The Rambler, Vol. 101 No. 8 by The Rambler

The Rambler

The students’ voice since 1917

Fort Worth, Texas

November 12, 2008

Vol. 101, No. 10

NEWS BRIEFS Moving on up to the south side West Library Sale Scholastic Books are halfprice during a sale in the Orientation Room on the first floor of the library. All books, games, posters and trinkets are half off the list price, so consider shopping for young ones you know. The sale is open 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Nov. 17 through Nov. 20 and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 21. WEMS The Wesleyan community has enhanced its automated communication technology with the launch of Wesleyan Emergency Management System. Access to the system is available at the historic campus, the law campus, and in Burleson. In case of an emergency, time sensitive information can now reach students, faculty and staff in a safe and secure manner. WEMS asks that everyone log into the database to provide their contact information. Once registered, information can be sent directly to your phone. Flag Football Didn’t get to enter a sevenon-seven flag football team? Contact Assistant Dean of Students Aaron Whaley to enlist your team for the upcoming four-onfour league. Games will be starting soon. Game times and scheduling to be announced. Contact awhaley@txwes.edu or (817) 531-4871. The Menaechmus Twins

Wesleyan bookstore set to move location next semester ALYSSUM POWER STAFF WRITER

Ever felt like the university bookstore could use an upgrade, maybe some more space and more material? Well it seems you’ve got your wish. Texas Wesleyan’s bookstore is scheduled to open in its new location at 3008 East Rosedale in February. The new location is currently owned by Townside and was once home to Mods 5 & 10 store. It is part of an old strip center across the street from campus that is being redeveloped through a partnership between Wesleyan and the city of Fort Worth. The new location is designed with high ceilings, windows and 3,500 square feet of space, almost double the size of the current location in the Sid Richardson Building. The increased space will allow for more displays loaded with more merchandise. “Moving the university’s bookstore will anchor change in the area,” said Steve Roberts, associate vice president for human resources at Wesleyan. “It will open the area up for more active retail essentially benefiting the area.” Students like Christina Rueda, a junior mass communication major, look forward to the change. “I think the bookstore moving is a good idea,” said Rueda. “Most university bookstores have a wider selection, and we should too.” Photo by Gasten Schoonover The use of the bookstore’s current location is undecided at this time, The new bookstore will move into a bigger location, allowing a more comfortable administrators said. purchase. Follet will soon have 3,500 square feet of space to hold their inventory.

Common links, common goals and common sense Learning Communities bond freshmen with each other, faculty and university TIARA NUGENT

Allen Henderson to obtain a Title III grant from the U.S. Department of Education. Wesleyan received the funding in October of last year. Learning Communities are increasing in popularity at colleges and universities across the nation, said Roark. The societies vary in composition, as some campuses build their learning

At Wesleyan, each community consists of EDITOR IN CHIEF 18 students enrolled in a freshman success class (also known as GST) in addition to two academAs the arid summer drew to a close and the ic classes. This fall, students had the choice of collegiate portals swung open, 206 freshmen either English 1301 and a religion class or the interspersed Texas Wesleyan’s campus. combination of Intermediate Algebra and a busiAlthough all were greeted with the personalized ness course to satisfy the academic requirement. attention and instruction Wesleyan is In order to set students up for success, reputed for, intimidation was not elimithe three-member faculty team compared nated. Following academic advising sestheir syllabi prior to the start of the semessions, 92 of those students accepted ter to avoid exams and major projects placement in a pilot track of Wesleyan’s being due on the same day. Learning Community. In addition, faculty also avoided Designed to aid freshmen’s transition scheduling the 8 a.m. class slots when posfrom the narrow halls of high school to sible. the widespread college campus, Learning With the help of strategic course timCommunities join diverse groups of stuings and particulars, Joe Brown, director dents by placing three common on their of freshman studies, hopes to create a schedules. Seeing the familiar faces in bonded freshman community that will, in multiple classes helps put the novice colturn, enhance students’ grades. lege students more at ease and build Another goal of instilling Learning friendships. Photo by Gasten Schoonover Communities involves strengthening the “Learning Communities are all about Programs such as Learning Communites and freshman advising rate of freshman retention, said Roark. relationship building – both with peers help those new to college adjust. The office of institutional research reportand faculty – and student success,” said ed freshman retention was 63 percent this Debbie Roark, director of grants and research. communities within specific majors while others fall, as compared to the 70 percent small, private The program’s debut at Wesleyan is a result take the linked courses approach by coordinat- universities typically land. of Roark’s collaborative effort with provost ing course content. See Learning, page 2

Lady Rams atop the RRAC

Theatre Wesleyan and director Connie WhittLambert present this classic Roman comedy of mistaken identity. Showtimes are at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 1315 and Nov. 20-22. in the Thad Smotherman Theatre. There will also be a 2 p.m. performance on Nov. 23.

