The Rambler Vol. 101, No. 3

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The Rambler

The students’ voice since 1917

Fort Worth, Texas

September 17, 2008

NEWS BRIEFS President’s Kickoff and Benefit Concert Texas Wesleyan pres-

Vol. 101, No. 3

A day of remembrance and friendly discussion

ents the music department’s

Patriot Day sparks campus forum

benefit concert featuring

MARTIN GARCIA

The Lamaze School of

NEWS EDITOR

Singing. The event will be held at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 19 in Martin Hall. Admission is free. A reception will follow.

Wesleyan Fun(d) Day The

Office

of

Advancement invites everyon to join them for lunch at the Louella Baker Martin Pavillion from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 18. By donating $5 to the Wesleyan Fund, lunch will be provided. Show your pride by wearing your denim and school colors!

See you at the pole This year’s see you at the pole rally will be held at noon Sept. 24. Join other students and faculty on the mall in front of the West Library to pray for the well being of the Wesleyan community and our great nation.

Want to take a dive?

Attention faculty and saff: Wednesday night scuba classes are beginning Sept.

17. For more information, contact Pam Rast at (817) 531-4876.

Visited RamLink lately?

Don’t forget to utilize the RamLink tool offered to stu-

September 11, 2001; it only seems like yesterday when this blessed nation lost so many in the face of violence and hatred. The seven-year anniversary was recognized at Texas Wesleyan at a forum on presidential campaign issues hosted by Gamma Sigma Sigma.

Lt. Col. Rodney Joye, Wesleyan Army ROTC professor of military science, commenced the panel discussion with a soldier’s prayer. The lobby of the student union building had never felt such patriotic and harmonious silence – a silence of remembrance, honoring those who had fallen on that dreadful day.

Joe Brown, theater professor, reminded those in attendance that although this was an event inviting friendly and political debate, as they “were doing it in honor of those who lost their lives and in honor of the families and their loved ones.”

In what was originally organized to be a Gamma Sigma Sigma rush event, according to President Henna Rehman, the event bolstered political enthusiasm and encouraged the students to speak out and stand up for their views.

Of the students in attendance, the more obvious choices to lead in discussing their respective party’s views stood up. Kent Halliburton, president of the Wesleyan Democrats, and Blake

Shonuga, head of the College Republicans, led the dialogue on their parties’ behalf.

The first topic discussed was health care. As an issue fresh on the minds of many Americans nationwide, it sparked heated debate. Republican presidential nominee John McCain’s vision for improving health care reform encourages competition amongst providers to match people’s needs, lowers prices to a manageable level and provides a tax credit to cover individuals’ costs. Democratic candidate Barack Obama believes that a national health care plan is available and is in the country’s best interests. His plan includes guaranteed eligibility, comprehensive benefits and portability and choice.

Halliburton defended Obama’s plan to obtain “affordable [health care] by increasing availability.” He defended his stance in saying that as “one of 37 million Americans without health care,” he worries about finding the right solution to the problem.

Shonuga’s rebuttal argued against the plan for universal health care by reinforcing the fact that “the expense comes out of [Americans’] tax money.”

How is the program going to be funded and “where is the money going to

Photo by Gasten Schoonover

Sid Richardson Gym reaches final phases of construction The gym floor was replaced with orthopedically-pleasing maple, and the new bleachers will be a safe alternative to the old ones.

The new roomy seating will also feature some stadium-style seats with backs that fold up when needed.

See Forum, page 2

Dora’s got a brand new bag Distinguished kitchen veteran, Ethel Hicks, has faculty dining room named in her honor KATIE SLATEN STAFF WRITER

The Dora’s Residential Restaurant that Wesleyan knew last year went through a little change this summer. Its new addition is the Ethel Hicks dining room, an area in the northeast corner designed primarily for faculty to come, converse and enjoy a nice meal.

While the new room was created primarily to encourage more faculty members to eat lunch on campus, it is also playing host to meetings and events.

The Hicks dining room is named after a lady who has spent decades working with the dining facilities at Texas Wesleyan.

“She has been here for 39 years, through three or four food companies, and has called in sick maybe three times,” said Joseph Barnes, director of food services. “That’s amazing.”

Hicks is one of a kind, dining staff said. She knows how to get it done in the kitchen and is very deserving of the honor. Staff also said that the room is a hit.

“The new dining area has been quite a success, as many professors and other faculty members have used it since its opening,” Barnes said.

A Kiwanis group of more than 25 recently used the new facility. Kiwanis International is known for revitalizing neighborhoods by introducing programs, tutoring and other projects.

Photo by Gasten Schoonover

A new room in Dora’s is intended to attract faculty to eat on campus.

The Hicks dining area is getting so popular that groups within the university are asking to rent out the space for special occasions.

In response to the high demand, Barnes said that Dora’s “is not currently renting the new space out to organizations,” but they are willing to work around scheduling to fit everyone in.

The cozy and spacious room provides a pleasant and welcoming environment for those who choose to use her services.

The Ethel Hicks dining room is open to faculty from 7 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Monday thru Friday and welcomes on campus personnel on Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.

dents via the Wesleyan home page. Make sure your grades, schedule and degree audit are all current. Don’t forget that Sept. 25 is the last day to remove an “I” letter grade.

Congratulations Wesleyan professors Dr. Katherine Prater and Dr. Thomas Klaasen received the

Exemplary

Teacher

Award from the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry of the United Methodist Church.

