Remembering 9/11 A3
LIBERTY CHAMPION Today: Rain 65/60 Tomorrow: Showers 69/65
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Libertychampion.com
Volume 29 • Issue 02
Redistricting not yet on the docket
Bridging Wards Road
Potential changes would impact campus voting Justin Jones jljones9@liberty.edu
A new redistricting plan for the City of Lynchburg has been proposed by city staff and the electoral board, but has not yet been put on the docket for approval by City Council. If Lynchburg undergoes a redistricting of its local wards, it would create a ripple effect throughout the community and render Liberty University a possible new polling location. When wards are given new boundaries, it changes where people vote, and for whom they will be voting. Lynchburgva. gov, the city’s official website, defines redistricting as “redrawing electoral boundaries… and is typically brought on by changes in population.” “The biggest growth has been in Ward III” Cities often have to undergo these changes whenever the results come in from the decennial census, as done in 2010. Results posted on the city’s website show that from 2000 to 2010, the city grew from 65,200 to 75, 568 residents. That change represents nearly a 16 percent growth. To be in compliance with the Voting Rights Act, Lynchburg must keep its four wards within a plus or minus five percent of each other. The ideal situation is that all four of its wards each contain 25 percent of the people in population size. When the results came out in the 2010 census that Wards II and III had altered to a percentage that would place them out of the plus or minus five percent cushion, it revealed that changes needed to be made. According to Helgeson, the wards sizes do not have to be identical, but they have to be fairly close. “The biggest growth has been in Ward III and the biggest decline has been in Ward II,” Jeff Helgeson, Ward III representative for City Council, said. A lot of the growth in Ward III is due to the growth of Liberty University. As Liberty University has expanded, Chancellor Jerry Falwell Jr. has made a push
Ruth Bibby|Liberty Champion
BRIDGE OPENING — The new pedestrian bridge was hauled in and installed early in the morning of Friday, Sept. 2. Residents awoke to find the new, steel structure spanning Wards Road from Panera to Sam’s Club.
Plans for library on the table
See REDISTRICTING, A2
Self-check points, virtual browsing option and extra study space are proposed in order to give students better service at new library Rahab Mugwanja rwmugwanja@liberty.edu
Liberty University’s students have not yet seen all the changes happening on campus, because in the works are plans for a new library. The new library is still in the proposal concept stage in terms of scale and location, according to Dean of the Integrated Learning Resource Center Carl Merat. “We have not yet reached the design stage yet,” Merat said. Even though the design has not been decided, it is clear what is to be expected of the new building. According to Merat, students should expect the building to be a unique mixture of traditional and contemporary design. Also included is a mixture of technology, which will make the browsing-forbooks routine a whole new experience to many. “The building, which will replace the
(current) Schilling building, will be potentially four floors,” Merat said. “It will have atrium space and natural light.” The building will include flexible learning and studying spaces in most floors, but the idea is that the higher a person goes, the quieter the floors will be. Plans also include a Writing Center, Curriculum Library, Reference and Research section, Graduate and Faculty Commons and Honors offices. However, most of the space will be dedicated to undergraduate students. The customer service is also expected to be of a new, high standard because of the reduction of multiple, large desks. There will also be an integrated service point with mobile service and self-check points located in different parts of the library. Another helpful feature will be the virtual browse aspect of the LUCAS catalog, where you can find whatever you are looking for in mere seconds instead of having to go down
aisle after aisle to find a single book. Perhaps the most exciting feature of all will be the automated storage and retrieval system, otherwise known as “book retrieval robot,” where access to docuThe new library ments and books could hold will be simplified. almost twice With universities as many books such as Valparaiso, as the current library. University of Chicago, Colgate, North Carolina State and even Sweet Briar College here in Lynchburg embracing the use of the robot, it is sure to become an instant hit with Liberty’s student body. The new library is also estimated to hold 450,000 volumes of print collection, up from the 275,000 volumes currently in the library.
FYI
See LIBRARY, A2
INSIDE THE CHAMPION
News
Heroes Fund
Scholarship set up to assist wounded warriors and families. A2
Sports
Events
The best players for your team — and the worst. B3
Main St. gets ready for its big event. B6
Fantasy Football
Get Downtown
News...............................................A2 Opinion..........................................A6 Sports..............................................B1 Feature............................................B4 Events.............................................B6 Wellness..........................................B6
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NEWS
A2/Liberty Champion
September 6, 2011
Lynchburg to participate in 9-11 Heroes Run Local commemorative event raises support and fund for fallen heroes
Katherine Lacaze kelacaze@liberty.edu
Across the City of Lynchburg, citizens will participate in commemorative events and activities on Sept. 11 in memory of the terrorist attacks that occurred 10 years ago. One of these events is the 9-11 Heroes Run, a national event that is put on by the Travis Manion Foundation for the purpose of honoring those who have sacrificed their lives for the sake of the nation. The run will take place at 2 p.m. on Sept. 11 in Lynchburg, starting and ending at Central Virginia Community College. The 9-11 Heroes Run program was inspired by the Manions’ son, Travis, who was a 1st Lieutenant in the Marine Corps, according to Mike Walsh, the director of development at the Travis Manion Foundation. “During a patrol mission on Sunday, April 29, 2007, Travis was killed by enemy sniper fire in the Al Anbar Province of Iraq while fighting courageously to defend against an enemy ambush,” the official website for the Travis Manion Foundation 9-11 Heroes Run. This event originated in the Manion’s hometown of Doylestown, Penn., according to Walsh, but it has now become
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SUPPORT — Runners showed up in droves for last year’s run in Annapolis, Md. an annual, national event with 29 communities across the states participating in the race, as well as cities in five foreign countries. “The idea is to give Americans, community by community, a chance to run, volunteer, donate and cheer, but most of all, to honor all those who have given their lives on Sept. 11, 2001, and since,” Walsh said. The race is a way for citizens to provide support for families who are still going through the healing process and to commemorate those who have given their lives in service, both during the ter-
REDISTRICTING continued from A1 for students to make a difference in the community by becoming registered voters. In 2008, Teresa Dunham reported for Liberty News that 4,200 voter registration forms had been collected by Liberty’s commuter office. By being counted in the community, the students’ vote could make a great impact by putting council members in place that would protect Liberty and its future plans. A leading hand behind the redistricting project is City Attorney Walter Erwin, who explained how the city will restructure the wards. “Voters in Ward III will move into Ward II and with this proposed shift, all four will be within five percent of the ideal population,” Erwin said. Erwin said that by redistricting, it will protect the one person, one vote principle, which is dependent upon having near equal population per ward. “It keeps population levels even and helps prevent overcrowding at the polls,” Erwin said. “When we keep the precincts balanced, it makes voting a lot easier.” Erwin and Helgeson said that Liberty University is likely to become a voting center after the redistricting is finalized. “This is a great thing for Liberty,” Helgeson said. “This is what I pushed a few years ago when we had all the problems with congestion at Heritage Elementary School, where the lines were an hour and a half long. Now, this is finally the culmination of that hard work. Liberty Students will have their own polling place. They can walk from their class and vote, or walk from lunch and vote right there on Liberty’s Campus.” To learn more, or to become more involved in the redistricting process, visit lynchbugva.gov for a listing of upcoming meetings open to the public.
rorist attack on Sept. 11, 2001, and since that day. “We have a number of people involved who have lost a family member and this is sort of a way to bring communities together,” Walsh said. There is also the fundraising aspect of the event. The event costs $25 per person to participate in the 5K (up until Sept. 3) and Lynchburg’s fundraiser goal is $5,000, according to the 9-11 Heroes Run website. Individuals can also participate in the Fun Run/Walk or join as a family and get a special family rate, according to information about the 9-11
Heroes Run on Active.com. Walsh said that 25 percent of the money earned is left with a local firstresponder charity in each community, such as a fire department or sometimes just the family of a police officer who was killed. The other 75 percent is used to help families who lost loved ones, but is mostly targeted toward veterans who are in the healing process as well after losing a buddy or friend in combat, according to Walsh. “There’s not enough opportunity for people to go out and tangibly do something to remember the fallen,” Walsh said. “One of the reasons we do this is because it’s something so tangible that you can do. You’re literally doing something. You’re going out, getting a team together, and getting friends together.” With the registration closing date being Sept. 10, there is still time for Lynchburg residents to register for the race or donate to the cause. For more information, e-mail Lynchburg@911heroesrun. com or visit www.911heroesrun.com to learn more about the 9-11 Heroes Run, The Travis Manion Foundation and the marine who inspired it all. LACAZE is the news editor.
Giving back to those who gave it all
Heroes Fund Scholarship assists wounded warriors and spouses Tabitha Cassidy tcassidy@liberty.edu
Heroes come in all shapes and sizes, but Liberty University’s Office of Military Affairs is paying a special tribute to those wounded in combat with the Heroes Fund Scholarship. Recipients of the prominent Purple Heart, veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder and widows or widowers of soldiers killed in combat are eligible to receive the scholarship to help pay tuition costs and fees. The Office of Military Affairs is attempting to help those students who have gone through traumatic experiences, and no longer have any military aid available, get an education. So many young veterans are at a loss financially and have nowhere to turn besides college. Meghan Ellis, the assistant director of Military Affairs at Liberty University, deals with the students who receive this scholarship directly. Those students who receive the scholarship are described by Ellis as being very
grateful. “It’s just amazing to me,” Ellis said. “Those students ... their spouse paid the ultimate price, but so did they.” Being a military spouse herself, Ellis is appreciative that the Heroes Fund Scholarship can help so many military students wishing to continue their education. Despite numerous donations, though, the money does eventually run out. “We would love to see more donations. We can never have too many,” Ellis said. The scholarship is funded completely by the Liberty University community and is known as a donor’s scholarship. There is no limit to how many awards are given out each year, but students are only able to get the funding for one degree level at a time. The scholarship fills in the gaps that other scholarships or federal aid cannot cover. The only situation in which a deserving candidate cannot receive the scholarship is when the money runs out.
