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Tennessee Tech University | Cookeville, TN | 38505

RACLE

Volume 93 | Issue 1 | February 5, 2010

Smoke free, tobacco free Tech PRESS RELEASE Art by BRANIMIR RAKIC As of Jan. 1, students, faculty, staff and all visitors will no longer be allowed to smoke or use any tobacco products in university buildings and grounds, TTU affiliated offcampus locations and facilities, and all state vehicles. Previously, smoking was restricted to outdoor areas at least 25 feet beyond exterior doors. But now smoking outdoors on campus will not be allowed. Tobacco usage will be permitted only in private vehicles. Douglas Airhart, a member of TTU’s building and grounds committee, said the new policy resulted from a grassroots effort from TTU community members who had visited other college campuses with no-smoking, no-tobacco policies. “The university made the decision to promote a healthy, sanitary environment free from all smoke and tobaccorelated debris,” Airhart said. Sean Ochsenbein, TTU’s SGA president and a student TBR member, said many students he’s talked to support the new policy. All 36 SGA senators voted to support the initiative. “This is the right move at the right time for Tennessee Tech,” said Ochsenbein. “We

New TBR plan will reshape core curricula By JENDA WILSON Staff Writer

are leading the way in creating a healthy environment for students. Government and private agencies have documented second-hand smoke as a cancer-causing agent, and there’s no reason we shouldn’t be a tobacco-free campus.” Other Tennessee Board of Regents universities have similar policies. East Tennessee State University and TTU are the only two “no-smoking, no-tobacco” campuses. TTU Human Resources, Health Services and Counseling Center offer information to those who may wish to stop using tobacco.

Students, staff sound off about new tobacco policy “It’s nice to walk into a building without having to hold my breath anymore.” -- Will Housley, Assistant Managing Editor

“There was no smooth way of [enforcing] it. In terms of ten feet or twenty feet away from the building, people still complain about it.” -- Ed Boucher, Dean of Students referring to the old tobacco policy

“I like the ban because I’m sick of smoke being blown in my face when I walk out of a building. But an all-out ban seems a little extreme.” -- Scott Lucas, junior computer science information technology major

“If you’re over 18, the United States deems it legal to smoke. How can Tech say you can’t?”

“The ban has made the stigma surrounding smokers worse. I’m conscious about how I smell like smoke.” -- Joy Buongiono, junior biology major

“There should be smoking areas.” -- Courtney Clifford, senior public relations major

“I don’t like it. It reduces workplace productivity because I have to walk to my vehicle just for a smoke.” -- Tech employee who wished to remain anonymous

“I’m a smoker, but I think [the ban] is a good thing...just so I don’t have to smell it.” -- Crystal Jackson, sophomore education major

-- Erik Petersen, sophomore business major

The consensus among surveyed students is that there should be designated smoking areas, such as parking lots and North Patio. By CHRISTINE SEIBER Managing Editor

>> Career Services starts semester with resume workshop >> Tech students turn to armed forces for employment >> Outstanding Tech Alumni to be recognized

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IN THIS EDITION Rifle team heads to OVC championship - Page 5 Movie Talk: Edge of Darkness - Page 8

SPORTS

ENTERTAINMENT

Tech will soon be implementing several changes across campus—some occurring as early as next semester—as part of a massive overhaul of Tennessee’s higher education. This fall, students at Tech—or any other four-year college—will not be able to take any developmental classes taught by the University. Instead, students will be able to take them at local community colleges while still being enrolled at Tech. “We would like for students who must enroll in remedial or developmental classes to be able to take these classes on campus, they will just be taught by a professor from a local community college,” President Bob Bell said. “They would still be considered a student at Tech and would still be able to live and participate on campus. They would also be students at a local community college, similar to a dual enrollment.” Bell hopes that this proposal for students to attend both types of higher education will foster partnerships between the University and local community colleges like Volunteer State in Livingston or Nashville State in Cookeville. If a student at a two-year school decided to enroll at

Tech, they would tell their adviser, who would then contact the University. Depending on that student’s area of study, Tech would then assign them an adviser who would educate them on what core classes to take, which credits will transfer, and what their class schedule would be like once they transferred as a junior. This partnered system is designed to make transferring between a community college and Tech more seamless and cohesive. Transferring from another four-year school to Tech is predicted to be easier because of the implementation of a statewide master plan. This plan, currently in the formation process, will help each school emphasize its academic strengths while reducing overlapping or competing degree offerings. It will also create a standardized general education core of 41 hours, which all universities in the University of Tennessee and TBR systems must agree upon. “It will help make all of us in the University of Tennessee and Tennessee Board of Regents systems clear on what will be allowed to transfer,” Bell said. “This should help clear up a lot of the confusion that can arise when a student tries to transfer across systems.” Bell went on to speculate See “TBR“, page 6

Campus bus service to arrive at Tech mid-month PRESS RELEASE Students will soon be able to hop on a bus to get to class, go to the movie theater and go shopping when the city’s new bus service begins in February. The best part? Rides are free with a TTU student I.D. The service—called CATS or the Cookeville Area Transit System—is part of a new city bus service offered by the Upper Cumberland Human Resource Agency. The Purple Route, dedicated to campus, the Cookeville Regional Medical Center area and Tech Village, will wind its way around campus and offer seven stops, plus flag down areas, for Tennessee Tech students. During the day, students can transfer to the Green Route, the main city route, to go to restaurants, shopping centers, grocery stores and other popular locations. The transfer point will be located on the Purple Route stop at CRMC on Cedar Avenue. On evenings and weekends, Green Route adds stops at the movie theater, TTU’s

Clement Hall and hotels located near Bunker Hill Road. Purple Route stops are marked with CATS signs; the bus also will stop in areas where the speed limit is less than 20 mph if a student waves for service. Look for the bus with cat ears and whiskers on the front. The colorfully wrapped buses will also sport a TTU logo. Buses will run from 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday and until 11 p.m. on Friday. Saturday service will be from 3 p.m. until 11 p.m. Buses will not run on Sunday. Students must show a TTU I.D. in order to ride at no charge. Without an I.D., the ride is $1. This service is provided to current TTU students as a part of their oncampus housing and campus access benefits. In addition, faculty and staff can ride for free. CATS will begin operation in mid-February. For more information and regularly updated bus routes, visit www.uchra.com/cats. See page 6 for a map of the Purple Route

Booker, Townsend face off on tobacco policy - Page 2

EDITORIAL & OPINION

OPINION

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Page 2 | February 5, 2010

Atmosphere is better with tobacco ban EMILY BOOKER Editorial Editor Walking across South Patio the other day, I took a deep breath, glad my nose and lungs were full of crisp winter air instead of burning tobacco. As a non-smoker, the tobacco ban on campus means no more holding my breath as I dash through a cluster of smokers on my way to class. But the ban was not created just for my breathing pleasure. It was implemented because tobacco is a substance that is a health hazard and has no place on campus (except of course, personal vehicles, and I would suggest keeping the windows rolled up). People over the age of 18 have every right to purchase, chew, and smoke tobacco. But the university also has a right to limit where on campus tobacco is allowed. Many colleges have banned tobacco on their campuses in the past few years. According to USA Today, the number of schools with a total smoking ban has tripled since 2007. Tech has made this move in efforts to make the campus and its students healthier. Aren’t people always complaining that the university doesn’t care about student? Well here is proof that it does. An activity such as smoking does not affect the user alone. Secondhand smoke affects all of those close by, not to mention leaves a smoky smell lingering in the air and on personal items. If a smoker doesn’t mind the unhealthy habit, it can pursue it where it doesn’t interfere with everyone else’s learning atmosphere. Earlier rules already banned smoking around buildings, specifically 25 feet away from doorways so others could come and go without unwillingly inhaling sec-

• Send Letters to the Editor to oracle@tntech.edu, TTU Box 5072 or tntechoracle.com/home/ lettertotheeditor.

