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libertychampion.com
Volume 31 • Issue 1
Pixar Idea
a new year
Graduate’s blog article goes viral Tobi Walsh twalsh12@liberty.edu
It all started with the watching of a video. One video was all it took to inspire Liberty University alumnus Jon Negroni to write “The Pixar Theory,” an article that quickly went viral across the web. “Every Pixar movie is connected. I explain how, and possibly why,” Negroni wrote at the beginning of his blog post. After watching the video “Why Pixar Movies are All Secretly About the Apocalypse” on Cracked.com, which could not tie all the movies together, Negroni said he decided it was time for him to come up with his own theory. “It started as a comment on the video and grew into a 20 minute conversation I had with various friends,” Negroni said. “Over the course of a year, I began to seriously consider writing everything out on my blog, especially since it was such a hit with friends. So I did. And the rest is history.” After a friend posted the link to Negroni’s article on Reddit, the article was picked up by The Huffington Post and BuzzFeed. “It happened a month
ago, and it still hasn’t sunk in,” Negroni said. “I never expected the theory to be read by more than a couple thousand people, let alone hundreds of millions.” In his theory, Negroni loops together all 14 Pixar movies by showing that all the movies take place in the same universe. “I watched each Pixar movie about four or five times each,” Negroni said. “I had to watch ‘Monsters Inc.’ and ‘A Bug’s Life’ the most since they were the toughest to tie into the theory.” Negroni graduated from Liberty in May 2012 with a bachelor’s degree in public relations and advertising. Currently, he works at Thriveworks as a public relations specialist and at Startup Addict as a freelance writer. Negroni said that being at Liberty really helped him become a better writer. “Liberty is fully responsible for my growth, starting with Professor Bonebright forcing me to start a blog to Dr. Widgeon teaching me how to never stop having big ideas,” Negroni said. “I owe all of my success to them and the school.”
Ruth Bibby| Liberty Champion
CELEBRATION— Freshman Mykie Scanlon and friend enjoy the block party.
See PIXAR, A3
Garden gives campus fresh vegetables
Liberty’s new 70-acre facility will give students a space to develop new skills by growing their own produce
Nathan Skaggs ncskaggs@liberty.edu
A new recreational opportunity became available to students this summer. Liberty University developed a 70-acre tract of land where students may enjoy farming and agriculture. Nestled in a residential area off of Sunnymeade Road sits Liberty’s campus garden, which opened in the summer of 2013.
According to Alicia Cripe, the campus garden manager, the 15 acres of prepared land is home to various fruits, vegetables and herbs, which include watermelon, zucchini and basil. “The basic idea for the campus garden is really to provide students with new skills: skills to learn how to grow food,” Cripe said. The Morris Campus Garden, the garden’s official name, allows students to take
part in preparing the soil, planting the seed and harvesting the crops that they have grown. Some of the garden’s vegetables will be served by Sodexo in the Reber-Thomas Dining Hall. “We are extremely anxious to be able to incorporate the ingredients that come from the garden into our daily recipes at Reber-Thomas,” Craig Dasuta, Sodexo’s district executive chef, said. Cripe stated that she is working on pro-
viding students with a way of knowing which produce in the dining hall is from the garden. She hopes to achieve this by adding signs where the produce is being served. Cripe believes this is a great way to get students excited about the garden.
See GARDEN, A2
The roadtrip of a lifetime Courtney Sharp csharp2@liberty.edu
A group of seven students from Liberty University went on the Roadtrip of a Lifetime (ROALT) this summer in a Liberty van for one month. During this time they documented the beauty of God’s creation while spreading the gospel through music.
“For the past four years I have just been finding pictures online of beautiful places that I wanted to go to, and I put them all in a folder, keep(ing) them in the back of my mind,” Timothy Riordan, Liberty Campus Praise Band member, said. “May of last year I was in the car with Colin and said, ‘Man, we should go on a roadtrip next summer.’”
According to Timothy Riordan, the pictures in the folder are how the roadtrip idea began to take form. They called friends that they thought would be interested and, before they knew it, they had a group of guys together. Jonathan Riordan, Justin Smith, Philip Godley, Keller Hopkins and Tom Madison agreed to join Timothy Riordan and Colin Mu-
rik on this journey. “Justin Smith and I scheduled a meeting with Johnnie Moore sometime in March… (and) he passed it on to marketing,” Timothy Riordan said. “Five days before leaving, Justin Smith Facebook messaged Chancellor Jerry Falwell, Jr. explaining the trip.
See TRIP, A7
Photo Provided
TRAVEL— ROALT take a moment to overlook the Grand Canyon.
INSIDE THE CHAMPION News
Sports
Feature
Liberty mourns the loss of beloved student. A2
Flames baseball players take home summer league titles. B1
Students attend annual Block Party Saturday, Aug 24. B7
News Opinion Sports Feature
A1 A4 B1 B8
NEWS
AUGUST 27, 2013
Liberty Champion/A2
Theatre raises millions
Lynchburg’s Academy of Fine Arts prepares for large-scale facility makeover Joshua Janney jjanney@liberty.edu
Photo Provided
MCKEOWN — She was soon to be a senior.
Liberty mourns loss Sophia Hahn shahn3@liberty.edu
Beloved, 23-year-old Liberty University student, Sarah McKeown died peacefully in her sleep Saturday, Aug. 17, just days before returning to Liberty, Vice President of Communications Executive Projects and Spiritual Programs Johnnie Moore said. McKeown was heavily involved at Liberty as a graphic design major and a member of both the marching band and the crew team. According to Dr. Stephen Kerr, director of the marching band, McKeown was a core member of the band and was always “loving and energetic.” “She could always be counted on to help a weaker performer, uplift the spirits of a member who was having a tough day or to share her testimony of what the Lord was doing in her life,” Kerr said. “Sarah was faithful and knew the meaning of commitment and loyalty, virtues that are reflective of her desire to please the band, faculty and her Lord.” McKeown’s friends around campus describe her in many different ways, but they all have one thing in common. She had a knack for making people happy and showing the love of Christ. “She always kept you on your toes, and you never knew what to expect from her,” Brianna O’Neal, a crew teammate said. “One thing we have all learned from Sarah is to set goals and work hard, but never be afraid to be yourself when doing so.” According to Dr. Kenneth Cleaver, McKeown’s theology professor, McKeown was insightful and comfortable in her own skin. “She was passionate about the truth, but never to the compromise of showing love,” Cleaver said. Cleaver also said McKeown was known for being spontaneous, outgoing and fearless of the judgment of others. “She was a thoughtful student, and even though she was in a large class, she would ask the questions everyone else was thinking but didn’t want to ask,” Cleaver said. “She was bold in that way, unafraid of the social consequences of being embarrassed in front of her peers.” According to the Liberty News Service, Chancellor Jerry Falwell, Jr. expressed the university’s sorrow about the death of this unique Liberty student. “The Liberty University community is deeply saddened by the sudden loss of Sarah McKeown,” Falwell said in an online article. “Sarah messaged me on Facebook on at least one snowy morning, urging me to cancel classes. She was very outgoing and popular among her fellow students. It is obvious she was loved by them and that she represented her university well as a true Champion for Christ. She will be greatly missed.” HAHN is the news editor.
The Academy of Fine Arts’ campaign to restore the historic Academy of Music Theatre has gathered more than $2 million since being launched March 7, 2013. According to Tanya Fischoff, marketing director of the Academy of Fine Arts, there had been a small amount of silent fundraising for the historic theatre last year. However, the bulk of the money came in the past five months when organizations such as Liberty University and the Timken Foundation offered their financial contributions. “There are a lot of organizations that have partnered and participated in funding for this campaign,” Fischoff Sam Chappell| Liberty Champion said. “The total project cost is $16.6 million, and right now we’ve brought RENOVATION — Fischoff looks at the theatre badly in need of repair. in (more than $2 million).” According to Fischoff, with the first According to Fischoff, Liberty’s in- Academy of Music Theatre was home terest in the historic theatre predates to a large variety of traveling entertain- phase of restoration complete, the the campaign. The university previ- ers and performers. The growing pop- Academy of Fine Arts is looking forously owned the theatre from 1985 - ularity of sound movies and the strug- ward to completing the final phase of 1994 before the ownership went back gles of the Great Depression severely construction, which includes building to the academy. Liberty’s involvement damaged business until the theatre was a two-story connector between the theatre and the administration building. with the campaign began April 10, eventually closed in 1958. In one of the campaign newsletters, According to Fischoff, the academy’s 2013 when the school offered to match up to $500,000 of whatever the Lynch- the Academy of Fine Arts’ Executive goal is to restore the historical theatre burg community raised. The offer was Director David Jenkins claimed that to its former glory by replicating it as changes in the economy were one of close as possible to its 1911 design while matched June 10, three months later. “The people that gave towards the the primary reasons behind the Lynch- still appeasing modern-day regulations. “It’s not necessarily the case where Liberty match had their gifts turned burg community’s renewed interest in we would wait till we had $16.6 milinto a total of $1 million toward our the theatre. “There is a push now for downtown lion to start the construction,” Fischoff campaign,” Fischoff said. “We were excited to meet that challenge and were revitalization,” Fischoff said. “There said. “We’re excited to see it open as thrilled to have a relationship with Lib- is such a community-driven focus on soon as possible as it’s been a long-waiteconomic development and downtown ed project.” erty University.” According to the theatre’s website, revitalization that the academy can reduring its prime in the early 1900s, the ally play a huge role in.” JANNEY is a news reporter.
jillian springer
GARDEN continued from A1 Besides donating to Sodexo, the campus garden contributes several items to Daily Bread, a community soup kitchen where hot meals are served daily. According to Cripe, the garden may become home to chickens, goats and cows sometime in the near future. This would include classroom facilities that could be used by various departments within Liberty that would benefit from access
to a mini-farm. She hopes that one day Liberty will offer gardening as an elective course for undergraduate students. Those working with the garden hope to see students, faculty and staff members have their own plots to use for fundraising events, such as missions trips. “Students seem to be interested because of their passion for missions,” Hayley Van Fossen, a junior student worker at the garden, said. Van Fossen emphasized
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CULTIVATION — Students are encouraged to come to this greenhouse to make their own plot and learn how to garden.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR POLICIES & INFO
how great it feels to be a part of something like the garden that will impact people all over the world in the years to come. Even the Reber-Thomas Dining Hall would like to see this project expand. “My hopes for the future are that we continue to grow this project from produce, to composting from Reber, to a small working farm and having the students reap the benefits from what it produces,” Dasuta said. The Morris Campus Garden was named after Henry
and Elvira Morris who donated the greenhouse once located near DeMoss Hall on Liberty University’s campus. Plans have been made for a dedication ceremony at the campus garden in October, with the family of the late Henry and Elvira Morris present. For more information about the garden, email campusgarden@liberty.edu or call (434) 592-5636. SKAGGS is a news reporter.
