Liberty Champion April 17, 2012

Relay for Life | B5

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LIBERTY CHAMPION Tuesday, April 17, 2012

Today: T.Storms 77/54 Tomorrow: Showers 71/50

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Volume 29 • Issue 20

Healthcare bill on precipice

alluvion stage company

Dominique McKay dgmckay@liberty.edu

The ultimate fate of President Barack Obama’s 2010 Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) now lies in the hands of the nine U.S. Supreme Court Justices. In late March, the case was brought before the Supreme Court after 26 states— including Virginia—challenged the constitutionality of the law and its individual health care mandate, requiring every American to purchase health care or pay a yearly fine of the greater of $695 or 2.5 percent Obama of income when fully phased in, according to CNN. Supporters of PPACA argue that If upheld, the law makes the nation’s health PPACA will be care system more implemented efficient by simplibeginning fying the process of in 2014 and health care, which will be fully in turn saves the nation billions of phased in by dollars. Opponents 2016. of the law argue that the mandate is unconstitutional and will actually add billions of dollars to the nation’s budget deficit.

“To uphold ObamaCare, you would have to rewrite the Constitution. A decision upholding ObamaCare will do serious damage to the integrity of the Supreme Court,” Mat Staver, dean of Liberty University School of Law, said in a recent press release.

During the three days of oral arguments, Justice Anthony Kennedy, who is considered by many people to be the swing-vote, appeared to be leaning away from support of the individual mandate. “…Here the government is saying that the Federal Government has a duty to tell the individual citizen that it must act, and that is different from what we have in previous cases and that changes the relationship of the Federal Government to the individual in a very fundamental way,” Justice Kennedy said during day two of the Supreme Court arguments.

If the court strikes down the law’s individual mandate, there is much speculation as to whether the PPACA health care law can survive without it. But during the arguments, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg indicated that even without the individual mandate some of the law might be salvageable.

“Why should we say it’s a choice between a wrecking operation, which is what you are requesting, or a salvage job? And the more conservative approach would be salvage rather than throwing out everything,” Justice Ginsburg said in response to comments made by Justice Paul Clement during the hearings.

Despite the mixed feelings expressed by the Justices during the Supreme Court hearings, there are some people in government who strongly support the law and are

FYI

See OBAMACARE, A6

Ruth Bibby | Liberty Champion

flying — The musical climaxes as Peter Pan (Caleb Hughes) and Captain Hook (Professor Chris Nelson) battle on a pirate ship.

Alluvion takes flight Shelanne Jennings snjennings@liberty.edu

Peter Pan took Liberty University’s theater program to new heights, April 13, as the curtain opened on Alluvion Stage Company’s premiere production.

The show, the first to feature alumni and students together on one stage, sold out in its first weekend, offering promise to future Alluvion productions.

“It was a solid opening show,” Alluvion Stage Company’s Artis-

tic Director and Peter Pan director Linda Cooper said. “I wasn’t expecting it to be sold out, but it was.”

Alluvion Stage Company, which stemmed from and is in conjunction with Liberty University, is a professional branch that will offer upperclassmen a chance to act alongside alumni and other nonstudents and gain one professional credit.

“It’s a great resume-booster,” Liberty graduating senior Jamie Cloutier, who plays the role of

Wendy in Peter Pan, said. “It’s a great experience, and we have professional responsibilities that we didn’t have before.”

According to Liberty alumni and professor Chris Nelson, Peter Pan has set the tone for what audience members can expect from Alluvion shows.

“Alluvion is all about family entertainment, and I feel this is one of the most family-friendly stories you can tell,” Nelson said. “It is

See PAN, A8

College Republicans, Democrats, Libertarians debate

Student associations discuss various hot topic issues at Political Policy Forum Melanie Oelrich moelrich@liberty.edu

The College Republicans, College Democrats and Libertarians of Liberty University debated on President Obama’s healthcare plan

Thursday, April 12. As one of the most controversial issues in American politics today, the topic of Individual Mandate within the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act has been in the spotlight this past month. The topic

has been in debate for two years, but its constitutionality has recently been discussed in the Supreme Court.

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA), otherwise known as Obamacare, is a 2,000-

page bill signed into law by Obama in 2010. PPACA requires citizens not covered by employer—or government— sponsored insurance plans to maintain minimal essential

See POLITICS, A8

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NEWS

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April 17, 2012

Hurt speaks to College Republicans Congressman Robert Hurt urged Liberty students to take action with economic crisis, 2012 presidential election Kate Powley knpowley@liberty.edu

Congressman Robert Hurt came to Liberty University on Thursday, April 3, to speak to the College Republicans about their responsibility to be out in the community and making a difference for the upcoming presidential election.

“Consider your time these six months … be willing to commit to us. And I’m not talking about me or my campaign but about our country,” Hurt said.

Hurt lamented on the current state of the economy and the national debt crisis, urging students to get involved with politics even at the local level. He spoke about problems with the current presidency and things he would like to see changed.

“You may recall that what’s happened within the past two years such as health care … being rammed down our throats without due process,” Hurt said.

“How high do gasoline prices have to be before we adopt a domestic policy?”

Furthermore, Hurt spoke about the respect he has for the veterans of World War II and those whom he refers to as the “people who ensured our country’s freedom”. According to Hurt, those people fought for the future of their children and

Kate Powley | Liberty Champion

Responsibility — Hurt told College Republicans it was their responsibility to be active locally. grandchildren.

“At the end of the day the question we should ask is, is this the America we want for our children and grandchildren,” Hurt said. “This next (presidential) election is absolutely critical.”

After his address Hurt answered questions from the audience. One student asked if there is any piece of legislature

being passed that the congressman is particularly excited about passing.

“Things are brewing in (Washington, D.C.) as far as legislation and policy is concerned … we don’t have anything that’s totally cooked yet,” Hurt said.

Hurt said that the single thing that has influenced him as a politician would be the problem of the national debt crisis.

“The number one thing that concerns me and that has influenced my campaign is to see our financial house in order… lower gas prices, full employment …

But at the end of the day we have got to address our spending and debt crisis.”

According to the Director of Communications for the College Republicans Paul Sapperstein, the College Republicans asked

Hurt to come to speak about fiscal responsibility — something Hurt refers to as “putting the house in order”.

“We always like to hear from our congressmen in D.C… we love to hear what’s going on there,” Sapperstein said. “By the general election time we’ll have most of the elected officials here to speak.”

Sapperstein said that the College Republicans are aiming to get involved with upcoming elections.

“City council elections are the important thing this semester.

When it comes down to it, we have a chance to make a difference come May 1,” Sapperstein said.

During the months leading up to the presidential election, both the College Republicans and Hurt will be doing all they can to campaign and get people out to vote.

“Look back on this time with pride — that’s what our elections are all about,” Hurt said.

The city and town elections will be May 1, state primaries will be held on June 12 and the general election will be November 6.

POWLEY is a news reporter.

Debate team dominates Students conclude successful season at National Debate Tournament, set Liberty University records Ashley Addington anaddington@liberty.edu

Liberty University’s debate team conquered the competition, the Cross Examination Debate Association (CEDA).

Throughout the season, the team has come out strong against all of its participants. The team competed with three separate organizations at once, which included the American Debate Association (ADA), CEDA and National Debate Tournament (NDT).

Director of Debate Michael Hall was very impressed with the team’s season this year.

“The key to our season was senior leadership. We had a core group of experienced debaters willing to lead verbally and by example,” Hall said.

The team this year consisted of 33 hard-working members who put in an average of 20-40 hours a week researching and practicing.

The team went to the National Debate Tournament Championship the weekend of March 29. Their top competitors included Northwestern, the United States Military Academy, Wake Forest University and Harvard. When the team competed at Regionals, their competitors included James Madison University, Mary Washington and George Mason University.

“The National Debate Tournament is the culmination of the entire season. Everyone who participates has to qualify so the level of competition is significantly greater,” debate team member Lincoln Garrett said. “It also marked my last tournament ever. Austin (my partner) and I had relative success throughout the year and we had reasonable expectations for the NDT. We got off to a rocky start and the difficulty of our opponents increased

with each round. Despite that, we went 6-2, qualified for elimination rounds and won our first elimination round.”

“The amount of success we had was outstanding and the way the team pulled together for five straight days is what I will really take away from the NDT,” Garrett said.

“The NDT tournament is a lot like basketball tournaments. You must qualify for each round first. Only the top 78 teams are allowed to compete. We had two of our teams qualify to go, which was awesome,” Hall said.

Students enjoy the various forms of debate and the practice that the teams require. They practice just as consistently as any other intercollegiate team. Most of the time spent at practice involves either researching arguments or figuring out how to properly use them in a competition. When individual practices are held, the coaches help perfect verbal and appearance skills.

“This is definitely helping me for when I leave the university. I want to work for the FBI and to do that I need to be able to research and think critically, along with doing that quickly,” freshman member Savon Ayodeji said.

The debate team is always looking for new members who have experience in debate or have some practice with public speaking. To learn more, students can stop by the debate office for more information.

“We welcome hard-working students with or without debate and public speaking ability.. While it helps to have some speaking experience, it isn’t necessary,” Hall said.

ADDINGTON is a news reporter.

Ruth Bibby | Liberty Champion

new lifestyle — Greg Quinlan speaks to students about his former choices.

Activist speaks to students Brittany Laird bhlaird@liberty.edu

President of Parents and Friends of Ex-Gays and Gays (PFOX) Greg Quinlan addressed a group of students last week at the Helms School of Government.

In his speech, this former gay activist addressed issues such as how homosexuality impacts the United States, if it is possible to change homosexual tendencies and how he believes Christians should interact with homosexual individuals.

A firm advocate of marriage remaining between one man and one woman, Quinlan has defended his position in 19 different states over the past few years. He is currently working with the New Jersey Family Policy Council, according to his bio.

Quinlan, a registered nurse, witnessed the

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death of many homosexual individuals prior to his decision to leave the lifestyle.

“I watched a hundred of my friends and acquaintances die of AIDS before I quit counting. All those played a part with being disgusted with the lifestyle,” Quinlan said. “But personally, there came a point where the homosexual lifestyle was shallow, lust-filled and immature.

But I didn’t know how to get out of it.”

Quinlan now works to help others who struggle with homosexual tendencies to find healing.

“There’s hope and there’s healing, but you must be able and willing to do the work,” Quinlan said.

Quinlan said he has experienced constant opposition from people who disagree with his views on this controversial topic.

Wayne Besen, a gay

rights activist, is one of the most well-known individuals to strongly oppose him. He is currently in the process of suing Quinlan for libel and slander, according to Quinlan.

“He actually said to me in person that somebody ought to run me over with a bus, somebody ought to inject me with AIDS,” Quinlan said.

In his time at Liberty, Quinlan also addressed the church’s response to individuals who struggle with homosexuality, suggesting providing professional help.

“If there was ever a time for the church of Jesus Christ to wake up, it’s now. I don’t mean go back to sleep when they win one battle,” Quinlan said.

LAIRD is a news reporter.

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NEWS

April 17, 2012

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Chancellor’s Awards honor faculty Cherie Jamison cnjamison@liberty.edu

Eleven Liberty University faculty members were honored this month with the announcement of the Chancellor’s Awards for Excellence in Teaching. This is the second year for the awards, which were instituted by the Center for Teaching Excellence.

According to Center for Teaching Excellence Director Sharon Wheeler, the awards are given based on category, allowing for teachers at all levels to be recognized – whether they are graduate or undergraduate, residential or online.

“Many times, stories of faculty successes don’t get out beyond their department,” Wheeler said.

“We want to get the word out to the students.”