Convocation 2008 Photo by Gasten Schoonover

Faculty, staff and students fill the sanctuary at Poly UMC during the academic convocation Sept. 11. Trustee Janie Faris was the keynote speaker.

News

September 17, 2008

The Rambler 2

Procedures announced for parking, building access FROM THE DESK OF SECUIRTY Parking Campus security is now issuing tickets to students for parking violations. To avoid receiving a ticket, all students are asked to do the following: *If you do not already have a parking sticker, go to the circulation desk at the library and get a parking sticker. You will need your driver’s license, student ID card and license plate number. *Put the sticker on the bottom left (driver side) corner of the front windshield of your vehicle. *Park only in student parking lots. A list of parking lots and locations are below. Do not park in handicap spaces, visitor spaces, loading zones, fire zones, grassy areas or faculty parking spaces.

Photo by Gasten Schoonover

Students and faculty gather in the SUB lobby on Sept. 11 to discuss election issues.

Areas available for student parking: Parking Lot D E I K N P

Location Collard Street between Sid Richardson and Polytechnic UMC Northeast corner of Collard Street and Avenue E (fenced lot) West side of Wesleyan Street between Avenue A and Avenue B Corner of Wesleyan Street and Avenue C, directly north of Lou’s Corner of Avenue E and Binkley Street, west of Wesleyan Street Southeast corner of Collard Street and Avenue D

Building Access Security will not open a building/room to faculty, staff or students without a current school ID card. If you do not have a current ID card, one can be obtained at the circulation desk at the library. Students needing access to a building/room after hours or weekends must follow the procedures listed below: *Go to your professor and ask him/her to send a building access request form to security. The form is located on the facilities Web site. *Make sure your student ID card is current. Security will not admit a student into a building/room without a current student ID card. *After you are on the approved student list, call security at (817) 531-4911 to meet you at the building/room. Surrender your ID card to them and they will open the building/room for you. *When you are ready to leave, call security and they will return your ID card when they arrive.

By following the above procedures, we hope that students will have a safe and productive year.

Forum, from page 1 come from?” Shonuga asked.

Lower health care cost in America constitutes a reform by better coordinating care and better use of the technology available. The College Republicans noted that a universal program would “decrease competition for people wanting to be doctors.” In turn, doctors’ pay is affected, and insurance woes are felt. McCain plans to offer citizens a tax credit of $2,500 to individuals and $5,000 to families to offset the cost of insurance. Democrats argued that costs are actually $8,000.

A Republican contributor closed the discussion by saying that “the president alone ultimately doesn’t bring change to health care,” rather the system of checks and balances does.

Though only briefly touching on the subject of energy—including oil and renewable resources—the students’ views were heard at the gathering. Halliburton argued that offshore drilling for oil isn’t the answer. He noted that “giving in to ANWR (Arctic National Wildlife Refuge) and OPEC (Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries) is not an option.

So does the solution rest on introducing and promoting more solar energy usage, electric cars and bio-fuels? Democrats who support Obama supported his plan to invest more than $150 billion to advance new technologies—while also remaining gentle on the environment.

In McCain’s plan to limit carbon emissions and reduce foreign dependency on energy, he advocates for introducing technologies that would quicken the current market.

The last topic of discussion regarded the nation’s stance on same-sex marriages. McCain’s plan to protect all human life and constitutional rights prepares to reaffirm the institution of marriage as between one man and one woman. On the other hand, Obama believes in extending federal benefits under a civil-union (not a marriage) to same-sex couples.

“Equal rights and benefits for same-sex spouses are about human rights and access to equality,” said Brown.

Regardless of affiliation, the country that we live in thrives on patriotism and unity. The events that surrounded the fateful day seven years ago serve as a reminder of the liberties and rights we have at our disposal.

The organizations who held and participated in the event encourage the student body and citizens all around to love their country, recognize its historical context and appreciate the ability to be able to sit down and hold a conversation like the one that was held.

Rising costs drive legislators to pass Higher Education Act, make changes KIAH HASLETT UWIRE DAILY NEBRASKAN

After five years of committee markup and debate, Congress overwhelmingly reauthorized the Higher Education Opportunity Act. The bill passed in the House of Representatives 380-49 and in the Senate 83-8.

Sponsored by Sen. Edward Kennedy, D-Mass., the bill has four major areas of concern: accountability in the cost of higher education, simplification of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form, reforming the student loan marketplace in light of recent scandals and expanding grant aid for needy students.

The act addresses technical and specific issues concerning college education, as well as making “massive changes” to the Pell Grant, said Patricia Smith, a higher education consultant to the American Association of State Colleges and Universities.

“The reauthorization of the Higher Education Act included across-the-board changes that were not handled in the previous reconciliation bill,” she said.

What’s changing?

The bill requires educational materials such as textbooks, CDs and online codes be available individually as well as in bundled packages.

The top 5 percent of colleges with the greatest cost increases over a three-year time frame will be held accountable by submitting detailed reports to U.S. Secretary of Education Margaret Spelling explaining the rising costs and the steps taken to control them.

The FAFSA is also getting an overhaul: The seven page application, which Kennedy cited as a cumbersome barrier to low- and middle-income students, will be streamlined into a two-page FAFSA-EZ

form, with a five-year phaseout for the current form.

The new FAFSA form would also require updates when needed rather than on a yearly basis. For the first time, Pell grants will be available year-round for low-income students.