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NEWS
AUGUST 27, 2013
Liberty Champion/A3
Aviation sends off pilots for missions The School of Aeronautics graduated six students prepared to fly for the cause of spreading the gospel Omar Adams oadams@liberty.edu
The Liberty University School of Aeronautics graduated its fourth Aircraft Maintenance Training School (AMTS) class Aug. 9. Six of those 20 graduates are moving on to become missionary pilots for Flying Mission Services (FMS) in Botswana where operations can be difficult. Limited resources, remote locations and crude landing strips require missionary pilots to have extensive mechanical knowledge. Although the education is applicable to many aviation careers, the AMTS focuses on preparing students explicitly for work in missionary aviation. “FMS is unique in the missions aviation world because it operates as a for-profit business doing charter flights out to safari camps and medical evacuation flights for the government,� graduate and certified flight instructor Jeff Schlaudt said. “The company then turns around and uses its profits to support the work that its missions branch does with orphans and AIDS patients.� Schlaudt chose FMS for several reasons. While many missionary aviation organizations demand a certain level of flight time in “high performance aircraft� — defined by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as having more than 200 horsepower — FMS has no such requirement, and Schlaudt was able to meet their qualifications. According to Schlaudt, as a for-profit business, FMS pilots are paid a limited
PIXAR continued from A1 Many students around Liberty had positive reactions to the article. “It’s genius,� Mason Bet-
salary, negating any need to raise outside financial support. “It’s as if you are working for a company whose CEO has promised to donate all profits to charity,� Schlaudt said. “There is a sense of accomplishment knowing that the more you help the business succeed, the more other people will be blessed by the results in real, tangible ways.� The rigorous AMTS program has been designed to prepare students for such work overseas by covering 38 subject areas “ranging from turbine engines and aircraft welding to basic physics and fundamental electrical theory,� Schlaudt said. Eight-hour days beginning at 7:40 a.m. Monday through Friday manage to fit the FAA-required 1,900 hours into 12 months. According to Schlaudt, most programs average two-and-a-half years. “The LU School of Aeronautics has been blessed with one of the top aircraft mechanic training programs in the country,� Dean of the School of Aeronautics retired Air Force Brig. Gen. Dave Young said. “The evidence of this is in the 100 percent placement rate we have enjoyed for all classes that have graduated. This is due to the outstanding quality of our faculty and instructors and the dedication of our students.� Young praised the recent graduates, saying they will be “making a difference in the aviation industry as top notch mechanics and as Champions for Christ.� Associate Dean retired Navy Capt. Ernie Rogers shared Young’s sentiments, saying the class “was a pleasure to work
terly, a sophomore, said. “The fact that he could tie all the movies together takes so much creativity.� According to Betterly, growing up watching Pixar films made him appreciate
it so much more. Senior Elizabeth DeMeo said she found Negroni’s success encouraging. “To see that Liberty students and alumni are going out and being successful
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GRADUATION — Aviation students say farewell to Liberty as they begin their careers. with and had a very impressive 95 percent pass rate.� “God has blessed us with great instructors and students,� Rogers continued. “The AMTS now starts three new classes annually beginning in August, January and May.� Rogers says he looks forward to students filling these new classes. ADAMS is the advertising director.
is a great thing,� DeMeo said. “It takes a lot of critical thinking and passion to write something like that. Jon did a fantastic job.� Despite the success, Negroni said nothing has
Graduates Six graduates will be working with Flying Mission Services in Botswana • • • • •
Jon Baines Ryan Ball Bryce & Kristie Kimmel Jonathan Laws Jeff Schlaudt
really changed. “I still blog about the same things, just to a bigger audience,� Negroni said. “Being under a microscope has definitely made me more careful.� Negroni has even started
on his next big project. “The Office Theory,� he said. “That’s all you’re getting out of me.� WALSH is a news reporter.
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OPINION
A4
August 27, 2013
Convocation speakers sure to inspire
Students will hear from an impressive lineup of world-renowned leaders and celebrities this semester David Van Dyk dvandyk@liberty.edu
As the fall semester at Liberty University gets underway, the town of Lynchburg, Va. prepares itself for visits from some of the world’s most recognizable names. For the next 15 weeks, multitudes of students will file out of classrooms and dorms for the largest weekly gathering of Christian college students, known as Convocation, with hearts ready to soak in a wealth of wisdom and knowledge. This semester, Liberty has brought together some of the most influential speakers from around the world, touching on many facets of society. From leaders in the field of finance like Rachel Cruze to those who have bravely defended our freedoms like Capt. Gerald Coffee, this semester is sure to stir the hearts of those who listen. As I scrolled through the list of exciting speakers scheduled to open their hearts to the students, I found some instantly recognizable names, including professional surfer and shark attack survivor Bethany Hamilton. Fighting against unbelievable odds, Hamilton found a way not only to survive, but
to thrive, inspiring hearts across the nation with her autobiography and the major motion picture based off her life, “Soul Surfer.” Willie Robertson, CEO of Duck Commander and beloved star on the hit TV show “Duck Dynasty,” is scheduled to make his appearance Sept. 27 during College for a Weekend (CFAW). According to Johnnie Moore, vice president for communications at Liberty University, Convocation is an event unlike any other. “Convocation is a quintessential part of the Liberty University experience,” Moore said. “Nowhere else, and at no moment in your life, will you be exposed so frequently (to) the caliber of guests that address our community each week.” However, Convocation is much more than just a time to listen to leading experts. Where other colleges may encourage their students to do whatever it takes to achieve their goals, Liberty encourages utilizing honesty and morality in each profession. “This semester, we’ve compiled a diverse list of some of the most influential people in the world,” Moore said. “They will dole out invaluable wisdom
freely, and they will inspire our community to live their lives well. This semester is going to be unbelievable — just wait and see.” As I reflect on these past Convocations that I have been blessed with attending, I realize just how much I have learned through listening to people like Cal Thomas, Judah Smith, Mike Huckabee and so many others. The list goes on, and the lessons learned never go away. It is truly a time of growth and motivation. As I, along with thousands of others, step into the multipurpose dome that has serviced events of all kinds, I look forward with anticipation to hearing from some of the greatest leaders of our time. I encourage all who are looking forward to Convocation to prepare their hearts and minds for a time of learning and growth from people who have walked the journey of life and given their talents and skills to the glory of God, considering all the magnificence and fame of this world inadequate. VAN DYK is an opinion writer. Nathan Rupert | Creative Commons
ABOVE ALL ODDS — Hamilton surfs in professional competition.
Egyptian conflicts remain unresolved Jessica Kramer jkramer22@liberty.edu
For those who think “tyranny” is a dusty term last spoken in reference to the American Revolution, think again. Examples of tyranny can be found throughout the world, even in what are now considered free countries with established constitutions. One particular modern-day country fighting back against its tyrannical government is populous Egypt. Egypt has faced a prolonged period of revolution as rebel groups fight to overthrow standing government officials, capturing the power of their people and the attention of the world. According to The Telegraph, after the dismissal of the old regime under Hosni Mubarak, the Muslim Brotherhood — a group of individuals who believe all Arab states
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CIVIL UNREST — A protester holds up an Egyptian flag during demonstrations. should be governed by Islamic and Sharia Law — stepped in and took control. This caused rampant fear among Egyptians who are firmly opposed to the idea of a fascist theocracy. As an American, the idea of the Muslim Brotherhood does not sit well with me. No single reli-
by Greg Leasure Life is like a rollercoaster. I’m willing to bet that you have heard this before. And although life often does resemble the peaks and valleys of a speeding rollercoaster, I believe I have found another experience that is the perfect match for the rollercoaster analogy – college. No matter if you LEASURE are playing Rollercoaster Tycoon, Liberty Online style, or wandering through Six Flags at Lib-
gious group should govern an entire nation and deny fundamental rights for a sect of the people and, in this case, deny fundamental rights to women. In a brief moment of hope, Mohamed Morsi responded and stepped in as the first democratically elected head of state in
erty’s campus, nothing will help you relate to the experience better than a rollercoaster. Want to know just how deep this complex theme park analogy goes? Keep reading. The College/Rollercoaster Analogy Cheat Sheet: •
•
The introverted freshman who spends all day in the dorm: The college equivalent of the person who waits in line but ends up walking through the station without experiencing the ride. Take a chance. Find an activity and do it. There’s a reason people get on the ride – it’s fun. Seniors: There are only a couple sharp turns ahead before arriving back in the station, and you are suddenly wondering how the ride could have been so short — unless you plan to at-
Egypt’s long history. As Fox News reported in early July of this year, however, young Egyptian revolutionaries ousted Morsi as president for a military takeover with ongoing repercussions. According to Dahlia Kholaif, writer for Al Jazeera Media Network of Qatar, the Egyptian mili-
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tary now controls a majority of land and makes up about 40 percent of the country’s total economy. They can sell land for real estate purposes or for resource distraction, own factories that process goods and have military members who were drafted to supply free labor. Egypt’s military ideology is about control over the people and country as opposed to the military ideology of America, which is about protecting our people and our country from foreign and domestic harm. After years of violence and bloodshed, is Egypt’s leadership really better? After the exiting of Mubarak and now Morsi, we can assume that the future of Egypt is still uncertain. Revolutions can be either a positive or a negative shift for culture. But until the masses unite under a common principle or form of government, there will always be divi-
tend graduate school. Graduate students: You found yourself back in the station after the ride, and, would you look at that, nobody else is in line. Might as well get right back on! Still looking for a major: It probably feels like the park closes in 30 minutes, and you somehow haven’t experienced any of the rides. Hang in there. Despite your current state of panic, many successful people had trouble finding the right major while in college. Looking for a job after graduation: Unfortunately, you are the unlucky person in row four whose lapbar is stuck, preventing you from moving on to bigger and better rides. Again, many successful people had trouble finding jobs coming out of college. That student with way too many time
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sion among the people and chaos within the country. We saw a spark of protest against the Muslim Brotherhood, but did we see a real change in a way of thinking? Did we see a change toward true freedom, individual liberty, and a small and limited government? No, we saw a change of power. Until the Middle East adopts the principles of democracy, there will always be turmoil and despair for the people. In the words of a true revolutionary in modern politics, Ron Paul, “Only liberty can truly ward off tyranny, the great and eternal foe of mankind.” KRAMER is an opinion writer.
commitments: The amusement park equivalent of riding 10 coasters before noon, resulting in one very upset stomach. I’m no expert, but it might be time to find a park bench and take a break. Failing a class: You just dropped your cell phone while speeding through turn three. Just like buying a new cell phone, retaking that class might be painful, but what choice do you have?
All jokes aside, no matter which major or activity you choose, the important thing is to make the most of it. LEASURE is the editor in chief.
