New softball coach inspires team
Football opens season against Kent State
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Volume 31 • Issue 2
Lynchburg, VA
Towns departs
Blackwater Trails
Greg Leasure gleasure@liberty.edu
Chancellor Jerry Falwell, Jr. made his first Liberty University Convocation appearance of the fall 2013 semester Wednesday, Aug. 28 and announced that Elmer Towns, one of the university’s co-founders, will be taking a sabbatical effective Thursday, Aug. 29, according to a Liberty University News Service story. Falwell said that Towns, 80, will be traveling, spending time with his family and writing books during his sabbatical. Although Towns will no longer teach classes, he will remain part of the university’s leadership, but Falwell left open the possibility of Towns’ return. “He says he is going to come back and teach in future years, but I believe he is going to enjoy his new assignment so much that his sabbatical will become permanent,” Falwell said.
See TOWNS, A2
Counsel files suit Mark Tait
Courtney Russo| Liberty Champion
EXPLORE — Students experience nature at Blackwater Creek. Read more on page B7.
mtait@liberty.edu
“I love being able to work in an office whose goal is to serve the nations for the Lord,” Indyk said. “It’s such a blessing to know that God doesn’t have to use us, but he wants to use us.” According to Sarah Boorom, a senior and graphic designer for the CGE, she was encouraged by the positive turnout at the expo, a reminder to her and the entire staff as to why they do what they do.
Liberty Counsel has filed suit against the state of New Jersey after Governor Chris Christie signed a bill banning licensed therapists from helping minors who want to overcome unwanted same-sex attractions, behavior or identity. Matthew Staver, founder and chairman of Liberty Counsel, said he believes the new law is unconstitutional. “This bill is a significant intrusion on freedom of speech, freedom of religion and parental rights,” Staver said. “It is a breathtakingly broad intrusion into the private lives, rights and freedoms of minors, their parents, and counselors.” The law restricts licensed therapists from providing any counsel to minors designed to help the client change unwanted same-sex behavior or identity even when the client and the parent want such counsel. “The very essence of counseling is that clients have the right of selfdetermination,” Staver said. “They have the right to be able to set their counseling objectives, but this law prevents client from achieving their objectives.” He also noted that New Jersey law permits minors 14 years old or above to consent to any form of psychological or psychiatric therapy and discontinue any counseling without their parents’ consent.
See GLOBAL, A6
See LAWSUIT, A7
Taking It Global CGE hosted an informational meeting Aug. 27 Gabriella Fuller gfuller2@liberty.edu
More than 2,000 students gathered in Thomas Road Baptist Church Aug. 27 as the Center for Global Engagement (CGE) hosted its annual informational meeting, the Take It Global Expo. The event featured the unveiling of the new 2013-2014 global trips and challenged students of all majors to “take your degree global.” Johnnie Moore, Liberty’s vice president for communications, introduced students to the various departments of the CGE and encouraged students to get involved, emphasizing the unique possibilities that Liberty students have to become champions for Christ not only at home, but around the world. “This is the first generation where we can actually reach
the entire world,” Moore said. “Will you go?” Those in attendance were also given a first look at a short film wich was captured over the course of previous trips and developed by the CGE. The documentary, entitled “The World is Open,” highlighted student testimonies from various regions of the world and served as a platform to challenge students to become a part of the difference Liberty is making worldwide. The event concluded by giving students the opportunity to speak with the various staff and team members who will be leading trips throughout Africa, Europe, South America, and Southeast and Central Asia. Devyn Indyk, a junior and campaign assistant at CGE, commented on her experience at the expo. “I talked to one boy who
Gabriella Fuller | Liberty Champion
MISSIONS — Sarah Boorom and Chesed Dent talk to student. was from Tibet and wanted to stop by the East Asia table to see what Liberty was going to be doing in his region of the world,” Indyk said. “We had an awesome conversation about how God has worked in his life ... It was so great to hear his heart and learn about what God is doing around the world.” According to Indyk, reaching every nation is a central theme at the CGE, one that faculty and staff discuss passionately.
INSIDE THE CHAMPION News
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Les Miserables to premiere Sept. 13 B5
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GI gap bridged Tobi Walsh twalsh12@liberty.edu
Liberty University recently signed an agreement with the Yellow Ribbon Program, giving military students and recipients the chance to attend college on a scholarship. The program, which offers scholarships to military personnel who want to earn a college degree, was introduced at Liberty in Fall 2009. “It covers the gap between what a veteran or eligible dependent receives from the GI Bill and what the cost of tuition is,” Stephanie Hughes, senior assistant director for Liberty University’s Office of Military Affairs, said. According to the GI Bill, veterans or eligible dependents receive a cap on how much aid they can receive. Now, after Liberty recently signed a new agreement with the program, eligible recipients have no cap on tuition or expenses. Liberty’s program also does not limit the amount of students who can be part of the program. For students like Joy Teague, that new agreement was a great blessing. “I separated active duty and joined the reserves in 2010 because I had wanted to attend a Christian university as a full-time student,” Teague said. “But the costs of tuition at a private Christian college are above the cap the GI Bill pays.” According to Teague, she joined the Air Force in 2006 after she was inspired by her brother who had already enlisted. “He would brag about all the benefits, traveling and experience,” Teague said. “It sounded so much better than what I was doing at the time.” Teague said that eventually God led her to Liberty where she is a psychology major with a concentration in counseling and human development. “I’m so grateful,” Teague said. “At Liberty, the student slots for the program are unlimited. I didn’t have to pay out of pocket for my tuition costs, and it has been such a blessing.” The Yellow Ribbon Program is not the only military assistance program that Liberty offers. “The Heroes Fund Scholarship is offered to Purple Heart recipients, disabled veterans and spouses of service members killed in action during one of the Gulf Wars,” Hughes said. “We also offer to those who qualify tuition discounts, book voucher credit and technology fee waivers to our online military student and spouse population.” Hughes also explained that there is no application process for the program. A student only has to be eligible based on the standards for the GI Bill. For more information, visit yellowribboneducationdecisions. com. WALSH is a news reporter.
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LEISURE — Towns sits with his wife Ruth, whom he will be spending more time with while on his sabbatical.
TOWNS continued from A1 Towns has filled the role of dean of the Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary and the School of Religion, according to the News Service article, and he has written more than 170 books. “I don’t know of anyone who is more deserving of some time to do the things that he loves away from the classroom than Elmer Towns,” Falwell said. After hearing the announcement Wednesday, sophomore computer science major Jenna Green knew Towns would not be teaching her Theology 101 class. “I wanted to specifically take (Towns),” Green said. “I specifically took the 7:40 (a.m.) class so that I could take him, because I wanted to learn from the co-founder of Liberty, otherwise I wouldn’t have taken the 7:40 class. I’m definitely not a morning person, so it’s a struggle for me.”
I believe he is going to enjoy his new assignment so much that his sabbatical will become permanent. — CHANCELLOR FALWELL
In only her second year on campus, Green has not yet had the time to accumulate the memories of Towns that other students have, but she said that she hopes to meet and talk with him sometime in the future. “He’s just got a lot of history,” Green said. “He’s one of those people who are rich with knowledge or wisdom.” While not in the classroom, Towns will not be far from campus. According to an October 11 article in the Liberty Champion, Towns and his wife, Ruth, moved into their current house atop Liberty Mountain after its completion in August of 2011. Towns has even invited students to his
house for trick-or-treating on Halloween. The university’s co-founder has often been seen around campus at events like Homecoming and concerts and has even made appearances in several Coffeehouse videos made by students. Liberty has also honored Towns in the past by naming the road leading into East Campus near the East Campus Clubhouse Towns Court, and the classroom where Towns teaches many of his classes also bears his name, the Towns Alumni Lecture Hall. LEASURE is the editor in chief.
