. For more information about autism and Autism Speaks visit http://www.autismspeaks. org/. Alpha Xi Delta is excited to partner up with Autism Speaks in hopes of inspiring people to get the word out on the disease that affects so many citizens. The odds show it is time that makes a difference, and organizations like Alpha Xi Delta are doing their part on campus. They hope to continue their recent endeavor next year. Courtesy of Alpha Xi Delta

Bragan lines up West Library walls

Photos by Martin Garcia

Bobby Bragan, former major league ballplayer, manager and Texas Wesleyan University benefactor, now has parts of his donated collection on display on the second floor of the West Library. Above the Cokesbury Literature section and the study abroad resources hang several jerseys from the collection, including one from Bragan’s days with the Spokane Indians, a Los Angeles Dodgers triple A affiliate team, and another from his tenure with the Almendares Scorpions from Havana, Cuba (bottom, right). Bragan managed the Scorpions’ winter league team for five years, getting to see many major and minor league players refine their skills in the offseason. Bragan won two championships there.

Write for The Rambler www. twurambler. edu

less advocate for Texas Wesleyan University,” said Phillips. “I look forward to her continued impact in the Texas Wesleyan, Polytechnic Heights and greater Fort Worth communities.” But the list does not end here. Brookins is also a case manager at the Presbyterian Night Shelter, the largest homeless shelter in Fort Worth. And at the end of the day, she finds time to be with her husband Carl and two sons, Dylan, 17, and Jordan, 12.

down to Forest Hill City Hall and filled out a committee application. “That opened the door,” she said. Brookins became the youngest city councilwoman the city had ever had. She served two terms and filled the post of mayor pro tem. Now, Brookins is running for mayor. “I am running because I feel the city is not being heard, and I would like to step up to the plate and be that voice,” she said. “That voice for economic development, Good things happen to good people senior citizens and the youth.” On April 30, Brookins will be honored Meanwhile, she never abandoned her with Fort Worth Mayor Mike Moncrief’s passion for helping the youth of Tarrant “Believing in Youth Award.” This annual County. award is sponsored by Santa Fe Youth Three years ago Brookins founded the Services, a non-profit agency that provides Tarrant County Youth Summit. She saw a drug and alcohol intervention and counneed to help the youth in the community seling to adolescences and their families. prepare for their future. Brookins was selected for this award On April 18, Brookins hosted the third because of her dedication to the youth of youth summit, sponsored this year by Tarrant County. Texas Wesleyan and Jobing.com. Held this Moncrief said he and the people of Fort year at Sid Richardson Center on camWorth are grateful for the work Brookins’ pus, the event is a job and education fair has done. designed to prepare young people between “The people of Fort Worth are proud the ages of 15 and 22 for employment sucand grateful to those in our community like cess. Daphne Brookins who dedicate their valu “Our youth need to be prepared and able time to the growth and development of polished,” Brookins said. our young people,” Moncrief said. “There Such summits include break-out sesis nothing more important than supporting sions to help people with their resumes these young people—our greatest natural and teach them about how to dress and asset.” how to interview for a job, she said. Brookins has also recently been nomiThe summit consisted of local employers, nated for the Eleanor Roosevelt Award, colleges and social services and presented a national award that was established in a different scenario this year because of the 1998 by President Bill Clinton. It honors economy. outstanding American promoters of human “We know that our youth are now comrights in the United States, according to peting with professionals who are jobless,” wikipedia.com. Brookins said. While her parents are no longer living, Brookins is also concerned with helpthe wisdom of their example is always in ing those with disabilities. She has been her heart. So is the confidence and knowlre-appointed by Gov. Rick Perry to serve a edge she gained while a student at Wessecond two-year term as a committee memleyan. ber of the Texas Governor’s Commission With that kind of foundation, and with on People with Disabilities. what she has accomplished so far, the “We make sure that people with disabilworld just might be hers. ities know their rights and know what they “As far as God’s plan I don’t know are eligible for—so they can live their lives what He has in store for me,” she said. “So like everybody else,” Brookins said. I am taking it one day at a time. I feel He Regardless of the many ways that put me on the earth to do something—evBrookins serves the community, no role has erything up to this point is preparing me for been more important to her than serving as that.” Wesleyan’s alumni association president. “I want to make sure the alumni of Texas Wesleyan come back to the Poly community,” she said. “There is such a need here.” Brookins said the job is also about caring for the alumni. “We mentor new alumni,” she said. “As soon as they graduate, if they need help, we’re there.” Brookins’ term as alumni president concluded on April 25. Gina Phillips, Wesleyan’s director of development and alumni relations has Photo by Tiara Nugent worked with Brookins Brookins attends the Golden Shears/Alpha Chi Breakfast during for several years. “Daphne is a tire- alumni weekend festivities April 25.

