Lee Clarion 64.5

Special HOMECOMING spread See it on pages 4 & 5

Lee’s “dunk boy” Read the story on page 9

Professor or Poet? ... or both?

Read the story on page 3

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Lee clarion www.leeclarion.com

November 6, 2009

Eternal flame returns to Lee

Volume 64, Issue 5

SLC hosts clothing drive Students partner with local church to more effectively distribute clothes The Student Leadership Council collected more than 2,400 items during their annual clothing drive from Oct. 19 to Oct 30.

By TAYLOR MOBLEY Staff Writer

Lee Clarion photo by Shashank Shrestha

Memorial walkway: A worker lays bricks around the new fountain. Some bricks are inscribed with the names of donors who helped to fund the project.

Just in time for Homecoming weekend, the new Eternal Flame and Fountain on the Lee University campus will be completed.

By KATE MERLENKO Staff Writer Alpha Gamma Chi announced during last year’s Homecoming that the Eternal Flame would be in the lawn just south of the DeVos Recreation Center. TriCon, Inc. is the company that rebuilding the fountain.

“The original flame was dedicated at Homecoming 1993,” said Mike Hayes, assistant vice president for student development, “but the club [Alpha Gamma Chi] had begun working on it back in 1989.”

“A group of representatives [mostly Alpha Gamma Chi presidents] from each of the 30 years were there as part of the official lighting ceremony,” Brian Conn said, director of public information for Lee University.

The reopening of the fountain will be “somewhat quiet” because it had been already dedicated in 1993, See LEE on page 2

On Oct. 29 and 30, SLC partnered with the Kairos Scholars and Gateway classes to help sort the mounds of clothes.

“The incredible thing about the clothing drive is that it gets the whole campus involved, truly helps out the community, and it shows us that we can’t do things alone,” senior Jessica Hill said. “There has been so much energy throughout the sorting process. It has been a great time to be together.”

On Oct. 31, SLC hosted a free clothing store for residents of East Cleveland at Mount Olive East Church of God. SLC partnered with Crossover to advertise the clothing store to needy residents in the area.

Those in need were able to come to the store and shop for whatever they need.

This is the third year SLC has hosted the clothing drive but this a trial run for the clothing store. During the first two years, SLC sorted the clothes

and drove them to the people of East Cleveland.

“This was great because we were able to actually go to where the people are and serve them in that way, but we needed something a little more stable,” Hill said.

Hill was a member of the committee that initiated the clothing drive in Fall 2007.

Senior Rochelle Mayberry was also a member of the original committee and is still involved with the clothing drive.

“It has been great to see something that started as such a small idea turn into such a huge success,” Hill said. “By partnering with Mount Olive East, I hope to establish this project so that I can leave behind something that will last.”

Hill and Mayberry are passing on the leadership of the clothing drive to sophomore Audrey Jackson. Jackson was participating in the clothing drive for the first time.

“After all the work of planning and advertising it, it didn’t really feel real to me until I saw all the clothes that came in,” Jackson said. “This has definitely been a learning experience.”

E-mail Taylor at taylor.mobley@leeclarion.com.

LeeU Alert system tested with limited success On Nov. 3, Lee University tested the LeeU Alert emergency text message system.

By OLUWANIFEMI AFELUMO Staff Writer & JOYANNA WEBER News Editor However, not all students received the message, even though they were registered. Nathaniel Tucker, associate director of Information Services and Technology, said Verizon and AT&T blocked the messages because the system saw it as SPAM. Tucker said more than half of the 1,601 people registered with the LeeU Alert system are Verizon customers. Lee is working with these companies to lift

the block from anything that is from Lee University.

Students who did receive the text said the system was a good idea.

Ashley Sechrist, a senior Intercultural Studies major, said the LeeU Alert system was beneficial.

"I think it could solve a lot of problems the campus has with communiation," Jon Botset, a freshman church music major, said.

The LeeU Alert system is a system that allows messages to be sent to students’ cell phones during an emergency. Students can activate this system by going to Portico and signing up by adding their cell phone number and network carrier.

For those who do not have cell phones, there would be emergency information on the Lee’s Web site, on Lee's Face-

book page, on LeeU Twitter and on LeeU Alert Twitter for emergency messages.

Dr. Walt Mauldin, vice president for student life, said examples of the text message alerts include “EMERGENCY ALERT: Please proceed to the Paul Dana Walker Arena" or "Lee University classes CANCELLED TODAY due to weather.”

In September, a mass email was sent out asking students to register their cell phone number in the system. The email also stated that one thousand people were registered in the system. Mauldin said such a system has been used on other campuses and "should work well here at Lee." “The messages are going to be sent See SUCCESS on page 2

Global Gift Shop encourages fair trade

Lee Clarion photo by Jill Singerman

This year, students will have ogy lab in the Mayfield Annex, “We talked Ten Thousand Vil- “Fair Trade eliminates exploi- Helping hands: Ben Workman helps a young customer an opportunity to get a jump the shop is be open Monday lages and within three weeks tation of people who have no of the clothing drive store try on a pair of shoes. start on the Christmas craziness through Friday from 11:30 a.m. they sent us seven thousand other way to make money or and make a difference with until 1:30 p.m. and from 4 p.m. dollars worth of supplies to host work,” Kopp said. “Fair trade their Christmas shopping by until 6 p.m. until Nov. 6. our festival,” Dirksen said. helps individuals and commuAfter being inspired by Dr. Fair trade is a social movement nities to not be stuck in povvisiting the Global Gift Shop.

Murl Dirksen, chair of the histo- that pursues equality in interna- erty.” ry and political science, during tional trade and provides those Ten Thousand Villages marBy TAYLOR MOBLEY a summer cultural anthropol- in impoverished countries with kets the products here in the The Lee University men’s paced game with lots of Staff Writer ogy class, seniors Alyse Kopp the opportunity to create prod- United States to raise aware- basketball team, ranked pressing on defense and The Global Gift Shop is a fair and Katie Johnson, took the ucts to be sold at a fair price to ness for the fair trade move- 13th in the country in pre- pushing the ball more for trade shop where students and initiative to contact Ten Thou- help sustain their community. ment and to tell the stories of season polls, is geared up fast breaks on offense." other members of the commu- sand Villages, a prominent fair These artisans use the money the poverty that exists in third and ready for the 2009-2010 The dynamic of the the team has changed as well nity can purchase hand made trade organization, to get more to help fund their basic needs world countries. Items for sale season. when it comes to size and goods from artisans around the information about bringing fair like food, education for their include hand-knitted scarves By CHRISTIN WALKER speed. world. Located in the archeol- trade to Lee’s campus. children and health care.

See TRADE on page 2 Staff Writer “We may be smaller than last year’s team,” junior After losing five play- transfer Teddrick Hardy ers from last season, four said, “but we’re quicker of which were starters, and know how to spread the Coach Tommy Brown has floor better with our key welcomed in a promising shooters.” recruiting class. These re- Bench depth is going to cruits along with returning be key this season when players will have a com- the games are fast-paced. It pletely different look than is going to be essential to what Lee University has keep players' legs fresh and seen in the past. ready to get the job done.

"It's going to be much “Our team definitely has different than a year ago," more bench depth this graduate assistant coach year,” junior transfer Jerel Matt Sanders said. "We're Blocker said. "There will going to play more people, be a lot of subbing."

Lee Clarion photo by Shashank Shrestha more often, setting a fastSee GOALS on page 8 Cross cultural shopping: The Global Gift Shop provides students a chance to buy wares from other cultures.

Flames basketball tips off new season with high goals

News quick 2

read

Lee Clarion | november 6, 2009  Lee University will hold its annual missions week Nov. 16-20. This year’s theme will be “Building Schools, Building Children, Building Dreams,” and all funds raised will go to the university’s mission project in the Bahamas.

on campus

 Lee University Theatre will present “You Can’t Take It With You” on Nov. 6, 2009, at 8 p.m. in the Dixon Center auditorium during Homecoming weekend. Dr. Mark Burnette is directing the Pulitzer Prize winning play. The play will also be performed on Nov. 7, 13 and 14 at 8:00 p.m. and Nov. 8 and 15 at 2:00 p.m.

 The Lee University Jazz Ensemble, under the direction of Mr. Alan Wyatt, will perform in the Dixon Center on Nov. 10, 2009, at 7:30 p.m. Featured in the program will be professional arrangements from the GRP All Star Big Band, the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra and the Toshiko Akiyoshi Big Band.

 Lee University political science professor Dr. Jung In Jo recently attended the Salzburg Global Seminar in Salzburg, Austria, after being awarded a fellowship of the Andrew W. Mellon foundation by Appalachian College Association.

Lee Clarion

New ministry bridges the generation gap

The Lee Clarion is a studentproduced and universitysponsored publication of Lee University in Cleveland, Tenn.

Students take time to reach out a kind hand to the residents of Cleveland Towers Students of The Bridge are part of a growing ministry reaching out to the older generations on Lee University’s doorstep.

By KATE MERLENKO Staff Writer The Bridge was started at the end of last semester by Rebekah Melvin, a sophomore with an undeclared major, and several of her friends when they began going to North Cleveland Towers, a senior apartment complex located behind Lee University’s Center for Humanities.

Melvin said they started the ministry “to give the students an opportunity to develop relationships with the residents in North Cleveland Towers as a way of both encouraging them and getting encouraged.”

Melvin also said this ministry is an opportunity to invest in people’s lives and have people invest in there lives.

“Bridge allows students not only to connect with older generations, but it helps us to learn from them,” freshman psychology major Katie Wilson said.

October was an important month for the new ministry because they hosted their first big event on campus to raise awareness about The Bridge and get more people involved

in the ministry.

Melvin and other members shared information and told about their experience about this ministry. Melvin said the ministry is planning on having more events in the near future.

Lee University students enjoy spending time with seniors from Cleveland Towers, Wilson said.

“There were 10 students at the kickoff and the number has varied in the Saturdays that have followed,” Melvin said.

Volunteers usually meet in the lobby to serve the residents a meal. Then they fellowship, play music, share their personal stories and visit with the residents.

“They asked us a lot about our majors because they usually have some relatives who majored in the same subjects, ” Wilson said.

Residents also asked the students about their future careers and what they were going to do when they finish school.

The Bridge meets every Saturday around 6:45 p.m. and lasts for about two hours.

Those interested in becoming a part of The Bridge ministry can contact Rebekah Melvin at rmelvi00@leeu. edu for more information.

E-mail Kate at kate.merlenko@leeclarion.com.

Managing Editor Michelle Bollman News Editor Joyanna Weber Life Editor Nathan McKay OPINION EDITOR Sara Dawson Lee Clarion photo by Shashank Shrestha

going green: A panel addressed various environmental topics during the Creation Care symposium Oct. 30-31.

Lee hosts ‘A Call To Care’

Lee students, faculty and community members flooded the Dixon Center auditorium on Oct. 30 to hear a panel of scientists and theologians from Harvard Medical School’s Center for Health and the Global Environment speak about an important and all-inclusive issue: saving the planet.

By MARY BETH GRAY Staff Writer "Creation: A Call to Care" was a symposium dedicated to addressing the problems of climate change and biodiversity loss. This two-day symposium brought together many speakers including Paul Epstein, Nobel Peace Prize winner and associate director of the Center for Health and Global Environment at Harvard Medical School, and Carl Safina, president and co-founder of the Blue-Ocean Institute.