OPINION
AUGUST 27, 2013
Liberty Champion/A5
Millennials falling from faith
Current generation faces religious crisis as more than 8 million young adults turn from biblical upbringing Gabriella Fuller gfuller2@liberty.edu
August signals the beginning of the backto-school whirlwind. University campuses around the nation become charged with eager young minds as academia once again resumes its precedence. Yet the one criterion college students will unlikely find listed in course syllabi this year is the one foundational element our generation needs most: truth. According to social analysts, an alarming trend popularly entitled the “rise of the nones” has gripped a major concentration of Millennials. The title originates from the March 2013 survey held by the University of California, Berkeley and Duke University, which found religious affiliation among the millennial generation to have hit its lowest point in recorded history. In order to assess the concerning statistics, the Barna Group conducted a study on Americans ranging from ages 18-29. The research reveals that 59 percent of once-active churchattending Millennials within this age group will drop out of regular attendance, amounting to more than 8 million “nones” renouncing church and Christianity. The trend of disengagement is sobering. How profoundly and significantly the face of our country has changed since cultural movements such as the Great Awakening. Yet as I read the statistics in broken-hearted sorrow, some look upon the trend as a victory for our nation. Gary Laderman, chair of the Department of Religion at Emory University, recently stated his approval in an article to The Huffington Post. “The rise of the ‘nones’ surely suggests it is the end of religion as we know it,” Laderman wrote. “Forget churches; forget priests and pastors; forget the Bible; forget organized
religion generally.” The statement appears confident and charming — only Laderman and his colleagues have overlooked one very crucial piece to the puzzle of life. There is no forgetting the Bible, and there is certainly no forgetting Christ. If there is one thing in our existence that is irrefutable, it is God’s sovereign reign and ultimate triumph. I, for one, refuse to believe the lie that the future of the church is lost. Christ is still returning for his bride. My question, then, is not the validity of Laderman’s statement that Christianity has reached its end, but rather what Christians are currently doing to rescue the millions of spiritually homeless young adults. The difficulty of doubt is not unique to this generation. Job disputed God. Jacob struggled with an angel. Thomas doubted the resurrection. Jesus hesitated in the garden and questioned on the cross. Seasons of uncertainty and confusion can be transformed into moments of grace. Author and theologian C.S. Lewis captures this idea best in his work “Mere Christianity.” “If I find in myself a desire which no experience in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that I was made for another world,” Lewis wrote. As my mom often reminded me growing up, we do not serve a God of statistics. Instead of settling for shifting spiritual ground in our nation, let us disciple the upcoming generations to find their sense of home in the church, to fight for faith, and to replace fear and doubt with a yearning to wrestle for truth.
59%
41%
keep regular attendance.
of Americans age 18-29 drop out of church.
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The trend of disengagement is sobering. How profoundly and significantly the face of our country has changed. — GABRIELLA FULLER
FULLER is the opinion editor.
DOMA repeal: just the beginning? Tyler Beaston tbeaston@liberty.edu
Nearly two months ago, the Supreme Court ruled Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) as unconstitutional. The overturn was seen as a great victory for the gay community and a particularly devastating loss to conservativeminded individuals. The ruling grants gay couples living in states that permit gay marriage access to the same rights as heterosexual couples. As stated by the syllabus for United States v. Windsor, there are more than 1,000 of these rights, which include estate tax exemption and other financial benefits. The repeal of DOMA does not legalize same-sex marriage throughout the country. That decision is still left to the individual states. “The DOMA decision is a blow for federalism and the democratic process,” Dr. Corey Martin, assistant professor of government for the Liberty University Helms School of Government, said. “Congress passed this law with large bipartisan majorities in both houses, and the court simply decided that Congress has to accept the definition of marriage as dictated by the states. (T) he decision is also symptomatic of a court that is acting outside of its constitutional bounds.”
The U.S. is gradually turning away from its arguably Christian heritage and choosing “progressive” policies. Is this shift good for our nation? Any adjustment that diverges from the Christian worldview will negatively influence every aspect of society, from politics and economics to interpersonal relationships. While the verdict is disappointing, it is similarly unsurprising. The current Supreme Court tends to favor liberal ideals, and the president vocally supports gay rights. I anticipate that more cases will be taken to the Supreme Court to repeal DOMA in its entirety within a few years. The fall of Section 3 was simply the beginning of a larger process to fully integrate homosexuality into the culture. “(W)ork is underway to fully overturn DOMA and end federal marriage discrimination once and for all,” freedomtomarry. org states, but the site does not specify how. These changes in policy are a subtle indication of a mindset change in society. The U.S. is only in the initial stages of this transformation, so the effects are not severely rampant or overt. But as the general atmosphere morphs from one of altruism to hedonism, repercussions will become more evident. Dr. Kirk Belmont, senior pas-
Victoria Pickering | Creative Commons
CELEBRATION — Crowds rally in support of marriage equality in front of the Supreme Court. tor at Hope Community Church in Mount Joy, Pa., commented on the current situation. “I think the nation will continue to decline into…relativism,” Belmont said. “This decision is one more step in that direction.” The Bible makes it clear that God intends marriage to be between a male and a female. God sets the standard that humans are meant to follow. Many American laws are built on concepts taught by
the Bible, including DOMA. Now, with society’s changing mindset, these laws are viewed as outdated or narrow-minded. Biblical influence diminishes, which allows new policies to be implemented. Christians should not feel helpless in the face of adverse circumstances. We can stand against unbiblical laws and represent truth in a respectful and compassionate manner. “We should continue to be-
have in the way Jesus would behave,” Belmont said. “Part of the reason the nation has gone this way is the church has not (behaved like Jesus). We need to be full of grace yet full of truth in presenting our viewpoint.” BEASTON is an opinion writer.
1. THE KINTZEL FAMILY WELCOMES BABY NORA BRYNN. 2. THE CENTER4ME HELD A CELEBRATION OF AMERICAN TAPESTRY ON AUG. 23 3. SCHOOL OF BUSINESS AND SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING TO HOST BACK TO SCHOOL BASH AUG. 28
Photo provided
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VISIT THE CHAMPION’S WEBSITE AT LIBERTYCHAMPION.COM. CHECK US OUT ON FACEBOOK. Facebook
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AUGUST 27, 2013
Master
Plan Liberty’s administration posted the final layout for the new campus on the university’s website
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NEWS
Liberty Champion/A6
Greg Leasure gleasure@liberty.edu
Multiple Liberty University construction projects are currently in progress as the university administration unveiled a wide-reaching, new campus master plan in the summer 2013 edition of the Liberty Journal. The university’s website said the master plan functions as a blueprint that “charts the goals university leadership has for campus in the coming years.” This blueprint functions as a map of campus that includes projects both currently under construction and those not yet begun. According to President Jerry Falwell, Jr., the $400 million renovation of the campus will include a 1,400-space parking garage between ReberThomas Dining Hall and the old Worthington Stadium site. A new softball stadium will also be built in this area. More detail will soon be added to the master plan as plans are
finalized for this section of the campus. Currently under construction are a major expansion of the LaHaye Student Center, an eight-story dorm next to the Vines Center, a new School of Music building and a new Science Hall, among others. “These facilities will be designed to bring students the best there is to offer in their fields, equipping them for success in their future careers,” the master plan Web page said of the new academic facilities. Longer-range plans provide for an indoor practice facility near the railroad tracks below the new Liberty Baseball Stadium, and an addition to Williams Stadium that will bring the seating capacity to 25,000. Construction projects that are nearing completion around campus include The Jerry Falwell Library, the Center for Medical and Health Sciences, vehicular tunnels to Wards Road, and a Vines Center practice facility addition.
The master plan also includes plans for new parking areas in various places around campus and plans for future off-campus housing on the north side of East Campus. Those interested in keeping up with changes to campus or the master plan can stay up-to-date by visiting liberty.edu/MasterPlan. LEASURE is the editor in chief.
FYI
The Jerry Falwell Library will have reading rooms, a food court and multiple balconies.
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Ruth Bibby | Liberty Champion
CONSTRUCTION — 1) Liberty is installing a man-made pond between the new Library, Vines Center and future residential halls. 2) The new four-story residence hall quads will replace the “circle dorms” and have a grassy area in the middle that can serve as intramural fields. 3) The College of Osteopathic Medical and School of Health Sciences is expected to be finished by Spring 2014. 4) An underground practice facility for volleyball and basketball is located between the pond and the Vines Center. 5) The Jerry Falwell Library is nearing completion and will include a robotic book retrieval system.
NEWS
AUGUST 27, 2013
Liberty Champion/A7
IT partners with Atomic Learning Students now have the opportunity to watch free tutorials online to help them learn new computer programs James Ebrahim jebrahim2@liberty.edu
This semester, Liberty University’s Information Technology (IT) department is providing a brand new opportunity for students and staff members to learn how to use computer programs and social media websites. The department, along with the Center for Curriculum Development and the Center for Teaching Excellence, is partnering with Atomic Learning Incorporated to provide Liberty students with access to online tutorials. These tutorials teach students how to use computer programs such as Microsoft PowerPoint, Excel, Word and Adobe Photoshop. Atomic Learning also includes tutorials on social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter. According to the IT Web page, Atomic
TRIP continued from A1 We got a phone call from his secretary and had a meeting.” However, according to Timothy Riordan, Liberty was not the sole sponsor of this trip. “We also got a sponsorship (of) $4,000 from a camera company to document the entire trip,” Timothy Riordan said. According to Timothy Riordan, the group drove the Liberty van equipped with QR codes linked back to Liberty’s Web page for a total of 8,222 miles traveling through 25 states. They visited seven national parks, hiked over 100 miles and performed at three churches throughout the trip. “We camped out 90 percent of the trip,” Timothy Riordan said. “I researched everything down to the hour that we had. That was the only way we could accomplish everything in one month.” However, the purpose of the ROALT was more than just driv-
Learning has more than 50,000 videos that cover more than 200 software programs. These videos can be accessed anytime by faculty, students and staff members. New content is continually being added as the software develops. “It’s been a year-long process, and we just signed the contract last month,” Carolyn Wagner, a Liberty IT marketing specialist, said. According to Wagner, this contract marks another step in Liberty’s goal to train champions for Christ by providing a world-class education. Atomic Learning is easily accessible to students in three ways: they can log on to the Atomic Learning Web page, access it through the IT Web page and use it through Blackboard. According to the website, Atomic Learning was founded in 2000 and has won more than 13 technology awards
ing around the country taking pictures. “Explore the ... untamed side of America while sharing the gospel of Jesus,” was the purpose of this road trip, Riordan said. “We want to bring glory to God by seeing His creation and serving anyone we meet along the way.” According to Timothy Riordan, the trip had was life changing to everyone involved. “Jean Michelle and Isabelle are a couple from Quebec that we met along the way,” Timothy Riordan said. “(They had) no concept of Christianity at all; they don’t understand it ... By the end of the night we had separated into small groups and were all talking and sharing our faith ... We invited them to travel with us to this church we were leading worship at the next day.” Timothy Riordan said everyone in the group was happy to share their faith with this couple. When they had to part ways, the
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Atomic learning is a great way to learn programs. — CAROLYN WAGNER
while training 16 million individuals in 45 countries around the world. Wagner said that Atomic Learning is a great way to learn programs. The workshops are step-by-step and easy to understand. Professors can now assign videos that the students can watch as homework to develop their skills with the computer programs they are learning in their classes. According to Wagner, the programs have been designed to cater to a range of learners from beginner to advanced and
allow users to work at their own pace. “I use it for the Adobe suite,” Wagner said. “I graduated as a graphic design major. When I graduated, I used CS3. Now there’s CS6. The videos will teach me the new tools and how to use the programs. So I don’t have to go back to school to take classes to learn the program; I can just use this free website.” At a campus-wide level, the IT department and Atomic Learning are providing opportunities to anyone who wants to get a certification in a particular software, learn the basics of computer programs and enhance ones knowledge of rapidlychanging technology. For more information about this service, visit liberty.edu/informationtechnology/it-services. EBRAHIM is a news reporter.
