wednesday
September 2, 2009
Vol. 92 • No. 1 Online:
www.therambler.org
The Rambler The voice of Texas Wesleyan University students since 1917
Local drink specials featured in Chuck’s Cheap Thrills. Entertainment, page 5
Lady Rams soccer ranks nationally for the first time. Sports, page 6
Facility marks new era for community
Success Center offers new resources
Jonathan Resendez
The Academic Success Center will offer a range of interactive workshops, counseling sessions, developmental programs and several other resources geared toward the academic and social success of Texas Wesleyan students. Melody Bell Fowler, director of student support programs and services, and Michael Greer Hall, assistant director of the Academic Success Center and learning specialist, have designed the new services offered at the ASC. “It’s a learning center, and we need to make an environment that’s conducive for that,” Fowler said. Through surveys, research and workshops both Fowler and Hall integrated a larger network of programs and services intended to provoke student interest and learning. “It’s coming from the students,” Hall said. “We’re doing the ones (programs) they asked for.” Programs such as time management and semester planning are hosted by staff, while other programs such as “That Darned Comma” and “Rational Expressions & Applications” are conducted by the faculty. The ASC will have workshops and tutoring for students majoring in the sciences too. Professors have helped design the programs to ensure that the ASC succeeds in its mission to encourage and reinforce student achievement. Associate Professor of English Dr. Stacia Neeley contacted other professors to come up with ideas for ways the faculty could contribute to the ASC’s efforts in promoting scholarship. Consideration has also been given to transfer students at Wesleyan. The Transfer Information Group will host orientation sessions throughout September that transfer stu-
jlresendez@mail.txwes.edu
Heat, humidity and even class times were not enough to prevent hundreds of students, faculty and alumna from attending the groundbreaking ceremony for the Jack and Jo Willa Morton Fitness Center. The 10,000-square-foot facility, the first of its kind at Wesleyan, is scheduled to open next year and will provide cardio, weight training and aerobics. “This new facility is emblematic of the resurgence of this university and of this neighborhood,” said Roy Brooks, Tarrant County commissioner and Texas Wesleyan board member. Audience members clapped and nodded as Brooks said that the new structure was more than just a fitness center. “It is a ray of hope for this campus and this neighborhood,” he said. “It is a validation of the decision made a generation ago by the administration and the trustees of this university to stand with the people of Polytechnic Heights.” Jack Morton, to whom the center is dedicated, grew up in the Poly neighborhood and attended Polytechnic High School. While studying business at Texas Wesleyan, Jack met future wife Jo Willa, who was studying economics and physical education. “We are honored and enthusiastic about this project,” Morton said. “And the good health and camaraderie that we hope it brings back to this campus.” Wesleyan affiliates were not the only familiar names in attendance. U.S. Rep. Michael C. Burgess spoke about the long-term benefits the center will offer. “Prevention and participation are going to be the two keys to good health for the next generation of North-Texans coming up after us,” he said. State Rep. Marc Veasey said he began his dedication to physical fitness as a student at Texas Wesleyan in the ‘90s. “Most of our young people, by the time they graduate from 12 years in a private or public school system will have been inundated with so much Chick-fil-A and McDonalds and fried food,” he said, “that starting a good workout regiment in college with a state-of-the-art fitness center can lead to a lifelong commitment to physical fitness.” Heath Scott, president of the Student Government Association, said that the more the university offers its students, the more successful it will be. Retention rates will rise and campus spirit
CEREMONY, page 3
Renee Greer | Rambler Staff Jack Morton and son Dr. William Morton clear the dirt with gold shovels at the groundbreaking ceremony of the Jack and Jo Willa Fitness Center, set to open fall 2010.
Connor Howell
mhowell@mail.txwes.edu
success, page 3
Wesleyan bookstore relocates to roomier, historic building Jonathan Resendez
jonathanresendez@lycos.com
With more room to sell everything from Wesleyan shirts to cell phones to tampons, the Texas Wesleyan bookstore continues to garner attention and business at its new location. The bookstore, located on the corner of Rosedale and Binkley, allows for a bigger, brighter and ultimately more appealing shopping experience according to students and employees. “There’s more space,” said Cory Roper, a sophomore undecided major. “It’s not at all crowded like the old store where everything was jampacked together.” Rebecca Penn, a sophomore English major, has worked at both bookstore locations during the past two years. She said the new build-
“It’s not at all crowded like the old store where everything was jampacked together.”
Corey Roper
sophomore
ing not only allows for a less cramped store, but it also draws compliments with its nostalgic appearance. “Almost everyone that comes in likes the floors, which are the original floors of this building,” she said. The floors are the rustic, weathered wooden floors of the building which was once a Mott’s five-and-dime. Store manager Barbara Sherman said that people have often come in the store since it has moved to share stories about how they grew up in the neighborhood and
were pleased to see the building in use again. Although the grand opening is Sept. 8, the store has received steady business since Aug. 1, Sherman said, with book vouchers accounting for approximately 70 percent of sales. Many students, however, are going online to get their books. “If you buy your books here, we can take care of you. Hassle-free refunds are one of the advantages we have
store , page 3
Jonathan Resendez | Rambler Staff The Texas Wesleyan bookstore at its new location at Rosedale and Binkley.