This year, Wheeler’s ties to the award became personal when her daughter, Psychology Professor Trilby Cox, was recognized for her work as an undergraduate online faculty member.

Cox, who teaches from her home in Paris, France, said she has always felt support at Liberty and was thankful that the administration recognized the work of online professors.

“I am very humbled to have

received the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching, especially as I know there are a great many online faculty who do an outstanding job for the school,” Cox said.

Because the award-winners are selected by a committee of Deans, Wheeler wasn’t aware that her daughter was being honored until the recommendation came out of the committee.

Some award winners – such as Dr. Mark Hensley, who teaches in the undergraduate online School of Religion – juggle other ventures while still connecting with their students. According to his website, Hensley currently serves as Senior Pastor for Hilltop Baptist Church in Green River, Wyo. in addition to his work as a professor.

“When I read the note of congratulations informing me that I had been chosen to receive the Chancellor’s Award, I was immediately moved to tears,” Hensley said.

Hensley said he makes it a point to connect with his students as much as possible through email and words of encouragement.

He admits that juggling his time “takes discipline,” but he found the energy to do so through his relationship with the Lord.

C Awards for Excellence in Teaching David E. Towles

Anita M. Knight

English and Modern Languages, Resident Undergraduate 1st Place

Counseling and Family Studies, Resident Graduate 1st Place

Lucinda S. Spaulding

Trilby Wheeler Cox

Teacher Education, LUO Graduate 1st Place

Psychology, LUO Undergraduate 1st Place

Samuel James Smith

Stuart H. Schwartz

Graduate Education, Resident Graduate 2nd Place

Communication Studies, Resident Undergraduate 2nd Place

Deborah Pinkston Counseling and Family Studies,

Jennifer Anne Hollis General Studies, LUO Undergraduate 2nd Place

LUO Graduate 2nd Place

Mark Robert Hensley

Steven W. Guest

Religion, LUO Undergraduate 3rd Place

Seminary, LUO Graduate 3rd Place

Donald H. Alban Jr. General Studies, Resident Undergraduate 3rd Place

Center for Teaching Excellence

Awards — Liberty awarded 11 faculty for excellence in teaching.

“I remind myself often that my main priority is honoring the Lord Jesus as a minister of the

gospel and as a pastor,” Hensley said.

Like Cox, fellow award-win-

ner and Associate Professor and Director of School Administration Program Dr. Samuel Smith counts himself blessed to work in the Liberty community.

“There are so many excellent instructors at Liberty, and I count it a privilege to work alongside them,” Smith said. “My greatest reward is teaching in an environment that gives faculty the freedom to present ideas through the lens of biblical truth.”

The integration of a Biblical worldview is one of the criteria for winning the award, according to Wheeler. Faculty members apply for the award online and winners are chosen based on best practices in teaching and incorporation of Christian values. Teachers must also submit samples of work produced by themselves or by their students.

Wheeler said winners of the Chancellor’s Award are given a cash prize and will be recognized with the presentation of a certificate during Commencement.

The full list of winners can be found on the Center for Teaching Excellence page on the Liberty website or by emailing CTE@liberty.edu.

JAMISON is a news reporter.

Chipotle coming?

Ashley Bollinger akbollinger@liberty.edu

Photo provided

Food groups — The County Health Rankings & Roadmaps report includes healthy foods.

City health report released with tips for healthy living Jessica Rowell jrowell@liberty.edu

As Americans face potential reform for their health care, many may need to reform their health habits as a means to alleviate pressure on their well being and their wallets.

Many residents within Virginia, including those in Lynchburg, have fallen victim to the sweeping health problems that are increasingly common nationwide. Obesity, cancer and heart disease are just a few that plague Americans of all ages, including middle-aged citizens and children.

Mayor Joan Foster has proposed a plan for Lynchburg residents to lose 12 tons, according to an article in the News and Advance. The Live Healthy Lynchburg initiative is supposed to help the city lose the desired weight.

“Diseases like obesity are affecting children. In fact, 1 and 3 children in America

are obese. A lot of problems are in the context of obesity.

Diabetes is a main one as well as heart disease, high blood pressure and cholesterol and cancer,” Nutrition Affairs Account Manager for Southeast United Dairy Industry Association, Inc. Laura Buxenbaum stated. “It’s estimated that Baby Boomers may end up outliving their children who have these health problems.

That’s scary for residents in Virginia and across the country.”

As a registered dietician and health educator, Buxenbaum understands the consequences of ill health, both physically, emotionally and financially “One of the biggest repercussions is economic,” Buxenbaum said. “The CDC confirms that medical expenses for those who are obese are almost $1,500 higher a year and this is certainly a concern for Virginia and Lynchburg residents.”

The County Health Rank-

ings & Roadmaps program initiated in 2012 by the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute reported statistics on the health of Lynchburg City residents.

The report stated that 31 percent of adults in Lynchburg are obese, passing the 25 percent national benchmark. Out of the entire city population, 8,013 residents die prematurely due to health problems, most notably smoking, lack of physical activity and obesity. These numbers again pass the national average, coming in at 5,466.

Educators and dietitians like Buxenbaum work to campaign the promotion of healthy lifestyle education and programs. With more educated and health-conscious citizens with a desire to change, Lynchburg can alter its numbers and overall health.

ROWELL is a news reporter.

This year has proven itself a growing year for Lynchburg with the opening of many local restaurants including Bloop, Yogurt Yeti and Cookout — but it does not stop there.

For years, Lynchburg residents have been pushing for Chipotle Mexican Grill to open its doors in their community, according to a survey by Michael Gumprecht, originator of the “Get Chipotle in Lynchburg” petition.

According to Chipotle representatives, they are now planning to open one of their self-proclaimed “gourmet burrito” restaurants in Lynchburg.

“I can let you know that it’s true: we do plan to open up in Lynchburg soon,” Chipotle Customer Service Director James Davis said. “If all goes according to plan, the location will have its grand opening near the beginning of June.”

Although the location for the new Chipotle has yet to be verified by the Chipotle Corporation, President of Prototype Advertising and Coowner of Bloop Josh Oppenheimer has verified that the new construction in Lynchburg on Wards Rd. will be home to two new “Liberty-friendly” establishments.

The first of which will be another cen-

Photo Provided

More food — New restaurants are coming to Wards Road, including Bloop, Arozto and possibly Chipotle Mexican Grill. trally-located Bloop, a frozen yogurt establishment.

“At Prototype what we do is create brands,” Co-owner of Bloop and Prototype’s Senior Art Director Daryl Calfee said. “With Bloop, we decided that if we were going to do it, we were going to do it better.”

“I was sitting at home reading when it came to me,” Calfee said. “Mark 9:41 talks about giving a cup of water in my name, that is when we came up with the cup for a cup to donate to charity.”

Currently, there are five Bloop locations open or under construction.

Oppenheimer was also able to confirm the opening of a brand new restaurant, Arozto.

“Arozto means fireroasted in Italian,” Oppenheimer said. “This is going to be fireroasted pizza, Chipotle style. It will be custommade and similar to

Waterstone, another local restaurant located in downtown Lynchburg.

The similarity to its neighbor, Waterstone, is not a coincidence according to Oppenheimer. The new establishment is co-owned by the owner of the upscale pizza restaurant, Steve Perry Restaurants.

“We at Prototype had a relationship with Steve Perry,” Calfee said. “Mr. Perry is very successful at what he does, and we have had a chance at Prototype to work with him on Waterstone, but also with Shoemakers. We saw the opportunity to collaborate and took advantage of that.”

According to Oppenheimer, both Arozto and Bloop are planning on accepting Liberty University’s Flames Cash.

BOLLINGER is the editor in chief.

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OPINION

APRIL 17, 2012

Judge orders removal of prayer Complaints by student force Rhode Island high school to tear a banner from auditorium’s wall Jason Bailey jbailey4@liberty.edu

Cranston, R.I. has been ignited by a twister of emotions, courtesy of the persistent work of a high school junior who imposed a lawsuit on the city to remove a prayer from her high school auditorium’s wall.

According to the NY Times, a federal judge ruled this month that the prayer’s presence at Cranston High School West was unconstitutional, hence the verdict that the chalked religious graffiti violates the principle of government neutrality in religion.

This is a blatant attack against Christianity, and the ruling is in direct violation of the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution which protects the right to freedom of religion and expression from government interference.

CNN.com reports that the school’s prayer banner begins with the phrase, “Our Heavenly Father,” and concludes with “Amen.” The 8-foot-high, 3-foot-wide banner encourages students to strive academically, show kindness, be honest, display good sportsmanship and conduct themselves in such a manner as to bring honor to the school.

“As an atheist, I do not feel included in the message of the prayer; in fact, I feel excluded,” Jessica Ahlquist said, according to CNN.com.

CNN also reported that Ahlquist’s father believes his daughter should not be subject

Cranston Patch

School spirit — The banner in question has hung in Cranston High School West for 49 years. to a religious communication and display with which she does not agree as a condition of attending public school.

Sara Williams, a Family and Consumer Science teacher at Maury River Middle School in Lexington, Va., disagrees.

“It [the prayer] has every right to be on the auditorium wall as anything else,” Williams said. “She is a self-atheist. That’s her personal choice. But I don’t think one person should have the right to dictate what is placed and published for public viewing

on public facilities.”

Christiansburg math teacher Julia Knopp approached the situation from a different angle.

“People need to realize that the government isn’t a Christian government anymore,” Knopp said. “It is silly to assume the government will support and uphold Christian values in a public school arena anymore.”

“I’m an atheist,” Ahlquist insists. “I don’t believe in the Heavenly Father, so I shouldn’t have to look at it.”

Then don’t look at it, Miss

Ahlquist.

The 16-year-old plaintiff ’s argument is weak at best. The prayer banner is being covered up after a federal judge ordered it to be removed to satisfy the junior’s objection, declaring it unconstitutional to have the banner mounted in public view.

“We have freedom of speech and the right to practice whatever religion we want without government interference,” Williams said. “She [Ahlquist] needs to back up.”

Williams also proposed that

rather than being largely concerned with the laws of the land and her religious rights as a U.S. citizen and public school student, Ahlquist may be pressing for legal action to get attention.

“I can see why we have separation of church and state,” Williams said. “I don’t always agree with the concept. But I get what people’s mindsets are about it. If I were a part of that school’s administration, I would be asking her [Ahlquist] what about that segment of scripture bothers her and why specifically is she pressing so hard for legal action against the school and town in which she resides.”

Ahlquist could save her school and city an enormous and timeconsuming financial migraine by tolerating all religions and public expressions that the First Amendment allows all American citizens to practice and enjoy.

The city is staring down the barrel of a $173,000 court fee — standard procedure for winning a court case, but a hefty fine for the school district to pay. And if the case proceeds down further legal channels, it will only become increasingly difficult for them to handle.

To cave to the juvenile’s request is a repulsive concept and will further confuse and distort the gravity of freedom and the gavel of power the First Amendment grants citizens regarding religious freedom and expression.

BAILEY is an opinion writer.

Finally, UN negotiates ceasefire in Syria

Secretary-General coerces Syrian government into agreeing to a ceasefire with militant citizens Troy Dauksys tadauksys2@liberty.edu

Imagine fighting for survival every day for more than a year in your own country. Imagine being unable to pursue happiness and freedom — something many Americans take for granted today. Imagine witnessing loved ones being massacred right before your eyes.

Obviously, that’s not something anyone would be eager to imagine — unless you are the president of Syria, and your name is Bashar al-Assad — a monster that has turned his government into a destructive killing machine.

According to the NY

Times, Secretary-General of the United Nations Kofi Annan negotiated a fragile cease-fire to go into effect in Syria on Thursday.