Other speakers included Joel Hunter, pastor of 12,000 member Northland Church; Cheryl Bridges Johns, professor of Christian Formation at the Pentecostal Theological Seminary and Nancy Sleath, author of "Go Green; $ave Green."

These scientists and theologians, came togethor from a variety of backgrounds to educate about the issues facing our planet and the creatures that inhabit it.

“We seek to inspire a new generation to care for the earth,” Johns said.

Safina spoke on the effects of over-fishing and polluting the ocean waters on fish and bird life. He also emphasized that everything done against has long ranging effects.

“There is no such thing as throwing something away; it’s throwing it to someone else," Safina said.

Suzanna Brozozog, Lee ju-

Land purchase makes way for more parking Lee University recently ac- This fact is welcomed by quired land that it had been students such as Crystal Fentrying to purchase since ty, a sophomore psychology 1994. major.

“We definitely need more

By JOYANNA WEBER [parking],”Fenty said, adding News Editor that she often gets annoyed trying to find a spot.

Success came last month Marion Ritterbush, a sophowhen Lee was finally able to more theology major, said she purchase the house that sat was glad Lee had the land as behind the School of Music long as it was not being taken building. Over the years the away from anyone. house had become surround- Lindsey Powers, a junior ed by the School of Music advertising major, suggested parking lot. that Lee could have kept the The house was torn down house and used it for student over fall break and work has housing. However, for Jake begun on converting the land Ambury , a junior physical into an extension of the lot.

Education major, the deciDr. Paul Conn, president of sion makes sense because the Lee University, said the land house was old. is expected to be converted E-mail Joyanna at joyanna. into a parking lot within a weber@leeclarion.com. week.

Lee Clarion photo by Jennifer James

paving the way: Workers prepare the newly purchased land to extend the music building parking lot. PORTLAND, MAINE Nov. 3, 53 percent of Maine voters repealed the state’s law allowing gay marriage only six months after the it was signed by the govenor. Gay rights activists vow that the fight is not yet over and that they will continue in their struggle for equal rights of marriage.

nation

Washington - House Democratic leaders, while insisting they have the finish line in sight on their $1 trillionplan to overhaul the nation’s health care system, have hit a last minute-snag on perhaps the most divisive issue in domestic politics: abortion.

 Lee University is holding an art exhibit in the Squires Recital Hall lobby of the Humanities Center from until Nov.13.

The exhibit will feature the works of Marie Spaeder Haas.

Haas has been painting and drawing from her earliest days growing up in Erie, Pennsylvania.

Sports Editor Saralyn Norkus Copy Editor Sara Dawson

nior and native of the Bahamas, related what was being Multimedia Editor said to what she witnessed at Beecher Reuning home. She remembers watching seagulls fly in large groups Design Editor overhead when she was young, Brady Callahan and now there are none left.

“Tonight I wasn’t shocked by Managing all that he talked about because Photography Editor I’ve been seeing that in my life Shashank Shrestha at home,” Brozozog said.

Sleath said people can show Faculty Adviser their love for God and others Mr. Kevin S. Trowbridge by caring for the world.

"It’s time for campuses like © 2009 Lee University Lee to stand up and become Student Media leaders and a light unto the world,” Sleath said.

All opinions expressed Students can be a part of helpherein are those of the ing the enviroment in a variety author and do not necessarof little ways. ily reflect the views of Lee “This is the easiest move- University or the Church of ment to be a part of. If you God. leave the room and turn off the light, you are a member of the P.O. Box 3450 group.” said Hunter.

Cleveland, Tenn 37320 E-mail Mary Beth at maryletters@leeclarion.com beth.gray@leeclarion.com. www.leeclarion.com

Success

Lee Clarion photo by Shashank Shrestha

FINISHING TOUCHES: Workers hope that the fountain will be operable by Homecoming weekend.

Lee Continued from page 1 Brian said.

Hayes said the Eternal Flame and Fountain has a lot of symbolism. The fountain symbolizes the fact that we are Lee Flames, and it is the university “mascot,” but it also “captures the essence of our spiritual [religious] heritage,” Hayes said.

The original flame was built to honor Dr. Don and Nancy Bowdle for “the contributions they made to Lee and Alpha Gamma Chi,” said Cole Strong, administrative assistant to the president.

Dr. Bowdle was a founding sponsor for Chi and Mrs. Bowdle was an essential to

the club and an important member of Lee. Mrs. Bowdle has since passed away from a serious sickness, while Dr. Bowdle still teaches at Lee in the School of Religion. The fountain was demolished when the Walker Arena was under renovation to enlarge the lobby area for people to mingle prior to games.

Conn said the fountain would be “a nice addition to campus” because of the symbolism that it holds for the university.

E-mail Kate at kate.merlenko@leeclarion.com.

See the Lee Clarion video of the building of the Eternal Flame only at LeeClarion.com. San Jose, Calif. Google’s ambitious plan to scan millions of old, out-ofprint books, many of them forgotten in musty university libraries, has turned into one of the biggest controversies in the young company’s history.

Washington - Despite a rising nationwide toll of sickness caused by the H1N1 flu virus and an intensive push by the government to have people vaccinated for it, almost half of Americans say they aren’t likely to get the vaccine, according to a new McClatchy-Ipsos poll.

Continued from page 1 anytime there is an emergency like a tornado warning and it’s only for emergency purpose at this time,” Tucker said.

Yet, the system was not used during a tornado warning in early October.

Ashley Mew, the director of Campus Safety, said the National Weather Service had issued the tornado watch even though a tornado had not been spottted. Since a tornado had not been sighted there was no immediate threat.

"Part of our emergency plan

is to assess the situation,"Mew said.

Mew said he also received "emergency notification from Bradley County 911" during the tornado warning. Maudin said that President Paul Conn would have the final say whether or not to use the LeeU Alert system in an emergency situation.

E-mail Oluwanifemi at oluwanifemi.afelumo@leeclarion.com or Joyanna at joyanna. weber@leeclarion.com.

Trade Continued from page 1 from Nepal, boxes made of cinnamon wood from Vietnam, woven baskets from Bangladesh and unique jewelry from all over the world.

Local items from the Hispanic community in Cleveland are being featured as well.

“I work with Backyard Ministries and have been wanting to find an outlet for the people I work with to sell their goods for a long time to help support themselves so this is the perfect opportunity,” senior Iris Clement said.

Clement said items from the Hispanic community will include “jewelry as well as homemade food such as tamales and cheesecake for order.”

Eventually the students hope to open a fair trade store in Cleveland. The closest fair

trade location is in Chattanooga. The students are talking with local church, Broad Street United Methodist Church, about sponsoring this dream.

“We are hoping that Broad Street will see this as an aspect of their ministry,” Kopp said, adding that fair trade ventures are made possible through volunteers.

In an effort to raise more awareness among alumni, they will be setting up a booth to sell goods at Homecoming.

“Most people just don’t know that shopping fair trade is an option. Our goal is to let them know that it is an important aspect we should all consider,” Kopp said.

E-mail Taylor at taylor.mobley@leeclarion.com.

Irvine, Calif. - Goldman Sachs was one of the last Wall Street giants to enter the subprime lending world, but when it did, it quickly climbed into bed with profligate, highflying firms _ companies such as New Century Financial Corp.

SanFrancisco,Calif.Microsoft Corp., saddled with flagging software sales thanks to the lingering recession, made an additional, unexpected round of job cuts on Wednesday. Microsoft spokesman Lou Gellos confirmed that the Redmond, Wash.-based company is laying off 800 workers, as part of a broader effort to reduce costs as growth slows.

life favor of

november 6, 2009 | Lee Clarion

Professor turns poet Dr. Kevin Brown has recently published a book of poems, "Exit Lines."

By ALEXANDRIA ROY Staff Writer Brown has been writing poetry for over a decade but in the last few years he has become more serious about it.

“I had a poem accepted at a journal that had been beyond my reach a few years before, so I saw that I was improving as a writer," Brown said.

Then He began submitting book-length manuscripts to publishers, and was eventually accepted by Plain View Press.

Browns inspirations for his writings come from a variety of places.

“It can be something I read or a memory from childhood,” said Brown.

Recently Brown has implemented a formal system so that he can be sure to write daily.

“I am writing a series of poems based on the Catholic liturgical calendar," Brown said. "There are a group of scriptures for every day, usually a saint and occasionally a High Holy Day, such as Christmas or

LOVE

Easter. I use an idea from those to spark a poem, which I try to turn into more of a metaphor.”

While Brown enjoys writing poetry in his free time, he also loves being an associate professor of English at Lee. He said his favorite part about working at Lee is “the moment when a student gets something.”

He said students sometimes slowly increase their knowledge and ability over their entire time at Lee, and other times a student will realize something right in the middle of a discussion, thus growing instantaneously.

“That’s why I teach," Brown said. "To help students get to where they want or need to be, even if they don’t know where that is at that moment.”

The poems in "Exit Lines" are mainly about faith and love. "Exit Lines" can be purchased at Brown's Web site, http:// www.KevinBrownWrites.com, or the publisher's Web site, http://www.PlainViewPress.com.

E-mail Alexandria at alexandria.roy@leeclarion.com.

Stop overanalyzing your relationships and just live Have you ever sat through an English class in which you were analyzing some particular work and caught yourself thinking, “where in the world does this professor come up with this stuff?”

By BEN JONES Love Columnist

Lee Clarion photo by Shashank Shrestha

Fiesta Latina brings taste of Latin American culture to Alumni Park Thursday, Oct. 22 in Alumni Park, Familia Unida and Sigma Delta Pi Fiesta Latina, a festival highlighting and celebrating Latin American culture.

By KRISTEN WOHLEBER Staff Writer To set the mood, the gazebo was decorated with colorful lights while festive music was played.

The evening began with a salsa dance lesson. The students present were invited to learn a few basic salsa moves.

“I think that the salsa dancing shows a real fun, relaxed side of the culture,” junior Kayla Williams said. “I had a good time letting loose

and just having fun with my friends.”

After the salsa lesson, delicious Mexican food was served from local restaurant Monterrey’s for all to eat.

“The food was my favorite part! It was scrumptious,” junior Elyna Russell said.

Senior Alyssa Coleman was glad to be at the Fiesta Latina, because it gave her a chance to take a quick break from studying for her theology exam, grab some dinner and spend time with friends.

“It was too beautiful of a night to stay inside studying, so I took advantage of Fiesta Latina and jumped into Latin American culture for an hour or so. It was just the break that I needed. I loved that I ran into so many of my

friends there,” Coleman said.

“I think the event was a success, I hope to see more events like this in the future,” sophomore John Watkins said.

“There seems to be a lot of community among the student groups putting it on and among the faculty supervisors, I can tell that Familia Unida and Sigma Delta Pi put a lot of time and effort into planning this.” Russell said.

“I like that this event was unique from other events I have been to on campus, and I hope to come again next year,” Williams said.

E-mail Kristen at kristen. wohleber@leeclarion.com.

Travel Column

No place like in between

Lee Clarion photo by Juliane Kaurrman

on the road again: Road trips can be great opportunites to see new places, but be prepared for the drawbacks that might come your way.

With a full tank of gas, cup of coffee and a back seat of laundry, I headed south a few weeks ago for a spontaneous road trip to Florida.

By JULIANE KAUFFMAN Travel Columnist This was one of many trips and by now I know every speed trap and Starbucks down Interstate 75. Yet, every time I pass Cleveland city limits, watching my speedometer creep higher, I still feel a thrill.