• Letters are edited for grammar but not for content. Please limit letters to 300 words in length. Anonymous letters are not accepted. Deadline for letters is 4 p.m. Tuesday. Signs posted on doors remind everyone on campus that all tobacco products are banned.

ondhand smoke. This rule was not always followed by some, which is perhaps why there is now a stricter ban. It will also be effective in reducing a particular type of litter on campus. I know there are plenty of smokers who are courteous enough to not toss their cigarette butts on the ground, but a lot do. What is it that makes a discarded butt less of a crime than a candy wrapper or paper cup? Nothing. And the ban will reduce cigarette butts littered on the steps of dorms and across South Patio. I know I have been focusing more on smokers than chewers, and that’s because it’s the smoke that sticks to my clothes and irritates my nose. But both are unhealthy habits, and the university does not have to accommodate for it. I can only hope the ban will help some smokers and chewers break their habits before their health suffers further. In case you haven’t heard, tobacco use is hazardous to your health. A 2004 Study by the CDC’s National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion found that cigarette smoke contains at least 69 chemicals which are known to cause cancer. Approximately 440,000 Americans die each year

from smoking-related problems, many of them long, painful respiratory illness. Chewers face different but just as serious problems. Oral and throat cancer affects 30,000 Americans a year, and only have survived more than five years after being diagnosed. For those lucky enough to escape cancer, there is tooth and gum decay and damage to the bone structure of the jaw. Polonium 210, formaldehyde, nicotine, cadmium, cyanide, arsenic, benzene, and lead are found in tobacco products. Remember the ruckus about lead found in children’s toys from China? Imagine eating that lead with about 100 different toxins daily. Why should the university condone such self-distructive behavior? People over the age of 21 can purchase and consume alcohol, but alcohol is also banned on campus. Weapons are also banned, whether they even if they are purchased legally. The tobacco ban is no different. It’s not to punish smokers and chewers. It’s to make campus a cleaner, healthier place to learn. So take a deep, fresh breath and enjoy a tobaccofree campus.

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Welcome to our choice-free campus SARAH TOWNSEND It is widely believed that this

ing that any individual PEL would be exceeded.” Asst. Editorial Editor If you still don’t buy the idea that under certain levels secondhand smoke is relativeThere have been many ly safe for non-smokers, think unanswered questions about about the fact that emissions the new tobacco-free policy from the cars on campus pose that came into effect here at much more of a health risk Tech on Jan. 1 of the New than second-hand smoke. Year. A number of students I The risk of cancer from know smoke, therefore I have secondhand smoke is sigheard a lot of complaints first nificantly lower than that of hand. No tobacco use is alexposure to pollutants from lowed on campus, except in a our gas tanks. Benzene is a personal vehicle. highly toxic pollutant present Tech isn’t the only school in fuel emissions. In fact, 90% prohibiting tobacco, accordof air pollution’s cancer risks ing to the tobacco informacome from motor vehicles tion page on the according to the university webAlternative Fuels site. Tech is simWe are college students capable Institute. ply following of making our own decisions and As for pasother Board of sive tobacco use, taking responsibility for the health Regents universities, such as chewing consequences that may result. as well many private tobacco or “dip”, and public universities it is really across the nation. unknown -- Sarah Townsend Most of which do why this Asst. Editorial Editor not provide students is not perwith a designated mitted on smoking area. Why is it such a difficult campus. Of course smokFirstly, how can this rule task to have smoking areas? ing causes offense due to the really be enforced campus Because it is commonly be- health risks of second-hand wide? Tech police can’t be lieved that secondhand smoke smoke. However, chewing everywhere at once, and I’d at any level on campus will tobacco has zero effect on the hope they’d be more con- affect the health of students. air quality and produces no cerned about the safety of the Though anyone can cross the health risks to anyone other students and staff than catch- street and smoke legally, it than the person partaking ing people with cigarettes. wouldn’t be any different to actively. Secondly, many students smoke on campus in a desigUsing tobacco is a persondo not own a personal vehi- nated section except it would al choice not the decision of cle, which means they need be much more convenient. the University which we pay to walk to a public place to I did a little research on to attend and live within the smoke. It is fair to move away secondhand smoke to deter- facilities. It is a requirement from doors to prevent second- mine at what distance some- to live on campus until junior hand smoke exposure to non- one could smoke without year unless you are a comsmokers, asthmatic people, negatively affecting the health muter who lives at home. and pregnant women. of non-smokers in the area. If you are legally an adult, However, smoking outIn a letter to Leroy J. it is outrageous to be told to side in the open air away from Pletten, Greg Watchman from smoke elsewhere when you passerby on campus should OSHA states, “Field stud- must live on campus. not be a privilege. It’s a social ies of environmental tobacco We aren’t in middle liberty says Alyssa Stanford, a smoke indicate that under school. We are college stufreshman who states, “I com- normal conditions, the com- dents capable of making our pletely understand the health ponents in tobacco smoke own decisions and taking rehazards that correlate with it are diluted below existing sponsibility for the health con[tobacco use] however Tech Permissible Exposure Levels sequences that may result. didn’t provide me or other (PELS.) as referenced in the smokers with a shelter or des- Air Contaminant Standard ignated area.” (29 CFR 1910.1000)...It would The official No Smoking This policy is prohibit- be very rare to find a work- and Tobacco-Free ing students from making place with so much smok- Campus Policy may be their own personal choices.

“

rule is to make students quit smoking. In fact, the web site provides an 800 number for people having trouble quitting. Yes, people should be outside, and of course no one should be subjected to second-hand smoke. I understand that smoking is a dangerous habit and causes serious health problems. Personally, I am not condoning tobacco use. However, a designated smoking area on campus where students can smoke outside is a very reasonable suggestion.

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read in its entirety on the Tech Web site.

Weekly. Student operated. | P.O. Box 5072 Tennessee Tech University, Cookeville, TN 38505

CHRISTINE SEIBER Managing Editor

SARAH TOWNSEND Asst. Editorial Editor

WILL HOUSLEY Asst. Managing Editor

BRANDON GOODWIN Sports Editor

SARA BOHANNON Ad Manager

JAMES SCHIERMEYER Asst. Sports Editor

ALLISON WHEELER DIANA CARSON Ad Assistants

CHUCK ACHESON Entertainment Editor

EMILY BOOKER Editorial Editor

TALLULAH GILLIAM BAILEY DARROW Copy Editors

Tennessee Technological University--nondiscriminatory on the basis of sex in its educational programs and activities including employment and admission of students to the University as required by Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972 and regulations based therein and published in CFR, part 86. Tennessee Technological University is an Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer.

BRENDA WILSON, Faculty Adviser BEAT REPORTERS: Erica Betschart, Ellie Boles, Courtney Clifford, Matt Davis,

Justin Duke, Casey Elrod, Jordan Farrell, Darrel Ferris, Christina Gillim, Kayla Gulley, Karla Hammac, Hannah Harris, Ross Harvey, Lauren Huxford, Brandon Jelson, Christopher Jones, Dhir Joshi, Jonathan Kaulay, Samantha Kendall, David Lane, Gerilyn Lemons, Leasa McCall, Amber McCarty, Amanda Miller, Bailey Morgan, Aleksandr Peterson, Jonathan Pierce, Ashlee Polk, Brittney Robinson, Nicholas Rollins, Jessica Smith, Brandon Stephenson, Evan Taylor, Laura Vaught, Dakota Weatherford, Geri Anna Wilson, Jenda Wilson

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Page 3 | February 5, 2010

Vandalism incidents rise on campus By WILL HOUSLEY Asst. Managing Editor

Courtesy of University Police

Tech police are searching for suspects and looking for ways to prevent future vandalism after responding to two incidents in one morning. According to a Tech police report filed on Jan. 26, a faculty member found graffiti in the east stairwell of Foster Hall, between the second and third floors at approximately 7:35 a.m.. A similar incident was reported at Memorial Gym at 7:03 a.m..