The student loan process fell under scrutiny in the new Higher Education Act. The act now requires “colleges that identify ‘preferred lenders’ to place at least three lenders on the list, and clearly explain to students why the college believes the lender is offering attractive

“The reauthorization of the Higher Education Act included across-theboard changes that were not handled in the previous reconciliation bill.”

-- Patricia Smith American Association of State Colleges

terms and conditions,” Kennedy said in a press release.

The bill also extended benefits for military veterans and students with disabilities; strengthened teacher preparation programs at the primary and secondary education levels; and introduced loan forgiveness programs for social service careers like nurses, prosecutors, public defenders and teachers, as well as a mandate to control illegal file-sharing of copyrighted materials.

Constitutional conflict?

Smith said he couldn’t see how Congress could enforce the unbundled sale of textbooks.

“There’s a big First Amendment issue there, telling publishers how they can sell their products,” he said.

Whether or not it’s a violation of the First Amendment or not, Follett Higher Education Group officials, the company

that runs the university bookstore, said they will comply with the new bill and are quite pleased about the money-saving opportunities for students.

“It will be a benefit for the student,” said Cliff Ewert, vice president of campus and public relations for Follett. “Students don’t have to buy the whole bundle - now they can buy separate pieces.”

He said with a bundle, an end-ofsemester buy-back can be difficult because discs and codes can’t be resold and reused. However, unbundling materials means students can buy used textbooks and new online codes or supplemental CDs, or choose not to buy them.

Ewert encouraged professors to call their bookstores and ask for the market price of their selected educational materials.

Since Follett isn’t a publisher, Ewert said the new law wouldn’t affect the company detrimentally or change the company’s return policy, but “Follett supports any law that will help students control the cost of textbooks.”

Neither the state college and university association nor Spellings are holding their breaths about the new bill, which was already five years overdue when it passed.

While the association expressed concerns about the increase in required reporting, Spelling cited the cost of funding 60 new educational programs, which she called “costly and duplicative” in a statement.

She said the act failed to reform accessibility and affordability and didn’t strengthen accountability, and more work must be done.

“This bill represents another important step,” she said in the statement, “but we still have a long way to go.”

Your chance to speak out Sept. 19 Fort Worth is host to one of few public hearings nationally Fort Worth will be the first city to host a series of public meetings across the country being held on the Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2008.

Students and other interested parties will have a chance to speak on the law Sept. 19 at the Brown-Lupton University Union ballroom at Texas Christian University. The meeting will last from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Higher Education Opportunity Act was passed by congress this summer and includes changes such as an increase in the dollar amount of Pell grants and measures to help lower the cost of textbooks.

The government is required to conduct the public meetings, which will be lead by the Department of Education. These officials will listen to questions and comments related to the legislation.

The meeting is also scheduled to feature representatives from the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities, as well as other officials who are working with universities to help them better understand the bill.

Those who wish to speak must sign up outside the Union ballroom, located at 2901 Stadium Drive. Sign-ups begin at 8 a.m., and speakers will be called upon in numerical order.

The meeting is free and open to the public.

Other site locations for the meetings include Pepperdine University, the University of Rhode Island and the education department’s headquarters in Washington, D.C. – Staff Report

Opinions

The Rambler

September 17, 2008 3

“Going to B.S.M.” “Winning conference in volleyball.”

“Being one semester closer to graduation.”

Emily Vitek Senior Business Management Major

“What are you most looking forward to this semester?”

Andrea Waggoner Sophomore English Major Emily Millican Freshman Undecided

Public transport on the road to popularity G

enerally speaking, the rising price of gasoline has become one of the most observed figures in America.

As the inflation increases, many consumers are seeking to find ways to get better gas mileage and avoid unnecessary trips that, in turn, “waste” gas. Some people choose to roll down the windows in their vehicle.

Others turn to hybrid vehicles and the non-petroleumbased bio diesel for relief but still end up with the probJOSH lem of a slight dependency on gasoline to keep them MORGAN going. Still others are beginning to use public transportation because, monetarily, it just makes sense. The bottom line, however, is that it’s really not enough.

Something feels like it is missing. We are one of the largest metropolitan areas in the country, but public transportation has not expanded enough here to make a significant impact and revolutionize the way we get around.

We do, however, have a decent start with the Trinity Railway Express.

In the Fort Worth-Dallas area, the TRE is a regional rail commuter line that serves as a gateway between the two major cities, making public transportation accessible and convenient. According to the American Public Transportation Association Web site, ridership of the TRE exceeds 8,700 people daily and 2.5 million annually.

With the rate of gas prices going up and ridership increasing, it is no wonder that officials of cities, counties and transit agencies across the area made a proposal in August 2008 for expansion of this important commuter rail system. And it couldn’t have come at a better time.

According to an article by Dan McGraw of Fort Worth Weekly, the proposal is this: Build a set of four “ultra-light rail” lines which will connect the inner city areas of Fort Worth.

McGraw mentions in his article that “The four lines recommended would stretch to all areas of the inner city. One would go out West 7th Street to the Cultural District and use Farrington Field as a park-andride hub. A second line would link the Hospital District with downtown, and another would go out North Main Street to the Stockyards area. The fourth line would go through the Evans/Rosedale area, ending at Texas Wesleyan University.”

Michael Morris, transportation director for the North Central Texas Council of Governments, told the Fort Worth Star-Telegram in August that

Josh Morgan is a freshman masss communication major and is a staff writer for The Rambler.

Getting out to vote is only step one ... every elector needs an education

I

NICHOLSON

“Having a successful year in golf and academics.”

Stuart Martin Sophomore Business Major

TRE Rates

What’s your election I.Q.?

