The Rambler, Vol. 101, No.6 by The Rambler

The Rambler

The students’ voice since 1917

Fort Worth, Texas

October 22, 2008

NEWS BRIEFS

Vol. 101, No. 7

Harboring the culture that makes us unique

Express yourself at the open mic Sigma Tau Delta, together with Aries, a journal of creative expression, invites everyone to the open-mic poetry reading at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 23 in the Louella Baker Martin Pavilion. Participants are encouraged to bring their favorite piece of literature or art and share with the crowd. The event follows the fall 2008 inductions in to the Nu Zeta chapter of the International English Honor Society. At 6 p.m. new members will be recognized for their distinct achievements in the English language and literature studies. Vote! Texas Wesleyan is hosting an early voting center from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Oct. 23. in the Brown-Lupton Center. Casino Night Join SGA from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Nov. 6 for a night of food, games, prizes and live jazz. The $5 ticket proceeds go to the Innocence Project of Texas. Stay healthy Flu shots will be available from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 28 at Poly UMC. Tarrant County Health Department is providing them for $20.

Wesleyan faculty and staff shine in their efforts -Professor of education Twyla Miranda recently published her article "Poetry with English Language Learner: A Catalyst for Language Use and Reading Fluency" in Current Issues and Best Practice in ESL Education.

Photos by Gasten Schoonover

Natives of Mexico and Nepal enjoy catering to the Wesleyan community and giving them a taste of their native land. The International Fair was held on Oct. 16 at the Louella Baker Martin Pavilion. The annual event always draws an enthusiastic and diverse crowd that is ready to explore other cultures.

Rail line, development under consideration for near campus MARTIN GARCIA NEWS EDITOR

East Fort Worth, the place that Texas Wesleyan calls home, has had its hands full embracing a changing economy, but it’s luckily one that still looks favorable for the residents and tenants, according to local officials. Texas’ 26th—the nickname of U.S. Rep. Michael Burgess’ district—held the 2008 Renaissance Economic Development Summit on Texas Wesleyan’s campus Oct.10. Burgess was joined by numerous dignitaries, policymakers and reformers, including Fort Worth Mayor Mike Moncrief, at the summit held in the nurse anesthesia lecture hall. It’s evident why the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex and its surrounding suburbs rank among the top of the list of best places to live in the nation, leaders said. Much of the credit goes to the innovative and ground-breaking changes Fort Worth’s east side is seeing. As Moncrief said, “This is an area of our city that people are starting to pay a lot of attention to.” We’ve all talked the talk, but it’s time to walk the walk in the east side, he said. It’s time to bring our community back to what it was several decades back, and the moment is now. Increased activity relies on a shift in focus, leaders said, and Fort Worth rests in the scope of that intent. Moncrief pitched

“sustainable development” that is happening in southeast Fort Worth. “I’m talking about urban villages and other mixed-use growth centers with a concentration of jobs, housing, commercial, public spaces, public transportation and pedestrian activity,” Moncrief said. He said this activity is and must keep increasing in order to drive the local economy. The changes are taking place. Moncrief said that the southeast area has the urban villages, retail development, income and population that are essential tools to economic growth. The area has an urban village down Rosedale Street at Evans Avenue that’s incorporating a library, municipal buildings and affordable housing in one location. This housing will attract residents, which will attract the commercial development so desperately needed. Studies that work to attract development have recently shown that the southeast area has a household income 24 percent above the average $38,000. “You can be sure [this information] will be used to attract more retail development to southeast Fort Worth,” Moncrief said. Currently, for instance, he said more work is being done at the intersection of Oakland and Lancaster with additional development slated to take place soon. Moncrief is standing strong for redevel-

See Development, page 2

-Laura Hanna, director of communications, was recently awarded the Silver Quill Award for her work editing the Wesleyan magazine. International Association of Business Communicatiors presents the award to a recipient out of a pool of more than 11 states in the region. -Dr. Jeffrey DeLotto, professor of English and author of Days of a Chameleon, led a discussion and reading of "The Top Poems of the Last Century" at Benbrook Public Library Oct. 14.

Courtesy of Deborah Roark

The Renaissance Economic Development seminar held at Wesleyan featured Fort Worth Mayor Mike Moncrief, Mayor Pro Tem Kathleen Hicks and Rep. Michael Burgess.

Planning ahead 3PR grooms students for post-graduate studies SHAMEKA HYATT STAFF WRITER

Admittance to graduate school can be even more challenging than being accepted to a four-year college. With that in mind, Wesleyan’s 3PR program is on a mission to improve pre-professional students’ chances to fulfilling their dreams of graduate study. Initiated 25 years ago by M.D. Anderson who felt students were not prepared enough for medical school, 3PR has now extended into a program that lends a helping hand to countless majors, aiding aspiring lawyers, doctors, ministers, college professors, psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers and business personnel in gaining the necessary skills to be successful in their careers. Headed by Recruitment and Activities Specialist Ann Smith, 3PR’s design consists of a series of “Teaching students professional classes and and social ethics and how to cons p o n s o r e d duct themselves is one of our initeams enacted tiatives.” – Ann Smith to develop a Recruitment and Activities Specialist professional knowledge base, communication skills and interpersonal skills. “Teaching students professional and social ethics and how to conduct themselves is one of our initiatives,” said Smith. In order to be part of 3PR, students must register in the program their freshman year so they can begin taking part in the courses. First-year 3PR students take two courses that expand their knowledge of professional career expectations. In the second year courses are aimed at personal, moral, communication and interpersonal development. After completing sophomore year seminars, student participants dive head first into the preparation process for graduate admissions and readying themselves for the standardized test they will have to pass to reach the next level. In these courses, off-campus mentorship with a professional in his or her desired field is provided to prep the students for interviews and passing required exams. In the fourth year of study, students get a review of their professions, and the development of ethics is stressed. Senior courses in the program are geared towards revisiting what students have learned and allowing them to realize what they will face in their desired careers through a series of field trips, panel discussions with professionals and seminars. Along with these activities, an ethics bowl competition team is assembled. In the Ethics Bowl Competition, students are given cases containing situations in which they must decipher the ethical dilemmas in context. Although sounding fairly

