Liberty Champion November 13, 2018

Continued coverage over Thanksgiving break at www.liberty.edu/ champion

Champion staff gives thanks

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VOLUME 36, ISSUE 9

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LIBERTYCHAMPION.COM | TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2018 | LIBERTY UNIVERSITY

thank you

Kayla Horn | Liberty Champion

MARCH — The community came together on Liberty’s campus Nov. 10 to honor American veterans in the second annual Lynchburg Area Veterans Council Veterans Day Parade.

WHAT’S

NEWS

@ LIBERTY

Falwells honored Presidents’ entrepreneurship celebrated

Lauren Osterhoudt losterhoudt@liberty.edu

After losing the race for a West Virginia House seat, Democrat Richard Ojeda announced Nov. 12 his intentions to run for president in 2020. Ojeda, a former Army paratrooper, voted for President Donald Trump in 2016 and believes the Democratic Party has “lost its roots,” according to CNN. The city of Lynchburg’s Fifth Street Corridor Utility and Streetscape Project is moving on to Phase III, which will close the intersection of Fifth Street, Park Avenue and Monroe Street. The intersection closed Nov. 12 and will be closed until further notice. News & Advance reported that motorists should use Eighth Street instead of Fourth Street as a detour.

Liberty University President Jerry Falwell Jr., and the late Jerry Falwell Sr., were inducted into the region’s new Business Hall of Fame during a gala hosted by the Lynchburg Regional Business Alliance Saturday, Nov. 3.

Falwell said he was grateful for the induction and that entrepreneurship has always run in the Falwell blood.

“The entrepreneur side of my dad was in his DNA,” Falwell said. “Sometimes he would fail time after time again, but he never gave up until he got it.”

It was announced earlier in the fall that Liberty University creates over $1 billion in economic activity for the region annually.

Falwell said he is proud to be a part of the business growth in Lynchburg and that the city has been the perfect partner for Liberty.

“We started out at odds with

each other, with different visions for the city,” Falwell said. “Turns out we were both wrong. Downtown Lynchburg has proven to be a great asset for Liberty, just as Liberty is for the city.”

“I’m grateful to be president of this great university and humbled to be recognized for the positive impact we are having on the Lynchburg area’s economy,” Falwell said.

The award comes after decades of financial struggles for the university.

“This recognition is a definite statement on how their tireless efforts through the years have impacted the region in such a positive way,” Kenneth Craig, Liberty’s Director of Government Relations, said.

Following in his father’s footsteps, Falwell has grown the success of Liberty exponentially and is now on a mission to train students to be entrepreneurs themselves, with the university’s new Office of Outreach and

Business Engagement, tasked with making business connections that benefit students and alumni.

“We’ve started a program at Liberty to teach students of all professions to also learn about the business side of things and what it takes to become an entrepreneur,” Falwell said. “Since Liberty is only (here) because of entrepreneurialism and business principles, I think we are staying true to our mission by including that in every curriculum.”

According to Jonathan Whitt, Liberty’s vice president for Outreach and Business Engagement, they exist as the front door to the University for business and industry connections and focuses on three main things.

The first of these includes a more effective talent development system for students which will offer students more opportunities to connect with employers.

See FALWELL, A3

Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine students provided basic services like mental health and vision screenings, mammograms and physicals to Martinsville, Virginia residents at a community clinic the first weekend of November, according to Liberty News Service.

The Main Street Bridge will reopen Nov. 15. The city of Lynchburg is hosting a ribbon cutting ceremony at 10 a.m.

Cinn City will provide cinnamon rolls and beverages.

Kyra Thompson| Liberty Champion

Feeling the west coast’s pain California pastor talks tragedy Logan Smith lcsmith@liberty.edu

Rob McCoy, pastor of Godspeak Calvary Chapel in Thousand Oaks, California, and a family from his church patiently waited in the Alex Fiore Teen Center while the coroner identified bodies from a bar shooting Wednesday, Nov. 7, that claimed the lives of 12 and injured 18 others.

The waiting was tortuous for the family members.

“The longer they wait, the more inevitable the news is going to be (bad),” McCoy said.

McCoy, also the mayor pro tempore of the southern California town, lost two members from his congregation in the shooting.

The New York Post reported that there is an average of 123 violent crimes per 100,000 citizens annually in Thousand Oaks. These statistics marked Thousand Oaks as one of the safest towns in the U.S. before the shooting, according to a study

by Niche, a website that analyzes crime data.

“When you have a police officer who is so well trained that he puts his life on the line to go in and stop a shooter and takes bullets and dies … that’s a safe city,” McCoy said, referring to Sgt. Ron Helus of the Venture County Sheriff’s Office.

Helus, who was one year away from retirement, was killed trying to stop the shooter.

FAMILY — The Falwell family attended a gala Nov. 3 for the Lynchburg Regional Business Alliance Business Hall of Fame inductees, who included Jerry Falwell Jr. and his late father, Jerry Falwell, Sr.

See FIRE, A2

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A2 | November 13, 2018 | Liberty Champion

Noah Haney |Student Government Association

TALK — From left to right, Student Body President Jake Page, Queenstar Banini, Lydia Elrod and Student Body Vice President Derek Rockey.

Noah Haney |Student Government Association

SPEAK UP — Students were encouraged to speak up and take action regarding racial issues.

Digging for the deeper issue SGA opens doors for exchange of ideas, encourages DIRT talk attendance Madison Hirneisen mghirneisen@liberty.edu

Recent events regarding race relations on the campus of Liberty University caught the attention of the Student Government Association (SGA) and prompted student body leaders to host an open discussion for students to voice their concerns.

The student-led discussion was titled “The Deeper Issue: An Open Discussion on Race Relations at Liberty,” and took place in an SGA conference room in the Montview Student Office. About 30 students gathered to participate in the discussion.

Junior Lydia Elrod, SGA’s director of recruitment, opened the discussion with the parable of the Good Samaritan, explaining that the Samaritan did not question whether the beaten traveler’s pain was “legitimate” before providing help and compassion. Elrod said she wanted discussions during the meeting to mirror the character of the Good Samaritan and center on practical solutions to the problem.

“We titled this ‘The Deeper Issue’ because we felt as though some things on campus are really left unsaid,” Elrod said.

Elrod briefly addressed the peaceful protest that occurred on Liberty’s campus Oct. 31, which was related to racism. As a result of the protest, Elrod explained, SGA recognized there were likely some underlying senFIRE continued from A1 The mass shooting was not the only catastrophe that devastated Thousand Oaks during the last

timents regarding race relations at Liberty that needed to be addressed among members of the student body.

Elrod opened the floor for members of the audience to voice concerns and share experiences regarding race relations at Liberty.

Elrod, Student Body President Jacob Page, Student Body Vice President Derek Rockey and SGA member Queenstar Banini oversaw the conversation by asking clarifying questions and taking notes for future action on the part of SGA. Multiple African American students shared testimonials concerning situations during their time at Liberty when they felt they encountered prejudice and racism. One student told of a time she was harassed by a group of students who yelled inappropriate racial slurs when driving near her. Another student shared his experience with a former teammate who called him a racial slur multiple times in conversation.

“There (are) steps that (Liberty) takes to go forward a lot of the time, like we’ll do a talk or something, and that’s great, but other than that I don’t see a lot of steps going forward,” one student in the audience commented. “I mean, discussions, that is the first step. But it’s a shifty topic with me because I love what (SGA) is doing … but it would be great to see some practical things.”

A central theme during the discussion was the need for practical steps to be taken to reduce the complacency of students regard-

week. By Friday, Nov. 9, California wildfires surrounded the town and caused some residents to evacuate their homes. Since then, wild fires in the state have burned more than

Brittny Meija |Twitter OAKS — Shooting survivor Matt Wennerstrom, 20, spoke to news outlets.

ing racism. Members of the audience offered feedback regarding this issue, many agreeing that the tension with race relations at Liberty could be solved if students stood up for the discriminated more often and if students and faculty were more educated on matters of race. Instead of sending “thoughts and prayers” for those hurting, multiple audience members expressed the desire for more students to speak up for victims of prejudice.

“If something does not affect you, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t care,” Banini said. “I think a lot of the complacency comes from a place of, ‘it doesn’t really bother me, so I’m not going to like spend energy on it.’ But if you’re going to claim the name of Christ, we have to have this mindset of what bothers my neighbor also bothers me.”

The conversation shifted as audience members began offering practical ways to solve the problem of complacency and prejudice on Liberty’s campus. The Office of Equity and Inclusion has been hosting DIRT Talks, where students can join in an open discussion about difficult topics. However, many students voiced concerns that the student body is not often aware of the schedule of these talks. Students in the audience suggested that the student body could be better engaged in conversations regarding race and prejudice if the DIRT talks were better advertised.

Students offered a number of other practical steps SGA could take to improve race

“

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100,000 acres, 7,000 buildings “A faith not tested isn’t a faith Despite hardships, McCoy re— mostly homes — and killed more worth having,” McCoy said, who flected on Proverbs 11:25, which than 31 people across the state, has leaned heavily on his faith for says, “A generous person will prosaccording to various news reports. guidance through California’s mo- per; whoever refreshes others will More than 200 remain missing. ment of turmoil. himself be refreshed” (NIV).

The death toll continues to As a pastor, McCoy counseled “If you’ve ever doubted the exsteadily rise as officials identify grieving parents, but he said the istence of God, then try serving more bodies, some resomebody… then duced to either bone you’ll realize it’s all or bone fragments, acIt’s not trivial. It’s profound. There’s there,” McCoy said. cording to the Butte McCoy, whose hundreds of thousands, if not daughter attends Sheriff’s Office.

The wild blaze left ParUniversity, over a million people ... across the Liberty adise, a town about 500 said he appreciated miles north of Thousand country praying. And we’re just coming all the prayer and Oaks, in complete ruins. support from Lynchtogether as a community, and we just burg, Virginia, and The bone-dry climate and unforgiving winds around the nation. have this peace. helped scorch the entire “It’s not trivial. business district, and it It’s profound,” Mc— Rob McCoy Coy said. “There’s transformed thousands of structures — mostly hundreds of thouhomes — into rubble and ash. community has received tremen- sands, if not over a million people East of Thousand Oaks, a fire dous encouragement. To top it off, … across the country praying. And threatens to encroach the town as McCoy vacated his house because we’re just coming together as a it steadily grows larger. For Mc- of impending wildfires. During all community, and we just have this Coy, this second tragedy afforded of this, McCoy acquired little sleep peace.” him an opportunity to share the and even experienced a period of SMITH is the manager of gospel.

57 hours with no sleep. content

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relations at Liberty. These suggestions included better vetting of Convocation guests and making the reporting process more accessible for victims of prejudice and civil rights violations. SGA members plan to take the comments from students into consideration as they decide how to move forward regarding racial relations at Liberty.

“We got a lot of practical solutions (during the meeting),” Elrod said. “I can’t say exactly what we’ll be doing, but we will be having more conversations like this, undoubtedly.

We just want to make ourselves available to the students, and we want them to come to us and us to go to them. We want people to feel comfortable with SGA.” Students interested in participating in discussions regarding topics related to racism, prejudice and complacency can follow SGA on social media @libertyusga for updates regrading upcoming forums and discussions.

Additionally, the upcoming DIRT talks will open the discussion about the #MeToo movement. The next DIRT talk is Nov. 15 in the Graduate and Commuter Student Lounge from 6:30-8:30 p.m., Nov. 29 in the Office of Equity and Inclusion Office from 6:30-8:30 p.m. and Dec. 4 in the Library Active Learning Room from 6:30-8:30 p.m.

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Liberty Champion | November 13, 2018 | A3

FACS students win big

Virginia Furniture Market Design Competition awards scholarships to students Brittany Slaughter bdslaughter@liberty.edu

Employees at Virginia Furniture Market stores do not have to worry about creating a floor plan display for Black Friday for at least one show room. Liberty FACS Students have it covered.

On Oct. 10, students in FACS 345, Materials and Specifications, entered their work to be judged for the Virginia Furniture Market Design Competition.

The first-place winners of the competition were Alyssa Cirillo, Evelyn Toderic, Maribeth Harrington and Rebecca Orth. They won a $2,500 scholarship, which was split among the four and deposited into their student accounts, Cirillo said.

The students had roughly a month to design a set for a customer space, according to Cirillo.

Her team won the competition with their fall-themed living room design.

Each team had worked on their design for four weeks before the competition, designing conceptual sketches and a floor plan for the room, using several furniture pieces from VFM stores in their design. According to Liberty News Service, the winning designs will be implemented in two VFM store locations — Bedford and Rocky Mount — before Black Friday.

The owners of VFM, along with some of their employees, judged the competition. On the day of judging, the students presented their pieces but were not told then who the winners were.