EUNICE

magine that when you arrive at your next class, your professor is going to ask you to write an essay. You are to describe each presidential candidate’s policy on America’s most important issues. You have 60 minutes to complete this task and your grade will count. What would be your reaction? What kind of grade do you think you

would get?

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 66 percent of college students reported voting in the 2004 presidential election. That’s good news, but it still presents a real concern. Students may not know enough about the candidates and the issues to vote intelligently.

“Most do not,” said John Mauldin, best selling author and former member of the Texas Republic Executive Committee.

What issues (for those of us who don’t think we made on an A or a B on our essay) are on the plate? Have you thought about how this country’s next administration will affect education?

Will college tuition continue to rise? What about vidually, not just their affiliate party. job security or the economy? What’s happening The next site comes highly recommended by to our environment? Where do candidates stand Mauldin. A successful financial and political on global warming? You owe it to writer, Mauldin yourself to know how each candisays he uses realdate plans to solve these and clearpolitics.com to We the people... other problems. get reliable inforSadly a majority of mation. This site Americans will make their choice contains daily for president based on radio or news, editorials and TV ads or candidate Web sites. They need to blogs from top journalists around the country. know more. You need to know more.

My final recommendation is ontheissues.org.

We need information that is intelligent and This site will give you insights into all the politi objective. cal leaders and their outlooks on a wide variety If you are ready to raise your election IQ, of issues. Be sure to take a look at how the canread on! I have three helpful resources for you to didates have voted on issues in the past. You consider. need to know if they really walk their talk.

First, check out gocollege.com/studentsSo, while it is good news that the majority of guide-to-voting. This site presents an overview of college students will be voting for the next presithe entire voting process. It also describes the dent, we need to know more. Check out these general values of each political party (there are sites. Remember, your vote is your voice. Do more than two) and provides a list of the most your homework, raise your election IQ, and on important issues America must solve. One cauNov. 4, 2008, VOTE SMART. tion: each political candidate’s views do not necessarily coincide with the stereotypical party valEunice Nicholson is a senior writing major and is a ues, so be sure to investigate each candidate indi- contribuitng writer to The Rambler.

DECIDE 2008

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

3 million new residents will move into north Texas by 2030. This will bring the population to 9.5 million. Some percentage of these people who have the need for public transportation will most likely turn to the TRE – and, hopefully, the new light rail system as Local/ 1 zone their future means of transportation. *One-way: $1 “This isn’t 1983 anymore, where *Day Pass: $3 there was doubt anyone would take *Monthly Pass: $50 rail,” Morris said.

“Why rail?” you ask. Because Premium/2 zones transportation like the TRE allows peo*One-way: $2.50 ple to travel back and forth throughout *Day Pass: $5 the Metroplex with so many opportuni*Monthly Pass: $80 ties for employment, education and recreation along the way and a light rail Reduced/ 2 zones system in Fort Worth would integrate *One-way: 75 cents these benefits throughout the city and *Day Pass: $1.50 expand the level of accessibility to *Monthly Pass: $25 everybody.

There are many ways that TRE **To qualify for reduced fare, a rider already helps us get around. For must be: -- a child between the ages of 5-14. instance, many people commute to -- a senior citizen (65+) or a dis their jobs using the Park and Ride sysabled rider. tem to avoid sitting in morning and -- a middle or high school student evening rush hour traffic. under 19 years of age.

Others ride to Union Station and go out to explore the West End in downtown Dallas, which features attractions ranging all the way from restaurants with live music and entertainment to the intriguing and educational Dallas Art Museum.

Many others take the TRE to downtown Fort Worth where they can find other fine dining and entertainment choices.

Taking rail to classes is even possible, with the Fort Worth Intermodal Transportation Center being only a few blocks from Wesleyan’s law school. Tarrant County College will soon be available for downtown classes as well.

Just imagine what it would be like if one could ride to locations all over Fort Worth and not just in the downtown areas. The only obstacle now is funding, but we need to find a way to support it.

Many people are not looking forward to the idea of using tax payers’ money to aid in the expansion of this essential form of transPhoto by Josh Morgan portation, but the long term effects are well worth it.

We’re already being hit hard in the wallets by gas prices, so we might as well use our money to provide something that has so many benefits for people all over the city.

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 all who are aiding Ike evacuees or relief efforts.

Thumbs down to excessively cool temperatures in buildings around campus. Save energy!

Thumbs down to a lame fall TV lineup.

Thumbs up to all who attended the politcal forum on 9-11.

-- Joe Brown

Corrections & Clarifications *The clown shown on page one of the Sept. 3 issue is named J.C. His name was incorrect in the article. * The headline for the Sept. 3 page one story Mass Appeal: Wesleyan transfers courted by developmental department was misleading.

The transfer student event was actuallly under the umbrella of New Student Programs.

4 September 17, 2008

College Life

The Rambler

DORM ZONE: proceed with caution

Campus housing safety requires students’ aid, awareness and action T o new campus residents, dorm life can be considered an exciting experience. New students that are away from home for the first time, however, must be mindful of their new living arrangements.

Maintaining the safety of its students is one of the priorities Texas Wesleyan prides itself on, but without the dedication and cooperation of the student body, this goal can be difficult to implement.

One such safety issue being brought up more frequently is whether or not dorm dwellers should receive the meningococcal vaccine.