A&S, from page 1 chairs and administrative staff will remain in place as Wesleyan moves into this next semester, according to administrators. There is reportedly no curriculum change for any department. “School of Letters is an abstract term that can be used as an umbrella for language, writings and essays to fit under,” said Dr. Ben Hale, chair of the mass communication department. This department will move from its current home in the science school to the School of Arts and Letters. Arts and Letters will include humanities, language and literature, mass communication, music, religion and theater. The School of Sciences will house biology, chemistry, mathematics, computer science, physics, psychology and social sciences. As of spring 2009, Wesleyan’s total undergraduate count equaled 1,361 students, according to Sheri Caraballo, director of Institutional Research. The undergraduate population is currently split as follows: 279 in the School of Education, 298 in the School of Business and 747 in the School of Arts and Sciences, with the remaining 37 students either bridging two schools or currently being of an undeclared status. The School of Arts and Letters will keep its main offices on the second floor of Poly UMC, and the School of Sciences will house its offices at the McFadden building.

Photo by Martin Garcia

Opinions

“Road tripping across Europe this summer then off to get my master’s in counseling.” “Taking road trips this summer then off to law school.” “Making the cover of Gentleman’s Quarterly and sailing the Bahamas.”

“What are your post-graduation plans?”

“Getting married, finding a job and watching the St. Louis Cardinals routinely pummel the Astros.”

“Going on a Caribbean cruise, getting a dark tan and job hunting in the PR industry.”

Gasten Schoonover Photo Editor Business Major Bryce Wilks Sports Editor Mass Communication Major

Tiara Nugent Editor-in-Chief English Major

Martin Garcia News Editor English Major

Ryan Authier Entertainment Editor Psychology Major

April 29, 2009

The Rambler 3

Playboy = play with fire

Exploitation of women’s bodies ruins self-esteem, relationships

n the 1950s, the bright red-lipped, curvaceous Marilyn Monroe was deemed the world’s sex goddess – while wearing a size 12 dress. Today, women claiming a size eight are only acceptable as plus-size models. What kind of sick contortion has ruined America’s conception of beauty? I find it ironic that many of today’s “hottest” celebs have lain under the plastic surgeon’s knife Tiara – celebs including the Simpson sisters, Halle Berry, Jennifer Aniston, the Olsen twins and many Nugent others. These and other notorious females spotlighted all over the Internet may indeed boast a tiny figure with perfect proportions, but the body they embody behind the layers of expensive make-up, hair jobs, designer clothes and medical procedures does not equivocate anyone’s imagination. Their attractiveness isn’t even natural, yet somehow, American commoners forget that fact. ’Tis a shame indeed for women, who see the photos and read the hype about how to alter their own bodies to become gorgeous or “sexier in just 10 days,” as many a magazine put it, and become discontent with their own form. A woman may try to tuck away the wistful thoughts, but ignoring the way her body looks only increases subliminal discontentment and shame. The real problem boils down to this: beauty presents a standard of comparison – comparison to the girl next door, to the diva on TV, to the paparazzi’s critique, to the “perfection.” Thus, the ideal image – merely a figment of evaluation rather than a concrete standard – lies beyond reach, creating a swell of resentment and dissatisfaction inside women. Consider today’s mainstream magazines – Glamour, Cosmopolitan, Maxim, Vogue, Esquire Runway. Their covers flaunt and celebrate the scantily-clad (some could hardly be labeled “clad” at all) celebrities revealing as much skin as possible while still concealing the most private of body parts. Photographic angles instinctively draw the eyes to some hot spot. Erotic facial expressions seduce the vulnerable.