Upon further investigation, Lt. Donald Frazier found a portrait of a face on a hallway wall on the third floor and another on the door of a residence hall room on the first floor. “We believe they are tied together,” he said. “They were all the same color paint and same type of graffiti.” Since the beginning of the semester, four reports of vandalism have been filed. Frazier stated that it is among the top reported crimes on campus. He said he is adamant about finding the responsible party because clean up of the

damages is paid for out of student fees. “Vandalism is a growing problem on campus, a few months ago [Sept. 19] we found gang signs on generators near the old nursing building and Cookeville police found the same signs at the Regional Health Center,” Frazier said. Several students filed reports last semester that their vehicles had foul words and pictures painted on them. Yet another complainant reported that a larger group of cars and some campus property had been defaced.

At least six more vehicles had been vandalized with the same type of paint on North Whitney Avenue. Cookeville police then reported that The Regional Health building, along with brick enclosures, sidewalks, and electrical boxes, was painted on as well. To report evidence, contact Tech police at (931) 3723234, or stop by the police department at 845 N. Dixie Ave. The Putnam County Crime Stoppers office is offering a reward for any information leading to the arrest of the responsible party. It can be reached at (931) 520 - STOP (7867).

As of press time, the graffiti in Foster Hall has not been removed. For official campus crime updates, visit www.tntech.edu/police/ police-crimelogs.

events @ tech February

09 11 a.m Free photo key chains, Valentine cookies RUC, first floor

10 Last day to participate in Resume E.R. Prescott Hall, second floor conference room

11 5:30 p.m. Women’s Basketball v. Murray State 7 - 9 p.m. Eyes on the Prize: America at the Racial Crossroads, 1965-1985 Volpe Library, rm. 110 7:30 p.m. Men’s Basketball v. Murray State

13 5:30 p.m. Women’s Basketball v. UT Martin 7:30 p.m. Men’s Basketball v. UT Martin

14 2 p.m. Holly Sanders: Bassoon Recital BFA, Wattenbarger Auditorium

-- tntech.edu/calendar

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SPORTS

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Page 4 | February 5, 2010

Pack The House and Think Pink Thursday night PRESS RELEASE

A “perfect storm” could be brewing for basketball fans Thursday night which would rock Eblen Center. It could mean huge, deafening waves of noise that threaten to sink mighty Murray State. And, Tech students can be the big winners in the stands in addition to the basketball teams on the floor. “We have many, many things planned for Thursday night, and everything is being especially geared toward Tech’s students,” said Misty Pearson, TTU Director of Corporate Sales. “It should make for a really fun night and two great basketball games.” Tech’s attendance numbers have been growing in the past few weeks, especially the support of students who have been turning out with high levels of spirit in a quest of cash prizes while supporting the Golden Eagle teams. The Golden Eagles have responded with some of their best play of the season, including a four-game win streak for the men’s team and a 7-3 home record for the young women’s team. Murray State, meanwhile, comes to town as the hottest men’s team in the OVC – one of the hottest in the nation. The Racers are currently the only 20-game winner in the league and have won 17 OVC games in a row. Like the movie that told the tragic tale of several Maine fishermen, those three ingredients could combine to form a “perfect storm” of

Golden Eagle support to subdue both Murray State teams when they visit for an OVC doubleheader. “Our student fans have been sensational the past few weeks,” said men’s head coach Mike Sutton. “There’s no question that they have been the “sixth man” for our team. They have been enthusiastic and noisy, and they’ve really helped create an atmosphere of excitement. Seeing and hearing fans get into the game is one of the best things about college basketball.” To help add to the excitement, the Athletics Department is hosting two special events that night. Both are national initiatives by the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association, and are supported by the Tech women’s staff and team. It will be “Pack The House” Night as each women’s team attempts to break its own school attendance record. The largest crowd to watch a Tech women’s game is 6,113 (vs. Middle Tennessee in 1990), so it will take a massive effort from the student body, the Tech community, and the Cookeville area fans to top that mark. Women’s basketball first-year head coach Sytia Messer has also selected the game against Murray State on Thursday to be Tech’s “Think Pink” Night, an effort to help increase awareness of breast cancer in order to save lives. “These are all important games for our team right now,” Messer said. “The ‘Pack The House’ promotion

Students cheering for Frank Davis, who recently scored his 1,000th career point.

is important for our team, and we’re looking forward to a great turnout. “The other event ‘Think Pink’ – is so important because raising awareness for the latest developments in breast cancer research and treatment, that’s obviously more important than the game itself,” she said. “The larger the crowd that night, the greater the number of people who will have the opportunity to learn something that could save lives. “Every one of our players and coaches is excited about the opportunity to play a role in ‘Think Pink’,” Messer said. Fans are encouraged to wear pink to the game in increase visibility of the color associated with finding a cure for the disease. The Golden Eagle players will be wearing pink pregame warm-ups and pink shoelaces. Every fan into the arena will receive a gift from Chick-fil-A, ranging from free food items to stuffed

cows. A special promotion during the game will also allow one TTU student a chance to win free Chick-filA meals for a year. Another Athletics sponsor, US Cellular will pass out free rally towels to fans and also have an on-court promotion for a Tech student. All promotions throughout the game will be geared toward Tech students, ranging from the Wendy’s Meal or No Meal to Pepsi’s Are You A Rock Star. There will also be the customary cash drop into the stands plus the popular $250 cash prize for the student group exhibiting the most spirit. Student groups are asked to bring a sign or banner identifying them as a group, and to be in the stands no later than halftime of the women’s game. At the most recent home games, student groups have made a huge difference in the atmosphere. One group of male students has come shirtless and painted up, making

Track team opens season

Golden Eagles stay close to home; only one match out of state By ERIKA BETSCHART

Staff Writer

The Tech track team will open its season Saturday in Nashville at the Tennessee State University Indoor Invite. The start time has yet to be determined, but the match will take place at the Wilma Rudolph Indoor Track at the Gentry Center.

Sophomore Emily Weinzetl said, “The team has been working out since the second day of school in August. We pretty much use the entire year to prepare for the season.” This year, Tech will be hosting the Ohio Valley Conference championship at the end of April. The Golden Eagles rarely get the opportunity to compete on their home track. “I think it’s really great, especially for the teammates that are graduating this year,” said Weinzetl. “I’m hoping that it will bring in more money for the program and let people know

what we are actually doing. We’re just kind of there to everyone else, so now that we will be competing on campus I’m hoping that it will help the team a lot,” said Weinzetl. Tech placed the bar high at last season’s OVC Championships and looks to continue to shatter school records. Last year Weinzetl, along with Keri Light, Tiffany Palmer and Stephanie Place, set a new school record for distance medley with a mark of 12:21.09. “My main goal is to be able to score at the conference meet; that’s what makes scholarships go up. It’s better for the team and of course it makes coach happy,” said Weinzetl.