According to health officials, many universities are encouraging and LORRAINE even requiring students to get this vaccination as a safety precaution to FRAJKOR keep their campus residents healthy. Paige Cook, Wesleyan’s university nurse, would not comment on the matter, but area officials said it is one to take seriously.

According to the Tarrant County Health Department, “Meningitis, commonly referred to as spinal meningitis, is a condition that causes inflammation of the tissues covering the brain and the spinal cord. It may be caused by several different germs. The illness can cause serious health problems like blindness, deafness, paralysis, permanent brain damage or even death. With treatment most people recover fully.”

People who live together in close quarters are more susceptible to the illness. Students can avoid contracting meningococcal meningitis by receiving the vaccination from a local health clinic, the closest one being the Tarrant County Public Health Department.

“College freshmen, particularly those who live in dormitories, have a slightly increased risk of getting meningococcal disease,” Residential Security according to the U.S. Department of *Only admit your own visitors into the dorm.

Health and Human Services. *Have the locks changed if you ever lose the keys to “The issue of meningitis in college your residence. dorms is a critical one,” said Barbara *Leave lights or a radio on at your apartment so it Murph, outreach manager at the Fort looks like someone is always home.

Worth Public Health Department. *Ask anyone who gives you a ride home to wait “Meningitis can be fatal and people around until you have safely entered your apartment or dorm building. infected get very sick very quickly so -- ecampustours.com prevention is key.”

Besides immunization, Murph suggests a common barrier against severe and the more common illnesses: washing hands.

“The best and simplest thing is good HANDWASHING,” she said. “If everyone living in close quarters would just practice fundamental handwashing, the spread of bacteria and virus’ would be drastically reduced.”

Trying to avoid infections and illness is only one of the ways to stay safe on campus.

Unfortunately, college campuses across the country are no strangers to crime and mischief, and growing comfortable on your campus does not necessarily mean that students are safe from any and all harm brought upon by outsiders.

Safety precautions such as walking in well-lit areas at night, using the buddy system and being aware of one’s surroundings can make a world of difference when it comes to

staying safe on campus, according to Residence Life’s home page.

This Web site also notes: “Theft is the unlawful taking of personal property and is the single most common crime on campus.”

Outsiders are not the only people that students should be cautious about. Unfortunately with dorm life sometimes come crimes of acquaintances. While students try to make their dorm rooms look and feel more like home, they need to consider what valuable and sentimental décor to bring with them, advised Residence Life staff. Keeping doors locked and windows shut is wise, but it won’t always guard completely against personal items being stolen. Common safety precautions include never loaning out a room key and admitting only your own guests into dorms.

Students living in Wesleyan Village in the four-bedroom apartments may have less to worry about than those sharing single rooms because they have locks Photo by Gasten Schoonover on each bedroom.

However, security officials advise being aware of safety guidelines to keep their personal belongings safe and secure in their new environment.

If students cooperate by keeping doors and windows locked when they are not present, avoid leaving belongings unattended when in public and keeping an informal record of personal items, potential thefts will be less likely to successfully occur.

Lorraine Frajkor is a sophomore mass communication major and is a contributing writer for The Rambler.

Vacation for two, anyone?

Student Life offers Wesleyan big incentive to get fit Cook, university nurse. The office is next to the swimming pool at the Sid Richardson Gym. The first meeting CONTRIBUTING WRITER is set for Oct. 1. The membership fee is $25 a year. That Need an incentive to get fit? How about a free vaca- membership covers a Wesleyan Fit Club T-shirt, access to tion? all Fit Club classes and blood pressure and body fat perAmong the current activities this year is Wesleyan Fit centage readings.

Club. The socially active All factors perFit Club program, previtaining to the course, ously known as including the readWesleyan Weight Loss ings, class participaChallenge, has changed tion, weigh inns and some things to spice total weight loss are things up this year. all assigned points.

“This year Wesleyan The points are awardFit Club is geared toward ed to each member as staying fit and getting they progress in each people in shape,” said aspect. At the end of Aaron Whaley, assistant the school year, the dean of students and participant with the head of Wesleyan Fit most points wins the Club. “It’s not so much trip. about merely losing Classes for the weight.”

Fit Club will be held Photo by Gasten Schoonover Monday The winner of the through challenge this year will The Wesleyan weight room, located on the second floor of the Sid Friday from noon to 1 earn a free trip for two to Richardson building, is open to all students Monday-Thursday p.m. in the gym. The the Barton Creek Resort noon -8 p.m., Friday noon-5 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. classes include activiand Spa in Austin. ties such as pilates, basic training-boot camp, lap walkIf that’s not encouragement and motivation, I don’t ing, yoga and weight room training. know what is. Wanting to get in shape and look your best The Wesleyan Fit Club is a great way to start the new requires you to choose a different lifestyle. Along with school year. Rules and regulations can be found in the exterior changes, getting fit spurs self-confidence to new nurse’s office. For more information contact Paige Cook levels. at (817) 531-4948 or pcook@txwes.edu or Aaron Whaley Fit Club sign up starts Sept. 24 in the office of Paige (817) 531-4871 or awhaley@txwes.edu.

ALYSSUM POWER

3PR

Photo by Gasten Schoonover

Students assemble for professional training and lunch under the direction of Ann Smith. 3PR meets at noon on Mondays in Poly UMC.

Flaunt your stuff.

Write for The Rambler. twurambler@yahoo.com

Sports Double Duty

September 17, 2008 5

The Rambler

Quick Quotes “Every day you have to test yourself. If you don't, it's a wasted day."