The winners were announced two weeks later, which gave the contestants time to post their ideas on social media for voting. The group that received the

Photos Provided

SCHOLARSHIP — The winning team received a $2,500 scholarship, which was split evenly among the team members. most social media votes won the People’s Choice Award — a $500 scholarship. This was a separate competition.

The pieces chosen from the store factored into the judging.

“They chose a group based on what we presented and what we picked but also what

would sell during the season,” Harrington said.

The competition was a class project and was required for a grade. It was the competition that pushed the girls to win. Toderic describes the team as having a competitive nature.

“What made us want to do well

Kyra Thompson | Liberty Champion

HONORED — Jerry Falwell and his wife, Becki, celebrated his induction into the Business Hall of Fame Nov. 3. The Hall of Fame was created by the Lynchburg Regional Business Alliance.

FALWELL continued from A1 “Our Career Center makes the valuable connections,” Whitt said. “By helping connect with businesses, we build valuable relationships which turn into career development opportunities for our students.”

The office also focuses on

“

One of these partnerships is with BWX Technologies, Inc. President of BWX’s Nuclear Services Group, Kenneth Camplin, spoke about why he thinks having the office will prove to be a beneficial move for the university.

“Having an office that facilitates business relationships will help connect stu-

Since Liberty is only (here) because of entrepreneurialism and business principles, I think we are staying true to our mission by including that in every curriculum — Jerry Falwell

finding corporate partnerships to work with students in areas such as research and scholarship. The final concentration of the office is helping the companies get to know Liberty and asking for their input on curriculum development.

dents and employers, particularly those within the local industry,” Camplin said.

Camplin agreed that the office’s emphasis on trying to make sure students are being taught things that will be relevant to their future careers is important.

“Having mutual understandings and programs is a really good thing,” Camplin said. “For potential employers of Liberty students, having the students in programs and pursuing degrees that would be of interest to specific industries makes it easier to connect with them.”

Whitt said the office was started only recently because the university has not had an immediate need for it until now. He explained that the office has been the result of the natural growth of the school.

“In order to keep and maintain a better academic program, it becomes necessary,” Whitt said. “We’ve been putting everything in place and now we’re fully in the game.”

For more information about the services offered by the new office, visit Liberty. edu/OBE.

OSTERHOUDT is a content reporter.

was everyone in my group specifically (is) pretty competitive when it comes to competitions, and so we all just put our heads together (to make) sure we did (our) best,” Toderic said.

According to Liberty News, this is the third year that Liberty students have competed in the

competition.

“Since 2016, VFM, a retail furniture store with locations in Southwest and Central Virginia has awarded $15,000 in scholarships to Liberty students,” the website said.

Toderic said her favorite part was the decorating.

“The whole competition in of itself was great, but I would definitely say my favorite part of it was after winning, we got a gift card we all could use to buy extra decorations for the display,” Toderic said. “That was probably my favorite part, because for me, my favorite part of interior design is decorating,” Harrington said she enjoyed the initial designing and seeing the plan come to life.

“Going to the Virginia Furniture Store and picking out all of our furniture and accessories, as well as coming up with the colors we wanted to use throughout our floor and seeing it all come together (was my favorite part),” Harrington said.

Orth said the team worked well together because of their similarities.

“It was really nice we all had similar styles and taste, so we agreed on a lot of things, and it was fun working together and working with them,” Orth said.

More information about VFM can be found on their website at https://www.vafurnituremarket. com/.

SLAUGHTER is a content reporter.

A4

OPINION

November 13, 2018

Dominion mandate Christians are called to be good stewards of the earth

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STEWARDSHIP — God created man to have dominion and stewardship over creation.

Kacey Huffty khuffty@liberty.edu

A barren, suffocating world where life as we know it is over is often the premise of Hollywood’s latest sci-fi blockbuster or the setting of a novel that’s soared to the top of the bestseller list.

Rarely do we think of such disaster happening in our own lifetime. But according to recent reports on the effects of climate change, it’s clear that there is no longer an option to deny the human contribution to climate change.

To address climate change, we need to change our greenhouse effects on the world, and we need to do it now. As Christians, we have a sacred calling to protect creation and mitigate the harmful effects of humans.

A report from the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, made up of more than 1,300 independent scientific experts, predicts 20 years before the planet reaches a crucial breaking point in 2030. By then, the average sur-

face temperature will have risen almost 3 degrees Fahrenheit.

If that human effects on climate change continues, the global temperature will have risen by an average of 7 degrees by 2100.

“A 1-degree global change is significant because it takes a vast amount of heat to warm all the oceans, atmosphere, and land by that much,” a NASA report details. “A 5-degree drop was enough to bury a large part of North America under a towering mass of ice.”

The implications of such a drastic rise in temperature all but guarantees the risk of wildfires, extreme drought, rising sea levels and food shortages for billions.

Climate change on this scale is nearly universally agreed upon by scientists as the result of human induced greenhouse gas emissions, according to NASA. These emissions are caused by buildup from burning fossil fuels such as coal and oil. As a result: the gasses get trapped in the atmosphere, creating

an enhanced greenhouse effect and increasing global temperature averages.

Yet despite these studies, only 28 percent of evangelicals acknowledge that human activity is the primary cause of climate change. By comparison, 60 percent of the general population believe that human activity causes climate change, according to the Morning Call.

The New York Times reported that 31 percent of Republicans recognize climate change as caused by humans.

Scripture is permeated with examples of God commanding us to tend to his creation. It’s one of the first things God asked of us in Genesis 2:15, after the creation of mankind. Likewise, there are examples in Jeremiah 2:7 and Deuteronomy 11:12 of how God looks over his creation.

We are stewards of the earth, and we have a responsibility to care for it. Scripture is clear that all of God’s creation, not just mankind, brings him glory.

Therefore, our stewardship and upkeep of the earth is one of the greatest offerings of worship we can give.

Sitting back and doing nothing because one day Christ will return and make all things new is the antithesis of the gospel. Ignoring our duty to the earth based on that reasoning is a misguided attempt at passing off our apathy as faith.

We must trust that God can handle the long term and rejoice in the fact that one day there will be a new earth. But we need to realize that we have a responsibility to the earth now. Our dominion over the earth should never be confused as permission to abuse or abandon it.

In the next issue of the Champion, a writer will explain the contrasting viewpoint on human-caused climate change.

HUFFTY is an opinion writer.

Ill-fated voyage The glory of man is not something worth celebrating Abby Bowman abowman7@liberty.edu

“So… will it have more lifeboats?”

That is the most common question I have heard from my friends about the Titanic II, which is currently under construction. Although reports indicate the working replica of the doomed ship will indeed have more and better lifeboats, there are other reasons why it would be best for it to never sail.

Although replicas often honor history by giving guests a picture of their predecessors, the currently marketed Titanic II borders on irreverent.

According to an ABC article, the ship will launch in 2022, following the intended route of the original vessel from Southampton, England, to New York for its maiden voyage.

Titanic II was the brainchild of Clive Palmer, chairman of the launching company Blue Star Line. The Australian company initially announced the ship in 2012 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the launching of the original RMS Titanic. However, according to a BBC article, Blue Star Line suspended work on Titanic II from 2015 until recently because of a legal dispute with a Chinese company

According to a New York Times article, Titanic II will fit 2,435 passengers in three classes of cabins, like the original ship. The layout and interior will also be basically the same, although the ship will also include plenty of motorized lifeboats and, according to a Fox News article, modern technology for safety, navigation and comfort.

As far as replicas go, the Titanic II looks flawless. However, rather than use the ship to commemorate the original Titanic’s tragic history, Palmer and Blue Star Line seem more focused on selling a unique cruise vacation.

“Millions have dreamt of sailing on her, seeing her in port and experiencing her unique majesty. Titanic II will be the ship where those dreams come true,” Palmer said in a Blue Star Line press release.

In other places, the press release talked about the Titanic II’s “luxurious comfort” and referred to the original Titanic as the “ship of dreams.”

Palmer even compared an experience on the Titanic II to the Titanic movie while defending the project’s dubious European director in a statement quoted by BBC. “He shares Blue Star Line’s passion for recreating the ship of dreams as a

symbol of love and peace in the world, playing to the Jack and Rose in all of us,” Palmer said.

Granted, the Blue Star Line press release quoted Palmer about how the Titanic II would inspire global interest, but even then, Palmer and the Blue Star Line seemed particularly determined to focus on the romanticized, movie-like version of the Titanic and gloss over the tragedy that befell the infamous ship.

That tragedy should not be glossed over.

The RMS Titanic wrecked April 15, 1912, costing the lives of more than 1,500 people. There were far too few lifeboats for the passengers, prompting many men to sacrifice their lives for women and children.

If Blue Star Line and Palmer treated the Titanic II as a way to honor the dead and to learn from the mistakes of those who built and believed in an indestructible ship, all would be well. Unfortunately, the Titanic II seems to be constructed in exactly the same vein with exactly the same purpose as the original: the glory of man.

BOWMAN is an opinion writer.

Emma Smith esmith83@liberty.edu

I first met Emma Smith, our A-section copy editor, in a magazine writing class more than two years ago, but our friendship extends beyond the classroom.

Through thick and thin, we both work tirelessly for the Liberty Champion. Without her positive attitude and incredible work ethic, this newspaper would not be the proficient piece of art you hold in your hands.

"Life with Logan" will return Dec. 4.

-Logan Sunday morning, as I rushed through the chilly morning air to my car, I noticed a small American flag planted near the path leading to my door. Smiling, I scanned the yards in the neighborhood to see red, white and blue flags waving in celebration of Veterans Day. Though I’m not from a military family, I deeply respect veterans for their service, as my grandfather served in the United States Air Force for more than 30 years. The festive banners decorating my street reminded me of Papa’s patriotism and service not only to his country, but also to his family.

I never knew him as Chief Master Sgt. James W. Smith — tall, clean cut, and serious.

I knew him as Papa — my paternal grandfather who kept a tin of jelly beans atop the fridge for me and always told me to “be sweet” when it was time for me to go home.

Papa had lots of quirks. He was hard of hearing from spending so many years working in the underbelly of cargo planes without proper ear protection, and he loved penguins because of his many months spent in Antarctica for Operation Deep Freeze.

As a loadmaster cargo specialist, Papa spent a lot of time away from his family of four during his career. He climbed to the rank of Chief Master Sergeant — the highest enlisted rank for the Air Force — at the age of 34, making him the Air Force’s youngest CMS at that time.

Despite his honors and medals, Papa did not talk much about his successful career. In fact, I didn’t hear much about his work until after he passed away my senior year of high school. Until I witnessed a military color guard ceremoniously fold the American flag atop his casket and present it to my grandmother, I didn’t understand the respect Papa earned during his lifetime.

Knowing of his prestige gives me a deeper appreciation for the memories I have of him, as Papa served the United States for a good portion of his life, yet he made time for his family.

Growing up, I remember talking to my grandma about their life together. Though Papa spent long periods of time overseas for deployment, she never once complained. In fact, she often reminisced of their sweet moments together and his patience and kindness through the years.

After retiring from the Air Force, Papa worked as the head of maintenance for an elementary school. Some students intentionally caused trouble, so they would get to spend detention helping Papa with maintenance calls.

During his last years on earth, Papa continued to make people smile. I visited him at his nursing home as often as possible, and I’d often find him sitting in an armchair in the hallway talking to passersby. Even in the Intensive Care Unit at the hospital, his nurse said he managed to crack a few jokes.

Papa was humble and quiet and somewhat mysterious, but he was one of the most respectable people I’ve ever known. On Veterans Day, I celebrated his patriotism and his love, and I encourage readers to thank veterans in their lives.

The last time I saw him, it was just the two of us in the ICU. I sat next to him and told him about my day. Before I left, he reminded me to “be sweet.”

Don’t worry Papa, I will.

SMITH is a copy editor.

MAIDEN VOYAGE — An exact replica of the original ship, Titanic II is scheduled to make its first voyage in 2022.

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opinion

Liberty Champion | November 13, 2018 | A5

Midterms The results are in, so what next?

Tim Murcek twmurcek@liberty.edu

Tim Murcek is a junior government major and the president of the College Republicans.

He also serves as the junior class president at Liberty University.

Wylie Family

ANNUAL TRADITION — For more than 20 years, the Wylie family has spent Thanksgiving Day together, enjoying fellowship and giving thanks for their blessings.

Give thanks The traditions and community of Thanksgiving sets it apart as the best holiday of the year

Chad Wylie cewylie@liberty.edu

As November approached, people began to feel anticipation rising. The temperature dropped, the days got shorter and shopping malls extend their hours.

Then, at the stroke of midnight Nov. 1, the Christmas spirit took center stage.

Approximately one minute into November, I heard my first Christmas song of the year. Not long after that, work crews began assembling Christmas trees and wrapping lights around Liberty’s campus. Now, when I go visit my friends at their apartment, I expect to be welcomed by white Christmas lights and evergreens covered in ornaments.