“There’s a lot of … service members coming back from many deployments that really only a certain generation of people understand what they’re going through,” Ellis said. After 10 years of war and deployment in the Middle East, there are many young veterans returning to the United States with nowhere to go. With scholarships and benefits from donors given by the Heroes Fund Scholarship, veterans can get a quality education and better their lives without going into debt. “For most of them it’s just a dream come true,” Ellis said. Deserving candidates are encouraged to contact the Office of Military Affairs or fill out an application to receive this award for their sacrifices during war. Donations can be sent to Military Scholarship Donation, 1971 University Boulevard, Lynchburg, VA 24502. CASSIDY is a news reporter.
JONES is a news reporter
LIBRARY continued from A1 Everything is already set in motion for a library change, thanks to a $280,000 book budget approval by Chancellor Jerry Falwell Jr. “I really cannot wait to see what the new library will look like and maybe then I will be stopping by more,” senior Rahab Kamau said. The concept stage is estimated to take between seven to nine months, but the earliest estimate is 2013, Merat said. Omar Adams|Liberty Champion
MUGWANJA is a news reporter.
GIVING BACK — The Heroes Fund Scholarship provides tuition assistance to wounded veterans and their families.
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SPECIAL REPORT
Remembering 9/11
U.S. honors 10-year anniversary By: Katherine Lacaze
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early 10 years ago, the United States of America experienced a terrorist attack on the World Trade Center that destroyed the Twin Towers, damaged the Pentagon and affected the entire nation. This Sept. 11, there will be activities and events held in all states to commemorate the anniversary of this incident, including significant events in key cities, such as New York City and Washington, D.C. One important event is the dedication and opening of The National September 11 Memorial at the World Trade Center in New York City, which will take place on Sept. 11 and 12, respectively. According to the 9/11 Memorial website, an accompanying Memorial Museum will also be open to the public sometime in September of 2012. “The 9/11 Memorial is located at the site of the former World Trade Center complex in lower Manhattan, and occupies approximately half of the 16-acre site,” according to the 9/11 Memorial website. “The 9/11 Memorial features two enormous waterfalls and reflecting pools, each about an acre in size, set within the footprints of the twin towers.” In Washington, D.C., activities will be taking place at various locations within the city. The Washington
National Cathedral is hosting an event entitled “Call to Compassion,” which will present several activities throughout the weekend of Sept. 9 through 11, including concerts, an Interfaith Prayer Vigil and other commemorative events. “In the days following the 9/11 attacks, our nation came together to pray, reflect, and mourn,” according to the Call to Compassion website. “Washington National Cathedral was honored to serve as the spiritual home for our nation during those tragic, uncertain times. Now, a decade later, we come together again to remember the victims and heroes of 9/11, as well as the nearly 6,000 service members whose lives have since been lost in Iraq and Afghanistan.” Countless other events are taking place within the Washington, D.C. region, including special 10th anniversary commemorative activities for victims of 9/11 and their families at the Pentagon Memorial, according to The National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial website. Many cities across the nation are hosting races, concerts, activities and interfaith gatherings, among a myriad of other events, to honor the memory of those who were injured or died during the attack that took place 10 years ago, Sept. 11, 2001.
September 6, 2011
NEWS
A4/Liberty Champion
Family’s faith helps cope in fear Liberty alumna recalls impact of nation’s tragedy on personal worries, concerns
Dominique McKay dgmckay@liberty.edu
Kirsten Wilson sits down on the sectional in the living room of her townhome, located at the top of Liberty Mountain. She picks up her small dog, places him on her lap and begins to tell her story — a story filled with fragmented images of fear and faith. “We were proud New Yorkers. Sept. 11 happened when I was in the ninth grade,” she said. Wilson’s now home of Lynchburg, Va., is a far cry from her Long Island roots of East Northport, N.Y. As Wilson’s family made their home just minutes away from the city, her father, Craig Filiberto, would commute into the city each day for his work as vice president for the controller’s department at Prudential. His office sat just a few blocks away from New York City’s World Trade Centers. On Sept. 11, 2001, Filiberto sat at his desk, his back to his window. The first plane hit. As he and his co-workers got up to assess the situation, he watched as the second plane entered into the side of the second building and exploded in front of him. There were screams from his co-workers. Filiberto reached down for his phone. Wilson was in the first few weeks of her first year of high school. She remembers sitting in second period when she heard about the attacks. Her teacher turned on the news and students whose parents worked in New York City were requested to go to the school’s office. “Growing up on Long Island, the majority of people work in the city so there
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FATHER AND DAUGHTER — Kristen Wilson and her father Craig Filiberto, native New Yorkers, spend time together in New York City. Kristen and her family have seen the developments at Ground Zero over the past 10 years since Sept. 11, 2001. was a flood of students who went to the office. A lot of the faculty had to leave and I ended up leaving school early,” Wilson said. “This was before my dad had a cell phone, so even though I was home watching everything on the news, we didn’t know where he was, if he was going to get home that night or what was going on,” Wilson said. In a time when cell phones were not as easily accessible as they are today, Wilson could not get in touch with her father. She later learned her father phoned her mother after the second plane hit, but cut
off the conversation when the first tower began to fall. That night, the Wilson’s church had a prayer service. Filiberto returned home late that evening after taking the trek across the Brooklyn Bridge by foot, covered in soot and remnants of debris. “He was so dirty from what had happened, he just came home, sat on the couch and said nothing,” Wilson said. “He was just processing everything that he saw, his building was so close. He could see the people who were jumping out of the towers. I could never imagine seeing what he saw and having to deal with that.”
In 2005, Wilson graduated from high school. Her school dedicated their history wing to the victims of Sept. 11, 2001, and posted the names of the victims on the wall with their occupation and age. “Before Sept. 11, 2001, you always assumed the city was so safe, who would ever want to do that to someone,” Wilson said. “Before that, terrorism was rarely on anybody’s mind, but afterwards, it was on everybody’s mind.” Wilson said today her family still goes into the city all the time and sees a change in the security and presence of law enforcement. “Nobody knew this was going to happen,” Wilson said. “When the buildings fell, who would have thought that would happen. It’s crazy.” Wilson and her family have watched through the past 10 years as Ground Zero has changed and developed. “I went right after it happened when it was debris and garbage, when it was just holes in the ground and then, now, as it’s being built up again,” she said. Wilson hopes to return after the new Freedom Tower is built. “No New Yorker will ever forget where they were and how they felt. It touched everyone in some way. For me, it was my dad and not knowing what was going to happen,” she said. “So many people were affected and that area will always be respected.” Today, Wilson lives and works as a teacher’s assistant in the city of Lynchburg. Her husband, Daniel, works for Liberty, where her brother Kevin Filiberto is currently a student. Wilson’s father still lives and works in New York. MCKAY is a graduate assistant
Tragedy gives clarity through wreckage Alumna learns journalistic truths Amanda Sullivan amsullivan3@liberty.edu
“Grab a VHS tape. Get out of bed,” Erica Ricci Weidenroth said as she rushed into her roommate and best friend’s dorm room at Liberty University. Johanna Price Calfee groggily wiped the sleep from her eyes, jumped out of bed, grabbed the videotape and ran to the quad’s common room. She shoved the tape in the player and pressed record. “We have everything on tape,” Calfee said. “I’ve never watched it, though.” The day was Sept. CALFEE 11, 2001. The needle on the clock hovered somewhere near the time of 9 a.m. Calfee and Weidenroth joined their Dorm 30 quadmates, where the 10 young women gathered around the tiny TV-VCR combo, watching the horrific events of the terrorist attacks on the United States of America unfold. Although they were far away from the attacks in New York, Pennsylvania and Washington, D.C., fear for loved ones’ safety sat like a heavy weight in the pit of many students’ stomachs. “We were still really scared,” Calfee said. “We weren’t quite sure if we were out of the woods because there were rumors going around that Lynchburg was fourth or fifth on the list of places to be hit because of the nuclear reactors.” The university temporarily cancelled classes to allow for students to gather for a time of fellowship and prayer. “Basically, instead of convo, we had prayer — it was the whole school,” Calfee said. An overwhelming feeling of uncertainty and fear blanketed the Liberty campus. “We were all in a state of shock,” she said. “Cells went down, and there were a lot of panicked parents.” After meeting in the Vines Center for a prayer session, Calfee’s journalistic nature began to kick in.
“I was dying to be on the ground at Ground Zero,” Calfee said. “I wanted first hand experience.” As The Liberty Champion’s opinion editor, Calfee’s mind naturally shifted into reporter mode. Someone had to tell the story — get the facts out. “As opinion editor, my job was to talk about the emotional part,” Calfee said. “I wanted more than anything to tell the story.” But for Calfee, reporting the facts and figures acted more like a catharsis to assuage the wounds left by the bent steel and changed skyline of New York City. “All I could think to do was put it on paper,” Calfee said. Covering the events of Sept. 11, 2001 allowed Calfee the ability to gain a new perspective on the hurt many students on campus were experiencing. “It was very personal for students — especially my New York friends,” Calfee said. “It was terrible for them.” Although Calfee was not in New York City reporting on the events live from Ground Zero, her experiences in Virginia taught her the true meaning of journalism. “It was great training — so shocking, numbing,” Calfee said. “You have to turn off (the emotions) and grieve later.” Even after she graduated, Calfee’s experiences reporting on the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks did not end. Rather, she was eventually able to report from Ground Zero. “I got married and moved to New York City a year later,” Calfee said. “I got first hand experience of New York grieving one year later.” No one can deny that the events on Sept. 11, 2001 were life altering — Calfee doesn’t even attempt to hide the impact the dreadful day had on her life. “For me, it was a defining moment of my college experience,” Calfee said. “You live in a bubble. It’s a safe place. The event was eye opening for what my future career would be covering stories with pain.”