Four students travel to Asia
Missionaries from Liberty work to represent the School of Business overseas Nathan Skaggs ncskaggs@liberty.edu
The School of Business was well-represented this summer as four of its top students divided into two teams and traveled to Asia for four weeks to assist missionaries in the field by helping to develop and improve their businesses. Daniel Keef, a junior business administration and accounting major, and Kyle Shlarman, an alumnus, said they worked alongside a team of missionaries to develop business plans for two businesses: an English school and an import business. “We weren’t working with businesses that were already there,” Keef said. “We were helping to create new ones.” According to Keef, he and Schlarman visited several English schools to observe the education format as well as to perform a cost analysis to determine how much it would cost to run the institution. Keef said their goal is for American missionaries to be able to take over the businesses within two years. During their five-hour workdays, Keef said they worked in difficult conditions, including 115 degree weather with little air conditioning. Internet connectivity was also an obstacle while working on their business plans. “We had to learn to adapt to any circumstance,” Keef said. According to Keef, while on a boat ride, he realized how dif-
Champion corrections In the last issue we stated the new dorm would be 4 stories. The first one built will actually be 9 stories and the rest will be 8.
ferent the region was from what he was accustomed to. “I’ve never seen anything so dark before,” Keef said. “It really is a spiritually depraved place. This is a country that needs Jesus so much and there are so few people going….Having legitimate platforms is the only legal way (missionaries) can be in the country.” Amanda Ritchie and Jessica Hampton, both seniors in the School of Business, helped missionaries improve their platform by assisting a wholesale oriental furniture store in rewriting its business plan. Ritchie worked on human resources and accounting, while Hampton conducted financial analyses and did accounting for a trade show. “It was just one of those internships where you had to apply everything you’ve learned,” Ritchie said. Their main purpose was to help the missionaries learn how to improve a business and expand in the years to come, according to Ritchie. “It was exciting to go and do the business side of it and still know that I’m using accounting, marketing or (human resources) to impact the world for Christ,” Hampton said. To share Christ’s love, both Ritchie and Hampton mentioned how they set a goal to get one smile from someone wherever they went. If they got a smile, they were successful. This missions effort seeks to
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CULTURE — Ritchie and Hampton enjoyed their time in Asia. provide students, specifically accounting and finance majors, with hands-on experience by applying skills learned in the classroom in a real world environment, according to Alex Agnoletto, graduate assistant to the dean of the School of Business. “I think that (the program) has so much potential to it because it’s very different than anything else offered,” Hampton said. “It’s a very different thing because you’re actually working.” The four students were handpicked by the heads of the School of Business based upon their academic success
and professionalism, according to Agnoletto. He hopes to see this program expand in the number of participants as well as locations throughout the world. Keef said he believes the program has a bright future. “I know a lot of business students who want to do missions, and I don’t think that there’s a better format,” Keef said. The School of Business plans on going live with this program sometime this fall, Agnoletto said. SKAGGS is a news reporter.
1. LIBERTY STUDENTS HELP TO BOOST THE ECONOMY IN LYNCHBURG. 2. THE GOLF TEAM PREPARES FOR ITS SEASON STARTING SEPT. 6. 3. LIBERTY PLANS TO HOLD ITS FIRST DORM OLYMPICS OCT. 12.
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IT’S A MESSAGE THAT ASKS BELIEVERS, ‘ARE YOU DOING WHAT YOU SAY YOU’RE DOING?’ — TERRAN BRUCE
Zaki Gordon Center hosts film festival
The Cinematic Arts School showed four free films that are yet to be released in theaters around the nation Lindsay Benton lbenton8@liberty.edu
Liberty University’s Zaki Gordon Cinematic Arts Center screened four feature films Aug. 29-30 prior to their nationwide release dates. Audience members gathered at Cinemark Movie 10 located on Candler’s Mountain Road for the free viewing of “Seasons of Gray,” “Beyond the Darkness,” “The Redemption of Henry Myers” and “Grace Unplugged.” Terran Bruce, a sophomore in the Liberty University Online program, shared her feelings about “Grace Unplugged.” “It’s a message that asks believers, ‘Are you doing what you say you’re doing?’” Bruce said. “They were tactful about how they portrayed the world.”
According to Doug Miller, associate professor for the Cinematic Arts Zaki Gordon Center, the total festival attendance was estimated to be 150 members Thursday, Aug. 29 and another 250 Friday, Aug. 30. The filmmakers, including founder and owner of DRC Films Danny Carrales, producers Bobby Downes and Christopher Morrow and producer Russ Rice, were open for questions following the premiere. Rice, founder of Coram Deo Studios and producer of “Grace Unplugged” and “No Greater Love,” said he believes the films give audience members a way to start a good conversation that can segue into talking about the gospel. “Hollywood is all about money,” Rice said. “What’s beauti-
ful about it is we get to use their money without compromising our message. And what’s even more exciting to us is the opportunities we’ve had to present the gospel to those people.” Discussion panels took place in the Liberty University School of Law Supreme Courtroom Saturday, Aug. 31, featuring producers, directors, screenwriters and actors from the industry. The discussions were led by Stephan Schultze, executive director of Cinematic Arts, Zaki Gordon Center, and associate professor Scotty Curlee who has acted in “The Potential Inside” and “Out of the Darkness.” One of the speakers, Bobby Downes, president and cofounder of EchoLight Studios, advised aspiring filmmakers to make movies representing causes
that nonprofit organizations want to tell. His past work in “October Baby” supported crisis pregnancy centers. Downes supported his opinion with the passage found in James 2:17 that says “Faith without works is dead.” The Liberty film department is currently partners with EchoLight Studios for the production of “Day 77,” according to Miller. Cinematic arts students and professionals from around the country worked on shooting the film during the spring 2013 semester. “EchoLight has provided the money, and we provided the crew, the facilities and all the professors worked on it in different capacities,” Miller, director of photography for “Day 77,” which is due to release summer
2014, said. Miller reveals the larger message behind his movie. “It’s about a guy who is in a loop, and he can’t get out of the loop,” Miller said. “It’s about forgiveness. It’s about changing how God works in us. It’s in the category of Christian films that is about asking questions. It’s directed at a wider audience so that anyone who watches films will watch it and enjoy it.” According to Curlee, the Zaki Gordon Cinematic Arts Center hopes to make this film festival an annual occurrence. For more information about the Zaki Gordon Cinematic Arts Center, visit liberty.edu/cinematicarts. BENTON is a news reporter.
OPINION
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September 3, 2013
Networking straight into isolation
Social media sites are redesigning the way people communicate, resulting in increased rates of depression Gabriella Fuller gfuller2@liberty.edu
“Loneliness has become the most common ailment of the modern world.” This quote, taken from recently popular social media star Shimi Cohen, is a curious statement to be sure. After all, we are living in the 21st century. Surely, now more than ever before, we are connected, united, sociable. Can loneliness really be a word in our highspeed vocabularies? In his video “The Innovation of Loneliness,” Cohen sets out to prove that technology is responsible for the overwhelming feeling of depression that is increasingly plaguing the Western world. Though social media does indeed have users abuzz in a flurry of surface level interactions, below the surface of increased communication lies a raw nerve which, though painful, needs exposing. “The social networks aren’t just changing what we’re doing, but also who we are,” Cohen said in his video. “Technology appeals to us most when we are most vulnerable. And we are vulnerable.” In a study conducted by
the University of Michigan, new research revealed that Facebook users feel worse about themselves in just two weeks, with time spent browsing the social medium acting as a direct correlation to individuals’ darkening moods. Ethan Kross, a social psychologist, was the lead author of the study. “We were able to show on a moment-to-moment basis throughout the day how people’s mood fluctuated depending on their Facebook usage,” Kross said. “The more you used Facebook, the more your mood dropped.” Sound counterintuitive for a social site? Perhaps. But as Cohen would contest, an evergrowing number of friends inevitably results in a loss of distinction between quantity and quality. The deep meaning of intimacy and friendship has become nothing more than abbreviated chat conversations and photo exchanges. The result? We have sacrificed conversation for connection. We are expecting more from technology and less from each other, creating a paradoxical situation in which we claim to have abundant friends while actually feeling lonely.
If this sounds familiar, you may be one of the millions who, perhaps unintentionally, have fallen into the world of what Cohen labels in his video as “endless personal promotion.” “Instead of building true friendships, we’re obsessed with endless personal promotion, investing hours on end building our profile, pursuing the optimal order of words in our next message, choosing the pictures in which we look our best,” Cohen said. “We get to edit, and that means we get to delete.” I told you exposing the raw nerve would be painful. But Cohen is right. Slowly, technology begins to define us, until suddenly, who we are in real time simply cannot keep up with our more desirable, idealistically perfected online images. As a result, the world is becoming filled with savvy profiles and empty people. What a powerful message. A message that, ironically, I viewed on my mobile phone via Twitter. FULLER is the opinion editor.