The element of freshman retention TIARA NUGENT EDITOR IN CHIEF

Guardians of the Shears Congratulations to the newly-elected Guardians. Founded in 1938, Golden Shears is one of Wesleyan’s oldest traditions recognizing students for their academic and extracurricular leadership. New Members: Elizabeth Fleagle Kent Halliburton Britni Hollar Amber Rayhorn Claudia Rojero

Early warning:

Courtesy of Jose Valdez

The newly-crowned champions of the RRAC defeated rival Northwood University to earn their spot in the NAIA national tournament, which will be held Nov. 22. The opponent and location are yet to be determined. Page 5

Wesleyan is working hard at one of its main goals: getting freshmen to stay in school. Over the course of the fall 2008 semester, the university increased publicity of and expanded its still young Early Warning Intervention Program. “Studies say that within the first three weeks of school students decide whether to come back [the next semester],” said Dr. Kathy Prater, director of freshman advising. “We have to reach them early.” Around the third week of the semester, every faculty member on campus received an early warning form via e-mail. Prater encouraged the faculty to complete the form for any student displaying “at-risk behaviors.” Several typical behaviors of a struggling student were identified on the form, including being habitually late to class, excessive absences, sleeping in class and failure to complete homework. Students appearing preoccupied, overwhelmed or anxious also arouse alarm. A letter explaining the program and its goals accompanied the form. Prater reminded that faculty is the first line of defense for students at risk of dropping out of college. “When I first started in freshmen advising we had a freshman retention rate of around 50 percent,” said Prater. This fall, the freshman retention rate hovered at 63 percent.

See Warning, page 2

Opinions

College Life

The election is over. The people are in place. What now? Page 3

GST class produces a documentary to be shown at 2009 orientation after conducting an eggs-periment. Page 4

News

November 12, 2008

A new wave of investigative journalism: Focusing on the law and ethical principle

Malone is heavily involved with the “Light of Day Project” and Freedom of Information Foundation of Texas, SPORTS EDITOR which both help student journalists use laws to obtain pubPulitzer Prize-winning journalist Dan Malone paid a lic records. Aside from currently teaching at Tarleton State visit to Wesleyan to educate mass communication students University, Malone is a writer for the Fort Worth Weekly. He in the lecture hall of McFadden Science Building Nov. 5. Topics of Malone’s lecture ranged from the purpose of is one of two Pulitzer winners on staff for the publication, which is circulated for free on campus and around the city. current newspapers, to the hope he holds He enjoys the freedom that an alterfor the next generation of college journalnative weekly newspaper creates for him ists. and other staff members. “No other media outlet possesses the “The Weekly can report news that resources and power of the daily newspadaily newspapers can’t because they are per,” Malone said. “It is my hope that afraid of lawsuits,” Malone said. “We can papers will overcome current obstacles always support our news with sources and and continue delivering news to the pubare a very credible publication.” lic.” With experience studying and Such obstacles have been imposed by reporting about law issues, Malone briefly Internet sources, whether credible or not, spoke about the Jeanne Clery Act, which that have made news attainable at the requires universities to disclose informaclick of a mouse. tion about crime on and near their respecCirculation for daily newspapers has tive campuses. suffered, resulting in a lack of advertising He encourages students in colleincome and therefore, a shortage in true giate journalism programs to make sure reporting. laws like the Clery Act are followed on This, Malone feels, is to America’s campus. detriment. Malone said better in-depth According to the Association of reporting could help make the public In what started as a survey on Alternative Newsweeklies, Malone won more aware of the issues facing the coun- death row put out by the Dallas his Pulitzer in 1992 with partner Lorraine try. Morning News, Malone translates Adams while working for the Dallas “After 9/11, the media got too soft the findings in America’s Morning News. The pair published a and stopped digging into government Condemned, co-authored by series that reported widespread abuses of Howard Swindle. matters,” Malone said. power by Texas law enforcement agenIt’s that digging, he said, that can cies. truly inform the American public. Malone lives with his wife on a ranch near Stephenville, “Maybe reporters could have noticed trends that have led us to our current financial crisis and made the public and said he continues to practice ethical investigative journalism and hopes to inspire students to do the same. more aware,” he said.

BRYCE WILKS

Warning, from page 1 Attribution of this significant increase over just five years goes to programs like the specialized freshman academic advising, GST classes and Early Warning Intervention. When the freshman advising team receives an early warning form, assistant director of advising Ashley Milligan gives the student a phone call to ask how the semester is going. The student is also reminded of the support services available in the ARC. If several early warning forms come in for the same student, the advising team will contact them more frequently. “It’s about getting a connection,” said Prater. “It’s letting them know there’s someone there who cares and can let them know where on campus they can get the help they need.” During the last spring semester, forms were submitted for 59 at-risk students, according to Milligan. Around the time of midterm exams, the advising team had received forms for 128 students. Prater attributes this growth in numbers to increased faculty participation in the program. Early Warning Intervention began five years ago under the direction of Prater. Originally designed to save academically floundering freshmen, Early Warning broadened to include struggling upperclassmen. Forms for these upperclassmen are forwarded to the student’s academic adviser.