SULLIVAN is a graduate assistant
Mario Tama/Getty Images
AFTERMATH — A firefighter breaks down after the World Trade Center buildings collapsed Sept. 11, 2001 after two hijacked airplanes slammed into the twin towers in a terrorist attack.
My brother, my hero LU student’s personal reflection on Sept. 11, 2001, events
Kyle Van Pelt kmvanpelt@liberty.edu
My brother had only been on the NYC Fire Squad for about two years in 2001. He was married in 1998 while living in Florida working for a local fire department and decided to follow his dream to become a New York City Fireman. The reason I mention this is because of an important conversation that took place between him and my mother. When they were discussing his move to NYC, my mom was worried about the increased danger that would ensue. Then my brother said something that truly confirmed that this was his dream: “Mom, you need to know this. I hope it gives you comfort. Just know that if I ever die in the line of duty, that I died happy without any regret.” September 11, 2001, I was in seventh grade English with Mrs. Turner when we saw the second plane hit the tower. I did not know what to think. I saw all of the rescue squads working fiercely, but for some reason it did not sink in that my brother was involved. My brother was a member of the Rescue 5 squad. Rescue 5 was tasked with running into the buildings and getting people out until they couldn’t any more. It was my brother’s day off, but like a true firefighter, he rushed to the disaster site right after the towers collapsed and picked up where his fallen colleagues had left off. If it were not his day off, he would have
been buried under the piles of rubble fulfilling his duty. Those firefighters put their lives on the line when it was necessary. He lost many friends that day. Finally, after hours without knowing whether or not my brother was alive, my brother handed a piece of paper to a stranger with a phone number and said to the man, “Call my wife and tell her I’m okay.” After his wife got the call and calmed down, she called us to let us know that he was okay. The only reason my brother is still alive today is because it was his day off. If it were a typical workday for him, he would have been running into the buildings vehemently attempting to save as many people as possible. He spent weeks pulling bodies out of the disastrous rubble with little to no sleep. Like a war veteran, my brother hates talking about that day. He says he has never seen anything like it and probably never will again. I know that my family and I could not be any more proud of his actions on that day. He did everything right and I thank God that he is still alive.
9/11
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September 6, 2011
NEWS
Liberty Champion/A5
American tragedy
Our History “Today, our fellow citizens, our way of life, our very freedom came under attack in a series of deliberate and deadly terrorist acts. The victims were in airplanes, or in their offices; secretaries, businessmen and women, military and federal workers; moms and dads, friends and neighbors. Thousands of lives were suddenly ended by evil, despicable acts of terror.” —President George W. Bush
“I remember feeling shocked, angry and sad all at the same time when I heard that the first building fell, then the second. All anyone could do here was pray for the families of the victims and pray that as many New Yorkers as possible would survive.” —Chancellor Jerry Falwell Jr.
“A cloudless blue sky with a perfect temperature. But the morning’s events would mar the beauty of that September day forever...What could we do to help anyone? Pray was the only answer. So we prayed...When you teach journalism, you use current events as part of your lab work. Nothing can compare to the news coverage of that horrible day. ” —Liberty University Professor Deborah Huff
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WORLD TRADE CENTER — Civilians flee the area as a tower of the World Trade Center collapses September 11, 2011 in New York City after two airplanes slammed into the twin towers in a terrorist attack.
“Today, our nation saw evil, the very worst of human nature. And we responded with the best of America — with the daring of our rescue workers, with the caring for strangers and neighbors who came to give blood and help in any way they could.” —President George W. Bush
“The greatest thing I can remember about that day was the amazing decision that Jerry Falwell Sr. made. As soon as we heard about the attacks his first response was to pray.”
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PATRIOTISM IN NEW YORK— U.S. citizens portray resilience and strength in response to national tragedy.
—Pastor Dwayne Carson
“The serenity that we had taken for granted was shattered by terror, and a scar was left, cut deeply into the psyche of all Americans, but especially of young Americans. I remember that moment like it was yesterday. I was in DeMoss Hall 1113/1114 when the world came to a stop. Class was dismissed, televisions were pulled into the hallways, and Dr. Falwell called a university-wide prayer meeting.” —Pastor Johnnie Moore
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THIRD ATTACK — Firefighters struggle to contain a spreading fire after a highjacked commercial jetliner crashed into the Pentagon in Arlington, Va.
OPINION
September 6, 2011
A Patriot moment
Liberty Champion/A6
standing for freedom
Even sports was impacted by tragedy Derrick Battle dbattle2@liberty.edu
Fear, anger, confusion and devastation are few of many words that could describe the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks. Prior to the attacks, the NFL season was well underway, entering its third week of the season. Prominent NFL teams were just beginning to hit their strides, only to be halted by the shattering event. Before Sept. 11, 2001 the Dallas Cowboys were known as America’s team. But that year changed even our attitude about who that title would go to. Days after the attacks, the NFL decided to postpone games scheduled that week in order to remember those who lost their lives. Games originally scheduled for that weekend were moved to the first weekend of January. Meanwhile, that next weekend, the NFL continued to show its support to the Sept. 11 victims by wearing decals and having a moment of silence nationwide. Each week of the NFL season reminded us how life in the nation had changed. Increased security from government buildings to airports to sports arenas reflected the anxiety. All during this time, a star and leader was being born in New England. Tom Brady, a quarterback from the University of Michigan, took over as starter for a struggling Drew Bledsoe. The Patriots started the season with a 1-3 record. Fortunately, Brady led the Patriots from a slow start to a first round bye in the playoffs. The NFL Playoffs began with the Patriots as the number two seed in the AFC conference. After winning two grueling games against the Oakland Raiders and Pittsburgh Steelers, the Patriots made an appearance in the Super Bowl against the St. Louis Rams. A close game throughout, the Patriots were able to cap off a 20-17 victory over the favorite Rams due to a field goal by Adam Vinatieri. For that moment, America rejoiced with the Patriots. And in doing so, honored the real patriots who died on that fateful morning of Sept. 11, 2001. BATTLE is a news writer.
Philip Andrews
10 YEARS LATER — A younger generation is ready to answer the call.
Overcoming adversity Reflecting on the lasting effects of Sept. 11, 2001
Gabe Fowler gfowler2@liberty.edu
T
aking a moment of silence, remembering those who lost their lives or even thanking those who are still fighting for our freedom is not enough. We must never give up—never back down in the face of adversity. Millions of eyes and hearts gripped the edge of reality as the blackened sky and debris on the streets of New York City marked one of the most devastating moments in American history. “No matter how long it may take us to overcome this premeditated invasion, the American people in their righteous might will win through to absolute victory,” President Franklin Roosevelt said in his speech to Congress after the Pearl Harbor attack. Sept. 11, 2001 was no different. The World Trade Center attacks caused damage to our people and destruction to two of our major cities, but as President George W. Bush said in his speech to Congress
M O FRTHE
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GER LIN L O YB
en years ago our country was changed—for better or worse. Our very essence as a free nation was challenged by the perverse attacks of a corrupt sect of people claiming to act in the name of religion. Ask any American about that day, and they can tell you where they were and what they were doing. The events have been embedded into our being. For many at Liberty University, this is the first act of terrorism we ever encountered—the first rumor of
“We must never give up—never back down in the face of adversity.” on Sept. 20, 2001, “Tonight we are a country awakened to danger, and called to defend freedom.” After 10 long years, America has yet to back down from that fight for freedom. We have stripped a terrorist group of a leader who pledged to bring America to its knees. Economic crisis stares back at us like the barrel of a gun, yet the American people hold their ground. The war on terror has yet to come to an end. Still, we struggle. Still, we never back down. The belt of truth, the breast-
war we can remember. I was almost 11 years old. I was sitting in my fifth grade science class at Westminster Christian School located just outside of Chicago. All of the teachers were called over the intercom system to meet in the hallway. As we sat and waited, I can remember feeling confused. Everything seemed off, but no one knew why. Then, they told us. Shock, panic, fear and a surreal sense of loss is all I can remember. My mom was out of town, and I couldn’t remember where she was. I was only 10. We huddled together in the center of the gymnasium around a television and watched the events ASHLEY unfold. No one knew if Chicago BOLLINGER could be next, or if it was over. Everyone was crying, but no one fully understood what had happened that day. Little did we know, as grade school children, that that day marked not only the beginning of a war that we—people in my class and my generation—would
plate of righteousness, the gospel of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which are all from God, speak volumes to how our country has strengthened in these hard times. Remembrance of that day may have become cobwebbed and dusty. College papers need to be written, social life takes up more time than it should and the cup of life is filled too high to fit much more in. Still, when the day nears and words of Sept. 11, 2001 fill the air, the vivid image of where you were, who you were with and how you felt wells up in your heart. Just remember that 10 years ago, those children who witnessed the “religious attacks” are now grown and fighting for our country. The younger generation is also beginning to walk in their mother and father’s footsteps, proud to stand up for their country and fight.