See 3PR, page 2

Opinions

Entertainment

Do Americans have what it takes to reach the pinnacle of modern literature--winning the Nobel Prize? Page 3

A local masterpiece: Firehouse Gallery shines a light on local and historical art scene. Page 6

October 22, 2008

News

The Rambler 2

lic and private cooperation, he said, a key to accomplishment. City partners opment and mobility. It’s no secret that the like Texas Wesleyan University repreMetroplex has grown exponentially and sent a huge market in overcoming the soon might face a frustrating, gridlock posibarriers of the area. tion much like Austin. Bill Bleibdrey, senior vice president “More streets to reduce congestion is of finance and administration, paid not the solution,” Moncrief said. equal respects to the partnership of local The future of Fort Worth depends on government. He also addressed the fact modern technology such as light rail, he that the area has the necessary traffic for said. This consists of the Trinity Railway development, but no place to go. Express, The T and streetcars. Yes, street“We’re creating a reason for people cars – “the catalyst for redevelopment,” to be here,” Bleibdry said. “The local according to Moncrief. Fort Worth government [labors] the While light rail would connect mixedmagic going on in southeast Fort use areas and urban villages like Evans and Worth.” Rosedale to hubs like downtown and other As part of this project, the Texas major parts of the Metroplex, a streetcar Wesleyan Scene Shop will have a comsystem “serves a particular corridor or community meeting room and gallery, munity with frequent stops,” Moncrief said. according to Moncrief, and the Texas The city is currently involved in a study Wesleyan Bookstore will act as the to identify appropriate corridors for streetanchor to the retail strip redevelopment cars and hopes to identify a starter location in January 2009. by the end of the year. The positive impact, however, is “Right now, Rosedale and Lancaster already being felt with a ripple effect, are both being considered good candidates Photo by Gasten Schoonover Moncrief said. for streetcars,” Moncrief said. “We may “Thanks to the synergy created by the even have streetcars running between this The Baker Building sits renovated at the corner of Rosedale and Wesleyan. The official dedication Poly development, both residential and and ribbon cutting will be held on Nov. 21. campus and downtown.” commercial neighbors have found an Southeast Fort Worth has the mobility, Moncrief cited the storefronts across from Wesleyan on interest in updating their landscaping and the exterior of the population, and the income to support such measures, Rosedale and the Baker House as already a success. their buildings.” agreed Moncrief and Burgess, and they pledged to unite the “It’s not in the shadows anymore, and it won’t ever be Wesleyan and Fort Worth will see at least one of the fruits area in this vision. again,” Moncrief said. of its labors soon. The dedication of the Baker Building will Renovation is no longer the problem of tomorrow. These changes are the result of an equal amount of pub- be held at 1:30 p.m. Nov. 21.

Development, from page 1

3PR, from page 1 simple, the provided cases have twists and an advanced level of difficulty. “What might be legal may not be ethical, and what may be ethical may not be legal,” said Smith. In addition to coursework, 3PR students have mandatory group and societal meetings they must attend on Mondays. The group meeting consists of all 3PR participants, and the societal meetings are divided according to profession. The meetings alternate every Monday, and the program provides students with lunch and a field-professional to speak and share their testimony. Depending on profession, additional features are

offered to students. For pre-med students, a Health Professions Advisory Committee is provided, consisting of two science professors and one non-science professor selected by the students. In this committee, interviews with students are conducted and letters of recommendation are readily available. To register in 3PR freshman year, a student must hold a minimum SAT score of 1,000 and an ACT score of 22. Student participants must maintain a 3.0 GPA or higher. Students graduating from the 3PR program in the past have been admitted to top graduate schools such as University of Texas Law and the Texas A&M Medical Branch.

Advising is on for registration EUNICE NICHOLSON STAFF WRITER

Academic advising has commenced for the upcoming spring semester and May-mester as well. Seniors, juniors and sophomores are busy meeting with their advisers and will do so through Oct. 24. Freshman academic advising begins Oct. 27 and will continue through Nov. 7. All Wesleyan freshmen are required to meet with their academic advisers in the Academic Resource Center (ARC) before registering for spring or May classes. Freshmen are encouraged to stop by the Freshman Cafe from noon to 1:15 p.m. Oct. 23. Students will be served lunch and be able to sign up for an advising appointment. The café will take place in the Bragan Fellowship hall in the Polytechnic United Methodist Church on the Wesleyan campus. “We provide one-stop shopping for our freshmen,” said Dr. Kathy Prater, who heads up freshman advising. “Instead of getting the runaround, freshmen are advised, registered and tutored all

in one place. They get everything they need here.” Prater said that one of the benefits to Texas Wesleyan has been an increase in student retention. “Students are getting quality advising, and they are happier,” Prater said. Once students have completed 24 credit hours, they are assigned an adviser from their major’s department. For example, mass communication professor Dr. Benjamin Hale advises students majoring in mass communication. “Sometimes I am able to inform them of options that they might not know about,” Hale said. “I enjoy watching a student move from success to success.” Upperclassmen have more at liberty in contacting their advisers and meeting with them. Priority registration begins Oct. 27 and continues through Nov. 3. while online registration for spring and May semesters begins Nov. 8 and continues through Dec. 5. For more information on freshman advising, contact a member of the academic advising team at (817) 531-5824.

“I don’t know. I need help.” “Paco [Saracho] dressed as a male mermaid.”