I love Christmas as much as anybody. Justin Bieber’s Christmas album and my Buzz Lightyear ornaments are important parts of my December routine. I’ve already enjoyed my first peppermint mocha of the year from Starbucks.

But as Christmas festivities are pushed earlier in the year, I am saddened to see more and more people neglecting my favorite holiday: Thanksgiving.

No other holiday brings together the three fundamental “F’s” of American life – family, food and football – quite like Thanksgiving. Many of my favorite memories involve this spectacular holiday.

Thanksgiving is the one time every year that my entire family comes together. It brings my grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins under one roof for an entire week.

Every year, the cousins wake up at various hours of the morning to find everyone gathered around watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. We would sing along with the performers and wait for Santa to make his appearance.

Eventually the family migrates toward the kitchen for the greatest meal of the year. My mom’s homemade stuffing, my aunt’s mashed potatoes and gravy and my grandma’s pumpkin pie all find their way onto my plate. No one judges when I go back for second, third

and fourth helpings of Thanksgiving dinner.

After eating, most of us congregate to the television to bond over the one thing we all agree on – hoping the Dallas Cowboys lose. With 11 hours of NFL games scheduled for Thanksgiving Day, an evening of football and naps is the perfect ending to my perfect holiday.

My love of Thanksgiving extends far beyond just food and football. My family has celebrated this holiday since it was first created. My grandmother’s maiden name is Fuller, directly descended from Samuel Fuller, the doctor for the Pilgrims who sailed to America on the Mayflower.

For me, Thanksgiving is a much-needed annual reminder to take time and celebrate all the blessings I have received.

When my whole family comes together, I am reminded of how privileged I am to have been raised in a family who loves me and loves God and taught me to do the same.

When we eat until we can’t eat anymore, we always take a moment to be thankful for the simple blessings that we often take for granted.

When we sit around and watch the

parade or football or the dog show, I remember to be thankful for the joys in life, no matter how small, that God has given me.

After the food is on the table, before we sit and eat, my grandma makes the same request every year. We circle together, hold hands and sing the Doxology, pra ising the “God from whom all blessings flow.”

As tears stream down my grandmother’s face, I can see the joy and pride in her expression as generations of Wylies sing in unison and give thanks. That simple moment of singing, sounding sweeter to me than any Christmas song, is what makes Thanksgiving the most important day of my year.

Whether you bake, roast or deep fry your turkey, whether you cheer for the Cowboys, the Lions or for them both to lose, take a moment this Thanksgiving to count your blessings and give thanks for all you have been given. For me, there is no day as humbling, meaningful and important as Thanksgiving Day.

WYLIE is the opinion editor.

Another election season has come and gone, with the bittersweet taste of victories and defeats still lingering in the mouths of both major political parties. A Democratic majority holds the House of Representatives, but an expanded Republican Senate provides a major check to their power.

A divided legislature is often touted to produce the best policy, but in an age as polarizing as ours, will the chambers be able to find common ground when the 116th Congress is sworn into office in January? And, who really won on election day, if anyone?

The 2018 midterms boasted significantly higher turnout than the usual 40 percent, according to NPR. The anticipated “Blue Wave” had its moments of greatness, but its high expectations did not seem to be met on election night.

Even still, Republicans’ strongest efforts to maintain control of both chambers of Congress were not enough to stem the energy from the Democratic electorate.

As most political scientists will concur, voters are leery of too much power in the hands of one party for too long, and, thus, the see-saw battle is played out in most elections. However, this past election was a bit irregular.

Democrats now control the House by 28 seats, with 13 races still outstanding. Their margin of wins is larger than some predicted heading into election day.

This victory is quite significant, as Democrats expected to take the House by 30 seats, according to FiveThirtyEight. At this point, the Democrats have picked up 32 seats, with 10 races still up in the air.

However, it is important to keep in mind that the House is a far easier chamber to win than the Senate and White House. In addition,

“I’m thankful for my family, my girlfriend and for sunny Florida.” — Jacob Couch

“I’m thankful to see my family and that caffeine exists.” — Haley Nicas

“I’m thankful for blankets and comfy socks.” — Emily Baker

MURCEK is a guest writer.

“I’m thankful for my family, my dog, Michael Bublé’s Christmas album, and Oscar season.” — Ryan Klinker

“I’m thankful for my leadership team — they keep me encouraged.” — Jenna Crenshaw

“I’m thankful for Joe Beans, my mom, the new Lany album, the oxford comma and Scott Lamb.” — Lilly Abbatacola

“I’m thankful for pizza, video games, anime, Magic: the Gathering, metal music, fantasy novels and energy drinks.”

— Logan Smith

“I’m thankful that I am not a turkey, for chocolate and that I get to marry my best friend next summer.” — Rachel Van Tuyl

The Champion staff shares what they are thankful for this year.

as a Hill piece pointed out, many House races exposed a sharp divide in the Democratic party, between the old guard of the blue collar establishment and a new wave of galvanizing progressives.

Democrats were able to utilize both, but their most closely watched, upset races came from this new wing of the party, and may not bode good things for their chances in 2020, if the message is not unified, coherent and reasonable.

Republicans, on the other hand, were dealt their defeat on the House side, but all was not lost on Nov. 6, as the Republican Senate majority will likely add two and potentially three seats, depending on Arizona, when recounts are concluded.

The Brett Kavanaugh confirmation process played a major part in spiking voter enthusiasm on the Senate side, but, even still, Republicans defeated many longterm Democratic incumbents in difficult states on election night, including Claire McCaskill of Missouri, Bill Nelson of Florida, Joe Donnelly of Indiana and Heidi Heitkamp of North Dakota. This aggressive expansion combined with good defensive play in states like Texas and Nevada, should concern Democrats who laude their House win.

During the past two years, Majority Leader Mitch McConnell’s tactical genius has been on brilliant display, especially with regard to judicial confirmations, and his advantage increased substantially overnight.

An especially important point for Democrats to remember is that while the House and state legislatures are imperative to win, Senate elections are statewide, and when the White House and both chambers of Congress are up for grabs in two years, the message must reach further.

For Republicans, while national races are important, if the message doesn’t strike enough chords locally, it won’t withstand wellplaced attacks as well as it did last Tuesday.

There were no clear winners and losers on Election Day 2018.

In the long run, who comes out on top will depend on who applies the lessons learned.

“I’m thankful for the Blue Ridge Mountains, digital photography and Ryan Klinker’s patience.” — Allison Heise

“I’m thankful for community, good friendships, coffee, bagels and letter boards.”

— Elizabeth Mallicoat

“I’m thankful for my family, my friends, and the hard work the color black puts in for her aesthetic.” — Bethany Kocik

“I’m thankful for my family, my wonderful fiancé and my friendly work environment and a fulfilling degree program.” — Emma Smith

“I’m thankful for my family, my best friends at Liberty, the U.S. Women’s soccer team and a new college basketball season.” — Chad Wylie

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICIES & INFO PHOTOGRAPHY

SOCIAL MEDIA

Ryan Klinker photography editor

Deanna Drogan social media manager

Jenna Crenshaw feature editor

Allison Heise asst. photography editor

Faith Banford web manager

Emily Smith copy editor

DESIGN

Bethany Kocik copy editor

Haley Nicas graphic designer

Logan Smith manager of content

Emily Baker sports editor

Sarah Rodriguez graduate assistant

Jacob Couch asst. sports editor

CONTENT Lilli Abbatacola content editor Rachel Van Tuyl asst. content editor Chad Wylie editorial editor

Elizabeth Mallicoat graphic designer

ADMINISTRATION Deborah Huff faculty advisor Scott Lamb consultant

The Champion encourages community members to submit letters to the editor on any subject.

Letters should not exceed 400 words and must be typed and signed. The deadline is 5 p.m. Friday.

Letters and columns that appear are the opinion of the author solely, not the Champion editorial board or Liberty University.

Send letters to: Liberty Champion Liberty University Lynchburg, VA 24515 or drop off in Green Hall 1565.

All material submitted becomes property of the Champion. The Champion reserves the right to accept, reject or edit any letter received—according to the Champion stylebook, taste and the Liberty University mission statement. © Copyright 2016 Liberty University, Inc. All Rights Reserved

content

A6 | November 13, 2018 | Liberty Champion

Constructive conversation

SGA hosts panelists to discuss the intersection of theology and politics Will Evans wjevans@liberty.edu

may be seen by some as contradictory to biblical commands?”

“It isn’t as simple as good people (and) bad people because we’re all a mess,” former member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives and Liberty alum Jeff Coleman said.

Coleman discussed strategy and conviction. He said politics can often turn into dropping conviction at the ballot box and playing to strategy, or voting for the positive benefits that may come from a candidate. However, Coleman believes Christians should never sacrifice conviction for results when they feel the Holy Spirit is telling them otherwise.

“I think every believer has a responsibility to be in consultation with the Holy Spirit …

‘Lord I’m in the ballot box, tell me what to do,’” Coleman said.

Coleman also said in situations like these, he does not believe in forcing convictions on others, as such a conviction is between one person and God. The third question dealt with the issue of racism in America: “What is the proper political and religious response to rising racial

Can religion and politics coexist? This is the question that students and staff members wrestled with at the first ever Student Government Association Table Talk.

The event, which took place Thursday, Nov. 1 in Liberty University’s Science Building, featured a round table discussion with four panelists — Penny Nance, Jeff Coleman, Dr. Kristen Hark and Dr. David Wheeler — where students could ask their most pressing questions about Christianity and politics ahead of this year’s Nov. 6 midterm elections.

After opening with a word of prayer, two mediators posed topic-based questions to the panel on the issue of the Church and politics.

Issues of principle were addressed, such as, “How do you allow theology to influence politics, and not the other way around?”

“Your theology affects every aspect of your life,” Liberty Evangelism professor David Wheeler said. “That includes how you respond to politics.”

For Wheeler, it is impossible to separate theology from There has to be an outlet for Christian any aspect of life, especially politics, women to have a voice. because it is so woven — Penny Nance into the fabric of morality and how Christians distinguish right from wrong.

“How can we judge what’s right and tensions?” wrong, unless we understand from a theoKristen Hark, chair of Strategic and Perlogical perspective, what that looks like?” sonal Communications at Liberty, believes Wheeler said. “That affects who you vote for the response to both is the same. and who you support.”

Hark believes everyone has a story to tell, Issues of conviction were also addressed: and it is important to realize and respect that “Can an Evangelical Christian continue to everyone’s story is different. support a president when some of his actions “I think the political answer and the theo-

“

Kyra Thompson | Liberty Champion

TOPICS — The SGA Table Talk addressed issues such as theology, conviction and racism. logical answer is, ‘I don’t have to agree with (you), but I should be able to hear you,’” Hark said.

The issue of abortion and women’s rights was on the table as well, with panelist and CEO of Concerned Women for America Penny Nance as lead representative.

“There has to be an outlet for Christian women to have a voice,” Nance said. “Although identity is in Christ, it’s important for us to be the counter point.”

Nance’s organization is unashamedly both pro-life and conservative. Nance believes that she and her organization give a voice to the silent majority. Nance believes CWA stands with a quiet but passionate congregation of women who do not fall into conventional political stereotypes.

“We don’t all agree,” Nance said. “We are not monolithic.”

At the end of the session, students were encouraged to stay after and ask panelists their questions.

“Dr. Wheeler’s perspective was very important to me,” student Cody Wiley said.

“He reminded me that the Bible is our filter for everything, whether it’s schoolwork, conflict or politics.”

Afterward, Wheeler said he hoped the take away was that in every aspect of life, the love of Christ should drive one to conversation, rather than hatred and division.

“In our culture, we tend to always fight and butt heads with each other instead of sitting down and talking to one another,” Wheeler said. “We have got to stop yelling at each other and start talking to one another.

EVANS is a content reporter.

Eat your heart out Liberty dining receives top 5 ranking Hattie Troutman htroutman@liberty.edu

Liberty University’s dining program stands out once again among college dining programs across the nation, ranking as the fifth best dining program, according to the Daily Meal.

Due to the variety of dining options, students have the opportunity to dine at the Reber-Thomas Dining Hall and 23 other dining locations on campus.

The dining program, run

by Sodexo, was also judged on the sustainability of the program. Through the ranking, Liberty showcased its use of locally-grown produce purchased through Cavalier Produce of Charlottesville. Cavalier Produce provides in-season produce from a 50-mile radius that is served at all dining locations.

To ensure the program continues to advance, a senior team from Sodexo tours the entire country every year, visiting other college dining programs.

From this, they are able to compare Liberty’s dining program to other universities in hopes of making the

program better. The madeto-order sushi bar and the make-your-own pasta station were additions influenced by the tour.

According to Ryan Wheeler, the marketing manager for Sodexo, the culinary team is sent out to receive training each year to ensure they are equipped to do the best they can for the dining program. The Sodexo team believes that investing into the chefs gives students a good return on the money they spend for dining.