I love Gloria Steinem for penning, “A woman reading Playboy feels a little like a Jew reading a Nazi manual.” Is that not true? By staring down some woman’s sacrifice of her sacred body – to the wiles of Photoshop and to men – the provocative practice functions merely to illicit and upsurge lust. And the result of stimulating such arousal? I must again quote the stance of Steinem: “Pornography is the instruction. Rape is the practice, battered women are the practice, and battered children are the practice.” “That’s an extreme,” you say. “Consequences aren’t so drastic.” I believe many would disagree with you, but I’ll humor your protest in order to elucidate the great destruction immoral woman and weak men inflict upon the real, natural woman in each man’s life. His pleasurable indulgence fills her mind with insecurity, inferiority and rejection. She knows the porn star standard to which she has been compared, and that someone besides her has quenched his thirst. Questions such as “Why am I not good enough?” infiltrate her mind and devastate her soul. Relationships are distanced, and, if not severed, eternally scarred. Don’t think that not having a significant other in the present excuses you from accountability – the future Perhaps you think me dealing harshly with men. Keep reading. The only reason men can perversely stare at the nude bodies of random women is because those women first subject their bodies and relinquish their dignity and purity. The first step to moral revolution and the restoration of not relationships involves eradicating the exploitation of women’s bodies. Men must rise to higher Courtesy of dreamstime.com integrity, loyalty and support. Women must refute and renounce society’s false dimensions and attributes of beauty and accepting yourself. How refreshing it would be to witness a new wave of feminine confidence, ladies young and old alike feeling comfortable in their own skin and embracing themselves, who they are, who they are destined to be, for each and every one is beautiful. Tiara Nugent is a senior English major and is editor-in-chief for The Rambler.

Evolution the only scientific theory for classrooms Dear Editor, Does Intelligent Design present “empirical evidence, logical reasoning and experimental and observable testing?” As you point out in your article (No gorilla in my mirror, April 22), that is how Texas has decided to define science. By all accounts, it does not. Therefore, it is not one of the “sides” to the scientific debate. Teaching religion in a science classroom is never appropriate. There is a reason that, in a study conducted by the University of Texas at Arlington’s sociology department, over 95 percent of science professors in Texas advocate teaching only evolution. Science is about facts, experimentation and observable results. Religion is about faith and feelings. Evolution has undergone a century and a half of revision, modification and, yes, evolution since the time of Darwin. It is overly simplistic to suggest that one is looking at one’s ancestors in the zoo; it also shows that whoever taught you evolution left out a few important facts (for example, the difference between the big-bang theory and Darwin’s theory, or the difference between being descended from apes and sharing common ancestors). The main key to the intelligent design/

evolution debate is that ID has never presented than the flood in geology and skeletal structure an alternative way to explain life on earth that rather than Adam’s rib in anatomy. They are is supported by facts and evidence. Irreducible science. complexity was a major issue for the ID Evolution is a theory supported by chemical, community, with them arguing that eyes and paleontological, genetic, anthropological and flagellum are too complex to have evolved. biological evidence. As new evidence arises, the Biology responds by showing them eyespots, theory must be modified. This is the backbone of simple eyes the scientific method and a tenet and bacterial which scientists embrace. The Religion is about faith and feelings. modifications to Bible is a holy book, not a lab evolution has undergone a century and eventually lead to manual. a half of revision, modification, and, movement. Creationism may be easier yes,evolution since the time of Darwin. to understand, may make you Teaching intelligent design It is overly simplistic to suggest that feel special and may provide one is looking at one’s ancestors in the you with more comfort than along with evolution is hardly zoo...” evolution, but it and its fair because religion-in-science-clothing they are not two twin intelligent design are not equivalent theories. You assume that they are testable or observable. They are not science and two equal theories and therefore deserve equal therefore have no place in a science classroom. time taught in the classroom. But ID/creationism Evolution is not some atheist conspiracy to is missing something very important: facts, discredit faith, any more than the heliocentric evidence and support. There are no “two equal theory of the solar system was for Galileo. It is sides” to evolution. a theory formed using the scientific method and There is a scientific theory (theory – like therefore is the only current theory with a place atomic theory and germ theory – all with in a science classroom. evidence and support) on one side and an Kaeli Vandertulip exclusion of scientific thought on the other. Reference and Information Services Librarian This is why we teach plate tectonics rather

The Rambler

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

Martin Garcia, news editor Bryce Wilks, sports editor Ashley 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 down to fewer seats at Wesleyan’s spring 2009 graduation.

