The Oracle- October 4, 2013

WHAT’S NEXT FOR THE EAGLES? | PAGE 5

FEDERAL SHUTDOWN REACTIONS | PAGE 4

RON HOWARD RUSHES TO THRILL | PAGE 6

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THE

Tennessee Tech University | Cookeville, TN | 38505 | Est. 1924

O

RACLE

Volume 97 | Issue 4 | Free in single copy | October 4, 2013

U.S. Army announces plan to close TTU ROTC

PRESS RELEASE

Tech’s Army ROTC program is one of 13 across the nation and three in Tennessee identified by the U.S. Department of Defense for closure.

TTU received notification this week of the Army’s intentions. The move to close programs appears to be linked to budget decisions and the Army’s desire to have more diverse ROTC participants.

TTU President Phil Oldham and many concerned university supporters say it is a bewildering decision they will fight to reverse.

“We don’t understand why the Army would try to balance the budget on the backs of TTU students,” Oldham stated.

“And we have to question why a disproportionate number of programs in Tennessee are being targeted,” Oldham emphasized.

“If there is a concern about establishing diversity, I assert that our first-generation college students from rural areas who participate in our state’s ROTC programs represent a special population.

“ROTC programs are lifelines to American kids from rural areas who are making extraordinary efforts to serve their country and earn an education,” Oldham added.

East Tennessee State University and the University of Tennessee Martin also received notification. The closure list is not linked to the current federal govern-

ment shutdown, but has its roots in decisions related to the federal budget reductions known as “sequestration” and military personnel reduction.

Leaders and supporters of all three Tennessee universities question the method and metrics used to choose programs for closure.

Programs have been aware of a goal of 15 commissions a year, but no notice was given that failure to meet this mark would result in such dire consequences. Oldham points out there was no notification from the Army about TTU’s status and no description of a process to respond and report improvement.

“We find fault with the analysis because during the last year we commissioned 16 officers, which may not have been taken into account by the Army. In our case, we believe this program is capable of meeting ROTC program requirements and are troubled by the lack of due process in the Army’s decision,” said Oldham.

“We have a rich history of service and of providing exemplary officers, and we plan to explore every opportunity to continue to operate our battalion.”

TTU plans to enlist support from Congressional leaders, alumni and others to work toward a reversal of the decision.

If the closures occur, a two-year phase out would allow seniors and juniors to

complete their degrees and receive commissions. Current freshmen and sophomores would be allowed to transfer to other programs. Partnering with a host institution that offers ROTC also is another opversities on the list. tion for universities tly y 69 cadets are Currently rough g the ROTC enrolled through n the past 5 years, y program. In TTU has commissioned 55 cording to Lt. Col. officers, according Dominic Ciaramitaro, TTU U.S. Army Cadet Command sor of military sciand professor y y ence. Last year, a 10-year high of 16 officers were ned. commissioned. he unit’s inception Since the in 1950, it has commissioned rs, seven of whom 1,662 officers, he rank of flag g ofachieved the OTC program p g ficer. The ROTC also al part of the camis an integral unity, supporting pus community, grams at six area g JROTC programs s. high schools. g Some of the program’s ble graduates g most notable include Gen. Carl W. Stiner, Lt. Gen. Don Rodgers, Lt. Gen. Bruce R. Harris, Maj.j Gen. avid, Maj.j Gen. Richard David, inson, Rear Adm. Bob L. Robinson, g Gen. Vinson E. Smith, Brig.

Edward F. Dorman III, en. Robert A. and Maj. Gen. Harris.

TTU was named a military friendly y G.I. university by zine in Jobs magazine its 2012 Guide tary to Military Friendly s.

Institutions.

Only 20

percent of more than 8,000 colleges and universities surveyed were included in the publication. The university was also named among the top y friendly y universities military y Military y Advanced by Education in its 2013 Guide to y Top MilitaryF r i e n d l y Colleges & Universities.

The uniy hass versity been como mitted to the miliy since tary TTU’s founding in 1915.

The commitment remains g with scholstrong arships, tuition discounts, and coung and career seling g advice designed for y and active military veterans and family members.

“The quality and legacy of our program demands that we work to preserve it,” Oldham said.

SGA passes legislation to bring tables to Main Quad

By CAITLIN JARED & MELISSA EDWARDS Beat Reporters

Photo courtesy of Photo Services

SGA passed the “Main Quad Tables Act of 2013” in response to students’ desire to increase a sense of community on campus. The bill aims to provide tables on the Main Quad for students to eat, study and meet between classes.

Freshman Senator Kellie Collins proposed the bill.

“I think people are always looking for new places to study, so I thought adding tables to the Main Quad grassy areas is a great idea because it’s a central location,” said Collins.

Some senators expressed their concerns about the location of the tables and their possible disruption to the visual flow of campus.

Senator Drake Fenlon said, “Adding tables on the Quad wouldn’t be such a great idea because I think campus is trying to create a flowing quad.”

Fenlon proposed an amendment to the bill that would advocate table placement on the sides of the Quad instead of the center, keeping the view between Derryberry Hall and the Nursing Building clear.

After further discussion, the bill passed with a vote of 38-3.

Master plan to construct largest building in University history

By SARAH TOWNSEND Beat Reporter Building plans for an $82 million science building on Tech’s campus have been set into motion. The structure will be more than 150,000 square feet, making it the largest structure on campus once completed. The total budget for this project is approximately $82 million dollars.

Claire Stinson, Ph.D., is the vice president of planning and finance. Stinson said Tech put $4 million dollars towards the planning phase of the endeavor last July. This funding covered program planning for the chemistry (and several biology) classes the building will be designed to support as well as labs, equipment and student spaces.