“Our team wants to continue putting out the best quality we can,” Wheeler said. “Our chefs are passionate about what we do.”

A major focus for the Sodexo team is to have chefs be on the front lines serving the food directly to the students and making relationships with them. Their hope in creating more open food bars where students can see their food being made is it to have barriers broken down between chef and student.

According to Wheeler, the team is always looking for ways to invest back into the program and enhance the student dining

experience.

“Every year there is some kind of remodel, so we can continue investing in the infrastructure of the dining program,” Wheeler said.

Liberty’s partnership with Healthy America ensures the dining program is maintaining healthy standards at all dining locations.

The campus dietitian, Rachel Sanders, is passionate for the dining program to meet these healthy standards by providing several well-balanced options.

The Sodexo team also values the feedback they receive from students. Wheeler said most changes that happen each year comes from the yearly surveys. Senior management staff members also have meetings with residential assistants and sit in on Student Government Association town hall meetings to discuss valuable changes that can be made to the dining program.

“Students have to eat it every day, and we want to make it the best possible,” Wheeler said.

TROUTMAN is a content reporter.

Caroline Cummings | Liberty News Service

QUALITY — The Reber-Thomas Dining Hall is one of 24 dining locations on Liberty’s campus.

CANDLELIGHT

TOURS

CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS WITH AN ENCHANTING WALK THROUGH HISTORY Tour the President’s cherished hideaway after dark, decorated for the holidays, with live musical accompaniment and guides sharing true stories and anecdotes from Jefferson’s own letters and diaries.

Thursdays, December 6 and 13 at 5:30 p.m.

Fridays and Saturdays, November 30, Dec. 1, 7, 8 and 14 at 5:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

Admission: $20 | Reservation required Call 434.534.8120 | poplarforest.org/events 1542 Bateman Bridge Road (GPS) | Forest, VA 24551-0419

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Liberty Champion | November 13, 2018 | A7

Allison Heise| Liberty Champion

FALLING — Students enjoyed the autumn weather on campus.

Allison Heise| Liberty Champion

CONVO — This fall, the Office of Spiritual Development has hosted guests like Candace Owens, TobyMac, Michael Jr., Bob Goff, Steele Johnson and Gary Chapman.

Taryn Azimov| Liberty Champion

NEW — Lynchburg celebrated New London Day Oct. 21 by honoring the historical site.

Macy Hrncir| Liberty Champion

CAMO — Liberty’s campus hosted the city’s second annual Veterans Day parade Nov. 10.

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A8 | November 13, 2018 | Liberty Champion

Senate Race Winners

Tim Kaine @timkaine

Tim Kaine Retweeted AP Politics ­— “THANK YOU, VIRGINIA! In the Senate, I’ll always listen to you. I’ll take your ideas and values to Washington, and keep fighting to solve your problems.

We have to keep Virginia moving forward and put our country back on the right track. That starts now!”

6:55 p.m. - 6 Nov. 2018

Virginia

Tim Kaine — Democrat Lillian Abbatacola | Liberty Champion

TIM KAINE — U.S. Senate winner from Virginia.

Brian Kemp — Republican

Florida — Recounting Rick Scott — Republican

Texas

Ted Cruz — Republican

BEN CLINE— U.S. House of Representatives 6th District winner.

Ryan Klinker | Liberty Champion

Ben Cline @Cline4Virginia

“Thank you!”

10:53 a.m. - 8 Nov. 2018

Leslie Cockburn

@LeslieCockburn

“Thank you with

all my heart to the phenomenal army of interns, fellows and volunteers who worked tirelessly to Flip the Fifth.

We built the foundations of a movement that will carry on through critical races next year and in 2020.

And we can be proud of the new Democratic House.”

11:29 a.m. - 7 Nov. 2018

Matt Waters

@VASenate2018

“A big THANK YOU to: All 61,688 Virginians who voted for liberty & limited Gov My wife & kids who made this possible My hardworking team All our supporters & those that gave us media inclusion.”

2:17 p.m. - 7 Nov. 2018

Pennsylvania

Bob Casey — Democrat

California

Dianne Feinstein — Democrat

@Denver4VA

5:02 p.m. - 7 Nov. 2018

Phil Berger — Republican

Georgia — Recounting

Denver Riggleman “Thank you, 5th District Voters. I am tremendously grateful for your support and promise to make you proud in Congress. #VA05”

North Carolina

Ohio

Sherrod Brown — Democrat

Maryland

Ben Cardin — Democrat DENVER RIGGLEMAN — U.S. House of Representatives 5th District winner.

Allison Heise | Liberty Champion

Big firsts

Election paints 116th U.S. Congress purple Lillian Abbatacola leabatacola@liberty.edu

Of the 5,121 registered voters on Liberty’s campus, 20.05 percent showed up to the polls, Nov. 6.

Ninety-one percent of voters in the Vines Center cast ballots for the House of Representatives 6th district candidate Ben Cline, who took the district, and 76 percent voted for Senate candidate Corey Stewart, who conceded the seat to incumbent Tim Kaine.

Liberty’s precinct had the lowest turnout in the 6th district. Ward 1, Precinct 5, which contains parts of Rivermont Avenue and Langhorne Road, had the best voter turnout — 65 percent of 1,656 registered voters turned out Nov. 6.

The 6th district has 53,239 registered voters, and 12,238 votes were cast for Stewart, 13,611 for Kaine and 993 for Matt Waters. The entire district had 32 write-ins.

Stewart had been trailing Kaine in the polls all summer and into the fall, and at times 18-points separated the candidates. Ten percent of on-campus voters cast their ballots for Kaine and 14 percent for Matt Waters. Two write-in votes came from the Vines Center.

Associated Press reported Republican Denver Riggleman of the 5th district took 53 percent of the vote over Leslie Cockburn, who won 46 percent of the registered voter ballots.

But across the country, Americans voted for governors, house representatives, senators and other public servant positions. The results were historic and sent Americans looking to the future.

Turmoil in Floridian election… again National Public Radio’s Mara Liasson said Nov. 4 that the Florida gubernatorial race would predict the 2020 presidential election. Democrat Andrew Gillum was 3.6 points up in the RealClear Politics poll on Nov. 5.

“Florida is the mother of all swing states, and Trump realistically can’t be re-elected without it. He needs to get (Republican Party) Rep. Ron DeSantis elected governor so that all the political power that comes with that office can be used on Trump’s behalf in 2020,” Liasson wrote.

On Nov. 7, it looked like DeSantis clinched the governor spot by 38,598 votes, Gillum conceded

the election Nov. 7 in the evening.

But the races were too close to call, rumblings of a recount started as votes continued to trickle in, closing the margin of difference within the margin of .5 percent which requires a recount. As of noon Nov. 10, all three Floridian races, U.S. senate, governor and agriculture commissioner, broke the .5 percent margin threshold, which meant the races had to be machine recounted statewide. The recount has to be completed by Nov. 15 by 3 p.m.

Because of the recount, Gillum withdrew his concession Nov. 10 If the Nov. 15 recount shows a winning margin of .25 percent or less, there will be a hand recount.

Floridians also voted to reinstate voting rights to convicted felons. This impacts 9 percent of residents who are old enough to vote and is likely to change the outcome of future elections in one of the last American swing states.

Arizona — Recounting

Kyrsten Sinema — Democrat * The races chosen to spotlight are a mix of the top states Liberty students reside in and other nationally notable contests.

Govenor Govenor Race Race Winners Winners Wisconsin

Tony Evers — Democrat

Kansas

Laura Kelly — Democrat

Illinois

JB Pritzker — Democrat

Michigan Gretchen Whitmer — Democrat

South Carolina

They are women — hear them roar

Henry McMaster — Republican

The 2018 election was also monumental for women and minorities. One hundred and twentyone women will sit in the 116th U.S. Congress.

Tennessee ushered in the state’s first female senator, Marsha Blackburn. Blackburn is a conservative and aggressive second amendment supporter.

Rashida Tlaib will serve Michigan’s 13th District as the first Palestinian-American woman in Congress.

Republican Kim Reynolds was voted the first woman to be governor-elect of Iowa. South Dakota also chose for the first time a female governor, Republican Kristi Noem.

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez was voted into Congress to serve New York’s 14th District. She is the youngest woman to sit in Congress at age 29 and an outspoken socialist.

Sharice Davids (D-Kansas) and Deb Haaland (D-New Mexico) are the first Native American women to serve in Congress.

The 116th Congress takes its seat Jan. 3, 2019.

Nancy Pelosi (D-California) is predicted to be Speaker of the House. Pelosi told NPR that at the top of the agenda for the new House is campaign finance reform.

Alaska

ABBATACOLA is the content editor.

Mike Dunleavy — Republican

* The races chosen to spotlight are a mix of the top states Liberty students reside in and other nationally notable contests.

Trump’s Trump’s Tweet Tweet @realDonaldTrump

“Those that worked with me in this incredible Midterm Election, embracing certain policies and principles, did very well. Those that did not, say goodbye! Yesterday was such a very Big Win, and all under the pressure of a Nasty and Hostile Media!”

6:07 AM - 7 Nov 2018

SPORTS

November 13, 2018

B1

Crushed by the Cavs Flames come up short against UVA 45-24 on chilly afternoon Emily Baker egbaker@liberty.edu

The Liberty Flames football team was put on ice by the University of Virginia Cavaliers in a 45-24 loss Saturday, Nov. 10 in UVA’s Scott Stadium.

Ryan Klinker | Liberty Champion

Redshirt junior cornerback Bejour Wilson grabbed an interception and ran for 33 yards.

Liberty struggled to keep up with the Cavaliers, despite scoring early in the game and racking up 354 total yards, compared to the Cavaliers 389 yards.

“I really thought we had a great chance to do some things,” Flames Head Coach Turner Gill said.

“We had some good situations. Unfortunately, we didn’t make enough plays.”

The Flames were far from alone in Scott Stadium, though.

Several seating sections were painted red with Flames students and fans and Liberty’s Spirit of the Mountain Marching Band competed with the larger Cavalier Marching Band.

Liberty received the first kickoff and struggled to gain momentum down the field until a breakthrough carry by redshirt sophomore running back Peytton Pickett. Pickett burst through the line, leaping over defenders and dodging tackles to earn 29 yards. Another Pickett run carried the Flames 18 yards to the Cavalier 7-yard line a couple of plays later.

Liberty chalked up the first points of the game on a 4thand-1 rush from redshirt junior Frankie Hickson. The offensive line forced its way into the end zone, making a path for the 5’8 running back to dive in.

Junior kicker Alexander Probert kicked the extra point home.

For Hickson, playing the Cavaliers and scoring a touchdown was something special.

“My sister graduated from UVA, so I got to see a lot of games from the stands,” Hickson said. “And now I’m actually standing on the field, and not only standing on the field, but playing with these guys. And not only playing, but scoring.

This season has been full circle for me. It’s truly a blessing.”

UVA responded with equal force, however, charging down the field for a 55-yard scoring drive that ended in a pass from junior quarterback Bryce Perkins to junior receiver Joe Reed.

Perkins proved to be great trouble for the Flames throughout

the game, dodging tackles and firing off pass after pass for two touchdowns, 168 passing yards and no sacks. “(Perkins) kept drives alive for the team with his feet,” redshirt junior cornerback Bejour Wilson said. “It was really difficult for us.”

The Flames failed to score on the next drive, turning the ball over on the Cavalier 40-yard line after a 51-yard field goal attempt from Probert fell short.

UVA took over on the 40 and continued its thus far unstoppable grind down the field. Its 66-yard drive was marked by

a gain of 26 yards, only to lose possession a few plays later when junior quarterback Buckshot Calvert threw an interception to Cavalier linebacker Elliott Brown.

“Defensively, Virginia did a lot of good things in their schemes,” Gill said. “I knew that going into the game they were going to do a lot of things postread, so they caught (Buckshot) in some things that he didn’t read very well. You have to learn from that as we continue to play very good football teams.

You have to be able to answer those things.”

The Flames couldn’t stop We had some good situations. the Cavaliers from moving Unfortunately, we didn’t make down the field for enough plays. another touch–Head Coach Turner Gill down, bringing the score to 21-7 after a 1-yard increasingly longer passes from run from senior running back Perkins and several vital tackles Jordan Ellis. that were nearly missed by the Liberty stalled out on their Flames. The drive came to an next drive and were forced to end when Perkins ran the ball kick a 37-yard field goal to in from the 13-yard line for a bring the score to 21-10. touchdown.

However, the Flames reOnce the Cavaliers earned gained some momentum when the lead in the end of the first Wilson snatched a pass from quarter, they never let go of it. Perkins out of the air and took The score going into the second off, dodging through the Cavaquarter was 14-7 Cavaliers, and lier offensive line for 33 yards. it only went up from there.