FOWLER is the opinion editor.
fight, but also the beginning of a unity stronger than our nation had ever known. “Terrorist attacks can shake the foundations of our biggest buildings, but they cannot touch the foundation of America,” President George W. Bush said in his Sept. 11 address to the nation. “These acts shatter steel, but they cannot dent the steel of American resolve. America was targeted for attack because we’re the brightest beacon for freedom and opportunity in the world. And no one will keep that light from shining.” Over the past 10 years, these words have proven themselves truer than I think even the President himself thought they would. We have fought hard a war that was begun on soil created for freedom, yet those who attacked us wanted to oppress those freedoms we hold dear. The men and women who have given their lives for our nation during this war have each carried us one step closer to justice. Through a great loss, our nation has claimed a great victory. We have proven that we are, “One nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”
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OPINION
SEPTEMBER 6, 2011
G Y M , T A N N I N G, L AU N D RY
Earthquake fact or fiction Rumors made for poor news Emily Bass embass@liberty.edu
Scott Gries/Picture Group
GET “FITCH”UATED — Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino to refrain from wearing Abercrombie & Fitch clothing.
A failed attempt at publicity ‘Shore’ cast to stop wearing Abercrombie Jasmine Martin jmartin14@liberty.edu
Lately, it seems as though halfnaked models are not generating enough publicity for popular clothing store Abercrombie & Fitch. Because of this, the advertising department at Abercrombie & Fitch decided to try a celebrity publicity stunt. Unfortunately for the company, the plan backfired. On Aug. 16, Abercrombie & Fitch sent out a news release to the general public asking the cast of the MTV show “Jersey Shore,” mainly Michael “The Situation” Sorrentino, to stop wearing their clothing. The plea did not stop there. “We understand that the show is for entertainment purposes, but believe this association is contrary to the aspirational nature of our brand, and may be distressing to many of our fans,” Abercrombie & Fitch’s Brand Senses Department said in the news release. The company also, supposedly, agreed to pay the entire cast a substantial amount of money to stop wearing their clothing. The public relations department of Abercrombie & Fitch must have developed this ridiculous plan in order to boost sales during the back-to-school season.
Abercrombie & Fitch
THE FITCHUATION — A clothing promotion gone wrong.
By getting its target audience to watch the drama between the show and the clothing company, Abercrombie & Fitch hoped to brainwash kids to buy more clothing. “With respect to ‘The Situation,’ Abercrombie & Fitch saw an opportunity to get some advantageous publicity during the all-important back-to-school season,” Senior Retail Analyst for Abercrombie & Fitch John Morris said in the CNNMoney article “Abercrombie drops Nine Percent after ‘Jersey Shore’ diss.” He also said that publicity would make for good water-cooler conversation. Apparently, most students have
water-coolers in their classrooms, or perhaps, Morris meant to say water fountains? Whatever the case may be, once the public had an eye on “The Situation,” Abercrombie & Fitch probably hoped that people would begin to talk about how awesome the company’s clothing is. If the plan worked as it should have, this would have caused a big increase in sales for the company. Unfortunately for Abercrombie & Fitch, the ploy was not successful. Instead of making more money, sales dropped about nine percent in one day. “The stock price for Abercrombie & Fitch fell nearly 10 percent at one point on Wednesday and finished nearly eight percent lower for the day,” reporter for CNNMoney, Aaron Smith, said in his article, “Abercrombie drops Nine Percent after ‘Jersey Shore’ diss.” Maybe Abercrombie & Fitch should have thought about Jersey Shore’s audience demographic. It’s possible that when the show’s viewers heard that their beloved “Situation” was asked not to wear Abercrombie & Fitch’s clothes, they opted for a different brand to wear for “T-Shirt Time.”
MARTIN is an opinion writer.
The largest earthquake ever recorded in Virginia was felt on Tuesday, Aug. 23. With a magnitude measuring at 5.8 and 5.9 in some areas, this quake truly was significant and was felt all the way from North Carolina to parts of Canada. However, it was the rumors afterward that truly put people in an uproar. Naturally, this unusual occurrence became a prominent news angle for reporters and broadcasters, and the race was on to see who would break the story with the most speed. Unfortunately, while speed was the goal in sight, accuracy was slightly overlooked. Afternoon Fox News anchor Megyn Kelly received criticism from other forms of media for hastily reporting that the Washington Monument was tilting as a result of the earthquake. In the segment, she uneasily quotes a Washington, D.C. police officer saying, “They The last time Viginia are concerned experienced an the Washington earthquake of 5.8 Monument may magnitude or greater be tilting.” Later was May 31, 1897 that afternoon, a statement by an unknown source was issued on Foxnews.com, claiming that cracks were found in the monument. “Wouldn’t it be incumbent on a news organization to check out the facts?” Bill Line of the National Park Service asked. Line, who was interviewed by The Washington Post, expressed concern over the rumor by explaining that the National Park Service reported that the Washington Monument was closed and nothing further. Therefore, all other assumptions by Fox News had to have been derived from sources that would hardly seem credible. In fact, although the Monument was closed until pronounced safe due to a four-foot crack, it was virtually unharmed by the earthquake. “It stands tall and proud,” Police Sgt. David Schlosser said in an interview with IBTimes. The confusion of facts left viewers along the East Coast in a state of confusion. Rumors travel fast, but it is a surprise that national reporting is in such a race to deliver information that fact checking is not always the top priority. Fox News is considered by many viewers to be a credible source of news reporting and the incident has been nothing short of a disappointment. Although anchor Megyn Kelly’s segment has been accounted for by Fox News, this situation has truly been an earth shattering shake into reality for reporters and journalists to always carefully check facts and sources before reporting to the public.
FYI
BASS is an opinion writer.
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NEWS
September 6, 2011
SPORTS
SEPTEMBER 6, 2011
Lady Flames run a-fowl in weekend tourney
No. 16 Oregon Ducks prove too much to handle despite offensive strengths Kyle Harvey kharvey@liberty.edu
The Lady Flames volleyball team continued their non-league schedule Wednesday afternoon, taking on the 16th ranked University of Oregon Ducks in Liberty’s first game against a nationally ranked opponent in three years. Liberty succumbed to the Pac-12 school, losing a three set battle 25-9, 25-21, 25-17. Despite the final score, Coach Pinder was able to take many moral victories from
the game. “I was looking to see our team’s poise, how to learn to play for points against a team like Oregon,” Coach Pinder said. After the first set, losing 25-9, I was proud in how our players showed resolve. They battled and made those last two sets very competitive, with respectable scores at the end.” Besides posting 38 points in the final two games, several individuals had impressive outings against Oregon. Loren Thomas, a 6-foot-3 inch junior, posted five blocks
as Liberty out-blocked Oregon overall, registering seven blocks to Oregon’s two. Senior defensive specialist Kelly Haseman tied for a match-high 11 digs, keeping her on pace to break Liberty’s career dig record sometime mid-season. On offense, sophomore outside hitter Lillie Happel followed up her strong tournament last week with a match-high 10 kills, her second double digit kill effort in as many matches. “We out-blocked them today, utilizing our size against a very good attack. Our
offense got better throughout the match, which was positive. This was a great experience for our program and for these players,” Pinder said. Besides the experience for the current players, the game against Oregon served a greater purpose for the future of Liberty’s volleyball program in terms of publicity and name recognition nationwide.
V’BALL Contiuned on B3
sports
n e ve r. s t o p. f i g h t i n g.
TALK
Nate Brown nbrown4@liberty.edu
ruth bibby
| Liberty Champion
KEY COMPONENT — Mike Brown (10) went 22-39 for 279 yards and a touchdown. However, seven turnovers soured the Flames’ chances for a win.
Turnovers Plague Flames In Loss Miscues and turnovers played a factor in the 43-21 loss to NC State
Nate Brown nbrown4@liberty.edu
F
or Achilles, it was his heel. For Samson, it was Delilah. For Danny Rocco and the Flames Saturday night in Raleigh, it was a deadly rash of turnover-itis that killed drives, momentum and ultimately, the chance for a win. “(We had) way too many mistakes, way too many miscues,” Rocco said afterwards. “ (The seven turnovers were) inexcusable, unacceptable and truly tonight was the difference in the football game. You know I was talking all week about being in the plus (in turnover ratio) and maybe we could win this game and obviously, we were nowhere near being in the
“I’m not going to stand up here and let anyone tell me my kids didn’t fight tonight.” plus tonight. What started as a feature of Liberty’s new hurry-up, mid-range passing attack, degraded into a series of penalties and mistakes that led to the 43-21 Liberty loss. “We showed alot of signs in stretches to be able to move the football and that was very encouraging,” Rocco said. “Most of our drives that were negated, were (us) shooting ourselves in the foot.”
Liberty’s first drive came after forcing an NC State three-and-out. Quarterback Mike Brown threw 5-7 for 44 yards in addition to a 10-yard carry before an ineligible receiver flag made it first-and-15. An incomplete pass, a busted up quarterback keeper up the middle and then a sack killed the drive and forced a punt. And such was the haunting alliteration for the tone of the game. “Penalties hurt us,” Brown said. “I feel like so many drives we just stopped ourselves. We’d get a big play and come back with a penalty. Big play, fumble. Big play, interception. Defense comes out and makes a big play then we (the offense) turns it over.”