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(ANTI)SOCIAL MEDIA — Sites that are meant for amusement are leading to loneliness instead.
Players brush off White House invite Tyler Beaston tbeaston@liberty.edu
According to Fox News, three members of the undefeated 1972 Miami Dolphins football team recently turned down an invitation to a ceremony at the White House with President Barack Obama. Jim Langer, Bob Kuechenberg and Manny Fernandez refused to attend the soiree because of the polarity of their political persuasions, according to an article by Ryan Wilson of CBSSports.com. Although the men certainly made a statement by ditching the ceremony, I question their motives. If they avoided the meeting simply because their political views differ, they made a mistake. Nonparticipation is only a minimally effective means of expressing disagreement. It says what is wrong, but offers no guid-
ance as to what is right. The players had a unique opportunity to speak to the president in a personal way and politely relay their thoughts. Chances are, the dissenting members would not influence Obama’s decisions, but at least they would have advocated something. Even so, the occasion was not the kind meant for political discussion. According to the Washington Post, Obama’s invitation was meant to commemorate the team’s accomplishments. The president had no obligation to celebrate their bygone success, yet he graciously opened his home to them. The refusing members essentially left themselves open to accusations of being rude, which they deservedly received. Furthermore, as guests of honor, the men failed to show up
by Greg Leasure Former Liberty Convocation speaker Tim Tebow joined the 7.6 percent of Americans without a job Saturday, Aug. 31 when the New England Patriots cut him from their roster. As the choruses of NFL fans calling for Tebow’s retirement grows louder, the league’s most polarizing quarterback still holds out hope LEASURE for another job.
for their own party, citing politics as the reason for their absence. The word “hardheaded” comes to mind. All in all, the players’ reaction conveys a certain level of immaturity. Apparently, Obama was not upset by the rejection, according to a Huffingtonpost.com interview. This situation is embarrassing to those that would agree with the players’ political platform. Assuming their beliefs are conservative, the response casts other conservatives in a negative light. Being around people Charlie Lyons-Pardue | Creative Commons with differing opinions does COLD SHOULDER — Members of the Miami Dolphins refuse dinner with Obama. not necessitate an agreement with them. Eating An article from nydaily- hearted atmosphere. don’t say anything.’” their food does not equal news.com said players that David Hyde, in his colMaybe it was best Hyde advocating their policies. The highest office in did attend missed their umn for the SunSentinel, stayed behind after all. the U.S. is that of the teammates, but had an quotes Kuechenberg as president. The position enjoyable experience with- saying, “‘I want to be caredemands and deserves out them. Obama joked ful because mom said if BEASTON is an respect, regardless of per- and took pictures with you have nothing good to opinion writer. the team, creating a lightsay about someone, then sonal beliefs.
“I will remain in relentless pursuit of continuing my lifelong dream of being an NFL quarterback,” Tebow vowed via Twitter Sunday afternoon, Sept. 1. Despite his typical Tebow determination, that dream remains on life support while he waits on a phone call for a job that may never come. Like many of my Christian friends who follow football, I admire Tebow’s heart for God and his relentlessness, but unfortunately, not many people admire his passing ability these days. In all honesty, Tim Tebow will probably never start another NFL football game, and making another roster will be an uphill battle. But you know what? The sun will still rise tomorrow. Whether or not you want Tebow under center for your team, he always
makes it clear that his faith sets him apart from the other athletes. His last professional play may come later on, or it may already be behind him. But when the time comes, his exit should be just as unique as his entrance. In a business where the players need the system more than the system needs them, many athletes are left scratching and clawing for another chance at stardom. The list of former athletes falling on hard times is too long to review, and according to Sports Illustrated, it only takes two years after retirement for 78 percent of NFL players to declare bankruptcy or at least endure some form of financial distress. Instead of hanging onto the remnants of his NFL career, Tebow should leave the league on his own terms and
show the millions of people who pay attention to him that there are more important things in life than winning Super Bowls, such as pursuing God. I’m not saying that God does not want Tim Tebow to play football. Tebow has been a magnificent role model for multiple years and a near perfect picture of grace under fire. Having said that, how much better would it be if he walked away with some dignity and sent the message that being a superstar is not a requirement for being used by God? Tebow cannot control what the media or the fans say about him. But whether he spends Sundays this fall on a football field, a sideline or a sofa, the future is still bright.
OPINION
SEPTEMBER 3, 2013
Liberty Champion/A5
Pro sports plagued with scandal
Newly hired Liberty softball coach shines as a positive example in a world of disgraced athletes Emily Brown erbrown@liberty.edu
In an era where the sports world seems to be marred by scandal, it is becoming increasingly difficult to find honorable role models in the field. While there are still athletes like NBA guard Jeremy Lin and MLB player Albert Pujols who are outspoken Christians and good role models, shame seems to be a pervasive theme in sports today. While I will readily admit, as an aspiring journalist, that the media appears to be more interested in stories of scandal, it is true nonetheless that there seems to have been a marked increase in negative sports stories in recent years. If asked, most dedicated sports fans could easily name athletes who have fallen from their position of recognition so quickly to one of disgrace. Take the Aaron Hernandez case, for example. The former New England Patriot seemed to be one of the star tight ends in the NFL, but that was before he was indicted on murder and gunrelated charges. MLB star Alex Rodriguez is facing a suspension of more than a year for his association with performance-enhancing drugs. Lance Armstrong’s once-great career has been tarnished by his mistakes with drugs as well. And, despite the fact that it was
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It is not her accolades that make Richardson a positive role model...it is the humility she displays. — EMILY BROWN
a few years ago, many will remember Tiger Woods for his extramarital affairs rather than his golf prowess. It is a sad reality that sports, an entity that I believe should bring people together, is recognized as a place where good reputations can so easily die. Although it may be harder to find those honorable role models in sports today, I encourage fans not to give up on the people in the uniforms they love. Despite the current condition of sports, there are many players and coaches who can be admired as positive role models. As a recognizable pastime and means of entertainment in America, sports provide a platform for athletes and coaches to glorify God and stand up for the positive values in culture. While Tim Tebow may not take the field as an NFL quarterback this season, he is still a solid Christian who, despite the circumstances, leads a life above reproach and can be looked to as a role model in sports. Tony Dungy, former Indianapolis Colts head coach and current NFL analyst, is also an honorable
figure. In addition to these two, there are others in the world of sports who may not be household names today, but who can be counted on to provide a good example, such as Dot Richardson, the new head softball coach at Liberty University. Richardson, a decorated softball player, represented Team USA the first time softball was a part of the Olympic Games in 1996 and once again in 2000, bringing home two gold medals. In addition to her accomplishments in softball, Richardson is a licensed orthopedic surgeon. Though I could spout off many more of Richardson’s accomplishments, it is not her accolades that make Richardson a positive role model. Instead, it is the humility she displays. By the world’s standards, Richardson has every reason to boast. However, even as she stood on the gold medal podium in 1996 on the biggest international stage for athletics, Richardson did not exude pride in her accomplishments. “The only way I can explain it is I felt this over-
whelming sense of humility that we were chosen,” Richardson said. “We were the chosen 15 to represent all who’d ever dreamt of it, all who were deserving before us but never given the opportunity.” So while it may take a little more digging to find role models in the world of sports, they are definitely out there. I encourage sports fans to do more than just think of the games as entertainment. Push past the increasing amount of stories about fallen stars and look for those athletes and coaches who lead lives that are above reproach and who can be looked to as good role models. BROWN is a copy editor. Liberty News
WELCOME — Richardson joins LU family.