“I am encouraged by reports that the situation in Syria is relatively quiet and that the cessation of hostilities appears to be holding,” Annan said. “Syria is apparently experiencing a rare moment of calm on the ground.”

In the NY Times’ article Annan also said, “This is the time for all Syrians to come together in the hope that they can begin to heal their wounds and initiate a political transition to a democratic, plural political system in which citizens have equal rights and

M O FRTHE

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As I wove my little SUV into a parking spot a good hike away from my office, I instantly regretted the decision to wear heels. Yet, as I made the trek toward DeMos,s I realized I might actually miss this.

equal opportunities, regardless of their affiliations or ethnicities or beliefs.”

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said, “The onus is on the government of Syria to prove that their words will be matched by their deeds at this time.”

In a Department of State press release, Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton called the decision “an important step,” stressing that Syria must do more to comply with the peace plan. She included that the United States would continue supporting opponents of Assad, with the exception of supplying weapons.

“We remain firmly resolved that the regime’s

In 26 days, I will be a college graduate.

It seems crazy that three years ago when I transferred to Liberty University I thought there was no end in sight. Yet, here I am, preparing not only to graduate, but also to get married.

But, back to Bollinger graduation.

Graduating is expensive, something all college seniors are now learning. It is easy to look at all of the different fees associated with this right of passage and opt out of the seemingly “all-for-show” ceremony. It is easy to think of graduation as a duty, but that is not what it is.

I was asked a few months ago who I

war against its own people must end for good and a political transition must begin,” Clinton said in her statement. “Assad will have to go and the Syrian people must be given a chance to chart their own future.”

While I strongly doubt that Assad’s regime has demonstrated any kind of remorse for its cruel and destructive behavior, there was finally a small ounce of hope that the people of Syria could begin to live without fear after the yearlong shelling that has killed roughly 10,000 individuals — some of whom were renowned journalists gathering the truth about life in Syria. Unfortunately, and unsurprisingly, Syrian of-

ficials have already failed to uphold their obligations concerning the cease-fire.

According to an article in the LA Times, “Just hours into a cease-fire between the Syrian government and the opposition, the truce was already on shaky ground as more than a dozen people were reported killed and there was no sign that government tanks and heavy-weapons had been withdrawn from contested areas.”

Personally, I seriously doubt a successful followthrough on behalf of Annan’s “words of encouragement” toward Syrian citizens and its ability to transform the country’s government. In addition,

would choose, if I could choose, to speak at my graduation. I instantly spouted out five names of Christians who have made an impact.

But that is not what graduation is about either.

Graduation is a celebration. It is for us. It is not about what big name can come and speak and how many cords you have earned to wear on your robe.

It is about celebrating that fact that we are finishers.

Hebrews 12:1 says, “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.”

For this time in our lives, as students, the race set before us is college.

We celebrate graduation not to show

perhaps Syria is experiencing a “rare moment of calm” — for lack of a better term — simply because large quantities of Syrian citizens have been wrongfully murdered, and let’s not forget the continuation of deaths, even during the cease-fire. We can only wait and see if Annan’s plans will turn out to be effective. Needless to say, as long as Assad is president of Syria, we could be waiting for quite some time to see any improvement.

Who’s to know how many more individuals will be murdered in the process?

This guy has “got to go.”

DAUKSYS is an opinion writer

off, but to encourage a generation of adults who have succeeded in completing the race they were given.

We get so caught up in making everything bigger and better. Universities make graduation less about the students and more about the speaker.

Well, for me, graduation is a chance to declare that I did not back down. I won. I finished the race. It is a chance for us to encourage those who will come after us to press forward.

According to the Nation Center for Education Statistics’ latest survey, only 37 percent of students who enter four-year collegiate programs actually graduate within the four years.

With the odds against us, we are the few who made it to the end.

In 26 days I am graduating. I don’t care who speaks, or what I have to wear, because in 26 days I will have won.

OPINION

April 17, 2012

Liberty Champion/A5

Local budget analysis Omar Adams oadams@liberty.edu

World Health Organization

squashing malaria— Organization works to stop the spread of a disease that is as big of a killer as the lack of clean water in Africa, but on a global scale.

World Malaria Day Special day planned to spread awareness and bring an end to this world-wide crisis Claire Riss criss@liberty.edu

The sixth annual World Malaria Day, a day initiated by the World Health Organization (WHO) to bring awareness to the disease’s global and deadly impact, will be held on April 25, 2012.

The WHO reports that there are more than 216 million malaria cases in over 100 countries annually and estimates that 655,000 people die each year as a result, proving how dire of a threat malaria is to third-world countries. Although countries around the world are affected by this mosquito-transferred disease, approximately 85-90 of all malaria cases occur in sub-Saharan Africa.

More than anything, the disease impacts children and at-risk individuals, particularly pregnant women.

The malaria problem is as large-scale in some countries as the need for clean water sources in sub-Saharan Africa, according to Cyrus Mad-Bondo, Director of Africa Projects for humanitarian organization World Help, showing how important of an issue this is for the world.

Mad-Bondo was born and raised in the Central African Republic and has seen the wide-spread impact of the infectious disease with his own eyes.

“When there’s a malaria outbreak, you just prepare for the worst. It overwhelms the system,” he said.

Malaria and poverty are directly intertwined, Mad-Bondo said. Impoverished and unimproved communities are often breeding grounds for mosquitoes, which increases malaria cases, resulting in perpetual sickness and less opportunities for communal and economic development, he said.

According to WHO reports, “Malaria can decrease gross domestic product by as much as 1.3 percent in countries with high disease rates.”

Yet malaria awareness is growing as the WHO seeks to shed light on the often deadly, but preventable, disease.

Through World Malaria Day, the organization seeks to not only provide education about the disease, but to encourage

medical, scientific and academic professionals to propagate their research and findings.

The organization also aims to foster relations between affected countries in order for them to learn from each other and garner mutual support, according to the WHO campaign. Above all, the goal of World Malaria Day is to make progress toward ending this terrible global crisis.

“The best way to deal with [the malaria crisis] is to take preventative measures,” Mad-Bondo said.

Because individuals are most vulnerable to mosquito bites when they sleep, insecticide-treated mosquito nets are the most effective and common form of malaria prevention in developing countries.

Still, less than five percent of children in sub-Saharan Africa sleep under them according to Nets For Life, a popular humanitarian aid group collaboration.

Global malaria advocates anticipate that as awareness spreads, simple precautions like mosquito netting, immunizations and mosquito population control will gain greater ground in developing nations.

Malaria deaths have been cut by more than 30 percent in Africa within the last decade, WHO statistics show.

“However, these gains are fragile and will be reversed unless malaria continues to be a priority for global, regional and national decision-makers and donors,” according to the WHO’s World Malaria Day campaign website.

“Long-term success will also depend on investments in on-going research and development to combat emerging threats such as parasite resistance,” the website said.

By 2015, the WHO aims to reach a “near-zero” volume of malaria-related deaths by partnering with field professionals and malaria awareness advocates, but this will not be possible without the cooperation of Christians. And an important first step in spreading awareness is through the recognition of World Malaria Day.

Local residents are in an uproar over proposed tax increases, specifically a $.10 increase in the real estate tax, which already runs at $1.05 per $100 of assessed property values. While no one actually likes taxes, perhaps a levelheaded look at Lynchburg’s proposed budget is in order.

Major spending hikes from all levels of government have been dumped on the desk of City Manager Kimball Payne with the request that he balance everything without offending too many voters.

According to the 2013 budget proposal, Payne eliminated 31 personnel positions and found other ways to cut more than $4 million from the budget.

Four million dollars is hardly enough to cover the increased $3.7 million in operating costs for local schools, however, and the school board has requested an extra $4.7 million in funding. As someone who grew up in a penniless private school — and still received a good education — I may be able to find excess in a $92.6 million total education budget that a public school superintendent cannot see, but that is another issue.

As a remaining proposed tax increase, the $.10 increase in real estate taxes is expected to generate an additional $5 million in revenue to the city, according to the budget. Property taxes are non-dedicated revenue, which means they support any expenditure the city has in its general fund, Payne said.

Put in perspective, the property tax increase is the highest since 1995, but the current $1.05 rate has only existed since 2007, when Payne suggested lowering the rate from $1.11. An increase to $1.15 does not seem so large in context, especially considering state- and federally-mandated expense hikes like the EPA’s new stormwater regulations.

The one consideration to keep in mind is that, while the property tax rate has remained stationary for several years, assessed property values have increased — thus increasing taxes paid by landowners without changing rates, according to data from the City Assessor’s Office. Nevertheless, that increase can be applied across the country because of the pre-recession

housing boom.

One major point of contention to the budget is the proposed five-year, $165.7 million Capital Improvement Program (CIP). Necessary infrastructure repairs are lumped together with plans to revitalize the downtown area.

Many local apartment owners, such as Heritage Park Apartments owner Josh Jones, oppose major spending increases, viewing them as wasteful. Landlords like Jones will be forced to raise rent fees to make up for the increased taxes, which cost tens of thousands of dollars for average-sized apartment complexes, according to the City Assessor’s Office.

“The city needs to be wiser about how it spends money,” Jones said. “It’s easy to spend other people’s money — you’re much more careful about your own.”

A capital investment like CIP could revitalize the historic downtown area and bring more business and life to the city, however. Should the area be made safer and more accessible than it is now, a redevelopment would be a welcome addition.

The future benefits will significantly outweigh a near-term spending increase — if the project can be finished quickly and kept tightly under budget.

More budget cuts could probably be made, as with any government entity, but overall, Payne seems to have done an excellent job of juggling spending cuts and tax increases in an austere fiscal climate.

Perhaps a native of “Tax-achusetts” just has an easier time accepting tax rates, however. If residents have complaints about the budget, they have one sure-fire way to fix it: voice their opinion in public council meetings and vote for the City Council candidate of their choice May 1. “…Local assemblies of citizens constitute the strength of free nations,” Alexis de Toqueville wrote in his masterwork “Democracy in America.”

“Town meetings are to liberty what primary schools are to science — they bring it within the people’s reach, they teach men how to use and how to enjoy it. A nation may establish a system of free government, but without the spirit of municipal institutions, it cannot have the spirit of liberty.”

ADAMS is the web editor.

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NEWS

A6/Liberty Champion

April 17, 2012

Cinematic arts program takes flight Melissa Gibby mfgibby@liberty.edu

The late Dr. Jerry Falwell Sr. always said that if it’s Christian, it should be better, and the school board here at Liberty University has taken that to heart.

In May 2011, Liberty announced plans for adding a film school to the Communication Studies department, giving students interested in storytelling and videography a unique and accelerated learning experience.

Almost one year later, according to the Director of the Center for Cinematic Arts Stephan Shultze, 180 students are enrolled in the first three core classes, and the application process is underway for acceptance into the two-year intensive program.

Shultze is the former founding director of the Zaki Gordon Institute, a film school based in Sedona, Ariz.

Liberty decided to use the Zaki Gordon Institute as a model for the new program, according to the Liberty University News Service.

Schultze is thrilled about the program’s progress.

“I can’t tell you how excited we are about the process, the enthusiasm of the students, the amount of students who are interested in engaging cinema …

The caliber of the students who have the intention of getting their B.S. in Cinematic Arts is amazing,” Schultze said.

The three core classes, Introduction to Screenwriting, Introduction to Motion Picture Directing and Introduction to Cinematography, will be offered as one-week intensive courses over the summer.

All students hoping to major or minor in Cinematic Arts are required to take the core courses in addition to finishing all general studies requirements.

Michael Johnson | Liberty Champion

Film school — Liberty has opened new classrooms with the newest cinematic arts technology.