FOOTBALL continued on B2
Colossal nose-tackle Asa Chapman was not on the team bus when the Flames pulled out of Lynchburg headed for Raleigh, N.C. The news broke Tuesday morning that Chapman was reportedly arrested Friday, Aug. 26 on a misdemeanor marijuana charge and a felony cocaine charge. Consequently, Chapman was suspended indefinitely from the BROWN Flames football program. Chapman has a Sept. 12 arraignment hearing. In addition to drug charges and unpaid traffic tickets, a contempt of court charge will be discussed. Flames head football coach Danny Rocco explained that while Chapman has no further participation with the football program, Liberty is reaching out to help. “There are things in place already with Asa,” Rocco said. “Asa has gained a lawyer, has been involved with some counseling, has been involved in some education and I think we have put together a really good plan for Asa.” Rocco also said Chapman is participating in community service. Apart from legal counseling, Chapman is also seeking direction from Dr. Ed Gomes, the team’s head chaplain as he navigates this part of his life. However, Rocco stressed that Chapman is not participating in any football activities. Not casting a stone “A lot of people find themselves in this situation and it may define that part of their life, but it doesn’t define who they are,” Rocco said.
BROWN continued on B3
Men’s Hockey sets eyes on the prize Kyle TerMarsch ktermarsch@liberty.edu
After an eight month layover, it’s back. The hits. The Plexiglas. The clutch goals and the nail biting victories. The wait is over as Division I men’s hockey returns to Liberty Mountain for the fall 2011 season. Head coach Kirk Handy expressed how excited
he is about the upcoming season despite this year’s schedule being one of the toughest they’ve had in a long time. The hockey team will face the defending national champion, Davenport University, twice in Michigan in early October before hosting them at home in mid-January. Other difficult teams
on the Flames schedule include the University of Delaware, Adrian College and the Nittany Lions of Penn State. Despite the plethora of notoriously good squads this year, Coach Handy has faith in his team. “It’s a good challenge and a good opportunity for the guys to play consistently at a high level, game in and game out,”
Handy said. Handy also admitted that it was hard losing a great class of seniors, but his expectations remain high thanks to new recruits filling the ranks. “We actually have 12 new players on our team,” Handy said, “which is over 50
HOCKEY continued on B3
ruth bibby
| Liberty Champion
IN PURSUIT — Andrew McCombe (9) races to the puck. McCombe and the The Flames D1 men’s hockey team have their sights set on a national championship.
SPORTS
B2/Liberty Champion
Making History
September 6, 2011
MLS Uprising How soccer is becoming America’s biggest athletic event Drew Gula jagula@liberty.edu
Photo Credit | Liberty Champion
RELENTLESS — In their first ever field hockey game Liberty gives Radford all they can handle. Although it was close throughout Liberty fell 3-1.
This year has been a rough one for professional sports in America. With lockouts tripping up the NFL and NBA, and performance-enhancing drugs plaguing MLB, it’s no surprise that feelings have begun to sour toward these sports. But they face a greater threat than unhappy player unions and unappealing characters. The biggest issue for most American sports is the dropping attendance numbers and the shift in popularity among the top sports that comes as a direct result. E S P N keeps statistics of the average game attendance throughout a league’s season. The top three sports— as of their 2010-11 seasons—are as follows: the NFL with 67,508 fans per game, MLB with 30,270 and MLS with 18,452. Surprised? You really shouldn’t be. Not only are the NBA and NHL struggling to maintain a steady attendance, but they’ve actually begun losing their fanbases, according to ESPN’s numbers. And, whether you like it or not, a big factor in this paradigm shift is the steadily growing MLS. Major League Soccer was, at its inception, a ten-team league that played exclusively in the U.S. But while the league was founded in 1993, it only began to truly explode in 2004. Realizing the potential to attract a much larger and more diverse audience than other sports, the league has since expanded to 18 teams scattered throughout the U.S. and Canada. And with a global fanbase, it’s no surprise that soccer’s ascent in North America has only just begun. “There are several reasons why MLS continues to grow,” Greg Lalas, editor in chief of MLSsoccer.com said.
“During last year’s World Cup, America embraced both the game and the U.S. team. Since then, we’ve gained a lot of support from the major broadcast networks, which means more games on TV than ever before. There has definitely been a growing interest in the game, and we’ve been able to take advantage of that attention.” With several seasons under his belt as a MLS player, as well as experience working for the league, Lalas has a firm grasp on what steps need to be taken to secure the future of the league and promote its expansion. And he is confident that MLS growth will continue for years to come. “Our focus isn’t necessarily to draw in new fans, but rather to turn soccer fans into MLS fans. Doing that is all about finding a balance. Focusing on expanding the youth academies ties into everything. It builds player interest, giving the league a ‘home-grown’ feel. Beyond that, America has become much more ingrained with the international soccer world. Bringing in players like Beckham, Henry and Robbie Keane proves that MLS is competitive on the highest level. And that’s really our biggest goal: molding American soccer into something that fits us but can also compete with the best in the world,” Lalas said. MLS takes the most popular sport in the world and drops it into our backyard, giving us the chance to make the sport our own. Even with American-created sports like football, the impact of the fanbase on the league and players is fairly nonexistent—which may very well be why more fans are turning from other sports and moving toward soccer and MLS. GULA is an editorial writer.
Ruth Bibby | Liberty Champion
TOO LITTLE, TOO LATE — Mike Brown (10) and Pat Kelly (9) connected plenty against NC State, however the Flames fell short late. FOOTBALL continued from B1 Two plays after a 21-yard toss to a blazing Ervin Garner, Liberty fumbled the ball on NC State’s 41-yard line. Immediately after, Illinois transfer Walt Aikens blasted State’s 6’7” quarterback Mike Glennon knocking the ball loose. Defensive lineman Francis Bah scooped it up and trotted into the endzone putting Liberty up 7-3. Flags, an interception, a fumble and a punt that Wolfpack returner T.J. Graham ran back to the endzone sullied Liberty’s next possessions. Another interception by Brown led to a State touchdown before the end of the half.
“(It was) bad decisions, trying to force too many balls. I didn’t protect the ball when I was running, didn’t protect the ball in the pocket. Needing some ‘Mo’ After the first half of excelling passing negated by silly errors, Liberty was still in the game with State, trailing only 16-7. NC State ran the score to 23-7 before Liberty finally caught a break. Brown broke loose down the right sideline for 25 yards. An NC State defender came in and hit him out of bounds, tacking 15 yards on to the play, setting up a 27-yard loft to Chris Summers, making the score 23-15.
Liberty was fighting. Matt Bevins hit a 50-yard field goal as well as a 38-yarder while the defense held Glennon in check. Just inside the fourth quarter, Liberty was down only nine, 30-21. Nailing the Coffin The turnover rash and penalty sale continued to plague Liberty when it mattered most. After winning a challenge that gave Liberty possession of an NC State fumble, Brown coughed it up on the next play. The ‘Pack turned it into a touchdown. Liberty drove again, only to throw an interception that once again resulted in a Wolfpack score.
The Flames foot in the door was slammed shut. “Defensively, we can always criticize how it ended, but sometimes it’s a product of play count, Rocco said. “My kids fought. I’m not going to stand up here and let anyone tell me my kids didn’t fight tonight. My kids fought hard tonight. We sacked their quarterback, we made plays on the ball and the defense played hard tonight. I think it’s a very positive impression of what we could do in the FCS portion of our schedule.
BROWN is the sports editor.
SPORTS
September 6, 2011
Liberty Champion/B3
Need Help With Your Team? Here is advice for week one to start your season right Andrew Woolfolk
alwoolfok@liberty.edu
As week one of the NFL season approaches, fantasy owners everywhere are undoubtedly slaving over what players to start, fretting over the most insignificant reports of injuries to players on their team and analyzing every game log of every player in the league. But, as we enter the threshold of the 2011 season, remember one thing — fantasy football is just that, fantasy. Take time to enjoy the chaotic drafts, the trash talking among your fellow competitors and the nights of prayer you spend hoping your starting lineup is in the correct shape. Fantasy football is a great pastime, but don’t lose your appreciation for the game of football itself. Having your fantasy team’s starting running back rush for three touchdowns is great, but nothing beats having your favorite team pull off a win. Start ‘Em Quarterback – Matt Schaub – The Colts defense has been mediocre in the preseason, and Schaub is working with a healthy Owen Daniels and the game’s best receiver, Andre Johnson. Wide Receiver – Larry Fitzgerald – He went for nine catches and 125 yards last year against the Panthers, and that was with journeyman John
CHAPMAN continued from B1 At 385 pounds, Chapman is hard to miss on the field. Plus, a warm and easy personality, he’s hard to dislike off the field. Chapman made a mistake. Rocco, Chapman nor anyone else deny that. Actions have consequences. “I wanted it to be known that (this) conduct is detrimental to my football team,” Rocco said. “But now, we are making sure support is in place so that he can move forward.” It can be too easy to label someone as “fallen,” and exile them from a Christian bubble like Liberty.
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“If you have a feeling one of your backups could have a good game, go for it.” Skelton at the helm of the offense. Expect Kolb to be looking Fitzgerald’s way all day. Running Back – Knowshon Moreno – The Denver back goes up against a porous Raider line that was 29th in run defense last year. Without the departed Nnamdi Asomugha, they’ll have to drop even more men into coverage, allowing for bigger running holes. Moreno could be a solid backup running back. Tight End – Benjamin Watson – Start the Browns tight end for two reasons. One, he’s
the team’s most reliable receiving threat right now, and two, he’s going against the Bengals. Enough said. Defense – Baltimore – It’s doubtful that either team in this game will reach over 20 points. The reason the Ravens get the edge is simply because the game is in Baltimore. Kicker – Alex Henery – The Dream Team’s kicker should get a good amount of scoring opportunites against the Rams, and St. Louis’ artificial turf is always helpful for kickers.