Opinion Your opinion matters
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| September 2, 2009
Laurence J.S. ljsheehan@mail.txwes.edu
Who I am: I have many names; you can always pick one, or use them all. I go by Laurence J.S. in the professional world; my family calls me Larry or Uncle Larry (because I’m an uncle), and The Great One. Hey You, and That Fat Guy Over There are also inappropriately acceptable. I’ll be the one on campus wearing Chuck Taylors, jeans, sports coats and ties. It’s my own version of personal branding. I’m a junior mass communication major, in my mid-20s, and yes it took me nearly a decade to figure out what I wanted to be when I grow up. Don’t ask me what I want to be when I grow up. I still couldn’t tell you. All I can tell you is working for the greatest retail empire in the world for scraps is not worth
it.
I found the one thing we lack in this world is proper communication, hence the mass comm pursuit. I’m sarcastic to the extreme; I make fun of everything and open myself up to
fessional chapters both locally and internationally. Juggling college life and “maturity” is always a challenge. I want this column to be something that makes you laugh, think and occasion-
“I want to hear your opinions, and I do value them.” be made fun of too. Laughter is what makes life worth living. I’m not only an editor for this paper, but I’m also the president of the Texas Wesleyan IABC (International Association of Business Communicators). We are the premiere business communication organization on campus with ties to the pro-
ally ticks you off. I want you to respond to what I write. I want to hear your opinions, and I do value them. I like open discussion on every topic, and the best ones are the ones that make you uncomfortable. Whatever brings you out of your comfort zone will only make you a better person. Not every opinion is a
valid one though. If you are intentionally lashing out in a deconstructive manner, then keep it to yourself. I may not agree with my friend’s lifestyles, or understand them, but I don’t judge them for their choices. I support them. I don’t believe in tolerance. I believe in acceptance. You don’t have to agree with everybody or anybody, but you do need to respect and try to understand who people are and where they come from. So with all that said, be sure to send me e-mails; leave me messages at The Rambler office, or send up smoke signals. I’ll publish as much of your work as I can, and I’ll work with each person who wants to be published to make sure his/her best work is put forward.
Investigating CIA is unproductive Rachel Horton
rlhorton@mail.txwes.edu
For most of us, an 8 a.m. class is about as close as we get to torture. With the start of school, and those 8 a.m. classes, current events and politics often get pushed into the background of our consciousness. We are, however, in the midst of a controversy. For the first time, the executive branch of our government is apparently engaged in an undeclared war on the CIA. On Aug. 24, classified documents outlining former procedures and dispersing specific names were made public knowledge in this latest move from the Justice Department. Unfortunately, making CIA business the business of the public at large slightly defeats the point and purpose of the organization. Of course the conflict between President Obama’s administration and the policies of his predecessor is a normal news item. In the areas of healthcare, taxes, the War on Terror and diplomatic relations, Obama has consistently battled with the shadow of former President George Bush’s administration rather than making his own case for change. The dealings of the Obama administration with the CIA are no exception. Interrogators are now at the mercy of criminal
investigators, something that government workers are rarely exposed to. Stripped of any qualified immunity, these individuals are now ranked among America’s worst criminals. CIA Director Leon Panetta felt compelled to note in the Washington Post on Aug. 2 that “It is worth remembering that the CIA implements presidential decisions; we do not make them…my agency continues to pay a price for enduring disputes over policies that no longer exist.” Major news agencies across the country continue to call for blood and goad the hounds to the chase without regard for the line between past and present. The Obama administration simply adds fuel to the fire. On Aug. 24, Attorney General John Holder named the federal prosecutor responsible for investigating the actions of the CIA employees. According to the New York Times, the review will be the most politically explosive inquiry since Holder took over the Justice Department in February. The American Way demands justice, most assuredly. But should we expect reparation from those who never actually committed the crime? In every other case of international or domestic injustice, the one issuing the orders is always held as the
responsible party. The CIA should be left in peace to do the job it was intended to do. The decision to eliminate certain practices from interrogation methods is not the issue at the heart of this matter. It is not difficult to understand the reality of what happened after Sept. 11, 2001. Bush and his administration acted in what they considered to be the best interests of the country, just as any other president would have. The country was frightened and angry. Decisions were made that we can only judge from the perspective of history. The public responded with the last
“Decisions were made that we can only judge from the perspective of history.”
The Rambler Founded in 1917 as The Handout Publisher: Harold G. Jeffcoat
Jonathon Resendez, news editor Laurence Sheehan, opinion editor Conner Howell, college life editor Joakim Soederbaum, sports editor Chuck Fain, entertainment editor Laura Rosser, photo editor Rachel Horton, Web editor Daniel Bravo, advertising manager Kelli Lamers, adviser Dr. Kay Colley, facutly liason
Member of the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association
Opinions expressed in The Rambler are those of the individual authors only and do not necessarily reflect the views of he 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. Confidentiality will be granted if requested. While every consideration is made to publish letters, publication is limited by time and space.
election, and the changes deemed necessary by the current administration were made. The undercurrent of animosity and antagonism displayed by the executive branch of our government has reached its peak. Enough is enough. As the backbone of all intelligence that our country receives, the CIA is to be commended and treated with respect. Subjecting CIA employees to criminal investigation is both unproductive and harmful to the situation at hand. The President, and his administration, should remember that we are all on the same side.