“Remember, I’m from Sweden. I haven’t seen a whole lot.”

“What’s the coolest Halloween costume you’ve ever seen?”

“A really hot nurse.”

Ashley Johnson Junior Finance Major Carlos Arenas Senior Finance Major Joakim Soderbaum Junior Kinesiology Major Armando Villareal Sophomore Business Major

Opinions What some lofty individuals, including Ignorant: Mr. Engdahl, don’t know they truly are

October 22, 2008 3

The Rambler

ince 1901, writers from around the world have been eligible for the prestigious Noble Prize in literature. Also, since that time, Americans such as Saul Bellow, John Steinbeck, Ernest Hemingway and, most recently, Toni Morrison have all enjoyed that honor. That is until now. Meet Horace Engdahl, a permanent secretary and voting member on the council that decides the recipient of the Nobel Prize for literature. According to the CHUCK Associated Press, Engdahl stated in a recent interview FAIN that Americans should not be in the running for the Nobel Prize. “The U.S. is too isolated, too insular,” he said. “They don’t translate enough and don’t really participate in the big dialogue of literature. That ignorance is restraining.” Perhaps he has a point. As Charles McGrath of the International Herald Tribune points out, “(Book) Publishers are always claiming that translations just don’t sell here, and they To discriminate against an entire no longer even try anymore.” nation for the sins of a few is bigotry; Meanwhile, trashy it is a form of discrimination as vile American romance novel translations sell just fine over- and distastefulas racism and sexism. seas. So is it true? Is America isolated and cut-off from the rest of the world? Yes, we absolutely are – though, I would argue, only geographically, not culturally. America is largely isolated from the rest of the world due to our geographical location; especially when compared to Europe where countries are so close together that one can get a pass and take a train from France to Germany to Italy, all of which speak a different language. Books translated into different languages are a necessity in a culture that lives so close together but speaks different languages – America does not have the same necessity for translations. Furthermore, the United States is home to thousands of immigrants, each bringing with them their own cultural heritage and their own American dream. Each one of these people is a spoke in the wheel that is America, each one shapes and forms and holds a vastly different view of America than the

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

Eateries’ big lie: salads are decoy for healthy fare f your life is anything like mine, you spend your days and nights rushing back and forth between job(s), class and homework every day of the week, snatching as many moments as possible with boy/girlfriend and family. Of course, with that flighty, onTIARA the-go and in-demand schedNUGENT ule, healthful eating habits can easily fall by the wayside. Along every highway and many a road, familiar logos stand out against the sky beckoning the famished to stop for instant gratification – the classic American trap. Instant gratification equates just about the only positive element of eating establishments, especially in fast food. In recent years, many restaurants have tried to come up with healthier menus, tossing out adjectives like fresh, lean, light and wholesome to describe the menu items best for your health. Note I said best. These labels by no means should implicate nutritious – it is a system of relative comparison meant to fool you into mindlessly believing advertisement. A select few places achieved some amount of success in reducing harmful substances: some of Wendy’s alternatives to fries with value meals – mandarin oranges and salad without dressing (or even just a drizzle of fat-free dressing) give significant cutback in calories and fat. Taco Bell created the Fresco style menu by executing an 86 on the cheese and adding guilt-free Fiesta Salsa instead. This exchange booted some unnecessary fats, allowing all 9 Fresco items to stay under 9 grams of fat. Perhaps not the ideal for one taco, but an improvement for sure. Of course, putting fat on you is not the restaurant’s mission at all. “Jack-in-the-Box wants you to make wise decisions as part of your balanced lifestyle and diet,” proclaims the restaurant’s Web site. Hmm . . . makes sense then that the Sourdough Ultimate Cheeseburger contains 950 calories. Deception runs rampant in the restaurant world, no matter if you dine behind the steering wheel on your way to work or enjoy a relaxing meal with companions at a sit-down establish-

ment. Coy restaurants create illusions of “healthy” meals to boost sales and fool customers into thinking they are doing themselves a favor. Yet, in reality, by no means can these chains think for a minute these victuals offer benefit to the body. Take, for instance salads. According to Chili’s nutritional values index, their Chicken Caesar Salad has 1010 calories/78g of fat, the Quesadilla Explosion Salad holds 980 calories/53g of fat, and the Boneless Buffalo Salad (before you smother it in creamy Ranch dressing) provides 910 calories with 58 grams of fat. In contrast to these seemingly “healthy” menu items (there is leafy green lettuce under there after all), the no-no Burger Bites give you a caloric intake of “only” 850 paired with 75g of fat, with the Grilled Chicken Sandwich calories running just ten shy of a caloric tie besides 47g of fat. If those stats horrify you, don’t take a look at the nutritional breakdown of fajitas and other burgers. As a waitress, I have seen countless prim ladies order soup and salad, noting explicitly the big sacrifice they think they are making by not ordering off other sections of the menu. I am then quite amused when they order a creambased soup and regular dressing. If they only knew. . . However, I cannot wholly lay the blame on the eateries themselves. People who frequent those locales are – more often than not – ignorant of what they’re dumping into their bodies by the supersized cardboard sleeve-full. Although a very conventional lunch and dinner selection today’s society, fast food Growing up, my mom would always admonish my siblings and I whenever we craved a sweet treat our pantry or freezer didn’t offer: “Imagine wearing what you want to eat.” Doing so provides quite a disgusting image. Close your eyes and visualize that triplepatty heart-attack-waiting-to-happen burger rounding out the seat of your pants, greasy French fries comprising flabby arms, and fatty fried chicken, oily onion rings, and sky-high calorie dessert building blubber in your belly – I’ll bet the tantalizing taste bud sensations (if