Head Coach Josh Gibbs guides both soccer teams through season

- Terry Butts Marine Corps Athlete

ANDY CARANCHO

Upcoming Events

STAFF WRITER

Sep. 19 *Noon Volleyball vs.

Faulker University *4 p.m. Volleyball vs.

Lubbock Christian 4 p.m. Women’s Socer @ Angelo State University Sep. 20 *Noon Volleyball vs. John Brown University *4 p.m. Volleyball vs.

Oklahoma City University Sep. 22 TBA Men’s Golf @ O.D. Bounds Golf Classic *denotes home game

Sports Briefs Volleyball set to host Hughes-Wesleyan Classic at off-campus site Sep. 15 The Lady Rams will return to action Sept. 19 while hosting the 2nd Annual Hughes-Wesleyan Volleyball Classic. Due to continued renovations of the Sid Richardson Gym, the tournament has been moved to Texas Advantage Volleyball’s Complex in Fort Worth. Find directions to the complex at www.ascvb.com.

Tornados no match for Rams Sep. 12 After rescheduling the game due to impending weather, the men’s soccer team took a 4-1 win over Concordia University at Martin Field.

The Rams moved to 3-1-1 on the season.

Cubrilo named conference player of the week Sep. 10 Wesleyan men’s soccer player Leo Cubrilo was named conference player of the week. Cubrilo is a sophomore forward from Sarajevo, Bosnia. He came off the bench to rally the Rams to a 4-3 double-overtime victory over nationally ranked Benedictine College.

Volleyball setter Millican named best of the week Sep. 10 Freshman Emily Millican, a setter from Red Oak, TX, was named conference setter of the week. She registered 112 assists in four matches for the team, including 45 against Texas Woman’s University. She also collected 22 assists with 14 digs against Southeastern Oklahoma State.

Keep up with campus sports The student activity and intramural sports information is now posted at http://www.txwes.edu/studentactivities/

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

Courtesy of Athletic Department

Lopez delivers hat trick en route to 8-0 victory The Texas Wesleyan women’s soccer team took an 8-0 decision over Concordia University at Martin Field, as freshman Diana Lopez (above) delivered a hat trick.

Lopez scored her first three collegiate goals in the 54th, 61st, and 79th minutes.

The Lady Rams led 4-0 at the half, and went on to score four more in the second.

Brittany O’Brien and Katy Houchin each made one save in the shutout for the Lady Rams.Texas Wesleyan dominated play throughout, taking a 32-8 advantage in shots including 19-2 in shots on goal.

- Athletic Department News Release

If you haven’t noticed, Wesleyan has a noteworthy soccer program. The women’s team has won conference championships in two out of the last three seasons, and the men won a conference championship in 2005.

Though they lost in the finals that season, much of the soccer success at Wesleyan can be attributed to thirdyear soccer coach Josh Gibbs.

Gibbs began his coaching career in 2006 after both the men’s and women’s team won their first conference championships.

Gibbs actually played for Wesleyan for three years and earned his bachelor of science degree in 2003.

He was very excited about returning to the university.

In the team’s 2006 media guide, Gibbas said “I couldn’t have it any better. I’m coming in to coach two conference championship teams at my alma mater.”

Coaching two soccer teams consists of, among many other duties, daily training sessions that last from one to two hours a day. The long hours allow Gibbs to get to know each of his many players.

“Interacting and actually getting some coaching in is what is the most enjoyable part of his job” Gibbs said.

Gibbs looks out for the players’ well being in every aspect. Not only does he put it upon himself to make sure his players have the proper equipment to be successful on the field, he’s also in of charge of finding tutors for his athletes that are in need of it.

Gibbs doesn’t get much of a break in the off season either. Those are the days he’s busy recruiting new players to play for him in the next season. He and his coaching staff attend games to find talented players, but that job presents challenges.

“Top high school players often have their sights set on bigger universi-

ties,” Gibbs said. “The coaching staff looks anywhere they might find talent.

That mostly conists of club tournaments, but Gibbs will resort to other tactics.

“I’ll go to a backyard pick up game if that’s what it takes to get talent,” Gibbs said with a laugh.

Obstacles haven’t stopped Gibbs from fielding good soccer teams this year. His men’s team contains many talented players that have received conference recognition.

“On the men’s team there are too many players to list,” he said. “There’s lots of depth and quality.”

While he said the same could be said about the women’s team, he suggested keeping any eye on senior goalkeeper Brittany O’Brien, among others this season.

The injury bug has bitten the teams this year, but once everyone is healthy, Gibbs expects both teams to reach the national tournament.

“Winning a national championship sends a surge or jolt throughout the university,” Gibbs said. “If we win, players will start coming to the program, as opposed to us having to chase them.”

Courtesy of Athletic Department

Gibbs took the reigns of the soccer programs in 2006, and has been watching intently ever since. Assistant Gaspar Martinez helps shoulder the load of recruiting and coaching as well.

Getting with the programs Josh Lacy is the Wesleyan stats master who just can’t get enough ten games a week, and even more in the spring semester when sometimes sports events can have conflicting game times with basketball, baseball, and softball all in season at once.

It only takes a glance inside Josh Lacy’s office to see that he is very busy.

“February gets a little rough,” Lacy said. “My schedule gets filled up The man beginning his fourth year as the Sports Information Director at quickly.”

Wesleyan attends more collegiate sporting events than anyone else on camWhen schedules overlap, Lacy relies on his assistant Ryan Amador to pus, and it shows. help cover all the events.