The Rambler | www.therambler.org
Wasted The tragedy of drunken minds
Sam Sottosanto
Daily Eastern News
I am 20 years, eight months and one-day-old, and I still have yet to taste a drop of alcohol. While I can see the bit of amusement in getting drunk or watching your friends get drunk, personally, I don’t think I’d ever want to participate in something that involves being out of control of my own body. Honestly, I don’t see what’s so appealing about going out every weekend and getting wasted with all of your friendsmaybe that’s why they called it being wasted? I mean, don’t you want to remember what you did? I think a little alcohol is alright, for instance, if you decided you wanted to try the new margarita flavor at a local restaurant. I just don’t like the idea of going overboard, and I especially don’t like the idea of minors going overboard. Even before I got to college, my peers had been going out drinking. And although everyone knows underage drinking is bad because it’s against the law and you can get in trouble, there is one obvious point we are overlooking when it comes to underage drinking: It affects the brain. According to an article that appeared on CNN. com, adolescent brains are still developing and are in a ‘learning’ stage all the way into their early 20s. Alcohol can damage the learning process in a young brain and can also affect a young person’s memory. And because young brains are still in this ‘learning stage,’ they are quicker to react to alcohol, meaning they will not feel tired or drowsy for a long time, unlike adult brains. Since they have this longer period of time
without becoming sleepy, it encourages them to drink more, hitting them with what CNN.com calls a “double whammy.” Adult brains, which are, according to the article on CNN.com, “more set in their ways,” will get tired quicker, letting them know it’s time to quit (alcoholism, of course, being another story). And as I mentioned before, since young brains are in a ‘learning’ stage, alcohol can cause a disrup-
tion in learning development. And according to www. ahealthyme.com, more often than not, adults with an addiction to alcohol began drinking while in high school or earlier. I know that schools across the nation have tried to stop underage drinking with programs such as D.A.R.E. and AlcoholEdu. But I don’t think these programs work. I mean, I don’t drink and even I thought AlcoholEdu was pointless. I remember thinking, ‘Why should I fill this thing out when I know I’m not going to drink?’ Instead, I think parents need to step up. Whether or not kids want to admit it, parents are our No. 1 influence. If parents talk to their kids early and often about alcohol and its effects, I believe there would be a decrease in underage drinkers. Because whether or not you choose to believe it, underage drinking is a serious problem.
What is your most difficult class this fall?
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Campus
?????, 2009
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Colleges prepare for swine flu return UWire
As colleges ready themselves for an onslaught of students, university officials across the country are preparing for the rapid spread of the H1N1 virus that’s expected to hit campuses hard this fall. Five or six girls at the University of Alabama’s Alpha Gamma Delta sorority house have already been diagnosed with swine flu days after the end of the fall recruitment. The students were not quaran-
tined, but the sorority’s president Stacy Summerville told the school’s student newspaper, The Crimson White, that the house has been cleaned to prevent the spread of the illness. At Duke, a group of players and staff members of the football team displayed symptoms of swine flu earlier this month, according to the Duke Chronicle. Some were quarantined whiles others tried to prevent the spread of the disease.
“I wash my hands about 38 times a day, minimum,” head coach David Cutcliffe told the newspaper. “We can’t call ourselves out of the woods, but we have taken tons of measures and will continue to take the measures recommended by doctors, Duke University, the CDC at Duke. We’ve used our resources well.” Many university officials are waiting for the release of a vaccine expected in mid-October though Jill deLaubenfels, the director of the health
center at Cornell College in Mount Vernon, Iowa, expects it will first go to people considered at-risk for contracting the illness. Officials at the University of Kansas know the virus is there and Patty Quinlan, nursing supervisor, told the school’s newspaper that new students should be aware because they already have many stressors that weaken the immune system such as a new diet, people, social scene and living conditions combined
Success
with less sleep, more stress and increased alcohol and tobacco use. University officials across the country are urging students to wash their hands often, cover their mouths when they cough and not share utensils or drinking cups. Many are requesting students be tested as soon as they exhibit flu-like symptoms especially if they’re running a fever and to isolate themselves for at least 24 hours after the fever subsides.
“Any time you get a group of people in a relatively confined space, and you have one person who has a particular illness, it’s easy to get passed on,” Texas A&M’s health center staff physician Ed Styduhar told The Battalion. “The majority of the people that come here, you are going to assume they would be in pretty good health. Those that don’t take care of themselves are going to be more prone to contract an illness then those that take care of themselves.”
continued from page 1
dents can attend to get information on the services available to Wesleyan students. The ASC has also undergone considerable physical
changes in its décor. Dean of Freshmen Joe Brown has given it a new look in order to make the atmosphere comfortable and “get the energy
right” for a learning environment, he said. For more information on the ASC and its programs, call (817) 531-4219.
Upcoming ASC Seminars Sept. 8
“That Darned Comma”
Stacia Neeley
Sept. 10
“Fragments and Run-Ons: OK for Novelists but Not For Us!”
Linda Carroll
Sept. 15
“Parterning Words: A Grammar Lesson on Agreement”
Stacia Neeley
Sept. 17
“Usage: But is it Spelled Correctly?”