group decided to give the couple money in order to help them fix the brakes on their car. “We got one of our Bibles that we had and put the money inside and gave it to them,” Timothy Riordan said. “We are still praying for them and keeping in contact with them.” Timothy Riordan explained that he gained knowledge through this short journey. “As a group, we learned to always be living intentionally and being proactive and seeking any opportunity to share the love of Christ,” Timothy Riordan said. “And to be seeking His creation and worship Him through that.” For anyone interested in learning more about this road trip, the documentary is expected to premier winter 2013, and students are encouraged to check out the trip on Instagram #ROALT2013. SHARP is a news reporter.
CROWDER
with special guest colton dixon
Friday, Sept.27
8 p.m. Vines Center TICKETS: GENERAL ADMISSION: Liberty Students: $10 adv.
General Public: $15 adv. GOLD CIRCLE SEATS: $20 ADV. (FLOOR SEATS) FOR TICKET INFORMATION CALL (434) 582-SEAT OR PURCHASE ONLINE AT LIBERTY. EDU/SA FOR MORE INFORMATION EMAIL STUDENTACTIVITIES@LIBERTY.EDU OR CALL (434) 592-3061
Photo Provided
ADVENTURE — ROALT visits Big Sur in California.
NEWS
AUGUST 27, 2013
Liberty Champion/A8
Courtney Russo | Liberty Champion
ACTION! — Students receive hands-on experience working with professional cameras and equipment in the new Zaki Gordon Center for the Cinematic Arts.
Film students intern with Sony Cinematic arts majors intern with Sony Provident Films over the summer on the set of “Mom’s Night Out” Isaac Schea ischea@liberty.edu
Students in the new Zaki Gordon Center for Cinematic Arts had the opportunity this summer to put their skills to the test working directly with production teams on various feature films. According to Sarah Zimmer, a senior in the School of Cinematic Arts, included in the lineup was “Mom’s Night Out,” a feature-length film to be released by Sony Provident Films in 2014. The filming took place in Birmingham, Ala. and lasted six weeks. While on the set, each of the students worked alongside the Provident professionals as members of the production team. Assistant Professor of Cinematic Arts Scotty Curlee said the opportunity came to the students at the film festival last year, which was hosted by the School of
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It was one of the greatest experiences of my life.
Cinematic Arts. According to Zimmer, the facilitator of the internships, multiple production companies, such as Sony Provident Films, attended the event and were so impressed with the work of the students involved that they asked who would be interested in summer internship opportunities. Although Curlee was the one who helped several of the students make the proper connections, he said both the students and the production companies sought each other out at the film festival. Sarah Zimmer, a senior in the School of Cinematic Arts, said she was one of the students who had the opportunity to work
Freshmen Sophia Hahn
Facts
shahn3@liberty.edu
1. The average high school GPA of all undergraduate, resident freshmen is 3.35, an increase from 3.34 in 2012. 2. The number one major of undergraduate, resident freshmen is nursing. Second is business. Third is communication studies. Fourth is education, and fifth is psychology. 3. The furthest country an undergraduate, resident freshman student has come from is Indonesia. 4. 27,235 people applied to attend Liberty University this fall, and only 5,645 of those were accepted (21% acceptance rate – residential undergraduate only). 5. Ratio of girls to boys in the freshmen class: Female: 52% Male: 48% From the Liberty Registrar Director of Reporting, Joshua Redmond.
Facts about the year freshmen were born, 1995: 1. “Forrest Gump” won an Oscar for Best Picture in 1995 (IMDB). 2. Tom Hanks won an Oscar for Best Actor for “Forrest Gump” in 1995 (IMDB). 3. “Kiss From a Rose” by Seal was the fourth most popular song during that year (Billboard). 4. According to the Population Reference Bureau, the estimated world population during 1995 was 5,702,000,000 (Britannica). HAHN is the news editor.
— KRISTIN TAYLOR on “Mom’s Night Out.” As a production assistant, Zimmer was primarily responsible for assuring that the talent was ready on time. “It was a great way to learn about set etiquette in a professional environment,” Zimmer said. According to Zimmer, she was grateful to be treated as one of the professionals by the rest of the production team and not as just a student intern. Kristin Taylor, another senior in the cinematic arts program, also worked as a production assistant. “It was one of the best experiences of my life,” Taylor said. “Working with pro-
fessionals as a student was such an amazing opportunity.” According to Taylor, she too felt that she had been treated as a professional by the rest of the production crew. Taylor said this was not the first time these students had worked together on a set. In a production called “Letting Go,” they had become a team, and therefore, it was easy to work together again on “Mom’s Night Out.” Zimmer and Taylor both plan to graduate in May of 2014 before going into the filming field. The School of Cinematic Arts’ goal is to create opportunities for working alongside industry professionals in order for students to become better equipped for the rest of the world. SCHEA is a news reporter.
Women’s field hockey travels overseas Liberty student athletes carry the gospel to Uganda on a missions trip
Lindsay Benton lbenton8@liberty.edu
Lady Flames field hockey players and coaches traveled to Uganda this summer with the purpose of spreading the gospel. According to Erin Dombach, a sophomore field hockey player, the team spent more than two weeks of the summer distributing clothing and starting sports clinics overseas. The Center for Global Engagement supported 18 students and supervisors in fulfilling the commission of Christ abroad. The team engaged with the community in Uganda through soccer, tennis and field hockey. “We wanted to give the kids a safe environment and also introduce field hockey to them,” Dombach said. According to Dombach, it was an chance to get out of her comfort zone. “You think that you’re going to help them, but really they end up strengthening you. It was humbling because the people had so much faith, and they had so little,” Dombach said. The team ministered to the people of Uganda through the use of biblical
performances. Some students were able to tell their testimonies with the help of translators, according to Dombach. “We can be a blessing financially and care for their needs, but we can also be a blessing by showing and sharing the gospel with them,” Sarah Gipe, a sophomore field hockey player, said. Many Ugandans responded to the gospel in a positive way, according to Dombach. The team saw a large amount of children in sports clinics dedicate their lives to Christ. Dombach also said it was a dream for Head Coach Jodi Murphy to travel to Uganda. Murphy founded the non-profit organization Hockey Pathfinder. The organization aims to teach field hockey internationally in a welcoming environment. The team traveled to rural areas of the country where it was able to give financial support that was raised before the trip. Student athletes supported people who sell beads with no other way of earning income, according to Gipe. “I think that missions are something that everyone should experience,
Abigail Bock | Liberty Champion
MISSIONS — Uganda is located in East Africa, landlocked between Rwanda, Kenya, South Sudan, Congo and Tanzania. regardless if God’s calling you to missions or not,” Dombach concluded. Dombach and Gipe encourage Liberty University students to go on at least one missions trip during their college years. For more information,
visit liberty.edu/academics/globalengagement. BENTON is a news reporter.
Liberty Champion
SPORTS
W&M AUGUST 27, 2013
Field Hockey Liberty 3
W&M 1
W. Soccer
Liberty Charlotte 0 1
B1
D1 W. Hockey
M. Soccer
Liberty 3
UNCG 2
Liberty 2
Hamilton 1
Flames claim 11th Sasser Cup Tory Abrahamsen tabrahamsen@liberty.edu
Ruth Bibby | Liberty Champion
LAST-SECOND HEROICS — Sarah Stevenson (11) scored the final goal against Hamilton, giving Liberty a 2-1 win.
Clutch in the preseason The Lady Flames clinch victory in the final seconds against the Hamilton Hawks Derrick Battle Tom Foote dbattle2@liberty.edu tfoote2@liberty.edu
With 23.7 second left in regulation, Liberty Lady Flames forward Sarah Stevenson battled her way through two defenders and slapped in the game-winning goal from the right wing against the Hamilton Hawks, giving Liberty a 2-1 victory. “We were a little bit slow, the ice was slow,” Lady Flames
Head Coach Paul Bloomfield said. “We struggled a little bit, but we were lucky we pulled that goal off in the last 30 seconds. That sort of ended it the way we needed to.” The exhibition match was the first action the Lady Flames saw since coming up short in the American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA) championship game against Minnesota Golden Gophers. During the 2013 season, Liberty finished second in the
ACHA with a 31-3 record. “I’m excited for this year to see what happens … ” Fischer said, “I think if we put enough fight in us and work hard on the ice and off ice, I think we can do it. Instead of coming out second, we’ll come out on top this year.” Bloomfield and his players welcomed back former Lady Flame and current Hawks assistant coach Brooke Harris. In 2011, Harris was team captain under Bloomfield. “She’s a good kid and was
captain of our team for two years, and it’s always good to see (players) come back,” Bloomfield said. Throughout most of the first period, Liberty came out sluggish and gave up a goal with 11:44 left before intermission. Hamilton maintained possession of the puck for most of the period. However, the Lady Flames answered and tied the game 1-1.