Currently, the planning phase is being wrapped up and the design stage is forthcoming.

The project is partially funded through the planning stage. However, Tennessee Board of Regents and Tennessee Higher Education Commission is expected to approve the

University Advancement A recent version of the master plan shows the projected location for the Science and Engineering complex near Capitol Quad.

full amount by 2015, at which time construction will begin.

Of the $82 million dollar budget, Tech is responsible for providing $18.7 million. The state will provide the remaining $63.2 million.

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According to Tech’s strategic plan for 20112015, the new science building will be located near the residency halls Ellington and Warf where a parking lot is currently located. It is estimated to be finished sometime in

2017. Tech’s future plans for its campus also include proposals for a large area of outdoor student space, a new fitness center and a fountain among the mandatory maintenance to existing buildings.

Stinson said, “I’m not

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on campus 24-7 but some [students] are. They live here. Students need a place to go.”

Despite the benefits of the proposed additions to the campus, landscape and facilities, one major drawback will be evident to commuting faculty and students alike — parking.

If all the proposed changes are approved by TBR and THEC, most of the parking within the campus’ interior will be replaced with infrastructure.

Initially, a parking garage was considered to make up for lost spaces.

However, a garage would not be eligible for funding from the state as it is considered auxiliary rather than a necessity.

Building a parking garage would cost the University $15,000 per parking spot.

The proposed solution is to create new parking lots on the outer edges of campus. One lot will be located past Tech Village and the other will take the place of Foundation Hall.

If approved, there will be a shuttle service offered

to transport students and faculty throughout campus, stopping every eight minutes.

“I think it’s good that Tech is taking the initiative to improve its suitcase-campus quality, but it blows my mind to think that a solution to current parking issues were not at the top of the list. Parking is a problem now,” said Kati Woods, Residential Life administrative assistant and former Tech student.

Lewis Hall, Foundry Hall, Foster Hall and the Old Maintenance Building will also be demolished to make room for green space if the strategic plan is accepted. Their current functions will be carried out in one of the new facilities proposed.

Although some of the changes are currently pending approval, Stinson is optimistic about Tech’s proposed campus additions.

“It is exciting to have the potential to change the entire face of campus,” Stinson said.

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NEWS Page 2 | October 4, 2013

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CRIME BRIEFS: - Sept. 30 - 9:00 Classification: Suspicious person and harassment Location: Dixie Avenue Disposition: Closed. Subject was arrested.

Notes: Subject was evading arrest.

- Sept. 28 - 12:30 Classification: Destruction, damage and vandalism Location: New Hall South parking lot Disposition: Open case.

Notes: Vehicle was vandalized.

- Sept. 27 - 3:05 Classification: Drug/narcotic violation Location: East dorm entrance Disposition: Closed. Referred to the Dean of Students.

Notes: None.

- Sept. 27 - Not available Classification: Open theft.

Location: Grass area of Stadium Drive Disposition: Open case.

Notes: Theft of motorcycle.

- Sept. 26 - 3:00 Classification: Theft from building Location: East stadium locker room Disposition: Open case.

Notes: Theft from unlocked locker.

- Sept. 26 - 3:00 Classification: Theft from building Location: East stadium locker room Disposition: Open case.

Notes: None.

- Sept. 24 - 2:30 Classification: Theft from building Location: East stadium locker room Disposition: Open case.

Notes: Locker was left unlocked. A wallet was stolen.

Up to date campus crime information at: tntechoracle.com

TAB Tuesday disappoints

By DRAKE FENLON Managing Editor Hundreds of students attended TAB Tuesday this week in an attempt to snag a blanket. Some went home empty handed.

“That blanket giveaway was crazy,” said senior TAB member Ben Toline.

“We passed out nearly 430 blankets.”

With the crowd nearing close to 550 people, not all students are expected to get that week’s desired item.

Some students were disappointed that they didn’t receive a blanket.

“I was sad because I wanted one,” said junior Sara Luckett, “They were really cool.”

TAB’s weekly dead hour event uses student fees to purchase various items students can use. Students line up as early as an hour before the giveaway begins at 11 a.m.

Items given away this semester have ranged from wooden pencil shaped flash drives and color changing mugs to Tuesday’s highly coveted purple TTU monogrammed throw blankets.

TAB is stationed and run under the office of Student Activities where graduate assistant Kevin Anderson

works.

Anderson says that if the giveaway items were passed out bi-monthly basis rather than on a weekly basis, the quality and quantity of the items could potentially increase.

“I would love to be able to get something to every single person,” said Anderson.

“We don’t have enough money in the budget obviously to get something for every single student.

“If our budget were a little more significant we probably wouldn’t do something every week,” Anderson said.

Anderson said TAB listens to what the students have to say.

“We pay attention to Facebook, we pay attention to Twitter, and we kind of gage interest based off of those things, and we try to order enough,” says Anderson.

“We know people will want blankets, we know people will want ultimate Frisbees. I could go down the list and I could show you the things people are going to want and the things people aren’t going to want,” Anderson said. “We can track that stuff better using the social medias; we can adapt to the will of the students a little bit better. If people aren’t

happy about the giveaways, we need to know about it, not because we care about the giveaways per say, but because we care about student activities on campus. “ Some students have negative opinions on how the student group is run. “[TAB] is not well organized,” says junior Megan Weddle. “We pay for the things and then can’t get them.”

TAB is for the students and isn’t just about the free things.

“What people really know about Tech Activities Board is giveaways and it’s a lot more than that,” said Anderson. “We’re trying to use the giveaways to generate buzz so the other events that we host are more well attended.