Thumbs down to the hard-toread Wesleyan billboards.

Thumbs down to the Coke machines now charging one dollar instead of 75 cents.

Thumbs up to Java Joe’s for introducing yummy chicken salad sandwiches.

College Life

4 The Rambler

April 29, 2009

You’re goin’ down Wesleyan professors made a splash April 22 at Wesleyan’s Earth Day celebration, an event co-sponsored by the American Chemical Society, Student Life and Beta Beta Beta, a student group. Professors, including Joe Brown (left) and Dr. Marilyn Pugh (right), took part in a dunking booth. Free food and snow cones rounded out the green day party. Photos by Gasten Schoonover

Grads must make themselves shine in tough job market I

Martin Garcia

t’s no secret that the job market is tough right now. Every day headlines declare that unemployment rates continue to grow—in virtually every part of the country. So what does that mean for the class of 2009? Is the slate of available jobs going to be enough to handle the new wave joining the workforce? For those that do seek to begin their careers and not go to graduate school, the most important thing to remember is that you have to sell yourself and be sure that you are (and remain) at the top of the résumé stack. Selling yourself should be easy, considering the social networks like Facebook and Twitter that enable us to continuously market ourselves with status updates, photos and posts. But there’s a fine line between social and professional; and some don’t know when it is appropriate to

cross it and not. If you’re going to attempt to market yourself online, be sure to do just that—don’t post or publish anything that you wouldn’t want to share with your mother. Employers and hiring managers only seek to know how you’re going to benefit their respective companies. Part of selling your experience means having a résumé that is ready for presentation. In a recent survey by CarrerBuilder.com, the company showed that 25 percent of hiring managers receive more than 75 résumés for each position and that 42 percent receive more than 50. The competition is tightening, and the struggle to land a job doesn’t seem to be getting any easier. Paula Asinof, principal and founder of Yellow Brick Path, a career management coaching and consulting firm, says that good résumés “focus on the things that matter.” One must “define his or herself and not let others do it for them.”

There are misconceptions about résumés. There are right ways to approach them and wrong ways. By understanding the science behind presenting a résumé, potential workers will then be able to competitively battle with other qualified individuals for a job. Along with résumés, portfolios are a vital part of presenting one’s self image. “Keep it organized and make it easily accessible,” Asinof said. “Display it in a résumé addendum, in a hard copy format and in an electronic format such as a person’s Web site.” If résumés and portfolios aren’t getting the job done, then it’s probably because people don’t understand them well enough. Graduates in 2009 must have these skills sharpened by now if they plan to start working as early as June. An education is expensive; students also need to know how to showcase its value. Another great tip in personal presentation is etiquette—personal, public and dining room etiquette. Simple things like knowing how to shake hands, knowing where to place your napkin on the table or knowing that the tall skinny glass is for champagne and the shorter, rounder glass is for wine will go a long way. Just like career services are available on college campuses, so are etiquette seminars and dinners. In a recent lecture to the pre-professional program (3PR), professor Joe Brown taught the students that it’s not OK to stack your plate at a buffet and that it’s impolite to offer a woman a handshake (if you’re a man). By honing these skills, along with sharpening the résumé and portfolio, students might have a better shot and earning a salary sooner than later. MSN Careers advises job seekers to show confidence, to target their job search and to get primed. Are you ready to make yourself stand out? Martin Garcia is a senior mass communication major and is news editor for The Rambler.

Drink, drive, destroy A

ll the recent summer-ish weather has my head turning with visions of pools, beaches and all things tropical. Let’s just hope that someone whose head is turning from another cause doesn’t put a swift end to my sunshine schedule. There has been a recent outbreak of deadly automobile accidents both nationally and locally that have centered Bryce on dumbfounding drunk drivers. I for Wilks one am more fearful to head into the summer season as drivers seem more willing than ever to put my life – and yours – at risk. Of course everyone makes mistakes, but the exposure that has been given to intoxicated driving has made it progressively harder and harder to forgive. It’s not like people have no evidence of what usually happens. People drink, people drive, people die. The following cases that have already occurred in 2009 prove that no one is immune to tragedy, no matter if they’re young, old, rich or famous. April 12: Dallas teen Kimberly Martinez was killed when the car she was riding in swerved across Interstate 35 at Forest Lane and collided with a concrete pole. CBS 11 reported that her driver, Albino Gonzalez, admitted to having three drinks prior to driving and was actually drinking a beer while driving at the time of the crash. Gonzalez faces counts of intoxication manslaughter, intoxication assault and

driving without a license. April 9: California resident Andrew Gallo ran a red light and killed 22-year-old Los Angeles Angels pitcher Nick Adenhart and two others. Gallo’s blood alcohol content was three times the legal limit and he is now facing three counts of murder according to the Orange County district attorney.