City panics without hit television show
Residents reach out to law enforcement after power outage delays airing of the newest “Breaking Bad” episode David Van Dyk dvandyk@liberty.edu
As the call came into the Fairfield Police Department, the dispatcher answered the phone and heard a worried voice over the line. But it was not because of a robbery, a kidnapping or even a cat in a tree. It was to complain about a television show, or rather the lack thereof. As families throughout Fairfield, Conn. gathered ‘round to watch the muchanticipated episode of the hit TV show “Breaking Bad” Sunday, Aug. 18, they experienced a very disturbing revelation: the cable was out. According to Gabriel Falcon, a reporter for CNN, the situation caused mass hysteria. “A power outage knocked out cable service Sunday evening in parts of Connecticut, leaving Cablevision customers unable to watch television, including the hit show now in its final season,” Falcon said. “While most viewers chose
to wait for service to be restored, others opted for a far less rational course of action: calling 911.” Unfortunately, the families’ rapid responses were not met with enthusiasm from the police department. After several calls, the Fairfield Police Department posted on their official Facebook page. “We are receiving numerous 911 calls regarding the Cablevision outage. This is neither an emergency or a police related concern. Please direct your inquiries to Cablevision. 911 should only be called for Life Threatening Emergencies ONLY.” Regrettably, this exploitation of the emergency system is not limited to the above incident. It happens all too often and oftentimes stops qualified officials from handling an authentic emergency. My suggestion: the next time you have a problem and think of contacting your local police department, ask if it is something you can handle yourself.
Michael Rosenfield, New Hampshire bureau chief for CBS Boston’s WBZ-TV News, reported a startling story of a woman putting in multiple non-emergency 911 calls. “A Hooksett, New Hampshire woman has called 911 10 times this month, and Hooksett Police say now she went too far,” Rosenfield wrote in the article. “Jeanie Dufresne was arrested over the weekend for calling 911 for a pen.” Dufresne was arrested for misuse of 911. Interestingly enough, Dufresne has a history of calling 911 for things like wanting to talk to somebody. I would not exactly call that life threatening. Same goes for lack of a pen. The 911 emergency system exists so that any civilian in trouble can dial the triple digits and know that there will be someone on the other end every time, ready to send help. If an individual dials 911 for anything other than a legitimate crisis, it ties up re-
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DESPERATION — “Breaking Bad” fans were outraged by cable power outage. sources that could be helping someone else. This not only touches on the local level, but also on the federal level, involving prank calls to the Coast Guard. Hoax calls are made to the Coast Guard all too often and many times go untraced. David McCormick, however, was not so lucky. According to Henry Lee of the San Francisco
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Chronicle, McCormick put in a false call to the Coast Guard and was subsequently arrested after a chase along the coastline. When fraud calls or pointless 911 requests are made, it inevitably restrains resources from responding to an emergency situation, whether in the city or along the coastline. This not only costs time, but also, should a response
be made, money is spent unnecessarily. As a point of reference, if your problem is not an immediate emergency, it might be best to let the boys in blue deal with the bigger issues at hand.
VAN DYK is an opinion writer.
The Champion encourages community members to submit letters to the editor on any subject. Letters should not exceed 400 words and must be typed and signed. The deadline is 5 p.m. Friday. Letters and columns that appear are the opinion of the author solely, not the Champion editorial board or Liberty University. All material submitted becomes property of the Champion. The Champion reserves the right to accept, reject or edit any letter received—according to the Champion stylebook, taste and the Liberty University mission statement.
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DINING — Students enjoy a meal at the Bistro ’71, one of many dining options introduced to the university in the last few years.
Sodexo introduces new options
Dining has made changes to on-campus services and announced plans for new facilities in the near future Joshua Janney jjanney@liberty.edu
Sodexo made numerous changes to Liberty University’s on-campus dining throughout the summer of 2013 and announced numerous changes planned for the future. “One of the biggest changes is that we have completely redesigned the menu at Doc’s Diner so that it has a different type of service as well as a different menu,” Lori Madden, district manager for Sodexo, said. Doc’s Diner has abandoned waited table service in favor of a faster-paced system in which students use their meal swipe cards to pick up a meal and choose their own seat. Madden revealed that changes at Doc’s Diner were the result of feedback from student focus groups who wanted faster and more convenient dining. “The restaurant-styled service really took a lot longer, and the wait times were pretty excessive,” Madden said. “We are
now able to get students in and out quicker and also entice them to stay on campus, as opposed to having to go off campus or across the street to Reber.” Madden stated that the Hangar will not be reopened after closing due to construction of The Jerry Falwell Library. The library will include several new dining options including a Pizza Hut Express, a fully licensed Starbucks cafe, a Tsunami Sushi and a Brioche Dorée, a French bakery and cafe. “We feel like we are selecting the type of food service and products that this demographic responds well to,” Madden said. “I feel that the students will respond very positively because we have actively engaged those students and have gotten feedback.” According to Cheryl Wolff, general manager of Sodexo, student input also played a large role in the creation of many late-night dining options. The Bistro, Doc’s Diner and Dunkin’ Donuts stay open until 11:30 p.m., while Sub Connec-
tion at the Tilley Student Center will stay open until 11 p.m. “The students love the (late-night) concept, and they love that it’s to-go,” Wolf said. “And again, that was a direct result from what the students are telling us in our surveys and focus groups. They want more options.” Madden and Wolff also revealed that a Jamba Juice and a convenience store component are currently under construction at the East Campus Clubhouse. Though a specific date has not been set, they said the store will open at some point during the fall 2013 semester. “The way that (students) travel by going past the clubhouse and through the tunnel makes it convenient for them to come by there and get a smoothie or a breakfast sandwich on the way to convocation,” Madden said. “So it’s really responding to the students’ needs to be mobile, to have grab-and-go food and have more options.” Madden said Sodexo is striving to make
dining convenient for athletes on Campus East with strict diets. “We will be able to offer some additional packaged meals that would meet their nutritional requirements if they can purchase from the convenient store with a meal swipe,” Madden said. Wolf also mentioned that Sodexo is working hard to provide healthier foods. Another new dining option for those seeking nutritional diets is the vegetarian station at the Reber-Thomas Dining Hall. According to Wolff, the station will be very helpful for students who require gluten-free diets. “We’ve looked and made sure that every station has good, healthy options that students can go to,” Wolff said. “That menu is always looked at very closely on an ongoing basis.” Wolff said Sodexo hopes to continue to provide changes to its dining services when needed. JANNEY is a news reporter.
Impact Movement spreads gospel
New student chapter focuses on reaching out to the African-American community Shelby Sayer ssayer@liberty.edu
After being inspired to change the lives of college students through God’s word, senior Macklyn Mosley created the first official Impact Movement chapter at Liberty University, January 2013. According to Mosley, the mission of Impact is to take the gospel of Jesus Christ into surrounding campuses and communities. Impact is a part of Campus Crusades for Christ (CCC), which is a global mission to spread the gospel through ministries, chapters, projects and missions across the world. “I knew this was something I wanted to do, and it was what the Lord wanted,” Mosley said. “He called me to do this. Impact essentially does the same things as CCC, but we are more contextualized to a specific culture and group of people. Our focus is on the African-American community ... particularly in an innercity environment.” Chad Gobar, the community and outreach evangelism coordinator for Impact, said he thinks this organization is unlike other clubs on Liberty’s campus. “I’ve been on other outreach teams where we will meet one day a week and volunteer in the community, but what’s different about Impact is that we meet throughout the week and develop a community of friends where we can mentor and guide one another,” Gobar said. Mosley encourages students that feel led to come and take on roles in the club. “To be on leadership, our process is more of prayer than of votes,” Mosley said. “Because our ministry is so Christ-centered, we don’t want to be just another ‘cool club.’ We want to see that same fruit that we’re pouring into a person being nourished by the gospel. Our leadership is composed of people that have been thoughtfully prepared and prayed for.” According to Mosley, apart from leadership positions, Impact is always welcoming
Photo Provided
FELLOWSHIP — Students enjoy playing a game at an Impact meeting.
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I knew this was something I wanted to do, and it was what the Lord wanted. He called me to do this. — Macklyn Mosley
new volunteers. The team meets at least every Monday in DeMoss Hall 1878, and those on leadership lead small groups. “This year we want to be more intentional and more relational,” Mosley said. “We especially want to get involved with freshmen and other students here on campus. We’re going to focus spreading the gospel through campus events we have coming up, such as a
movie night and a panel where students can come and ask questions, so we can pour our hearts out to the gospel.” According to Mosley, Impact has also created a freshman outreach plan where it will be hosting a number of events, such as Bible studies, prayer meetings and partnering with CampusSERVE for community outreach. Impact will be hosting a documentary night Sept. 21 from 8-10:30 p.m. that will provide an opportunity to introduce what Impact is and discuss future events such as a Dialogue Night and a fall retreat for its Bible study, Mosley said. “The gospel isn’t here just to save people, but to disciple them,” Gobar said. “The celebration doesn’t stop after someone is saved, and that’s why we’re here.” To learn more about Impact Movement, contact chapter leader Macklyn Mosley at mdmosley@liberty.edu. SAYER is a news reporter.