“The better the giveaways are, the more energized the students will be about TAB and the more likely they are to actually participate and attend some of the other events for their benefit,” Anderson said.

TAB is responsible for bringing entertainment such as the hypnotist and Horatio Sanz to campus during Week of Welcome, as well as orchestrating Homecoming and crucial parts of the Spring Awakening festival.

LIGHTS, CAMERA, POETRY

events @ tech October

05 3 p.m.

Football vs. Murray State University

06

3 p.m. - 5 p.m.

The Bryan Symphony Orchestra

Wattenbarger Auditorium, Bryan fine Arts Center

07

11 a.m.

Base Camp: Veterans Support Group TTU Counseling Center RUC 307 7:30 p.m. - 9 p.m.

TTU Wind Ensemble Wattenbarger Auditorium, Bryan Fine Arts Building

08

11 a.m. - 12 p.m.

“Yikes I made it to the interview” workshop RUC Tech Pride room 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.

SGA Town Hall Meeting Derryberry Auditorium 7:30 p.m. - 9 p.m.

TTU Jazz Ensembles Wattenbarger Auditorium, Bryan Fine Arts Building 8 p.m.

The Fray SOLO Concert Hooper Eblen Center

09 7:30 p.m.- 9 p.m.

Vince DiMartino, trumpet, guest artist recital Wattenbarger Auditorium, Bryan Fine Arts Building

Local bands, artists come to Cedar Avenue

By ARTHUR JACKSON Beat Reporter

Cookeville will show its creative side this weekend at the Picasso Doesn’t Live Here Anymore Art Festival.

The event will feature 25-30 local artists on North Cedar Ave. Oct. 5 between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.

The artists will be exhibiting and selling their clay, glass, jewelry and other handmade arts and crafts.

Demonstrations will also be given to help visitors learn the trades themselves.

“Even if you’re not looking to buy art, there is also going to be live music,” said organizing committee member Jen Luna. “There are six different bands that are going to be playing bluegrass, jazz and other such genres. All the

local restaurants on North Cedar will also be open. So it’s really going to be like a street party and it’s free so you don’t have to spend money to go. It’s something to do on a Saturday in Cookeville.”

Local bands such as The Leave and The Mockingbirds will be playing at the event.

All proceeds from the event will help fund the Kiwanis Cookeville Children’s Museum, a science museum for kids to go to after school. Proceeds also sponsor the Clean Commission, an organization helping to make Cookeville go green. The event will be free to attend, but a booth will be set up where for visitors to purchase and paint T-shirts for $10.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5 It’s a party . . . you’re invited!

Local Artists & Local Bands Drumming - bring your drum The Plateau Ensemble Carissia & Company The Leave The Mocking Birds 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Cedar Ave. between 1st & Broad

10

6 p.m. - 8 p.m.

TTU’s Oktoberfest Tech Pride room- RUC 7 p.m.

Football vs. University of Tennessee at Martin Tucker Stadium

16 All Day

Attend Monday classes

Drake Fenlon Jim Bock reads a William Blake in front of a camera in the Library media center. The recording will be uploaded to YouTube for the Blake Voice project, in association with schools from England.

Daycare plans to expand

By PAIGE STANAGE Beat Reporter

The Child Development Lab and daycare will be moving out of Matthews-Daniel Hall to its new location in Southwest Hall, formally the Regional Health Building.

In past years, MatthewsDaniel Hall has had issues with the amount of space available for children.

Angela Smith, the Child Development Lab director, said there are currently close to 100 children on the waiting list to be enrolled in the daycare.

“It would be very difficult to reduce that number without the needed space,” Smith said.

The children will not be the only ones to benefit from the move. Child life practicum students will also have a more desirable space to study early childhood applications.

“Even though we are super excited about all the new materials, spaces and our own area, we still feel that quality is measured in how we interact with the children and families,” said Smith.

The faculty and staff are planning to move the lab

over to the newly renovated Southwest Hall during winter break.

“We are planning on being moved in and ready to go by Jan. 2014,” said Martha Howard, assistant professor of the Child Development Lab. The remodeling plan for the new lab was modified 16 times. Classrooms will have a larger area for more handson activity and Sherlock Park will be next door for the children to play. The new center will also include an outdoor playground.

11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Fall 2013 Senior Salute Tech Prode Room, 1st Floor of RUC

17

7:30 p.m. - 9 p.m.

The University Orchestra in Concert Wattenbarger Auditorium, Bryan Fine Arts Building

19

2 p.m.

Football vs. Eastern Kentucky University 6 p.m. - 7 p.m.

Ashanti Demas, Wimberly Hall, Adam Mullican, tuba, euphonium, student recital Wattenbarger Auditorium, Bryan Fine Arts Building 7 p.m. - 8 p.m.

Josh Maberry, tuba, student recital Wattenbarger Auditorium, Bryan Fine Arts Building 8 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Jalen Tally, tuba, student recital Wattenbarger Auditorium, Bryan Fine Arts Building

21

7:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Jeremy Hansen, horn, faculty recital Wattenbarger Auditorium, Bryan Fine Arts Building

22

7:30 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Garciella Kowalczyk, piano, guest recital Wattenbarger Auditorium, Bryan Fine Arts Building

NEWS tntechoracle.com

Page 3 | October 4, 2013

Costumed race haunts campus for fifth year

By APRIL GILBERT & BISKIE HOLMAN Beat Reporter

Cookeville’s Haunted Half Marathon has been scheduled for Oct. 19 at 8 a.m.