Chapman is more visible than the typical person, given his role on the football team, his stature and subtle popularity. But instead of taking the opportunity to use Chapman as an example, this can be an opportunity to go the extra mile most universities wouldn’t. Chapman, afterall, isn’t the only student that has faced discipline from the Student Care Office. “Maybe God can do something miraculous here in his life and in the lives of other people,” Rocco said. BROWN is the sports editor .
Sit ‘Em Quarterback – Ben Roethlisberger – While Big Ben has looked sharp in the preseason, the NFL’s premier matchup between the Steelers and Ravens is consistently a defensive battle with not much scoring in between. Wide Receiver – Jeremy Maclin – While coach Andy Reid says Maclin will most likely start in the opener against St. Louis, it wouldn’t be a shock if Maclin is still a tad rusty. Running Back – Chris Johnson – Even though Johnson has finally signed his contract with the Titans, it’s safe to say the running back, who has missed all the teams practices so far, hasn’t spent his summer of freedom running practice drills in his backyard. Tight End – Dallas Clark – Quarterback Peyton Manning looks doubtful to start in the opener because of his neck surgery, and you can bet the Texans will be looking to show their credentials to win the AFC South this year. Defense – New Orleans – The Saints open the season Sept. 8th versus the defending Super Bowl champs Green Bay. While the Saints boast a solid defense, the season opener will probably be a highscoring affair. Kicker – Lawrence Tynes – Tynes missed most of the preseason with a leg injury, so chances are he’ll be rusty in week one. WOOFOLK is a sports reporter.
HOCKEY continued from B1 percent of our roster and, on top of that, we have two players who didn’t play last year, so really we have like 14 new players, which is exciting for us in the coaching staff, having a good group of guys we can mold and look to take our program to the next level.” Co-captain Andrew McCullen echoed what Coach Handy had to say and spoke very highly of the newcomers talent saying, “it’s not much of a learning curve for them.” Many expect to see the Liberty Flames excel this year on the ice, including Liberty’s point leader from last season, forward Brent Boschman, who hopes all the hard work will pay off. “We have a lot of new guys, but we have some really good players this year and we realize that we do have a lot of potential. We can really make some noise this year, so (we’re) definitely working that much harder to really come together and put a better product out onto the ice this year.” The Liberty Men’s Division I Hockey team will take to the ice starting with their long-established Blue and White game on Friday, Sept. 9 at 7:30 p.m., and will begin its regular season the following Sunday, Sept. 16 by hosting the Atlanta Jr. Knights at 7:30 p.m. TERMARSCH is a sports reporter.
Sneak Peek • • • • •
Sept. 9 — Blue vs. White scrimmage, 7:30 pm. Sept. 16 — Atlanta Jr. Flames at Liberty, 7:30 pm. Sept. 17 — Atlanta Jr. Flames at Liberty, 4 pm. Sept. 23 — Liberty at Oakland, 8:30 pm. Sept. 24— Liberty at Oakland, 8:30 pm.
Full Schedule www.liberty.edu/campusrec/clups ports/indexcfm?PID=16880
V’BALL continued from B1 “We want recruits to know that we play some of the top teams in the nation and ultimately, that the vision is to win one of these matches one day,” Pinder said. “I see it out on the horizon that we not only go in there and compete, which I think we are right now — we’re playing great — we’re just not able to close them, but I see a day out there if God doesn’t come back that we start winning these games,” Pinder said. The match took place in Washington, D.C., and was
Les Schofer | Liberty Sports
STIFF COMPETITION — The Lady Flames are a talented bunch but have faced tough opponents as of late. hosted by American University. Liberty will play Rider University Sept. 9 in Lynchburg.
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HARVEY is a sports reporter.
FEATURE
B4/Liberty Champion
September 6, 2011
SA’s Jazz night event: success Trio brings calming effect Desiree Wheeler dwheeler4@liberty.edu
As smooth jazz glided through the courtyard Wednesday, Aug. 31, DeMoss was transformed into a musical oasis. The stylistic performance of the Bob Peckman Trio allowed students to soak in the soothing, soulful tunes. The Bob Peckman Trio has been gracing Liberty’s stage since 2006 and has continued to return due to their positive relationship with the Liberty campus. Associate Director of Student Activities, Alese Chandler, stated “(Jazz Night) has had different musicians over the years, but the Bob Peckman Trio is by far our deepest connection and perhaps our favorite.” The evening took place by the fountain in the DeMoss courtyard where the stage was dimly lit, creating a relaxed and calming atmosphere. Students sat and listened, the view of smiles and nodding of heads in time with the music evident among the 200 plus crowd. The concession stand was also a big hit, where a variety of pastries and tea were sold. Student Activities member Meredith Smith, a junior in Liberty’s Communication Department, helped with the concession stand and the Jazz night event. “We had a great turnout. It was a really relaxing atmosphere, and people loved the concession stand,” Smith said. The students sat whispering among
Bekah Lohr| Liberty Champion
ENJOYING THE VIBES — Students gathered under the night sky to enjoy the sounds of the Bob Peckman Trio.
“I love jazz music, it calms my nerves and jazz night always has an enjoyable atmosphere” each other throughout the night, some doing homework, others casually talking and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere that Bob Peckman’s jazz music created. Ashley Watts, a graduate student at Liberty, has attended the Student Activities hosted Jazz Night since 2005. “I love jazz music, it calms my nerves and (Jazz Night) always has an enjoyable atmosphere which also makes it a great place to do homework,” Watts said. The Bob Peckman Trio has made numerous appearances at Liberty
LibertyHello! offers new ways for learning languages Hola! and communications. Vasioutovitch believes that if people are interested in culture, then these courses are a Communication is universal and great opportunity for students to get learning a new language has become better aquainted with the language. more popular as time has progressed. Although learning another lanPrivet, guten tag and namaste all guage is often used to enhance one’s mean hello and will be one of the resume, there are some individuals many words that one will hear when that would love to take another lanNomoshkar! taking conversational language cours- guage for the sake of learning someHoi!new. Freshmen Suphitporn es. thing Outside of Liberty’s academics, the Tangsirisatian said that although university also offers courses that will Chinese is a very difficult language help “develop and enrich an individ- to learn, it is still beautiful when you ual’s needs.” The Center for speak it and write it. Professional and “I would take Chinese because it is Continuing becoming the second most used lanEducation guage in the world. I programs can reach out (CPCE) to so many has nonmore peocredit ple this language w a y, ” courses at Ta n g different siristin times said. during Senior the seMichele mester and Clayis open to ton anyone h a s who is inbeen on misterested in sion trips to receiving Europe and exthe founpresses her dedation of sire to go and another language. serve in that Nomoshkar! Hoi! CPCE language area. “I am pascourses include sionate to learn RusRussian, Chinese, sian because I feel a deGerman, Hesire to spend time in the brew, Hindi, Spanish and English as European area. I also believe that it is a second language. smart to offer these types of courses Russian Instructor Pavel Vasiouto- because it helps prepare a person vitch began teaching Russian to class without the pressures of the academsizes of four in the spring semester ic side and it can be more enjoyable, of 2011. After listening to comments ” Clayton said. Clayton also said that from former students on how to im- she would love for them to add anprove the course, this semester he is other language, such as Swedish. focusing more on vocabulary and CPCE offers these courses throughteaching his students how to read. out the semester. For more informa“If you know how to read the tion, contact CASAS at (434) 582word you can reproduce it,” Vasiou- 2297 or email CPCE at cpce@liberty. tovitch said. edu. Students take a particular interest in his course because of their desire HOOD is a feature writer. to possess a skill set when entering into the field of international business Adrienna Hood
alhood@liberty.edu
Selamat!
Szia!
in the last few years and is based in Roanoke. The talented trio has Dave Morgan on lead vocals, Alan Watson on the Piano and Bob Peckman on the drums. They played various classics throughout the night, including renditions of Frank Sinatra and Miles Davis songs. They also allowed audience requests, which helped to keep the students involved in the concert. “Bob and his band will always say how great it is to see young people enjoying jazz. To them, it’s a dying genre so to come to a college where kids are intently enjoying the vibes and trum-
PAWS AND PURRS continued from B8
“The fund was actually Rachael’s idea,” Proffitt explained. “About a week before she died, she wanted a small amount of her paycheck withheld each week to begin the fund. After she tragically lost her life, Gentle Care Animal Hospital started the fund in her honor... to make her dream come true.” As part of the fundraising, Proffitt organized a 5k and 10k race called “Rachael’s Paws & Purrs,” which was held at 7 a.m. Sept. 5, 2011. The race began and ended in Amazement Square and had over 180 participants, nearly three times RHCCF’s original goal of 50 participants. Proceeds from the race were dedicated to the fund and more awareness of the cause is still spreading. “Long term, hopefully, the fund can
pet sounds… as they say, ‘they dig it’,” Chandler said. The event was a definite success. By the end of the evening, the courtyard hosted hundreds of students who were able to see the Bob Peckman Trio at their finest. “(Jazz Night) is a joy to put on, but the weather always adds a tricky element. We lucked out this time… perfect clear skies, what more could we ask for,” Chandler said. Student Activities hosts a variety of engaging events throughout the school year. For more information about upcoming events, refer to the Student Activities page on Liberty’s website. Or email Student Activities at studentactivitiesinfo@liberty.edu or call 592-3061. WHEELER is a feature writer.