Road trips are an American novelty. Thanks to the endless ribbon of interstate that thread our states together, I can travel as far as my car will take me. This is the American freedom.

Like so many country songs suggest, road trips are therapeutic. As the miles and past gather behind, all possibilities are open and you can start over.

When I drive home, I watch the day progress as I pass through Georgia and into Florida. I can predict an afternoon in Atlanta, evening in Macon, dusk in Tifton and night in Lake City.

At night, the interstate becomes a string of blurring white and red headlights with the occasional blue flashers to keep you on your toes.

The best place to stop as you drive is the rest areas. There are the parents herding their children to the bathrooms and the lone trucker buying instant coffee from a vending machine.

Occasionally there’s the retired couple who

3

Movie Review “Blair Witch” spinoff meets unprecedented success When the Halloween season comes around, the cinema is packed with typical gruesome torture films, filled with redundancy and unjustified killing.

By KEVIN BROWN Staff Writer But this time, we are treated to a different, gonzo type of horror film with “Paranormal Activity.”

The film plays out in a mockumentary, hand-held camera style and documents the horrific account of Micah and Katie, a couple going through the motions of dealing with a ghostly entity.

The couple lives in a decent, quiet suburban home, modernly decorated, offering the feeling of being new.

Since she was a child, Katie has been experiencing the feeling of a ghost following and tormenting her, even to their new home. Micah decides to video capture their daily lives, particularly at night while they sleep, to discover if any strange occurrences take place.

The couple brings in a psychic, who feels the ghost is actually a demon. He advises them to seek a demonologist to come to the house and hopefully rid of it.

As the days progress, more occurrences take place and the couple’s relationship begins to suffer, particularly for Katie, who is battling the entity. Micah also begins to fatigue, trying to figure out solutions and ways to be through with the situation.

The payoff to the film is one

of the best I can recall in recent film watching and is certainly worth waiting for.

Made by first time director Oren Peli with only one week of shooting and a budget of $15,000, this is an independent filmmakers dream come true; “Activity” is now the most profitable film ever made.

Gathering no name actors and shacking up in his California home, Peli sought to make a film that brought his childhood nightmares to reality.

What makes “Paranormal Activity” terrifying is realizing that real fear comes with waiting and not being thrown gruesome scenes of death every five minutes. Fear is all in the mind, and the film does a great job at understanding this and acting on it.

The film will continue to haunt you long after the film has finished. Making each strange sound or creak perhaps more than it really was.

“Paranormal Activity” plays with its audience and brings them to a point of no return, particularly in the last twenty minutes of the film. The first two acts build up to a climax that will make you cringe, smile, laugh or all three out of pure joy and horror.

There were multiple test endings shown at screenings; surprisingly, the current ending was inspired under the direction of Steven Spielberg. Due to the film’s unprecedented success, Paramount Pictures announced a sequel in 2012.

E-mail Kevin at kevin. brown@leeclarion.com.

stiffly walk their poodle by the picnic tables.

And then there is me, representing the typical college student with loud music, an overstuffed backseat and tireless stamina.

Road trips have their drawbacks. Breaking down two hundred miles from home and getting lost in Atlanta are not the most efficient ways to travel.

There have been times of torrential downpours and winds so strong, the car has blown out of my lane.

The most dreaded part of traveling would be traffic. Endless miles of creeping cars, monoxide poisoning and flashing lights are enough to drive a person mad.

However there is nothing more unexpected or recognizable as the sudden odor of road kill. I can smell it crescendo inside my car as I try to figure out if I should roll down the windows or lock in the good air as long as possible.

But for all its tediousness, everyone needs to go on a road trip. These epic rides initiate the end of one season in life and the beginning of the next.

In a world that is becoming smaller, we should not gloss over the inconvenience and effort of travel. The ancients considered distance as challenge, going to great lengths to move over land and sea, not an annoyance.

So whether you take a nine-hour drive to Chicago at Christmas or wind through the Appalachian Mountains in autumn, go. Just take the time to be in the moment of transition.

Lee Clarion photo by Shashank Shrestha E-mail Juliane at juliane.kauffman@lee- paper faces on parade: Three masked students enclarion.com. joy the festivities at Epsilon’s Masquerade on the Mall.

At a Glance: Masquerade

No matter how much they try to convince you that it’s true, you just can’t believe that the river next to Granny’s house is some symbol of Freudian style repressed sexuality. I mean after all, sometimes a river is just a river right?

In the same way that we can be forced to try and read more into a situation than may actually be there in a work of literature, we can be tempted to do that in the relationships that we are pursuing.

The overanalyzation (which apparently was not an actual word until right now) of relationships is a leading cause of their death here on campus. But before you can avoid falling into this trap, you need to determine whether or not you’re guilty of this relational faux-pas.

To do that, check the list of warning signs, presented to you in the styling of Foxworthy: If you read text messages more than once and ask your roommate what they mean, you might be an overanalyzer.

If you have pulled up the same wall-to-wall more than once this week, you might be an overanalyzer.

If you asked a girl to go to the movies with you and she told you that she had to work so you called her job site to check her schedule, you might be incredibly creepy.

Doing any of these things?

Stop it.

There’s no need to overanalyze a situation as much as we sometimes have the tendency to do. While the extreme of this – never putting thought into a relationship – wouldn’t be a good thing either, if we spend all of our time analyzing every little move a person seems to take either towards us or away from us then we’ll drive ourselves crazy in the process. Our stress level will shoot through the roof.

So what is the solution then? Live. Simply live.

Make moves. Make mistakes. Take action towards a situation. Don’t worry about having all the pieces together before taking a look at the puzzle.

And another important thing to do? Pray. If we live our lives and stay close to God in the process, then He’ll help us make the right decisions and we won’t spend the majority of our days mulling over the could’ve, should’ve, and would’ves of life.

We’ll be content and satisfied knowing that He’s in the process of working it all out in a way that meets our needs better than we ever could’ve imagined.

I must take this opportunity to thank the lovely ladies of Simmons Hall – Bethany Sprague, Elizabeth Ware and Kelsie Bowman – for their fantastic reading of my column on a Facebook video. I was moved as much by the gesture as I was by the wisdom of my own words, and that’s saying something.

E-mail Ben at favoroflove@ yahoo.com.

homecoming Lee Clarion | november 6, 2009 “You Can’t Take It With You” debuts on Dixon Center’s stage

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Two worlds will collide on the Dixon Center stage this weekend as Lee University Theatre presents the Pulitzer Prize winning comedy "You Can't Take It With You" by Moss Hart and George S. Kaufman.

By Sara Dawson Opinions/Copy Editor Audiences attending the show will meet the Sycamores, an eccentric family during the Great Depression whose lifestyle of leisure and fun completely confounds the outside world of Wall Street and "proper" families.

From IRS agents and potential suitors to uptight uptown families and Russian imperialists, each guest in the Sycamore home soon realizes that this family is unlike any other.

When one member of the family begins to doubt the actions of her family and pine for a "normal" life, the Sycamores bind together to defend their life of simplicity and find support in one of the most unlikely of places.

The Sycamores, led by Grandpa (Martin Vanderhof), face each of the adven-

tures that come their way with such an innocent and absurd outlook that the audience will find themselves laughing at some of the ideas that cross the stage.

Even the set speaks to the nature of the show: a concrete design full of large patterns and strange objects lying about, very reminiscent of an "I Spy" photo book. The attention to detail is notable, as even the entrances and exits are creatively placed to keep the viewer guessing.

Sound effects are crucial to the flow of the show, and the reactions that go along with them add so much to the overall mood onstage.

The explosive nature of the action promises to grab the audience's attention and make them wonder what in the world could possibly happen next.

Costuming is, for the most part, quite in tune with the time period, and each of the actors has at least a slight grasp on the proper mannerisms of the Depression-era, accentuating much of the original writing and allowing the playwrights' intentions to be better seen.

The actors seem to fully

Lee Clarion photo by Shashank Shrestha

And action: Becca Ogle, Justin Waggoner, Maria Choi and John Griffis help to fill the stage with crazy antics. engulf themselves into the part: every absurd act seems as natural to them as walking to class in the morning, making the show even more hilarious for the audience.

Director Mark Burnette and Assistant Director/Stage Manager Stephanie Alexan-

drou exhibit a great attention to detail in the planning and pulling together of the production.

Barring technical difficulties, I predict a fairly clean run for this production and recommend it to anyone who loves theater, the ab-

surd, a good life lesson or all the above.

Will the power of doing what you like and liking what you do overcome the modern world of industrialism?

Come to the Dixon Center and find out: Nov. 6, 7, 13

Symphonic Band celebrates 20 years

Lady Flames volley for cure

Lee University’s Symphonic Band will celebrate its 20th anniversary during Homecoming weekend.

By ALEXANDRIA ROY Staff Writer & JOYANNA WEBER News Editor

Lee Clarion photo by Shashank Shrestha

Players with a cause: Last year, fans pinked out the Paul Dana Walker Arena to support the Lady Flames and raise breast cancer awareness.

Things are turning pink for Lee University’s Homecoming weekend as the women’s volleyball team hosts Volley for the Cure for the third time.

By Christin Walker Staff Writer The Lady Flames will take on University of Alabama-Huntsville at 7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 6, in Walker Arena to kick off the weekend of Homecoming festivities.

Volley for the Cure seems to be an appropriate culmination to the 25-year celebration of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October. For Lee, this event is a fundraiser for the Mary Ellen Locher Foundation in Chattanooga, Tenn.

The Mary Ellen Locher Founda-

tion provides secondary education scholarships for students who have lost a parent to breast cancer and students of breast cancer survivors.

The scholarship fund is specifically designed to lift the financial burdens of families affected by the disease.

“I am glad that I can be part of this big event,” senior volleyball player Gorana Maric said. “It’s going to be a fun game to play, and the fact that whole event is inspired by good cause motivates us to play with a different kind of intensity.”

The theme for this year’s match is “Paint the Town Pink.” Pink T-shirts will be sold for $5 on campus before an after chapel on Tuesday and Thursday and during the match on Friday.

Shirts will also be sold at The Plastic Surgery Clinic of Cleveland, A Dressy

Affair, Bradley County High School, Cleveland High School, Walker Valley High School and the Cleveland Daily Banner.

“The entire gym is going to be pink,” said Maric. “This game is not just like any other game because so many more fans come out to watch and support us.”

Lee students are already excited about watching and supporting Volley for the Cure.

“I already have my t-shirt, and I’m looking forward to the game,” Lee senior Emily Fox said. “It’s awesome how the players are using their talents and God-given abilities to support such a good cause and raise awareness of that awful disease.”

E-mail Christin at christin.walker@ leeclarion.com.

DZT celebrates 45 years Students and alumni of Delta Zeta Tau will celebrate their 45th anniversary on Saturday, Nov. 7 at 9 a.m. in the Centenary Room.

By NATHAN MCKAY Life Editor A presentation of the highlights of the DZT trip to Philippines will take place, along with a few surprises celebrating the history of DZT heritage, which will focus on the first decade of DZT's legacy, from 1964 to 1973.

In May of this year, the ladies of DZT served in the Philippines at Samaritans Place, a family-style residential care ministry providing shelter, food, and education to children in need.

Marc and Marilen Morris, founders of Samaritans Place in Philippines, will be present at the anniversary event. Marc is a Lee graduate and DZT alumn, and is a member of the DZT alumni association.