The Haunted Half begins on North Dixie in front of Tech’s RUC and winds down Maple Avenue and into Algood before crossing the finish line at Memorial Gym. “The Haunted Half continues to be the only half marathon in the area,” said Tracy Epps, Race Co-Director. “It started five years ago with Summer Brown and Mike Huddleston.

Huddleston was a local optometrist who was very involved with the community and Tech athletics, which is how Tech got involved in the first place.”

Huddleston passed away last year from pancre-

atic cancer, but remains a vital part of the race.

“The race is really in his honor. He was such a big part of the Haunted Half, and I wanted to make sure his legacy was never forgotten,” said Epps.

Tech contributes more than half of the 150-200 necessary volunteers to staff the Haunted Half. ROTC members mark the course and Greek Life members act as race representatives.

Tech is also responsible for lending the help of the EMS program. EMT students will be on site offering first aid to those in need.

“Our goal is to create the feeling of a safe, secure fun event that challenges, but doesn’t consume your life with training. We want every person to have a great experience regardless of running ability,” said Epps.

The race course will be

open for three and a half hours in order to allow all runners or walkers time to finish the race.

Participants are encouraged to take part in the marathon’s costume contest beforehand.

Registration is $55 for an individual runner while relay teams of three are $165 for the group. Runners must be 14 years or older to compete.

First female and male finisher will receive a prize of $500. Second and third place finishers will take home $250 and $100, respectively.

The proceeds for the race go to WCTE to help sponsor Live Green and health and exercise programs in the Upper Cumberland.

For more information, visit www.runhauntedhalf. com.

Jim Dillon Awesome Eagle enthusiastically leads a group of runners as the Haunted Half Marathon begins last year.

Marching band to play at Murray State game

Kim Biggs

Tennessee Tech’s Golden Hippogriffs quidditch team stops the Middle Tennessee State University Blue Thestrals’ Thestra offense.

Hippogriffs rein in the Thestrals for a tie in first game of season

Kim Biggs

Cyril Focht, skirt and all, takes flight as the golden snitch for Tech’s Golden Hippogriffs quidditch team.

receive 10% discount

By KIM BIGGS S ng Editor Assistant Managing The TTU Golden Hippogriffs quiduidditch team tied the he Middle Tennessee State University Blue Thestrals 1-1 Sunday.

The Golden Hippogriffs started out strong with a win 250-10 in the first game. MTSU came roaring back in the second game, winning 180-90.

Through the course of both games, TTU outscored the MTSU Blue Thestrals.

However, the golden snitch held

the answer for MTSU. In the “Muggle gg realm” of quidditch, players y dub a specific person to dress in all g gold and run anywhere y outside on campus. In the second d g game, the Golden Hippogriffs ogriffs g held a 60 point advantage, dvantage, g but the game ended ded when the Blue Thestrals trals caught g the snitch. Despite the loss, the Hippogriffs griffs remained positive for the or th rest of the season.

“We did very well for our first game,” said captain Kellie Davis. “Last year we finished second y

year in our region. g This y yea first. we are aiming g for fi Our ultimate goal g iis the Cup.” Quidditch World C still workMTSU is sti establish its quiding g to establis ditch team.

“This iis the first time we have had a chance,” said MTSU parent Russel South. “Last year, Russ we didn’t even have a bench. We only had enough players to put on the field.”

TTU and MTSU are in the same south region as schools like Belmont University and various south Florida teams.

By RICHARD MOSLEY Beat Reporter Tech’s marching band will travel to an away game for the first time in eight years when it accompanies the football team to Murray State Oct. 5.

Eric Harris, director of the Golden Eagles marching band, said President Phil Oldham approached him about allowing the band to travel for the first time in nearly a decade.

“You can have the best foot soldiers on the planet, but if the generals don’t understand and work with you, you can’t win the battle,” said Harris.

“President Oldham is incredibly supportive of band and the music department.” dep Harris said the band also enjoys strong relations with the athletic department.

“It’s fun because music and athletics get along

great. Mark Wilson is incredibly supportive and helps the band feel at home and appreciated,” said Harris.

The hospitality does not stop with Tech’s athletic department. Murray State has offered to feed the band hot dogs and drinks during the third quarter of their visit to Stewart Stadium.

Tech is not the only collegiate band that has stopped traveling. During the years of economic decline, most universities trim budgets pertaining to band travel and expenses.

With over 200 members, travel could cost the University thousands of dollars per trip. Harris said the band is looking forward to such a great opportunity.

“It’s a very exciting time for the department,” said Harris.

Fans can see Tech’s marching band play at Tucker Stadium during every home game this season.

OPINION

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Page 4 | October 4, 2013

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Frustrations because of Obamacare, federal government shutdown LYDIA-CLAIRE BROWN Assistant Opinion Editor

Larry Downing/Reuters

Furloughed federal employee holds up a sign in front of the U.S. Capitol after the U.S. government shut down in the evening on Monday, Sept. 30.

Government shutdown affects more than just public officials When the government shuts down, it’s the people under the government systems that are affected first.

My middle brother happens to be one of these people who are affected.

He is a veteran Marine with a wife and four kids. He provides the only source of income for his family through his job at the Veteran’s Association.

Because of this extreme, poorly timed government shutdown, my brother is working without pay.

CNN claims the Veteran’s Association is completely or partially open, but the people who work there aren’t getting paid.

This screams of a form of taxation without representation. The government might have shut down but the people who help fund it go without pay.

I hate to admit it, but I am really starting to wish Robin Hood did exist, at least in the form of a congressman who actually cares and will fight for all of us against what seems to be a very corrupted government system that was created to protect the people.

Whether we like it or not our government is beginning to fail us.