Linda Carroll
Oct. 22
“Citing Sources and Developing a Works Cited”
Carol Johnson-Gerendas
Oct. 27
“Transistion Between Sentences and Paragraphs”
Carol Johnson-Gerendas
Seminars are 12:30 p.m.- 1:30 p.m. in the library orientation room.
Laura Russer | Rambler Staff Texas Wesleyan cheerleaders perform at the close of the groundbreaking ceremony.
CEREMONY
will intensify. Morton, accompanied by other donors and Texas Wesleyan administrators, broke the first ground with gold
store
continued from page 1
shovels as the large crowd cheered. “The event drew a lot of the students out,” said Angel Maldonado, junior mass
communications major. “More than I thought.” For video of the ceremony and interviews with faculty, visit The Rambler Web site.
continued from page 1
over students buying books online,” she said. Jana Smith, textbook supervisor at the bookstore, said that with more students turning to the Internet for the purchase of their textbooks, students should know that buying a textbook online can
morph into a gambling game. While the majority of students said only good things about the new bookstore and location, some preferred the closer, old location. “It sucks that it’s across the street. When it was closer it was nice not having to worry
about getting hit by a truck when crossing the street,” said Kerri Maestas, sophomore vocal performance major. The grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony is Sept. 8 during free period.
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College Life
September 2, 2009
Students solicit 3PR help for grad school
Jonathan Resendez
jlresendez@mail.txwes.edu
With the flailing economy increasing the competitiveness and difficulty of graduate school admissions, students are flocking by the dozens to Wesleyan’s 3PR Program. Dating back almost 30 years, the M.D. Anderson Pre-Professional Program offers students the preparation needed for admission into, and success within, graduate school. The program helps students who wish to study and professionally make a career in medicine, law or ministry. Ann Smith, 3PR recruitment and activities specialist, said enrollment in the junior level course has increased 100-fold from last year. The program is divided into four parts, one for each year of undergraduate study. During each year, students in the program focus on certain aspects of successful graduate school admission. The junior-level course focuses on the interview, personal statement, admissions test and application process. “I like to think of us as investment bankers. We help keep the reality check from bouncing,” Smith said. Dr. Miriam Espinoza, 3PR Director, teaches the junior level
It’s a toss up
“I like to think of us as investment bank-
ers. We help keep the reality check from bouncing.” Ann Smith
3PR recruitment and activities specialist course with Dr. Kathy Prater, assistant director. Espinoza helps the pre-law students while Prater assists the pre-med students. “For me, nowhere else with a pre-law or pre-med program do they have something like our class for juniors,” Prater said. “No other university offers as much personal detail to the whole application process as we do.” Prater said mock interview preparation is more critical for medical school students than law school students. Joe Brown, 32-year dean of freshmen and speech professor, helps students refine specific details before and after the interview. Amanda Molten, sophomore history major, said the program keeps her focused by constantly reminding her of the looming challenges of graduate school. Interacting with other students who are heading in the same direction is also motivating, she said. “Some of the instructors are really blatant about things,” Molten said. “Because schools
operate on a tier system, it has motivated me to take [University of Texas at] Austin classes at home over the summer.” A member of the bioethics team, Molten hopes to serve as an international civil rights and criminal defense attorney. Having worked for Texas Wesleyan for 41 years, Dr. Ibrahim Salih, political science professor and pre-law adviser, has supported the program since its inception. “We provide the opportunity for every worthy student to be accepted into law school,” he said. “The program has broadened its offerings. But the competition has enlarged too.” The program only accepts enrolled Texas Wesleyan students with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Entering freshmen wanting to participate must have an SAT score of 1,000 or an ACT score of 22. Interested applicants should talk to their academic adviser about enrolling. For more information, contact the 3PR office at (817) 531-4484 or 3PR@txwes.edu.
Renee Greer | Rambler Staff David Slick juggles clubs during the Presidents Picnic Aug. 25. He is a world-class juggler and holds two Guinness Book of World Records in juggling.
Gamma Phi Beta offers women involvement, starts recruitment Renee Greer
crgreer@mail.txwes.edu
Rush Week is quickly approaching and the ladies of Gamma Phi Beta are on the move. This sorority is offering more than involvement in a group of its peers, they’re offering what some call the highest level of womanhood. The Delta Epsilon Chapter at Texas Wesleyan University will start its recruitment process at 6 p.m. Sept. 9 in the Student Union Building. This process will include an information night, a craft night, a game night and a Preference Bruch Bid. To be considered for this organization, students must have and maintain a 2.5 grade point average to be a member and a 3.0 in order to be an officer. GPB has been an official sorority on Texas Wesleyan’s campus since 1974, and it’s one of the 10 oldest women’s organizations here in North America with more than 159,000 members. The organization raised $82,742 for Campfire USA between 2007 and 2008, according to GPB officials. The word “sorority” was first coined for Gamma Phi Beta, making them the first women’s society to be known by that name. GPB touts a number of benefits for its members, such as; a leadership program, tutoring and scholarship opportunities. In 2008, 147 students received scholarships, fellowships and grants-in-aid to help pay for school. The ladies of Gamma Phi Beta pride themselves on the love, loyalty and leadership they express to one another. President of GPB Ashly Spencer said she was having a hard time finding her place at the University until she joined. “Once I became a member of Gamma Phi Beta, I grew as a person and most of all I discovered my individuality,” Spencer said. She explained that while
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“The ladies of GPB
have grown to be more than just my friends, they are truly my sisters.” Courtney Wood
GPB membership vice president she would encourage people to join the organization that is best for them, she believes that GPB offers not just a sense of being a part of a group, but “the highest level of womanhood.” Courtney Wood, membership vice president, still wearing the scars of a recent car accident; explained that during one of the darkest times of her life, she was embraced by her sisters of GPB. “Once the members of Gamma Phi Beta were informed of my accident, they were immediately at my side offering their condolences,” Wood said. “The ladies of Renee Greer | Rambler Staff GPB have grown to be more than just my friends, they are Wesleyan’s Gamma Phi Beta Vice President Courtney Wood and President Ashley Spencer truly my sisters.”