"The Delta Zeta Tau Alumni Association was initiated last year, and currently holds 120 members," said Anita Ray, Vice President of DZT Alumni Association. "The association was able to raise $6,000 for the trip

and 14 at 8 p.m. and Nov. 8 and 15 at 2 p.m.

Just remember, as Grandpa always says, "Life's pretty beautiful if you let it come to you."

E-mail Sara at sara.dawson@leeclarion.com.

The Symphonic Band will celebrate with a music festival with in the Conn Center at 7 p.m. on Saturday with Lee Singers, Ladies of Lee, and Campus Choir. Alumni will be playing several selections throughout the festival. Then during the final performance of the night, the Symphonic Band Reunion Band, made up of current members and alumni, will play with Campus Choir, and the Band Vocal Team.

The Celebration will start with an alumni reception at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 6 at North Cleveland Church Of God. The next morning there will be an alumni breakfast at 9 a.m. at the Church of God Headquarters Media Center.

“It will be a great evening of music,” said Dr. Mark Bailey, professor of music and conductor for Symphonic Band.

Philip Bowman, freshman music education major with a insturmental emphasis, said he is looking forward to his first Homecoming experience in the band. He said the band has been working on some of the songs that been played in previous years by Symphonic Band for the celebration.

Symphonic Band began in 1989 when Dr. Paul Conn,

president of Lee University, asked Bailey to consider coming to Lee to work in the Department of Music and developing the band program. After seeing the band play for the first time, he knew they had a long way to go.

Since his arrival on this campus, the music program at Lee has expanded greatly. The current band is made up of 60 gifted musicians.

"It's great to see how much of a family [Smyphonic Band]," Luke Simpson, a freshman instrumental performance major and percussionist in Symphonic Band, said.

Symphonic Band has shared Christ's love through concert tours in several countries, including Botswana, Brazil, Guatemala, The Holy Land, Jordan, Mexico, South Africa and Trinidad. It is the only collegiate band in the United States to have the privilege of performing in Jordan.

Symphonic Band has also performed on television and radio, at many leading churches across the country and at several national conferences and seminars.

Throughout the years and the various performances, Symphonic Band has seen countless hundreds of people accept Christ as their personal savior.

Simpson said he enjoyed seeing how many people have been effected by Symphonic Band.

E-mail Alexandria at alexandria.roy@leeclarion.com or Joyanna at joyanna.weber@ leeclarion.com.

At a Glance: Adding Color

cost and donate $2,500 to the orphanage."

Kayt Phipps, DZT President, said all of the girls were really changed on the trip.

"You always know that there are these people out there and there are things in the world that need to be done but its so different when you are actually there," Phipps said. "I loved it and I wish everyone could experience it."

DZT now plans to visit Samaritans Place every two years; another trip for 2011 is already in the works.

This year, the association has raised funds for a young women's conference in February entitled "Life After Lee" that focuses on work, health, living and success after graduation. The event will be offered free of charge for any Lee female student.

"We want to support all women who are students, not just members of Greek organizations," Ray said.

The cost of the buffet event is $10, and for more information, contact Anita Ray at aray@leeuniversity.edu.

Staff writer Alexandra Roy contributed to Photo courtsey of Office of Public Information this report.

E-mail Nathan at nathan.mckay@leeclar- ARTSY BOOTH: The art club’s booth at the Student Organization Exhibits during Homecoming 2008 added a splash of color to the event. ion.com.

homecoming 5 Homecoming events at a glance

november 6, 2009 | Lee Clarion

History 101: Lee University

In an new effort to attract current students this year to the annual Homecoming festival, the Office of Alumni Relations is coordinating a number of events geared specifically for students.

By Nathan McKay Life Editor

Photo courtsey of Office of Public Information

blast from the past: Lee University’s campus has changed a lot since its conception as a Bible training school in 1918.

In a little over 90 years, a small Bible training school has transformed into what is now known as Lee University.

By ASHLEY GUNTER & LORI JOHNSON Staff Writers In the past few years, Lee has seen tremendous growth, and with this growth the campus has seen many changes.

On Jan. 18, 1918, the Church of God Bible Training School started out on the top floor of a publishing house on Gaunt Street. Out of the 12 students who started the program, only 6 graduated. The students lived in the publishing house or in the house owned by A.J. Tomlinson, the first president.

Louis Morgan, Lee University librarian and alumnus, recalls a family story of the year 1917, when his grandfather sold a cow to raise money for the school.

“Half of the money went to the church and the other half went towards the Bible school.

Back then, selling a cow to raise money was a big deal,” Morgan said.

In the mid 1930s, the school

briefly moved to Sevierville, Tenn., where the current Smoky Mountain Children’s Home is located. In 1947, the campus moved back to Cleveland, Tenn., and the institution, then Bob Jones University, was renamed Lee College, after F.J. Lee, the second general overseer of the Church of God. The dating policy was also quite different than what it is now. There was a dean of women and a dean of men; if one of the men was interested in one of the women on campus, he would send a petition to the dean of women to go a date with the woman.

The dean of women would then go and speak to the female student on behalf of the man, and if she agreed, they would go on a date. It wasn’t uncommon for the dean to accompany them on the date.

Morgan enrolled at Lee College in January 1994, a semester after the fire in Ellis Hall.

“There was a housing shortage that semester, so some of us were moved across town into what was known as the Tomlinson campus,” Morgan said.

When Morgan started school

that spring, the 1,800 students had just been approved to wear shorts on campus.

“The girls dressed modestly and the teachers were strict about the dress code in class.”

Even in 1994, Lee’s campus was still quite small. The campus stretched from the library up to Sharp/Davis, over to Medlin Hall, and down to the Devos Recreation Center, which was only a parking lot.

There was a baseball field where the Center for the Humanities is currently located, and the music building was located in a small building near what is now the Math and Science Complex.

“Lee changed my life and opened up the world to help me see things from a different perspective. I know what Lee did for me and I want to be a part of that for other people,” Morgan said.

Lee College was only a twoyear school, but by 1997, it had finally developed into a fouryear school and began to transition into what is now known as Lee University.

E-mail Ashley at ashley.gunter@leeclarion.com or Lori at lori.johnson@leeclarion.com.

Anita Ray, the Director of Alumni Relations, has been working to plan events which incorporate alumni and student participation. A publication entitled "Homecoming is for students, too" was mailed to all Lee students, listing some of the highlights during Homecoming weekend.

The weekend officially begins on Friday, Nov. 6, with a brand new alumni golf tournament, but for students, the main attractions are Friday night, when a few simultaneous events are sure to draw crowds.

The third annual Volley for the Cure, featuring the Lady Flames volleyball team, will begin at 7 p.m. in the Paul Dana Walker Arena to raise awareness for breast cancer and support the Mary Ellen Locher Foundation in Chattanooga.

At 7:30 p.m., the Symphonic Band will host their 20th anniversary reception in the North Cleveland Church of God Bryant Fellowship Hall. An hour later, Upsilon will host Sadie Hawkins, a one-of-akind bonfire experience at the O'Bannon Farm.

On the other side of campus, the premiere of "You Can't Take It With You" will show at the Dixon Center. This quirky 1930s comedy will keep you guessing and laughing all the way through. The show begins at 8 p.m.

The annual Homecoming 5k

run will start early Saturday morning at 8 a.m., followed by Greek club reunion breakfasts an hour later. Delta Zeta Tau is hosting a special breakfast in the Centenary Room to celebrate their 45th anniversary.

The Homecoming basketball games start at noon. This year, in an effort to boost student attendance, raffle drawings for prizes will be held during the men's halftime.

The Symphonic Band is hosting a 20-year musical legacy Saturday evening at 7 p.m., followed by a dessert mixer in the Paul Conn Student Union.

An hour later, another performance of "You Can't Take It With You" will show, in case you missed the premiere in the midst of the other events.

Homecoming weekend concludes with the Symphonic Band performance Sunday morning at 9 a.m. at Mount Olive Church of God in the , followed by another opportunity to see "You Can't Take It With You" at 2 p.m. in the Dixon Center.

Ray said the focus of planning Homecoming will be to organize events that will attract alumni and students to their organizations or clubs they were involved in.

New to this year is the Gateway Peer Leader Reunion, which is the first step in establishing a trend in organizing specific events, rather than general class reunions.

"Affinity reunions really bring people back for Homecoming. That's where the strongest connections are," Ray said. "If you graduate with a few hundred people, how close can you be with them? We want to broaden our offering of affinity based reunions."

E-mail Nathan at nathan.mckay@leeclarion.com.

Photos courtsey of Office of Public Information

Looking back: The university’s years as Lee College are an integral part of Lee’s history.

For Homecoming news stories, score updates and multimedia throughout the weekend, visit

Photo courtsey of Office of Public Information

remembering 2008: Queen Morgan VanNorman and escort Brandon Heitz received last year’s title.

Homecoming 2009 Schedule Thursday November 5 8 p.m. Flames basketball game, Walker Arena

Friday November 6 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

1-6 p.m.

2 p.m.

5 p.m.

6 p.m.

7 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

8 p.m.

8:30 p.m.

Frontline Preview Day, DeVos Center for the Humanities Homecoming Registration, Paul Conn Student Union lobby Flames Alumni Baseball Game, Olympic Field Athletic Hall of Fame Banquet, Centenary Room Legacy Reunion 1918-1965, Church of God Theological Seminary 1969 Reunion, Decon Jones Dinging Hall, Preisdent’s Dining Room 1979 Reunion, DeVos Recreation Center 1989 Reunion, The Lenoard Center, 2nd floor 1999 Reunion, Mayfield School Annex Gym Lady Flames Volley for a Cure, Walker Arena Symphonic Band 20th Anniversary Reception,North Cleveland COG You Can’t Take It With You, Dixon Center Upsilon’s Sadie Hawkins, O’bannon Farm

Saturday November 7 8 a.m.

9 a.m.

9 a.m.

10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

10 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

12 p.m.

2:15 p.m.

4 p.m.

6 p.m.

7 p.m.

8 p.m.

8 p.m.

LeeClarion.com.

Homecoming 5k Run, Paul Conn Student Union Delta Zeta Tau 45th Anniversary, Centenary Room Pioneers for Christ Alumni Breakfast, School of Religion Lobby Homecoming Registration, Paul Conn Student Union Lobby Student Organization Exhibits, Pedestrian Mall Alumni Softball Game, Bulter Field Lady Flames Homecoming Basketball game, Walker Arena Flames Homecoming Basketball game, Walker Arena DZT vs. Sigma Football game, Jack Souther Field Alumni Rugby game, Jack Souther Field Music Festival, Conn Center You Can’t Take It With You, Dixon Center Omega vs. Epsilon Alumni Softball Games, Jack Souther Field

Sunday November 8 9 a.m. Symphonic Band 20th Anniversary Performance,Mt.Olive Ministries 2 p.m. You Can’t Take It With You, Dixon Center

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life

Lee Clarion | november 6, 2009

Shalom Conference promotes justice

International Student Fellowship hosts multicultural talent show in amphitheater

A panel of students representing Lee's Council of Revolutioary Endeavors (CORE), vocalized concerns about each club’s respective cause during Shalom 2009: Building Communities for Peace and Justice.

By MEGAN JOHNSON Staff Writer

Lee Clarion photos by Shashank Shrestha

celebrate diversity: ISF’s Culture Cafe featured a variety of performances from different cultures.

On Wednesday, Oct. 28, Lee University’s International Student Fellowship (ISF) put on their Culture Café in the amphitheater on campus, featuring performances from cultures around the globe.