“We are all committed to... ensure that Rachael’s dream continues to be a reality” become even larger to include participation in other states, and maybe one day it will be nationwide,” Proffit said. “We are all committed to the long-term success of the RHCCF to ensure that Rachael’s dream continues to become a reality.” To learn more about the Rachael Horton Compassionate Care Fund, or how you can get involved, visit www.rhccf.org. ROWELL is a news writer.
Hello!
Hola!
Selamat!
Szia!
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HONORING RACHAEL— Rachael Horton’s love for animals is the inspiration for the “Rachael’s Paws & Purrs” 5k and 10k race, held downtown, Sept. 5.
Have a story you want to share? Call the Liberty Champion office at (434) 582-2124 Want to know more? Check out the Champion website at www.libertychampion.com
FEATURE
September 6, 2011
Liberty Champion/B5
Spc. Ryan Campbell: On patrol in Afghanistan Omar Adams oadams@liberty.edu
While most students were enjoying the summer off, a select few were 7,000 miles away from home in the service of their country. Staunton, Va. native Spc. Ryan Campbell deployed to Afghanistan on Jan. 6 with his unit, Bravo Company 1-26, 3rd Brigade, 1st Infantry Division. Campbell said it is tough to describe an overseas deployment. “The best word that describes deploying is stressful — at least it is to anyone who has deployed to an active war zone,” he said. “We live in a decent area, we aren’t hit all that heavily, but we still get hit.” To Campbell, the worst part about the unit’s deployment is that, while they are periodically shot at, the enemy is practically invisible. Taliban soldiers have learned not to directly engage U.S. soldiers, so they generally resort to firing mortar shells or planting improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in the roads. “Sometimes they will engage with small arms fire, but they have learned when they do that it turns out badly for them,” Campbell said. “They take a few shots at us, we return with grenades, .50 cals, medium and small arms fire. So they have pretty much stopped all of that.” Two weeks before Liberty students would have been returning to campus back in the U.S., Bravo Company embarked on a three or four day mission with two main goals: soften relations with villages to the west where most
Photo provided
STUDENT IN COMBAT — Spc. Ryan Campbell attended Liberty’s Fall 2007 semester before joining the Army. He intends to return, finish his degree and become a youth pastor. His fiancée Ashley Noonan graduated Liberty in 2010.
of the mortar fire usually came from, and search houses reported to hold weapons caches. The company took a different route than usual, after having recently hit an IED, but the enemy “got lucky.” As the soldiers were returning to their vehicles, they crossed a “wadi” (dry streambed) and walked into an IED explosion. “After we had crossed over the wadi, I remember starting to walk around a bend and seeing, rather than hearing, the explosion,” Campbell said. “First (I saw) just a big cloud of dust enveloping our lead guy and him just being
blown to the side and falling over.” To Campbell, the whole event happened in slow motion, and his memory is “a little fuzzy” after receiving a concussion in the blast. “What happened afterwards, I can remember bits and pieces: pulling security while the medevac helos came in, walking back to the village to search a house that had a clear view of the blast area, going to the trucks and then coming back to base later that night,” he said. In all, seven soldiers were wounded in the attack. One man is recovering in Fort Knox following surgery to re-
pair his left hand, and two others had shrapnel in their faces and legs. Campbell and three others were treated for mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) and released back to active duty. “The biggest thing that Liberty students or anyone who reads (this) article can do is pray for the safety of the soldiers overseas,” Campbell said. “…I know that is why, at least for me, why I haven’t been seriously injured — God is looking out for me.” Bravo Company is scheduled to return home by mid-December, and Campbell will marry his fiancée Ashley Noonan soon afterward. He said care packages might not make it before the company pulls out, but for those who want to help, Campbell suggested the Wounded Warrior Project. He also offered to ask whether the TBI center where he was treated needed any help. Student veterans are encouraged to check out Military Affairs at Liberty, as well as the Student Veterans Group. Students Behind Our Soldiers and Silent Ranks with a Vision also exist to support veterans and their families, respectively. For more on what it is like to go on a patrol in Afghanistan, Campbell recommended longwarjournal.org. — an article on Aug. 19, “US troops weather rockets, recoilless rifles and grenades in Sabari,” described a recent Bravo Company mission “gone bad.” ADAMS is the web editor.
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FEATURE
B6/Liberty Champion
September 6, 2011
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Nose knows: The power of smell
How mixing smelling and studying can help your grade Betsy Abraham babraham3@liberty.edu
Some people study with flashcards, while others prefer to study by reading their notes aloud. Study groups are popular on college campuses and a lot of people seek the help of tutors. Many students are hands on, and learn by doing an activity or experiencing what the textbook is attempting to explain. Visual, auditory and kinesthetic learners all have different methods, but people often neglect another very important and helpful sense that is available to them—smell. George Cox, a director of the National Association of Holistic Aromatherapy and professor of aromatherapy at Cincinnati State, strongly believes in the power of smell — not only to heal, but also as a memory tool. “Our sense of smell is very powerful,” Cox said. “Your sense of smell is very powerfully associated with memory. If it’s something you like, you have a positive response. If it’s an unpleasant memory, you’ll have a negative response.” Because the olfactory region, the part of the brain that detects smells, also governs an individual’s emotions, a person’s mood and sense of smell are linked instantaneously. Each individual ties different smells
to different people, places or events. For example, many tie the smell of peppermint to Christmas time, or some may think of their grandma’s house when smelling baked goods. Strong smells provoke strong memories and emotions. A c cording to the Sense of Smell Institute, an organization that seeks to call attention to the importance of smell in everyday life, people recall smells with higher accuracy after a year than they will recall photos after only three months. “Our odor m e m o r i e s frequently have strong emotional qualities and are associated with the good or bad experiences in which they occurred. Therefore, we often find that
we can immediately recognize and respond to smells from childhood. Very often, we cannot put a name to these odors, yet they have a strong emotive association,” the Sense of Smell website stated. Cox points out a recent research study that was done by advanced physiology students at a graduate school in which two groups were given a test. One group was given drops of rosemary and lemon to inhale while they were studying, while the other group was given nothing. According to Cox, the grades o f the group who smelled the rosemary and lemon went up seven percent. “ T h a t ’s almost a letter grade. That’s not too bad for just inhaling something when you’re taking a test,” Cox said. Lemon, rosemary and peppermint are all smells
that can help enhance concentration. The scents help refresh the mind and boost energy. Rosemary has also been shown to help clear the mind. According to an article by ABC news, the smell of basil can also help improve concentration and memory. Citrusy scents, such as lemon and orange, can help eliminate anxiety and increase concentration. Taking a whiff of cinnamon is a powerful and simple way to enhance multiple brain functions, including visual-motor speed, recognition and focus. In addition, this household spice can help calm, as well as fight, fatigue. While going to the local grocery store and picking up some lemons, basil and cinnamon to help keep focused during the next big study session is a good idea, those seriously wanting to tap into the power of scents should consider buying essential oils. According to Cox, any fragrance in its essential oil version is much more effective and potent. Stores such as 21 Drops and Sabon offer exclusive lines of essential and aromatic oils, including vanilla, lavender and special blends that promise to invigorate and de-stress. ABRAHAM is the asst. feature editor.
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SEPT. 9 Get Downtown
SEPT. 23, 24 Virginia 10 Miler
Main Street will once again be shut down as the city hosts its 3rd annual Get Downtown festival. The evening will feature some of Lynchburg’s best stores, restaurants, retailers and cultural organizations, as well as street musicians, stilt walkers and other amusements. This event is free. Visit www.downtownlynchburg. com or call 528-3950 for more details.
The 38th annual Virginia 10 Miler offers both experienced and new runners the chance to participate in a 10 mile run, four mile run or four mile walk. Check out virginiatenmiler.com for more details and to register.
SEPT. 10 Outdoor Adventure Trip Student Activities is hosting a trip to the Master’s Inn. For $5, students will get the chance to enjoy the ropes courses, a zip line and a bonfire. Limited spots are available and to sign up, contact the Student Activities office at 592-3061 or studentactivitiesinfo@liberty.edu.
SEPT. 10 Home Football Game The first home football game of the season will be held in Williams Stadium against Robert Morris. For more information and the full schedule, go to libertyflames.com
CALL T$O80 AY THIS wD eek! !
SEPT. 23 Anberlin Anberlin will be playing a free concert at the Vines Center. Students can get their tickets at the Vines Center Box Office with their Liberty ID.
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SEPT. 24 Washington, D.C. Day Trip Student Activities will be taking a group of students to the nation’s capital for a full day of exploring and fun. Call 592-3061 for more information.
SEPT. 30 Sounds of Hope Tour
Ruth Bibby| Liberty Champion
SEPT. 17 37th Annual Lynchburg Art Festival This free event will showcase over 140 local and national artists, as well as raise money for the Lynchburg Art Club Scholarship.
Student Activities is bringing Leeland and Building 429 to TRBC. Tickets are $7 in advance for Liberty students and $12 at the door. For more information, contact Student Activities at studentactivitiesinfo@ liberty.edu or 592-3061.
OCT. 15 Homecoming
FEATURE
September 6, 2011
Liberty Champion/B7
with 2-year wireless svc agreement on voice and minimum $15/mo data plan required.
with 2-year wireless svc agreement on voice and minimum $15/mo data plan required.