Sharon Chimere-Dan has enjoyed her experience in Cinematic Arts classes this semester.

“I am in the three classes now, and I am really enjoying them.

There is something interesting about being among the first group to take them. I find them to be pretty good introductions to their respective disciplines with just enough practical work to whet the appetite for more,” Chimere-Dan said.

This fall, Cinematic Arts students will be able to take concentration classes for the first time.

The program is two years of full immersion, according to Schultze.

“It’s an intense program. It’s really designed to give them a real understanding not only about filmmaking but the life of a filmmaker and the intensity and the amount of work required to be a successful film-

OBAMACARE continued from A1 confident it will not be struck down.

When asked about what Democrats will do if the court strikes down the law, Vice President Joe Biden told CBS’s “Face the Nation” host Bob Schieffer on April 1, “We think the mandate and the law is constitutional and we think the court will rule that way.”

President Obama’s most recent comments about this issue have caused a stir between the Court and the White House.

“Ultimately, I am confident that the Supreme Court will not take what would be an unprecedented, extraordinary step of overturning a law that was passed by a strong majority of a democratically elected Congress,” Obama said during a press conference with Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Mexican President Felipe Calderon on April 2.

Following President Obama’s comments, some people, including U.S. 5th Circuit Court of Appeals Judge Jerry Smith, claimed the President’s remarks could be read as a challenge to the authority of federal courts, according to CBS News.

In a recent press release, Staver agreed with Smith’s assertions saying, “Our Con-

maker,” Schultze said.

The concentration classes being offered this fall are Business Law, Editing, Video Production, Advanced Audio Production, Film as Art and Directing.

The Cinematic Arts program has hosted several free screenwriting and directing workshops this semester for all Liberty students interested in film.

The workshop speakers, Sterling Norman Anderson, Shawn Nelson and Dan Gordon, are all professionals in the film industry.

“When learning filmmaking, you can only learn so much from the lecturing process. A lot of what you’ll learn in filmmaking is by doing, and a lot of what you’ll learn in filmmaking is by having mentors (who are working professionals) come and talk to students,” Schultze said.

The film program is striving to provide the best quality technol-

stitution separates the branches of government. President Obama shirked his duty to defend the Defense of Marriage Act but seems to believe he has final authority on ObamaCare. The only thing ‘unprecedented’ about this situation is the President’s misunderstanding of the Constitution.”

Others came out in support of what the President said including Attorney General Eric Holder, who said that the President recognizes the Court authority but that the Executive Branch has often urged courts to “respect the legislative judgments of Congress,” according to the Huffington Post.

On Friday, March 30, the Justices cast preliminary votes after the three days of initial arguments, but the public will likely not know the final outcome of the healthcare debate until June. Meanwhile, Justices will spend the next three months deliberating and drafting their opinions and dissents.

Full audio and transcript of the health care hearings can be found on the U.S. Supreme Court website www.supremecourt. gov.

MCKAY is a graduate assistant.

ogy possible to students.

“We’re building a surround sound mixing stage that will be licensed by THX, so students will learn how to mix in THX surround sound. Students will be using RED cameras, which are the same cameras they used on The Hobbit. So there’s no difference between walking onto a set here at Liberty in terms of the equipment you will be using and walking onto The Hobbit,” Schultze said.

The Cinematic Arts program has plans for activities and speakers that will be available to all Liberty students.

“Be looking for a film festival that’s coming. We’re going to try and do a film screening with filmmakers that we’re going to be bringing in, if not once a month, then pretty often. We’re going to bring a wide variety of speakers who are going to come

in,” Schultze said.

With 180 students in Cinematic Arts classes, and many already in the application process for the program, Schultze is enthusiastic about the reactions of many students.

Andrew Edwards, a freshman from Randleman, N.C., said the film school was a major factor in his college decision.

“My dad was an excellent storyteller. My parents would watch movies with me, and then we would discuss the themes, motives and characters as a family. I truly fell in love with storytelling as a medium. ... When I found out that Liberty was opening the film school, I knew that this is where God wanted me to be,” Edwards said.

For Chimere-Dan, Liberty’s film school was a perfect fit.

“It was a direct answer to prayer. I wanted to learn how to make movies in a hands-on environment that would get me involved in all aspects of moviemaking, and the Cinematic Arts program impressed me with their vision of how they aim to do that,” Chimere-Dan said.

Schultze is excited about the future of the program and passionate about the art of storytelling and sharing that knowledge with his students.

“Storytelling and filmmaking is an accessible art form unlike any other art form that exists in the world. If you want to learn storytelling, I think there’s no greater form and easier way to understand than to start making movies, because you have to marry picture with sound. Don’t be afraid of storytelling. Open yourself up to the exploration of film — the joy of sitting in a dark room and being surrounded by an experience of telling a story,” Schultze said.

GIBBY is a news reporter.

NEWS

April 17, 2012

Liberty Champion/A7

Alpha Lambda Delta initiates new students ALD honor society holds spring initiation April 13 to induct 345 new members, including 80 online students

Melanie Oelrich moelrich@liberty.edu

The Towns Auditorium was nearly filled to capacity Friday night as the Alpha Lambda Delta (ALD) Honor Society held its spring initiation and reception event April 13. A total of 345 students were initiated during the ceremony.

Eighty of those students are enrolled online.

ALD is a local chapter of a national interdisciplinary honor society that provides Christian, intellectual and social enrichment, along with leadership experience, for the officers and students who may become eligible for the honor societies of their majors. The purpose of the initiation ceremony is to reward students for their first year of academic achievements, which includes a 3.5 GPA, no failing grades, and at least 12 recorded credits per semester.

During the ceremony, students had the opportunity to hear from a variety of speakers. Sarah Boderck, a freshman special education major, is grateful for the opportunity to be a part of ALD and is excited for the experiences to come.

“My drive for academic excellence will not only increase but will also remain a key part though my college years with

Melanie Oelrich | Liberty Champion

AWARDS — Students are recognized for their academic excellence at the annual Spring Initiation.

my goals and self-expectations growing,” Boderck said.

Boderck spoke of the importance of gaining everything possible from the professors and deans at Liberty.

“No matter what you do, it is always necessary to strive to do your best in all that you do.

I plan on learning from my academic excellence and applying those dedicated skills to further myself,” Boderck said.

Jennifer Tari, a freshman nursing major, is also excited for the opportunity to be a

part of such a prestigious society.

“It’s quite an honor to be in Alpha Lambda Delta. I plan on getting involved with the service opportunities presented as a member of this honor society. I hope this group can truly make a difference in the lives of those around us for the Lord’s glory,” Tari said.

Dean of the Center for Academic Support and Advising Services Dr. Brian Yates was the keynote speaker for the evening. He encouraged

students to put their trust in God, to chase opportunities that have been given to them and to honor Christ first.

“I learned that no matter what I think that I can or cannot do, God is the sole controller of my life and has blessed me with gifts that I plan to use for His purpose,” Boderck said.

“Dr. Yates urged us to ‘never say never’ and to follow our dreams in hopes of changing the world around us for the glory of the Lord. His inspir-

ing life story of never giving up served as a symbol of perseverance and an example for us to follow as new Alpha Lambda Delta members,” Tari said.

Once students are initiated into the society, they will remain members for life. For those who were not able to attend the ceremony Friday night, there will be a makeup initiation ceremony for them to attend. All honor society members must be officially initiated.

ALD emphasizes that educated persons have a responsibility to practice tolerance in dealing with all people, generosity in giving to those in need and insight into the feelings of others. Members are challenged to make a meaningful contribution to society and, through their chapters, engage in community service projects as well as campus service activities.

Today, ALD has more than 235 chapters throughout the nation and offers almost $100,000 in scholarships to its members.

OELRICH is a news reporter.

NEWS

A8/Liberty Champion

April 17, 2012

Michelle Dix

Awareness — “Strike a Pose, Africa!” fashion show included traditional clothing from various African countries and attempted to raise awareness for HIV/AIDS victims.

Fashion show raises HIV awareness Brittany Laird

bhlaird@liberty.edu

Liberty University’s Association of Students of African Descent hosted their annual fashion show, Strike a Pose, Africa! this past Saturday to raise awareness of HIV/ AIDS. The show was geared in a way so that students could be informed of the impact that HIV/AIDS has on the world

POLITICS continued from A1 health insurance coverage or pay a tax, unless they are exempted for religious beliefs or financial hardship, which is referred to as the “individual mandate.”

Republican debaters Zach Martin and Josh Hetzler called the plan “unconstitutional and immoral, and should be repealed and rejected wholesale.” They also claimed that the enforcement of this act will not work. People who have insurance will make more frequent doctor visits than people without insurance, causing a decrease in the quality or rationing of care, the team said.

Libertarian debaters Craig Storrs and David Sherret agreed that Obamacare would be destructive for the economy, thus adding $1.15 trillion to net spending. During his debate, Storrs referred to the General Welfare Clause, located in the Constitution.

“Nothing trumps the Constitution,” Storrs said.

However, Democrat representatives Christine Darby and Jerry Griffin disagreed, saying that the PPACA is, indeed, constitutional and a national necessity. They claimed that this bill would “allow the pool to be bigger so that every citizen can have the same coverage and right as every other American. Without the mandate, government would lose $10 billion per year.”

Sean Boden, a senior Politics and Policy major, sat in on the debate.

When asked how this issue would affect him,

around them. It also exposed the students to various African foods, dialects, clothing and cultures.

“I want this to really inform people that have a general knowledge about Africa but don’t really know the heart of Africa,” fashion coordinator Kay Jones said.

The fashion show included clothing representing countries such as Nigeria, Tanzania, Ghana and many others. Over

Boden replied with concern.

“With this healthcare law, it will increase the debt more, forcing me to inherit the debt,” Boden said.

“Plus, as I go into the political realm, I will be forced to correct the errors that the current government is making by both the Republicans and Democrats.”

Storrs mentioned how he would be required to pay premium insurance after he turns 26 and is let go of his parents’ insurance plan.

Student Josiah Tillett was happy that this topic was debated, as it currently plays a key role in his life. “Especially because I’m married and providing for my family, this plan would make living a lot harder. It would raise my healthcare rates, decrease healthcare quality, and have a negative impact on the industry,” Tillett said.

All debaters agreed that no matter what, Justice Kennedy would have the swing vote on the case. After hearing the oral arguments within the Supreme Court so far, Storrs believes there will be a 5-4 split, therefore nullifying the bill.

When asked what topics they would like to see debated in the future, Republican representative Zach Martin said he would like to see the issues of homosexuality and same-sex marriage discussed. On the other hand, Storrs voted for foreign policy.

OELRICH is a news reporter.

30 models participated, showcasing outfits provided through many of Liberty’s international students along with donations from Stanley Stewart Clothing, according to Jones.

The show was composed of three different scenes, showcasing different styles of African clothing. The scenes included “Dear Africa,” “Pose the Piece” and “Strike Your Stand.”

HIV survivor Marvelyn Brown addressed the group of students

halfway through the show, briefly explaining the impact that the disease has on the world.

Brown shared parts of her own story of her struggle with being HIV-positive, giving the students a closer look at the difficulties that so many individuals face.

The evening closed with an opportunity for students to experience some of the different types of African food.

Jones is pleased with the turn-

out this year and is already looking forward to next year’s show.

“It gets bigger and better every year,” Jones said.

“I really want the audience to grasp the full understanding of what it means to be African, from the struggles to the strengths,” Jones said.

“This show embodies the heart of Africa,” Jones said.

LAIRD is a news reporter.