By KRISTEN WOHLEBER Staff Writer Coffee and desserts were provided for everyone to enjoy while Lee students represented their cultures through various kinds of performances.

Students were welcome to represent their culture in any way that they chose.

Performances ranged from poetry reading to yodeling, to storytelling and beyond. Some of the acts were prepared

in advance, and others were done openmic style on the spur of the moment.

Graduate student Hannah Schmidt sang a Swiss yodel. Schmidt was born in Switzerland, raised in Japan and has been to over 15 countries in her lifetime.

Christina Mihai, senior and president of ISF, hosted the event.

“This is the third semester we have put this event on,” Mihai said. “However, it is the first time we have teamed up with Beth Thompson and the Global Perspectives Office to make it a part of Global Week.”

In addition to hosting the event, Mihai also read a Romanian poem called “Dancing in the Rain,” first in English, then in its original Romanian.

Josh Parrott, treasurer of ISF, participated by reading a Spanish poem and playing a song on his guitar.

“The best thing about being a part of ISF is being able to meet people from so many other countries and cultures,” Parrott said.

International Student Fellowship meets each Monday night at 9 p.m. in Room 203 of the Walker Memorial building.

This coming Monday will be a special meeting where all the diversity clubs on campus will come together for a meeting.

“I encourage anyone who is interested in ISF to come join us on Monday night and see what we’re all about,” Parrott said.

E-mail Kristen at kristen.wohleber@

The conference was held at the Pentecostal Theological Seminary by the Pentecostals & Charismatics for Peace & Justice organization (PCPJ) on Oct. 23 and Oct. 24. Held annually, the conference aims to bring awareness to issues of injustice both globally and domestically, as well as seek ways to integrate the mission of the church with global concerns.

The opening Friday evening was presented by Jay Beaman.

Beaman spoke on issues comprised in his book "Pentecostal Pacifism", addressing nonviolent revolution and the development of pacifism among Pentecostals.

Saturday’s conference consisted of seven various sessions including "The Unique Suffering of Women" in which Barb Searcy, assistant professor of religion, spoke as a panelist.

The address focused on the injustices of women throughout history and the exploitation many woman face during times of war.

Following this session was speaker Jerry Redman from Second Life Chattanooga. He addressed "A Christian Response to Human Trafficking".

His presentation provided staggering statistics about human trafficking on a domestic level.

Redman stated that the number one place in the United States for sex trade was Atlanta.

Members of the CORE's panel on Saturday included the president of the thee clubs of the council.

President of Invisible Children, Ellie Morse, discussed her involvement with the organization and steps the newly chartered Lee chapter were taking to combat the recruitment of child soldiers to rebel forces in Uganda, Africa.

International Justice Mission (IJM) president Jaynese Thornton’s presentation outlined IJM’s mission to involve casework studies in bringing justice to victims of sexual violence and human trafficking.

Taylor Mobley, president of Acting on AIDS, closed with the club’s plans to raise awareness about the devastating effects the AIDS pandemic has had globally, including rising poverty levels and malnutrition.

“Bringing together what we do and integrating a younger voice gives us energy and encouragement beyond belief,” said Shalom 2009 coordinator Terry Johns.

Ultimately, Shalom 2009 shed awareness on the church’s call to global action and how the individual Christian can best use that knowledge to rally activism and invigorate change throughout the world.

Students who attended all seven Saturday sessions were eligible for a 1 credit hour Anthropology elective.

E-mail Megan at megan.johnson@leeclarion.com.

Activism Column The Caring Place strives to meet the needs of citizens in Bradley County I sat in the waiting room in what appears to be a once 1970s style kitchen and dining room. No longer where families come together to eat, it is now an area where every inch of wall space is taken by chairs. This must be a place where the amount of people supersedes the actual space.

By JULIEA JENKINS Activism Columnist

Contest Wordsearch M G V P L P U L A L U Z E N R

J U W M N M F L L J D C N E F

A D S E V A W A U H S A U E A

N L E I H H B B Y K Y N F L L

ALUMNI BASKETBALL FALL PRODUCTION FREE FOOD GAMES HOMECOMING LEGACY MUSIC FESTIVAL QUEEN REUNIONS SPIRIT WEEK VOLLEYBALL

Celebrity

Buzz

“Coming home to Lee” L Q X N P V K U Z N O O R E U K W L F H E E M L I N S W C E N G A U T Y F Q I M V I H H E Z V W R T E K S A B I H I N P T L P V O A A Q I S I I Z Z W P V S E M A G A S R E E F O O D O G L L I E D L P R O D U C

X A M Q S T L S E N J A Q B T

H O M E C O M I N G Q O L O I

P L R N N Y L E G A C Y F J O

L V B N W S N A T G R W M G N

At last I am warmly greeted by Reba Terry, the executive director of The Caring Place. My first question, what is The Caring Place, is met with a flood of answers. The Caring Place is first off a Christian non-profit organization. Its mission is to model the love of Christ by addressing basic spiritual, physical, and social needs of people in Bradley County, Tenn.

The need is great. Over 15,000 residents in Bradley County are at risk of hunger; in other words, they fall within the poverty guidelines as established by the federal government. The Caring Place has served more than 3,000 families over 268,000 pounds of food in the last year.

"Everyone is valuable regardless of their station in life. We do the best to preserve the dignity of the people we serve. We want people

to leave knowing God has not forgotten about them, and we work really hard at this.”

The Caring Place is always looking for volunteers with a heart for the hurting.

“Volunteers play all kinds of roles depending on their gifts, and whether it is putting together newsletters, working in the food warehouse, sorting clothes, cleaning, or raking leaves it is meeting needs,” Terry said.

During the next few months, The Caring Place is expected to receive a record breaking cry for help.

“We have to take care of those less fortunate, and that crosses all barriers," Terry said. "The Caring Place is about more than just providing food and clothing. It’s about serving the most fragile people groups."

If you are interested in helping The Caring Place fight poverty and share hope, they can be reached at (423) 472-4414 or through their Web site at http://www.thecaringplaceonline.org.

As I stood to leave I noticed a painting hanging on the wall that says “I will hold your people in my heart.” This image sums up the message at The Caring Place.

E-mail Juliea at juliea.jenkins@leeclarion. com.

At a Glance: Battle of the Bands

How to Win Return your completed wordsearch to LeeClarion’s office (PCSU 104) with your name and phone number to be entered in a $10 Wal-Mart gift card raffle. All entries must be received by Nov.11. Only one entry allowed per person. The winner will be notified by phone or e-mail.

Name: _________________________ Phone: ________________________ Mark Ndesandjo, the half brother of President Obama, has traditionally refused all interview requests, until now, when he recently emerged with his own slightly modified autobiographic novel. Don’t worry, the novel is only slightly modified; it doesn’t reveal the President’s illegitimate citizenship.

Sarah Palin is going on tour soon across the U.S. to showcase her new book, “Going Rogue.”

Unfortunately, no one cares.

Lee Clarion photo by Isabelle Slick

music mania: Lee partnered with Lifecare Centers of America on Oct. 22 for the first Battle of the Bands. For results and more information, visit LeeClarion.com. Yahoo! News recently posted an article claiming that Miley Cyrus was voted the worst celebrity influence of 2009, according to a poll

by AOL. Unfortunately, Yahoo! seemed confused as to why Cyrus was voted in front of Kayne West and Britney Spears. We are too. But to be fair, she was accused of pole dancing.

 Rihanna was very disappointed when the media began invading her life in the aftermath of the Chris Brown drama. “I felt like I went to sleep as Rihanna and woke up as Britney Spears. I felt like people were making it into a fun topic on the Internet, and it’s my life,” she said. Bad news Rihanna: welcome to the celebrity life.

A new reality TV show headed by the production company owned by Ryan Seacrest and E! gives ordinary people the opportunity to beg for money from celebs. That’s possibly the most retarded idea for a reality show.

It wasn’t even original; the show, like many successful American TV shows like “American Idol” and “The Office,” is based from the ideas of British television.

opinions 7 my two

november 6, 2009 | Lee Clarion

Lee Clarion

Cents

Editorial Board MICHELLE BOLLMAN • JOYANNA WEBER NATHAN MCKAY • SARALYN NORKUS • SARA DAWSON BEECHER REUNING • BRADY CALLAHAN

In less than 30 words, give us your thoughts

Americans still prove gullible to mass media hype If you somehow haven’t heard of the now infamous Balloon Boy on television, you will shortly.

In a nutshell, parents of six-year-old Falcon Heene of Colorado were horrified when they believed their son had escaped into a homemade hot air balloon.

Unfortunately, the boy was found hiding in his parents’ garage. The New York Post estimated the total cost of the rescue attempt at $2 million, which included helicopter transports and support from the National Guard.

But no one suspected anything unusual until the boy was asked on “Larry King Live” why he didn’t answer his parents’ shouts for help.

“You guys said that, um, we did this for the show,” Falcon answered.

The boy was referring to the parents’ reality show, which was in the works to get aired on TV. No one had thought about the fact that the parents had been featured on the TV show “Wife Swap” twice or that they were intentionally doing this for media attention.

Obviously, the stunt was engineered as a desperate attempt to gain media exposure.

Felony charges will most likely be filed; but regardless of the outcome, it seems Americans are still prone to the occasional hoax.

Americans need to learn to see past the hype and look to the facts. Otherwise we as a country will be doomed to life under a veil of deception.

“For the sake of our future and the future of our children, 2010 and 2012 cannot come fast enough.”

Legislators ignore historical advice, plunge deeper into debt

"As a very important source of strength and security, cherish public credit. One method of preserving it is to use it as sparingly as possible, avoiding occasions of expense by cultivating peace, but remembering also that timely disbursements to prepare for danger frequently prevent much greater disbursements to repel it, avoiding likewise the accumulation of debt, not only by shunning occasions of expense, but by vigorous In past semesters, students at Lee have complained about exertion in time of peace to discharge the debts which unavoidable wars may have ocparking, dining hall food and Clean Access Agent.

Earlier this semester, Clean Access was eliminated from casioned, not ungenerously throwing upon that list. Yet, students have found other things to add to the posterity the burden which we ourselves ought to bear." list.

Some of these new complaints have been about the drasBy MICAH GIBSON tic changes in technology at Lee: everything from e-mail to Conservative Columnist Portico.

However instead of embracing these changes and trying to see the advantages of them, many students are quick to This is a very small selection from George point out the problems that the new systems have brought. Washington's farewell address to the naStudents now complain about slower internet connections tion at the close of his second term. As you were reading, I hope you contrasted our first and difficulty using new setups.

When was the last time you went a day without complain- president's opinion on national debt with the actions of most politicians over the last ing?

A simple question, yet for numerous people it is a rare oc- several decades. currence. Students still complain about getting tickets and Washington apparently thought the only legitimate reason to go into debt was for the about the food in the dining hall.

Students complain about how much it rains in Cleveland preparation of national defense, while most of today’s politicians behave as if debt is an and when their plans get rearranged.

This list of things to gripe about goes on and on. Since we understood situation of government and that are constantly surrounded by technology, there is the con- deepening it is of no concern.

I love the specific portion of the quote that stant complaint about technology not working. says, "but by vigorous exertion in time of However, does complaining really do a student any good? peace to discharge the debts which unavoidMany times legitimate complaints can bring up concerns able wars may have occasioned, not ungenthat need to be addressed, but mindless complaining leads erously throwing upon posterity the burden to a grumbling attitude which can sour an otherwise good which we ourselves ought to bear." day.