It began with a socialistic medical system and now they shut themselves down again. My

THE

SARAH DINGWALL Opinion Editor

biggest question is this and the right to believe, - are any of them taking too? a pay cut? Most likely So many questions they are not. and not enough anIf I sound angry it swers. I do have one sois because I am. We all lution. have a right to make our If you know me, you voices heard, but the know what I am about government to say. Pray. doesn’t We were seem to lis- “One nation under f o u n d e d ten to the God,” yet divided we as a Chrispeople like fall. This nation is tian nation you and me. under one falling apart ...

We voted God. No them in and matter what they are all failing mis- anyone else says about erably. our nation, we are a “One nation under God-fearing nation.

God,” yet divided we So now I call all the fall. This nation is falling Christians out there apart and it is starting - alumni, faculty, stuat our nation’s capitol. dents, staff, and friends It started falling apart who read the newspayears ago in the small pers or watch the news. towns and now it is fall- I urge you to pray. Pray ing to larger cities. for this nation. Pray for The government is a solution and that our supposed to help us, but men and women in govinstead they are shut- ernment see reason and ting down jobs and still put an end to this stupossibly taking money pidity. anyway?

I pray for a revival of How is it fair to the the Christians not only people like you and me? on this campus but also We, as college students, in our community at know what it is to have large. We must begin to freedoms but these free- pray and never cease. doms are slowly being I know I tend to retaken away. It started peat myself, but it is with our right to bare worth it if one person arms. What’s next, free- heeds the call, even if dom of speech? What that person is I alone, about the freedom to though I pray there will live without tyranny be more.

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I want to be a member of Congress when I grow up, because it seems right now that the job description is being a whiny, lazy brat.

I hope yoga pants aren’t against the dress code! But seriously, Republicans.

Was “must not play well with others” in the job requirements?

Obamacare passed and, because of that, the health insurance industry can no longer dip into our pockets for numerous, often madeup reasons. We cannot be denied insurance for preexisting conditions, not that our pre-existing conditions have anything to do with our ability to pay out insurance premiums.

That problem rests with the blatant pocket padding of the insurance companies at the expense of the working class. Obamacare is not only a good thing, but it’s already a law – it’s not a bill anymore.

Shocker!

I can’t decide which issue is more offensive to the Republican party (politicians and constituents), or which one I’m more irritated about.

Is it the fact that people will be able to afford decent health care, therefore possibly improving their standard of living, or the fact that being a woman is no longer a preexisting condition?

Neither of those are intense demands. People can better live the American dream by not sacrificing all of their income on the altar of health insurance, and

women can have access to care specific for their gender – something men have had for decades, if not centuries.

If some old dude can have his Viagra covered, then I should be able to have my oral contraceptives covered as well. Both can be purchased for their extensive health benefits outside of sex, and both can be purchased solely in pursuit of a good time.

I don’t mean this editorial to be blatantly proObamacare (even though that is my position) because that’s not the source of our current political woes. It is only this week’s rallying cry. The problem is that our current political climate is one in which compromise is anathema.

I do, however, wholeheartedly blame the Tea Party and radical factions of the Republican party for this.

Fiscally conservative, want to stay home and take care of our own problems, not the whole world’s? I gotcha.

Saving money and staying home is my mantra every Saturday night. But getting rid of the government PERIOD because you don’t want to be told what to do?

Grow up.

Our still-healing economy is going to take another gunshot wound at the hands of the Party that claims to care about the people’s pocketbooks. Is the reasonable insurance of 20% of our population really worth laying off more than 700,000 federal employees?

Gary Cameron/Reuters

A man reads newspapers in Washington, D.C. from around the U.S. Oct. 1.

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Maybe we’ll be a Triple-Dip Recession or, even better, a full-blown Depression.

The last time we had such a last-minute agreement, Standard and Poor’s downgraded us a level. Currently, the credit score of the United States is AA+, less than the United Kingdom or Germany.

For the good of our country and your party, Congressional Republicans need to free themselves from the tyrannical grip of radical fellow Republicans. Kick out the Tea Party and the Libertarians – anyone who disdains to give a helping hand to those in need, or admit that they didn’t have that great of an idea.

Compromise isn’t going to make you happy, but no one’s happy all the time. Not even President Obama and the Democrats.

I just don’t get it, Congressional Republicans.

I really don’t. You claim to care about Americans, and then deliberately pursue policies that are detrimental to our physical and economic well being.

From gun control to contraceptives to gay rights and now Obamacare, it seems all you really want to do is complain and moan. We the People (hey, remember us?!) are sick and tired of a hung Congress who refuses to compromise when a faction doesn’t get its way.

It has been four years of gridlock, with no economic prosperity or enlightened laws to show for it. Either get to work or get out of Washington. Maybe you should go back to grade school for good citizenship classes.

ALLISON MILLS, HAYDEN MCMILLEN, SARAH REESE, SARA SHANKS, WILLIAM

SHECKLER, PAIGE STANAGE, SARAH TATE, SARAH TOWNSEND, AARON VICK, CASEY WOODARD, WILL WEBB, REANNA YOUNG.

DISCLAIMER: The opinions expressed in this newspaper do not necessarily reflect those of Tennessee Tech University’s employees or of its administration.

SPORTS tntechoracle.com

Page 5 | October 4, 2013

Golden Eagles find a way to win against Indiana State

By JUSTIN MATHENEY Beat Reporter

The Tennessee Tech football team, stepping out of OVC play for the last time this season, pulled out a 38-37 win Saturday night in a nail biter against the Indiana State Sycamores. Head coach Watson Brown called it one of the hardest fought wins of which he has ever been a part.

“That was really tough,” Brown said. “That was the hardest earned win I have ever had as a head coach.