Photo by Gasten Schoonover

Gallo was driving with a suspended license after previous convictions on drunk driving in 2006 and public intoxication in 2007, according to the Associated Press. March 14: Cleveland Browns receiver Donte Stallworth struck and killed a pedestrian with his vehicle in Miami. Stallworth’s blood alcohol level was .12 (compared with a .08 legal limit). He was charged with driving under the influence and second degree manslaughter, according to the Mi-

Don’t let your summer break get too carefree

ami Herald. He could spend as many as 15 years in prison and will likely never play football competitively again. College students and other young people were involved in nearly all of the cases above, and it doesn’t surprise me considering what I have observed in college. Students at Wesleyan and elsewhere routinely make light of basically playing Russian roulette with their life and endangering others. I have overheard statements such as “I was so hammered that I don’t remember driving home last night” followed by giggling. I can guarantee you that drivers who have killed people aren’t laughing anymore. The possibilities and opportunities that await Wesleyan’s student body are immense. It would be foolish and wasteful for a promising young life to be lost because of idiotic and selfish actions. We have all seen the carnage that results from intoxicated drivers and as educated young people and should be smart enough to analyze situations and make decisions that are not reckless to ourselves and the community. Don’t be the selfish individual that lets a potentially “fun” night for you end someone else’s promising life. Monitor yourself and your families, roommates and coworkers in order to save someone’s son, mother or best friend. Don’t put my life in danger either. I want to see the beautiful beaches this summer, next summer and beyond. Bryce Wilks is a senior mass communication major and is sports editor for The Rambler.

Kiss poverty goodbye The Rambler is calling all editors for Fall 2009.

Working for The Rambler is berry fruitful

Portfolio clips Money Experience Connections

Email twurambler@yahoo.com for more information.

Inquire at twurambler@yahoo.com

Sports

April 29, 2009

Kickin’ it new school

Quick Quote

“Progress always involves risks. You can’t steal second base and keep your foot on first.” - Frederick B. Wilcox Author Cornett taking helm of golf team in 2009-10 After 10 years as head golf coach, Kevin Millikan will step down following the 2009 season to concentrate on his position as the Rams athletic director. Assistant Bobby Cornett (below), who coached the Rams golf team from 1985 to 1999 will step back into that role. Cornett has a sparkling record as a coach including three national championships and three NAIA coach of the year awards. He began his playing career at Wesleyan in 1969 and won a team national championship along with a personal AllAmerican award. Cornett has also played on the National Senior Tour and Senior PGA Tour.

Bobby Cornett

Wesleyan’s kickboxing classes give students a fresh look at self defense Ryan Authier

ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

Getting motivated to workout is not an easy task. However, when you’re getting graded for it, inspiration to sweat comes a bit easier. Although Wesleyan’s GEC no longer requires an activity credit, there are still plenty of options from scuba and swimming to yoga and self defense. But as sports such as Ultimate Fighting Championship and Mixed Martial Arts continue to surge with popularity, it is Wesleyan’s kickboxing class that sees the most action each semester. Kickboxing is one of the few forms of martial arts with its origins in the west. In the early 1970s, American karate competitors wanted a sport that fought until knockout with full contact punches and kicks, rather than the strict scoring system that is karate. Eventually this evolved into American kickboxing (www.arlingtonmma.com). Fought in a regulation size boxing ring, kickboxing is strictly a standup sport using elements of boxing and kicks typically seen in karate. Opponents are only allowed to strike with punches and kicks above the hip, or with leg sweeps to the feet. Any strikes with the elbow or knee are forbidden. Wesleyan’s kickboxing course is taught by master instructor Francois (Franc) Nguyen, an experienced trainer, manager and promoter who has coached UFC, Yamma Pit, and Olympic fighters and teams. He brings his experience to Wesleyan in order to train students in both kickboxing and self defense. Though the class will provide an aerobic workout, the primary purpose is to teach students fighting techniques. The primary style is of course American kickboxing, but Nguyen, who is trained in various martial arts, likes to tie in other styles as well including Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, Taekwondo and Judo. “I like to bring in other trainers from [my gym] to help expand on the fighting styles that they specialize in,” Nguyen said. “We’re even looking to start a taekwondo team here at Wesleyan next year to compete on a state or national Courtesy of worldkickboxingnetwork.com level.” Kickboxing is a standup sport using elements of boxing and kicks used in karate. As an added bonus to signing up for his class, Nguyen also offers all of his students the opportunity to come and workout at his training facility in Arlington free of charge. “There is only so much we can teach in a 50 minute class period. I like my students to come and get the opportunity to watch and train with professional UFC and Olympic-caliber fighters and coaches,” Nguyen added. The class is really intended to give people an experience that they wouldn’t get from any other college course while offering a unique work out and the chance to let off a little steam at the same time. The class will meet Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 11 a.m. in the fall semester.

The Rambler 5

Sports Briefs Rams honor athletes for outstanding year April 22 The Wesleyan athletic department celebrated the outstanding achievements of its student-athletes April 22. In 2008-09, the Rams won three conference championships and five national titles. They boasted three AllAmericans and 81 studentathletes posted grade point averages of 3.0 or higher. Special awards included: Most Outstanding Athlete: Chris Berry (Men’s Basketball) Brittany O’Brien (Women’s Soccer) O.D. and Maurice Bounds Scholar-Athlete Award: Joakim Soderbaum (Men’s Soccer) Ashley Oldham (Softball) Gene and Ann Burge Sportsmanship Award: Mark Hazinski (Table Tennis) Haley Butler (Softball) Most Valuable Players: Blake Walker (Baseball) Carlos Arenas (Golf) Lauren Garza (Softball) Kaitlynn Romig (Volleyball) Ines Perhoc (Table Tennis) Mark Hazinski (Table Tennis) Kim Gatlin (Basketball) Chris Berry (Basketball) Brianna McKernon (Soccer) Brittany O’Brien (Soccer) Chamu Prince (Soccer) Sandy Gonzales (Dance) Oscar Lazarky (Cheer) Laura Medaris (Training) Aldis Presley (JV Basketball)

Dear Texas Wesleyan Student,

You have an exciting opportunity for Fall 2009! We want you to tell your friends about the benefits of living in Wesleyan Village. For each friend you refer who signs a new contract and moves into Wesleyan Village in Fall 2009, we’ll give you $250 off of your rent! You will also have the added benefit of keeping your friends close. For more information about the application process please visit us online at:

www.txwes.edu/residencelife/howtoapply.htm Sincerely, Residence Life Staff - Texas Wesleyan University 817.413.5000 housing@txwes.edu

Entertainment

April 29, 2009

The Rambler 6

Wesleyan community bids Simon adieu Tiara Nugent

respect. With great satisfaction, Simons – now watches younger colleagues – “kids” he taught 35 years ago – succeed in local roles of music pedagogy. These alumni have seized the torch and are carrying out his melodic mission to ensure the next generation will appreciate the craft and art of song. The extent of Simon’s impact on students reaches further than the classroom in which he evokes chuckles from students with his colloquial signature lines such as,