The Rambler 2

Learning, from page 1 Learning Communities are one of several initiatives the university is offering to freshman to continue, and ultimately finish, their collegiate education at Wesleyan. Although it is too soon to determine whether Learning Communities will help the university realize its long-term goal of increased retention, the current measure of success is being researched. Dr. Carol Gerendas Johnson, visiting assistant professor of English, created a blog for the English classes in the Learning Communities. The site provides an avenue for students to give anonymous feedback. “Being in a learning community has really helped,” an unidentified student wrote. “It [gives] us other students who are going through the same problems and questions. It gives us someone to talk to and to study with … Being a college freshman is tough, but being in a learning community helps with the transition.” In their commentary, many students offered thoughtful pointers for the program itself and submitted advice to current and potential Learning Community members. “I have noticed that once we get into class we go to familiar people and we don’t branch out [to] roommates, teammates, etc.” agreed Bella, another one of Johnson’s bloggers. “I think to actually gain from this learning community you have to split up the ‘cliques’ and develop relationships with more of the class other than your security blanket.” With the “Learning Communities are pilot semester all about relationship building – s u c c e s s f u l l y both with peers and faculty – and winding down, student success.” plans are – Debbie Roark already spinning Director of Grants and Research for the future. Faculty teams hope to augment the points of success, eliminate kinks and expand the communities to include 150 freshmen. “Next semester will bring new course pairings (sociology and English, psychology and English, religion and fine arts), and we have a great team of professors participating,” said Dr. Stacia Neeley, a GST professor within a Learning Community. In the near future, Neeley said she hopes to see the program use more technology, such as blogs or e-portfolios, and arrange featured events or field trips outside of class to further enhance community learning and to build student confidence. As it stands now, the program is already well on its way to producing poised students determined to reach academic goals. “It makes me feel more secure that I have a whole class that is in the same position as me with my assignments in more than one of my classes,” attested another blogger. “I am just really glad we have Learning Communities here at Texas Wesleyan.”

Texas Wesleyan Business Ethics Teams recently competed at the Texas Independent College Fund Ethics Match at the Worthington Hotel in Fort Worth. Much to the pleasure of team coaches and sponsors, the team represented Wesleyan well by winning more than 50 percent of their matches. Dr. McManus will also be taking the Wesleyan Ethics team to compete in the Intercollegiate Ethics Bown hosted by St. Mary’s University in San Antonio.

Courtesy of Anne Smith

Blue Team: Coach Jan Fersing, Rosemary Smith, Melinda Smith, Dr. Ron McManus, Olivia Hibscher and Justin Payne

Gold Team: Chase Payne, Gary Minor, Michael Smith and sponsor Dr. John Shampton

Opinions

“A research paper for a coaching class and reading two acts for my English class.” “Four or five things at least. One for every class!” “Six things for seminary school -- papers, quizzes and tests.” “Three papers to write.”

Melissa Mills Junior Mass Communication Major

Ross Mullens Alumnus, BA ‘08 Seminary Student

“How many assignments are you currently procrastinating?”

Chamuquin Prince Junior Kinesiology Major Kathy Jean Lynch Junior Religion Major

The Rambler

Separation? A

lthough the punches on my electoral ballot did not line up with the Obama/Biden ticket, I share hope with the rest of America for changes a new administration and era brings our great nation. I do fear, however, that without reform, and not the type that Obama has promised over the past several months, that Americans will continue to flounBRYCE der in our efforts WILKS to prosper. Political correctness now rules over government policies, and each generation that is removed from our founding fathers moves farther and farther away from the principles that America was based upon. The founding fathers, in fact, would scoff at the liberal directions that amendments have pointed their Constitution. America was founded solely as a Christian nation, and the true version of history shows that 52 of the 55 framers of the Constitution professed to be evangelical Christians. Take an entry from George Washington’s diary to illustrate their feelings. Surely the general of colonial armed forces and our first president had a firm grasp on the national feelings towards spirituality. “Let my heart, gracious God, be so affected with your glory and majesty that I may discharge those weighty duties which thou requires of me. Again I have called on thee for pardon and forgiveness and sins for the sacrifice that Jesus Christ offered on the cross for me. Thou gavest thy son to die for me and has given me assurance of salvation.” Well, that’s just one guy, right? What about those who followed him? John Adams, America’s second president spoke of his belief about the founding of our government. “The general principles upon which the fathers achieved independence were the general principles of Christianity. I will avow that I then believed, and now believe that those general principles of Christianity are as eternal

Church and state share solid, permanent bond

as the existence and attributes of God.” What about “Give me liberty or give me death” rebel Patrick Henry? And I quote: “Being a Christian is a character which I prize far above all else this world has or can boast.” The founding fathers even wrote in statutes about who could take office. In Delaware’s original state constitution (ahem, Joe Biden), article 22 said this: “Every person who shall be chosen a member of either house or appointed to any office or place of trust shall make and subscribe to the following proclamation: I do profess faith in God the father and in Jesus Christ his holy son and in the holy ghost, one god, blessed forevermore, and I do acknowledge the holy scriptures of the Old and New Testament to be given by divine inspiration.” Could our vicepresident elect repeat such a vow? The point of all this is that Barack Obama is now in charge of Courtesy of Google Images upholding the Constitution originally written upon the fundamentals of Christianity. Those who say faith has nothing to do with government and politics are not in touch with the history and spirit of our country. I will be supporting our new president in his endeavor to lead us through an economic crisis, war and social meltdown. My hope is that God will bless his time in office and make this become a great season for our nation. I have no doubt that he will lead with passion and direction. My only question: Will he lead us where He wants us to go? Hopefully, our president will have the courage and wisdom to take us not farther away, but closer to where we came from. Bryce Wilks is a senior mass communication major and is sports editor for The Rambler.