GLOBAL continued from A1 “The crowds at the tables after the meeting were massive,” Boorom said. “It was great to see so many students interested in the trips. I may not personally be going on these trips, but I am able to support the students by helping make it easy for them to be successful. I get to do what I love while helping a cause that is bigger than myself.” Both Indyk and Boorom have previously traveled with the CGE on global teams and realize the permanent impact the opportunity has on students’ hearts and lives. “I met people in Nepal who had never heard the name of Jesus, and I got to tell them about him,” Boorom said. “I experienced their culture. I watched them worship their own gods, and I saw the need for Jesus there. It opened my eyes and reminded me how important it is to tell people about Jesus and never stop sharing.” When asked if she had any advice for students considering a trip this year, Indyk responded with a word of motivation. “Never let fear get in the way of making a trip globally,” Indyk said. “God has you in his hand and he’s never going to let you go. Never be afraid to answer his call because it could lead to something miraculous that you’ll never forget.” Liberty will send a total of 19 teams abroad over Christmas, spring break and summer. To find out more information or to apply, visit www.liberty.edu/globalteams. FULLER is the opinion editor.
NEWS
SEPTEMBER 3, 2013
Liberty Champion/A7
Enrollment booms Liberty student body continues to grow as Dr. Falwell always desired recent data, Shackleton foresees the surpassing of yet another milestone. He attributes the fast growth to Chancellor Jerry Falwell, Jr. and his wife, Becki Falwell. “The chancellor and his wife have done a phenomenal job bringing life and activity to this campus,” Shackleton said. “The things Becki and Jerry have done cannot be numbered.” The rapid growth in the amount of students is only paralleled by the speedy expansion of the campus. During Liberty’s 40th commencement ceremony in 2013, Falwell said that much of Liberty’s foundational growth will benefit future students. According to the master plan located on Liberty’s website, the university will soon add facilities such as new residential buildings, one of which will house more than 1,200 students in a nine-story building and is expected to be completed for the 2014-2015 academic year. The DeMoss Learning Center will be expanded to accommodate a 40,000 square-foot center with three levels in order to provide additional food court space. Other additions, such as extra parking spaces, a graduate campus and a
Tiffany Samuels tksamuels@liberty.edu
Dr. Jerry Falwell publicized his desire to have 50,000 students enrolled at Liberty University in 1985, 25,000 online and 25,000 in residence. Today, the student body continues to expand at a rapid pace toward that goal. According to Larry Shackleton, the vice president for Administrative Information Management and Registrar, as of August 2013, nearly 75,000 students are enrolled at Liberty. For the fall semester, more than 61,000 students have enrolled in Liberty University Online, a significant increase from last year’s numbers for the same date, and 13,019 students are currently enrolled residentially. Last year, there were 12,645 residential students enrolled for the fall 2012 semester. This year, that number has increased by more than 300 students. Shackleton predicts that Liberty will have more than 100,000 students enrolled by the end of the fall semester. Last year, Liberty did not hit the 100,000 mark until late in the spring semester. With this
school of music, are in the works as well. Amidst the quickly changing campus, new students are expressing their excitement in being at the largest Christian evangelical college in the world. According to freshman Devon Holmes, he had a lot of questions about Liberty’s mission and the various facilities when he first arrived on campus. “A student gave me an actual tour of the campus and told me what Liberty was all about,” Holmes said. “My experience has been marvelous.” Despite all of the future buildings and accommodations the university plans to create, Shackleton believes that students are choosing Liberty now more than ever because of the university’s unwavering faith and foundation. “Christianity is infectious,” Shackleton said. “That is a wonderful thing.” According to the Registrar, Liberty continues to grow at a rapid pace, with the largest freshman class ever to be accepted this past fall. SAMUELS is a news reporter.
Sam Chappell | Liberty Champion
COURTHOUSE — Staver will represent Liberty in the controversial New Jersey lawsuit.
LAWSUIT continued from A1 Several proponents of the bill argued that therapy for the purpose of change is cruel to the client involved. “There is no greater achievement than helping to stop the abuse of our youth,” Troy Stevenson of the group Garden State Equality told the Los Angeles Times. “It will protect young people from being abused by those they should trust the most: their parents and their doctors.” Christie said his decision to sign the bill was based on conducted research. “Efforts to change sexual orientation can pose critical health risks, including, but not limited to, depression, substance abuse, social withdrawal, decreased self-esteem and suicidal thoughts,” Christie
wrote in a statement. According to Staver, the research Christie relied upon did not study minors and was conducted by the American Psychological Association (APA) Task Force of 2009, which consisted of a handful of pro-homosexual members and excluded any researchers with a differing view. “Even that very biased group of people had to state in the task force report that they found evidence of people who benefited by counseling and that actually reported that they no longer had same-sex attractions or behavior or identity… Christie should have done his homework,” Staver said. Nicholas Cummings, homosexual rights activist and former president of the APA, shared his opinion on the study’s results shortly before Christie signed the bill into law. “Attempting to characterize all
sexual reorientation therapy as ‘unethical’ violates patient choice and gives an outside party a veto over patients’ goals for their own treatment,” Cummings wrote in USA Today. “The political agenda shouldn’t prevent gays and lesbians who desire to change from making their own decisions.” According to Staver, he believes the bill is unconstitutional but will also have a negative impact on society. “If you had someone like Jerry Sandusky sexually molest a young boy, and (the boy) developed same-sex sexual attractions … and said ‘give me some help,’ what’s the counselor going to do?” Staver said. “It will be damaging to children, damaging to parents, it will be damaging to counselors, and it will be ultimately destructive of freedom.” TAIT is the asst. news editor.
CELEBRATING THE
30
th
‘83
Photo Provided
VOLUNTEER — Community Care Initiative in action.
Helping the community Students leave a lasting impression on Lynchburg by works of love James Ebrahim jebrahim2@liberty.edu
The Community Care Initiative (CCI) is a Liberty University-affiliated program seeking to provide opportunities for students to serve the community in short-term service projects to meet immediate needs and demonstrate the love of Christ to Lynchburg and surrounding regions. Since its beginning in the fall semester of 2012 to the spring semester of 2013, CCI has completed 119 care projects, according to Will Honeycutt, the program’s faculty coordinator. There were 881 participants who helped to provide more than 3,300 hours of care. Participants included students, alumni, staff and faculty of Liberty, according to CCI’s website. The projects range from helping physically and mentally disabled people with routine chores to indoor projects like laying floor or painting. According to their website, CCI’s mission is “to leave a lasting impression on our local community and show them the love of Christ in a physical and tangible way.” Honeycutt related how doing community service is often seen in a negative light and used as punishment both in America and even at times at Liberty. CCI is exactly the opposite. “People are doing it because they really care and want to, not because they have to,” Honeycutt said. “They are not being forced. There is no compulsion here.” CCI’s motto is “Demonstrating our faith by doing our neighbor good,” and its theme verse is James 2:18, which says, “But someone will say, ‘You have faith and I have works.’ Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works.” “Both of these prove that
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the resounding concept around Community Care Initiative is faith,” Honeycutt said. “The motivation is our faith, nothing else.” According to its website, CCI is about being like Christ. Honeycutt said that he hopes the Initiative will also help to offset some negative views of the university. “It really opens up doors and changes perceptions, so people can see what Christianity really is,” Honeycutt said. According to Honeycutt, a recent partnership with Rush Homes has provided many new opportunities to students involved in the CCI. According to their website, “Rush Homes is a non-profit organization that provides affordable and accessible rental housing opportunities to people with disabilities and low incomes in the greater Lynchburg region.” Honeycutt said that Rush Homes is using care team members to help with maintenance at their locations. Projects include raking, sanding and staining decks, and yard work. “The word ‘initiative’ is used in the title of the program, and it is encouraged for students to find more opportunities to care for the community,” Honeycutt said. “If you are giving care to people in the community, we would like to know about it.” For more information on how to get involved, email cci@liberty.edu. EBRAHIM is a news reporter.