He was finally tackled on UVA’s The Flames started the sec- 7-yard line. ond quarter with an over-theshoulder grab from redshirt senior receiver BJ Farrow for See CRUSHED, B4

Underrated

Flames DII and DIII hockey teams own the ice Peter Gooch pgooch1@liberty.edu

When 3,000 fans rock Liberty University’s LaHaye Ice Center during the Flames Division I men’s hockey games, it may seem that those

Kevin Manguiob | Liberty News Service

SPEED — Freshman guard Darius McGhee drives to the basket.

Fending off the Bengals Flames defense leads the way to home opener victory over Maine Fort Kent John Simmons jasimmons2@liberty.edu

A common saying in sports is that defense wins championships. If that is the case, the Liberty men’s basketball team has reason to be excited for the 2018-19 season.

The Flames rode a dominating defensive effort to defeat the Maine Fort Kent Bengals, 89-40 at the Vines Center on Thursday night. Liberty surrendered only 19 second half points to the Bengals and earned their first win as a member of the Atlantic Sun Conference. The Flames’ defense was reminiscent of their defense that was ranked ninth in the nation in scoring defense last year.

Head Coach Ritchie McKay was pleased with his team’s attention to detail on the defensive end in the second half.

“I thought we looked a lot like we had practiced and a little bit like we had played in the second half,” McKay said. “(I’m) pleased with that for sure.”

Liberty’s first points of the night came from a 3-pointer by senior guard Lovell Cabbil Jr. from the left corner. When Cabbil hit the shot, he cemented himself in Flames history. He became the 26th player at

Liberty University to score 1,000 points.

He later finished the night with 17 points.

“I think it’s an honor” Cabbil said when asked what reaching this milestone meant to him. “Nobody thought I could play at this level. They said I was too small in high school. ... I would say it’s an honor to be remembered in a category like that.” Liberty struggled in the first half to establish an offensive rhythm, as Maine Fort Kent mixed up their defensive schemes between man, 2-3 zone and full court presses. The Flames turned the ball over 10 times in the first half, but they were able to stymie a Bengals offense that relied heavily on isolation plays. Liberty held a 29-21 advantage at the half.

After making some adjustments in the locker room, Liberty immediately began to impose their will on both ends of the floor, generating an extended 24-6 run in the first nine minutes of the second half.

In addition to Cabbil’s offensive output, junior forward Scottie James contributed a double-double with 11 points and 11 rebounds.

See FENDING, B2

nights are all the arena is made for. But it is made for much more than that.

LaHaye Ice Center houses the club sports offices and a weight room. It hosts figure skating competitions, intramural broomball games, free skating hours for the public, Liberty women’s hockey contests and other events for the Lynchburg community.

It is also the home of the men’s Division II and Division III hockey teams, who — like the DI squad — are pursuing excellence both on and off the ice as they enter the second half of the 2018-19 season.

Anchored by senior defenseman Jackson Roy and second-year head coach Ben Hughes, the Division II team stands at 7-3-1 after routing the University of Virginia, 6-1, Nov. 4.

“We have really high expectations just based off the personnel that we have,” Hughes said.

“We have a lot of depth. … In terms of executing, I think we’re getting there.”

Joel Isimeme | Liberty News Service

PASSION — Flames DII hockey strives to be the best.

See UNDERRATED, B2

High expectations Lacrosse prepares for a year to remember John Simmons jasimmons2@liberty.edu

“This is the best team in program history to date.”

This was the response of Liberty men’s lacrosse coach Kyle McQuillan when asked about what makes him excited about the upcoming 2018-19 season.

After a stellar 201718 season, which saw the Flames qualify for their first appearance in the MCLA Division I National Championships, Liberty is looking to establish themselves as a national contender worthy of recognition. Last spring, Liberty only graduated one senior, which leaves a steady core of reliable players for the upcoming year. McQuillan is glad to be in the

current situation.

“We’ve got a steady group of guys that we will rely heavily on to help transition the younger guys into the program,” McQuillan said.

That core of reliable upperclassmen includes senior defenseman Win McKeever, whom McQuillan has high praise for.

“He embodies to our younger guys how to play the game, but has the characteristics we are looking for (in our players) on and off the field,” McQuillan said.

Jessie Rogers | Liberty News Service

See HIGH, B3

HYPE — The lacrosse team is prepared for success.

sports

B2 | November 13, 2018 | Liberty Champion

Jessie Rogers | Liberty News Service

STUMBLE — Flames sophomore midfielder Mathew Zaczyk had two shots in the ASUN quarterfinal.

End of the line Flames soccer finds sudden end to 2018 season

Nate Montgomery nimontgomery@liberty.edu

Kevin Mendoza’s senior season came to a sudden end Friday, Nov. 2 when the men’s soccer team lost to Jacksonville University in the ASUN quarterfinals.

Mendoza had an astounding year with 12 goals, and he was named to the ASUN all-conference first team.

“Overall, I think it was a pretty good year – we overcame a lot of difficulties along the way,” Mendoza said.

Despite the tragic loss, there was still much to celebrate. The soccer team is graduating seven seniors, including Tresor Mbuyu, also named to the ASUN all-conference first team.

“All the seniors gave us something different,” Head Coach Jeff Alder said. “Some of them led with their words (and) some led with their actions. Now we are trying to build new leadership, and we feel like that leadership is plural.”

Alder stressed how much the team had to go through this season and how much it hurt to see it come apart at the end.

“We had to do a lot of traveling this year,” Alder said. “We had to play a lot of new teams this year, so there were a lot of unknowns and our guys were able to overcome a lot of those difficult challenges. But we still fell short of our goals.”

Mendoza came to Liberty from Mexico City, Mexico. He knew only basic English and that he would be playing soccer.

Now four years later he is graduating and leaving Liberty.

“Obviously it was hard -- all the

culture, the language, the food big hole to fill, especially on the ofand being away from my family,” fensive side of the field.

Mendoza said. “But over time I “There is a lot of talent here,” learned how to deal with it and I Mendoza said. “There is talent that overcame it.” can do the same as me or even more Mendoza said there is a lot that than that.” he loved about being in America Looking back over his career and at Liberty. at Liberty, Mendoza said he was “My favorite part of being here satisfied. is the friendships,” Mendoza said.

“It was a very good career for me “It’s going to be hard to separate here at Liberty,” Mendoza said. myself from everyone.”

“I remember all the freshmen that Coach Alder said for him, it was came into school with me and now I an extremely emotional final game just see them, senior year, and I feel and end of a year. like we achieved a lot of good things “As I went around the huddle and in our time with the program.” hugged each of the seniors,” Alder said. “It was a very emotional moment for all of us. I just told them MONTGOMERY is a sports how proud I was of them. We are reporter. very proud of our guys in terms of all the challenges we faced and their ability to overcome adversity and obstacles.”

For Mendoza, he plans to pursue professional soccer after graduation.

“Now, I’m getting ready for the MLS combine,” Mendoza said.

“Hopefully I can get drafted or I find another place to play.”

Jessie Rogers | Liberty News Service Mendoza DISAPPOINTMENT — The Flames season came to an and the other seniors leave a abrupt halt Saturday, Nov 2.

Ticket to Nationals out of 33 teams, their best placing since 2010.

Sophomore Noel Palmer placed 18th in the women’s race and earned all-region honors.

She is the first Lady Flame to earn all-region honors since Ednah Kurgat in 2015.

The Nationals are scheduled for Nov. 17 in Madison, Wisconsin.

Jacob Couch jtcouch@liberty.edu

COUCH is the asst. sports editor.

The Flames cross country teams competed in the NCAA Southeast Regional meet Friday, Nov. 9 on the LaVern Gibson Championship course.

Flames junior and Kenya native Azaria Kirwa finished 7th, likely punching his ticket to nationals. Kirwa was also named ASUN Conference Runner of the Year and Scholar Athlete of the Year.

The Flames men’s team finished sixth out of 33 teams which was their best finish in the last 10 years.

Only two men’s teams have ever placed higher than sixth in Flames program history.

The Lady Flames finished 13th

Kevin Manguiob | Liberty News Service IMPRESSIVE — Azaria Kirwa is a senior nursing student and full-time athlete.

Joel Isimeme | Liberty News Service CRUSH — DII hockey consistently gives Flames fans entertainment.

UNDERRATED continued from B1 The Division III team, meanwhile, has exceeded expectations under first-year head coach Jared Smith, winning its first eight games before tallying a tie and a loss versus Kennesaw Nov. 3 and 4.

Smith is ecstatic about setting a DIII program record with the most wins to begin a season, while the accumulative record of 8-1-1 at the midway point of the season is no reason for complaints, Smith said.

“Obviously, (I’m) very happy with the start,” Smith said.

The coaches pointed to the players who have stepped up in leadership — specifically Roy, team captain for the second straight season, and senior defenseman Dillon Brown, the Division III team captain — as huge factors in each teams’ chase for success.

“They’re the ones that are really building that culture in the locker room and making sure that everyone wants to be there,” Hughes said. “As you know with sports, too, it’s more fun and I think you do better when you want to be there. So that’s what we’re trying to accomplish, and I think we’re close.”

Hughes leans on Roy, who has collected four goals and five assists on the year, to help establish an uplifting environment and consistent excellence. It is a huge responsibility in Hughes’ mind, since the DII Flames have 11 freshmen on its roster.

“Just making sure guys are excited to come to the rink and excited to be on a team and excited to go on the road and things like that,” Hughes said. “Because I think once you bring that energy and positivity, it can have a dramatic impact on the team.”

FENDING continued from B1 After making some adjustments in the locker room, Liberty immediately began to impose their will on both ends of the floor, generating an extended 24-6 run in the first nine minutes of the second half. In addition to Cabbil’s offensive output, junior forward Scottie James contributed a double-double with 11 point and 11 rebounds.

McKay praised James for his stellar effort and noted that this is what he’s come to expect from the junior.

“I don’t worry a bit about his productivity,” McKay said. “He’s an absolute warrior.”

While there are areas Smith wants to challenge his squad to improve in, such as avoiding penalties, he has been extremely pleased with how his captains and upperclassmen have influenced the DIII team.

“They just seem to be doing a good job with just setting the tone for the team,” Smith said. “Practices and off-ice, just making sure everyone’s showing up. … They’re doing a good job just preparing the guys and giving them a lot of confidence out there.”

The early on-ice success of the DIII Flames is significant as they attempt to finish in the top 10 of the ACHA standings in order to qualify for the South Regional tournament in March. If they end in the top four at Regionals, then they will move on to the Division III National Championships.

But before then, the DIII Flames will look to get back in the win column when they go to the University of Georgia Nov. 30.

Hughes said he especially wants to make sure Liberty DII hockey does not get caught looking too far ahead towards an appearance at Nationals, which would require advancing out of the Southeast Regionals that take place March 1-3.

“That’s something we’re trying to create, is a culture of just showing up each day to learn and get a little better each day,” Hughes said.

The team will be playing their next four games on road, including a matchup against the University of Maryland Nov. 17. The DII Flames return home, to the LaHaye Ice Center, to play Virginia Tech Dec. 1.

GOOCH is a sports reporter.

While the starters like Cabbil and James contributed their fair share, the bench was also impressive. The Flames bench outscored the Bengals 40-16, and all 11 players who stepped on the court for the Flames scored. Also, the bench contributed to the defensive intensity, forcing the Bengals to shoot contested, low-percentage shots with little time left on the shot clock.

One surprise of the night was the fact that junior guard Georgie Pacheo-Ortiz started the game on the bench. McKay said it was because Pacheo-Ortiz did not fully study the scouting report and was subsequently disciplined. It ended Pacheo-Ortiz’s streak of 70 consecutive game starts, but the junior did not allow that to affect his attitude on the court.

“I think I brought energy off the bench,” Pacheo-Ortiz said. “I think I just played my role. Just trying to be a leader. I know I didn’t start, but I started to be a leader off the bench.”

The staunch defense, ability to adjust on the fly and the unselfishness of the players are good signs in the early going for the Flames, who have a difficult schedule to face. Liberty will have three games against Power 5 schools in UCLA, Alabama and Vanderbilt. The Flames will play Trevecca Nazarene Tuesday, Nov. 13, at 8:30 p.m. following the Lady Flames home opener versus Virginia Tech at 6:30 p.m.

Kevin Manguiob | Liberty News Service SIMMONS is a sports

DUNK — Senior Keenan Gumbs ignites the crowd.

reporter.

sports

Liberty Champion | November 13, 2018 | B3

Freezing Cole

Hockey sophomore making a name for himself Jared Dean jsdean@liberty.edu

It was another cold winter day in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada as a boy laced his skates and headed to his backyard to practice his moves that he dreamed to one day bring into the National Hockey League (NHL).

This is the dream of many young boys in Canada as hockey is declared to be the national sport of winter there. Rinks in backyards are not an uncommon sight. Sophomore right wing Cole Gammer recalls going into his backyard frequently to play the game he loves.

“I always had a backyard rink growing up,” Gammer said. “I remember going out there and getting to beat my younger brother up.”