Historical election product of American system A

n event of historical proportions has come upon us—one that we probably won’t be able to grasp the magnitude of for some time. The selection of the 44th president of the United States of America has truly shown where the country has gone MARTIN in the past half century. GARCIA The last time the Democratic Party had such a likeable and charismatic fellow in office was when John F. Kennedy occupied the Oval Office. At that time, President-elect Barack Obama would have had to sit on a different side of the bus or drink from another fountain. Now Obama will occupy the same seat, and that speaks volumes of the maturity and development of American society. Election Day is a week or two under our belts now, and the nation can begin to reflect on the events that passed. The first 20-40 minutes after the first polls closed on the East Coast, the data looked staggeringly in favor of Sen. John McCain. Too bad for him a touchdown and a touch point conversion out of Kentucky’s delegates couldn’t hold a lead over Vermont’s field goal. That was the only time that We the people... there was really any sign of a commanding lead throughout the night. Remember four years back when exit polls heavily favored John Kerry at the beginning of election night; networks were ordaining him President Kerry for the first hour and a half, according to Fox News. However, Obama’s exit

polls showed to be a little more accurate than Kerry’s. All of the polls said it. There was no doubt that this man was going to shatter the voting percentage in favor of the last Democratic winner in a presidential election. All of a sudden President Carter’s 50.1 percent seemed pretty miniscule. Any hope for silent voters out of the incumbent party dimmed after about an hour of the results poured through. The calm before the swarm came by way of Missouri, Ohio, Virginia and Florida. Who knows what North Carolina says or if they even have counting machines. If anyone questions the strategy, the answer is clear and couldn’t have been more evident in McCain’s concession speech: President-elect Obama “achieved the will of the American vote.” Juan Williams of Fox News noted the astounding increase in black and younger voters this year, not to mention the 40 percent increase of new voters under 30. The powers of the minority vote create possibility, and if you have never considered that concept, believe it. It just happened. President-elect Obama is an engaging human being that nulled any ideas of radical belief

DECIDED 2008

against him. Almost a quarter million people wouldn’t have jam-packed Grant Park to merely witness a speech. Even Bruce Springsteen himself couldn’t round up that many people if he tried. It used to be money that milked politics until emotion was thrown in the mix. Like Obama noted in his acceptance speech, “The dream of our founders is alive.” We are a nation that stands united amidst controversy and looks out for her best interests above all else. Courtesy of Google Images To the winners on election night, congratulations on a brilliantly executed campaign. To the ones who fell short, chin up; our structure allows you to take another stab at it in four years. The nation is built on an established system that works. There has been such a controversial division because of the decision that it’s frightening. Belief in the system and its method is necessary to ensure success. “No association means more than being an American,” McCain said on Nov. 4. “We never hide from history; we make history.” America, history has been made, and it’s time now more than ever to unite and demonstrate an ability to persevere as one. The world needs it, the country needs it, and you need it. Martin Garcia is a senior literature major and is news editor for The Rambler.

Rambler Ratings

The Rambler 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

November 12, 2008 3

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 kind security officer who gave a student a ride to his car during a rainstorm.

Thumbs up to the women’s soccer team for winning their conference title.

Thumbs down to the rising cost of living.

Thumbs up to those who get flu shots.

4 November 12, 2008

College Life

The Rambler

Eggs-cellent teamwork Freshmen discover the power of teamwork TIARA NUGENT EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Photos by Ann Smith

Dr. Greg Gullion’s GST class tests their egg-catching creations during a class exercise building camraderie and teamwork.

Up two flights of stairs, around the corner and down the hall of Polytechnic United Methodist Church, laughter, rambunctious chatter, teasing and sometimes even dire commotion absconded from room 211 every Tuesday and Thursday morning of the fall 2008 semester. Inside that humble classroom, 14 freshman students and the professor they call outstanding have fashioned a tight troupe of friends. Relationships, however, are not all the comrades built. Instructor Greg Gullion decided to deviate from the norms of a freshman success class and experiment with projects that would emphasize team-building, friendships and student interaction. One of the class’ unique endeavors incorporated an experiment that combined raw eggs, gravity and Guillon’s open, second-story office window. Prior to the merry exercise, the students split into small teams to scrounge around the church crannies for random matter to construct containers. The goal, according to Gullion, was to build a device that could safely catch an egg thrown from a second-story window while enforcing the importance of strong teamwork. The results proved to be quite “exotic,” and yielded sometimes surprising results. Who would have guessed that a basket made of hangers and duct tape could catch an egg mess-free? The class’ most significant venture was one whose impact will be felt far beyond the boundaries of their cohesive circle and long after Poly 211 is void of their jolly company. Over the span of a couple of class periods, the 14 collegiate colleagues filmed a documentary that will be shown at the fall 2009 freshman orientation. Nick Demetre, a political science major, claimed credit for the initial idea, but graciously gave kudos to his female counterparts for developing and running the show. “Our film is about what not to do when you come into college,” explained Cathy Nguyen, a major in biology. Topics such texting while in class, mouthing off