Tax increase rejected

City Council looks at new stormwater management fee

Tabitha Cassidy tcassidy@liberty.edu

The meals tax suggested in Lynchburg’s budget proposal was taken off the menu by City Council.

Lynchburg council met Tuesday, April 10, to discuss the 2013 fiscal year operating budget proposal during a private work session. At that time, the council unanimously moved to dismiss the “Eat for Education” meals tax whose proceeds were going towards Heritage High School renovations.

According to City Manager Kimball Payne, the city was able to make $1.6 million in adjustments to the budget to make up for the missing taxes lost by not adopting the meals tax increase. “(The meals tax) received the most comments against anything during the budget public hearing and it seemed to me, from their comments, that most Council members did not support the increase,” Payne said.

As it stands now, meals tax will remain 6.5 percent for city taxes, and five percent for state.

While the removal of the meals tax from the budget proposal has caused joy within the restaurant business, attention now turns towards the storm-

PAN continued from A1 very much a kid-oriented show and a family-friendly show. It’s perfect because that’s what Alluvion is going to be about for future shows.”

Alluvion’s stated mission is to “enrich, educate and entertain our community by providing a superior theater experience in a wholesome family environment.”

Upcoming Alluvion productions will be announced May 9. The company is anticipating the production of two professional shows, but according to Cooper, the

water management fee also being suggested to City Council. According to the current proposed city budget, stormwater fees are expected to total $3.2 million.

The stormwater fund was created by the Department of Water Resources to respond to the increase of federal and state regulations meant to maintain existing stormwater infrastructure. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), watershed from the Chesapeake Bay has remained polluted. Because of this, the EPA has issued the requirement for all areas within the Chesapeake Bay drainage area to develop a way to reduce the pollution. Lynchburg falls within the drainage area and will have to come up with a plan of action to help meet these regulations.

The stormwater management fee was proposed by the city to help offset some of the costs that the city will be experiencing from this.

According to Liberty University corporate engineer for planning and construction Maggie Cossman, the stormwater management fee is being suggested at $4 per single family unit (SFU), or the average amount of impervious area on a single family parcel within the city, per month. With

decision will depend on the success of this year’s Peter Pan. For more information on Alluvion Stage Company, visit alluvionstage.com.

Peter Pan will be performing in Liberty’s Tower Theater April 19 through 21, 26 through 28 at 7:30 p.m., April 21 and 28 at 2 p.m., April 22 and 29 at 2:30 p.m. and April 24 for school groups at 10 a.m.

Tickets are available on Alluvion Stage Company’s website.

JENNINGS is the feature editor.

Liberty’s approximate 270 acres of impervious areas, or artificial structures that water cannot penetrate, the estimated stormwater fee could total $212,000 per year for the university, which represents 6.6 percent of the total proposed $3.2 million city budget.

According to Lee Beaumont, the Director of Auxiliary Services at Liberty, two shopping centers, Candler’s Station and the Plaza, both owned by the university, will also be impacted by the proposed fee.

If the proposal is approved by the city council, Beaumont said, then the stormwater management fee could be raised in the future to pay for additional upgrades needed in the City of Lynchburg.

“If the fee is approved, it will be subjected to an annual rate study, the results of which could be increases in the fee. Once the total daily maximum load pollutant requirement has been established for the city, the fee could be raised to pay for the required pollutant reduction measures,” Cossman said.

The city will propose the stormwater management fee to City Council Tuesday, April 24.

CASSIDY is the news editor.

Ruth Bubby| Liberty Champion

hook — Peter Pan pirates perform a song and dance on stage.

SPORTS

APRIL 17, 2012

Sanders takes game to PIT tournament Tyler Eacho tpeacho@liberty.edu

For Jesse Sanders, the 6’3”, 200-pound point guard who just completed his senior season at Liberty University, the journey that competitive sports played at a high level can provide has just begun.

Following the Flames’ first-round exit in the Big South conference tournament, Sanders took two weeks off to rest his body and his mind. Then he got back to work, lifting weights and hitting the gym two times a day, playing one-on-one, shooting around and participating in the team workout.

It didn’t take long for Sanders to learn that he had been invited to play in the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament in Portsmouth, Va. The tournament, which is in its 60th year of existence, provides an oppor- SANDERS tunity for 64 of the nation’s best seniors to showcase their talents in front of scouts from NBA teams and professional teams abroad.

“It’s an honor to be invited to play in

the Portsmouth Invitational and it has given me a wonderful opportunity to show NBA scouts what I am capable of doing,” Sanders said.

The tournament is set up with eight teams consisting of eight players, one NBA coach and two local high school coaches. Each team, named for local sponsors, is given the opportunity to play in three games over a four day period.

Sanders’ team, Sales System LTD, played in its first game on Thursday, losing 7471 in overtime. In 16 minutes of play, he finished 0-4 from the field but managed to have four assists.

“The first game was not my best show-

ing,” Sanders said. “The team was still feeling each other out and I didn’t get the chance to have the ball in my hands very often.”

In the team’s second game, an 89-87 win, Sanders played two times the minutes that he played in the first game, and his statistics improved greatly.

He finished the game with 10 points, eight rebounds and five assists.

“The second game was definitely my best game. I got the opportunity to have the ball in my hands and I was able to run the offense and find the open guys,” Sanders said.

See SANDERS, B2

Tri takes second

mountainous measures

Brent Washburn bwashburn2@liberty.edu

Nate Brown | Liberty Champion

Big show — At Snowflex’s upcoming Dew Games, riders will bust huge tricks in the Big Air competition.

Dew Games biggest yet Next weekend’s Snowflex event features pro riders, huge jumps and new rails Brent Washburn bwashburn@liberty.edu

W

ith $10,000 up for grabs, there is no doubt that the Dew Games at Liberty Mountain Snowflex Centre is the competitive highlight for freestyle skiers and snowboarders from all around the southeast.

This year’s Dew Games is April 28 and is going to be better than ever with new features and more

advanced riders.

The Games will consist of a big air event and a rail jam. The riders will be given a few runs to impress the judges and qualify for finals and their shot at the prize money.

“The Dew Games are the largest contest we host every year,” Ski School Director Brent Blakeney said. “It’s kind of our end of the school year contest, and it has our largest prize purse of $10,000.”

The unveiling of a new Snowflex

feature will happen just in time for the Dew Games rail jam. The new feature is a called a stair-set, which consists of a down ledge, a flat-todrop ledge, a hand-rail and instead of stairs, the middle will be a butterbox. The feature will also include one-of-a-kind L.E.D. lights underneath the plastic covering.

Many top-level athletes are expected to be in attendance for this event,

Swimming 500 meters may seem like a good way to avoid a shark attack, biking 16.5 miles may seem like a good way to save gas and running five kilometers may seem like a good way to beat a bear attack, but to the triathlon team it is just another day, another race.

The triathlon team competed at the collegiate community sprint triathlon at Lake Lure, N.C., with both the men’s and women’s team coming in second overall and David Fritz coming in first overall.

Fritz’s time was 1:08:14, with a swim time of 7 minutes, 50 seconds, bike time of 39 minutes, 49 seconds and a run time of 19 minutes, 4 seconds.

Women’s team member Blakely Harris placed highest for Liberty, coming in fifth place. Harris’ time was 1:18:21, with a 9 minute, 29 second swim, 46 minute, 32 second bike and a 19 minute, 56 second run.

Head coach Beth Frackleton emphasized that this event was a “tune-up” because most of the season is in the fall semester, and after winter, everyone is a little stiff and needs time to prepare.

“I think it went very well. Obviously, finishing second shows we’re in the top of our division and still looking very competitive,” Frackleton said.

The team has qualified for nationals and will continue training over the next few weeks preceding the event which is to be held in Tuscaloosa, Ala. in midApril.

“We’re going to be a lot more competitive at nationals,” Frackleton said.

The triathlon team consists of 16 athletes that train in running, swimming and biking to prepare for competitions. They are currently ranked second in men’s and third in women’s in the mid-Atlantic division.

WASHBURN is a sports reporter.

See GAMES, B2

Men’s Tennis hits road block versus Radford Mark Meyers mameyers@liberty.edu

Liberty University’s men’s tennis team was defeated 5-2 Thursday by the nationally ranked Radford Highlanders.

Junior Siim Tuus and sophomore Shea Thomas gave the Flames their two points as they won the No. 1 and No. 2 matches respectively.

Despite winning the top two singles points, Liberty failed to hand Radford its first conference loss of the season.

“Radford stretched us out a lot,” head coach Chris Johnson said. “They revealed to us some things we need to work on for the conference championships.”

The Flames had the lead in all three doubles matches but were unable to hold on in two of them, costing the Flames the all important doubles point.

“We just lost momentum,” Johnson said. “We had several chances to go up and we kept allowing them to hang around ,and we can’t do that against good teams. We had a problem with closing matches here today.”

Tuus defeated sophomore Nicholas Sayer 6-4, 6-4. Sayer was ranked No. 105 in the country heading into the match and is the reigning Big South Freshman of the Year. Winning a match against a ranked opponent was a big boost of confidence for Tuus.

“It was a good win against a ranked player,” said Tuus. “I need to stay focused, though, and not get comfortable with my game. I need to keep improving.”

Throughout the match Tuus could be heard telling himself to focus on closing out each game.

Tuus finished the regular season with a singles record of 14-6 and is looking to take that success into the post season.

Thomas defeated senior Igor Ogrizek in straight sets 6-4, 6-2.

Thomas kept Ogrizek off balance, forcing him to run side to side.

See TENNIS, B3

Ruth Bibby | Liberty Champion

battle tested — The Flames were unable to put a blemish on Radford’s conference record.

SPORTS

B2/Liberty Champion

April 17, 2012

Freshman standout up ‘Close’ Alex Close has provided a reliable bat in the No. 5 slot, as well as a solid glove at first base Greg Leasure gleasure@liberty.edu

The Liberty Flames baseball team has enjoyed a steady flow of offense this season and has even found power in some unexpected places. That power source is Alex Close.

A freshman who opened the season playing sparingly at three different positions, Close is now the team’s everyday first baseman, thanks mostly to his batting skills. He leads the team with six home runs.

“I’ve been working with coach (Matt) Hagen on staying back and getting power in my swing,” Close said. “It’s been paying off.”

An extra bonus that came from Close’s power surge was more playing time.

“It’s awesome,” Close said.

“I’ve played a lot more than I thought I was going to coming into the year. It’s been a blessing, and hopefully I can continue to do whatever is necessary to help us win.”

Earlier in the season, Close started a game on the mound and caught a few innings as well.

Even more impressive is that it took two injuries for Close to get his chance. Catcher Danny Grauer began the season injured, forcing first baseman and catcher Trey Wimmer behind the plate. Close and Ryan Cordell then split time at first base, but Cordell became Michael Robertson’s replacement in right field when Robertson was lost for the year with a leg injury, opening the door for Close.

“He (Robertson) actually got

Editorial:

Nate Brown | Liberty Champion

Power — Close (12) has become a major part of the Flames offense, leading the team with six home runs this season. hurt diving into third,” Close said. “He stole third, and I was on first. I stole behind him, and it got me my first stolen base. I always give him a hard time about that.”

Speed may not be Close’s

strong suit, but offense is a different story.

“I just love to hit,” Close said.

“There’s no other way to put that one.”

Some freshmen might have gotten caught up in offensive sta-

tistics, but Close retains his teamoriented mindset.

“I think the highlight of my season has got to be just the amount of wins we’ve had, and seeing so many guys succeed at so many different things has

been kind of cool to see as a freshman.”

Close is a business finance major from Hoover, Ala. and, like most freshmen, he still has a few years to figure out what he wants to do after college.