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that’s what you deem the chow to be) aren’t quite so appetizing any more. My other qualm with constant opting for fast food involves economics and the lack thereof. Just say the average price of a meal sucks five dollars out of your pocket (and that is picking the plain and cheap meal at best!). Multiply it times 5 days a week, 20 work days in a month. Bam. A 125 dollar deficiency in your bank account . . . just for lunch! It takes mere minutes to whip up a sandwich unique to your taste or a salad brimming with

colorful veggies. Yogurt, fruit and even a little something to satisfy your sweet tooth (watch out though – Little Debbies aren’t so innocent!) can supplement nicely, and pad your wallet besides. The options for a lunch from home are bountiful – a little bit of effort is all that is required. Tiara Nugent is a sophomore writing major and is a staff writer for 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

one before. This eclectic citizenship makes American values difficult to pin down, and, necessarily, difficult to lump together and condemn. Maybe the mass American culture doesn’t seek out and buy English translations of foreign literature, but many immigrants purchase books written in their native tongue. Does this not count as cultural literary diversity? Are immigrants not purchasing the proper texts? Is there a recommended reading list floating around Europe somewhere that will solve all of America’s ills? Americans are “too sensitive to trends in their own mass culture,” which drags down their work, Engdahl said, according to telegraph.co.uk. As a writer, one is often told, “write what you know.” Cultural trends are a part of American life, and as a result, find their way into its literature. Is it such a horrible crime for writers to reflect their culture in their work? I would think great literature reflects the zeitgeist of the culture in which it was written; besides, it’s not like America is the only nation in the world to suffer mass cultural trends. A glance at pop culture from Asia, France or even the Netherlands (all of whom have spawned Noble Prize recipients) reveals similar pop culture trends to that of America. Engdahl was also said, “Europe is the center of the literary world, not the U.S.” Mr. Engdahl, sir, I don’t recall anyone making such a claim aside from yourself. Based on this, it would seem the Swedish secretary has some sort of personal vendetta against America, which, I’m sad to admit, is understandable in these troubled times. But to ostracize a whole nation of authors simply because you disagree with a country’s politics or you don’t care for their pop culture is more ignorant than anything our pop culture machine has ever produced (and I’m counting Who Wants to Marry a Millionaire). To discriminate against an entire nation for the sins of a few is bigotry; it is a form of discrimination as vile and distasteful as racism and sexism. Judging for such a prize should be done by impartial judges basing their decisions on the quality of work, not the state of the respective author’s union. Perhaps, Mr. Engdahl, if you cannot overcome your short-sighted bigotry to see that America has and will continue to produce quality literature, then, dear sir, I’m afraid it is you who has the problem with ignorance.

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 Fax: 531-4878 E-mail: twurambler@yahoo.com

Thumbs up to the new pictures on the university’s home page.

Thumbs down to not opening Martin Field parking prior to matches. Players and spectators are having to park on the street instead.

Thumbs up to early voting on campus Oct. 21-23.

Thumbs up to Betsy Johnson and her team for putting on another great International Week.

4 October 22, 2008

College Life

uizzes. Midterms. Term papers. Finals. The collegiate life cycles round and round with such dreaded mental workouts. Students sacrifice sleep, pleasures and great quantities of precious time just to earn a degree and make a grand debut in the professional workplace at their dream jobs. Beware – that idealistic hope has a catch. How do you transition from point A as a student to point B as a valued employee bringing in the big bucks? Sheri Mata, director of Texas Wesleyan’s Career Services, says that an impressive resume is the primary key to marketing your skills and abilities in today’s job market. “When the employer sees it, he needs to say ‘Wow,’ and if he doesn’t, you’ve blown it,” Mata said. “The information an employer finds within your resume should be what sets you apart from everyone else.”

Use the right words

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room.” Fowler is currently a public information officer assisting in printed publication, media relations, graphic design, Web site content development and other tasks relating to communication between Grand Prairie and its public.

Become a softy Internships aren’t the only form of workforce preparation for college students, submits Debbie Forrester, human resource manager of Chesapeake Energy’s downtown Fort Worth office. She views college as an abundance of opportunities students should take advantage of in every way possible. Whether you participate in community service or are involved with on-campus clubs and societies, action communicates that you are one who takes initiative and tends to be proactive. Action itself is not sufficient unless properly carried out. “Be faithful in little to be faithful in much.” So goes an adage most people have heard spun in one way or another. These words of wisdom also apply to that seemingly menial job you currently scrape your existence out from. As Forrester instructed, no matter your duties, there are lessons to be learned here in the present that can put you a step ahead of future competition. Consider, for instance, the job of a waiter. A common manner of employment for students, this job can assist in enhancing people skills, attention to detail and a subservient manner, all attributes – also known as soft skills – valuable in a professional work environment. Soft skills – the manners and qualities that are needed regardless of your field – are a wise area to cultivate while in college, said Mata. “Hard skills – those that are based on ability – are very important in some lines of work,” Mata said. “But employers can usually teach those if needed. They cannot teach you soft skills.” Resourcefulness, competency, punctuality and the ability to receive constructive criticism are examples Mata gives of soft skills. She points out that students can work now to improve their soft skills by arriving on time to class and practicing good time management to complete homework assignments. Practicing good habits in college will eventually find you walking across a stage in Courtesy of Google Images cap and gown to receive the long-sought degree. Long before that anticipated moment arrives, however, the job hunt is on.