to professors, negative study habits and overdosing in wild parties were addressed. Time management, a subject that has had much emphasis in their class time discussions, took the theme. The student actors advised the upcoming class of 2013 to regulate the time spent on the Internet – especially Facebook and Myspace – as well as television and video games. Recording took place on the second floor of PUMC. Each set was brainstormed then creatively and resourcefully crafted to fit the enactment of the harmful habits college students are tempted to fall into. Staging a “realistic” party scene called for so much din, two faculty members and staff poked their heads in the door to ensure all was under control. Controlled unruliness indeed ruled the domain, with two girls on a couch leaning over an allegedly passed out Demetre. “It was hilarious and so much fun to make,” laughed Demetre. As their semester together winds down, Gullion’s freshmen clan paused to reflect on the lessons, fun and experiences of GST. Unanimously, the class voted that the GST course is important and helpful to all students straight out of high school. “Freshmen should go to GST with a positive mindset – they’ll get more out of it than they think,” Nguyen assured. All agreed, however, that certain specifications were crucial to the benefits and enjoyable course. “With Greg we come in here, relax and talk about our problems and how to solve them,” said Demetre. “It’s been great.” Foster inputted that GST should be a fun time to learn about yourself and adapt to college without added stress from assignments, a statement to which many heads nodded. “I loved this group of guys, and I’ll miss all of you,” Gullion declared. “Working together, we’ve all definitely learned a lot.” “Including to not try catching an egg behind your back,” Foster added as the friendly jokes, memories and laughter carried on.

coffee: where to go for a tasty brew

offee. It is truly the lifeblood of any college student. Whether waking up for an 8 a.m. class, getting ready to pull an all-nighter or waking up for an 8 a.m. class after just pulling an all-nighter in which you also drank coffee, this magical god-send has truly become a staple in our collegiate careers. With coffee having become such a GASTEN staple, I would think there would be SCHOONOVER some better choices out there. In this day and age there is a Starbucks on every corner, and quite frankly, I’m a little tired of it. Now don’t get me wrong, their frapa-ma-chinos and super-sized mocha whach-ya-macall-its in sizes whose names are confusing (I mean honestly, small, medium and large will do just fine) aren’t that bad, but there is better out there folks. And besides, their regular coffee tastes like it was brewed with a toilet. My all time favorite coffee house and the absolute best coffee around is Eurotazza, located at 6323 Camp Bowie Suite 125. Their coffee is just the bee’s knees. Local owner Keira Moody believes that, “there is an art to espresso that we’ve lost in the translation,” and let me tell you, her dedication to the cup really shines through. My first time there, I was drinking a Belgium Caffé Mocha, and as I got closer and closer to the bottom of the cup I noticed that the foam that was draped over the coffee and was sticking to the sides of the cup. I’m not talking about a little residue either, it was a sheet of foam on all sides. Out of curiosity, I went and talked to the owner about this and asked her why it was different from other lattes I have had. She told me that in Europe, the way lattes are made gives them a wet foam as opposed to the dry foam that 99 percent of American coffee houses have. She wanted to give Fort Worth a sampling of real coffee straight from Europe, and by going the extra mile, Eurotazza really does produce a superior cup of coffee. In addition to their marvelous coffee, they also have imported teas, delicious assortments of lunch, dinner and

desert items from a local bistro and gelato. Go take a look at them at www.eurotazza.com and while on their site, make sure to read the owner’s section about “why Eurotazza?” It really shows the dedication put into this business and tells a lot about the creation of it. Another good place to get a cup of joe is Four Star Coffee Bar at 3324 West 7th Street. It’s a little hard to find, so I suggest looking it up on one of the online map programs or your snazzy GPS system. If you can find the place, you’re in for a treat. Four Star has many great coffees and lattes to choose from and boasts a rather large assortment of teas, a whole wall of them in fact. For regulars to the establishment, they even have a little shelf where you can place your favorite coffee cup and have it whenever you’re in for a cup. While sipping at your favorite brew, take a look at the artwork displayed throughout the shop or borrow a book from their collection. They boast late hours (till midnight on Friday and Saturday) and live music on the weekends. It’s a pretty awesome place for some late night studying or for a relaxing reprieve any time of the day. The last place to go has several locations riddled throughout the Metroplex and the United States. Yes, it is corporate, but they haven’t really “sold out” so to speak. How could they? It’s The Waffle House. Photo by Tiara Nugent Now I know what you’re thinking, but hear me out. It may not be the nicest establishment or have the most “apt” employees, but the food is pretty good and the coffee isn’t bad. Actually, to tell the truth, if you’re nice, and the staff there likes you, you’re liable to get free coffee. Now if you are looking for a latte or something exotic, do not go here. Period. And definitely don’t ask for something like that, because you will get funny looks from the staff and the regulars … and yes, there are regulars – very, very interesting regulars. You’ll have to go there and see for yourself to know what I’m talking about, but it is a laugh and an experience, so try it out.

Hail your chance for fame.