Renee Greer | Rambler Staff Members of Gamma Phi Beta smile for the camera. The recruitment process starts at 6 p.m. Sept. 9 and includes activities such as an information night, crafts and a game night.
Bank experts encourage smart student spending Katie Forstner
The Northern Light/UWire
College is something young people are geared toward since first setting Velcro-clad foot in an elementary school. The pressure of doing well and knowing strengths and weaknesses in a learning community is as consistent as the lunch bell. But, while graduating from college is heavily stressed, the reality of the cost of this expectation is rarely mentioned. “I knew college would be expensive, but how quickly things add up caught me off guard,” U. Alaska-Anchorage student Jillian Lozanoff said. She attends the university on a UA Scholars academic scholarship, an award presented to Alaska high school students graduating in the top 10 percent of their class. It’s no secret that with rising tuition costs, more and more college students are facing astronomical amounts of debt after graduation. Sam Ricketts, an outdoor recreation major from Salt Lake City, Utah, said his rising debt is out of control. “I’m on WUE [Western Undergraduate Exchange], and it blows my mind on how much I have to pay back when I graduate,” Ricketts said. “I try to save ten percent of my paycheck but it’s really tough to do.” The average cost of a fouryear degree in the United States is more than $132,000, according to The College Board. In contrast to the cost of the initial degree, simplyhired.com claims the average annual salary of a college graduate is only $46,000. Tuition and housing costs aside, college students spend a good chunk of their finances on food and fun. “The biggest thing I see students not doing is putting money away in a savings account,” UAA student and Wells Fargo Bank teller Evan Mulcahy said. “A lot of people run pretty high balances on their credit cards.” Focusing on the here and now, and not the long-term picture, seems to trap young
students into large college and credit card debts. Wells Fargo is in close connection with universities and colleges across the country. The bank, like several others, helps students manage their aid packages, acquire low-interest student loans and also offers account counseling for those without financial experience. Hands on Banking, a Wells Fargo financial organization program for college students, presents students with a plan on how to limit frivolous spending. The plan instructs students to keep a calendar record of repaid and received aid. It also encourages students to keep applying for financial aid, grants and scholarships at the end of every school year. In addition to planning college spending, Hands on Banking offers money tips for cash outside college expenses. The program stresses creating a strict spending plan for rent, food, transportation and savings. Students are urged to cut back on small luxuries, such as movie tickets and dining, and put the money towards a bigger purchase such as a plane ticket or car. Wells Fargo advises being cautious with credit cards and recommends applying for part time jobs on and around campus. Also, Hands on Banking suggests exploring tax deductions on student loans. According to the bank, students can receive up to $2500.00 on their tax returns. To keep from owing more than a student can possibly earn, it’s critical to cut the credit cards, be careful with checking accounts and invest in a separate savings account. Financial advisers are readily available at the financial aid office in the Student Union, as well as at banks like Wells Fargo, sometimes for free. Both institutions work closely with students to help them maximize their use of student loans and income. With careful planning and a little discipline, it’s possible to achieve success in college and escape without an insurmountable pile of debt.