We kept hanging around and hanging around. We made a play when we had to. They didn’t and that was the difference for us.”

Despite being more than doubled in total yards and losing the time of possession battle, the Golden Eagles found a way to win. The Tech defense sacked Indiana State’s quarterback three times, picked off three passes and blocked three kicks.

Indiana State picked off starting quarterback Darian Stone on Tech’s first possession of the game. The Sycamores took advantage of the miscue quickly. Indiana State running back Shakir Bell took a screen pass 31 yards to pay dirt for the Sycamores, giving the visitors a 6-0 lead early in the first quarter.

On the following point after try, Golden Eagle senior defensive lineman Jordan Johnson blocked the attempt. That block would later prove to be the difference in the ball game.

Later in the first quarter, trailing 6-3, Johnson blocked a 20-yard field goal attempt. The loose ball was scooped up by senior defensive back James Huguely and returned 87 yards for a Golden Eagle touchdown, giving Tech a 10-6 lead.

Sophomore safety Bill Dillard would intercept a pass on the next series and Tech’s offense would capitalize on the mistake.

Senior running back Bud Golden would score from one yard out a minute and a half later. This was Golden’s first game of the season after sitting out the first four games due to academic issues. However, Golden’s night and season would be short lived. He later broke his leg and will miss the remainder of the season.

Tech went into halftime with a 24-12 advantage and the momentum over Indiana State.

The Sycamore’s stormed out in the third quarter outscoring Tech 22 to 7. Adding to Tech’s problems, Stone was knocked out of the game with a concussion on the first offensive possession following the half.

Sophomore nickel back Jimmy Laughlin came up with his first career interception halfway through the third quarter, returning the ball to the Indiana State 37-yard line. Redshirt freshman backup quarterback Jared

THURSDAY NIGHT BLACKOUT

By MEGAN WILLIAMSON Beat Reporter

The Golden Eagles will host their second blackout game when the team takes on the Tennessee Martin Skyhawks on Thursday, Oct. 10 at 7 p.m. Tailgate park opens at 4 p.m. and the Eagle Walk will begin at 4:45 p.m.

There will be black T-shirts for the first 2,500 people at the gate.

“I really enjoyed the blackout game last year,” said sophomore Bryce Kendrick. “It was

cool to see everyone coming together to support our Golden Eagles.”

The blackout game targets students in an effort to attract support for the sports teams on campus.

“Athletics are a huge bonus to our campus that not many students participate in. The teams on TTU’s campus never get the attention that they deserve,” said senior Allison Boshears, president of the Public Relations Club.

Not only will the fans dress in all black, but the football team will

be decked out in all black uniforms, too.

“As a team, we all enjoy the blackout game. It gives the team a little more energy and excitement when we get to wear them [the black uniforms],” said junior safety Cory Webber. “We get to look good which I feel gives us a boost of confidence before we even step on the field.”

“The team likes when more students show up to a game. The blackout game does that,” said junior offensive linemen Justin Ivory.

Volleyball still looking for first conference win of 2013 campaign

By MATTHEW HILL Beat Reporter

Coming off a tough loss last weekend in their home opener, the Golden Eagles will continue OVC play today as they head west for a 7 p.m. matchup against UT Martin.

Tech recorded its first OVC loss last Friday in a nail-biting 3-2 finish against Murray State.

The Golden Eagles played one point ahead for most of the first set as they traded points with Murray State until the 21-20 mark, when they fell to a close 25-23 loss.

Freshman Sharon Anderson was given the reins in the second set and led the Golden Eagle offense to a 25-19 second set win.

“I decided to give up a little bit of the defense and just put up more kills,” said head coach Dave Zelenock.

A loss in the third set sent the fourth set into chaos as the TTU fans were given a yellow card shortly after Murray State senior Katlyn Hudson was ejected. However, the chaos did not keep the Golden Eagles from taking the fourth set. The team closed the set with a 25-21 win.

Tech sat tied 2-2 going into the fifth and final set. Four straight Murray State kills gave the Racers a 5-point lead in the fifth that lead to the Golden Eagles’ defeat.

After coming up short of a victory on last Friday, Tech was unable to get its offense going as they lost 3-1 against Austin Peay on Saturday.

“Going into the weekend I was actually more nervous about Austin Peay than I was Murray,” said Zelenock. “I really felt the match was in our control but we gave away to many errors.”

Zelenock said they need to focus on playing their own game after tallying another OVC loss to Jacksonville State on Tuesday.

“We’re working on being us a little more,” said Zelenock. “We went into a very tough environment Tuesday and we played really slow, which is uncharacteristic of ourselves. We played to the speed of our opponent rather than just being us.”

After falling to 0-3 in the conference, Zelenock said he thinks today’s matchup will be better as the Golden Eagles look to record their first OVC win.

“UT Martin is a good team and they’re well coached. I think it is going to be a battle,” said Zelenock. “They also play like us and I think our chances are a lot better.

The Golden Eagles have lost nine of 12 sets in the past three matches by an average of only 3.7 points. Senior Natalie Penrod said the team is trying to fix this.

“We are letting wins slip right out of our hands.

Once we can figure out how to play 22 points on, we will be unstoppable,” said Penrod.

Jamal Ferguson Redshirt junior defensive back Marty Jones dives to make the tackle on the Indiana State ball carrier.

Jones would set a new career high and finish with 16 total tackles.

Davis engineered a 6-play drive, which ended with a 5-yard touchdown run from Davis.

Trailing 37-31, senior defensive lineman Malcolm Mitchell blocked a 40-yard field goal attempt, giving the ball back to the Golden Eagle offense with 5:40 left to play.