Gammer has been on skates almost his entire life. Gammer believes he found a new

identity since coming to Liberty and it is not only about hockey.

“I think growing up, hockey was my life; the NHL was what I was always thinking about,” Gammer said. “Since coming to Liberty, I am not just Cole the hockey player — I am Cole the Christian.”

Head Coach Kirk Handy believes Gammer is the exact player that he looks for in his guys, someone who fits the mold of what he tries to implement into the team.

“Cole is a real energetic guy – he really embodies the culture of our program,” Handy said.

Gammer now sees his life through what God may have in store for him down the road.

He believes his faith has only grown since coming to Liberty.

“Before coming here, I was very set on playing overseas or continuing my career,”

Nathan Spencer | Liberty News Service SKID — Cole Gammer is originally from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

Gammer said. “I think that now since being here I am more open to seeing what God has in store for me. … This is the first time in my life where I have trusted God with his plan for my life.”

Handy first took note of his skills when looking at Gammer during recruiting, but then he started to notice how he could be a part of the Flames culture off the ice.

“He was a guy who just loved Jessie Rogers | Liberty News Service Liberty when he came down for a visit” Handy said. “He liked the ICY — Gammer encourages his team on and off the ice. feel of it and the opportunity to takes a lot of extra effort to balance hockey be a part of the Liberty culture.”

Gammer had a breakout performance in and school.

“It is important to just have that work ethLiberty’s second game against Stony Brook scoring four goals. He said he owes every- ic,” Gammer said. “ … You can’t be lethargic or lazy or anything, you have to be there 100 thing to his teammates.

“In terms of my personal performance percent dialed in every day.”

Liberty made an impact on Gammer early on Saturday, my linemates were awesome too,” Gammer said. “Quinn Ryan and Brock on he remembers the first practice being Thompson are both really lighting it up right something special.

“I remember my very first practice with now, and it just ended up on my stick.”

He admitted that his performance was the team,” Gammer said. “Everyone finished something that he did not see coming and practice (and as) I am getting ready to leave describes the experience as “surreal.” Gam- the ice … everyone is taking a knee at cenmer also acknowledged there are areas of his ter ice. That is when it hit me. It was almost emotional just how special this school is and game that he would like to work on.

“I want to work on my consistency,” Gam- how everyone is coming together under one mer said. “Some nights I can play great and cause.”

Gammer knew from his first visit to Libin other games I can be flat. I think that as a guy on our team that is high energy, I try and erty, he came across something special.

“At the end of the trip, my dad and I were get the guys going. I think that it is important for high energy guys to be more consistent.” talking about it and praying about it and I was Handy believes consistency comes with thinking, ‘Why wouldn’t God want me to hard work, something Gammer seems to be come to this school?’” Gammer said.

Gammer has no regrets about choosing to more than capable of doing.

“Consistency from him I think means play hockey at Liberty. He fully embraced beputting the work in day in and day out to be ing a Flame.

“I have jumped into this decision with both successful,” Handy said. “It is difficult with his academic schedule he sometimes has to feet,” Gammer said. “I have been fully comdo stuff the other guys don’t have to do. ... mitted to it since I decided to come here, and He definitely has to come in readier than the I have never looked back. It was easily one of other guys to come in and be ready to com- the best decisions of my life.” pete day in and day out.”

Gammer is a nursing major and knows it DEAN is a sports reporter.

Jacob Couch jtcouch@liberty.edu

Jessie Rogers | Liberty News Service CHECK — The Flames were second in the Northwest Division of the SELC last year.

HIGH continued from B1 Last year, McKeever was a steady presence on defense, guiding the Flames to a 9-6 regular season record and a second-place finish in the Northwest Division of the SELC. Furthermore, last season was highlighted by an upset of eventual national champion Michigan State, which gave the Spartans their only loss of the entire season. McKeever believes a statement win like that will be a huge confidence booster for the Flames once the season begins. “(It shows) we can hang with the top dogs, and we’re here to show how strong we can be,” McKeever said about what that win means to the team.

However, the success that the Flames had last year is just that: last year’s success. On top of injuries and his players sustaining academic eligibility, McQuillan believes being content with last year’s accomplishments could be a big obstacle to overcome for the Flames.

“We cannot rest in that, and we must con-

tinue to push ourselves,” McQuillan said.

McKeever, who will also be a captain for the Flames this year, is aware of the responsibilities that come with his role, but is ready to accept them heading into the season. Last year, the Flames lost a heartbreaking, 11-10 overtime quarterfinal contest against topranked Chapman, which far exceeded the expectations placed on them. He believes that the biggest challenge will be getting Liberty over the next challenge of establishing national prominence.

Nevertheless, McKeever is optimistic and has high hopes for the Flames.

“Reaching the national championship and wining it is our goal,” McKeever said.

Liberty will have a daunting schedule to face once the regular season commences on Feb. 16. Highlighted by away games against perennial contenders Michigan State and Grand Canyon, the Flames will not have an easy road to travel to reach their goal of winning a national championship.

SIMMONS is a sports reporter.

In the spirit of high school football playoffs…

Is it the Friday night lights or the fans screaming as the boys run through the banner? Is it the scent of freshly cut grass or the cheerleaders wearing the jersey number of their favorite player on their eye black? Whatever the reason, and there are many more, high school football has the potential to be the greatest time in a boy’s life.

So why high school football? Why not high school baseball, basketball or soccer?

If you have ever attended a Friday night football game, you understand the amazing culture that goes along with the bright lights, teenage boys and cheering fans.

The sport brings the community together with a common purpose: to cheer the boys on to victory.

It does not matter if disputes or disagreements scatter around town, all the distractions get pushed aside when tailgating time approaches. When the grills come out from the beds of pickup trucks and a player’s parent starts barbecuing, earthly cares get pushed aside until Saturday morning.

As the national anthem plays and the players sway from left to right with nervous anticipation, a dad smiles from the bleachers and puts his arm around his wife, remembering the days when he was the starting quarterback and she was the cutest cheerleader.

As the players line up for opening kickoff, they hit their helmets, hoping for and dreading the collision soon to transpire.

Coming from a former high school quarterback, the greatest vibe you feel each Friday night is when coach calls a play action pass.

For those unsure of what a play action pass is, I will explain. It is when the quarterback takes the snap from under center

and extends the ball to the outstretched arms of the running back. The quarterback pulls the ball away from the running back at the last second and hides the ball.

That is when it happens.

The crowd looks on as the linebackers tackle the running back, believing that they have stuffed him for no gain. But then the fans realize the quarterback still has the ball and is pulling up to launch the ball deep down field to a wide-open receiver.

A low roar rumbles from the crowd as the ball spins through air. The low roar rises to a deafening eruption as the receiver catches the pass and sprints to the end zone, arm raised, pointing to the sky in an uncontainable adrenaline rush.

The parents and fans exchange high fives, not caring whether or not they have met the person they are now celebrating with.

After the game, the exhausted players make their way to where their parents wait to give them hugs and congratulatory statements. As the players socialize, cheerleaders quickly approach to give bashful side hugs and girly sounding “great games.”

Following the bus ride home, some of the players grab a late-night slice of pizza with teammates while others shower and then hop in the truck with their dads to go eat burgers and fries while rehashing the game.

In the morning the starters wake up feeling as if they were in a car wreck. But they wouldn’t trade it. They wouldn’t trade it for the world because they had just lived a dream the night before. Fall high school football under the lights.

COUCH is the asst. sports editor.

sports

B4 | November 13, 2018 | Liberty Champion

Heart & height Men’s basketball team features players ranging from 5’9” to 7’2” Nathaniel Chambers nrchambers@liberty.edu

Ryan Klinker | Liberty Champion FORCE — Frankie Hickson ran in two touchdowns in Saturday’s game against UVA.

Running wild Flames junior running back showcasing talent in first half of 2018 season Nate Montgomery nimontgomery@liberty.edu

Flames junior running back Frankie Hickson has stepped up this season and taken control of the running game for Liberty’s explosive offense.

So far on the 2018 season, Hickson has recorded 771 rushing yards and 10 rushing touchdowns, including a couple long runs to seal the game against Idaho State earlier in the season.

“I feel like I’ve done what the team needs me to do,” Hickson said. “Whatever capacity I can help in, whether that is to be a leader or to take a back seat, whether its zero carries or 25 carries.”

Hickson said the team functions on a next person up offense. Any one of the backs could be called on at any given time.

“We are a family; this whole football team is a family,” Hickson said. “We believe in each other 100 percent. To know that we have depth and people that we can trust in no matter what is really amazing.”

Even more than on-field production, Hickson has stepped into a role as a role model for some of the younger running backs on the team, like Frank Boyd.

CRUSHED continued from B1 The momentum carried Hickson the last 7 yards for Liberty’s second touchdown, followed by another successful Probert kick to bring the score to 21-17 with two minutes left in the half.

The Cavaliers were not done for the half, however. Liberty fought with all its might and managed to hold UVA out of the end zone for the final two minutes before halftime, forcing the Cavaliers to kick a 33yard field goal.

The score at halftime was 24-17 with the Cavaliers set to receive the kickoff.

For the Flames, halftime was a period of adjustment.

“We added some calls we didn’t have in the first half and we made some adjustments to some things we had run previously in earlier games that we hadn’t planned for this particular game,” Gill said. “I thought our defense made some different calls and made some adjustments to help ourselves out, and I thought it worked.”

Their adjustments made a difference in the second half, but only after a huge 90-yard kickoff return from Reed for yet another Cavalier touch-

Boyd is a freshman on the team and has had some luck finding the endzone this season.

He has scored three times already with three games still to go in this season.

“Frankie has really taken me under his wing,” Boyd said. “I’m just watching and learning every day.”

Team captain Antonio Gandy-Golden loves when Hickson is getting the ball on offense.

“We are comfortable relying on our backs,” Gandy-Golden said. “We like when the ball is in their hands. We can get a breather and they get to make things happen.”

The Liberty offense is averaging nearly 37 points per game, thanks in part to the dominant running game.

“It’s fun to watch the offense work,” Isaac Steele, linebacker, said. “To do what they’re doing at the FBS level is really something to watch.”

Looking back on the season so far, Hickson is both excited with what Liberty has done and disappointed at the games that they feel they let slip away.

See RUNNING, B5

down. Scott Stadium was deafening as UVA fans went wild when Reed flew down the field.

Liberty refused to fall behind, however, and clawed its way to another touchdown, this one run in

by Pickett. The score rose to 31-24 after Probert kicked the extra point.

The Flames held on and fought to stay within one touchdown of the Cavaliers for much of the second half, but couldn’t keep up after two more interceptions from Buckshot and two more UVA touchdowns.

The Flames lost a vital possession when a 4th-and-1 pass from Buckshot to junior receiver Antonio Gandy-Golden was swatted down by Cavalier safety Brenton Nelson. The failed play came after Gill gave Buckshot the option to pass or run the ball for the conversion on the Flames own 14-yard line.

“This game does not define him,” Hickson said. “This game does not define how good of a quarterback he is. I think as an offense we put him in some difficult situations that kind of forced him to do certain things that he probably wouldn’t have done under his own power. That being said, it happened, we move on and go forward and start preparing for Auburn.”

The Cavaliers easily took the ball home for a 14-yard touchdown

The Liberty Men’s Basketball team opened its season Thursday, Nov. 8 against the University of Maine at Fort Kent. During that game, something that struck the eye was the size difference between a couple players on the team. Between their tallest player and shortest players is nearly a foot-and-a-half difference.

Brendan Newton, a redshirt freshman center, is listed at 7-foot-2, 235 pounds. Zach Farquhar is a senior guard listed at 5-foot-9 and Darius McGhee is a freshman guard listed at 5-foot-9, though Head Coach Ritchie McKay says he is 5-foot-8.

“They compete every play and they work hard,” Newton said of Farquhar and McGhee.

He said their heart and hustle make up for their size. Newton said they can run and they work their hearts out. Because of this, sometimes you don’t even notice the size difference because they are making their presence felt on the court despite their size.

Diving on the floor, taking charges – things that can change the nature of the game – is how McGhee and Farquhar adds to the dynamic of the team, according to Farquhar.

While they lack in size, the Flames can use that to their advantage, using McGhee and Farquhar as decoys and for the scrappy plays needed at certain points in their games.

“I’m trying to mainly lead by example” Farquhar said. “I think for a lot of people it’s easy to tell younger guys how to do it and what to do, but it’s another thing to be able to show them how to do it, just by your habits every day, how you live your life on and off the court.”

Farquhar does not let his size be a burden but uses it to his advantage in everything he does. He wants to be an example on the court, showing hustle and good habits, being a light in everyday life. Farquhar played for Cincinnati and came to Liberty his sophomore year.

On the taller side of the spectrum, Newton is one of the taller men’s basketball players in the country, and he said his size can be an intimidating factor, but it can also be used to be a tall, physical force.