Get down to business

With this in mind, Mata labeled the detailed job qualifications as the most important component of a resume. All relevant experience and abilities should be listed using the terminology of the desired field, she said. For example, an education graduate seeking an elementary teaching position would not inform the district superintendent he “helped” third graders with their homework three times a week throughout college. Rather, it would be more appropriate for the job seeker to convey his experience tutoring third grade students. Secondly, Mata says excellent interview skills – such as making consistent eye contact and speaking in a confident tone – are crucial to any job-seeker. Appearance is always a biggie, but not all interview tips are so familiar. Careful observation and mirroring of the interviewer’s manner and body language is a psychological strategy that often leaves a more favorable impression in the interviewer’s mind. “People like themselves,” Mata explained, “and they’ll like people who are just like themselves. Consequently, they will often hire people who act and think just as they do.” According to Mata, when it comes to interview preparation, nothing can replace the value of a rigorous mock interview. Texas Wesleyan Career Services offers this prep tool to all students by appointment with each session spanning one and a half to two hours. According to Mata, the student is asked classic interview questions, after which the interviewer/coach will go over each question and answer. The student will be told whether or not his/her answers were effective and why, plus receive suggestions on how to better express personal strengths and abilities.

by tiara nugent

Collegiate effort affects tomorrow’s career

Make the connection Internships comprise the third element in becoming the ultimate job candidate. In an employer’s mindset, Mata says an internship under your belt means that you have not only book knowledge of the field, but hands-on experience within it as well. From the point of view of a job-seeker, an internship in your desired line of work provides experience and perspective on your future career path. In addition – as alumna Megan Krause (BA ’08) attests – it will allow a smoother transition into assuming your new role and fulfilling your supervisor’s expectations. Krause served as administrative assistant to Gilbert Zepeda, senior financial adviser for the AIG Advisor Group throughout her junior and senior years. “My internship prepared me a lot for my current job, even though I am an auditor,” Krause said. “The internship taught me how to become better organized, a better communicator and the importance of accuracy. Those are all things that help me in my current job.” Krause began a career with the Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA) under the U.S. Department of Defense this past summer, just two months after receiving her degree in finance from Wesleyan. Her initial introduction to the company occurred at Wesleyan’s spring career fair. For Whitney Fowler, a 2006 graduate of the mass communication department, an internship turned into a rewarding career. “I signed up to receive e-mail job postings from Wesleyan’s Career Services,” Fowler said. “That’s how I found out about the internship with the city of Grand Prairie’s communications and marketing department. The summer internship turned into a full-time job after I graduated, and that’s where I am two and a half years later.” Aside from the possibility of an internship blossoming into a long-term career, Fowler sees other advantages from internships along the same lines as Mata and Krause. “The experience you gain is a crucial addition to your resume,” she said. “And you might find out important things about your career field that aren’t covered in the class-

Cross your t’s and dot your i’s With the U.S. economy comparable to a shaky ship on a stormy sea, the job market is seeing stricter competition and scarcer openings. Tiffany Tucker of Cornerstone Staffing in Bedford counsels students to commence the job hunt at least six months prior to graduation. During this period of seeking, Say ‘Yes sir.’ Forrester recommends giving careful In the grown-up world, crossing your “t” attention to the qualifications sections and dotting your “i” are to correct grammar of job postings. The list of qualificawhat etiquette is to the professional workplace. tions dictates the bare minimum that the company requires for a position. * Don’t think any work is “beneath you.” Preferred qualifications, on the other Learn to deal with “gofer work” and some hand, informs you of the desirable down time – internships are not always glam“bonus” skills or experience the comorous. Perform even routine tasks. pany is ideally looking for. * Ask questions. Inquire about workplace Even with idyllic qualifications, a basics (“Where should I park?”). It will lessen quality resume, polished interview your anxiety and your supervisor will be skills and a completed internship, new impressed that you are so conscientious. graduates frequently must earn the * Use your manners. Acquire a firm handadvanced job title and spacious corner shake.Learn how to make introductions and office overlooking the city skyline. introduce yourself to coworkers. Learn names “In any industry, entry-level jobs quickly. are mostly [filled by] those straight out * Mind your word choices. While “cool” may of college,” Forrester said. “The more be acceptable on campus, it tells people you detailed, specialized jobs go to those aren’t professional material. who have been in the field for an * Look for role models. Observe the culture extended period of time.” Don’t be discouraged. As Forrester of the people around you and match it. pointed out, your experience level will rise every day, and, with it, slowly but surely, your chances of advancement will increase.

What’s hot and what’s not: Fall trends look big and ruffly all is here, and with it comes new fashion. With cooler weather right around the corner, it is time to revamp your closet and get ready for the season. As college students, you may find yourself jumping out of bed and grabbing whatever is easiest to throw on, however, your outfit may be a fashion “don’t.” ZAYLE Do not get caught in an old hoodie GRIFIIN with a skirt or a pair of shorts, this is a major “don’t” because it confuses the seasons. Ugg boots and miniskirts are also a big no-no – it’s like mixing vinegar and water. And as the air gets crisper it is also time to get rid of your summer sandals. Not ready to throw your summer clothes completely out? Bringing summer into fall is as easy as layering. “Sleeveless dresses can be transitioned if worn with sweaters or tights,” said Emily Korman, owner of A. Hooper clothing store. Love your white jeans? Forget about everything you thought you knew and wear white after Labor Day. Keep your skinny jeans to tuck into boots – do not be caught trying to stuff straight leg or boot cut jeans into them. Long shirts and babydolls are also out this fall, as well

as low cut shirts and popped collars. “Jewel toned, tailored suits, chunky sweaters and plaids are in for fall,” said Korman. This season it is all about the feminine touch. Lace, leather and faux fur are all fall staples. Pair these with chunky jewelry, oversized clutches, thick heels and printed tights. Do not be afraid to let your inner girly girl shine: be caught in bows, ruffles, puffy sleeves and pencil skirts. Keep your men’s suiting inspiration as well; they’re still very big this year. The bigger the better for fall, and that includes the head. Skip the excessive flat ironing and makes friends with

the curling iron; big sexy hair is in. And don’t forget to accessorize with big jewelry and hats, as well as a noticeable scarf or two. “Checkered scarves are a must have for fall,” said Amber Sanders, a freshman international business major. Put away the brights; this fall it is all about black, brown, camel, red, purple, greens, berry colors and metallics. At what price do these fashions come? With so many college students trying to save money, it can be hard to stay in style. However, there are many places that offer the latest styles at low prices. Target is a great place to look. The store even includes high-end designers who create special lines for the retailer. And then there’s the mall. Stores like Forever 21, Charlotte Russe, Agaci Too and Windsor also offer fall’s hottest styles for prices that won’t break the bank and are located at malls across the area. Perhaps one of the best money-saving efforts is using what’s already in your closet. Layer old sweaters with necklaces and bracelets and you’ve got the look that you are fashion savvy. Remember to keep things big and flashy, yet sophisticated and feminine at the same time. Zayle Griffin is a junior mass communication major and is a staff writer for The Rambler.