Davis marched the Golden Eagles down the field on a 12-play drive that took 4:29 off the clock.

Davis connected with senior receiver Zack Ziegler on first and goal from the 2-yard line for a touchdown, tying the game at 37. Zack Sharp’s point after attempt was good and

OVC special-teams player of the week for his two blocks. Johnson was also chosen as a College Sporting News All-Star.

Huguely was named CoDefensive Player of the Week for his contributions in Tech’s win. Huguely tallied 12 tackles in addition to his 87-yard touchdown.

Tech will be getting back into OVC play when the team travels to Murray State this weekend. Murray possesses an explosive offense. The Murray offense will test the Golden Eagles defensively on the edges this Saturday at 3 p.m. at Stewart Stadium.

put Tech up 38-37.

Indiana State would get the ball back with a little over a minute to play and trailing by one. The Sycamores quickly moved the ball into Golden Eagle territory. On fourth and three from the Tech 35, Indiana State quarterback Mike Perish threw his final interception. Pressured

by Laughlin, Perish rolled out toward the sideline and threw off balance into traffic. The ball was tipped into the air and intercepted by junior corner Tevin McDermott, sealing the victory for the Golden Eagles.

Johnson was named

Soccer wins OVC opener, drops second match

By EMILY HOMAN Beat Reporter

Sophomore goalkeeper Jordan Brown had 10 saves during the game, earning back-to-back shutouts for the season.

“The defensive unit with the five in the back was fantastic,” Brizard said.

“Jordan came up with a couple of huge saves as well and played a great game.

Overall it was an all-around team win.”

The team was able to keep the scoring gate open, but was unable to come up with a win Sunday versuses Eastern Illinois.

The Golden Eagles were able to capitalize on their opportunities first, scoring in the 21st minute off a corner kick from junior Katie Phillips. However, an explosive spurt of three Panther goals in the span of just over

two minutes in the end first half proved to be too much for Tech.

Tech bounced back after halftime from a Taylor Blazei goal off another Iaciofano cross in the 48th minute, but EIU found the back of the net in the 85th minute to seal the deal 4-2.

“Sunday definitely opened our eyes to the fact that anybody can win at any given time in the OVC,“ Iaciofano said. “We just need to remember to play strong, hard and fast all the time.”

The team will play at home Friday at 3 p.m. and 2 p.m. on Sunday. Both matches will be broadcast on the Golden Eagles Sports Network in partnership with the OVC Digital Network.

The Golden Eagle soccer team started off its OVC campaign last weekend with a win over Southern Illinois- Edwardsville and a loss to Eastern Illinois.

Tech (3-7, 1-1) earned its second shutout of the season against SIUE. “The team dug deep and decided that they weren’t going to give up and find a way to win this match,” fourth-year head coach Daniel Brizard said.

Senior Shannon Rountree tallied her second goal of the season in the match. Fellow senior, Ellie Iaciofano, slid a pass to Rountree who shot 20 yards out, scoring in the 20th minute of play. “ W e knew that BAD ROOMMATE they were one of the Takes advantage best teams THE PERFECT PERFECT ROOMMATE: OOMMA E: in the conference and they were a fast-paced team,” Iaciofano said. “After we scored the goal, we needed to keep limiting their chances.”

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ENTERTAINMENT Page 6 | October 04, 2013

tntechoracle.com

Must see movies of October ‘Rush’ is a true storyy filled with thrill

By JAKE THREET Entertainment Editor

Fall is here and that means one thing for moviegoers- a mix of award season candidates and blockbuster films will be filling the screen. In part one of my fall preview, the month of October has some awesome choices for moviegoers. I am listing some that I believe will be the biggest hits, but there are plenty more that may surprise. November and December only get better, but lets keep it in the month of October for right now.

‘Gravity’ In what looks to be an absolutely stunning and powerful film, ‘Gravity’ is the story of a medical engineer (Sandra Bullock) and an astronaut (George Clooney) working together to survive after an accident leaves them adrift in space. Now, that doesn’t sound so enticing just reading it on a page.

However, I encourage you to watch a trailer for this film.

There are no words to describe how visually stunning the effects are or how powerful and intense the story will be.

Already screened in many of the fall film festivals around the globe, there is an overall opinion about ‘Gravity’ - that it is a hit on all cylinders.

Bullock is being praised for her performance. Some have characterized her role as her best performance to date.

Many suspect she is the lead contender, so far, in the race for all of the Lead Actress categories at awards season.

‘Gravity’ opens in theaters today and I’ll be there for the 7:00 p.m. showing.

‘Captain Phillips’ Tom Hanks really knows how to pick a solid film role. Hanks stars in this true story about Captain Richard Phillips whose ship, the USflagged MV Maersk Alabama, was hijacked in 2009 by Somali pirates. It was the first American cargo ship to be hijacked in 200 years. Judging

By HANNAH BENJAMIN Entertainment Critic

Courtesy of Apna Timepass

After early screenings, Sandra Bullock is receiving the best critical acclaim of her career for her performance in ‘Gravity’. by the trailer, this looks to be another smash hit for Hanks.

Premiering at the New York Film Festival in late September, critics were outstandingly enthralled by the film. It was praised as Hanks’ best film in years. ‘Captain Phillips’ opens nationwide Oct. 11. ’12 Years a Slave’ Coming out of the film festival season, ’12 Years a Slave’ may have the most buzz surrounding it. The film is based on the true-life story and autobiography of Solomon Northup. Portrayed

by Chiwetel Ejiofor, Northup is a free black man from upstate New York who is abducted and sold into slavery. The trailer is chalked full of powerful emotion and acting. The film has received universal acclaim while being showed at the film festivals and is sure to be a leader in all categories at awards season. ’12 Years a Slave’ has an incredibly talented ensemble cast that is sure to make this film a knockout. ’12 Years a Slave’ opens in limited release on Oct. 18.