Politicians in Washington today on both Basically, it really all does come back to attitude. sides of the aisle seem to have little concern Every student has a choice whether to complain about about the eventually disastrous situation changes and when things do not go their way or to embrace they are creating as they continue to spend new plans and systems and policies trying to be content money they do not have.

As of their Auwith them.

Choose a positive attitude

Wanted: a slice of your thoughts Letters to the editor should be sent to inbox@leeclarion.com. Letters should be fewer than 400 words and must include ea full name, e-mail address and telephone number The e-mail address and phone number will be used to verify the author’s identity and will not be published. We do not publish anonymous letters or letters written using pseudonyms. The Lee Clarion reserves the right to edit for length, but not for content, as well as the right to refrain from publishing letters. Letters and other opinions in the Lee Clarion reflect the views of their respective authors and will not be retracted. Opinions published in the Lee Clarion may not necessarily reflect the views of the Lee Clarion, Lee University or the Church of God. The Lee Clarion prefers to receive submissions via e-mail as an attachment in either Rich Text Format or as a Microsoft Word Document.

Brooks Hungate

gust report on the deficit, the Congressional Budget Office projected the 2009 deficit at over $1.5 trillion and the 2010 deficit is projected for just over $1.3 trillion.

This lack of fiscal responsibility is not limited to the Obama administration nor to Democrats as Republicans have also done their part to contribute to America’s current national debt of nearly $12 trillion.

This behavior is both confusing and irritating. The individuals we have trusted to make responsible decisions for our nation have driven us into incomprehensible debt as if the lenders will never come to collect.

What is even more unbelievable is that many of these people still have jobs in government, and these same individuals seek to plunge us further into a seemingly inescapable pit of debt.

Despite our current situation due to previous mismanagement, irresponsibility and government expansion, President Obama and our current Congress want to add hundreds of billions of dollars to our government’s financial commitments with universal health care, as well as cap and trade legislation.

The Congressional Budget Office estimates that cap and trade legislation as currently proposed would cost over $800 billion between 2010 and 2019. This figure combined with the $900 billion projected from Congress to pay for universal healthcare would bring the cost for these two pieces of legislation alone to over $1.7 trillion.

Those serving in our government have shown either complete ignorance of or disregard for financial responsibility; and for the sake of our future and the future of our children, 2010 and 2012 cannot come fast enough.

E-mail Micah at micah.gibson@leeclarion.com.

Izumi Dateyama

Sarah Baker

Rocco Chiara

Jennifer Bennet

“The big question...must be, ‘Is the president’s plan working?’”

Job market still bleak as economy rises

In a decade of economic turbulence with job growth staggeringly low, many Americans have become frustrated with the perpetual cycle of fiscal decline.

By JUSTIN WALLACE Moderate Columnist Even though the economy grew roughly four percent last quarter, Americans regretfully note that job losses are still prevalent.

Over the past year, unemployment grew to 9.5 percent. The substantially low influx in jobs over the past year comes as no surprise to many economists, primarily

because the job market typically correlates the least to other economic factors, like stock market trends.

Typically, the job market improves slower than any other economic variable.

While we may see a readily-available improvement in economic conditions, jobs will trend less readily.

Understanding this relationship between the job market and other economic variables is important. What most Americans don’t realize is that while the job market remains stagnant, the economy is improving steadily.

The big question from Americans everywhere must be, “Is the president’s plan

working?” For many Americans, the answer is no.

While the Obama Administration feels confident enough to say the recession is virtually over, middle class Americans continue to face the challenges of a troubled economy.

Regardless, America’s fiscal situation does seem to be improving, however slowly, whether or not this improvement is a result of the administration’s stimulus package and its attempts to encourage small businesses and middle class Americans to reinvest in the economy.

E-mail Justin at justin.wallace@leeclarion.com.

“Give up the lies, give away the clothes, give away the stuff and clutter, desist from the language of the world and hold fast to God’s language: forgiveness.”

Take up the challenge to shine by living a holy life in Christ Second Peter 2:9 says, “But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people; that you should show forth the praises of him who has called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.”

By AKOLADE OSHINUSI Ethics Columnist This scripture has always been and will forever be one of my favorite scriptures. It is a verse, I believe, that summarizes the love story between God and humans. It is a verse that holds the very roots of the redemption story. And it is also a verse that is easier said than done.

We have been called to a life of sanctity, a life of purity, a life of love and a life worthy of emulation. We are Christians, pace-setters and rebellious to the world.

We have been chosen by God himself to bear His mark and to show forth His excel-

lence, but why do we usually end up hiding the light that the Lord has given us? Why do we end up living a life of conformity? Why do we conform to the ways of the world?

I believe the answer is very simple. We live in a materialistic world, we are constantly surrounded by fake people whose selfish desires know no limits. I dare say that we constantly find ourselves in the rat race dominated by individualistic and self-gratifying people.

But more importantly, we live in a world whose standards are set in a sinful nature, one that favors achievements and individuals rather than a holistic approach. A world that is owned by the devil himself.

The very nature of sin is delicious. Like freshly baked cookies, it lures you and sets a trap so irresistible that you will willingly fall into it. It appeals to the very core of our flesh, and because most of the world does not resist their flesh like we are called to, it becomes easier to justify our sin.

Many of us have high aspirations in life.

Some of these goals were set by us, and some by our parents. Some of them were influenced by friends, while some were influenced by family; some were even influenced by God through men of His. Some want to become mighty men of God, evangelists, successful business people and world leaders, while others simply want to go wherever the wind blows them.

We must look to Christ in all things, because even if we achieve all our heart’s desires, if He is not the focal point of our lives, it will all be worthless. We are expected to crucify our flesh, fast the things that are keeping us away from God, fast the “gods” in your life.

Give up the lies, give away the clothes, give away the stuff and clutter, desist from the language of the world and hold fast to God’s language: forgiveness.

Our God is a jealous God, and He only uses people who long for Him, and SHOW

Him that they long for Him. It’s not by the words of the mouth, but by actions. Do not be fooled; God is not mocked.

He knows the desires of your heart, but if you are not willing to show publicly these godly affections, then they are worthless. No wonder Paul says, “Let us not only be hearers, but also doers of the word.”

You should not need to tell people you are a Christian, they should be able to recognize it in you. If you live a life where the people around you are not positively influenced by your faith in Christ, then you need to buck up and identify the problems.

We are a holy nation, a peculiar people, a people called out of the darkness of this world into the light and purity of God. Stand up today for your faith.

E-mail Akolade at akolade.oshinus@leeclarion.com.

8

Sports

Lee Clarion | november 6, 2009

Lee basketball player becomes Internet star Larrques Cunningham was just “doing his thing” when he impressed an audience of Lee University onlookers with his unbelievable slam dunking abilities at the Alumni TipOff event on Friday, Oct. 16.

By CHRISTIN WALKER Staff Writer

Lee Clarion photo by Jennifer James

slam dunk wonder: Larrques Cunningham scores during the season opener against Tennessee Temple.

Little did he know that the videos of his performance in the slam dunk contest at Lee would circulate around the world.

Cunningham, a 6-foot-5-inch transfer from Roane State Community College, slammed the ball through the hoop after flying through the air from the free-throw line. He also made it look easy when he jumped over two people and slam dunked again.

“My senior year [in high school] was the first time that I ever jumped from the free throw line and started jumping over people,” Cunningham said. “I started getting good at it my freshman year in college.”

“Good” might be an understatement when your video is named “Sports Video of the Day” on SportsIllustrated.com.

Jeff Slayer, producer of Inside Lee Basketball, recorded the dunks and sent the videos to several media outlets. Cunningham’s dunks were also uploaded to other Web sites including Youtube, dimemag.com and collegefanz.com, with page views currently pushing 200,000.

“It feels pretty good to get attention, but I didn’t think it would get this much attention,” Cunningham said.

Cunningham’s teammates on the Lee University men’s basketball team were as dumbfounded as the rest of the crowd after witnessing his astonishing performance.

“I’ve never seen anything like it before,” teammate Stephen McClellan said. “I didn’t even know what to do except stand there in awe. He doesn’t even make a big deal about it either.

He just stands there and has the look of, ‘That’s just who I am and what I

do, no big deal.’ Well, that was one of the best dunks I’ve ever seen.”

The buzz around campus reflects a renewed pride in the school and excitement about what is to come of Lee University’s introduction into the worldwide basketball scene.

“For Lee it’s a huge deal,” Lee senior John D. Moore said. “You usually don’t see that here at Lee and for someone to represent us like that is awesome.”

Fans can look forward to more excitement during this upcoming basketball season from Cunningham and the rest of the men’s basketball team.

“I’ve been coaching 18 years in college, and that is probably the best dunk I’ve seen outside of a game,” said Marty Rowe, Lee women’s basketball coach. “He’s a great guy, and he’s going to be a lot of fun to watch this season.”

E-mail Christin at christin.walker@leeclarion.com.

Goals Continued from page 1 Some of the toughest opponents Lee will be facing this year include Mountain State University (W.Va.), Auburn University-Montgomery (Ala.), Southern Polytechnic State University (Ga.) and Emmanuel College (Ga.).

There are several players to keep an eye on this season, including senior forward Josh Nofflet, last year's SSAC Tournament MVP, who will be making plays on both ends of the court with his extreme versatility.

Senior forward Chad James is a crucial post defender and a leader on and off the court.

Sophomore pointguard Tyler Cutter will also be key in controlling the pace

of the game and managing the offensive end of the court.

Other notable players to watch include Larriques Cunningham, Matt Stilwell, Hardy and Blocker.

The buzz about Lee basketball has changed with Cunningham's recent slam dunking display. Expect to see more fans in the stands this season, watching and waiting for some big plays from Cunningham and the rest of the Flames.

MCT photo by Chuck Myers “Our team as a whole World cup hopefuls: Members of the USA Men’s National Team (left to right) Carlos Bocanegra, Brian has become stronger and Ching, Sacha Kljestan, Michael Bradley and Landon Donovan take the field prior to warm ups during a 2009 smarter over the off-seaWorld Cup qualifying match. son," said Blocker. "We’re ready to do this, one game at a time.”

E-mail Christin at chris- It has been almost four years now since Italy claimed victory qualifying structure. Come June, the lineup will consist of t i n . w a l k e r @ l e e c l a r i o n . in the 2006 World Cup in Germany. Now, just a mere nine five African nations, 13 European nations, four teams from com. months away from the 19th World Cup, the stage is being set South Africa and Asia and three teams from the Concacaf in preparation for the quadrennial international football world conference. championship tournament.

In addition, there will also be two second chance bids awarded to the winner of an Oceania/Asia playoff and the winner of

By BLAKE JOINER a Concacaf/South America playoff.

Staff Writer This year’s world cup will mark the first time that the prestigious tournament has been hosted by an African nation. South South Africa will play host to the 2010 World Cup, receiving Africa beat out competitive bids from Morocco and Egypt for an automatic bid. They will welcome 31 international teams hosting rights. from across the globe to compete for soccer’s most coveted South Africa will use ten different city venues to play the price, football world champion. opening rounds of the tournament. The largest of these, loOf the 32 teams scheduled to compete next June, 23 of them cated in Johannesburg, seats 89,000 and the smallest of these, have already punched their ticket to South Africa through re- located in Rustenburg, seats 42,000. gional qualifying that began in August of 2007. These teams Tournament group and matches orders will be revealed in a include the likes of host county South Africa, defending Dec. 4 draw in the coastal city of Cape Town, South Africa. champion Italy, soccer powerhouse and world number one Qualifying for the remaining nine spots will continue Brazil, local favorite United States and relative unknown, through the end of the year with the tournament beginning Lee Clarion photo by Jennifer James team meeting: The Flames huddle together for a Ivory Coast.