Sports

The Rambler

Quick Quotes “There is nothing wrong with dedication and goals, but if you focus only on yourself, all the lights fade away and you become a fleeting moment in life.” - “Pistol” Pete Maravich Basketball superstar

Upcoming Events Oct. 24 Men’s Golf @ Silvis, Ill., for NAIA Preview International *1:30 p.m. Men’s Baseball vs. Cisco Junior College Oct. 25 1 p.m. Men’s Soccer @ College of the Southwest 3 p.m. Women’s Soccer @ College of the Southwest Men’s Golf @ Silvis, Ill., for NAIA Preview International Oct. 27 5 p.m. Women’s Soccer @ Houston Baptist 7 p.m. Men’s Soccer @ Houston Baptist Oct. 28 7 p.m. Women’s Volleyball @ Paul Quinn * denotes home game

Sports Briefs Lady Rams stay in hunt Oct. 18 The women’s soccer team stayed eligible for the regular season conference title with a 5-0 win over Huston-Tillotson University. The team is tied with UT-Brownsville and Northwood University, who have one loss in conference play. If the three remain tied, the regular season title will be decided based on goal differential against conference opponents. Ram soccer suffers 4-0 loss Oct. 18 The men’s soccer team suffered a 4-0 loss against Huston-Tillotson University. The game was marred by 47 fouls and 12 penalty cards. Nine of those were penalized to HustonTillotson, and three were committed by Wesleyan. The team is now 3-3 in conference play. Volleyball team goes 2-1 in conference action Oct. 18 The volleyball team dropped their first game to Wiley College in four games, but rebounded with a pair of wins over Texas College and Jarvis Christian College in three games each. Destiny Clemmons led all players with 11 kills, Evoni Darling led all players with 26 assists, and Kristin Venhuizen went on a service attack, posting a career high. Lady Rams sweep day Oct. 18 The volleyball team won both matches in action at the conference crossover tournament. The Lady Rams defeated UTBrowsville and HustonTillotson.

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

October 22, 2008 5

No helmet, no pads, no problem Rugby breeds toughness and brotherhood at Wesleyan’s law school His leadership has been highlighted by the recruitment of Bank of Texas to sponsor the team, and improved performance on the field. The team recently amassed a 60-0 victory over the Texas Alliance Club, who Wesleyan has traditionally struggled against. “We have been really lucky over the past couple of seasons with players,” Bleibdrey said. “The 2007 class provided several quality guys, which is huge because we are entirely at the mercy of incoming classes to filter in good athletes who are open to playing.” Although the program has taken off, recruiting and motivating players has remained the biggest challenge for Bleibdrey. “Law students are so busy that sometimes they don’t think they have reasons or time to play,” Bleibdrey said. “We try to let the team mentality take over and show guys that we can help each other accomplish great things. All the school work and rugby may seem like too much for the average student, but according to Bleibdrey, the sport provides an outlet to just kick back and relax as well. “After matches, the home team is responsible for hosting the visitors at someone’s house or a pub,” Bleibdrey said. “We strengthen the ties with other clubs so that we have people to regularly compete against.” Due to the “full contact” nature of rugby, the historic campus does not recognize the team as an official club or intramural activity of the school. Rugby is specifically considered hazardous under the university’s current insurance plan, according to Dean of Students