5 Arts & Entertainment Wesleyan previews fine arts
The Rambler | www.therambler.org
Chuck Fain
cmfain@mail.txwes.edu
Tired of sitting around watching American Idol reruns? Craving something more out of your entertainment? Need some extra credit for a find arts class? If you’ve answered “yes” to any of these questions, then Wesleyan’s music and theater departments have just what you’re looking for. Each year, Wesleyan’s fine arts programs pour out their creative talents for the Wesleyan family to drink in, so grab a mug and get ready to take a big swig – this is the preview of Wesleyan’s annual fine arts season. Wesleyan’s highly revered music department puts on an excellent show, whether it features classical guitar, a jazz band or festive Christmas carols, the Wesleyan music department delivers. A whole host of concerts and events are planned for the fall season, the following are only highlights. For a complete listing of concerts, visit the music department’s Web site (www.txwes.edu/ music) or The Rambler online (www.therambler.org). 7:30 p.m., Sept. 18, Martin Hall: Guitar Fort Worth and Texas Wesleyan presents the Fourth Annual Alumni Invitational Recital Featuring Mark Appling (07). Enjoy an evening of classical guitar from a Wesleyan Alumnus hosted by North Texas’ premier classical guitar association. 7:30 p.m., Oct. 2, Martin
September 2, 2009
Hall: Fall President’s Council and Music Scholarship Benefit Concert. This one is a Wesleyan tradition hosted by University President Hal Jeffcoat benefitting Wesleyan students. 7:30 p.m., Oct. 29, Martin Hall: Wesleyan Instrumental Department Halloween Concert. Come experience the treat of hauntingly good music. 7:30 p.m., Nov. 3, Martin Hall: Faculty Chamber Music Conference. The talented Wesleyan music staff shows off their chops. 7:30 p.m., Nov. 13, Martin Hall: Senior Recital Concert. Senior April Wilson displays her craft on the piano. 7 p.m., Dec. 4, Polytechnic United Methodist Church: A Festival of Lessons and Carols. Get into the Christmas spirit with some of Wesleyan’s finest carolers. Wesleyan’s theater department is also hard at work to bring quality entertainment to the community. With a new scene shop, new freshmen and the same old Joe (Brown), the Wesleyan thesPhoto courtesy of Texas Wesleyan theater department pians are ready to put on anAshley Mosley and Jeremy Jackson perform during the spring 2009 prodcution of Sweeney Todd. other sensational season. The premier performance will be the racy La Ronde. caused a puritanical outcry mores found even today and play follows Arthur Kipps as joy a good story. The play is “The show’s main theme is when first produced in 1920. reminds us that we all share he and a hired actor recants widely popular, as it ran in how different classes use sex Set in 1890s Vienna, La something in common. The his time spent with the mys- London’s West End for the to manipulate one another,” Ronde goes from one scene show will run Oct. 1-3 and terious woman in black. The past 20 years. The show runs said stage manager and se- to the next, following several 8-11. two unveil dark secrets in the Nov. 12-14 and 19-22. For innior theater major Nick pairs of characters through The next performance to woman’s past – secrets that formation about either show, Mims. their often scandalous ren- haunt the stage will be The should stay buried. ticket and reservation inforWritten by Arthur Schnit- dezvous, coming to a close in Woman in Black. Adapted by This play is for both those mation, call the Wesleyan zler in 1897, this play, named a clever full circle. This bed- Steven Mallatratt from a nov- who love the macabre and box office at (817) 531-4211. Reigen in its native Germany, room farce challenges social el by Susan Hill, this ghostly for those who simply en-
Chuck’s Cheap Thrills
Chuck Fain
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The first week of school is over and if you’re like me, you need already need a drink. But where is the best place to grab a drink for a broke Wesleyan student? Fear not, the research team at Chuck’s Cheap Thrills has done the
Durty Murphy’s. 609 Houston St. (817) 810-9575: With an intimate setting and a friendly atmosphere, Murphy’s was one of my favorites. Smoking is allowed in the bar, and their weekly specials vary. They do feature the all day, every day special of $2 PBR (Pabst Blue Ribbon), which, if you’ve never had one, is a fine beer in my opinion - a very fine beer. • Happy Hour: 4 p.m.-8 p.m. • Monday-Friday. $2.50 wells, $2 domestic, $3 imports, $4 Guinness • $2 PBR, High Life and Schlitz All day.
Fall TV lineup offers favorites, new comers Laurence Sheehan
ljsheehan@mail.txwes.edu
work for you. Recently, I visited several downtown bars to get the low down on their drink specials. Also, to ensure that I wasn’t passing on bogus information to the Wesleyan community, I personally drank at all of them. You’re welcome. Here is the low down on downtown – enjoy. The Flying Saucer. 111 E. Fourth St. (817) 336-7470. beerknurd.com: This is a great place to go for an evening. They have reasonably priced food, beer tasting events and an upstairs patio that provides a scenic view of downtown. They also have a massive beer selection, and will even let you taste-test what’s on tap if you can’t decide. • Sunday: $2.75 Local pints • Monday: $2.75 Almost anything on tap • Wednesday: Brewery Night - Local breweries showing off their wares. Specials vary. Billy Miners Saloon. 150 W. Third St. (817) 877-330. cyberrodeo.com: Miners has a classic bar atmosphere with a two sided pull-up bar, gold rails and plenty of mahogany. They also have a dining area, a reception room and an outside smoking area. • Happy Hour: 4 p.m.-8 p.m. • Monday-Friday. $2 drafts and $2.50 wells • Wednesday: 4 p.m.- 8 p.m. $1.75 Cuervo Margaritas
A look at the best bar deals in town
The Library Bar. 611 Houston St. (817) 885-8201. librarybars.com: The Library has a big, open feel to it. They have pool tables, a large bar with a wide selection and Wesleyan alumni Tanner Scott working behind the bar. “Come in and say, “hi.” Scott said. “We always love to have Wesleyan students in here.” Also, of all the bars visited, The Library had the most generous wells. • Happy Hour: Starts at 4 p.m. o Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Specials vary. • Sunday: $1.50 wells, $1.50 domestic bottles, $3 Long Island Teas • Monday & Tuesday: $1.50 wells, $1.50 domestic drafts • Wednesday & Thursday: $1.50 wells, $1.50 domestics, $2 imports Friday & Saturday: $2.50 you call it until 11 p.m. $3 Long Island Teas The Ozzie Rabbit Lodge. 6463 E. Lancaster. myspace.com/ozzierabbit:
The summer heat breaks, school starts and the ritualistic football season begins – along with fall sweeps. New shows debut, old shows return and several more get canned. CBS returns with the widely popular NCIS, How I met Your Mother, Big Bang Theory and the sexual exploits of Charlie Sheen in Two and Half Men. On CBS’ chopping block this season is 11th hour, a sci-fi drama that has accumulated a small but dedicated fan base in their first (and only) season. Also scheduled to go are Without a Trace about the FBI missing persons divisions and The Unit, which deals with a specialized branch of national security. NCIS: LA, with actors LL Cool J and Chris O’Donnell, is CBS’ most anticipated debut. The drama follows undercover military special agents dedicated to preserving our national security. CBS seems to be following their successful “drama spin-off ” formula, a la the CSI franchise, as NCIS: LA is taken from the already successful NCIS series also running on Photo courtesy of stock.xchng.hu. CBS. People with strange abilities are back when the much an This is one of the coolest bars in ticipated Heroes returns this the Metroplex, and it’s just a short trip fall to NBC with new heroes, east up Lancaster. Ozzie Rabbit has awesome specials, cool atmosphere and new powers and new villains. The Office returns, as does friendly staff. They also have a “sliding its clone Parks and Recreation happy hour” where drinks start out at 50 cents and slide up to $2, so get there starring Amy Poehler of Saturday Night Live fame. The early. Emmy-nominated 30-Rock • Happy Hour: “Sliding happy hour” also returns in hopes that it starts at 3 p.m. with 50 cent wells and has found enough of a niche Shiner drafts. Drinks go up 50 cents to pull in more substantial ratevery hour until hitting $2 at 6 p.m. ings than its previous seasons. Happy hour ends at 7 p.m. Rounding out NBC’s fall • Monday: $2 domestics, $2.50 kamibroadcasting season will kaze shots • Tuesday: $1.50 domestic cans, $4 Jager be Sunday Night Football, though the game won’t sound bombs the same without icon John • Wednesday: $2.50 call drinks Madden calling providing his • Thursday: $1 wells, $2 doubles own special insight. Boom! • Friday: $2.50 Mexican beers, $2.50 Fox has made some Cuervo shots changes to its lineup but re• Saturday: $2 you call it turns with some very familSunday: $1.50 domestic draft, shot iar names and faces. If you specials
like brooding sarcasm, House and Lie to Me air back to back Monday nights. Favorite adult-themed cartoon series like the epic-running The Simpsons and the always offensive Family Guy also make their comeback. Rounding out Fox’s primetime lineup are Glee, Bones, Dollhouse, Fringe and the popular reality show So You Think You Can Dance? “I can’t wait,” said graduate counseling student Jessica Autery. “We always have a watching party at my house for So You Think You Can Dance. It’s the highlight of my week.” Dancing with the Stars, from the producers of So You Think You Can Dance?, waltzes back on the air with all new stars such as form House majority leader Tom DeLay, UFC star Chuck Liddell, and former Dallas Cowboy, Michael Irving. Wanda Sykes also debuts this fall with her own late night show to air on Saturdays. ABC’s fall lineup includes Grey’s Anatomy, Desperate Housewives, Ugly Betty and Private Practice. ABC will also bring to light some new shows such as Cougar Town, starring Courtney Cox as a middle-aged mother out on the prowl. Eastwick, based on the 1987 movie The Witches of Eastwick, also premiers this fall. The show follows three unsatisfied women who are given strange powers by a mysterious stranger. The Deep End, a show about young lawyers being groomed for the business and Flashforward, a mystery about a global event that causes everyone to see into their own future, also premiers on ABC this fall. Other contemporary cult favorites returning this fall are Gossip Girl, One Tree Hill, It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, Nip Tuck and Smallville. For more fall lineup info, visit TV.com or www.therambler. org.
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Sports
September 2, 2009
The Rambler | www.therambler.org
Lady Rams soccer reaches new milestone: ranked 22nd
Volleyball team gets ready for successful season Trisch Doengers
epdoenges@mail.txwes.edu
Photo: Courtesy of the Athletic Department Lady Rams’ Christina Zimmerman celebrates beating after qualifying for nationals.
Joakim Soederbaum
jjsoederbaum@mail.txwes.edu
For the first time ever, the Texas Wesleyan University Lady Rams have been nationally ranked. After receiving votes in the final two ratings last season, the Texas Wesleyan University Lady Rams ended up as No. 22 in this year’s preseason coaches’ poll. The Lady Rams, who have captured three out of the last four Red River Athletic Conference Championships, look to build on the success. “We have been there [nationals] and done that,” head coach Josh Gibbs said. “Now we are looking for consis-
tency. We were only five games away from a national title and must have as a goal to keep raising the bar.” The accomplishment is even more impressing considering that the women’s soccer program saw it first days in 1998 and didn’t even compete in the 2001 season. The last couple of years, the program has seen a rapid development curve. “We are always trying to improve compared to the previous season, and by continually raising the bar, it only makes sense to aim for top 16 now after we made the top 32 last year,” Gibbs said. Two factors that will help the
Lady Rams to further improve are the increased quality of other programs in the conference and a schedule that will prepare the Lady Rams for tougher games. This year, Our Lady of the Lake will add to the competitiveness of the Red River Athletic Conference Championship, and traditionally strong opponents like Oklahoma City and Oklahoma Baptist are other obstacles facing the Lady Rams during the fall. Gibbs looks forward to an intense season despite losing three seniors. “We have brought in 14 top-notch players who all possess the skill to start and contribute to us having our deepest team ever,” he said.