Purchase of Unlimited Messaging plan required. Available with select plans. International long distance calls and International roaming calls not included. Calls to directory assistance, voicemail, pay-per-use, call routing, and forwarding numbers not included. Other restrictions and conditions apply. See att.com/anymobile or store for details. Monthly discount: Service discount applies only to the monthly service charge of qualified plans and not to any other charges. Available only to qualified students and employees of colleges/universities with a qualified business agreement. Other service discount qualification requirements may apply. Restrictions, other terms, and conditions apply. See store for details. Limited-time offer. Subject to wireless customer agrmt. Credit approval req’d. Activ. fee $36/line. Coverage & svcs, including mobile broadband, not avail. everywhere. Geographic, usage & other conditions & restrictions (that may result in svc. termination) apply. Taxes & other chrgs apply. Prices & equip. vary by mkt & may not be avail. from ind. retailers. See store or visit att.com for details and coverage map. Early Termination Fee (ETF): None if cancelled during first 30 days, but a $35 restocking fee may apply; after 30 days, ETF up to $325, depending on device (details att.com/equipmentETF). Subject to change. Agents may impose add’l fees. Regulatory Cost Recovery Charge up to $1.25/mo. is chrg’d to help defray costs of complying with gov’t obligations & chrgs on AT&T & is not a tax or gov’t req’d chrg. Offer Details: HTC Status price with 2-year wireless svc agreement on voice & minimum $15/mo. data plan required is $49.99. HTC Inspire 4G price with 2-year wireless svc agreement on voice & minimum $15/mo. data plan required is $99.99. Sales tax calculated based on price of unactivated equipment. Smartphone Data Plan Requirement: Min. $15/mo. DataPlus (200MB) plan required; $15 automatically chrg’d for each additional 200MB provided if initial 200MB is exceeded. All data, including overages, must be used in the billing period in which it is provided or be forfeited. For more details on data plans, go to att.com/dataplans. Screen images simulated. Facebook is a trademark of Facebook, Inc. ©2011 HTC Corp., Inc. All rights reserved. The HTC logo, HTC Inspire 4G, HTC Status, and any other trademarks used herein are trademarks owned by HTC Corporation and used under license. ©2011 AT&T Intellectual Property. Service provided by AT&T Mobility. All rights reserved. AT&T and the AT&T logo are trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property. All other marks contained herein are the property of their respective owners.
ATM VIR 000055509 (Full PG [9.889"] x 19.25" 4 Color) Liberty University Liberty Champion JOB #No Job Number NER BTS HTC
8/12/2011 9:54:44 AM
FEATURE
SEPTEMBER 6, 2011
Book release a hit with students
Ruth Bibby | Liberty Champion
HONESTLY — Campus pastor Johnnie Moore took time to meet students at his pre-release book party and sign copies of his first book. Emily Davis eldavis3@liberty.edu
The Liberty University bookstore was flooded with eager readers Sunday night, Aug. 28, lining up to buy an early copy of the first book written by campus pastor Johnnie Moore. The bookstore sponsored a “Pre-release” party for Moore, promoting the book and giving students the opportunity to purchase it four days before its nationwide release. “I actually left church early so I could get here. I’m super excited for the book,” sophomore Cody Snapp said. “I’ve been following it on Twitter, every update.” Over 100 students stood in line and patiently waited for Moore to autograph their copy of “Honestly.” Students also received the chance to socialize with the Campus Praise Band
and several campus pastors, as well as enjoying music by Justin Kintzel, door prizes and munching on chicken wraps and Domino’s pizza. “The book sounds really cool,” sophomore Sarah Parker said. “It’s interesting to see from someone else’s perspective what it really means to live honestly…and just to see what he as a campus pastor here at Liberty has to say about it.” Halfway through the evening, Moore got up to talk to the crowd and was cheered on by all of his supporters. He read excerpts from the book and explained his reasoning behind it, as well as his vision for the book now. “I would say this book answers the questions you have that you don’t know how to ask,” Moore said. “The tone of the book is the title. It’s honest. It’s an honest, authentic look at Christianity — the good and the bad,
particularly with hypocrisy.” Moore talked about one of the goals he has for anyone who reads “Honestly,” which also happens to be the subtitle of the book, “Really living what we say we believe.” The book began its production almost two years ago, taking eight months to write, before being turned over to the publisher. “The chapters are short, for people who aren’t big readers,” campus pastor Chris Deitsch said. “That’s nice because you can sit down and get through a whole chapter real quick but be truly challenged.” “Honestly” challenges Christians not to live in a state of hypocrisy, and to recognize that if they are, then it is probably because of one of five reasons, which are the five major sections of his book — doubt, spiritual health, perseverance, missions and vision.
DAVIS is a feature writer.
Paws and Purrs race raises hope
Shifting focus to prayer
Jessica Rowell jrowell@liberty.edu
All Night of Prayer gives students sense of unity Betsy Abraham
“Well, it’s kind of my life in the making. It’s a very personal book,” Moore said. “The stuff I share in the book I didn’t really share before writing this book. There was a healing experience for me in writing it.” “Johnnie Moore’s unique approach to Christian culture is kind of refreshing,” Jose Pichardo said. “You aren’t just getting what is expected, but what is needed.” Moore is currently working on his second book, which is due out sometime next year. “Honestly” was released nationwide on Sept. 1 and autographed copies are now available at the Liberty University Bookstore. For more information, visit johnniemoore.org.
Ruth Bibby | Liberty Champion
babraham@liberty.edu
WITH HUMBLED HEARTS — At a leadership service, student leaders prepared for the year ahead and for that evening’s All Night of Prayer event.
On most Friday nights, the DeMoss parking lot is usually empty aside from a handful of skateboarders and ambitious students wondering why the computer lab closes before 2 a.m. on the weekends. However, this past Friday night and Saturday morning, the DeMoss parking lot was home to a more diverse crowd that had gathered on the pavement for one common cause: to pray. Hosted by the Office of Student Leadership, All Night of Prayer is an event that occurs at the beginning of each school year right before Spiritual Emphasis Week. Campus pastor Chris Deitsch was talking and praying with students, and he said he believed that this Liberty tradition is a great way to start the year off. “The All Night of Prayer is an event that distinguishes Liberty as a university whose focus and direction is to God. We kick off our year with thousands of students coming from 11 p.m. to 8 a.m. to pray for their lives, their friends and family and for God to do something on this campus. I think that’s incredible,” Deitsch said. Tealight candles flickered inside white paper bags that lined the sidewalks and the DeMoss parking lot as students came from different parts of campus through all hours of the night. Most came with their residence halls, each of which were assigned a specific time slot to come out and pray. Students were first greeted by
two large white banners, one with Dr. Jerry Falwell Sr.’s famous words, “Nothing of eternal significance ever happens apart from prayer,” painted boldly on them, and the next with 2 Chronicles 7:14 on it. Students then branched off to stop and pray at one of the dozens of stations set up all around the parking lot. Each station focused on a different theme. Students were encouraged to spend time in prayer over people such as Liberty faculty members, the Falwells and missionaries. Other stations focused on personal surrender, confession and thanking God. On each of the DeMoss steps was a name or adjective to describe God, and in the Grand Lobby, musicians such as Devin Coogan led worship. Some students prayed in groups, while others curled up by themselves on the curb or steps of DeMoss. A few sprawled out on the lawn, and large groups also overflowed into the Religion Hall parking lot to pray or sing worship songs. Amanda Rider, an RA on Dorm 33-4, said that the All Night of Prayer helped her start the year by refocusing on what is truly important. “It’s been great, not focusing on myself for a night and knowing that there are thousands of other students praying with me throughout the night and knowing the things in our school are being prayed over,” Rider said. “It’s a great reminder
that there are more things to focus on in life than myself.” Freshman Chloe Friederichsen came to All Night of Prayer with her hall and brother dorm from 1 a.m. to 2 a.m. She said that the event gave her a greater appreciation for the school, as well as a sense of unity. “I thought it was such a memorable moment to look up from praying and know that the rest of the school would be praying all night long,” Friederichsen said. “Everyone would sacrifice time they could be sleeping to spend time with our Lord. I felt so lucky to have the opportunity to come to this school. I felt like a part of something big.” Deitsch said that the fact that students come out all night shows how much students believe in prayer. “It’s easy to show up for a service,” Deitsch said. “But we have residence halls that are slated to show up at 2 a.m. or later, who have to set alarms and wake up and come. I think (that) shows that we’re committed to the power of prayer. We believe that nothing of eternal significance ever happens apart from prayer, not just in what we say but what we show tonight.” ABRAHAM is the asst. feature editor.
When a tragic apartment fire took the lives of Liberty alumni Rachael Horton and her husband, Aaron, on April 8, it seemed that a beautiful future had also died that day. Horton, a bright-eyed and passionate animal lover, had dedicated seven years of her life to the Gentle Care Animal Hospital in Forest and poured her heart into serving the four-legged patients who sought treatment there. But new hope has risen from the ashes of heartbreak as friends, family and coworkers honor her legacy with the Rachael Horton Compassionate Care Fund and its first fundraising event, the Rachael’s Paws and Purrs Race. Friend Teresa Proffitt spent much time at the shelter and knew Horton personally. She has taken it upon herself to organize fundraising for the cause. “Rachael was truly an angel here on earth,” Proffitt said. “My goal when organizing the Rachael’s Paws and Purrs Race was to create a positive, uplifting event to raise money for a great cause. Even more importantly, to celebrate the lives and honor the memories of Rachael, Aaron and the couple’s cat, Oscar.” This nonprofit fund can cover up to 50 percent of the cost of treatment and provides financial support for animals with life-threatening illnesses. Medical care for these cases is often expensive and many owners are forced to forgo the life of their beloved pet due to their inability to pay. While working as an assistant at Gentle Care, Horton witnessed many pet owners reluctantly make this difficult decision. PAWS AND PURRS continued on B4