Directly behind his desk hangs a calendar the size of a chalkboard which is, “Luckily, we’ve never had more the two sports to cover on any single on a typical day, filled to the brim with writing that includes game times and date,” Lacy said. locations, as well as what deadlines are coming up and various meetings that Before coming to Wesleyan, Lacy was the SID at Limestone College in he will be attending throughout Gaffney, South Carolina for two the week. years before he moved to Texas so “I have a great job,” he said. that he could be closer to his fam“Basically I get paid to see every ily in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. single game.”

His passion for sports is someAs the Sports Information thing that he just could never leave Director, Lacy helps manage behind. team websites, assembles the Lacy grew up in Arkansas media guides for all of the sports and attended Emory University in at Texas Wesleyan, keeps team Atlanta, Georgia where he was a statistics, and deals with the history major with intentions to press releases after every game. become a history teacher when he The athletic department is finished school. responsible for announcing He has worked as a media relagames and keeping score for all tions assistant for two AAA minor sports, so it is not uncommon to league baseball programs. First, in find Lacy taking part in such the 2002 season in Charlotte, activities as running the scoreSouth Carolina with the Charlotte board for soccer, volleyball, Knights( minor league affiliate of Photo by Josh Morgan baseball, and softball games durthe Chicago White Sox), and then Lacy spends time in his office during the day updating web sites, reviewing pictures, ing their seasons. again in Virginia with the creating media guides and whatver else comes his way. In afternoons, evenings and Similar to many other impor- even on the weekends, Lacy is the primary announcer and statistician for all Wesleyan Richmond Braves (minor league tant positions in the sports athletic programs. affiliate of the Atlanta Braves) department, the most demanding during the 2003 season. part of his job is utilizing proper time management skills.

In his free time, Lacy does sports photography and enjoys spending time “There is a lot of work to do and sometimes there can be up to 4-5 games with his family and his seventeen month old daughter, Addison. all in one day,” he admits.

His pictures of athletes can be found anywhere from the covers of media In the fall semester when things pick up Lacy attends on average about guides to the action-filled sports page of The Rambler.

JOSH MORGAN STAFF WRITER

Entertainment

6 September 17, 2008

The Rambler

I like the nightlife, baby!

Downtown Fort Worth offers quality entertainment for your collegiate budget

A

t the end of another long and arduRight off of Sundance Square, it boasts dancing, live music, posh Mexican restaurant with prices slightly more than ous school week, do you ever find a nice lounge and a pool table or two. Cover here is a reayour average TexMex joint and serves some excellent dishyourself sitting around, twiddling your sonable and depends on the day of the week, so check their es. Their “Margarita X” is a personal drink favorite for thumbs, hoping for something to those with a hefty-enough pocketbook and an over do? Well, as The Cars sang, “I 21 license. like the night life baby.” To find it After a romantic dinner, head over to the you need look no further than AMC Palace 9 off of Commerce and Third streets downtown Fort Worth! for a quick flick. Tickets are about $8.50 per perThe nightlife in our little son, cheaper with your student ID. Meander downGASTEN metropolitan municipality is simtown on a Thursday night, and enjoy a ticket on SCHOONOVER ply magical. If you know where the house just by flashing your Wesleyan student to look, it is rather easy to incite I.D. The theater is rather unique, with its multisome entertainment on any given night. leveled design in the heart of downtown.

First on our stop is one of my favorite spots, Lastly, if you’re looking for a high-class Hyena’s Comedy Night Club. Located off Eighth night out complete with suit and tie, order some and Houston streets, Hyena's is a fantastic place to tickets for the Bass Performance Hall. Tickets kill a night of the doldrums. In addition to their average about $40 depending on the event, but the weekly Thursday Best of Texas Comedy Night, they price is worth it. Whether it is a performance by have various comics from around the world perthe Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra, an Italian forming on Friday and Saturday nights. Tickets are opera or a comedy performance of Mama Mia, the $10, with an additional $5 for preferred floor seatBass Hall always hosts a great show. Everyone ing. While there, fill out the comment cards on your can find something suited to his or her own tastes.

Courtesy of Google Images table. It will enter you for a chance to win free tickIf you decide to stop in, the mezzanine is one of Sundance Square in downtown Fort Worth offers experiences for all tastes, from the best places to sit. This area is reasonably ets (and believe me, you will get them. Hyena’s clubs and honky tonks to an array of restaurants and theaters. gives out more free tickets than Gerald Ford did parpriced, offers a decent view, and gives you the dons). Ages 18 and up are welcome. best sound quality (second only to the box tier if After Hyena’s, stop in for a drink and billiards next Web site for details. If you arrive too early, you’ll likely you can pony out the dough). door at the Fox and Hound. The Fox and Hound (all ages find the place dead, but it also gets you in with no cover at Fun is around every corner in downtown Fort Worth, welcome) offers an all around great menu and high quality times. you just have to know where to go. Wander around, get pool tables to appease your billiard needs. It gets pretty City Streets is 21 and up except for Sunday’s college lost, shake it up, find your own great spots and brag to your crowded as the night goes on, so try to get there a little night, which welcomes 18 and up. friends about all the fun you had. You’re only in college early.

Perhaps you’d rather trade the glamour for a traditional once.

If the English pub is not your scene, you can hop on dinner and a movie with a significant other. Drop by Mi Gasten Schoonover is a senior business major and is the photo ediover to City Streets to enjoy the Fort Worth club scene.

Cocina in between Third and Fourth streets on Main. It’s a tor for The Rambler.