I’ve got to say, it’s nice to be able to go and have a cup of good coffee and a waffle in the same place. They actually have a large assortment of foods there. It’s all pretty good, and, yes, it is clean. I know that The Waffle House has a bad rap, but it really is undeserved. They have great food at great prices (the All-Star Special is more than most can eat and costs around $5. Oh, and while you’re there, make sure to play one of their signature songs on the jukebox. I would suggest There are Raisins in my Toast or Waffle House Waffles, I Love You. These are some really great places to go and unwind, cram for a test, hang out with some friends or even take a date. Try them one or try them all. Whatever you choose, I’m sure you’ll feel better for that all-nighter. Gasten Schoonover is a senior business major and is photo editor for The Rambler.

Publish your writtern or photographic works in The Rambler. twurambler@yahoo.com

The Rambler

Sports

Quick Quote “Men forget everything; women remember everything. That's why men need instant replays in sports. They've already forgotten what happened.” - Rita Rudner Actress/Comedian

Upcoming Events Nov. 12 *7 p.m. JV Men’s Basketball vs. Trinity Valley Community College

Courtesy of Jose Valdez

Members of the men’s soccer team came out painted in support Nov. 8 at Martin Field.

Nov. 15 TBA Volleyball @ RRAC Conference Tournament *3 p.m. JV Men’s Basketball vs. Tyler Junior College *6 p.m. Women’s Basketball vs. Philander Smith College Nov. 17 *5:30 p.m. Women’s Basketball vs. Hardin Simmons Nov. 18 7 p.m. Men’s Basketball @ UT-Arlington * denotes home game

Sports Briefs

Eagles outrun Rams and Lady Rams Nov. 9 The men’s basketball team suffered a 76-63 loss at Oklahoma Christian University. Forward Chris Berry led all scorers with 24 points. The women’s team also dropped their contest, 71-57. Brittany Turner led the Rams with 12 points, while Brittany Davenport added 11. Rams fall in semi-finals Nov. 7 The men’s soccer team saw its season come to a close with a 2-0 loss to top-seeded UT-Brownsville in conference tournament semifinal action. Senior Christian Villasenor played his final game and finished his career with two Wesleyan career records. He now tops the list for career goals scored (47) and points (101). Wesleyan table tennis to host tournament Nov. 5 The table tennis program will host the Texas Wesleyan Open Nov. 22 at Sid Richardson Center. For tournament policies and entrance forms, visit http://www.txwes.edu/table tennis/.

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

No doubt: Red River Champs

Win sends ladies to nationals for first time ever

Nov. 14 TBA Volleball @ RRAC Conference Tournament

Volleyball ends regular season on high note Nov. 8 Wesleyan’s volleyball team took a pair of convincing wins on the final day of their regular season. They dispatched Bacone College in straight sets and the blanked Our Lady of the Lake University in non-conference action. Next up is the coference tournament Nov. 14-15 in Austin.

November 12, 2008 5

Courtesy of Jose Valdez

Senior Brianna McKernon (left) scored a goal against Northwood on her way to being named the offensive most valuable player of the tournament.

In front of one of the largest crowds in Martin Field history, the Texas Wesleyan University women’s soccer team took a 2-1 win in the Red River Athletic Conference Tournament final over rival Northwood University. “This was everything a final is supposed to be,” said head coach Josh Gibbs. “Both teams played well enough to win. There was a great crowd, and we came out on top.” Northwood gained the early advantage in the 36th minute when Shanna Grant corralled a rebound off a corner kick and scored. Senior Brianna McKernon took the Soccer Standouts edge off a tense Texas Wesleyan team when she found the back of the net from 30 yards out five Most Valuable Players: minutes later. Offense: Brianna McKernon “I told our three seniors at halftime that they Defense: Brittany O’Brien had to play big, and all three of them were terrific,” Gibbs said. All-Conference: In the 75th minute, Jaimie Romaguera found freshman Diana Lopez who headed in the even- First teamtual game-winner. Alejandra Barrerra The Lady Rams survived several good looks Brianna McKernon from Northwood in the final two minutes. The Christina Zimmerman Knights hit the crossbar, had a shot blocked, Stefanie Blowers and had a shot saved by Wesleyan goalkeeper Kacee Harris Brittany O’Brien. Brittany O’Brien “I am so proud of every single one of these girls,” Gibbs said. “They have worked very Second teamhard for a long time to get to this point.” Dominique Harrison Northwood outshot the Rams 25-8; however, six of the Rams eight shots were on target. O’Brien made nine saves while her counterpart, Ashley Ford had four. O’Brien’s nine saves gave her a new school record 273 in her career, a feat she has accomplished in just three seasons at Wesleyan. The title is the third tournament title for Texas Wesleyan. The Lady Rams also won championships in 2005 and 2006. Their 2008 regular season title was the first in school history. With the win, the Rams advance to the NAIA National Tournament for the first time in program history. Their first round game will be played Nov. 22. The location and opponent in that game are to be determined. First round games are played at home sites with the winners advancing to play in Daytona Beach, Fla. - Josh Lacy, Ramsports.net