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NEWS
SEPTEMBER 3, 2013
Liberty Champion/A8
Old to new OSL changes leadership titles
Ryan Fowle rfowle@liberty.edu
The Office of Student Leadership (OSL) has enacted changes in the titles of several leadership positions that have elicited many different responses among the students on campus. According to the OSL website, replacing the old titles of spiritual life director (SLD) and prayer leader (PL) are spiritual life coach (SLC) and prayer and life group leader (PLGL). Will Crabtree, an office assistant in the OSL and current resident assistant, stated that the change in terms was focused on clarification of general responsibilities, and that the positions otherwise remain the same as last semester. Crabtree also shared that, while no individual or direct concerns led to it, this title change will reduce general confusion among new students and College for a Weekend (CFAW) visitors. Prospective students and parents frequently ask about the duties and reasons for the lower leadership positions, and the OSL is hopeful this change will reduce misunderstandings. “I’m very happy with the changes,” Administrative Assistant Korie Honaker said. “Upper leaders, we respect them so much. We understand that their heart was in this. Prayer was in this. We know they really sought out the Lord with these changes.” Sophomore Tim Kjellman said he had a different opinion on the issue. “It’s not necessary to change something so menial when everyone’s already used to it,” Kjellman said. “Instead of changing the names, (they) should change the training and requirements.” Kjellman said he does not think he is alone in his view and feels he represents the majority opinion. Honaker said that the OSL predicted initial resistance to the change, but expects that students will more or less grow to accept the differences. She also explained that many of the titles add to clarification. “It made more sense because rather than directing the student, we’re right alongside of them, helping them along like a coach,” Honaker said. “We’re not just praying for and with the student — we’re also doing life with them.” Crabtree said that the OSL expects the resistance to fade over time. “Just like when they changed Campus North to Green Hall,” — KORIE Crabtree said. “You still have HONAKER people calling it Campus North, but for the most part, (Green Hall has) become the new name. It’s begun to stick. Especially as new people come in, that’ll be the name they’re familiar with.” According to both Honaker and Crabtree, higher student leadership positions such as resident director and resident assistant will remain the same. “I think for the time being everything is pretty settled,” Honaker said. “Everything is where it’s supposed to be right now.”
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Rather than directing the student, we’re right alongside of them, helping them along like a coach.
FOWLE is a news reporter.
Angie Pacitti | Liberty Champion
BEGINNING— CEO Melinda Wilson cuts the ribbon to celebrate the opening of a new facility.
Humbly I Serve opens facility Lynchburg Regional Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon cutting Aug. 28
Emily Webster ewebster@liberty.edu
The Lynchburg Regional Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon cutting Aug. 28 to celebrate the opening of a new facility for the nonprofit organization Humbly I Serve (HIS). The ceremony took place on Wards Road at the new building that will house the HIS office. Mike Lewis, director of sales for the Chamber, spoke during the ceremony and said that the organization will impact the world. HIS was founded by Melinda Wilson in 2010 and seeks to provide “educational, medical, recreational and outreach programs across the Caribbean,” HIS website stated. “We started originally just with our His Kids program,” Wilson, CEO of HIS, said. “(D)uring that time, especially in Trinidad, I noticed that there was a lack of physical needs being met. So I got invited on a trip to Haiti. It wasn’t very specific. It was just come to Haiti (and) bring your eye care equipment, because there’s a need for that. And that’s when we branched out into providing eye care. So (we are) not only just working with children, children’s ministry and outreach, but now we’re into providing eye care and eye care education.” Wilson said the promotion of the Lynchburg Regional Chamber provides an opportunity to network and to show the people what HIS is and how they can help the community. Brian Knopp, a member of the Chamber, said he wanted to welcome HIS to the community. “I think it’s important as a community that we reach out to each other and come up with ideas of what we might be able to (do) to
work together,” Knopp said. The staff of HIS said it hopes to work with the community by informing the public of the current needs in Haiti and the Caribbean. “Lynchburg can definitely help to provide education about our organization as a whole, but then specifically about eye care and the need for it, because it’s one of the really missing links in the healthcare system for children,” Joy Marinelli, COO of HIS, said. Marinelli said they are offering the opportunity for students and churches to go on missions trips and to serve in the ministry. “We’re right down the street from Liberty,” Marinelli said. “We’re very local, very grassroots, and people love that, so they like to come on board and be involved with a small organization. And that’s something that we have to offer that, maybe it’s harder to get on board with larger organizations and things like that and really get to know people, so we have like a little niche in that way.” According to Haley Collins, director of business development for HIS, the ministry offers a wide variety of options for people to get involved. “The types of roles we can offer are much different,” Collins said. “(W)e have a ton of development. Like if someone comes in and they really enjoy photography and they want to … raise funds to teach a photography class in St. Thomas, that’s something that we can offer them. So it’s very hands-on.” Chamber member Susan Myers said that people will want to be a part of HIS and the work that they are doing throughout the community and throughout Haiti. “People are looking for a Christian atmosphere and Christian organizations,” Myers said. “This is a perfect
place for Humbly I Serve’s vision … (I hope they accomplish) awareness of the needs around the world and ways for the citizens in Lynchburg to get involved, because I think it’s important that we all look beyond our own needs and give.” Already involved in the community, Wilson said that they are starting to plant a seed for better education. “At Liberty this year the … special education dean has accepted a plan that we presented to … add a lot to their curriculum about eye care and educating the teachers — or the tobe teachers — other things that are not in the curriculum currently,” Wilson said. Despite the influence they already have in the community, Wilson said their main focus is St. Thomas and Haiti. “This year has been a big year for us,” Wilson said. “We just … accomplished two of our goals that we’ve been working on for the past couple of years. One is to start our overnight camp in St. Thomas, so this is our first year for that … And then in Haiti specifically, we now have someone in Haiti, an American, and that’s huge for what we’re doing, and we have some more support staff headed down that way in the next month and a half … So it’s very exciting.” Wilson said the organization is always looking for more volunteers or interns. For more information, visit their Facebook page at facebook. com/humblyiserve. WEBSTER is a copy editor.
CASAS moves to new location in Green Hall Dylan Friberg dwfriberg@liberty.edu
After eight years of operation on DeMoss Hall’s second floor, the Center for Academic Support and Advising Services (CASAS) moved July 2013 to the second floor of Green Hall in room 2668. According to CASAS Dean Dr. Brian Yates, there were multiple reasons for the transition from DeMoss Hall. “As the university continues to make infrastructure and program enhancements, space was needed for additional expansion and movement of other academic programs,” Yates said. “The move allowed many of the CASAS entities to be located in one location for a one-stop shop.” According to its promotional material, CASAS is a group of services offered to Liberty’s student body. These services range from professional advising to setting up individualized programs of study. The move to Green Hall has not affected the number of students coming to the center. Ac-
Courtney Russo| Liberty Champion
EXPANSION — A new location provides more space for CASAS. cording to Yates, a record number of students came in during the add/drop period. One of the busiest entities of CASAS is the professional advising service, according to Professional Adviser Nathan Nettekoven. All freshmen are met with and given advice on planning their degree. “Professional advising offers assistance that is more beneficial to underclassmen than upperclassman,” Nettekoven said. “Honestly, what we offer is not anything unknown. Sopho-
mores, juniors and seniors typically don’t have many questions because we are deliberate in meeting with all freshmen and showing every student how to plan their degree.” Professional Adviser Paige Kappler said that, more than anything, advising offers clarification for students. “Looking at a degree completion plan can be overwhelming as a new student,” Kappler said. “We are able to take the big picture and break it down into semesters for them, as well as clari-
fy what policies and prerequisites accompany their degree plan.” Kappler offered advice for new students to set goals and expectations early on and to take ownership of their education. Nettekoven stressed the importance for new students to take their GPA seriously. “College is an expense, and a student can limit their career choices and grad school options by failing to treat their GPA as the career advancer that it is,” Nettekoven said. Beyond professional advising, CASAS offers many other services. According to Dean Yates, the Center for Writing and Languages is a place that every student should utilize. He said that good writing skills are essential in the job market, and the writing center can help students become the best writers that they can possibly be. Yates added that another great program offered through CASAS is technical studies. “For many students, the various trade courses — carpentry, welding, HVAC, electrical and plumbing — can be used
as electives,” Yates said. “You never know when you may use these skills.” CASAS also offers assistance in tutoring, testing, career preparation and academic assistance for those with a disability. Once students graduate, the Career Center still offers its services, according to Yates. The center helps alumni with résumé building, interview skills and connecting with employers through LU Network. “LU Network is a wonderful tool to help connect employers with Liberty talent and is our version of monster.com,” Yates said. For more information on CASAS, visit liberty.edu/casas. FRIBERG is a news reporter.