‘Carrie’ In this highly anticipated remake of the 1976 classic by the same name, we look to be getting an updated version of the old script. Judging from the trailer, the story is almost the same but the effects and destruction seem to have worsened. It will be interesting to see how this reboot does, but the buzz around it is there and people will go to watch.

Chloë Grace Moretz portrays Carrie and her casting has

‘Breaking Bad’ smokes out

By KIMMY MANNING Entertainment Critic

“Well done.”

“Perfect.”

“Best written show.”

“That was the only way it could have ended.”

All those phrases flooded our news feeds on Facebook, Twitter and other streams of communication regarding the “Breaking Bad” series finale, which aired Sept.

29.

I wish I were a part of this fandom, but I unfortunately didn’t catch on until it was too late. However, with all these glorified praises on my news feed, I decided there had to be some good substance to this television show.

After much research I concluded this: Similarly to fans of “LOST” or “The Sopranos,” people felt connected to the characters, as if this life on their television screen were just an extension of their own.

An article in “Time” magazine said, “’Felina,’ the last episode ever of the magnificent series ‘Breaking Bad,’ was a kind of machine gun of

narrative, knocking down all of those questions with auto-fire efficiency.”

Within this show we got to witness redemption, restoration and, most importantly, reality. Fans are repetitively praising the show’s authentic and true story line. The good character doesn’t always have a fairy tale ending.

This show depicted actual life, and it finished in a valid way.

Walter White (Brian Cranston) “died on his own terms” and passed away “as a noble, selfsacrificing hero rather than a tragic figure whose soul shifted from man to monster.”

Though I did not witness the full accounts of this show, I can see that the creator, Vince Gilligan, wanted to be different.

Gilligan wasn’t trying to confuse, trick or deceive.

He was trying to be real and that is what makes his production different than the others.

Because of its multiple Primetime Emmy Awards and hyped acclaim, “Breaking Bad” seems to be more real than reality television. I highly recommend going back and watching this show, and I haven’t even seen it myself.

me skeptical, but she looks promising in the trailer. The casting of Julianne Moore as Margret White, Carrie’s mother, is genius. I foresee her stealing many scenes. ‘Carrie’ opens Oct. 18.

‘The Counselor’ Action packed, thrilling and twisted are the words that come to mind when describing the trailer for Ridley Scott’s upcoming drama and thriller, ‘The Counselor’. The film tells the story of a greedy lawyer (Michael Fassbender) who finds himself in over his head when he decides to delve into the dark world of drug trafficking. Along the way, we meet his naive girlfriend Laura (Penelope Cruz), a seedy middleman named Westray (Brad Pitt), Reiner and Malkina (Javier Bardem and Cameron Diaz), a mysterious and dangerous couple, and Ruth (Rosie Pérez), a prison inmate represented by the lawyer.

‘The Counselor’ arrives in theaters Oct. 25.

Those five are sure to be the most talked about, but some others to keep an eye on include: ‘Runner Runner’, ‘Escape Plan’, ‘The Fifth Estate’, and ‘Jackass Presents: Bad Grandpa’. All upcoming film releases, news, and trailers can be found at comingsoon.net.

Leaving something for everyone, this fascinating biopic from Ron Howard is so much more than a movie about racing. Chris Hemsworth and Daniel Brühl lead as 1970s Formula One racers James Hunt and Niki Lauda, men whose hatred for each other drives an intense competition for the World Champion title. This film captures the excitement and danger of the track while expertly illustrating the unhealthy rivalry that made Hunt and Lauda famous.

The film is actionpacked from the start and clearly outlines the stark differences between Hunt (Hemsworth) and Lauda (Brühl). James Hunt is a glamorous and wild party boy, winning races purely on heart and risk.

Niki Lauda is unlikable but careful and precise, well aware of the dangers of racing and using his skills to his advantage.

The movie is true to the real story of these drivers, but is easy to pick up from audience members that may not be fluent in racing terms and lingo from the 1970s.

“Rush” is strong in character development for the two leads and makes it difficult for the audience to choose which side to root for. Unfortunately, as a result, the other characters in the movie are forgettable. For example, James Hunt marries model Suzy Miller (Olivia Wilde) and within a few scenes, she has left him without

Courtesy of IMP Awards

Daniel Brühl revealed that Niki Lauda has given his stamp of approval for ‘Rush’ and Brühl’s performance in the film.

leaving much impact on the overall story. After Lauda’s infamous accident, his wife (Alexandra Lara) has to face his disfigurement and an overwhelming amount of invasive press, yet the character falls flat as nothing more than a supportive bystander.

The pacing of “Rush” is also uncomfortable.

An immense amount of backstory takes up most of the movie’s first hour and, because the other characters aren’t as interesting, it seems wasteful. The film picks up speed towards Lauda’s accident, recovery and the final races and seems to literally “rush” through the action. The film loses some intensity that major sport movies are

expected to have, but still maintains an edge-of-theseat feel during the final championship race.

“Rush”, despite these pitfalls, is a fascinating rivalry story and generates an interest for Formula One racing audiences may not have before watching.

Hemsworth and Brühl are brilliant in their portrayal of their characters and the cinematography makes every scene worthwhile.

This film may be one to keep an eye on come Oscar season, except for maybe best screenplay and supporting actors.

“Rush” is rated R for sexual content, nudity, some disturbing images, language, and brief drug use.