BRYCE WILKS SPORTS EDITOR

Attorney Nick Pugh sits in his Stephenville office just a few years after graduating from Wesleyan law school and, for the most part, focuses on his work. Sometimes, though, his mind drifts from the cases on his desk, and his attention turns to the happenings of a blossoming area sport that he loves to play and promote. Just 90 minutes away in downtown Fort Worth, Bryan Bleibdrey also endures the grind that a career in law creates. The senior law student manages to make time between work and study sessions to organize and run a club that competes in his favorite sport, rugby. It may seem odd that two men of such focus would be concerned with a game, but for them, rugby is more than a game. It’s the kind of sport that they say has infiltrated their lives and become part of who they are. Pugh defines a common link that connects his profession to his passion. “Rugby mirrors law school in a lot of ways,” Pugh said. “They are both extremely intense, so it’s a natural fit for law students to enjoy the game.” Pugh founded the Wesleyan Law rugby club in 2005 and has watched participation Courtesy of Rachel Flatt grow from five individuals the first year to Rugby has a fusion of styles and skills, evidenced by about 20 team members now. Wesleyan’s law school club. Players must be tough and fast He was first intrigued by rugby as a senior in order to compete against more experienced teams. at the University of Texas when he saw a game on campus and had a “Hey, that looks interesting” moment. He decided to go to New York for law school, and his decision to do so Cary Poole. Bleibdrey argued that while injuries are always a possibility, they are lead him to one of the most rugby-crazy graduate programs in the nation, generally the exception, not the rule. Albany Law School. “Rules are in place to keep people as safe as possible. It is much like “I got to Albany and realized quickly the influence that the rugby team playing basketball or regular football,” Bleibdrey said. “All of our players had on campus,” Pugh said. “They had an extensive network of players and alumni that were always quick to help out on the field and in the classroom. sign waivers releasing the team or school from liability.” Wesleyan hosts open practices every Thursday at 3:30 p.m. in Rockwood The team was the only reason I made it through that first year.” Park on University Drive, and the team welcomes interested undergraduate Aside from rugby, Pugh wasn’t too fond of some other aspects of life in New York, and decided to return to Texas. Equipped with a wealth of rugby knowledge, he enrolled at Wesleyan and decided after a conversation with friends that the men at Wesleyan school should be able to experience the same camaraderie that he experienced at Albany. Pugh began marketing the idea of a team and saw interest grow quickly. “Rugby is a very socially-oriented sport. It builds relationships by giving guys the feeling that they are going through a battle together,” Pugh said. “Also, rugby prospers in areas with football fans because it is a lot like football but requires very little equipment to play.” As much as rugby resembles American football in rugged and almost brutal style, it differs greatly in the general attitude Courtesy of Rachel Flatt of players. “Scrums” are formations where rugby work gets done. Each team has trench players that bat“Trash talking and egotism is not tolerated in rugby,” tle to gain possession during matches. The team that gains control out of the scrum still has an Pugh said. “This is a gentleman’s game, and the team comes entire field to advance the ball before they can score. above all else.” That attitude has been passed on to current captain, Bleibdrey. When students. They compete in matches on the weekends against clubs from universiPugh graduated and went to pursue a career, he left the team in what have ties and organizations across Texas and Oklahoma, usually at nearby turned out to be capable hands. “Bryan has done a great job of forming the program to what I thought Gateway Park. Bleibdrey is open to all inquiries from interested staff and students and and hoped it could be,” Pugh said. Bleibdrey’s attraction to rugby also began as an undergraduate student at can be contacted at bbleibdrey@gmail.com. Those looking for a casual hobby should probably refrain from interest Baylor. He participated in club rugby for four years and has played for other in the sport. The same intoxicating appeal that has gripped Bleibdrey, Pugh clubs. and many others could get anyone hooked on rugby for life.

Scissor kick: HALEY BUTLER CONTRIBUTING WRITER

While other seniors are feeling exhausted with school and ready to graduate, senior Lady Rams Soccer player Stefanie Blowers is working to achieve two accomplishments of a lifetime. College wasn’t in the plans for Blowers after high school graduation and she wanted to pursue a cosmetology career. While working to get her cosmetology license, she realized how much she missed playing soccer, which had always been a big part of her life. “I missed playing soccer, and I remembered the Wesleyan soccer coach trying to recruit me in high school,” Blowers said. “I contacted him and made the decision to go to college and get a degree.” Many things drew her to Wesleyan, she said, but its size and soccer program topped the list. “I like that it is so small and everyone knows everyone,” Blowers said. Texas Wesleyan has been a very exciting learning experience for Blowers. “As a senior, I like just being a leader in

Senior Stefanie Blowers delayed one dream to pursue a path towards soccer and a college degree

general,” Blowers said. “We only have three other seniors and it’s very exciting to get to show the underclassmen how important and how much fun college soccer is.” Blowers shares the role of leadership with other seniors Danielle Parks, Brianna McKernon and goalkeeper Brittany O’Brian. Together, they have led the team to first place in the Red River Conference. The team is currently tied with Northwood and UT-Brownsville for first place. Regular season success has sparked hopes among Blowers and others for the post season. With playoffs in the near future, Blowers is optimistic about what the season’s outcome will be. “I feel that our team still has a lot of exciting games left and that we should be at our best right when we need to, during playoffs,”she said. Blowers has plans after graduation to use her cosmetology degree to work in a salon and eventually open a place of her own, but she will stay true to her roots. “Of course, she said, “I will still play soccer.”

Photo by Jose Valdez

Stefanie Blowers has helped lead the women’s soccer team to the top of conference standings this season. They are currently tied with UT-Brownsville and Northwood.

Entertainment

6 October 22, 2008

The Rambler

This Little Light of Mine...