Just a Bit Outside By JAMES SCHIERMEYER

Assistant Sports Editor

Tech’s athletic department recently offered a cash prize for students to attend university sporting events. The most supportive group display at the remaining home basketball games would win $250 to use at their discretion. While I applaud the efforts of administrators and staff members to increase athletic event attendance, I found myself wondering why Tech’s students needed help supporting their fellow student-athletes in the first place. My first semester on campus, I was amazed at the support provided to our athletes. Opponents knew

they were in hostile territory when it would blizzard toilet paper across the floor. Cheers, chants and taunts were started by the student section, and they didn’t quit the entire contest. You had to scream in order to hear the person next to you because the noise was so deafening. The Eblen Center should be packed for every home game, men and women. Tucker Stadium should shake with the amount of noise coming from the student section. The Averitt Express Baseball Complex should be heard for miles during each home game. We need to make every

other Ohio Valley Conference school tremble in fear when they see @ Tech on the schedule. We have the opportunity to start something great. Together we can make Tech the most hostile venue in the OVC. Neyland Stadium was not built with 100,000 plus fans already inside. The Cameron Crazies didn’t just happen overnight. There was a conscience effort made by the students and alumni to create the best atmosphere possible for their athletes to succeed. We can bring an atmosphere to Cookeville that will make every other OVC school jealous of our fans.

We need to begin a new tradition of overwhelming athletic support, and not just for a half either. It’s a hollow victory when an entire student body leaves after halftime like last year’s football homecoming game. There were as many if not more Tennessee State fans in our stadium, IN OUR STADIUM, because most of the student section left after halftime and homecoming court announcements. We should have all been ashamed for abandoning our fellow classmates, our student-athletes that represent us. There are three more doubleheaders left for student groups to come support their Golden Eagles this basketball season. Three more chances to win money. More importantly, three opportunities to alert the OVC that the Eblen Center is back and ready to rock.

lots of noise in the seating sections just above the Tech Pep Band. At the Austin Peay game, the students’ many stomachs spelled out “Tennessee Tech University: We’re going to beat the Peay out of you” and at another game, al of them were painted with a “30” and facial hair in tribute to senior Frank Davis as he broke a school record. Other groups have been just as visible and just as loud in claiming the prize, which is awarded in the final minutes of the men’s contest.

Photo by Tony Marable

The doors of Eblen Center will be open at 4:30 p.m. Thursday, with the women’s game scheduled to begin at 5:30 p.m. Both games will also be taped by WCTE TV with delayed telecast later that night. Tech students are admitted free to all regular season home games with a valid TTU ID. For questions regarding Pack The House Night or Think Pink, or for ticket information, contact the Athletics Department at 372-3940.

Tech’s Bragga named Coach of the Year Jones. “You have to have team Assistant Sports Editor success to have individual achievements,” Bragga said. The Tennessee Baseball “I’m very fortunate to be surCoaches Association named rounded by a great coaching Tennessee Tech baseball coach Matt Bragga the Coach staff that deserves a lot of credit also.” of the Year at their annual Known for their solid awards luncheon last month. “I am absolutely honored fundamental play, the Golden Eagles increased their by this award,” Bragga said. win total each season from “It can’t happen without the 2005 to 2008 before capturguys on the field. You have ing the OVC title in to have the right 2009. Their success pieces in place on the field has also and a great team carried over to the effort in order to classroom as 19 playwin an individual ers were named to award.” last year’s Athletic The Golden Director’s Honor Eagles won Roll and five to the the Ohio ValOVC Commissionley Conference er’s Honor Roll. Tournament and The college baseeliminated #14 Bragga ball season starts Alabama in the later this month and Clemson Regional Tech will embrace a new last season, before finishing role, the hunted. 31-24-1. It was the fifth time “It’s one of those things in history a Golden Eagles’ that shows our program is baseball team finished with continuing to make huge more than 30 wins and the strides,” Bragga said. second consecutive season, The first home stand is a Tech first. Tech had two Feb. 26-28 against Cleveland players named to the allState and admission is free to OVC team, and six on the every home game throughall-tournament team includout the season. ing tourney MVP A.J. KirbyBy JAMES SCHIERMEYER

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Page 5 | February 5, 2010

Spring Intramurals underway By BRITTNEY ROBINSON

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The railings in memorial gym are very dangerous when you throw the ball over Christmas break is over and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to and the students try and retrieve the ball,â&#x20AC;? start another semester of Intramurals. With Gregory said. basketball already in play, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not too late to Gregory said that Intramurals will have sign up for the remainder of the spring sports. a three game season and every team will go This semesterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lineup includes basketball, ul- to the playoffs. timate frisbee, softball, table tennis, dodge ball, Dodge ball sign ups will be on Feb. 10. wrestling, Professional Fraternities Religious Wrestling will be a weekend tournament Groups bowling and golf. and will be held at the fitness center. The â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have more teams this semester than deadline to be signed up and weighed in will they did in the fall,â&#x20AC;? Intramural coordinator is March 1. Darren Gregory said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Especially in basketThe deadline for softball sign up is ball.â&#x20AC;? March 3 and the deadline for Ultimate FrisArena football and indoor soccer, two of bee is March 24. the most popular sports are being taken out of Students have until April 6 to sign up Intramurals due to liability issues. for bowling.

Staff Writer

Spring Intramurals Deadline to register

Courtesy of OVCSports.com

Rifle team shoots for fourth OVC Championship in past ten years By LEAH MEFFERT

Contributor Tennessee Tech looks to break the streak of five consecutive Ohio Valley Conference rifle championships by the Jacksonville State Gamecocks this weekend at the 2010 OVC Rifle Championship competition. The two-day event, which takes place tomorrow and Sunday, will be held on the campus of Murray State University in Murray, KY. Along with the Golden Eagles, teams from Jacksonville State, Morehead State, Murray State, and UTMartin will compete for the Championship. The roster contains seven members under head coach Steve Law. The Rifle team has participated in three

invitationals this season and six regular competitions. A tournament was also played at Jacksonville State University in late November. Tech also hosted the 19th annual James Newkirk Invitational, where it placed fourth overall. In November 2009, Austin Litherland was named OVC Rifle Athlete of the Month. Litherland is a junior from St. Francisville, La. and shot, 578, 581, 585, 589, and 576 in Tennessee Techâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s competitions this year. He improved on his high scores three consecutive weeks to lead the Golden Eagles. His 589 in air rifle is a career high. During the competition on January 30-31 against Ole

Miss and West Virginia, senior Curtis Gagne fired a season-high 578, just five points off his career best. Austin Litherland was next for the Golden Eagles with a 576 air rifle total, followed by Jessica McCauley with a 569 and Jonathan Zimmerer at 563. The score for McCauley and Zimmerer was a season-high, and Zimmererâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s established a new career-best. In the 2009-2010 Collegiate Rifle Coaches Association poll, Tech was ranked 27th out of a total 29 teams. UT Martin ranks 24th, Morehead Sate 25th, and Jacksonville State 26th. Murray State leads the ranking in 10th place. The competition is set to begin tomorrow at 8 a.m. CT.