“I don’t really know, to be honest,” Close said. “I’ll probably end up somewhere down south again, in the business world.”

When his playing days are over, he’s not sure whether baseball will have anything to do with his career, but he is certainly open to the idea.

“I’m not 100 percent sure yet,” Close said. “I’d love to be involved in the game somehow.”

He lived in Georgia until his move to Alabama during his junior year of high school, which explains why his favorite baseball team is the Atlanta Braves. Close used to travel down to Atlanta and see his favorite player, Chipper Jones, play all the time. He also enjoys watching basketball and football in his free time.

Halfway through his first year as a college baseball player, Close’s favorite part about the collegiate game is the environment.

“Every single game, it feels like it’s a battle, and there’s so much on the line,” Close said.

As the end of the season approaches, he is looking forward to participating in his first conference tournament and, hopefully, his first regional. If the team does get that far, Close will be an important part of the battle.

LEASURE reporter.

is

a

sports

MLB’s Ozzie Guillen is in trouble again

Andrew Woolfolk alwoolfolk@liberty.edu

Ozzie Guillen has outdone himself this time. The outspoken manager of the Miami Marlins recently found himself in hot water for making another absurd, off-thewall and offensive comment. This time, Guillen felt the need to express his opinions on Cuban dictator Fidel Castro.

To paraphrase, Woolfolk Guillen praised the Cuban dictator for his avoidance of being overthrown during his 60-year reign over the country.

At last count, Miami happens to be the location of over 850,000 Cuban-Americans, the most of any city in America. Not surprisingly, Guillen’s comment did not sit well with them.

Nice choice, Ozzie.

A contrite Guillen held a press confer-

ence to try to clear his name, claiming his quote was misconstrued and misunderstood.

“This is the worst mistake of my life,” Guillen said. “I’m here on my knees to apologize.”

Still, many Cuban-Americans in the city and others all over the country are still shocked and offended by the remark.

Some called for Guillen to be suspended for the year, and many others called for him to be fired immediately.

The Marlins organization released a statement expressing their disapproval, publicly reprimanding Guillen for his carelessness and suspending him for five games.

Yet the remarks can’t come as too big of a shock. This is the same manager who routinely launched into profanity-laced tirades in postgame interviews with his former team, the Chicago White Sox. In 2006, he was fined $20,000 by the MLB for directing a homosexual slur toward a Chicago newspaper reporter. Miami officials knew who they were hiring. From the moment his managerial duties began

FYI Ozzie Guillen was suspended a total of five games for “pro-Castro” comments made in a Time Magazine article.

Guillen later apologized for his comments, saying he was “apologizing on his knees.”

at Miami, the question was not a matter of “if ” he would say something controversial, but “when.”

Now the debate begins over whether or not the punishment fits the crime. Some cry foul, saying that his liberties of free speech are being infringed upon.

This argument doesn’t hold water, though. Private organizations have the right to punish employees if they judge their conduct to be detrimental to their image. As long as the offender isn’t being reprimanded solely because of their religion, culture or gender, the company has

the power to discipline how they feel necessary. Guillen said something offensive, the Marlins realized that, and they took action how they saw fit. That’s their right, and they used it accordingly.

Others say the punishment was too lenient and that Guillen should have been fired. I see it this way: if the organization wants to risk alienating a large portion of their fan base and is comfortable going forward with a manager who has the potential to launch into another offensive tirade in the near future, then more power to them. Perhaps keeping Guillen as manager is punishment enough.

For now, the Marlins are hoping a situation such as this doesn’t happen again.

If it does, Guillen will be gone, and he knows it.

Guillen praised Castro’s longevity, but he probably should be more focused on his own.

WOOLFOLK is a sports reporter.

GAMES continued from B1

SANDERS continued from B1

specifically Ryan Paul, who came to the Snowflex Centre last summer to teach camps.

Paul has an excellent track record in rail jam contests and placed second at the X-Games rail jam this past January.

“In the previous two years, there have mainly been riders from up and down the east coast,” Blakeney said. “This year we are trying to and hopefully pulling riders from as far out west as Colorado and one potential rider from California.

So we are enjoying the fact that we are going to be able to call it a national competition.”

Many of Snowflex’s own riders have been working on tricks for the Games the entire season, and the final is expected to come down to double-flip variations, be it a double-cork or a double rodeo.

Journey 2 the Jumps will also be hosted that evening. In this event students volunteer to train

In the third and final game, Sanders’ team lost 88-71. He finished with four points, five rebounds and five assists.

“Obviously, my statistics weren’t as good as they were at Liberty but the competition is much better than what we usually face in the Big South,” Sanders said. “Everybody here is player of the year or first-team, all-conference.”

Sanders knows that he is not the biggest or most athletic player being looked at, so he has spent his time focusing on his basic skills.

“One thing I was focused on, because I’m not going to be the most athletic guy, was making sure that my skills were at the top level,” Sanders said. “I was able to pressure the ball and move the ball laterally well, so I think I made some good impressions.”

Because Sanders is not the biggest or most athletic point guard and because he played for a midmajor, he has spent less time in the national spotlight during his

Nate Brown | Liberty Champion

Grinding — Riders will compete for a $10,000 purse. to hit jumps and throw down tricks in an attempt to win an entire setup of gear.

There are two coaches to each team and many of the competitors have been training hard all semester for their shot at winning a Snowflex event.

Journey 2 the Jumps will open for the Dew Games final and the riders never cease to be amazed at how much they can learn in two months, starting

with no experience at hitting jumps.

The Games will be hosted this year by Kevin Pierce, and ski and snowboard qualifiers will begin at 2 p.m. Finals will begin at 9 p.m. Journey 2 the Jumps will be held between qualifiers and finals at 8 p.m. and will be streaming live over the Internet.

WASHBURN is a sports reporter.

career and getting noticed often takes some help.

“I am extremely grateful to my agent, Sam Porter, and to coach Dale Layer for doing everything that they have done for me,” Sanders said. “Because I didn’t receive as much national attention, they had to make a lot of calls and they really pushed the issue for me and I am grateful for the opportunity.”

Sanders hopes to make the most of the opportunity that he has been given to showcase his talents in front of some of the most powerful people in the game of basketball. Maybe one day soon, he will be playing in a NBA uniform.

EACHO is a sports reporter.

SPORTS

April 17, 2012

Liberty Champion/B3

Spring Game begins football season Kyle Harvey

2012 Football Schedule

kharvey@liberty.edu

The Liberty Flames football team will be giving fans a sneak peek at next season’s team on Saturday, April 21. In addition to the many new players, Turner Gill will make his debut on the sideline as head coach of the Flames.

The game will give Gill and his staff a chance to assess players in a different environment than the usual practice.

“We’re still going to treat this as an evaluation for us. It’s a practice. It’s a game-like environment for us, so we’ll get a chance to see guys, how they play in front of fans, so that’s going to be good for us to have that opportunity,” Gill said.

For the players and coaching staff, the spring game is the culmination of 13 spring practices, including three scrimmages closed to the public.

“I see our guys coming together, they want to get better.

They’re coming in, meeting with our coaches and wanting to learn and wanting to know what’s going on to get themselves better,” Gill said.

For fans looking to attend the game, gates will open at noon.

Kickoff is expected at about one o’ clock. The game will follow a unique format, with two halves each timed differently.

The first half will consist of

Editorial:

Sept. 1 at Wake Forest Sept. 8 vs. Norfolk St. Sept. 15 at Montana Sept. 22 vs. Lehigh Oct. 6 vs.

Gardner-Webb Oct. 13 at Presbyterian Oct. 20 vs. Concord Oct. 27 at Costal Carolina Nov. 3 vs.

Charleston Southern Nov. 10 vs.

Stony Brook Nov. 17 at VMI Ruth Bibby | Liberty Champion

off the blocks — The Liberty Flames look to showcase their abilities for the first time in public. two 12 minute periods, while the second half will be a simple 25minute running clock. Besides the game clock, the game will be run just like a regular game, the only exception being that there will be no kickoffs or punts.

Should either team encounter a

fourth down situation, the ball will simply be moved 40 yards down the field to imitate a punt.

The first team offense and defense will wear red uniforms and the second team offense and defense will wear white.

Half time will feature a trib-

ute to last year’s senior class of players. All seniors present will receive a framed jersey. In addition to the sendoff for the senior class, the coaching staff will present two awards: the Samkon Gado Award for most improved player of the spring and the

NBA title up for grabs

David Massie dwmassie@liberty.edu

The 2012 NBA season is finally coming to an end. The playoff picture is becoming clearer on a daily basis.

As of right now, there are four teams in each conference that have the best chances of hoisting the championship trophy. Three from each conference are obvious frontrunners, but I threw in a dark horse just to make it interesting.

Eastern Conference The Chicago Bulls are an obvious pick to win it all. Not only did coach Tom Thibedeau’s Bulls find a way to go 15-7 without the help of reigning MVP Derrick Rose, but they beat the reigning Eastern Conference Champion Miami Heat twice.

In Miami, Lebron James is having a historic season statistically., but nothing he does in the regular season will matter if he doesn’t win a ring.

Dwayne Wade struggled with nag-

ging injuries. That pretty much sums up the Miami Heat’s 2012 season.

The Boston Celtics led everyone to believe they were too old to be contenders earlier in the season. But, the Celtics 17-7 run in the second half of the season and unleashing of Avery Bradley’s fresh legs on the rest of the league has revitalized the team.

Limping all the way to the finish, Carmelo Anthony and the New York Knicks looked revitalized under interim coach Mike Woodson. If Amare Stoudemire comes back by the playoffs and Iman Shumpert continues to excel as a replacement Jeremy Lin, the Knicks could make a run.

Western Conference Even after three straight losses, the Oklahoma City Thunder will remain a favorite for one reason. The chemistry this team is starting to develop after being built through the draft is slightly frightening for any other team in the league.

It’s been hot in San Antonio. The

Spurs are on their second 11-game winning streak and are starting to get healthy at the right time. Mix in a pinch of finely-aged Greg Popovich and you may have yourself a winning championship recipe.

The Clippers have spent much of 2012 getting to know each other and mourning the loss of Chauncey Billups. That being said, they have won nine of their last 10 games and are looking like the makings of a championship squad.

The minor shin injury Kobe Bryant suffered may have been a blessing in disguise. It gave Kobe some much needed rest after a heavy workload for much of the season.

The Los Angeles Lakers squad, plus a fresh Kobe Bryant heading into the playoffs is a matchup nobody would want to face.

The 2012 playoffs are setting up to be quite a doozy. I think it is safe to say that the championship is attainable by any one of the teams listed.

MASSIE is a sports reporter.

Luke 2:52 award, also known as the Whole Person Development Award.

“Our fans, we hope they all come out and get a chance to see their football team getting ready for the 2012 season,” Gill said.

HARVEY is a sports reporter.

TENNIS continued from B1 Thomas controlled the tempo the entire match and was able to hit the ball where he wanted to.

“I have been playing really well as of late and I just need to continue to play my game,” Thomas said. “I have got to get my first serve percentage back to where it needs to be and work on my court coverage.”

If Thomas can do those things, he will be a key factor in determining how far the Flames can advance in the conference tournament.

Thomas finished the regular season with a singles record of 10-10.

“We know we have a strong doubles squad and we were able to see where we needed to improve,” Johnson said.

“We took the top two points from [Radford] which was huge for us heading into the tournament.”

Johnson said the Flames will have to do a better job of closing out matches and games if they want to make a run for a conference championship.

The match was the first ever Liberty tennis match streamed live on the Big South Network.

“It is great for our program to gain that exposure,” Johnson said.