for those who did not experience his passion for music.” Encouragement and support has not been limited to students only. “Simons has also been both ‘Mr. Outreach’ and ‘Mr. When the crickets chirp their songs as the summer heat Cordiality’ when it comes to contact with our alums, the peaks this August, and the school bells ring their student recruiting of a great many of our prospective students and summons, one of Wesleyan’s most faithful and beloved in his dedicated support of faculty and student recitals and professors will find himself outside the classroom for the concerts over the years,” said John Fisher, music department first time since 1945. chair. “He will be sorely missed.” Steve Simons commenced his career at Texas Wesleyan After 41 years in the classroom before the in 1968 as director of choral activities after faces of countless students, Simons made the spending five years teaching high school tough decision to retire. Residing in the area to conducting in Michigan. enjoy his freed time are two daughters, a son and Besides directing the Wesleyan Singers, a seven grandsons below the age of 7. chorus composed of Wesleyan music students, “I have seven good reasons for retirement Simons organized the Wesleyan Jazz Singers, right there,” said Simons, a smile playing has directed Opera Workshop and the Wesleyan across his face at the thought of the energetic Chorale and has taught choral conducting. youngsters. “My kids are not shy in asking for a During Simons’ tenure, the Wesleyan babysitter.” Singers sang in Washington D.C. on the Since the bride of his youth, Tani, will centennial week of July 4, 1976, and completed continue her role as principal of Nola Dunn four European choir tours with the Chancel Elementary School in Burleson for a few more Choir from First United Methodist Church Fort years, Simons plans to spend some hours Worth. These career highlights crescendoed with putting on the turf and put off world travels for a 1998 FUMC concert before a full house at a couple years. In the meantime he will dream Carnegie Hall in New York. of renting an Italian villa for a month, exploring Back in Fort Worth, Simons functioned as Scandinavia and soaking in the sights and a key player in the development of Wesleyan’s sounds of the British Isles. He plans to continue newest music degrees in addition to teaching 19 directing the Arlington Heights Methodist different courses. After years of wide variety, Church choir and support Wesleyan music in Simons settled to teach Enjoyment of Music, a every way possible. fine arts course, as well as a music history class “I feel good about feeling I’m going out every semester for the next nearly one and a half Photo by Tiara Nugent strong and not limping to the finish line,” said decades. Simons, with one of his “seven reasons to retire,” attends his retirement reception April 21. Simons. “Simons is like a music history “Yet the end is almost emotional. I am just encyclopedia,” said Jonah Copeland, graduating “So the next time you’re at a cocktail party and someone shocked at how fast time has gone. If time flies when you’re senior music major. asks you what Beethoven’s Symphony No.9 was like, you having fun, this was certainly fun. I feel honored to say I Yet despite his many laudable accomplishments, Simons believe I’ve seen Wesleyan at its finest and have positive hardly mentions one. A modest man, he instead reiterates his can say. . . .” His vivacious passion for music spills over into feelings about its future.” lifelong goal – to give students a love for music like never everyday life. Wesleyan can’t quite bid Simons “So long, farewell, auf before – and to make a difference in individual students’ Stephanie Darbo, a senior political science major, relays Wiedersehen, goodbye,” for the man who inspired so very lives. how the altruistic professor changed her life. many students to dream the impossible, and then to achieve “You always hope you’re impacting someone for good “Dr. Simons is one of my favorite people in the world. it, will never be forgotten. Rather, the devoted professor along your way,” said Simons. He gave me an undying love for Texas Wesleyan University, will be remembered for conducting a triumphant movement Indeed, he need never fear he’s fallen short in that and I will forever be grateful.” Darbo said. “I am only sorry on many a student’s life soundtrack. EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

beat the summer heat with dvds I

n search of some cheap, cool fun, you could find yourself surfing Netflix this summer. But that begs the question: Which DVDs are worth your time and cash? Doubt Doubt stars Meryl Streep as Sister Aloysius Beauvier, a strict, selfrighteous Catholic high school nun who accuses a priest (Philip Seymour Hoffman) of committing a heinous act with a young student. This mind-twisting drama also stars Amy Adams, famously known for her role as the sweet and naive damsel in distress in Enchanted, who Monique plays a young nun caught in the middle of drama that is escalating at the Nolly school. Conflict between Sister Aloysius and Father Flynn starts because both Aloysius and Flynn are set in their ways in which to run the school and treat the children. Father Flynn feels that the school should be more modern and allow the children to express how they feel. Sister Aloysius, on the other hand, believes the children should be in an environment of fear in order to keep them in line. This conflict escalates when Sister James reveals to Sister Aloysius that Father Flynn may be spending too much time with one of the students. Despite the lack of evidence, from that moment on Sister Aloysius’s mission is to prove that the lovable and joyful priest is a pedophile and is determined to remove him from the school. This movie is a must-see drama that will have you wondering what is and what is not real. The title speaks for itself, and as the credits role you too will still be left with doubt. On a scale of one to 10: 10. 7 Pounds 7 Pounds is another movie well worth watching. This emotional drama revolves around the life of Ben Thomas, a character played by Will Smith. Thomas is an Internal Revenue Service agent with a deep secret.