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Limited time offer. Minimum purchase, which may vary by location, is required for delivery. Prices and participation may vary. Not all Menu items are $5. Tax extra. 1.10 lbs. avg. weight of post-baked Classic Pâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ZoneÂŽ. Meaty and Pepperoni weights may vary. The Pizza Hut name, logos and related marks are trademarks of Pizza Hut, Inc. ÂŠ 2010 Pizza Hut, Inc. 32435_0115NP_TNTECH

Season begins

Dodgeball

Feb. 10

Feb. 15

Wrestling

March 1

March 2

Softball

March 3

March 15

Ultimate Frisbee

March 24

March 29

Bowling

April 6

April 8

Golf

April 14

April 17

*Indoor soccer and arena football will not be played this year

4th and Long BY BRANDON GOODWIN

Sports Editor bagoodwin21@tntech.edu

Techâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s women deserve much more respect than students give them Students, do you know we have a womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s basketball team? Do you know that they are currently in the hunt for the Ohio Valley Conference championship? Do you know they play right before the menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team? If you answered yes to any of the above questions, please answer this one: Why do you refuse to attend the womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s games? At the last womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home game, there were around five students in attendance for tip-off. Pathetic. At the Eastern Illinois menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s game last month, a group of students came out with the number â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;30â&#x20AC;&#x2122; painted on their chests to honor Frank Davis as he went for 1,000 career points. Why canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t you show this kind of support for the womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team? I want to see students with the number â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;21â&#x20AC;&#x2122; painted on them for Tacarra Hayes who has been on a tear (see below). I want to see students painted up to spell out something to the effect of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been COOKEDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; to support Kellie and Kylie Cook and Katy Cooke. Last Saturday, during the menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s game, womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s coach Sytia Messer came into the student section asking the students to come to the womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s game. I heard numerous students saying â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Oh coach, I was here for the womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gameâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Liars. What are your excuses? Are you too busy? No. I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t even want to hear that. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m taking 20 hours of classes and working three jobs. I am at every game, yet you say you

Whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hot? &

Î&#x161;Î&#x161;Î¨

Tacarra Hayes. The sophomore guard has averaged 23.5 points and seven rebounds over the last four games. -ANDKappa Kappa Psi. The KKY fraternity won the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Most Spirited Student Groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; contest, taking home $250. The classy members of the fraternity then donated their entire prize to the American Cancer Society for Relay for Life.

canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t even make it to one? I know several seniors who have never attended any Tech sporting event. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s understandable if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like sports, but what about those of you who will drive to Knoxville to watch some convicts play basketball? Why wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t you come watch a first-class group of young ladies (your classmates) give everything theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got on the court? Lastly, be loud. I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t understand why the students who are there just sit there in silence. Thursday night, February 11th, is Think Pink and Pack the House night. Tech hosts rival Murray State. I challenge each and every one of you to come out for both - not just one - games. Tip-off for the womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s game is at 5:30. Yes, you can come after the game starts, but come. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t come for the money, come for these athletes who deserve your respect. Have something to say about this? Visit tntechoracle.com to leave me some feedback. I leave you with my quote of the week:

â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was so quiet you could hear a rat pee on cotton.â&#x20AC;? - Reggie Miller, describing his game-winning shot against the Suns

Whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Not?

Î&#x161;ÎŁ The brothers of Kappa Sig. At the basketball game against Southeast Missouri, Kappa Sig got second-place in the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Most Spirited Student Groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; contest. As soon as they received their money, these guys left, with five minutes remaining in the game. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bad enough theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re paying you to come to the game, the least you could do is stay for all of it.

NEWS

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Page 6 | February 5, 2010

TBR CONTINUED from page 1 that schools across the state may fear losing their individual specializations once the master plan goes into effect. This could mean that schools like Middle Tennessee State University—which is reputed to be a “communications focused school”—or Tech—also known as a “technologically focused school”—could lose their reputations. “We still need to maintain our distinctiveness as a university that specializes in many technical fields,” Bell said. “But we should have a more cohesive freshman and sophomore transfer system.” Despite being generally well-received across campus, Bell says that some controversy has arisen. Several professors feel they may lose their personalized curricula because of the standardization of core classes, preventing them from teaching the topics they are more interested or knowledgeable in. “Right now they [the faculty] are concerned, which is why I will be meeting multiple times with the Faculty Senate,” Bell said. “We will work on improving their acceptance of this new program while ensuring Tech meets these new standards.” Bell will be meeting with the Faculty Senate over the next few months to discuss the possible impact of the act on their personalized curricula. All of these changes are part of

Tech’s compliance with the Complete College Tennessee Act of 2010. The act was passed on Jan. 21 by the Tennessee General Assembly, and is the result of more than a year of bipartisan discussion regarding the future of Tennessee’s colleges and universities. The act was strongly influenced by Complete College America—a nonprofit organization funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and dedicated to improving states’ graduation rates—and was developed with the recommendations of Stan Jones, president of CCA. Its aim is to increase the number of Tennesseans with college degrees. The University of Tennessee and Tennessee Board of Regents systems will both fall under this act. The University of Tennessee system, however, will be allowed to maintain some of its current practices, like its competitive application policy at the Knoxville campus. Since the act is in its initial stages, it could be a while before official rules and regulations are established and enacted. Time will tell how drastically Tech will be affected.

“

percent of students entering community colleges in Tennessee start in remedial courses. - Complete College America

PROPOSAL HIGHLIGHTS • GOAL The Tennessee Higher Education Commission wants to develop a strategic plan that emphasizes each school’s academic strengths and reduces overlapping or competing degree offerings. • FUNDING A new funding formula will be developed that is based on student retention and graduation rates instead of the number of students enrolled. • COLLEGE TRANSFERS Any student who earns an associate’s degree from a community college will meet transfer requirements to any public-four year school as a junior.

www.uchra.com/cats/routes.html

• COMMUNITY COLLEGE SYSTEM Merges the state’s 13 independently managed community colleges into a statewide system of two-year schools. Develops a common course numbering system at community colleges and makes clear which courses do not qualify for transferring credits to another school. • REMEDIAL INSTRUCTION Shifts all remedial instruction from four-year schools to community colleges and changes current law to allow students to be enrolled at a community college and a four-year school at the same time.

-- The Associated Press

”

FROM PAGE 1: The dark line denotes the Purple Route, which encompasses Tech’s campus, Cookeville Regional Medical Center and Tech Village. The route starts at the eastern side of the RUC and makes additional stops at the RUC’s western entrance on North Peachtree, the corner of 4th Street and Whitney Avenue, the commuter parking lot on 12th Street, and the School of Nursing on 7th Street.

Grant awarded to chemistry department By DHIR JOSHI Staff Writer Tech’s chemistry department recently received $50,000 from the National Science Foundation for new instruments in the laboratory and new technology in the classroom. The chemistry department has experienced rapid growth throughout the last 10 years. “The faculties treat students like family and are

planning to manage growth of the department in the future with potentially less resources,” said Jeff Boles, chemistry department chairperson. They are incessantly working on receiving grants from the NSF for both research and teaching. They are expecting more than $3 million from the state. “We will know in three weeks,” Boles said. “Two million will be used for research space and 1.6 million will be used for the remod-

eling of Foster Hall,” Tech helped more students graduate from the department from 1997 to 2007 Boles said. With Tech’s chemistry department producing 235 graduates during that time, the only Tennessee university with more during the same period was Vanderbilt.

Award nominations solicited - Mail nominations to the Outstanding Faculty Awards Committee at Box 5136 no later than Feb. 19. Outstanding Faculty Awards in Teaching and Professional Service. Nominations for our faculty awards in outstanding teaching and professional service are being solicited by the Outstanding Faculty Awards Committee. Any faculty member with three or more years of teaching and service to the University is eligible (although faculty members who have won one of the awards in the past three years are not). Any faculty member, student or alumnus may submit nominations, which should be in letter form describing why nominee merits consideration; only one letter per nominee is needed. Nominations for teaching awards should be based on instructional competence and effectiveness. Nominations for the service award should be based on service to the University in non-teaching and non-research capacities and on service to the community, state, region and nation. Winners of the teaching award over the past five years were Shirley Laird, Thomas Timmerman, Daniel Swartling, Bonita Barger, Donald Visco, David Smith, Joseph Biernacki, Richard Le Borne, Shannon Collins and Susan Gore. Winners of the service award were Barbara Jackson, Eugene Kline, Paula Hinton, Joseph Hermann and Jessica Matson.