The Big South conference Tournament will be held Thursday, April 19 – Saturday, April 21 in Asheville, N.C. The Flames will find out Sunday who they will be matched up against.

MEYERS is a sports reporter.

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SPORTS

B4/Liberty Champion

April 17, 2012

Lynchburg fishing season starts Smith Mountain Lake and Lake Kerr are one of many places to fish during the spring Jonathan Pearson

Outdoor report: hiking and fishing

jwpearson@liberty.edu

There are almost two million Virginia-registered fishing permit holders and on average, each angler will spend $175 on bait and tackle a year. This year, the fishing in central Virginia has been unusual due to the mixed weather conditions, and the rest of the fishing season looks to follow suit.

The fishing season started three weeks earlier this year for semi-pro bass fisherman David Plunkett who primarily fishes at Smith Mountain Lake and is on the water nearly every day. “This winter, the fish were feeding more actively than in the past,� Plunkett said. “The smallmouth bass right now on Smith Mountain Lake are in full spawn. The largemouth bass are still feeding, but all the fish are more active now than in past years.�

In the surrounding lakes and rivers, it’s the same story. An indication of how far off this year’s fishing season has been is the early run of the channel catfish. Most of the time, channel cat will not bite on anything before the beginning of May. This year, however, they have been caught as early as March.

Trout are now being released by hatcheries as well. Most of the hatcheries released their fish this past weekend and the hatcheries are also open now for all visitors.

Most agree that summer

Within two hours of Lynchburg, five locations are must-hike spots for the outdoor enthusiast.

McAfee’s Knob (1) is the most photographed location on the Appalachain Trail in Virginia, according to Hiking Upward.com. The 4.4 mile hike culminates in an outstanding view on its famous overhang.

Panther Falls (2) is a Liberty favorite. The falls are nestled in a secluded valley of the Blue Ridge mountains, just an hour up 501N. After the drive, it’s just a short walk from a dirt road turn-off.

Old Rag (3) is a hike for more experienced adventurers, with a formidable rock scramble carpeting the peak. Hiking Upward.com gives Old Rag four stars for difficulty, but six for the view.

St. Mary’s Wilderness (4) can be a short hike or a weekend excursion. It is one of the most popular circuit hikes, according to Hiking Upward.com, and rewards the enthusiast with a scenic waterfall to play in at the end of the trip.

Devil’s Marbleyard (5) tests physical endurance with its truck-sized boulders, but rewards the hiker with a gorgeous view of the Blue Ridge mountains and its valleys.

3

4

2

5

1

Photos by Chris Mabes and Nate Brown fishing will come down to the weather and air temperatures. “If we have an extremely dry and hot summer fishing is going to get really tough,� Plunkett said. “The water level will drop and the fish will pull down and off the banks. However, if we have a cool wet

summer the fishing will be good year round.�

The types of bait to throw has not changed and the fish are still pretty predictable on what they will bite on. Medium diving crank bait and jig hitting has been pulling in the lake bass the best.

Smith Mountain Lake is

the most common choice for fishing, but the Lynchburg area and small clubs affiliated with the lake host a multitude of small tournaments for the public to enter. Other places to go are Lake Kerr, James River, Otter Lake and Lake Fredrick. For those who like to watch the big tournaments

and get free stuff, there are a few tournaments coming to Smith Mountain Lake, one of which is the Oakley Big Bass Tournament this weekend.

Anyone with a pole over the age of sixteen must have fishing licenses and students can save some money by buying a student

fishing license. For more information about places to fish, fishing regulations and in depth fishing reports, visit the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries website.

PEARSON is a sports reporter.

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FEATURE

April 17, 2012

Liberty Champion/B5

Victoria Pearce | Liberty Champion

Victory Lap— Liberty student Josh Isaacson (far left) partakes in the Relay for Life Survivor Lap, where cancer survivors and their caretakers celebrated their victory over the disease to the applause and cheers of other relay participants.

Relay for Life event raises $13 thousand Betsy Abraham babraham3@liberty.edu

While most children were learning how to ride a bike or read, Josh Isaacson was undergoing chemotherapy treatments.

When he was six years old, Isaacson’s life was turned upside down. While on vacation

with his family, his mother noticed that his eye had started to protrude and took him to the hospital. On June 9, 1998, Isaacson was diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma, a type of muscle cancer. The cancer was located closely behind his right eye and nose, which made surgery not an option. Doctors told his family

Victoria pearce | Liberty Champion

standing together — A student run committee organized the overnight Relay for Life, open to anyone in the community.

he had a 20-40 percent chance of surviving.

Isaacson underwent six weeks of radiation and 10 months of chemotherapy. He remembers going to the hospital every week and having to stay there long weekends for chemotherapy treatments. There were also constant doctors visits.

“Doctors thought the damage from radiation would allow me to be a C student at best,” Isaacson said. “It’s only by God’s grace I’ve had a 4.0 GPA through high school and college.”

Thirteen years later, Isaacson is cancer free. On Friday, April 13, he was able to celebrate his victory by participating in Relay for Life, an all-night event that seeks to raise awareness and money for cancer research. Isaacson was one of 387 people who took turns walking around Liberty’s outdoor track for 12 hours, from 5 p.m. to 5 a.m.

This is the second year Isaacson has walked in the relay, and he said that one of the primary reasons he does it is to promote cancer research.

“Without cancer research, I wouldn’t have made it this far,” Isaacson said. “It’s pretty amazing what God can do through doctors and nurses and the treatments they have. I’m so thankful for what the doctors and nurses do, and I want to support them through the Relay for Life.”

With the help of family, friends and professors, Isaacson has raised over $470, almost double his initial goal of $250.

The Liberty Relay for Life was able to raise more than $13,000 for the American Cancer Society.

Throughout the night, students gathered around the track, some selling snacks and baked goods to raise additional money for the cause. Many played games and set up tents to prepare for the long night ahead.

According to Event Chair junior Perry Bobbitt, the overnight event gives people an idea of the

“Cancer never sleeps, and we’re walking all night because someone who’s battling cancer doesn’t get to stop fighting at 5 a.m.”

— Perry BObbit fight those who are affected by cancer go through every day.

“Cancer never sleeps, and we’re walking all night because someone who’s battling cancer doesn’t get to stop fighting at 5 a.m.,” Bobbitt said.

Some students, such as freshman Zac Lamonte, came to the relay to remember loved ones affected by the disease. Lamonte decided to walk for his father, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer the summer before he left for Liberty.

“I had an idea of a bag and a bunch of clothes I would take to go home if I got the call that my dad was about to die from cancer. It was really difficult,” Lamonte said.

For three months, it was unknown what type of treatment Lamonte’s father would undergo. In September 2011, he eventually chose not to do any surgery or radiation, but instead to change the way he ate, moving to a primarily vegan diet.

“I was really concerned for him and was really skeptical about it,” Lamonte said. “It was really difficult, but as the semester went on he started saying he was feeling a lot better.”

By Christmas 2011, Lamonte’s father’s counts were below the warning level.

“Effectively he’s beaten it, but he’s still battling with it,” Lamonte said.

One of the major events of the night was the Luminaria Ceremony. During this, hundreds of candles in white paper bags were lit. Written on the bags were the names of loved ones who had died from or were currently battling cancer.

“Visual representation will really be what helps it hit home.

When I see that (the bags) it helps me know I’m not the only one, my family’s not the only one. There are hundreds of thousands of people out there battling this,” Lamonte said.

Bonnie Gibson walked the Survivors Lap, the opening event where cancer survivors and their caretakers walk around the track, for her daughter who overcame leukemia.

“When people cheer and clap it makes you feel really blessed,” Gibson said. “People just have a great time celebrating life and remembering those that have passed on and celebrating those that have fought the fight and survived. It gives people a sense of togetherness.”

Sophomore Taylor Showalter came out to support her friends and walked in remembrance of her grandmother who died of cancer. “(Tonight) definitely makes a big difference. Seeing students gathering together and pouring out money and prayers, and seeing people from the community coming together is great and teaches us to stop and remember that God has blessed us with life,” Showalter said.

ABRAHAM is the assistant feature editor.

New website connects runners in central VA Emily Bass

embass@liberty.edu

Looking to share his love of running, local resident Josh Austin offers encouragement through the World Wide Web. Josh Austin, founder of Central Virginia’s newest resource for local runners, has designed a website that connects racers with upcoming events.

This past March, while Austin and a few of his friends were talking on a Friday night, they concluded that there should be a website specifically for runners that would connect them to races, race results

and information about running tailored to their location. By Monday morning, CVA Running was a functional part of the Internet.

“I wanted to create one single place to find out what’s going on with runners in the area,” Austin said. Austin expresses an overwhelming desire to connect runners and keep them plugged into community resources and events.

For Austin, running has been a love affair ever since he decided to start.

“Why did I start running? That’s a good question,” Josh Austin said. “I was severely overweight

and I had to do something.”

Austin’s passion for running is contagious, as he explains that Lynchburg has actually been named the most “runnerfriendly” community in America. So many people in the Central Virginia area are passionate about this healthy pastime, so Austin saw an opportunity to meet a need.

“Running is cheap,” Austin said. “You really only need a pair of shoes, and even that’s questionable.”

Austin feels that running is an economical way to lose weight and achieve a healthy lifestyle

while helping residents connect with their community. Austin’s goals in creating this runners website is to unite Lynchburg, Va. with surrounding cities such as Roanoke and Charlottesville and eventually, to have each community take turns hosting a race weekend that would provide some healthy competition and a challenge for runners seeking to improve.

Sarah Levesque, a senior at Liberty, enjoys running as a pastime and has participated in numerous races in the Central Virginia area.

“I would totally use this website,” Levesque said.

“This could be a really great resource for linking runners all over the area.”

Austin also stresses that CVA Running is not a website meant to reproduce the contents of other event homepages, but instead a website that has information about running that can also connect runners by linking to race homepages specific to the runner’s location.

“We don’t care about your terrain preference or skill level. This is a website for all kinds of runners,” Austin said.

To start using cvarunning.com, simply type in the address, visit the events page and check

the calendar for races in different Central Virginia communities organized by terrain and distance preferences. CVA Running also houses a blog as well as Facebook and Twitter accounts that users of the website are encouraged to connect with.

Austin encourages runners to visit CVA Running before lacing up to connect with like-minded runners and enhance the Lynchburg community.

BASS is a feature reporter.

FEATURE

B6/Liberty Champion

April 17, 2012

Local blog popularizes modesty

Liberty senior Sarah Joyner advocates for the adoption of holy dressing through fashion website Kayla Gurley kgurley@liberty.edu

Who said girls can’t be fashionable and modest at the same time? According to the blog Fearlessly Chique, girls can keep up with the latest trends without giving into the media’s lies that midriffs should show and necklines should plunge.

Senior Sarah Joyner said she felt a passion to reach young girls for Christ by stressing the importance of modesty after she gave her life to Christ. According to Joyner, she talked with her professor, Ruth Gomez, about the idea to start a modesty blog, and Gomez agreed to help her with the project. “My sophomore year in college, God revealed to me during my quiet time that he wanted me to reach young girls for him,�

Joyner said. “Before I met Christ I lived immodestly, but now I know that how I dress is a reflection of my character, and I want other girls to take hold of that truth.�

Fearlessly Chique provides fresh ideas for making current styles work for girls who desire to be modest in their wardrobe, such as pairing a cropped top with a high-waisted skirt, turning a revealing midriff piece into a workable, modest outfit. “While fashion is important and fun, I feel I have

Photo Provided | Liberty Champion

What not to wear — Fearlessly Chique offers outfit ideas, devotionals and more to girls seeking to dress fashionably with modesty. totally missed the mark if I did not include the spiritual aspect of modesty on the blog as well,� Joyner said.