SPORTS
SEPTEMBER 3, 2013
Football
Liberty 10
Kent St. 17
Field Hockey
Liberty 4
St. Joe’s 0
M. Soccer
Liberty Ga. State 1 0
B1
W. Soccer
Volleyball
Liberty American 2
Liberty Green Bay
0
0
3
Ruth Bibby | Liberty Champion
FIGHT — Junior running back Desmond Rice and the rest of the Flames rushing attack struggled to move the ball against a tough Kent. St. front seven.
A ‘golden’ evening turns dark Fourth quarter mistakes hurt Liberty’s chances to defeat Kent State Golden Flashes in season opener Derrick Battle dbattle2@liberty.edu
Due to an ankle injury in the first quarter that caused him to sit out the rest of the game, Heisman hopeful running back Dri Archer was not a threat. Instead, it was redshirt freshman quarterback Colin Reardon, making his first collegiate start, who made an impact for the Kent State Golden Flashes (1-0, 0-0 MAC). While penalties hurt the Golden Flashes early in the game (eight penalties for 71 yards by halftime), they became the Liberty Flames (0-1, 0-0 Big South) achilles heel late in the fourth quarter. With the game tied at 10, two penalties helped set up a Reardon connection with wide receiver Chris Humphrey, who turned upfield for a 42-yard touchdown that gave
the Golden Flashes a 17-10 lead with 4:28 left in the game. That drive started at Kent State’s 12yard line with 8:01 remaining in the game and consumed nearly four minutes of clock. “It was no excuse,” defensive back Walt Aikens said. “We can’t just say we almost beat them because we had a chance to win. We wanted this victory, but we have to move on and focus on Monmouth.” On the ensuing possession, Liberty started at its 14-yard line and faced the student section of Dix Stadium. After picking up a first down on the drive, two plays later, the Flames converted on third-and-five. Quarterback Josh Woodrum showed his poise in the pocket and delivered a 23-yard pass to wide receiver Darrin Peterson. During the next set of downs however, Woodrum and Peterson
tried to connect on third and fourth down, but failed, solidifying a 17-10 Golden Flashes victory. “I liked the way we played,” Head Coach Turner Gill said. “I liked our effort, but they made more plays than we did.” At the beginning of the first quarter, the Flames offense and defense were stagnant. The Golden Flashes controlled the line of scrimmage, which showed on their first possession. The drive included 14 plays for 75 yards, chewed eight minutes off the clock, and ended with Reardon throwing a 6-yard touchdown to his tight end Casey Pierce. However, at the start of the second quarter, the Flames found their rhythm. With six minutes remaining on the clock, defensive lineman Chima Uzowihe stripped Reardon when he scrambled out
of the pocket, and Liberty safety Jacob Hagen recovered the fumble. The turnover gave Woodrum and his offense a short field, where running back Clifton Richardson was used exclusively to carry the load on the ground. A defensive pass interference penalty also helped the Flames offense. They were able to get the ball down to the Golden Flashes 3-yard line, but they were not able to punch the ball into the end zone and had to settle for a field goal. “I’m glad to see the team respond to adversity,” Gill said. “It’s good to see them come back and play hard and make some more plays on the offensive line. It was great to see our receivers make plays. They did not play a whole lot last year. We are in good shape.
See GOLDEN, B3
Ready to skate Jacob Tellers jtellers@liberty.edu
Liberty University’s Division I Men’s hockey team has high expectations for the upcoming year after finishing last season ranked 13th among American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA) teams. With a mix of returning starters and fresh faces for the new season, the Flames look to make another trip to the postseason. According to Head Coach Kirk Handy, the Flames will be involved in 25 battles versus teams who ended last season ranked in the top 20 in the nation. “We are looking forward to the challenge week in
and week out of playing any of those teams in the top, because they are all formidable opponents,” Handy said. “Going into the season … (there are) certain key games where we need victories,” Handy said. “We see those as key elements building up to a national championship.” “Our first game that will be a great test for us is at Ohio,” Handy said. Arizona, Delaware and Arizona State are other teams Handy is looking forward to playing this season. “Once we get to the tournament, we will be battle-tested and ready to make a long run this year,” Handy said. The Flames trip to the
WE’LL SEE YOU AT THE GAME
postseason last year started with a win in their first game against John Carroll University, but that was followed by a loss to Ohio in the next round. In the offseason, the Flames worked on becoming a “bigger, faster, quicker team,” and have improved their foot speed and conditioning according to Handy. Last season, assistant captain defender Matt Sherry had a career-high 17 points and hopes to contribute more in his elevated status this year. “Work ethic is something that we pride ourselves on, and we are going to hang our hats on this year,” Sherry said.
See SKATE, B4
Volleyball vs. Georgetown Sept. 3 @ 7 p.m.
Goals galore Alex Tichenor atichenor@liberty.edu
Ruth Bibby | Liberty Champion
DROP THE PUCK — The Flames kick off the season against the Atlanta Jr. Knights Friday, Sept. 6.
M. Soccer vs. IUPUI Sept. 6 @ 6 p.m.
After finishing the 2012 season — only the second year of the program — with a 16-6 record, the Lady Flames (1-0) field hockey team downed the St. Joseph’s Hawks (0-1), 4-0. Sophomore forward Natalie Barr scored a goal and assisted on two others, while sophomore defender Hannah Jones added two goals of her own — one of which came on a penalty stroke. Sophomore forward Ashlee Krulock netted the Lady Flames other score.
See GOALS, B4
Football vs. Monmouth Sept. 7 @ 7 p.m.
SPORTS
SEPTEMBER 3, 2013
Liberty Champion/ B2
Second-half goals uplift Liberty
Late goals by Megan Warner and Crystal Elmers give the Lady Flames a 2-0 victory over the Lady Monarchs Joseph Park ypark9@liberty.edu
Under the scorching heat of a Friday afternoon, the Lady Flames women’s soccer team defeated the Old Dominion Lady Monarchs in their home opener at Osborne Stadium. The 2-0 victory marks the first win of the season for the Lady Flames. Liberty senior forward Megan Warner and sophomore forward Crystal Elmers each scored in the second half to propel the Lady Flames. Alanna Dunkle assisted both goals. In the 68th minute, Dunkle passed the ball into an open space and Warner took a shot from just outside the penalty box to score. The Lady Flames second goal came when Elmers scored on a cross from Dunkle. In the first half, the Flames played an offensive game with 11 shots and four corner kicks taken, while the opposing team
Macklyn Mosley | Liberty Champion
“But we started to piece more passes together (and we) won more balls in the air, which led me into scoring the second goal of this game.” Lady Flames Head Coach Jessica Hain acknowledged her team’s effort. “Our offense was very effective in keeping their defenders under pressure.” Hain said. “We did a great job in challenging against the entire endline and not just a goal. So, attacking the endline created a lot of corner kicks for us, which opened up opportunities for goals.” The Lady Flames will return to action Friday, Sept. 6 at 8 p.m. against Drexel University.
CRUISE CONTROL — Midfielder Madison Kauzlarich gains possession of the ball. only took one shot and one corner kick. The Lady Flames added four more shots in the second half for a total of 15 and held Old Dominion to only two shots on goal in the game.
“It feels good to have scored (in) the home opener for the team and we have shown great team effort in defense as well.” Megan Warner said. “Our game plan was to play our
Volleyball struggles
Flames took a while to find their rhythm, Elmers thought they started to control the pace of the game in the second half. “The game went off slow at first,” Elmers said.
PARK is a sports reporter.