June 11, 2010. meeting during the game against Tennessee Temple.

The breakdown of 32 teams is the result of a pre-arranged E-mail Blake at blake.joiner@leelcarion.com.

2010 World Cup qualifying heats up

Postseason baseball calls attention to “human element” With a post season plagued by blown calls, baseball officiating crews are quickly coming under fire in the month of October. The most recent of these officiating debacles came in the late innings of Thursday’s World Series game two between the Philadelphia Phillies and the New York Yankees.

By BLAKE JOINER Staff Writer In the seventh inning, Johnny Damon hit a line drive to Phillies first basemen Ron Howard. First base umpire Brian Gorman indicated that a catch was made resulting in an out and an eventual double play. Yankees manager Joe Girardi quickly protested the call to no avail.

“The objective is to get it right,” crew chief Jerry Davis said to the New York Post. “We asked each other what we had seen and the replay confirmed we got it right.”

The second of these elatedly missed calls came in the eighth inning with runners on first and second. Chase Utley was called out in an inning ending double play in which neither he nor first base coach Davey Lopes protested. Instant replay showed however that Utley was indeed safe.

“It was one of those close plays,” Utley said.

“I guess it could have gone either way. I haven’t seen the replay. If you say I was safe, then I guess I was safe.”

Sports

briefs

Missed calls, and both team and public scrutiny begs the question, is there a need for instant replay in a Major League Baseball, or have teams and fans just become too critical of the human element?

Baseball Commissioner Bud Selig has always been a staunch opponent to the introduction of instant replay in MLB. He has always been quoted as “being a fan of the human element.”

Thursday’s game two however saw glimpses of a potential aspect of baseball instant replay.

Commissioner Selig announced Tuesday that “Major League Baseball will institute the use of instant replay on Thursday to dispute home run calls – fair or foul, in or out of the part, fan interference .”

For now however, this will be the extent of instant replay for the 2009 season. In an effort to diminish the occurrence of postseason umpiring blips, MLB has decided to go with an entirely veteran World Series umpiring crew. Traditionally, World Series umpiring crews have consisted of at least one World Series rookie to provide experience and reward the newer umpires. Since 1983, every World Series, with exception of the 1997 World Series, has kept true to this tradition.

Thus far however, the veteran crew has not provided the solution that MLB was hoping for; MCT/Philadelphia Inquirer photo by Ron Cortes potentially this will be an argument for the implestrike one: Philadelphia Phillies picther Joe Blanton and both benches are warned mentation of instant replay in years to come. by the umpires after New York Yankees Alex Rodriguez was hit by a pitch in the first E-mail Blake at blake.joiner@leeclarion.com. inning during Game 4 of the 2009 World Series.

 Coach Andrea Hudson’s Lee University Lady Flames completed an undefeated run through the Southern States Athletic Conference regularseason schedule this week.

Hutchison, a 5-foot-8 outside hitter for the Lady Flames, was named the SSAC Player of the Week on Monday, becoming the third Lady Flame to earn the award this season.

 Senior Night may still be several days away, but the Lady Flames’ seniors dominated the match on Tuesday night.

The Lady Flames (14-2, 8-0) claimed a 6-0 win over Brenau University (9-6-2, 4-3-1) at the Lee Soccer Field on Tuesday night, and all six goals were tallied by seniors.

 Three summers ago a young player named Johnny McLawhorn was enrolled at Lee, according to Lee men’s basketball coach Tommy Brown. For unknown reasons things didn’t work out for the athlete. You might say he returned to haunt the Flames on Monday evening in Walker Arena.

Shorter College’s Sebastian Stihler hammered home a penalty kick in the 24th minute and that turned out to be all the Hawks needed in posting a 3-0 victory over the home-standing and struggling Lee Flames on Tuesday afternoon.

 Lee University women’s basketball coach Marty Rowe continued his roundup of top area players this week. Rowe visited McMinn Central High School and signed senior guard Madison Lee. Lee has been a member of McMinn Central teams that have posted a 92-12 record over the past three seasons and has never lost a district or region playoff game.

sports

november 6, 2009 | Lee Clarion

In The Cage Stories by SARALYN NORKUS AND RICHARD YEAKLEY Photos courtsey of Team Truth Media Layout by MICHELLE BOLLMAN

In The Cage is a four part series of articles about Cleveland’s amateur mixed martial arts group, Team Truth. The complete series of the articles featured on this page can be found in their entirety at LeeClarion.com.

Fighting for a higher power Fourteen months ago, a small white building on the outskirts of Cleveland made the transition from being an old, well-worn place of worship to becoming the training grounds for a fledgling Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) group.

This building, located on the corner of Benton Pike and Old Parksville, had previously been known as the Victory

sparring practice: Derrick Hubbard and Vance Hively training in the cage.

Prayer House, but as of August 2008, it has been referred to as “The Cell.”

The Cell is home to the amateur MMA group known as Team Truth, which was started by fighter Tyler “The Truth” Bramlett.

Read the full version of this article online at LeeClarion.com.

ready for the fight: Jesse Grissom tapes Tyler Bramlett’s hands before his fight in Clarksville, Tenn.

The WhirlwinD experience

Psyched up: Jesse Grissom before his 13 second knockout.

giving thanks: Jesse Grissom after winning a title belt in Cleveland, Tenn.

Training with Team Truth was perhaps the most physically demanding experience in my short life. The pain, as my body attempted to find the strength to perform incredible feats, was small when compared to the aches I continue to feel from my endeavor.

Arriving at the The Cell, the location where the team practices, filled me with

suspense and fear.

For the next two hours I was to be the practice dummy for an amateur Mixed Martial Arts practitioner. My body was to be twisted, locked and hurled as the athlete demonstrated the trademark moves of his art.

Read the full version of this article at LeeClarion.com.

Proven Domination The sounds of Queen’s “We are The Champions” echoed throughout the Cleveland National Guard Armory late Saturday night, Oct. 24. Indeed, the song was a fitting end to the action packed night, as the three victorious Team Truth fighters proudly displayed their newly won championship belts.

By the time most people have reached the age of 21 they are well on their way to pursuing their dreams; in this respect Lucas DaSilva is no different than any other 21-year-old.

At one point, the athletic-minded DaSilva was a student at Bryan College majoring first in exercise science, then changing to business.

DaSilva also became a part of the men’s soccer team.

“I played soccer all my life and was able to walk onto the men’s soccer team at Bryan,” DaSilva said.

Due to the cost of tuition, DaSilva was only able to attend school for a year. Currently, he is in the process of finishing his degree online to become a personal trainer.

In May 2009, DaSilva tagged along with his best friend, Derrick Hubbard, to a training session at The Cell and has been a part of Team Truth ever since.

“I started training on May 7…and

have only missed one day of practice, and that was to get my blood tested for a fight,” DaSilva said. “I liked the sport, but wasn’t attracted to it until the first day of training.

I’m Brazilian, so it’s in my blood.”

DaSilva participated and won his first fight two and a half months after he had begun training at The Cell.

After his first fight, DaSilva learned the importance of preparation.

“Train as if your opponent is better than you and is training harder than you,” DaSilva said.

Team Truth and MMA have given DaSilva a plan and purpose for his life.

“Everything happens the way it does for a reason. I really didn’t know what I wanted to do with myself,” DaSilva said. “It was God’s plan for me to come here.”

For DaSilva, going pro by May 7, 2010, is his next goal, although he recognizes that there are still many things to continue working on.

“Once you go pro, you can’t go back. Your amateur record is erased.

I want to train more and know what I’m doing,” DaSilva said. “I want to make a full time living as a fighter.

I never thought it could happen, but now it’s obtainable.”

On Oct. 24, DaSilva extended

his record to 3-0 when he defeated Christopher Brewer via a tap out in the first round and became the featherweight champion.

“No matter what I did or I got to do, I always go that extra mile; sometimes literally.”

Fellow Team Truth member Casey Kerr has been training in MMA for two years. According to Kerr, the first year and a half was just to get in shape.

The 29-year-old participated in his first fight three months ago and has been undefeated ever since.

“I got into it [MMA], and then fell in love with it,” Kerr said. “You ask yourself, ‘Why didn’t you start this sooner?’”

While devoted to the sport, Kerr is also a dedicated father, husband and member at Way of the Cross Baptist Church.

“People think it’s a big oxymoron, Christians and fighting. This isn’t fighting, it’s a sport,” Kerr said.

Kerr is blessed with not only the support of Team Truth, but with the support of his family.

“My wife is very supportive, while my mom prays for me not to get fights,” Kerr said.

Kerr’s father was in attendance for his first fight, where he won in 28 sec-

victory for truth: Tyler Bramlett, founder and coach of Team Truth, after winning a fight in Clarksville, Tenn.

onds with a rear naked choke.

“What do you say when you kid tells you he’s fighting? ‘Good luck.’ It’s good if he wins,” Ray Kerr, the fighter’s father, said. “Casey used to wrestle in high school so I’m used to it.”

It is Kerr’s wrestling background that makes him comfortable with the grappling and ground and pound style of MMA. “I like anything that goes to the ground,” Kerr said. “I’ve been wrestling all my life.”

Nerves can affect absolutely everyone, and Kerr is no exception. It isn’t until the start of the fight that Kerr overcomes the nervousness.

“I hate the nerves before the fight.

I ask myself, ‘Why am I even doing this’ up until the bell rings,” Kerr said.

By Jan. 1, 2010, Kerr hopes to leave the amateur MMA ranks for that of the pros.

“You’ve got to have heart. You have to know this is what you want to do,” Kerr said. “When you step in there it’s real.”

Kerr fought Lee Burns for the Lightweight title, which he won after landing a Superman punch on his opponent and continued his assault on the ground until the referee declared him the winner via a technical knockout (T.K.O) in the first round.

His record is now 3-0.

“I was so nervous. I had so many people here watching, I just wanted to go out and perform,” Kerr said after winning. “I’m ecstatic, through the roof. I’m ready to go again actually.”

Kerr’s father, who was in attendance at the championship fight, had emotions that matched those of his son’s.

“Like father, like son,” joked Ray Kerr.

Twenty-nine year old Jesse Grissom has been training for seven months and started out his amateur MMA career as an independent fighter.

Grissom won his first fight, and then after some more independent training became a member of Team Truth.

“The team has provided me with friendship, trust and a lot of support,” Grissom said. “I smoked for 16 years, and these guys stood behind and supported me [on quit-

ting].”

Grissom was the influencing factor in convincing his friends Kevin and Regina Whiteside to begin training with Team Truth.

“Find someone to train with you and to help you out,” Grissom said.

Grissom is a skilled striker and is also comfortable taking the fight to the ground.

“Anyone I can get on the ground, its ground and pound,” Grissom said.

After the Oct. 24 fight, Grissom became the Welterweight champion and extended his record to 4-0 by defeating his opponent Jason Muincy via a ground and pound T.K.O. in the first round.

Grissom’s win was the final title win, which brought Team Truth’s record to 41-9-1. Not only does Team Truth have an impeccable record, but they now possess three title belts.