“I’m only able to strike fear if I’m able to compete and get play time,” Newton said. “ … That’s all up to me – it’s not the coaches – it’s up to my buy-in and how well I’m competing. So, I think if I’m able to do that, I definitely think that’s going to make an impact.”

See HEART, B5

Leah Stauffer | Liberty News Service

GRADIENT — Zach Farquhar (left) is tied for shortest player on the team, while Brendan Newton (center) is the tallest player on the team.

drive, extending their lead to 38-24.

The Flames couldn’t make up the lost points for the rest of the game, which went back and forth until another UVA touchdown at the beginning of the fourth quarter. UVA’s touchdown was the last scoring drive of the game, which ended with a final score of 45-24.

Hickson said the Flames have to take the good and the bad from their loss.

“You can take good and bad from everything,” Hickson said. “The good, obviously, we put up points in the first half and we were able to score. Offensively we were able to move the ball up and down the field all day and we were able to run the ball successfully. But you also see that offensively we need work. We can always get better and improve and trying to get better every single day is our goal from here on out.”

The Flames are anticipating another tough road game Saturday, Nov. 17, when they travel to take on Auburn. Their next home game is Saturday, Nov. 24, in Williams Stadium at 2 p.m. when they host the New Mexico State Aggies who they lost to 49-41 earlier in the season.

BAKER is the sports editor.

TURNOVER — Flames junior quarterback Buckshot Calvert threw three interceptions.

Ryan Klinker | Liberty Champion SHUT DOWN — Antonio Gandy-Golden was held to two receptions.

Ryan Klinker| Liberty Champion

Ryan Klinker | Liberty Champion EFFORT — Flames running back Frankie Hickson fights for yardage.

sports

Liberty Champion | November 13, 2018 | B5 Allison Heise | Liberty Champion

Ryan Klinker | Liberty Champion Kevin Manguiob | Liberty News Service

FALL SPORTS

Ryan Klinker | Liberty Champion

Andy Stanley | NCAA

TOP LEFT — Redshirt junior running back Frankie Hickson scored two touchdowns in Saturday’s game at UVA. | TOP RIGHT — The Lady Flames volleyball team is playing in the ASUN quarterfinal game against Stetson at Kennesaw Thursday, Nov. 15. | CENTER — Senior guard Keenan Gumbs transferred to Liberty this season. | BOTTOM LEFT — Junior wing Brock Thompson attempts a shot. | BOTTOM RIGHT — The men’s cross country team competed in the NCAA southeast regional meet Friday, Nov. 9.

RUNNING continued from B4 ”I think this has been a successful season in that we have come out every week with a chance to win and came out prepared to win regardless of our opponent,” Hickson said.

“Could we be more successful? Yes. Did we leave some games out there this season?

Yes. But we still have three games left and these are huge games for Liberty to show who we are.”

Frankie Hickson has stepped up this season and taken control of the running game for Liberty’s explosive offense.

Hickson said that the team functions on a next person up offense. Any one of the backs

could be called on at any given time.

“We are a family, this whole football team is a family,” Hickson said. “We believe in each other 100 percent. To know that we have depth and people that we can trust in no matter what is really amazing.”

Even more than on-field production, Hickson has started to step into a role as a role model for some of the younger running backs on the team, namely Frank Boyd.

“Frankie has really taken me under his wing,” Boyd said. “I’m just watching and learning every day.”

The Flames will return to action Saturday, Nov. 17 versus Auburn at 4 p.m.

MONTGOMERY is a sports reporter.

Leah Stauffer | Liberty News Service HIGH HOPES — The Flames are hoping to reach the NCAA tournament in March.

HEART continued from B4

Kevin Manguiob | Liberty News Service LEADER — Frankie Hickson has become a crucial leader for the Flames.

Newton, whose parents were both liberty graduates, redshirted last year, so he had a year on the bench, being able to sit back and learn from the team. He said he learned a lot and that it helped him out mentally.

“For me, sometimes, it’s just slowing down,” Newton said. “That’s the biggest thing I had to learn… One play at a time.

Don’t let everything come to you so fast. You know, just let the game come to you.”

And while Newton is not sure how much, if any, play time he will get this year, he is ready for every opportunity that comes his way. He is working toward getting himself in a prime condition for playing.

As a whole, the team is ready for this season. They want to get past the heartbreaking end to last season and get themselves in a good position to win the Atlantic Sun Conference in their first year in the conference.

Newton said the in and out of conference schedule will be a great challenge and test for the team this year, with teams like Florida Gulf Coast and Lipscomb bringing in different competition for the team this year.

“Every game is as important as the next, especially for us and what we’re trying to do,” Farquhar said. “We don’t wanna look over anybody or underestimate any of the

opponents, just because we know that in order to win a championship you gotta beat the best in order to be the best. So, we’re just trying to get the most that we can out of every opponent for sure.”

The team is ready for a new test this year, facing many new teams both in and out of conference. They also have the same end goal as last year, wanting to win a conference championship and make it to the Big Dance.

“Well I think as a team, collectively, obviously the end goal is to win a championship,” McGhee said. “But I think for us we take it one day at a time. I think if we can improve on getting better one day at a time and trusting the process, that our end result will be what we want.”

While the team hopes to win an ASUN Championship, they know that it cannot happen today. The Flames will take it one day at a time and not take any teams for granted.

They are looking to make it to the NCAA Tournament in March for the first time since 2013, when they won their last Big South Conference tournament.

The Flames quest to win the conference tournament and return to the Big Dance continues tonight, Nov. 13, at home against Trevecca Nazarene at 8:30.

CHAMBERS is a sports reporter.

B6 | November 13, 2018 | Liberty Champion

Project Zero Students join efforts to end local homelessness Kharen Martinez kmartinez6@liberty.edu

Last semester Caleb Fitzpatrick, a senior at Liberty University, started to get more involved with the community of Lynchburg as he ran for student body president. Through his efforts, he realized the vastness of the homeless population, so he decided to do something about it.

“The goal is to get to a zero percent homelessness rate in the city of Lynchburg by 2020, and past that to maintain that zero percent rate,” Fitzpatrick said. “It is bare bones at this point, but that is the vision.”

Fitzpatrick started forming a team of people. He talked to The Lighthouse Community Center, a ministry that helps homeless people in Lynchburg, and then Project Zero was born. The idea is that churches would collaborate with this non-profit and by giving $550 per month they could cover the cost of living for one homeless person.

“Being a citizen of Lynchburg, I have fallen in love with it, but I have also seen the hurt,” Tessa Wienholt, associate director of Project Zero said.

“When there is over 100 churches in Lynchburg, the amount of hurt that is here is a problem.”

Wienholt said this is an opportunity for her to give back to the city where she has lived in for the last four years.

Getting to meet people around her and better serve them.

“For students who live on campus, it is hard to remember that there is a whole community outside of Liberty,” Wienholt said. “I hope that when we start reaching out to the student body, they would see it as something that is urgent and necessary.”

Fitzpatrick said it is important to serve community, and that is the motivation for creating this project for homeless people to have clothing, food and a roof over their heads.

“It feels sometimes as if everybody wanted to be the hero, and we lose sight of the fact that is not about who gets the credit,” Fitzpatrick said. “It is about making sure that each and every person has their necessities covered.”

Even though both Fitzpatrick and Wienholt are graduating soon, their hope is to set a system in which other student leaders can come and help Project Zero continue their labor of eradi-

Kharen Martinez | Liberty Champion

VISION — Fitzpatrick (pictured above) started Project Zero to end homelessness in Lynchburg.

cating and preventing homelessness in Lynchburg.

“I think that the cool part about being part of the founding team is that we are able to recruit people that are going to be here longer and who have leadership developing skills,” Wienholt said.

Fitzpatrick hopes this project could open the eyes of the community at Liberty to get involved beyond Liberty’s campus with Lynchburg’s community and necessities. He points out that the 24.8 percent of people in Lynchburg live below the poverty line, and 30 percent of those people are children.

As Project Zero finishes establishing its roots and paper work, Fitzpatrick said he would advise students to get involved, meet people outside Liberty and serve in the organizations around Lynchburg.

“If you just look, there are so many organizations that need help, and that would gladly take help, Fitzpatrick said.

“If you just say you want to help, no one is going to say no because everyone needs help.”

MARTINEZ is a feature reporter.

Kharen Martinez | Liberty Champion

EFFORT — Wienholt (pictured above) has seen the needs of the local homeless in her community.

Virginia Christmas

Spectacular

feature

A piece of home Students who stay at LU for Thanksgiving find ways to celebrate Rachel McClamroch rkmcclamroch6@liberty.edu

Thanksgiving is coming, bringing rest from school and a day of gorging on a feast. Most students will gather around the turkey, cranberry sauce and sweet potato casserole with their families and remind each other to be grateful for life’s gifts.

But what about those who are not going home for the holidays?

Evangelism professor Dr. David Wheeler experienced this himself when he was in school in Texas.

“We used to live 15 hours away from home, when I was in seminary,” Wheeler said. “And I would call home and the family would all be together and they’d be out playing football. … They’d all be at my grandmother’s house … and here I was, sitting in Texas with nobody — (just) me and my wife.”

Wheeler remembered how much it meant when neighbors or acquaintances would open their home to him and his wife on Thanksgiving, and he decided to pass it on when he came to work at Liberty University.

With a few exceptions when they were out of town, the Wheelers have hosted students for Thanksgiving for about a decade.

This week is when Wheeler said he will announce the invitation to his classes.

“So many of the kids are like, ‘Does he mean that?’”

Wheeler said. “Yeah, I mean that.”

Junior Lexi Fountain is spending her first Thanksgiving away from family.

Because she is a member of the marching band, Fountain must be at Liberty for rehearsal Friday, Nov. 23. She is also planning to use the first couple days of the holiday to log some practicum hours. It would be a tight fit if she were to go all the way home to Illinois.

Her other bandmates are finding ways to stay close as well.

“We have a lot of family that are coming here for Thanksgiving,” Fountain said. “So instead of (the band members) going home, (their family) is coming here. And one family, from Ohio, they are opening their home to about 10 band members who didn’t have any plans for Thanksgiving.”

For her part, Fountain and some other friends will be at her boyfriend’s sister’s house in Pennsylvania, where she also spent the previous Easter.

“I haven’t been home in 11 months,” Fountain said. “The last time was Christmas last year. I now have done two holidays with people I don’t know or didn’t know and haven’t been home with my family.”

Fountain said her boyfriend’s sister is a great friend and she is excited to see her, but there are also some

Victoria McCoy vjmccoy1@liberty.edu

With Christmas just around the corner, holiday festivities have begun and the spirit of the most wonderful time of the year is becoming contagious. One of Lynchburg’s most anticipated Christmas traditions is the Virginia Christmas Spectacular (VCS), hosted

by Thomas Road Baptist Church every year. This year, the show will be focusing on the small town of Love Valley, a town that bursts with Christmas spirit. Full of familiar holiday tunes, extravagant dancing and beautiful lights, the VCS never fails to bring the joy of Christmas to its audiences.

MCCOY is a feature reporter.

ShowTimes Friday, November 30th at 7 p.m.

Saturday, December 1st at 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Sunday, December 2nd at 4 p.m.

photo provided

WELCOME — Dr. Wheeler opens home to students.

Photos provided

traditions from home that she will miss. This includes her dad’s dumplings and the amount of family she would normally get to see.

“Usually Caleb [Fountain’s boyfriend] and I have three Thanksgivings because we have one with his family and one with my mom and one with my dad,” Fountain said. “ … It was like a week of Thanksgivings and we would get to see everyone.”

This Thanksgiving will not have the familiarity the holidays have had in years past, but Fountain looks forward to going home for Christmas.

There are many ways students can spread hospitality during the holidays, either through bringing friends home or by going out into the community. Students can bring meals to police departments, fire departments, or food pantries for the homeless like Lynchburg Daily Bread. Non-perishable goods can be donated in the many food drive boxes scattered around campus this time of year.

Wheeler said that he considered inviting others in as part of the Liberty spirit.

“I want our students to know they’re loved,” Wheeler said. “I don’t want them to feel alone. They should never feel alone on this campus. The community of Christ should never let people feel alone like that.”

MCCLAMROCH is a feature reporter.