Last year, the Lady Rams won both the Red River Regular Season and Tournament Championships before their season ended after a 2-0 loss at seventh seeded California Baptist University in the first round of the National Championship. Gibbs is determined that last year’s success wasn’t a one-time wonder. “The program has improved every year, and we will continue in the same direction in the future,” he said. Once getting a taste of the national soccer scene, the Lady Rams are looking to establish themselves as competitive regulars among the best programs in the country.
Men’s golf team places second at nationals Daniel Bravo
dabravo@mail.txwes.edu
While most students and faculty were back home enjoying the beginning of their summer vacation, the Texas Wesleyan men’s golf team was still hard at work. After placing first in a National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) Qualifier Tournament in late April, the team qualified for the 58th NAIA Men’s Golf National Championship, which took place in Silvis, Ill., May 19-22. The Rams, ranked 18th nationally going into the tournament, were considered underdogs throughout most of the year. At the tournament, they placed second overall as a team, while Junior Armando Villarreal placed second
individually. The second place finish was nothing new to the Rams, who have a long-standing tradition of producing great golf teams and individual players. However, the team hadn’t reached this level of success since the 1998 season when the team brought home an Individual Championship. Over the years, the team has produced six national titles, which is a tie for the most national titles in golf by any one institution. Aside from the great golfing weather and the superb golf courses North Texas offers, Kevin Millikan, Texas Wesleyan’s athletic director and last year’s head coach, credits Wesleyan’s success to good coaching and dedicated players such as Villarreal.
Upcoming Sports
Game
Time/Place
Saturday
Women’s Soccer vs. Oklahoma Baptist Men’s Soccer vs. Oklahoma Baptist
5:30 p.m. Wesleyan 7:30 p.m. Wesleyan
Sunday
Women’s Soccer vs. Schreiner Men’s Soccer vs. Schreiner
1 p.m. Wesleyan 3 p.m. Wesleyan
Tuesday
Women’s Soccer vs. Oklahoma City Men’s Soccer vs. Oklahoma City
5 p.m. Wesleyan 7 p.m. Wesleyan
Wednesday Volleyball vs.
Texas Woman’s
7 p.m. Denton
“I owe a lot to my parents, especially my mother and father.” Greg Norman Pro Golfer
“He (Villarreal) is a very tainly gained methodical player,” Millikan valuable exsaid. “He’s very consistent and perience and makes a lot of good decisions confidence for on the golf course.” the upcoming The team looks to build season. on last year’s success by re”By far, this turning nine out of 12 golf- is one of the ers and bringing in three new most rewardfreshmen. ing experiencMillikan expects Wesleyan es I’ve had as to be mentioned among the a coach,” Miltop-10 or even the top-five likan said. teams when the NAIA preseason polls are released in early December. By then, the team would have already Armando played a handful of tournaVillarreal finished ments. Millikan said by that time, he will have a good feel second individually. as to what kind of team the Rams will have. The team might not have Photo: Courtesy of the Athletic brought home the first place Department hardware last year but cer-
Wesleyan week-in-sports • The Lady Rams Soccer team beat Wayland Baptist University (3-0) Aug. 28 and Ouachita Baptist University (6-2) Aug. 30. • The Rams Soccer team beat Wayland Baptist University (2-1) in double over time Aug. 28 and followed up with a win against Ouachita Baptist University (3-1) Aug. 30. • The Lady Rams Volleyball team recovered after losing the first two games against University of Arkansas Fort Smith (0-3) and Oklahoma Baptist University (0-3). On Aug. 29 they beat Southern Nazarene University (3-2) to record their first win of the season.
Head coach Christy Clawson anticipates the Lady Rams volleyball team to have a successful year. “The girls are beginning this season on a better footing both mentally and physically,” she said. In addition to the relatively young group of players at her disposal last year, Clawson has brought on several new recruits. The eight returning players will be accompanied by freshmen Christina Daniel, middle blocker; Devin Warren, middle blocker: Carleigh Dollar, outside hitter; and setter Angelica Arroyo. In addition, currently injured junior transfer Brooke Shelton, an All-American selection and Most Valuable Player of the NJCAA Division III National Tournament last season, led Brookhaven College to a National Championship. Clawson said Shelton is expected to be back in play by the conference playoffs. Another junior transfer, Kaitlyn Lowes, was recruited from Tarleton State University where she played for two years. Clawson also enhanced the team’s training repertoire by adding strength and conditioning coach Robert Brown to the staff. Clawson saw last year as a time of rebuilding for the Lady Rams, as the team was younger and less experienced than present. She said the freshmen arriving this year have already played on a more competitive level. Aware of the tough competition, Clawson is looking forward to a challenging but rewarding year. “UT Brownsville and Wiley College are both expected to be competitive as they’ve recruited lots of international students, but this season our girls are a year older and more mature compared to last year. Taking one set at a time, Clawson said the goal is to win conference and qualify for nationals. “I anticipate a good season,” she said.
“Our girls are a year older and more mature compared to last year.” Christy Clawson Head Coach
Next week: Rams and Lady Rams soccer gear up for another season
Photo: Laura Rosser Three of many new soccer players at Wesleyan: Sean Maloney, Tyler Keith, and Roberto Campuzano.