Textbooks bought and sold, new & used, online buybacks. Buy, sell, rent at cheapbooks.com (260) 399-6111, espanol (212) 380-1763, urdu/hindi/ punjabi (713) 429-4981, see site for other support lines.

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ENTERTAINMENT www.tntechoracle.com

Page 7 | February 5, 2010

Bryan Symphony The music you might have missed in 2009 Orchestra ready for another semester With several shows already planned, the Bryan Symphony Orchestra is set for another musical semester. By LEASA MCCALL Staff Writer The Bryan Symphony Orchestra will perform on Feb. 21 and March 21 at 3 p.m. Concerts performed by the University music department are free and take place in Wattenbarger Auditorium in the Bryan Fine Arts Building. With dozens of performances taking place this semester, the music department provides more entertainment than any other department at Tech. performances include student and faculty recitals and concerts performed by the BSO, TTU concert band, jazz band, and many guest artists. “Music is a vital part of our University that enables students to escape from the everyday pressures of classes

and responsibility,” said Atthur Labar, chairman of the music and art department. “I believe that Tech students appreciate the musical performances we offer and take advantage of the opportunity.” All this entertainment takes time and effort. Faculty and staff work year round to plan, practice and deliver performances to the campus audiences. The BSO does an average of five performances that are open to the public. These performances are not free. Tickets can be bought in the Bryan Fine Arts Building before performances or in advance. For a complete list of performances, you can go to the Tech website. For more information or to purchase tickets, call Gail Luna (931)372-6088 or send an email to bryansymph@tntech.edu.

Craft Center presents three new exhibits By LAUREN HUXFORD Staff Writer The Appalachian Center for Craft hosts three gallery exhibits, ranging from moodaltering mixed media to upscale culinary and comfort items. Gallery One houses a Meg Roberts collection titled “Mood Alteration” until Thursday. If focuses on personal, interactive and environments. Gallery Two is showing a Brian Ferrell household items collection until Thursday Feb. 18.

1. Grizzly Bear - Vekatimest – Brooklyn quartet Grizzly Bear put their heads together in the follow-up to their 2006 masterpiece Yellow House, which received rave reviews from critics and fans alike. Vekatimest, more pop and more melodic than Yellow House, portrayed an even more mature, well-rounded, and imaginative Grizzly Bear. Vocalists Ed Droste and Daniel Rossen alternate vocals on the album’s songs, each with his own haunting and morose delivery. Lilting harmonies are scattered throughout every track, each band member contributing to the almost cosmic sound. Heavily distorted, garbled guitars accompany punching keyboards to make this sonic masterpiece a hard one to forget. “Two Weeks,” the album’s most successful single is sure to have the listener pogo-ing toward the ceiling, while the eerie “While You Wait for the Others” almost sends you right back into your seat and into a daydream. Vekatimest tells us that Grizzly Bear is capable of orchestrating complex, obscure songs along with poppy ones; a goal many bands cannot achieve. 2. Dave Rawlings Machine - A Friend of a Friend – Alt/ folk duo Dave Rawlings

and Gillian Welch have done it again. A Friend of a Friend is like a trip back in time; back when music’s subject matter was simple and complex at the same time. Dave and Gillian have a talent that not many musicians have today: the ability to combine new and old lyricism with traditional music. This album’s songs could’ve been released in the ‘40s and no one would’ve been the wiser, but the songs can still be related to our own time. Dave’s voice, southern gentleman fused with backwoods moonshiner, and Gillian’s warm, honey-soaked vocals couldn’t better complement each other. It’s no wonder that a host of recording artists have sought the help of these two folkies. Dave, co-writer and producer of Ryan Adams’ 2000 release Heartbreaker, covers “To be young,” one of the tracks that epitomized the album’s success. Rawlings also accompanied Welch on all of her critically acclaimed studio albums. It’s about time Dave had his chance to belt one out. 3. Magnolia Electric Company - Josephine - Writer, producer, vocalist, and multiinstrumentalist Jason Molina blew alternative country listeners away with 2009s Josephine. Molina, whose career spans more than two decades made the switch from his pre-

1. Grizzly Bear - Vekatimest 2. Dave Rawlings Machine - A Friend of a Friend 3. Magnolia Electric Company - Josephine 4. Girls - Album 5. Phoenix - Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix 6. M. Ward - Hold Time 7. St. Vincent - Actor 8. Dirty Projectors - Bitte Orca 9. The Flaming Lips - Embryonic 10. Animal Collective - Merriweather Post Pavilion

vious alias, Songs: Ohia, to Magnolia Electric Company in 2003. If you’re a listener who enjoys poignant, poetic lyrics and flawless delivery you’ll love Josephine. An ode to the South, Josephine, covers such subject matter as whip-poor-wills, country hotels, card games, Knoxville, love lost, and a plethora of other cryptic subjects. Sometimes simple, sometimes unidentifiable, the album’s lyrics paint a picture and tell a story that could be transposed into an oldtime Western, and the music would serve as a perfect background score. It’s nice to see musicians like Molina looking inwardly and coming back with poetry that can almost stop you dead in your tracks, and music that’ll send you flying like you’ve been hit by a freight train. 4. Girls - Album - Musician Christopher Owens of Girls exploded onto the scene last year almost out of no-

where. Owens, raised in the cult “Children of God,” was only allowed to listen to doowop and rockabilly tapes from the ‘50’s until his teen years. It was then that he was exposed to bands like Guns n’ Roses and Queen and these encounters sent him on a journey to find his own unique sound. He became an avid member of the Southern California punk rock scene, and he absorbed almost every genre of music he could get his hands on. Album, surprisingly, shows that he revisited the influences that he grew up with, but with his own raw, unadulterated energy. Owens fuses rockabilly and surf rock with the punk and grunge that he later would come to adore. Owens’ lyrics are admittedly simple and straightforward. For the rest of Kyle’s list, go to the Oracle’s Web site: TNTechOracle.com

By Matt Knieling / Voyage of the Clementide is a weekly comic fetured in the Oracle.

By KYLE BUCKNER Special to the Oracle

Gallery Three holds a collection that artist Nathan Dube titled “Boys Toys,” which is ment to examine the ideas of childhood and how male adulthood is shaped by contemporary culture. Dube’s collection is shown until March 10. The galleries host between 20 and 25 exhibits each year, ranging from traditional to contemporaty art. They are open to visitors seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information or directions, go to http:// www.tntech.edu/craftcenter/home/ or call (931)3723051.

Mass Effect 2: Bioware delivers space epic sequel and triumphs over original By CHUCK ACHESON Entertainment Editor Very rarely does a game come along that challenges our preconceived notions of morality and forces the player to look inward at who they are and who they think they are. “Mass Effect 2” takes on this challenge and soars with success. Recently, a plethora of games attempted this same feat, letting the player decide to be a “good” or “evil” person, with varying degrees of success. The greatest flaw in the majority of these titles was that the decisions a player made had clear implications, that is to say, the difference between good and evil was clearly delineated. “Mass Effect 2” bucked this trend by successfully implementing a gray area of morality. Is worth it to remain good even if costs an ally his life? Not all the decisions in the game are this earth shattering, but they all come back in the end. For the first time playing a game of this nature, the player really does get the sense that every decision will have a consequence later in the game. This goes beyond whether or not the characters in the party will like the player. By not knowing the strengths and weaknesses of some characters, the player may consign them to their untimely death. Another weakness from the first game that has been addressed was the communication wheel. The player has much more control over what Commander Shepard actually says and implies in the narrative. Adding to the player’s control of the narrative, Bioware added the interrupt system. During certain cut scenes, the player has the opportunity to interrupt conversations for either good or evil. This intuitive addition to the game adds new depth to the already astounding story.