During the fall and spring 2012 and 2013 athletic seasons, Liberty teams claimed 10 of 18 Big South Conference championships, a feat that ultimately helped Liberty secure its 11th Sasser Cup. This is Liberty’s sixth consecutive year bringing home the award, which is the longest streak in Big South history. According bigsouthsports.com, the Sasser Cup is given to the school with the best overall athletic year. The winner is determined by a wieghted point system based on regular season and tournament finishes. Liberty beat out Coastal Carolina by less than one point. “We would be very disappointed if we didn’t win (the Sasser Cup), but it’s always going to be a battle,” Barber said. Despite receiving a fifth seed in the north division for the Big South Championship, the men’s basketball team won four games in five days to capture the conference title. The Flames football team overcame a 0-4 start to gain a share of the Big South Championship. Barber has still managed to take Liberty Athletics to new heights during his tenure. In addition to winning the Sasser Cup six straight years, Liberty is continuing to renovate its athletic facilities and strengthen its programs. “We have a great commitment here at Liberty for athletics, starting with the chancellor down … the school has made a great commitment to us,” Barber said. In addition to the Sasser Cup, Liberty
See CLUTCH, B2
See SASSER, B3
Summer league fun Greg Leasure gleasure@liberty.edu
nity,” Woodrum said. Running backs D.J. Abnar, Desmond Rice and University of Virginia transfer Clifton Richardson will propel the ground game while wide receivers Darrin Peterson and Dante Shells will be key pieces of Liberty’s passing game.
The Liberty Flames baseball team just refuses to stop winning. Fresh off a Big South Championship in May and an NCAA regional appearance, many Flames played in collegiate summer baseball leagues. However, four Flames added even more championships to their resumes after capturing titles in two different leagues. Junior outfielder Ashton Perritt led his Licking County Settlers to the Great Lakes Summer Collegiate League title Aug. 4 and was selected to the league’s all-star team, taking the batting title as the top hitter in the league. Not to be outdone, the trio of senior Danny Grauer and juniors Alex Close and Jared Lyons contributed to the Peninsula Pilots pursuit of the Coastal Plain
See SCHEDULE, B4
See FUN, B4
Breann Black|Liberty Champion
LET THE GAMES BEGIN — The Flames will play two FBS opponents during this football season.
Liberty hopes to reach playoffs With a reloaded team, Flames are eager to make a run in the FCS tournament Emily Brown erbrown@liberty.edu
With the new school year underway, the Liberty Flames football team also begins a new season and looks to bring home its sixth conference title in the last seven years. The Flames were picked to
WE’LL SEE YOU AT THE GAME
finish second in the Big South Conference, according to a preseason poll on bigsouthsports.com. The team hopes to improve upon last year’s 6-5 record, which included six wins in the last seven games, under second-year Head Coach Turner Gill. The Flames offense will be
Volleyball Blue-White scrimmage Aug. 27 @ 7 p.m.
led by redshirt sophomore quarterback Josh Woodrum, the reigning Big South Freshman of the Year who garnered recognition for his 1,966 passing yard 2012 season. “Our team’s really gonna look to me to make plays, be real consistent, manage the game and really strike people when we have the opportu-
Field Hockey vs. St. Joseph’s Aug. 30 @ 2 p.m.
W. Soccer vs. ODU Aug. 30 @ 4 p.m.
W. Soccer vs. American Sept. 1 @ 1 p.m.
Volleyball vs. Georgetown Sept. 3 @
7 p.m.
SPORTS
AUGUST 27, 2013
Liberty Champion/ B2
Volleyball looks for third straight title
The Lady Flames start their season Aug. 30 at the Northern Illinois Invitational against No. 23 Ohio State Courtney Tyree cntyree@liberty.edu
The Lady Flames volleyball team is looking to bring home a Big South Championship title for the third season in a row. The two-time defending Big South champions have been picked to finish first in this year’s Big South preseason poll. “Really preseason is just voting, but it is really nice to be thought of that way,” Head Coach Shane Pinder said. The Lady Flames have been practicing since Aug. 8, preparing for tough competition in nonconference play. “We have a tough nonconference schedule, and (we) need great leadership to keep it together early on and help us head in the right direction,” Pinder said. With players such as senior setter, Jade Craycraft and outside hitter and preseason player of the year Caroline Douglas, the Lady Flames have a strong core of veteran players.
Ruth Bibby | Liberty Champion
WINNING MENTALITY— The Lady Flames hope to continue to dominate the Big South Conference. Along with Craycraft and Douglas, senior Lillie Happel and Kendle Rollins will be returning for the Flames. Defensive specialist Becca Haraf will
also be returning for her senior year. “We have the opportunity to go for a ‘three-peat’ this year, which has never been done in school histo-
ry,” Craycraft said. “We’ve won back-to-back championships, so obviously we kind of have a target on our back, but basically we need to handle the pres-
sure well, maintain and sustain success for as long as we can.” Pinder explained that his Lady Flames have selfimposed standards that
Men’s soccer kicks off season Jacob Tellers jtellers@liberty.edu
The Liberty Flames men’s soccer team won a back-and-forth contest 3-2 against the University of North Carolina Greensboro Spartans Saturday, Aug. 24 at Osborne Stadium in their final exhibition game. Forward Ernest Siaw scored the deciding goal on a cross into the penalty box by midfielder Sam Duininck. Kyle Breitmeyer scored 14 minutes into the game, which gave the Flames an early lead. However, in the final minutes of the first half, the Spartans answered with a goal to bring the score to 1-1. Liberty scored its second goal of the game in the 62nd minute after Duininck headed home a free kick taken by midfielder Tim Harrison. Several minutes later, Spartan forward Brian Graham scored to knot the game at two. Liberty Flames Head Coach Jeff Alder said that he was impressed with how his team responded each time it conceded a goal. “I think that’s that steely resolve that we talk to our
guys about having,” Alder said. “So regardless of how good or bad things are going, just stay in the fight and see if we can close this thing out.” According to Alder, the exhibition match gave the team an opportunity to find their rhythm and learn about themselves. “I felt both of their goals came off of unforced turnovers where we played a bad pass,” Alder said. “Maybe a sloppy pass and then we turned it over in the wrong spot and then we got hit on the counter. At times I thought our team defense looked good tonight, and at other times we had some communication breakdowns.” Last season the Flames were 8-7-3 overall, which included a 6-1-3 record in conference play. However, despite earning the third seed in the tournament, they lost in the first round to eventual champions, Winthrop. “That’s a game that still stinks,” Alder said. “There’s not many days that go by that I don’t think about that.” Besides simply winning games, there are other goals that Alder has for his team this season.
Courtney Russo | Liberty Champion
IN FORM — Liberty defeated UNC Greensboro 3-2. “Every day we are so concerned with our process,” Alder said. “How do we want to play and what should we look like and really not chasing what is on the scoreboard even thought that is important, but playing the right type of soccer, being together and unified as a group.” Alder also touched on what he considers to be the team’s higher calling. “Soccer is our ministry,” Alder said. “That’s who we
are. We are trying again to use our God-given abilities as a platform to share our faith with these other teams.” The Flames will travel to Georgia State for their first regular-season game Aug. 30. TELLERS is a sports reporter.
CLUTCH continued from B1 “It’s just the first game,” Bloomfield said. ”The first period is always tough, trying to get everybody figured out, there’s always butterflies and jitters. That’s why it’s just an exhibition game. It’s good to get everybody good and going.” The game remained deadlocked at 1-1 throughout the second period. The Lady Flames were unable to capitalize on Hawks turnovers, one of which led to a 2-on-1 breakaway that ended with a save from the Hamilton goalie. Although Liberty’s offense began to pick up, the Lady Flames were unable to put the puck in the back of the net. “It takes a while to get used to everybody’s style, and I think as the game went along it progressed in our favor,” Lady Flames senior captain Courtney Fischer said. As a team, Liberty was 0-2 on the power play. Consistent play from both goalies attributed to
are higher than any others placed on them. “In terms of expectations, they are always pursuing excellence,” Pinder said. “They always want to be the best and they commit to that, so I don’t know if anyone can put any more pressure (on us) than what we put on ourselves every day.” The Lady Flames will open their season against No. 23 Ohio State at the Northern Illinois University Invitational in DeKalb, Ill., Aug. 30. “The Vines Center is a big place, and I’ve never seen it filled up for a volleyball game” Craycraft said. “We have some very loyal people that always show up, but it’s so important for ... the momentum of the game to have your school behind you.” Liberty will play Georgetown Sept. 3 for its home season opener at 7 p.m. in the Vines Center. TYREE is a sports reporter.
a defensive setting. “We’ve lost a couple of girls and a couple of recruits I had coming in didn’t come,” Bloomfield said. “I think we’re strong. The two recruits that did come are really good players, and they will benefit the team, but until we actually get everybody on the ice and see how chemistry works and everything, I think we’re alright. But we’re going to have to wait and see how our season comes together.” Liberty begins its season when it hosts the Raleigh Tri-City Selects Sept. 21 at 6 p.m., where the Lady Flames will look to extend their 14-game home winning streak. BATTLE is the sports editor. FOOTE is the asst. sports editor.
FYI
The Lady Flames ended last season winning 12 of 13 games.
SPORTS
AUGUST 27, 2013
Liberty Champion/ B3
Liberty continues to expand football stadium Alex Tichenor atichenor@liberty.edu
When fans file into Williams Stadium Sept. 7 for the Flames home opener against Monmouth, they might want to get a good look at their surroundings, because, much like the rest of campus, the stadium is set to undergo major changes in the foreseeable future. According to Liberty Athletic Director Jeff Barber, plans are in the works to expand the stadium from the current 19,200 seating capacity to about 25,000 in the next few years. The expansion would add an upper deck to the east side of the stadium, roughly twice the size of the upper deck currently in place on the west side. No definite date is set for the addition, but Barber said the construction would most likely begin after a promotion to the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) from the current Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) or after
a run in the FCS playoffs. The stadium has already grown since its completion in 1989, most recently undergoing a 7,200 seat expansion and the building of a five-story tower on the stadium’s west side in 2010. “Building a bigger stadium puts a flag in the ground and lets people know that you’re committed to a higher level of football,” Barber said. “There’s a saying: ‘they don’t care what you know until they know that you care.’” The Flames have been aggressively petitioning for an FBS invite for several years and will be revisiting that plan after the 2013 college football season ends. “There’s gonna be another wave of change in the culture and the landscape (of college football),” Barber said. “There’s still some shifting going on, and what we’re trying to do right now is position ourselves so that everybody’s more than aware of who we are. We’re doing
Ruth Bibby| Liberty Champion
EXPANSION — Barber hopes the expansion of the stadium will lead to a promotion to the FBS. everything we can to get ourselves out there, and people are noticing.” Although Liberty’s average attendance of 16,318 ranked 11th in the FCS in 2012, Barber said the stadium still had about 2,900 empty seats per game last season. However, according to
Barber, attendance should rise in 2013, with season ticket sales up 25 percent from this time last year. Barber estimated attendance could climb to around 17,000-17,500 this year. Unless an unexpected attendance drop-off occurs, the Flames will sur-
Big South Champions •Men’s Basketball
•Men’s Indoor Track & Field
•Women’s Outdoor Track & Field
• Volleyball
• Women’s
•Men’s Outdoor Track & Field
Basketball
• Men’s Cross Country
•Baseball
•Football
•Women’s Cross Country Breann Black | Liberty Champion
REIGNING CHAMPS — Ten Liberty teams brought home conference championships last year.
pass the 15,000 averageattendance minimum that FCS schools are required to have for FBS consideration. The 2013 season will see changes to the stadium as well. The new Liberty athletics logo will cover midfield, end zones will don a slightly different ap-
pearance and workers are currently in the process of replacing the current blue sideline walls with brick. There will also be a new chancellor’s club area added to the fifth floor of the tower.