“It’s amazing,” said Jesus Trujillo, Team Truth coach and tapeman.

“I’m fired up.”

As the team celebrated the hardfought and epic wins in the Extreme Fighting Champions cage, a microphone was passed amongst the group. One common idea emerged: gratitude that each fighter had towards Team Truth coach and manager Tyler Bramlett.

“I know how hard these boys train.

This was their reward,” Bramlett said.

Lee University senior Stacy Cohl was in attendance that night, which was her first experience with a MMA event.

“I screamed my head off. It was exhilarating,” Cohl said. “I am definitely coming out to the fights again.”

Bramlett took as much joy in his fighter’s wins as they did.

“It feels awesome. Our hard work finally paid off. We proved that we are the dominant MMA group in Cleveland,” Bramlett said.

The hard work just got harder for Team Truth, though, as the titlehungry team looks to retain and gain championships. The team is scheduled to compete in Smyrna Tenn. the first weekend of Dec., where Grissom will be fighting for another title win.

9

sports Lee Clarion | november 6, 2009 F i t n e s s Lady Flames fired up to play basketball C o a c h ’s 10

fix Run!

I have been getting back into my regular routine of running lately and felt a deep urge to share some essential must knows for the sport.

By ISABELLE SLICK Fitness Columnist * Know your terrain. If you’re in the beginning stages of running, don’t go run on a route that has massive, steep hills.

Keyword: pace. Start off on flat ground and then you can work your way up to sprinting mounds.

Take advantage of the spectacular Greenway of Cleveland; it’s an easy run and not too far. * Think before you drink.

It is good to hydrate yourself before hitting the concrete, but don’t drink too much. If you do, you’ll literally feel the liquid squish and jiggle around in your belly, and you will hate it, no lie. My suggestions would be to drink some water consistently throughout the day. About 30 minutes before your run, drink a glass to refrain from dry mouth or shortness of breath. * Buddy system. Whether it be a roommate or Buddy the Elf, running with someone is so very helpful. It is good to find someone who is at about the same pace as you are, but can still give you the challenge you need to build up some endurance. I’ll be honest, I never used to run with a buddy, but within the past year I have started. I love it. I’m not really a talker when I run, so I always warn my buddy beforehand, but it is very helpful and not as boring. * We’re Jammin’. According to Bob Marley, we should be jammin’, so why not jam out to some awesome tunes that will motivate you and pump you up on your run. I’m amazed at how much faster I run when I turn on my techno beats. What gets you pumped? Whatever it is, add it to the playlist! * Footsies. You must take care of your feet and treat them well when you start to run, because if you don’t, they will not like you. Buy yourself a pair of great running shoes that accommodate to your foot’s shape, whether it’d be flat or arched.

A good pair of running kicks is a must have. Fast Break Athletics in Chattanooga is a store that specializes in running footwear, so check it out!

That’s all I have for you this week. Be safe. Be merry. Be pumped. Be a runner!

E-mail Isabelle at isabelle. slick@leeclarion.com.

Excitement blazes in Coach Marty Rowe’s eyes as he talks about the upcoming season for his Lady Flames basketball team.

By CHRISTIN WALKER Staff Writer Coming out of a successful 2008-2009 season, the team is returning an entire starting line-up under strong senior leadership.

“I’m excited to see what players like Brooke McKinnon and Katie Nelson have to offer the team this year,” Rowe said. “But I believe our key player will be Alli-

son Rader. She’s the person who gets us playing a certain way, and she’s the best point guard in the league.

Her staying healthy and being at full speed the entire year is probably the biggest key for us.”

The Lady Flames scrimmaged Campbellsville (Ky.) on Friday, Oct. 30, and gained some game time experience before their season begins on Homecoming weekend. The team is still trying to work out all the kinks and shake off the rustiness of the off-season, but the same chemistry that carried them to the nation-

al tournament last year is clearly present.

“A u bu r n - M o n t g o m e r y will pose the biggest challenge this season,” Rowe said. “They have everyone coming back from last year, and they’re making a step toward trying to really push us at the top of the league.”

The Lady Flames welcomed a high-quality recruiting class this season, including double-threat Kayla Carlisle.

“While Kayla is finishing up the volleyball season, she’s doing individual work with us on a weekly basis,” Rowe said. “We’ll mix her

in as quick as we can when she transitions from volleyball to basketball.”

With an exciting season ahead of them, the Lady Flames are hoping to pick up where they left off last year.

“Expectations are high on the outside and people are expecting us to do well,” Rowe said. “But more than that we have high expectations for ourselves. We have a lot of work to do, but we’re hoping for a successful season.”

E-mail Christin at christin. walker@leeclarion.com.

Spooky holiday sparks bizarre rituals Student athletes share traditions and superstitions that encourage them on and off the field.

With the advent of the Hal- tradition. loween season, superstitions For the past two to three and pre-game rituals become years freshman cross couna major focus for athletes. try runner Andrew Darwin has worn his favorite WheatBy ZACH SOUTHARD ies socks the day before each Staff Writer race and a different pair of socks the day of the race.

Athletes are known for do- Darwin however deems it is ing the wackiest of rituals best for athletes to avoid any for success at any cost that superstitions in case somebreeds the old cliché, “if it’s thing was to go wrong. not broken, then it doesn’t “Everyone on the team is need to be fixed,” but if suc- against them,” said Darwin. cess is the ultimate outcome, “It’s all mental and you don’t the superstition may be val- want it to affect the way you ued by the individual or team perform.” that much more.

Others view the spirituality Basketball legend Michael of athletic superstition in a Jordan always wore his Uni- contrary approach. versity of North Carolina Senior lock Ward Jones shorts underneath his Chica- aptly credits the pre-game go Bulls shorts, and inevita- rugby tradition to a differbly led his team to six NBA ent spiritual aspect than that titles during his career. of hexes and hoodoo. Jones Baseball fans have always firmly believes that the been subject to some batty power of prayer before each routines. Whether it’s the game is what helps the team fans putting on their accus- perform to their highest postomed rally cap in the 9th sible level of play, but says inning trying to guide their that prayer by no means is team back or seeing their associated with any superstifavorite players avoid jinxes tion. with such rituals as bypass- “Superstitions are more ining the chalk lines on the dividual based,” said Jones, base paths while heading “Whereas traditions can be back to the dugout. seen as more team based.”

Pitchers may acquire the Jones was quick to state greatest amount of supersti- that the rugby chant before tion during a game however each match is a valued estabespecially when taking a lishment the team can never perfect game or no hitter late play without. into the game as teammates However, sophomore wreswill usually avoid contact at tler Chris Jones views the all cost for fear they might power of superstitions as a hex their pitchers mojo. crutch that athletes to depend Athletes at Lee University on to give them a relaxing, also have their beliefs about comforting and reliable feelthe power of superstition and ing. Mental focus, he says, is

At a Glance: Soccer vs. Shorter

Coach Marty Rowe is the head coach of the Lee University women’s basketball team.

Q) What do you like most about coaching?

A) I love sports and I love to compete. I think that’s what got me into coaching and that’s what keeps me going.

Also, I love the relationships that go with sports; building relationships with my coaches and players is so rewarding.

Q) What do you tell your players to motivate them… on the court and off?

A) I try to keep them as grounded as possible. We try to use basketball to teach life lessons and help our players develop habits that will last them a lifetime.

Q) What do you like to do when you’re not coaching?

A) I try to play as much Lee Clarion photo by Jennifer James golf as possible; my wife is a running on tradition: Freshman Andrew Davis good player so we’re able to wears his Wheaties socks the day before each meet. spend a lot of time together.

Other than that I just like to definitely what athletes need event that helps get them in relax and hang out with our the right mindset of where friends. to depend on.

“The best thing you can do they should be mentally, and is train hard,” said Jones. “ presenting the idea that the Q) Who is your hero?

You can leave your lucky non superstitious are very A) My daughter Brittany! socks at home, but you can’t few and far between.

She’s the best thing that’s In a realm of pure competi- ever happened to me and leave your talent and skill.”

Junior men’s golfer Brad tion, athletes will generally she’s helped me become the Gardner has the habit of lin- fix themselves on anything person I am today. ing up his ball in a particular to get a leg up on other commanner regarding the hole petitors if it means perform- Q) What are five things before each putt. Like Jones, ing at their best potential. on your “Bucket List” (list Gardner also states that Sometimes though it’s the of things to do before you mental focus and the correct mental realm that plays just die)? thinking process may be the as big of a part in the athletes A) That’s a tough one. 1. keys in avoiding such ath- performance as their natural Play golf at St. Andrew’s in skill. letic voodoos.

Scotland, 2. Win a national Gardner says that most E-mail Zach at zach.south- championship, 3. Play golf at likely 85 percent of all ath- ard@leeclarion.com.

Augusta National, 4. Play a letes perform some kind of game against the University ritual before or during an of Kentucky and 5. Get my golf handicap under a 5 or 6.

Intramural Insider: Flag football season begins

By ZACH SOUTHARD Staff Writer

Lee Clarion photo by Travis Franklin

with Marty Rowe

Q) How long have you been coaching women’s basketball at Lee? A) This is my sixth year at Lee.

As the final stretch of the Fall 2009 semester begins to play out, students are hitting the gridiron for a banner year in the intramural athletic department.

let the games begin: Freshman Luke Cuthbert prepares to launch the ball into play.

Seat

A record number of 58 squads from both the guys and girls A and B leagues are comprising this semester’s flag football season, surpassing the old record of 57.

The number of teams signed up has made the sport the most prominent for students to play on campus, Eric Eledge, head of intramurals said.

“It really gained popularity in the early 2000’s, but declined and has really grown back since then,” Eledge said.

Junior Calvin Dillinger, who plays free safety for the Truffle Shuffle, enjoys going out and playing for the fun factor of the team and the sport without being too serious.

“Maybe we can’t compare to some of the teams, but it helps us get to know some the guys better and bond a little more,” Dillinger said.

A strong speculation early in the season has been referee judgement calls on the field. Participants like Dillinger and junior Jared Raines have noticed an ongoing trend of purposeful poor field judging that has

been made for the intentions of benefiting the umpire or the lack of experience the referee might hold in the sport.

“We’ve had some good umps and some bad umps,” Raines said. “The biggest problem has been a lack of communication in things that matter in terms of plays that might mark how the game will go,” Raines said.

Those accusations, Eledge said, are always going to be made, but a conscious effort is being made for no referee to umpire a game they might have ties to.

“Flag football is a working progress,” Eledge said. “There are more calls to be made and more plays to see. The early stages are obviously going to be a learning process,” Eledge said.

The intramural department is currently holding a flag football home-and-home series against rival school Tennessee Temple University, pairing the best team from each school against each other.

The first match up saw the Rehab squad from the B League fall in overtime 26-19 on Temple’s campus.

The next game against a Crusaders team will be held outside of O’Bannon and Bowdle Hall Friday, Nov. 20. The team that represents the Flames will be what Eledge calls a core group of guys.

E-mail Zach at zach.southard@leeclarion.com.

Q) What is your favorite moment/memory in your coaching career at Lee? A) Winning the first game in school history at the national tournament in 2007 against Brescia.

Q) What are your expectations for the team this year?

A) We have a good recruiting class and all five starts back this season. Expectations are high on the outside and people are expecting us to do well, but more than that we have high expectations for ourselves. We have a lot of work to do, but we’re hoping for a successful season.

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