Throughout the game the player is treated to a compelling narrative. From the opening sequence when Shepard is floating lifeless through space, until the final battle, the player is on a wild rollercoaster of intrigue and danger. The storytelling in “Mass Effect 2” is far beyond any of its competitors or predecessors. Rich and well-developed characters help pull the player into the story and form bonds with the player. Not to mention, the player can radically alter the story in various ways. Depending on his actions in the first game, major elements of the game can change. This feature beckons the player for more than one, two or even three plays of the game. Despite all the other improvements over the first “Mass Effect,” the single greatest improvement was in the combat system. In the first installment, an element of luck was involved with shooting at enemies. Even if the enemy was within the player’s scope, there was a chance the round may fly off target. No more. A shot aimed at an enemy will hit the enemy. If the round kills the enemy depends on the player’s talent point decisions and weapon upgrades. The new weapon and armor upgrade system is a bit odd at first, especially for veterans of the first game, but still makes sense and works well. The only problematic portion of the game involves the mining system. Now, when the player finds an unexplored planet, they can scan it for raw materials. However, to do this, the player must engage in a convoluted system. But, thankfully, this is not a major portion of the game. Regardless, Bioware once again delivers a triumph. “Mass Effect 2” raises the standard for multi-genre games. If you enjoy fun, pick-up this game, you won’t regret it. Hopefully, the final installment of the trilogy comes out soon, I for one, can’t wait.

ENTERTAINMENT

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Page 8 | February 5, 2010

Movie Talk By CHUCK ACHESON Entertainment Editor

Edge of Darkness In Edge of Darkness, Mel Gibson takes on the role of a Boston cop. When what appeared to be a failed murder attempt on him leaves his daughter dead, Gibson is pushed to the edge to find out what really happened. Although the movie raises valid questions about politicians and their ties to campaign donors, the movie undercuts itself with overacting, a poor plot and questionable visual sequences. Throughout the film, Gibson forces a Boston accent that comes and goes at times. And, rather than looking like a human feeling hatred, rage and sorrow, he looks like a mannequin with emotions tacked on his face. He never gave the audience a chance to believe he really just lost his daughter. The plot is riddled with holes and leaves numerous loose ends, but not in the sense, ‘here comes a sequel.’ The final action of the movie will leave the viewer asking, ‘wait... what?’ without an explanation as the movie attempts to stick with the theme of political intrigue. While the action unfolds, the viewer is treated to awkward camera shots and canned dramatic sequences. The sequence in which Gibson releases his daughter’s ashes on a wind-swept beach is as original as the Boston cop drama genre at this point. With these short-comings, however, the film did manage to keep me in my seat with a few witty twists and shocks. At least once, the action made me jump out of my seat. But, the movie can’t overcome its faults and remains a forgettable, below-average film. Check it out if you aren’t tired of movies trying to be The Departed. Everyone else can pass on this one.

Above: Highlighted by roaring waterfall and a creek flowing through the course, the miniature golf course at Fast Lane offers fun and challenge for beginners and old hats alike. Right: Fast Lane’s current paintball field, “The Pit,” gives players the chance to storm the trenches and features a large, fallen tree that players can use for cover.

Fast Lane Fun Park opens its doors

From miniature golf to paintball, Cookeville’s newest entertainment venue offers something for the whole family. By CHUCK ACHESON Entertainment Editor Fast Lane Fun Park might be on the outskirts of town, but it is one place worth the drive. The park currently has several attractions available for everyone to enjoy. And, with a large property, the park has big plans for the future. The most striking feature of the park is the waterfall that is a staple of the miniature golf course. The course itself offers a good challenge for experienced players while offering fun for players of any level. The course is well constructed, expertly maintained and of the highest quality, a rarity in a town not dominated by the tourism industry. The course has lights for round of miniature golf at night, once the weather improves and the park stays open later. After walking past the miniature golf course, a large rock climbing wall comes into view. The wall is part of the Fun Zone, a collection of attractions. In addition to the wall, guests can enjoy the Monkey Jump, playground, swings, and car train ride. If guests are looking for some-

thing more competitive, Fast Lane offers an impressive paintball field, known as “The Pit.” Hallmarked by a large fallen tree in the center of the field, players can move up and down the field behind a wide variety of bunkers and other obstacles. In addition to single guests, the park caters to parties, groups and team building activities. With the Party Pavilion ready to serve just about any size group, and a full concession bar, Fast Lane wants to host your next party. Guests can ride to their party in style in the park’s stretch Hummer limousine. With these open attractions, the park is already worth checking out, but ambitious expansion plans will set Fast Lane apart from other entertainment venues in town. Plans are in the works for a Go-Kart track to be completed in mid-April and it will be open to all ages. In addition to the current paintball field, a second field will be built. Unlike “The Pit,” the new field will be tournament-style with inflatable bunkers. Two other attractions in the works are an air-soft field and Wa-

ter Wars. Water Wars is a water balloon competition where guests can soak each other when the weather improves. Until then, the winter hours for the park are from noon until dusk on Friday through Sunday. Once the weather turns a bit warmer, the park will have expanded hours. If local temperatures drop below 45 degrees Fahrenheit, the park will close. Guests can call 931526-FAST (3278) for updates on the park’s status. Parties can request special reservations with all guidelines found on the park’s Web site: http:// www.fastlanefunpark.com. Prices for attractions can be found on the Web site and Tech students get a 10 percent discount with an I.D. Fast Lane Fun Park is off to a great start with ambitious plans for growth. In a town desperate for this type of entertainment venue, the sky is the limit for Fast Lane. Fast Lane Fun Park is located at 1969 East Spring Street, just off exit 290 on Interstate 40. In addition, a Facebook page is available for interested parties with which to stay up-to-date on park happenings.

Go inside the booth: Kyle “Radar” Prince Kyle Prince has been a WTTU DJ since fall 2005 and began his show, “Radar’s Hit List,” in December of that same year. In addition to hosting his show, Prince is the current program director for the station. The Oracle sat down with Prince to ask him a few questions about his show and his role in the operation of WTTU 88.5 FM. Q: Can you tell us about your show, “Radar’s Hit List?” KP: “Radar’s Hit List” is basically a really eclectic mix tape, the tone of which changes weekly, depending on my mood. I stick mostly to music that could conceivably Above: Prince talks with his listeners throughfall within the “rock” genre, such as punk, metal out the WTTU 88.5 FM listening area. Below: and oldies, but I’m not afraid to venture beyond Prince shows off a vinyl copy of a Ramones that. album, which gets much air time during his show, I also do occasional “tribute” shows to bands “Radar’s Hit List.” I admire, such as the Ramones, Devo and Pink Floyd. Listening to my show, you’ll probably hear a few familiar artists, but I try tostick to their lesser-known material. Q: Where did you get the DJ name, “Radar?” KP: I have always been a fan of the show “M*A*S*H.” I have always empathized with the character Corporal Radar O’Reilly. Radar was not necessarily always the highest ranking or most important person on the show, but he was always involved in what was happening. Also, the word radar, when referring to radar waves, means something omnipotent and far reaching, yet invisible. I chose the name because I was comfortable with those connotations. Q: When did you become program director for WTTU? KP: I was elected program director in December 2007 after a year and a half as station staff liaison. Q: What additional jobs or work is entailed with being the program director? KP: The program director is in charge of a number of things, the most important of which is creating and maintaining the WTTU schedule. In addition, I oversee the biannual DJ training class. There are a large number of smaller duties, but those two are among the most important and consume the largest amount of time.