SASSER continued from B1
very well be on its way to becoming one of the top programs in the nation. “I think we’ll have a number of our programs that will be top 20 in the country,” Barber said. “The way Liberty is growing, we may get there sooner than many would expect.”
also claimed the Women’s All-Sports Trophy. This is the fourth consecutive year and the fifth time in six seasons Liberty has won the award. With a new baseball stadium, training facilities and practice facilities taking root in the past year, as well as plans for a football stadium renovation and a new softball stadium in the works, Liberty may
TICHENOR is a sports reporter.
ABRAHAMSEN is a sports reporter.
SPORTS
AUGUST 27, 2013
Liberty Champion/ B4
Flames have Golden Flashes in sight Liberty seeks to derail Heisman Trophy hopeful Dri Archer as it takes on Kent State in its season opener Derrick Battle dbattle2@liberty.edu
In 2010, Liberty won its first game ever against a Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) opponent, defeating Ball State 27-23 on Cardinal’s home field. After falling short the previous two seasons against FBS foes, the Flames look to win their first season opener in three years, this time against the Kent State Golden Flashes. Last year, the Golden Flashes won 11 games, which is the most in their school’s history. This feat could not have been done without running back Dri Archer. “We need to tackle well,” Liberty Head Coach Turner Gill said. “(Archer) is great in the open field. We need to slow him down early before he gets started.” Archer finished the season ranked fifth in the NCAA FBS division with 1,981 allpurpose yards and 23 total touchdowns. With speed, elusiveness and a touch of instinct, Archer can create problems for any defense. Archer is considered a 2013 Heisman Trophy candidate after gaining national recognition for his contributions last season. “While they do have a great weapon in Archer, we have weapons as well,” Gill said. “We match up well with them and our defense should be ready.” Quarterback Josh Woodrum leads a potent offense that returns four starting offensive lineman and adds University of Virginia transfer running back Clifton Richardson to an already deep backfield.
“(Woodrum) is a leader on this team,” Gill said. “With mostly everyone returning, including most of our starters on the line, our offense should be able to put points on the board.” With an experienced offensive line led by Malcolm Boyd, who went down with a season-ending injury last season, the Flames look to keep defensive lineman Roosevelt Nix out of the backfield. “We need to have good technique with blocking (Nix).” Gill said. “We want to neutralize him as well as their front seven.” Nix was named to the Naguriski Award (best defensive player), Outland Award (best interior lineman) and Bednarik Award (defensive player of the year) watch lists after recording 59 tackles, including 15 tackles for a loss and six sacks, a year ago. Liberty defensive back Kevin Fogg also returns from a season-ending injury last year to an experienced secondary unit. Along with fellow senior Walt Aikens, the duo should be able to shut down any threat in the passing game. Like Archer, Fogg also has the ability to make plays anywhere on the field. Fogg is known to lock down receivers, and has also returned seven kicks and punts for touchdowns during his career at Liberty. The Flames seek to win their second straight game against a Mid-American Conference opponent when they meet the Golden Flashes Thursday, Aug. 29, at 6 p.m. on ESPN3.
Ruth Bibby | Liberty Champion
CAN IT HAPPEN? — Liberty looks to shock FBS opponent Kent State.
BATTLE is the sports editor.
Manziel’s fall
Tom Foote
tfoote2@liberty.edu
Greg Leasure | Liberty Champion
SUMMER BATS — Danny Grauer, Alex Close, Ashton Perritt and Jared Lyons made an impact on summer league teams.
FUN continued from B1 League Championship, finishing the job on Aug. 17. As the summer started out, the game itself remained the same, but host families and fewer off days made it a different game than the one they are used to. Wooden bats are also used in summer leagues because, according to Perritt, scouts prefer to see prospects hit with wooden bats, which are used in professional baseball. “It’s nice because you can actually go inside on people, sometimes break their bats,” Lyons, a pitcher, said. Catcher Alex Close found himself having to make adjustments in the batter’s box as well. “It makes you really focus on your swing, because you don’t get cheap hits with a wooden bat very often.” Close said. “And you know too with
SCHEDULE continued from B1 Defensive lineman Cory Freeman and cornerbacks Walt Aikens and Kevin Fogg headline Liberty’s defense. Fogg will also contribute to Liberty’s special teams unit. He returns for the 2013 season as a redshirt
the wood, if you get it, you really get it. It’s just that crack.” According to Grauer, both leagues attract some of the best collegiate talent from across the country, so those who need a place to stay are assigned host families for the summer, yet another difference. Close and Perritt stayed with host families, while Lyons and Grauer commuted from their own families’ homes, which were near the ballpark. “It was a different experience,” Perritt said. “It took a lot of getting used to. I had a few responsibilities around the house, but it was a great family, a good experience overall.” According to Perritt, he also had to adjust to the 50-to-60plus game schedule and the additional energy it required. “Normally during the season I’m just all out, diving around, falling all over,” Perritt said. “But during summer ball I had to take care of myself more, make sure I’m stretched out, make sure I’m loose, hydrate,
senior after suffering an injury early in the 2012 season. In the four games he played prior to injury, Fogg recorded 18 tackles and returned 11 kicks for 254 yards. Liberty’s 2013 schedule features seven home games, including Big South opponents Virginia Military Institute, Presby-
get a lot of rest at night.” As the Flames turn their focus back to Liberty baseball in the spring, their desire to win has not diminished. “The championships, we were talking about it the other day,” Close said. “We have like a winning swag about us now. There’s no Coastal (Carolina) chip on the shoulder. We’re the ones that have to be beaten now.” Although the Flames did claim the 2013 Big South title, Perritt has already set his goals for 2014 even higher. “I’m just hungry for more,” Perritt said. “We got a small taste of what we can do last year. This year, I feel like we’re a lot more capable.” When the Flames open their season in 2014, the playing field will again be evened and the best team will take home the title, but for now, they are still champions. LEASURE is the editor in chief.
terian College and Coastal Carolina. The Flames hope to use their home-field advantage to avenge last season’s loss to the Chanticleers. “I feel bad for (Coastal Carolina). It’s definitely gonna be something that they got set up (for) … in this whole situation of being picked first and then
Who exactly is Johnny Manziel? Is he the next Robert Griffin III, Ryan Leaf, or can he even be plain old “Johnny Football” again? As the first freshman to ever win the Heisman Trophy, Manziel should have been making headlines about the possibility of leading his Texas A&M team to a national title and perhaps becoming FOOTE only the second player to ever win the Heisman Trophy twice. However, Manziel’s off-the-field antics have put into question not only his character, but also his future on the football field. Manziel is one of the most electrifying players college football has ever seen. As a freshman, the Texas A&M quarterback set the SEC record for most total yards in a year, eclipsing former stars such as Cam Newton and Tim Tebow. Unfortunately, the 20-year-old Manziel has seemingly let the fame and media attention create a downward spiral in his personal life, which could create harsh consequences on the field as well. The most recent scandal Manziel has found himself in is the alleged acceptance of money for autographing footballs and pictures. According to controversial NCAA rules, a student-athlete cannot accept any form of gift or payment. The NCAA’s website used to sell replica jerseys of players such as Manziel and made millions of dollars off the student athlete’s names, but student athletes are not allowed to make a penny off of their own names. So it is ironic that of all Manziel’s wrongdoings, such as being kicked out of parties at his rival school, tweeting profanity-laced tirades about how he cannot wait to leave College Station, spending
coming here, because nobody likes to come in here and play,” Fogg said. Additionally, the Flames will travel to the University of Richmond to face former Liberty coach Danny Rocco’s Spiders. Although the game may make headlines around Liberty, Gill is focused only on his team’s preparation and
a night in jail, or skipping out on the Manning Passing Academy, he might be in trouble for signing a few autographs. Even though most disagree with the NCAA rule Manziel supposedly broke, Manziel should follow the rules, and being suspended for this reason might just be fitting. Even Manziel’s parents have made public their concern for their son. “It could come unraveled,” Paul Manziel told ESPN the Magazine. “And when it does, it’s gonna be bad. Real bad. It’s one night away from the phone ringing and he’s in jail. And you know what he’s gonna say? ‘It’s better than all the pressure I’ve been under. This is better than that.’” Manziel is at a crossroads in his career, and being only 20 years old, he still has an amazing opportunity to turn his life around and be a star at the college and professional levels. Some have questioned how Manziel’s skillset and height would translate to the NFL, but quarterbacks such as Drew Brees and Russell Wilson have thrived despite being undersized. Manziel has demonstrated on the field that he has all the physical tools to succeed at the next level. Not only does Manziel have a strong and accurate arm, but he also has the ability to change the game with his feet. The question Manziel must answer not only for his fans and the media, but also for himself and his family, is whether the fame is worth the stress it brings. Maybe being ruled ineligible by the NCAA is the best way for Manziel to take a step back from the spotlight and concentrate on straightening out his life off the field so he can return to the field as the “Johnny Football” who captivated the sports world last season. FOOTE is the asst. sports editor.
performance in games. “It’s an important game because it’ll be the next game that we play,” Gill said. Overall, Liberty players and coaches have the goals of winning the conference and Football Championship Subdivision championships and believe they have the ability to accom-
plish those goals. “I think God definitely assembled this team for this year … to make it into something great and be something very remarkable and memorable for us at Liberty,” Fogg said. BROWN is a copy editor.