Art, curator of the gallery, explained. “The colors seen are truly a representation of the personalities of the artists commonly featured here at the Firehouse,” he said. In reference to a particular piece that consisted of hundreds of various paint can lids, Art said that you could see so much about who the artist, and the gallery, really is. Although the main focus of the Firehouse is the art they create and display, that is The Firehouse, a neighborhood art gallery in east Fort Worth, is certainly not their dedicated to uniting the community through culture and creativity goal. As natives of the area, Thomson -By Ryan Authier and Art share the common ambition of n today’s world, there are obviously unlimited elements that overshadow the importance of uniting the commuart. What is art anyway? A couple of pictures on the wall or some rusty old obelisk? Maybe nity under the that’s what our university was thinking when they did away with the major. No doubt the umbrella of the art question was asked: in what ways does art contribute to our society? world. Well I think art is our society. Maybe not the definition of us, but at least the representaThe policy of tion. Works of art symbolize culture and give transcending significance to a group of people. the gallery is cerIn Wesleyan’s own backyard, less than two miles away from the main campus, is the Firehouse tainly an open door Art Studio and Gallery, a historical venue that states its purpose is to unite the community one. Anyone who through the medium of art. wishes to display art The building that the Firehouse calls home has served a variety of purposes in its tenured may do so, and anyhistory. Built in the 1920s by prominent Fort Worth architect Wiley G. Clarkson, the building one who wishes to was originally Station No. 20 for the Fort Worth Fire Department and was so for nearly 60 view art may do so Photo by Ryan Authier years. Since the 1980s, the building, as well. But the Owner Lori Thompson (left) and curator Joe Art share a passion which sits at the intersection of Firehouse goes even for artistic expression, seen in their dedication to the local gallery. Meadowbrook and Oakland, has further beyond this. been a church, wedding chapel, phoAs a very enthusiastic Art explained, two days each week, certain potentially at-risk stutography studio and now the dents from Meadowbrook Middle School take part in art classes put on voluntarily by Firehouse Art Studio (www.firethe Firehouse. houseart.net). “These kids need more than what school offers, and a time set aside each week to The art displayed at the allow them to free their minds and encourage open creativity is exactly what they Firehouse isn’t what might be classineed,” said Art. fied as “typical,” but then again what Given a chance to look through some of the pieces the kids created, I can attest that art is? At first look, one might think the program is working. the paintings displayed on the wall In addition to the middle school art program, the Firehouse also reaches out in variare relatively tame for a private ous other ways. Yoga workouts, meditation sessions, community meetings, a summer gallery in east Fort Worth: mountain art camp and a number of volunteer classes utilize the gallery a regular basis in an ranges, soaring eagles, grassy fields. attempt to reach out to the community. All very pretty, but perhaps someOne major project which the Firehouse has undertaken the past few years is particiwhat docile. pation in V-Day, a global movement to end violence against women and girls. V-Day However, you will be alerted to Fort Worth, which Wesleyan has hosted in years past, is accompanied by a production the fact that what is up now isn’t the of the Vagina Monologues as well as other themed events, including the Firehouse’s Firehouse’s normal display. In fact, Vulva Art Show. The event as a whole raises thousands for domestic violence preventhat is one of the neat things about tion, so keep an eye out for it next spring. this gallery: anyone who wants to Contrary to what some will have you believe, art has significant value in today’s display their art can display their art ever-dwindling society, and the Firehouse stands as a symbol of this. Kit Hall, professor (currently the main room is being of art and humanities at Texas Wesleyan, hopes to see more community galleries arise lent to the East Side Creative Arts over the years. Club). “[Smaller galleries] stand on the idea of community outreach and allow people to As Lori Thomson, the owner of see how art reflects their culture,” she said. “They’re less intimidating than major musethe Firehouse, pointed out to me on Photo by Ryan Authier ums and therefore welcome more conversation and curiosity about the art presented.” a particular visit, to see something It is in times like these, when communities feel scattered and lost, that we need art The Dance, an acrylic painting by Fort Worth native Pam more typical of the Firehouse, look more than ever. Rather than doing away with programs and majors, we should embrace Stern, is a typical fixture in the Firehouse’s gallery. in the restroom. Generally speaking, the contributions that the art world has made. As the Firehouse Web site states, “[We the last thing I think of when visiting the lavatory is chiaroscuro shading techniques, however come] together to offer the neighborhood something fresh and challenging - to light the this is yet another feature of the gallery. Each month or so, a specific artist gets the privilege of embers of creativity in the community.” displaying their work in the, yes, restroom. If only we could all see with such a light. The most immediate impact the gallery will have on any visitor is the vast amount of color. Personally, I was taken aback by the vividness of the atmosphere. The aptly named Joe Ryan Authier is a senior psychology major and is entertainment editor for The Rambler.

Wednesday On Campus:

L OOK

Off Campus: *Janet Jackson: American Airlines Center, 8 p.m.

*Open Mic Night: Louella Baker Martin Pavilion, 7:30 p.m.

Friday Off Campus:

Sunday Off Campus:

* WorldFest: Addison Circle Park, noon

*Doubt: Addison Theatre Centre, 2 p.m.

*Alanis Morisette: Nokia Theatre, 8 p.m.

* Randy Travis: Nokia Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

Monday

*Dinner and Poetry: Garden Cafe, 7:30 p.m. Weekly Movie Releases: Saw V; Pride and Glory; High School Musical 3: Senior Year

Off Campus:

*Academy of St. Martin in the Fields: SMU’s Caruth Auditorium, 8 p.m.

Tuesday On Campus:

Wesleyan Playmarket

Theatre Wesleyan invites all students for a shot at Broadway CHUCK FAIN

*Hsynyi Wang: Martin Hall, 7:30 p.m.

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

Off Campus:

On Campus:

*Baptist Student Ministry: Sid *The Rambler staff meeting: Stella Russell Hall lobby, Richardson Building, noon, 12:15 p.m. free lunch served

AHEAD Saturday

Thursday

* Chapel Service: Poly UMC, 12:15 p.m. Off Campus: Weekly DVD Releases: Journey to the Center of the Earth; Hell Ride; Kit Kittredge; National Lampoon’s Animal House

STAFF WRITER

Ever have the urge to write a play and have it produced in New York? Well, fellow Wesleyan alumni and students, this is your chance. Now in its ninth year, Playmarket is approaching once again. Playmarket is a chance for student and alumni playwrights to workshop their plays through formal/staged public readings. The scripts go before a committee, and the winner is chosen for the Wesleyan theater department to workshop. Playmarket has long since taken place at Wesleyan, but in May 2007, Playmarket was produced at 37 Arts, an off-Broadway venue in New York. Texas Wesleyan theater students, faculty and alumni all gathered and flew to the Big Apple for the reading, spending five days in New York.

“The educational experience gained from this trip was invaluable,” Erica Heebner told Wesleyan Magazine after participating. “Not only were we given the opportunity to perform on an offBroadway stage, but we were able to meet with alumni who are living in the city and constantly working on their craft.” Last year, Playmarket moved back to its home at the Thad Smotherman Theatre in the Law Sone Fine Arts Building, but this year Theatre Wesleyan is taking Playmarket back to New York. All Wesleyan students and alumni are welcome to enter their new and original full length and/or one act plays. Playwrights can submit a maximum of two different scripts to the contest. The deadline is Dec. 1, and no electronic submissions are accepted. For a full list of guidelines, search “playmarket” at www.txwes.edu.