Radar’s Hit List airs on WTTU 88.5 FM on Wednesdays at 10 p.m.

Final Grade: CThe rock climbing wall is one of the features in the Fun Zone. For $10, guests can spend time on the wall or on other attractions in the Fun Zone.

next week: From Paris with Love

WTTU 88.5 FM Spring Show Schedule Monday Tuesday Wednesday

KISS and Tell (5 - 7 PM)

The T.J. Withers Show (5 - 6 PM)

Harvest Hoedown (4:30 - 6 PM)

Something Weird (7 - 8 PM)

Moonage Daydream (6 - 7 PM)

Refractions

Teacher on the Radio (9 - 11 PM) Titus Electronicus! (11 PM - 1 AM)

Thursday Uncle John’s Band (7 - 8 PM) Marat’s Bathhouse (9 - 10 PM)

Radio Francophone, Cookeville (8 - 10 PM)

Pure Volume (8 - 9 PM) Horseback Harmonies (9 - 10 PM)

Radar’s Hit List (10 PM - 12 AM)

The Glass Cage (10 - 11 PM)

Friday

Boogie on the Bayou (6 - 8 PM)

WTTU 88.5 FM Your only alter native

NEWS www.tntechoracle.com

Page 9 | February 5, 2010

Impending Tech Village renovation speculated to displace students Exhibit A: ResLife anticipates the renovations will bring muchneeded changes and a better living experience.

Exhibit B: International sudents fear that speculated price increases will leave them homeless.

By DAKOTA WEATHERFORD Staff Writer

By SAMANTHA KENDALL Staff Writer

Tech’s $8 million budget for renovations of Tech Village begins this summer and is expected to last into summer 2013. According to Charles Macke, director of residential life, the state law is requiring new sprinkler systems throughout all residential housing by 2012. Starting on Tech Village West, buildings A through M, workers will gut the inside of all the buildings, forming more energy efficient housing. The 560- square- foot apartments will consist of new plumbing, electric wiring, and fixtures. Macke plans on surveying current residents for their input on what they would like for the new rooms. Bigger closets and changing the 1 ½ bedrooms into 2 bedroom are some of the existing ideas. “We are trying to have the best possible housing at the best possible price we can,” Macke said. However, residents of Tech Village are bound by a 12 month property lease. These residents will have to relocate during the renovation. Macke said that a survey would be sent out soon to the tenants on where they would like to stay dur-

ing that time. One option Macke mentioned was for the tenants to live in the apartments previously used to house over flow freshmen. Ashley Smith, 20, said she was recently told that she would have to move out. Smith believes that the housing is in need of renovation, but wishes someone would have let her know about the renovation before she signed her lease back in August. Smith is attending school on soccer scholarship, which currently covers the price of housing in Tech Village. Smith said that she is waiting on someone to tell her where to move. “It’s not the fact we have to move out,” Smith, one of the many athletes living in her building said. “It’s about our scholarship.” Tech Village, built in the 1960’s, is the only apartment housing on campus. Residents are students who are married, single parents, 26 years of age, graduate students, have disabilities or are of a junior standing. Some faculty and staff also live in Tech Village.

Tech Village residents on the east side will be forced to find a new place to live starting June 1 due to renovations. Many of the students living in Tech Village are international students, here on a stipend from their country. The renovation will occur in three phases: east, middle and west. Each will take a year to complete. The renovation was brought about by the Tennessee Safety Department determining the apartments were not safe. This renovation is also allowing Tech to make Tech Village more energy efficient, which will raise the price of Tech Village. “The rumor that I heard is that they are going to double the price of Tech Village,” said Charlie Wilkerson, International Students Affairs director, “which I think is just crazy. You know, who can afford to pay $600 for [Tech Village].” “I don’t know all the details yet. A lot of it is just hear-say,” said Wilkerson. Lazarus Uzoechi, president of the African Student Union and doctoral student of electrical engineer-

ing said, “If it’s doubled, I don’t think I could afford it. I don’t think any of the international students could afford it.” “If things are looked at just increasing rentage without looking at what the international students have, it’s likely to compel some of the international students to leave these environments. So, I think, rightfully, that is supposed to be a concern of their office. So it’s a general problem. Whether international student or citizens, everybody is concerned about what will be the outcome,” Uzeochi said. In December Uzoechi received a memo clarifying a lot of the confusion; it let students know they have the choice to stay in Tech Village or move elsewhere. We have four categories of international students at Tech: exchange students and research scholars, graduate students, permanent residents and refugees, and international students that came to the U.S. on a student visa. Tech students who are on student visas are not allowed to work, so they cannot make extra money to cover the rising cost of Tech Village. Out of the 575 international students at Tech four-fifths stay year-round. There have been meetings to keep Tech Village residents in-

formed. Some of the residents have been showing apprehension and concern about the renovation and being displaced. “Initially, there was a misunderstanding of what it was all about,” Uzoechi said. “I believe the effort made by, especially by Richard Barns, the assistant director of Residential Life made the effort to be sure that everybody was informed about what was going on. Wilkerson stated, “It’ll be a speed bump in the road, and then they’ll [the students] just go right on.”

Sound Off What are your thoughts on the Tech Village situation? Write a Letter to the Editor and e-mail it to oracle@tntech.edu www.tntechoracle.com

H a i t i d e v a s t a t i o n f a c t s Service Learning Center organizes relief By JORDAN FARRELL Staff Writer

- There are large concentrations of people in a small area.

- Toussaint Louverture International, Haiti’s only airpot, is under U.S. Air Force control.

- Lack of water supply can bring diarrheal diseases that could plague the country.

- Getting collected material to Haitians is nearly impossible.

Dirty Laundry??

project for Haiti earthquake victims By CHRISTINA GILLIM Staff Writer and TALLULAH GILLIAM Copy Editor The Service Learning Center’s big project this semester is going to be Haiti relief. In partnership with The Gathering from the River Community Church, the Service Center will be collecting items to send to the victims of the Jan. 12 earthquake. There are drop centers set up around campus for items such as water, wipes, canned food, wash cloths, pasta, peanut butter, batteries, flashlights, hygiene products, medical supplies, sheets, thin blankets, diapers, and formula. “The opportunity to serve —to help and volunteer lo-

cally or globally — is a privilege,” News Bureau director, Karen Lykins said. “As a part of the Tech family, we are fortunate to have ways to marshal resources and volunteers in a big way.” Jeremy Cook, representing The Gathering, coordinated Push Week, setting up collection boxes on South Patio. They will work with Safe Water Nexus to get the supplies to Haiti. The centers will be set up all semester, the main one in Service Learning Coordinator Michelle Huddleston’s office in RUC 108 across from the Cafeteria. This and other campus relief projects descriptions are available on the Tech web site. It is accessible by clicking the Haiti relief slide on the Tech homepage. This was organized by Lykins.

“I thought it was important to gather information in one place on how and when people could donate money or supplies,” Lykins said. “We used the student and faculty/staff versions of Tech Times to ask for information about any and all efforts on campus focused on Haiti relief.” The Service Center works with around 50 agencies and organizations in the Upper Cumberland. There are many opportunities for nursing majors working with the Service Learning Center at the hospital. For more information, call Huddleston at (931) 3726120. To add your campus organization’s efforts to the list, email Lykins at klykins@ tntech.edu.

TTU