FEATURE
AUGUST 27, 2013
Liberty Champion/ B5
Concert brings laughter and song Michael Tate and Brad Stine shared the stage Sunday at Thomas Road Baptist Church with music and comedy Dillon Sherlock djsherlock@liberty.edu
Christian comedian Brad Stine and Liberty alumnus and contemporary Christian artist Michael Tait shared the stage Sunday, Aug. 25, at Thomas Road Baptist Church for a night filled with hearty laughter and passionate music. Brad Stine made his return to Thomas Road for the first time in 10 years and immediately had the crowd laughing nonstop. By taking quick stabs at members of the audience, he made sure everyone stayed alert for the remainder of the show. Stine is a well-versed comedian who incorporates the gospel presentation into each performance, making it clear to every audience where he stands religiously. He even used the acronym GOD to get his message across: geniuses, our fault and deliverance. According to Nashville-born Stine, he got his start when he was young and defined his beliefs from the beginning. “When I started out in clubs, I always did it clean. It’s harder, but that’s what makes it worth something, because it means I have to be a good writer,” Stine said. “To me, the arts are about reaching the highest level without compromising your beliefs.” According to Stine, clean and familyfriendly comedy is something that is increasingly hard to come by in this day and age, but Stine sees it as a challenge and uses that to improve his art. “It shouldn’t be a hindrance, it should
Jill Springer | Liberty Champion
SOLO — Michael Tait, alumnus and Newsboys lead singer, performed Sunday. foster creativity and make you become even greater than the people who go to a curse word for the punch line instead of cleverness and creativity,” Stine said. Closing off the night was Michael Tait, a Christian artist who is no stranger to the Liberty University community. He attended Liberty in the late 1980s where he met Toby McKeehan and Kevin Max. The three later went on to form DC Talk, a GRAMMY Award-winning contemporary Christian group. Jonathan Falwell, Thomas Road’s
head pastor, said he is a huge supporter of both of the night’s artists. “Michael’s been a friend of mine for years. Even going back to childhood we were friends,” Falwell said. “So it’s always fun to be with him.” Tait led the congregation in an a capella version of the hymn “Nothing but the Blood,” and hundreds of voices joined Tait’s and resounded throughout the sanctuary. Whether it is music, comedy or any other means of entertainment, accord-
ing to Falwell, Thomas Road strives to keep Christ at the center and will never dismiss an audience until the gospel has been presented. “My dad used the phrase ‘saturation evangelism,’ which is using every available means at every available time to reach every available person, and this has just been one more example of that,” Falwell said. SHERLOCK is a news reporter.
TRBC Lifegroup plants church in St. Petersburg Sara Warrender sewarrender2@liberty.edu
Familiar faces smiled warmly at a computer screen placed in the middle of the room as an eager hello echoed through the webcam and around the house in Lynchburg where Reliance Lifegroup was having its weekly meeting. Born out of Thomas Road Baptist Church, Reliance Lifegroup is a small gathering of Christians that grew into a motivated group working towards the same goal. The members felt God calling them to Florida. “What we want to do is we want to show them (the St. Petersburg community) what belonging to Christ is really all about,” Danny Lewis, head pastor of Reliance Lifegroup, said. “They don’t need another church building, they need authentic life. They need a real life in Christ.” According to Danny, after hearing of the spiritual need in Florida, he began praying with his wife, Mary, about the possibility of planting a church in St. Petersburg. As the head pastor of the Reliance Lifegroup, Danny brought his prayer request about planting a church in St. Petersburg before the members. Several responded by sharing their feelings of a similar call in their lives. “We’re at the starting line and just waiting for God’s green light,” Devin Quesenberry, a member of Reliance Lifegroup, said. Danny and Mary, along with their two daughters, made the move to St. Petersburg, Fl., July 1, 2013, to begin making a difference in the community. Currently, four of the members of Reliance Lifegroup have joined them in Florida, while others, such as Quesenberry and his wife Sar-
CONCERT continued from B8
to fans posted on prp.com. “So, I’m stepping down to refocus my life on God and work on strengthening my relationship with him.” Franck’s music conveys a Christian message and, according to Dawson, Franck will also speak to students about the legal and busi-
ah, are preparing for the move. However, because a number of Reliance Lifegroup members are alumni or current students of Liberty, they must stay and make a difference in Lynchburg rather than in Florida for now. “This has been going on for a while, we’re all kind of running a long race right now, but in the moment, if you just take perspective, it’s crazy how God showed up,” Quesenberry said. The core group of Reliance Lifegroup members in Lynchburg has remained active with the planting of Reliance Church. The group has used Facebook to rally support and prayers from other believers and to communicate with Danny about decisions and plans. Also, regardless of the distance, the group still has a sermon from Danny each week over webcam. “We’re going to be a church that reaches the community, and that means that whoever God brings in our path, (from) homeless guys all the way up to Bill Gates, we’re going to minister to these people and invite them to be a part of it,” Quesenberry said. Currently, Reliance Lifegroup in Florida meets at the Lewis’s house each week for worship and a sermon from Danny. During this time, Bethany Hastings runs the Kid’s Reliance Clubhouse, which also meets at the Lewis home. Mary also leads a Reliance women’s ministry. According to Danny, he plans on Reliance Church being composed of many small groups that provide individual attention while the church as a whole will have corporate Wednesday and Sunday worship services. “We want to live life beside people, not just witness to people,” Danny said. “We believe in Christ, we believe in their need for Christ, but we want them to
ness consequences related to leaving Attack Attack!. He will also address the difficulties in producing music without a major record label backing. In addition to producing his own music, Franck also produces the music of Christian rock bands. “It’s going to be a fun night, and hopefully some people will get something
Photos Provided
NEW BEGINNINGS — Reliance Lifegroup is planting a church in Florida. see Christ in our lives and not just hear about Christ from our mouths.” After service each Sunday, Reliance Lifegroup goes into the community to reach people. According to Danny, the group has adopted a local restaurant where members enter wearing church T-shirts and make a statement simply with their presence. When members of the community express curiosity about the group, it is then that Reliance Lifegroup will begin to engage the people of the neighborhood. “Because of the diversity of religions and the hothead of different philosophies and topics, it’s an area that’s more hostile to the gospel,” Reliance Lifegroup member Michael Johnson said. According to the Reliance Church’s official website, St. Petersburg is the most depressed city in America. The headquarters of Scientology is located in a neighboring city and according to Men’s Health in America, St. Petersburg has consistently been
from his testimony too,” Dawson said. “I think that’s the most important part of it.” The concert is $5 for students with a valid Flames Pass and $10 for others. Funds raised by the event will directly benefit SELS and help them purchase a legal journal. SELS members will later contribute to and help produce the jour-
ranked as one of the top ten most dangerous places to live. “Whether or not it’s through Reliance or somewhere else, Liberty students can change the world,” Danny said. “Liberty is a great platform to do so much good.” Reliance Lifegroup is currently in the process of acquiring a building for services. Liberty University will be sending a team to Florida Oct. 24-27 to
nal. Dawson also hopes to use a portion of the club’s funds to send members to negotiation tournaments. The concert will be held Sept. 13 in Towns Auditorium at 7 p.m., with doors opening at 6:30 p.m.
WARRENDER is the feature editor.
help with the church’s official opening. As a missions trip, Liberty will greet first-time visitors to the church, welcoming them through the doors and helping to lead them to a life spent with Christ. Visit reliance-church. com for information about the trip or ways to help Reliance. WARRENDER is the feature editor. Photo Provided
ROCKIN’ — Franck will be preforming Sept. 13 in Towns Auditorium.
FEATURE
AUGUST 27, 2013
Liberty Champion/ B6
Ruth Bibby | Liberty Champion
STORY TIME — Clayton King keeps students’ attention with his stories and unique presentation of the gospel during Spiritual Emphasis Week.
King emphasizes God’s amazing grace Megan Berry mberry33@liberty.edu
Clayton King brought laughter and tears during this year’s Spiritual Emphasis Week, which began Wednesday, Aug. 21. According to claytonking. com, the speaker’s official website, he has traveled to 31 countries and 45 states, yet each year he makes the trip to Liberty for Spiritual Emphasis Week to share God’s word with students. “(He is) very passionate about what he does. He acknowledged everyone, and it wasn’t just about getting saved but (about) how you can give your life to Christ,” Liberty student Corey Sheron said.
As Liberty’s campus pastor, King often expresses his gratitude for the school and the students that show love for Christ. “I think it’s kind of crazy that he lives in a different state and makes the trip so often, but I think that says something about how much he cares for the students here,” Liberty student Emily Blake said. King taught from the John 8 story of the woman caught in adultery during his third sermon of the week. “I like how Clayton King opened my eyes to how the Pharisees set the woman up and how Jesus knelt down in the ground to show humility,” Liberty student
Aaron Davenport said. According to King, Jesus did not accuse this woman but humbled himself to save her from the death she was destined to face. “Clayton King talked about how we are caught red-handed in sin,” Liberty student Jordan Ginn said. “ … I have a disorder called Raynaud’s phenomenon, so many times my hands turn red because of my blood flowing. Now when I see my hands, I think of the blood of Jesus flowing and the amazing grace found in Him.” At the end of each sermon, hundreds of students came forward, either professing faith in Christ or laying down their guilt and
Ruth Bibby | Liberty Champion
PRAYER — Hundreds of students came forward during invitations. life of sin and rededicating their lives to Him. “We need to tell Jerry Jr. to build a bigger Vines Center just for the invitation,” King said in the
closing invitation. As the president of Crossroads Worldwide, Clayton King’s love for students is evident in his unique presentation of the
gospel, his humorous tension breaks and the care he shows for Liberty students. BERRY is a feature reporter.
LU weighs in Nicole Steenburgh nksteenburgh@liberty.edu
Photos Provided
INTERN — (LEFT) Jacobsen stops for a photo in Manhattan. (RIGHT) Jacobsen had an opportunity to be an extra in the upcoming Spider-Man film.
Alumna puts knowledge to use Greg Leasure gleasure@liberty.edu
When Liberty University graduate student Amanda Jacobsen accepted an internship with Leftfield Pictures in New York City in March, she never imagined that she would end up working in casting. Looking back on a summer of work in the company’s casting department, Jacobsen recalled the set of circumstances that led to her eye-opening opportunity to work with shows such as Pawn Stars, American Restoration and Counting Cars, among others. “It was random,” Jacobsen said. “I had messaged my coordinator and said, ‘I don’t have anything to do today.’ He goes, ‘Okay, casting needs help.’ Eight weeks later, I was still working in casting. They really liked me, and they said I’m just really good at what they needed.” She soon found that her new assignment allowed her to use her ability to make connections with people to her advantage
when casting for shows. “Before I got picked to work in casting, I was just doing different jobs like making character boards, running errands, things like that,” Jacobsen said. “So it was really like a God thing that I was chosen to work in casting, because I wasn’t doing typical intern stuff.” Leftfield Pictures works on producing reality television, and according to its website, the company has produced 15 pilots in its history, all of which were made into full-fledged television shows. Jacobsen’s background in television made it a perfect fit. Majoring in television broadcasting while she pursued her undergraduate degree in communications, Jacobsen worked for Option LU, a television show put together by students with the help of graduate assistants. She now co-produces the show as a graduate assistant while she works toward her master’s in media and communication. “Amanda has shown
considerable skill in the producing end of the business — that is, the logistical and organizational side of production,” Liberty Professor Carey Martin, who has had Jacobsen as a student for multiple classes and who also serves as the chairman for her thesis, said. “(She) is a hard-working, outgoing, and creative student.” According to Jacobsen, she met a television casting producer at a get-together with friends eight months ago, and her new acquaintance encouraged her to apply for an internship at Leftfield Pictures. “It was just funny how everything worked out,” Jacobsen said. “If I had moved to California this summer, it would have been tough to write a thesis, (and) see people I care about.” As Jacobsen watched the events of the summer unfolded, she reflected on the path she almost chose in school and how it would have changed her future. “Honestly, I thought I was going to be a business
major,” Jacobsen said. “I really just didn’t know what direction I wanted God to take me. I’ve always had (a) vision of grandeur types of things. And I said, ‘Well, what’s the next best thing? It has to be doing broadcast.’ Once I started taking classes, I was like, ‘This is it. This is for me.’” Jacobsen had another brush with the entertainment industry when her father met a location director for “The Amazing Spider-Man 2.” After exploring the possibility of an internship on the set of the movie, she eagerly accepted the chance to just work as an extra. She will graduate in December, but Jacobsen said she still leaves the door open for wherever God chooses to lead her. Whatever it is, chances are it will probably come straight out of left field. LEASURE is the editor in chief.