Renovations transform look, feel After a year, weight room changes prove to be worthwhile investment es and they take more pride in their workouts. “They are excited to workout with the new equipment, and it has helped STAFF WRITER in motivating them to work harder,” Jeffcoat said. Student Life’s activity coordinator, Aaron Whaley, who was instrumenWesleyan’s students and athletes are putting a lot more iron in their diet tal in the renovation, said he gets the most positive feedback about the new these days. flooring. Not the kind of iron found in food, rather what they “It’s a more cushpump in the weight room on campus, which opened a year ioned foam floor, and ago this month after extensive renovations. that creates a softer fall Alumni Patsy and Marty Clifford were able to raise for dropped weights,” $50,000 in summer 2007 to have new flooring, paint and Whaley said. equipment installed in the room, located on the second floor As evidenced by of Sid Richardson Center. the sign currently Coaches, athletes and students have been hitting the placed in the the mall, weight room more since its renovation. Wesleyan plans to Newer features include nautilus weight machines, free build a $3 million weights and cardio equipment. recreation center on campus in 2009. “The room has more of a basketball feel to it. It is The new center is something that we have all wanted for a long time, set to further the fitand to see it come to fruition is very ness experience for satisfying.” students of the school, – Terry Waldrop but also benefit athletHead men’s basketball coach ic team by providing athletes with more space and state-of-theThere is even a display board for names of those who art equipment. hold lifting records to encourage competition among individ“The new center uals and teams. will help general stuMen’s assistant basketball coach Brennan Shingleton dents by giving them said the changes have helped athletic programs. something to do and “It’s like night and day compared to how it used to be,” bring about more camShingleton said. “Also it feels much bigger and more accespus life,” Waldrop sible.” said. “Hopefully it will Head basketball coach Terry Waldrop said the new encourage more stuweight room especially benefits his team. Photo by Gasten Schoonover dents to stay on cam“The room has more of a basketball feel to it,” Waldrop Members of the baseball team are taking advantage of the newer pus and get involved.” said. “It is something that we have all wanted for a long time, weight equipment in the renovated weight room. Coaches say changes Until then, the and to see it come to fruition is very satisfying.” have motivated athletes to work out more frequently. weight room hours are Baseball coach Michael Jeffcoat has his athletes working noon-8 p.m. Monday through Thursday; noon -5 p.m. Friday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. in the weight room three days a week for two hours a day. He said the equipment is much better and gives his players more choic- Saturday; and closed Sunday.

ANDY CANCHOLA

Entertainment

6 November 12, 2008

The Rambler

Brother from another Mother Land Thatre Wesleyan presents The Menaechmus Twins, a Roman comedy

heatre Wesleyan is preparing for their final performance of the fall the device of mistaken identity played out in a very Seinfeldesque manner. 2008 season, a lively rendition of The Menaechmus Twins written by Plautus’ work has been very influential throughout the years, as he has inspired the Titus Plautus, a playwright of the ancient Roman Republic. Directed by likes of Shakespeare, famous French playwright Moliere and Stephen Sondheim, the musiTheater Chair Connie cal master responsible for such Whitt-Lambert, this verscores a Sweeny Todd, West Side sion of the Roman play Story and Gypsy. Though the text was edited and translated itself is ancient, Plautus’ humor, by renowned author and social commentaries and witty critic, Lionel Casson. word play are on par with what CHUCK Providing an approachone may find in the movies and FAIN able, humorous translatheaters of today. tion, Casson’s work pulls This makes the show the play out of ancient Rome and transports attractive not only because it is an it into present-day vernacular, all while interesting artifact, but also for its attempting to maintain the integrity of the potential to entertain contempooriginal piece. rary audiences with ancient mateMenaechmus of Syracuse (senior theater rial, revealing that humor hasn’t major Michael Kreitzinger) and his faithful changed much in the last two slave (senior theater major Ben Phillips), set thousand years or so. out to find the estranged Menaechmus twin The Menaechmus Twins (senior theater Major Alfredo Martinez), sepopens Nov. 13 with shows through arated from the family at a young age. Nov. 15 and again Nov. 20-22. Landing in Epidamnus, a city known for its Shows are at 7:30 p.m. with an loose morals and loose women, additional matinee at 2 p.m. Nov. Menaechmus of Syracuse doesn’t realize that 23. Tickets are $8 for general he has found the home of his long-lost brothadmission, $6 for Wesleyan faculPhoto by Max Marquez er, even though he is almost immediately ty and staff and $4 for senior citiSenior theater majors Alfredo Martinez (left) andMichael Kreitzinger star as the Menaechmus twins in mistaken for his twin by the wife (senior thezens and all students with a valid Theatre Wesleyan’s fall production. ater major Rene Sarradet), mistress (freshschool ID. man theater major Suzanne Fordering), table The theater box office is companion (sophomore theater major Joy Millard) and father-in-law (senior theater major open 1:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. and one hour before curtain on performance days. Call the box Rob Carroll) of his sibling. office at (817) 531-4211 or, for further information, call the theater department office at The two brothers, unaware of each other’s presence, unwittingly make mischief for the (817) 531-5867. other as they work out deals and promises with the inhabitants of Epidamnus, none of whom realize they are dealing with two different people. Chaos and humor ensue through Chuck Fain is a senior writing major and is a staff writer for The Rambler.