In addition to the blog’s fashion posts and videos, the site features daily devotionals that aim to encourage and grow young girls spiritually. “Girls need a healthy

balance of knowing who they are in Christ first, and living in fear of the Lord, yet fearlessly before men,�

Joyner said. “That idea is actually where we got the idea for the name of the blog.�

Several Liberty University students have utilized the blog as a resource for fashion, and sophomore

Lindsay Lewis is one of them. “Some girls say they can’t find anything modest to wear,â€? Lewis said. “This blog gives some simple and practical tips on dressing modestly and fashionably as well. I especially like the section on guys’ thoughts about the issue because so many girls are naĂŻve about

how guys think.�

According to Joyner, a panel of guys was recently asked what modesty means to them, and their responses were posted on the blog.

The guys each took turns discussing how modesty is much more than clothing choices and how it is a reflection of holiness. “It is important as

Christian women that we watch out for our brothers and do not wear anything that would cause them to stumble,� Joyner said. “I think for girls to hear from a guy that modesty really is a big deal, it helps them to understand they need to dress respectfully for God, and out of respect for themselves and their brothers in Christ.�

Joyner said she hopes that in the future this blog will become the main source that girls turn to in order to get fashion advice, as opposed to the magazines and movies that feed lies about how girls should dress. “Modesty doesn’t happen overnight. It is a process of surrendering to God and knowing that the outside body will all eventually fade away, but a girl’s character and heart will last forever.�

Fearlessly Chique is hosting an event called “We are the Light� April 19 from 7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. where Shari Falwell will speak on Matthew 5 about how Christians are supposed to be the light of the world. The seminar will be followed by a time of worship and a fashion show of all the latest trends for Summer 2012.

For more information, visit Fearlessly Chique’s blog at fearlesslychique. blogspot.com.

GURLEY is a feature reporter.

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FEATURE

April 17, 2012

Liberty Champion/B7

Art brightens up ILRC Desiree Wheeler dwheeler4@liberty.edu

Creativity and freedom of expression reigned supreme at Liberty University’s 13th annual Juried Art Show which began on Friday, April 13. The exhibit was hosted by the Studio and Digital Arts Department and showcased 45 students’ work in the Integrated Learning Resource Center (ILRC).

The art pieces were chosen by a designated juror prior to their inclusion in the exhibit. This year’s juror was the President and Founder of B2B Studio, Brad Blackburn. B2B studio is a digital arts organization that has aided countless clients with design assistance, including design work for Thomas Road Baptist Church’s Charles Billingsley.

A total of 70 pieces of student work were submitted in categories including photography, drawing, painting, graphic design and mixed media. The art will remain available for viewing in the ILRC through the end of the semester.

“We had a lot of work entered this year. Our judge was really impressed with the breadth of work as well.

I was really pleased with the quality of the work that was submitted to the show,” Chair of the Department of Studio and Digital Arts and Associate Professor of Communication Studies Todd Smith said. “As a juried show, not every piece makes it in. This kind of competition encourages students to go to the next level so that the work they enter is better.”

“The Juried Art Show

NeedtoBreathe to play at Vines Betsy Abraham babraham3@liberty.edu

is an excellent opportunity for any Liberty student to put their work ‘out there’ for the student body to enjoy. Our department really loves letting art be a point of excitement and beauty for the University, so having some of the student’s best work on display is our way of reminding every viewer of the original Creator and the beauty of His creation,” secretary and gallery assistant for the Studio and Digital Arts department Katelyn Coogan said.

Awards are given each year for the art submitted.

Awards include Best of Show, First, Second, Third and Honorable mention in each category. Students of all majors were able to submit their work.

“The growth and influence of the visual arts at Liberty University is pretty remarkable in my opinion.

The engine that helps propel this, in part, is the Studio and Digital Art department.

The department helps provide a context for creativity and artistic expression

Michael johnson | Liberty Champion

ON DISPLAY — Students can currently view the best of their classmates work throughout the ILRC . through its curriculum, student clubs and competitions,” Smith said.

The Juried Art Show is one of several exhibits the Studio and Digital Art department puts on every year. Other events include Fall Guest Artist Exhibit, Senior Art Shows, Largerthan-Life exhibit, Professors Choice, Photography exhibits and many others.

“Our students are continuously encouraged to design for the glory of God and to reflect his creativity in all they do. Given these ingre-

dients, students rise to the occasion. I constantly hear from students who see their artistic activity as an act of worship. Our ultimate goal is to prepare students to take this approach into the field of art as designers, art educators, art critics, curators, and so on,” Smith said.

For more information about future events, visit the Studio and Digital Arts Studio Department on Liberty’s website.

WHEELER is a feature reporter.

NeedtoBreathe will be playing at the Vines Center April 23 as part of the nationwide Reckoning Tour.

NeedtoBreathe is a four-piece band that started in 2000 and is signed to Atlantic Records. With four records under their belt, the group has sold out shows and garnered attention from major outlets such as MTV and USA Today.

The group has opened for acts such as Taylor Swift and Switchfoot and gained recognition in both the Christian and secular market. According to Relevant Magazine, the group has had its music featured in popular shows such as Desperate Housewives and Prison Break and won two Dove awards.

The band’s South Carolina roots are evident in their music, which blends old school rock and roll with a folksy sound.

Their latest CD, The Reckoning, which features singles such as “Drive All Night” and “Slumber,” is their fourth full-length album. The group played at Liberty a few years ago and Stephanie Ward, promotions manager for Student Activities, said their recent album release provided a great opportunity to bring the band back.

“We wanted to give students the option of coming to a show apart from CFAW weekends, and Needtobreathe was the perfect choice. If you haven’t seen them in concert, it’s going to be something to look forward to,” Ward said.

Opening for the band will be Ben Rector, an alternative singer whose sound is reminiscent of Gavin DeGraw and Dave Barnes. Rector recently released his fourth CD, Something Like This, in September 2011.

Tickets are now on sale at the Vines Center Box Office and are $10 for students when purchased in advance.

For more information about NeedtoBreathe, go to needtobreathe.net.

For more information about Ben Rector, go to benrectormusic.com.

ABRAHAM is the assistant feature editor.

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FEATURE

APRIL 17, 2012

Ruth Bibby| Liberty Champion

Forever YOUNG— Students Colton Montgomery (left) and Caleb Hughes (middle) collaborated with other underclassmen and alumni for the production of Peter Pan which opened April 13 in the Tower Theater.

Peter Pan unleashes imagination Shelanne Jennings snjennings@liberty.edu

“I think the word I would use to describe the show is ‘magical,’” Liberty junior Carson Burkett, who played John Darling, said as he interacted with the crowd after Peter Pan’s opening performance.

The musical Peter Pan, which is Alluvion Stage Company’s première production, took flight Friday, April 13. The show, which is based on the original play by Sir James M. Barrie, soared with imaginative sets and colorful characters, entertaining people of all ages.

“This was above and beyond anything I could have expected,” Lynchburg resident Latonya Carter, who came with her 8-year-old daughter, said. “I’ve traveled and taken Sydney to see different things since she was little in Richmond and other areas.

To have this here is awesome.”

Student actors and alumni performed together for this wellknown story of the boy who never grew up, taking on the roles of pirates, fairies, Indians and children whose imagination and energy offered valuable lessons.

“This performance is more geared toward the adults because it’s all about growing up and realizing the responsibility of what that entails,” Burkett said. “It’s kind of tragic that everyone decides to grow up except for Peter. So in that aspect, I feel we’ve geared it more toward the adults, but the kids still find it beautiful and hysterical and love it.”

Alluvion Stage Company, a not-for-profit professional theater company that operates in conjunction with Liberty University, has opened doors for alumni to return to the Tower Theater stage to act alongside current underclassmen.

“It’s very surreal to be in a professional company that took its birth from where you went to school. It’s such an amazing opportunity that they asked me to be in it,” 2011 Liberty graduate Sarah Haley, who returned to perform as an ensemble member, said.

Other alumni who returned for Peter Pan were Erica Geffken, David Pickle, Laura Henriquez, Lynnae Gerbracht and Liberty’s Professor Chris Nelson, who brought the role of Captain Hook to life.

“There is so much energy up on the stage. It’s great,” Nelson said. “It’s fun being up on the stage with the students, just acting, listening and enjoying the characters of the story.”

According to Director Linda Nell Cooper, seeing the mix of graduates and current students interact on stage was an exciting experience.

“It was fun working with the alumni again and seeing them mix and mingle with the underclassmen,” Cooper said, “and realizing they went before them and really got the underclassmen to where they are now, and just seeing that heritage and that history mix together.”

The Alluvion cast will be performing Peter Pan in Liberty’s Tower Theater April 19 through 21 and 26 through 28 at 7:30 p.m., April 21 and 28 at 2 p.m., April 22 and 29 at 2:30 p.m. and April 24 for school groups at 10 a.m.

For more information about Alluvion and the Peter Pan production, visit alluvionstage.com.

JENNINGS is the feature editor.

Ruth Bibby | Liberty Champion

TO NEVERLAND—The play’s villain, Captain Hook, played by Nelson, causes chaos for the band of travelers.

SGA Hosts Annual Gala The Golden Age of Hollywood comes to Williams Stadium

Dan Garcia dtgarcia@liberty.edu

Black suits, bowler hats and big band tunes — Hollywood’s Golden Age had arrived in fashion on Liberty University’s campus.

Hosting the Junior/Senior Gala (SGA) for the second consecutive year, the Student Government Association opted for a 1930s and 40s theme for the gala, channeling the era of Frank Sinatra and James Stewart. Black, silver and gold balloons decorated the upper level of Williams stadium, and the Liberty University Jazz Ensemble provided the soundtrack for an evening that mirrored the past.

“The SGA has been wanting to do an old event on campus for the whole year,” SGA Senior Class

President Thomas Turner said. “We saw the opportunity last semester, and we made the theme of the gala be the Golden Age of Hollywood.”

The event started at 8 p.m. on Saturday, April 14.

Turner said that he had been planning the event since January, and that all proceeds from the event would go toward the Jerry Falwell Memorial Library.

Ruth Bibby | Liberty Champion Attendees received the Dressed to the NInes — Students Phoebe and Robby Waller, Rebecca Garrett and Luke Riddell (left to theme well, bearing their right) came out in their best for the Junior/Senior Gala Saturday in Williams Stadium. interpretations of the era’s fashion. Styled hair and and the theme, so it was But the gala’s apparel really enjoyed just min“The gala is a laid-back dress hats abounded, in- definitely my first choice.” and music were only part gling with people that I experience,” Turner said. cluding a girl wearing finLike Black, senior Lind- of its classy taste: crab haven’t seen in a while.”

“People can just come, gerless gloves and a black sey Churchill was among cakes, shrimp and chocoWith the fashion, friends relax, socialize with each veil. Junior James Black the many students who late mousse topped with and fine food it featured, other, get to know other sesported his tuxedo. enjoyed the gala’s theme. strawberries were available the SGA’s Junior/Senior niors, other juniors, make “I automatically knew She said she spent time re- as refreshments through- Gala provided students connections before they that it was going to be a searching the time period’s out the evening. with a respite from the graduate...it’s just a night tux (event),” he said, refer- fashion before attending.

“I’m impressed with the often-busy schedules that of enjoyment.” ring to his choice of dress, “I love the 30s and 40s,” quality of the food that characterize the end of the “because number one I Churchill said. “I think they’ve had so far,” junior semester by bringing a by- GARCIA is a feature reporter. dress to represent the Lord they pinned fashion.”

Pat O’Hara said. “I’ve also gone era back to life.