The LaHaye Student Union is expanding the selection of programs offered by bringing a new weight management program to Liberty University. This program, running from Aug. 19 – Dec. 13, is based on goals and accountability. Those who are involved in the program will have the opportunity to meet monthly with one of the trainers from the LaHaye Student Union, according to Jamie Swyers, director of fitness. The trainers are there to help participants work toward and complete their goals in areas such as weight, body fat percentage and body mass index. “It is a way for students to keep track of their progress through the year,” Nicole Williams, member service manager of the Tilley Center said. “It is a better way to help and serve the students.” The initial meeting with a trainer will involve discussion to provide the student with a starting point to achieving their goals. “It is like an accountability partner,” Jason Kolar, a manager of the student union said. The trainer will not be accompanying each student to his or her workouts, but instead, the trainer will act as a guide and will be there for planning and encouragement. Once goals are set and routines are underway, members of the program will meet with their instructors once each month until the end of the program. These meetings will
allow participants to keep up with their goals by discussing with trainers their progress, as well as any improvements that should be made to goals and plans. Each time the students meet with a trainer, the latest progress will be recorded on a detailed, easyto-read chart. “They will literally see on the page where they have come from,” Swyers said. According to management at the student union, there were many students asking for a new fitness program as well as a return of the Lahaye LUser weight loss competition. The weight management assistance program was the resulting compromise. “We wanted to take the competition out of it,” Swyers said. “We wanted to touch more people than the Lahaye LUser program was able to.” The new program also has the added benefit of being open to not only students, but also faculty and staff, according to Swyers. “This is going to be great,” Swyers said. “We’ve never done something like this before.” This is the kickoff semester of this program, which is free of charge. Students, faculty and staff who are interested in joining can sign up in the LaHaye Student Union Center. For more information, visit the LaHaye Student Union’s official website at liberty.edu/campusrec/ studentunion.
STEENBURGH is a feature reporter.
FEATURE
AUGUST 27, 2013
Liberty Champion/ B7
Ruth Bibby | Liberty Champion
RODEO — Spectators cheered on one student as he took a turn on the mechanical bull, one of many rides at the event.
Student Activities hosts annual Block Party 7eventh Time Down and Red played a live performance Saturday night for both new and returning students Jeremy Beale jbeale3@liberty.edu
As the new semester began, students navigated a busy week, which included Spiritual Emphasis Week as well as regularly scheduled classes, at Liberty University. While students remained active, Student Activities members organized the annual fall kick-off event, the Block Party. Liberty students, faculty and alumni gathered Aug. 24 in the LaHaye Student Union parking lot to enjoy the longstanding Liberty tradition of enjoying carnival rides, including a ferris wheel and a mechanical bull, live music and a fireworks show.
“I think it is awesome how many people attended the Block Party this year,” Student Activities Coordinator Dylan Stine said. “Just watching students foster relationships and enjoy themselves was all we, at Student Activities, wanted out of the Block Party.” The live music portion of the evening included premiere band 7eventh Time Down and rock band Red. Lead vocalist for 7eventh Time Down Mikey Howard started the night off strong, thanking Liberty University and the crowd for attending “We are just some rednecks who love to get rowdy and praise
the Lord,” Howard said. As the 7eventh Time Down finished its performance, lead guitarist Eric Vanzant acknowledged the crowd. “If it were not for God and our fans at Liberty we would not be a band, and it is those reasons we thank you guys.” Following the opening act, students slowly began to move toward the stage in anticipation of the arrival of Red. Red then played 10 straight sets, including two encores. Michael Barnes, Red’s lead vocalist, also took a moment to encourage students between the band’s songs. “A lot of you coming to Liber-
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“
We are just some rednecks who love to get rowdy and praise the Lord. — MIKE HOWARD
ty University may feel alone, but in this moment no one is alone,” Barnes said. “… and tonight you guys are making friends,” Students from all different walks of life came together to celebrate the start of a new school year. “It is the traditions that Lib-
erty holds onto that makes these events so much fun,” sophomore Joshua Drumm said. Whether it was listening to the bands, watching the fireworks show or having caricatures drawn that brought students together, the Block Party continued its tradition of fostering friendships. “I want to thank Student Activities for a great event and encourage everyone to come out to the Block Party next year, because it was really fun,” sophomore Olivia Allen said. BEALE is a feature reporter.
Liberty Champion
FEATURE
AUGUST 27, 2013
B8
Photo Provided
SOARING — Caroline Trexler anticipates having eight to 10 members on the newly-added equestrian team that will compete against other colleges in the region.
Equestrian team hosts tryouts
As an official club sport, the Liberty Women’s Equestrian Team is preparing before competitions begin Emily Webster ewebster@liberty.edu
Equestrian enthusiasts will soon take up their saddles and compete for a spot on the new women’s club team, the most recent expansion to Liberty’s club sports program. Caroline Trexler, barn manager and head coach of the equestrian team, said students have wanted to create an equestrian team even before the new facility was built. After receiving approval from the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA), the association that governs collegiate competitions, Trexler said she will piece together a team using the tryouts and evaluation rides. “That’s what we’re working on right now,” Trexler said. “(We are) fitting in when we’re going to have our evaluation rides and our tryouts, so we’ll probably be having some later this week and probably some next week.” Trexler said that she anticipates having about eight to 10 people on the team, a relatively small group, but the IHSA does not impose a numbers limit on its teams. According to Trexler, IHSA has eight different divisions from basic beginner riding to more accomplished divisions. A rider can only compete in one division until
enough points are won to move to the next division or until a rider’s abilities have progressed enough to be moved to the next division. “(We’ll be) trying to plug in our riders so that we don’t have five open riders and … in a perfect world, of course, aligning so we’ve got even distribution of students amongst those divisions,” Trexler said. “The best capacity that you have to be successful in a show is to have riders in every division.” Along with three or four shows during the semester, Trexler said that there will be weekly group and individual riding lessons. She also said that she is excited to provide riders with informational seminars. “You end up having a huge number of students, particularly in this sort of an environment, become proficient riders, particularly a lot of your students that board,” Trexler said. “They become good riders, but are completely, completely clueless when it comes to a lot of other aspects of horse keeping. So what we’re hoping to do is set up seminars where students will become more well-rounded horse people.” Kirk Handy, Liberty director of Club Sports, said that he is excited for the new equestrian team’s opportunity to represent Liberty.
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We want to build this thing into a national powerhouse. — KIRK HANDY
“We have a great facility,” Handy said. “We have a coach up there, Caroline, and we’ve just hired another one, Lori Matthews, up there who are going to be awesome for Liberty students. It’s going to be awesome to build our program. We want to build this thing into a national powerhouse.” Handy said he holds no concerns for the new team and that the ultimate goal is to win a national championship and to have riders ranked in the top of the equestrian world. “I think you have to be realistic, though,” Handy said. “Our goals in year one (are) to get off and running and to develop a program there that’s going to be well recognized in the equestrian world. And I think that’s the biggest part. Let’s build the base of the team first. Let’s build it strong. Let’s make sure that we set our foundational pillars in place to make sure we’re setting this thing up for success, and I believe we are.” Similar to Handy, Trexler said
her semester goal is to create a functional team that rides successfully and, down the road, to build on that team to become a stronger competitor in the region. “It’s going to be a challenging region to go into,” Trexler said. “The shows that we will be competing with on a show-toshow level are Sweet Briar College, Hollins College, Bridgewater College (and) Randolph College … and having that kind of competition in our region is going to be very challenging for us, because it is such a brutally challenging region. However, competing against that type of program and that type of rider provides such an opportunity for growth. The better the competition is, the better you have to be.” Trexler said it is important to build and develop a riding program where the riders and coaches embrace a unique mindset. “One of the biggest things that we try to embrace and enforce up here at the barn is that everyone that comes up here, regardless of whether it is a student
that has never ridden a horse before, a student that might have a $600 horse (or) a student that has a $50,000 horse … they can have a quality and a positive riding experience and feel welcome and learn something and be embraced,” Trexler said. Understanding the importance of this mindset, Handy said that he is impressed by the people involved with the new equestrian team. “God brings people to specific areas of Liberty University where their hearts are at,” Handy said. “The people we’re attracting up there, like Lori Matthews and people like that, aren’t casual equestrian people. These are people who know what they’re doing. That’s an amazing thing you see here at Liberty.” Times for tryouts at Liberty’s Equestrian Center are still to be announced. For more information regarding the new equestrian team, email Caroline Trexler at cgmartin4@liberty.edu WEBSTER is a feature reporter.
SINCE YOU WERE GONE SELS Club Sara Warrender
The Tilley Over the summer, the Tilley Student Center added a second level.
Green Hall CASAS offices moved from DeMoss to the second floor in Green Hall.
Courtney Russo | Liberty Champion Courtney Russo| Liberty Champion
DeMoss New floors replaced the tile in DeMoss.
Wards Road Construction began on the Wards Road bridge.
Ruth Bibby | Liberty Champion
Sewarrender2@liberty.edu
The newly founded Law School’s Sports and Entertainment Law Society (SELS) hosted its first open house on Friday, Aug. 16. The club, founded by Paige Wells along with current student and vice president of SELS John Maghamez, has 20 founding members. “Our mission … is to get a better understanding of what are the legal issues in the entertainment industry and music, movies and sports industry and, as Christians, how we can interact with that and how we can make a difference in those industries through our legal knowledge,” Josh Dawson, the club’s second vice president, said. Through SELS, students will gain many opportunities to apply the knowledge they are gaining in the classroom. “I am working very hard to grow the law school in a positive direction and give the students, including myself, the greatest opportunity to serve the Lord during law school and after graduation,” Dawson said. The first SELS-hosted event will be a concert Sept. 13, featuring Johnny Franck, the former lead guitarist of Attack Attack!, which is an electronica band that incorporates metal and rock elements into its songs. Franck left Attack Attack! on Nov. 10, 2010. “I put the band above God, and that’s something that was really damaging to me,” Franck said during his farewell video
Ruth Bibby | Liberty Champion
See CONCERT, B5 Breann Black | Liberty Champion