Impersonator-elects Late night comedians’ careers determined by election

RYAN AUTHIER

Courtesy of Texas Wesleyan music department

Wesleyan music professor Julie McCoy will present Opera Workshop: Puccini’s Gianni Schicchi 7:30 p.m. Nov. 18.

Wesleyan music amps up for fall Texas Wesleyan’s music department has hit the ground running with a busy fall lineup. At 7:30 p.m. Nov.13, the music department will present “The Sacred and the Profane.” In a collaborative concert featuring both the Texas Wesleyan Wind Ensemble and Jazz Ensemble, Wesleyan’s musicians are promising some special guests and great music. “The Sacred and the Profane” includes a number of selections from Frank Ticheli, Leonard Bernstein, Maria Schneider and Leonard Bernstein and will take place in Martin Hall. Tickets are free. Shortly after “The Sacred and the Profane,” Wesleyan music will present an opera workshop, hosted by professor Julie McCoy. Based around the opera Gianni Schicchi by Giacomo Puccini, attendees will be given the opportunity to sing and act out the play on the stage in Martin Hall. The opera workshop will be at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 18. For more information on these and all of this year’s Wesleyan music events, visit www.txwes.edu/music or call at (817) 531-4234. -Staff Report

Wednesday

L OOK

On Campus:

Thursday On Campus

*“The Sacred and the *Baptist Student Movement: Sid Richardson Building, noon, Profane:” Martin Hall, 7:30 p.m. free lunch served

AHEAD

Off Campus: * Panic at the Disco: Nokia Theatre, 8 p.m.

*The Menaechmus Twins: Thad Smotherman Theater, 7:30 p.m.

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

Saturday

On Campus:

*The Menaechmus Twins: Thad Smotherman Theater, 7:30 p.m. Off Campus: *The Eagles: American Airlines Center, 8 p.m.

Sunday Off Campus:

Monday Off Campus:

Friday On Campus

*The Menaechmus Twins: Thad Smotherman Theater, 7:30 p.m. Weekly Movie Releases: Quantum of Solace; A Christmas Tale

Tuesday On Campus:

*“Brahms” by Dallas Symphony Orchestra, Nasher Sculpture Center, 10 a.m.

*Top Secret: Mission Toy: National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame, 9:30 a.m.

*Opera Workshop: Martin Hall, 7:30 p.m.

* B.B. King: Meyerson Symphony Center, noon

*Vienna Boys Choir: Bass Performance Hall, 7:30 p.m.

Weekly DVD Releases: 300; Wall-E; The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2; Garden Party

ast week’s presidential election marked a moment of great significance in American history. For the first time in its 200 plus years of existence, America will have an African American president. Certainly a highlight for the history books, however not a highlight for late night television. It seems as though this election also stands as the first where the candidate who won is also the one with the least humorous impersonator. As a long time fan of shows like Saturday Night Live and Mad TV, I have come to appreciate the talent of those who have the ability to pin point ever hilarious detail about presidents, vices and elects. But looking at the current lineups, the Obama wannabes are

just sad. It is interesting to consider that the election not only decides the fate of the entire nation, but also dictates the careers of comedians and impersonators. If their candidate doesn’t win, then their act is done for at least four years. What’s the point in being able to deliver a dead-on John Edwards or Giuliani if they’re going to drop out in January? Understand that impersonators certainly don’t possess the kind of power the presidents do, but you have to admit they’re important. Think of all of the comedians who got a boost from their presidential targets: Chevy Chase’s Gerald Ford, Dan Aykroyd’s Nixon and Carter, Dana Carvey’s George H.W. Bush and more recently Will Ferrell’s George W. Some might argue none of these comedic legends would have made it to the upper echelon of stardom without their oval Photo courtesy of NBC.com office mockery to back Saturday Night Live’s Fred Armisen will serve the office of them up. president elect Barack Obama’s prime-time impersonator Looking at this year’s the next four years. election, it appears that the top impersonating acts will have to take a backseat to some sub-par Obamas. Tina Fey, for instance, has received much acclaim for her Sarah Palin enactment, glasses, accent and all. Alongside Darrell Hammond as John McCain (As well as Dick Cheney) and Amy Poehler as Hilary Clinton, the SNL cast did an amazing job recreating this group of nominees. However, the casts’ Obama player falls short of the rest. Fred Armisen, a stretch as far as appearance and one who stumbles over lines like Jimmy Fallon once did, will have his career set in stone the next four years as what will surely be America’s most watched Obama impersonator. Sad, really, considering he’s quite awful. Even small scale businesses are already taking a hit from the new president elect. For-rent entertainment companies such as Double Exposure based in Rochester, Mich., are struggling to find decent Obamas. “I have a few George Bushes, Bill Clintons, even a Laura Bush, but no Obama,” said Kathy Krajewski, owner of Double Exposure. Despite the fact that inauguration won’t be for another few months, it is interesting to see how the election has already impacted so many, including the entertainment world. Careers were either made or broken Nov. 4 all because of the spot in the White House. No matter what happens in this phase in history, let’s at least hope it’s funny. Ryan Authier is a senior psychology major and is entertainment editor for The Rambler.