Wednesday

Look Ahead

On Campus:

Off Campus:

On Campus:

Friday

Off Campus:

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

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

• Bart Crow Band: Billy Bob’s Texas, 10:30 p.m.

Off Campus:

• Cake: Palladium Ballroom, 7 p.m.

Weekly Movie Releases: Ghosts of Girlfriends Past; X-Men Origins: Wolverine; Battle for Terra

• Frost/Nixon: Majestic Theatre, 8 p.m.

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

Saturday

Thursday

Sunday

Off Campus:

• Dave Matthew’s Band: Superpages.com Center, 7 p.m.

•Mayfest: Trinity Park, 11 a.m.

• Kenny Chesney: Pizza Hut Park, 5:30 p.m.

• Wesleyan Chorale Concert: Arlington Heights UMC, 7:30 p.m.

Monday

Off Campus:

• George Clinton and parliament Funkadelic: House of Blues Dallas, 8:30 p.m.

Tuesday

Off Campus:

• Flight of the Conchords: Nokia Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Weekly DVD Releases: The Curious Case of Benjamin Button; Last Chance Harvey; Smother

Thomas steals the identity of his younger brother in order to reach out to seven strangers in hopes of changing their lives for the better. The strangers are unaware that Thomas is watching their every move in order to determine if they are worthy of the precious gifts he is about to give them. On his path to helping others he, unexpectedly falls in love with terminally ill patient Emily Posa (Rosario Dawson). Posa loves the charming and charismatic ways of Thomas but desperately wants to know more about his past. The more she tries to uncover, the more distant Thomas becomes. Posa unsuccessfully tries to uncover the secrets that Thomas is hiding, but soon discovers through the gift he gave her just how deep his love for her went. This very emotional drama takes you on the journey of what it is like to have died, lived, loved and lost. On a scale of 1 to 10: 9. The Tale of Despereaux For those with a little kid inside of us, The Tale of Despereaux is a cute little story about a mouse longing to rebuild the lost kingdom of Dor. A once happy, magical kingdom filled with laughter turns to a dark and lonely place after the king becomes distressed. His daughter, the beautiful princess Pea, feels trapped and alone; the light that once filled the kingdom is now filled with darkness and disorder. This pint-sized mouse turns to a hero and his lovable side kick Roscuro both risk their lives to rescue the beautiful princess Pea. Both Despereaux and Roscuro will have to be brave once they confront the horrible leader of the sewer rats who wants revenge on humans. Lending their voices for this animated tale are stars Matthew Broderick, Dustin Hoffman, Emma Watson and Tracey Ullman. You don’t have to be a kid to see this movie; it’s a film for those of all ages. On a scale of 1 to 10: 8. The Day The Earth Stood Still For those Keanu Reeves fans, I must say his latest role as an extra-terrestrial in the movie The Day The Earth Stood Still was a bit disappointing. Reeves is an extra-terrestrial named Clatu whose mission is to lead animals to a safe place in order to destroy the human race. Jennifer Connelly also stars in this science fiction flick as Helen Benson, a research scientist that was recently widowed and the single mother of Jacob (Jaden Smith) who offers her help when the alien being first appears in the middle of Manhattan. Kathy Bates plays the role of Regina Jackson, the secretary of state who is not at all pleased with the new arrival. The scientists gather around and watch in amazement as the being transforms himself into his human form. Jackson orders Clatu to be detained and sedated in order to for her to take control of the situation. Unfortunately for Jackson, Benson helps Clatu escape from the hands of the government where he is being questioned about his reasons for being on planet earth. Before completing his mission, Clute observes the human race and how humans react to everyday life, how they treat one another and how they treat the earth in general. One particularly interesting scene took place in the air port. Clatu stood around eating a sandwich watching how humans yell and screamed at each other, acting more like animals than humans. Benson and her son Jacob spend the remainder of the film trying to convince Clatu that the human race should be spared. The actors all played up to their parts, including young Jacob, but the film was the same typical plot of extra-terrestrials coming to destroy the human race because of their lack of tender loving care to Mother Earth. With a twist of plot or an unexpected ending, this movie could’ve been more appealing. On a scale of 1 to 10 : 4. Monique Nolly is a senior mass communication major and is a staff writer for The Rambler.