Fall lineup set to hit the airwaves A

fter Hollywood’s writers’ strike last year, writers from coast to coast scrambled, searching for new jobs and reliable employers. This led the executives of TV companies such as CBS, NBC, ABC and the CW to create ZAYLE a wide variety of brandGRIFFIN new shows from scratch.

Shows such as 90210, America’s Toughest Jobs, Kath & Kim, Kings, Knight Rider and Worst Week have almost magically been fabricated in preparation for fall 2008.

Among these shows, 90210 has been the most talked about by far. It is a remake of the 1990’s teen drama with familiar faces from the original in Jennie Garth and Shannen Doherty.

The 2008 version of 90210 is viewed through the eyes of Annie (Shenae Grimes) and her adopted brother, Dixon (Tristan Wilds). Their family has been uprooted from their comfortable lives in rural Kansas, and relocated to Beverly Hills to take care of their fading movie star grandmother. Not only are Annie and Dixon the new kids of the cliquefilled high school, but their father is now the school’s principal.

The show takes viewers on the journey of the trials and tribulations of Annie and Dixon in a town full of the rich and famous.

Although it’s far from the Beverly Hills atmosphere, even students at Texas Wesleyan are excited about 90210.

Chelsey Lewis, a freshman mass communication major, said she was excited about the

A

Wednesday

L OOK

On Campus:

17

*Open Mic Night: Hyena’s Comedy Club, 9 p.m.

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

Off Campus:

20

Thursday On Campus:

18

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

AHEAD Saturday

teenage drama shows and the love shows timers, ABC favorites like Ugly Betty, Lost, “mostly because my life has no love drama or Eli Stone and Dirty, Sexy, Money are back stuff like that.” and offer the same laughs, tears and susIt will indeed pense as be interesting to seasons see how a young past. Tune cast of actors in to Fox, recreates a show and you’ll so deeply rooted see familin the generation iar shows they were born Prison into. The show Break, airs Tuesday Family nights at 8 p.m.

Guy and on the CW. House. If Another House’s show that’s Hugh Courtesy of NBC attracting buzz Laurie Molly Shannon and Selma Blair will star as Kath & Kim on this fall is My carries a Thursdays this fall on NBC. Own Worst bigger Enemy, which premiers at 9 p.m. Oct. 13 on smile this season, it’s probably diagnosed as NBC. This show – you’ve no doubt seen the a result from his new $400,000 per-episode commercials – is about a man who, in Jekyll contract. and Hyde fashion, has two competing personThere’s something in the air this fall alities: Edward who is good, Henry who is that is getting everybody excited about the bad. Though NBC hasn’t revealed too much new fall lineup. about the show, they are promising it will be When asked about what show he was the one to watch this fall. most excited about, Julian Cole, freshman Also on NBC is the comedy Kath & Kim. mass communication major said “Heroes …

This show, about a mother and daughter who on the inside I’m a big nerd.” love fake nails and hairspray, looks hilarious With such an arrangement of shows hitand is a must-see for the fall. ting the tubes this fall, one has to wonder Kath and Kim, a spin-off of the which ones will make the November cut Australian sitcom with the same title, has list?

NBC executives hoping that the fan base will Stay tuned to find out! grow to be as big as their other international remake, The Office. Kath & Kim premiers at 8:30 p.m. Oct. 9.

Zayle Griffin is a junior mass communication major and is a staff writer for The Rambler.

Not to count out other network big

Sunday Off Campus:

21

* Three Doors Down, Hinder & Finger Eleven: Superpages.com Center, 6:30 p.m.

*As it is on Earth: St. Rita Catholic Church of Dallas, 8 p.m.

*Amos Lee: Granada Theater, 9 p.m.

*Jazz by the Boulevard: Will Rogers Memorial Center, 2 p.m.-8 p.m.

Friday

19

On Campus: *How to Birth a Song: An Operatic Spoof: Martin Hall, 7:30 p.m.

Mark your calendar NBC Heroes 8 p.m. Sept. 22 Knight Rider 7 p.m. Sept. 24 Lipstick Jungle 9 p.m. Sept. 24 *The Office 8 p.m. Sept. 25 My Own Worst Enemy 9 p.m. Sept. 29

ABC Ugly Betty 7 p.m. Sept. 25 Grey’s Anatomy 8 p.m. Sept. 25 Desperate Housewives 8 p.m. Sept. 28 Brothers & Sisters 9 p.m. Sept. 28

CW Smallville 7 p.m. Sept. 18 Supernatural 8 p.m. Sept. 18

The High-C Soprano

*Methodist Student Off Campus: Movement: Poly UMC, 12:15 p.m., free lunch served Weekly Movie Releases: My Best Friend’s Girl; Lakeview Terrace; Appaloosa, Igor

Monday On Campus:

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Tuesday On Campus:

23

* 3PR: Polytechnic UMC, noon

* Chapel Service: Polytechnic UMC, 12:15 p.m.

Off Campus:

Off Campus:

* Nelly: House of Blues Dallas, 8 p.m.

Weekly DVD Releases: Sex and the City; Leatherheads; Run, Fatboy, Run; The Foot Fist Way

Soprano Colleen Mallette, along with accompanist Keith Critcher, will perform The Lamaze School of Singing Presents: How to Birth a Song-An Operatic Buffet Sept. 19.

The event will headline the President’s Council Kickoff beginning at 7:30 p.m. in Martin Hall. Admission is free and a reception will follow in the Baker-Martin Pavillion.