Tickets can be purchased by calling 888-244-2178 or by visiting trbc.brushfire.com/vcs/ ranging from $8 to $18.

feature

Liberty Champion | November 13, 2018 | B7

Being Catholic at Liberty Catholic students share challenges and experiences surrounding college life sometimes be tense for Catholic students, because they get asked many more questions by their peers about their faith, and sometimes feel as if they are being critiWhitney Velez, a high school junior, alcized. In one instance, most immediately knew Liberty was the students came up to school for her – but she was not prepared for Velez to tell her that the unfamiliar culture and bombardment of Catholics value works questions that comes with being a Catholic at over faith. a school founded on Protestant values. Velez “We believe whatever is one of many Catholic students at Liberty, works you do mean nothand she personally found the aesthetics of ing if there’s no faith beworship and preaching very foreign. hind it,” Velez said. “So, “The first couple times I went to Convoall these traditions mean cation, I was like: ‘what’s going on?’” Velez nothing if there’s no faith — Whitney Velez behind them. It may seem said. “I didn’t know the songs. Freshman year, it was a culture shock.” weird to you that I have Today, Velez incorporates many traditionashes on my forehead, ally-Protestant customs into how she pracbut it’s just me professing tices her faith, but the roots of her beliefs are have never been to a Catholic church where my faith.” still Catholic. Probably the biggest surprise there is any worshipping of anything other Frank explained that she loves Campus to Velez was how many people either did not than Jesus Christ.”

Community and the worship in Convocaunderstand Catholicism or criticized her for Frank and Velez explained that civil con- tion. She has lots of Protestant friends who versations about the have challenged and stretched her with good practices of each de- conversation about her faith. According to nomination could lead Velez, The main struggle for Catholic stuto better understanding dents seems to be having to justify their faith between peers. Frank so often. said she gladly welcomed “All this time we’re spending arguing questions, but she has back-and-forth is pushing people away from also been in situations God because they’re not seeing the unity and where friends distance love of Christ,” Velez said. themselves or peers have Velez welcomes students asking her about negative responses. For Catholicism. She explained the major learnVelez, it is easy to prac- ing curve she had when coming to Liberty tice Catholicism day was very similar. In her perspective, reconto day, but it requires ciliation can be made when both parties enindependence of faith ter conversations with curiosity and respect. to commit to holy days “It’s not Protestant versus Catholike Ash Wednesday lic, it’s the gospel versus Satan,” and Lent.

Velez said. “We need to remember “It’s not like I walk that we’re all on the same team.” around campus with a sign on my head, but I have before, on Ash Wednesday,” Velez said.

Lorena Rivera | Liberty Champion Velez and Frank explained that this day can DELOGLOS is a feature reporter.

RELIGIOUS — St. Thomas More Roman Catholic Church is one of the many Catholic churches in Lynchburg.

Olivia Deloglos odeloglos@liberty.edu

not being a Christian.

“In my head, there’s not a huge divide, so when I came here, and some people were aggressively angry about me being Catholic, that was a wake-up call for me,” Velez said.

“For me and my friends, we all read the same gospel, we all follow the same rules, (and) we all love the same Jesus.”

For Sofia Frank, a sophomore and founding member of the Catholic club on campus, she found that telling her friends she was Catholic resulted in some reactions of surprise and confusion.

“In my experience, there are a lot of misconceptions about the Catholic faith,” Frank said. “ … In a general sense, people don’t think Catholics are Christians. From what I believe and what I see other Christians believe, (Christianity and Catholicism) matches.”

Still, Frank noted that there seems to be many misconceptions about Catholicism that can be cleared up by simply asking re-

spectful questions.

“A lot of people ask me if we worship Mary,” Frank said. “ … I understand where they’re getting it from, but that is not true. I

“

All this time we’re spending arguing back-and-forth is pushing people away from God.

Erik Flores | Liberty news service

SHOTS — Student nurses give injections during the 2018 Health Expo in October.

The first laser program of its kind in Lynchburg

Fighting the flu

Student Health Center and Wellness Initiatives gives tips for avoiding the flu Jessica Hales jdhales3@liberty.edu

This time of year when assignments are stacking up and students are losing steam, the last thing they need is to catch the flu.

The Student Health Center and Wellness Initiatives share tips and guidelines for students this flu season.

Dr. Keith Anderson of the Health and Wellness Center said washing hands is the best way to prevent spreading the flu virus.

“You can be healthy but have poor hygiene and still catch the flu,” Anderson said.

Anderson said some people believe since they are healthy they are safe from the flu virus, but he claims this is false.

Anderson said what people fail to realize is that flu season starts in September but lasts up to the end of March. Anderson said the Health center on campus sees a rapid growth in flu cases when students return from holidays such as Thanksgiving, Christmas

and Spring break.

If, for whatever reason, students are unable to go to the clinic on campus, there are several other walk-in clinics in town including the Ruth Brooks Free Clinic. The Ruth Brooks Free Clinic operates for people who do not have health insurances.

Nurse practitioner Ruth Patterson said students often underestimate the flu and think they are still well enough to go to class. Patterson said in order to help prevent the flu, if infected, is to stay away from people to stop the spreading of germs.

“College students are the most vulnerable to get the flu,” Patterson said. “They do everything together such as eating together and riding in the same vehicle.”

Patterson said even if students opt out of a flu shot, there is always a high concern of who they come in contact with. Patterson agreed with Anderson that washing hands is the best way to stop the spreading of viruses.

“You might ache at the

sight of an injection, but you will ache even worse if you did not get the shot,” Patterson said.

Hill City Pharmacist Nikki Kaur said the flu is a viral infection with many strands and is spread by contact. Kaur said each year researchers attempt to pin point which strand will be most present that upcoming year and they make the vaccine.

What people fail to realize about this virus is that it can be life threatening. According to Kaur, 80,000 people died of the flu in 2017.

To avoid this “debilitating” virus Patterson urges students to make the right decision and get the vaccine to prevent anyone else from getting infected.

“You can get it, and you can give it,” Patterson said.

The Flu Clinic will be providing flu shots for free on Nov. 14 and Dec. 4 from 12-3 p.m. at Montview.

HALES is a feature reporter.

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FEATURE

B8

Photo Provided

HOME —(From left to right) Byron, Melissa and Justin Davis know the importance of family, especially during the holidays .

November 13, 2018

Photo Provided

REUNION — Davis founded Operation H.O.M.E. to help bring service members home for Christmas.

Home for the holidays Alumnus Byron Davis founds organization to pay airfare for service members

Esther Eaton eeaton@liberty.edu

Sitting at the worn dining room table of his Forest farmhouse, Byron Davis recalled a phone conversation with the parents of a soldier.

“Mike is on his way to Afghanistan, and he didn’t have any money to come home before he left,” Davis said, paraphrasing the parents. “We would’ve never been able to see him before he left.”

Davis’ ministry provided the plane ticket, and the soldier surprised his parents for Christmas. When Davis finished the story, he paused.

“Those types of situations make what we do that much more urgent,” Davis said.

In 2015 Davis’ son, then a soldier in Alaska, told Davis that many service members receive leave for holidays but cannot afford to get home. During holidays, Davis said tickets average $1,300.

In response, Davis and Melissa, 1986 and 1988 Liberty graduates respectively, founded the ministry Operation H.O.M.E. to raise money to cover the travel costs of enlisted service members who could not afford to travel home for the holidays.

“Once we knew the strain on the soldiers

it broke our heart,” Davis said.

Operation H.O.M.E. stands for “Helping Our Military’s Enlisted.” The nonprofit prioritizes military members who have not seen their families in two or more years and have extenuating circumstances such as ill family members. Davis receives nominations forwarded through soldiers’ chaplains, confirms the information with commanding officers and interviews the candidates.

Lt. Col. James Hall, a chaplain, has worked with Davis since the first year. He said service members often insist that someone else needs the ticket home more than they do. “(As) soldiers, we don’t have the expectation that anybody’s going to treat us special,” Hall said. “And when someone treats us special enough to send us home to see our family that we’re far away from. … To be able to do that does create a lot of joy.”

Davis told of a soldier named Miller who had won custody of her children after a divorce but had to send them to their grandparents about 4,300 miles away. Hall said Miller had been sending money to help care for the children, leaving her without enough to travel. Operation H.O.M.E. flew Miller to North Carolina to see her children for the first time in over a year.

“She just came back really energized, re-

ally happy,” Hall said.

Each service member sent home receives a package. It includes their itinerary and tickets, a green-black military Bible, Christian music CDs by Guy Penrod (1985 Liberty graduate) and letters from Operation H.O.M.E. and a local pastor. The letters explain the ministry and its founding in the

“

Once we knew the strain on our soldiers it broke our heart(s) — Byron Davis

gospel, inviting the military member to know Christ. Davis said he has yet to hear of any salvations but said God has called us to plant the seed.

Many of the service members Davis selects have been sending pay home. One soldier sent pay to his father and siblings in Puerto

Rico, where a hurricane destroyed his neighborhood. Operation H.O.M.E. funded his trip to New York to see his daughter for the first time in over a year. A video on the ministry’s website shows the soldier hugging his daughter in her classroom.

In 2015 when Operation H.O.M.E. began, Davis sent 10 soldiers home. This year Davis hopes to send 65, though he has yet to reach the $100,000 goal.

“Each year it has been a complete God thing that we have met our goal,” Davis said. “… It’s (through) people who see the need, understand that it’s real, and are willing to say thank you to the soldiers.”

Stories and videos of the service members’ trips home can be found on the ministry website.

Those interested in helping Operation H.O.M.E. in the work of getting service members home for Christmas may do so by visiting the 501c3 organizations web site at www.operationhome.us.

Donations can also be sent by mail to: Operation H.O.M.E. Inc., PO Box 423, Forest Va., 24551.

EATON is a feature reporter.

Individual needs, individual care

Brentwood Church’s ‘Transition’ program team serves special needs children Siani Null snull@liberty.edu

When senior Audrey Wilson came to Liberty three years ago she began her search for a local church. One of the criteria on her list narrowed down her search more than others. The special and elementary education major desired to get plugged into a church body that serves the special needs population.

“I knew I wanted something that had a special needs program, and Brentwood did,” Wilson said. “I wanted to serve the church in that way so that’s how I found the Transition team.”

Wilson is a volunteer for Transition, an area of kid’s ministry for special needs children at Brentwood Church in Forest, Virginia.

The Transition team is made up of about 14 volunteers who serve in weekly ministry with children whose ages range from babies four weeks old to 19 years old.

According to Brentwood Church Transition Director Hannah Bowie, a normal Sunday morning does not really exist for their team.

Every week is different for the team, depending on the specific needs of every child. For example, even if there are several kids who share the similarity of being on the autism spectrum, they each express themselves in a unique way.

“Their actions come out differently,” Bowie said. “Some kids don’t talk and the only way to express their feelings of frustration is to get angry and run, while some are affected by noise and some aren’t.”

The team has a room to themselves in the church if they need to

utilize it. Their goal, however, is to place a different Transition volunteer in each room where they are needed in order to keep the children integrated with others their own age.

Some older children in the Transition program are unable to communicate with words, but even if

meet parents there and help them with that.”

According to Wilson, special needs families are one of the largest unreached people groups in the United States. Whole families are affected when a church does not provide special needs ministry, just as whole families are served when a

just know that Jesus loves them,” Wilson said. “It’s just important for everybody to know that and just because their kid might need a little extra attention doesn’t mean that as the church we shouldn’t step up and serve in that way.”

Brentwood Church began its Transition ministry around 2013

Taryn Azimov | Liberty Champion

MINISTER — Team members at Transition address individual needs of children in a welcoming environment. they have never said, “Mom and Dad, I love you,” the goal is still for them to be in their classroom. This way they are not secluded but are given the chance to interact with their peers.

“One of the big desires of a family or parent is that they want their child to be with their peers and where they should be age wise no matter what need they have,” Bowie said. “So, we want to

church does provide it.

Bowie said they indirectly serve 50 people a week through the 5-10 children they work with. Bowie’s team allows the children to be in a safe place while their parents and siblings can rest and recharge at the church service each week.

“They are normal families just like everybody else and they need to have a place where they can go to church and hear the gospel and

after it introduced its Mosaic program that values and encourages fostering and adopting. According to Bowie, many children in the foster system grow up in situations of abuse and neglect which can create more emotional and behavioral issues than in other children.

“We as a church have to be able to serve those kids that might not look different but something set them off,” Bowie said. “If you want

to serve, you can’t exclude a certain population. If you want to go after foster and adoptive families you’re going to have to go after the kids with special needs, emotional needs and behavioral needs.”

For both women, serving on the Transition team has changed their lives. Each of them stepped out in faith to where they felt like God was leading them to serve and have learned a different lesson through the process.

“My life was a wreck before joining this ministry team,” Bowie said. “On the outside it looked like I had it all together, but it was emotionally and spiritually a mess.

Just by saying yes to this opportunity and joining the team, God has blown up my life and he has blessed me beyond anything I could ever explain or want or desire or pray about.”

In her three years with the ministry, Wilson has learned even when she seems unqualified, God qualifies the called and teaches when we practice trusting him. Wilson plans to secure a special education job after she graduates in May, but that will not be the “end all be all” of her career.

“A lot of people think they’re scary or they think they can’t communicate with them because they physically can’t communicate in words,” Wilson said. “My vision and goal for life is to bridge that gap so that people know they are people just like us. They can bring just as much joy and they can serve the world and change the world just like we can.”

NULL is a sports reporter.