Running down history Haley Jones hjones20@liberty.edu
Courtney Tyree cntyree@liberty.edu
The Liberty Flames volleyball team was in high spirits Friday, Aug. 30 as it played its first game of the Northern Illinois University (NIU) Invitational against the nationally ranked Ohio State Buckeyes Liberty fell short and was swept by the Buckeyes (25-22, 25-22, 26-24). The Buckeyes outhit the Flames 45 kills to 33. Senior Lillie Happel led the Flames on the day with 15 kills, recording 10 or more kills in a season opener for the fourth straight time. Setter Jade Craycraft recorded 26 assists and seven digs in the match. The Flames were looking for their first win of the season as they headed into the second day of the NIU Invitational against the NIU Huskies. NIU took the match from the Flames, winning all three sets with 25-16, 25-15, 25-22 scores. The win boosted NIU’s record 3-0 for the season and pushed Liberty’s record to 0-2. With a .300 attack percentage, the Huskies posted 45 kills against Liberty’s 22 kills. The Flames gained momentum and took the lead in the third set, going up 16-14, but were unable to hold onto the lead. NIU then pulled through, taking the third set. Craycraft aided the team with five kills, seven digs and 14 assists. Happel had five kills in the match and Junior Gabrielle Shipe led the Flames in digs with 17. Liberty took on Green Bay in its last effort to gain a win in the NIU Invitational on Saturday, Aug. 31, but lost in a 3-0 sweep (25-23, 25-21, 25-20). The Flames were down in the first set 1813, but fought back, rallying to score the next five points. However, Green Bay came
target forward in the feet and dish off the ball to the midfielders for them to make the decision either to shoot it or to pass it to an open forward.“ Although the Lady
Ruth Bibby | Liberty Champion
SPIKE — Liberty went 0-3 during its trip. back and won the game point on a Liberty error, winning 25-23. Green Bay took an early lead in the second set (10-2), but the Flames came through decreasing the Phoenix lead to two. Despite Liberty’s effort, Green Bay kept the lead through the second set, taking another game from the Lady Flames. In a last-chance effort, the Flames came out ready for a win in the third set. The set was tied 15-15 until Green Bay went on a 9-2 rally, putting the Phoenix at match point. Green Bay held on to sweep the Flames in the final set. Green Bay held a slight lead in digs, 5249, in the match and also led the Flames in hitting percentage, .158 to .115. Redshirt senior Kendle Rollins led the Flames with 10 kills, Craycraft led in assists with 20 and Shipe posted a season-high 20 digs. Averaging 5.22 digs per set on the weekend, Shipe was named to the NIU Invitational All-Tournament team. Liberty will host Georgetown in its home opener Tuesday, Sept. 3 at 7 p.m. in the Vines Center. TYREE is a sports reporter.
The Liberty men’s cross country team is looking to win the Big South Conference for the ninth straight year, while the women aim to win their second consecutive title. Each team hopes to qualify for the NCAA Division I Cross Country Championships for the first time. Both teams opened their seasons Friday, Aug. 30 at the University of Virginia duals, competing against the 17th-ranked Virginia Cavaliers and the Radford Highlanders. The men fell to Virginia 35-20 and defeated Radford 15-40, while the women also fell to Virginia by a score of 40-15 and defeated Radford 20-35. The women’s cross country team will be comprised of a number of new racers, as three of four of last season’s top runners graduated in May. Junior Jacy Christiansen will lead Liberty’s squad as a top runner this season. Junior Meredith Mistretta and senior Jessica Gass will be returning to bolster the Lady Flames as well. The women’s roster also features a dozen new runners on the 20-member team. “As a team, we of course, would love to defend our Big South title,” Christiansen said. “But we’re trying to set our focus beyond that and work toward being regionally and nationally competitive as well.” The men’s team only lost one runner to graduation and has experienced runners Caleb Edmonds, Ngetich Kipchirchir and Jeremie Bourget returning for the season. In 2012, Edmonds finished third in the Big South Cross Country Championships. “We’re excited about the upcoming season because we have such a veteran team,” Head Coach Brant Tolsma said.
“We have essentially the same team as last year, but with another year of running under their belts. Once again, our big goal is to make it to the national championship meet as a team.” Other male returners include Sam Hibbs, Zach Barker and Nate Jones. Most likely to make an impact on the men’s team this season is sophomore transfer Josh Showalter, who was named USA South Men’s Cross Country Rookie of the Year at Christopher Newport last year. Overall, Liberty is expected to perform well this season. In a Big South preseason poll, both men’s and women’s teams were picked to win the conference. The men’s team is ranked eighth in the Southeast Region. Christiansen discussed the importance of the teams seeking to glorify God in their running this season. “Being sold out to Jesus is the main goal of our team(s),” Christiansen said. “There will be challenges throughout the season, but I know God is faithful and will bring us through them all.” The men and women cross country teams will compete again in the VMI Invitational Sept. 21. JONES is a sports reporter.
FYI
The men’s cross country team has won 14 Big South titles. They look to win their ninth consecutive title this season.
SPORTS
SEPTEMBER 3, 2013
Liberty Champion/ B3
Tom Foote | tfoote2@liberty.edu
Breann Black | Liberty Champion
STUDS
SLEEPERS
Must have players for each position •
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The hidden gems that play big
QB – Aaron Rodgers – The Packers do not have much of a running game and have a deep set of receivers, which leads to plenty of touchdowns and yards for the former Super Bowl MVP. RB – Adrian Peterson – The man was nine yards short of the single-season rushing record, and has his goals set on breaking the record. The question is not whether he is the best fantasy player, but how much better is he than everybody else. RB– Arian Foster – The Texans love to run the ball, and Foster should be the main beneficiary, as he has been the past three years, scoring 47 touchdowns. WR – Calvin Johnson – They call him Megatron for a reason. WR – A.J. Green – Green has totaled over 2,400 yards and has 18 touchdowns in his first two seasons. He should continue to get better. TE – Jimmy Graham – With Head Coach Sean Payton returning, Graham remains the main target in the pass-happy Saints offense and is the de facto No. 1 fantasy tight end because of the injury-prone Rob Gronkowski. D/ST – Seahawks – Led by Richard Sherman, the Seahawks defense is dominant top-to-bottom and did not allow more than 10 points in any preseason game. K – It honestly doesn’t matter. Never pick a kicker before the last round.
GOLDEN continued from B1 We have a good football team, but Kent State was better tonight.� During the third and fourth quarters, the Flames passing attack was able to burn the Golden Flashes secondary for huge chunks of yards. On their second possession of the third quarter with 9:33 left, Peterson was able to fight through contact and catch a 58yard bomb from Woodrum. A few plays later, the Flames found themselves in the red zone again. On third-and-seven at
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DUDS Overhyped stars that may fail •
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QB – Joe Flacco – Even though Flacco was clutch in the postseason, he still has not produced the regular-season numbers to justify being picked among the first 10 quarterbacks. RB – Darren McFadden – McFadden is talented, but is also injury prone and plays for the Oakland Raiders. WR – Mike Wallace – Not a horrible player by any stretch of the imagination, but after signing a big new contract with the Dolphins, expectations might be a little too high for any receiver playing with Ryan Tannehill. WR – Greg Jennings – After an injury-plagued 2012 season, Jennings signed with the Vikings. One problem stands between him and a big season — Adrian Peterson is the team’s running back. TE – Kyle Rudolph – Rudolph had a breakout season last year, but the Vikings are a run-first team, and it is hard to imagine Rudolph putting up the same numbers. D/ST – Broncos – Without Von Miller for the first six games and with an aging Champ Bailey, who was tormented by the Ravens in the playoffs, this defense could struggle early in the season.
Kent State’s 11-yard line, Woodrum lofted a pass into the end zone to wide receiver Gabe Henderson for the Flames only touchdown, which gave them a 10-7 lead. “We ran the same play twice,� Woodrum said. “The first time when (Henderson) started to turn to the corner of the end zone (defensive back Malcom Pannel) blocked him and it messed up our timing. But on the second one he got a quick release and he just got to the corner for a touchdown.� In their first possession of the fourth quarter, the Flames were able to beat the
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QB – Sam Bradford – With top 10 pick Tavon Austin and a decent offensive line after the Rams signed Jake Long, Bradford could finally have the time in the pocket and the weapons to reach his full potential. RB – David Wilson – Wilson has game-changing speed and showed his potential in the final few weeks last season while Ahmad Bradshaw was injured. The injury to Andre Brown also means more touches in the red zone for Wilson. RB – Montee Ball – The rookie running back out of Wisconsin will be the starter for the Broncos, and even with Peyton Manning at quarterback, the Broncos still ran the ball the ninth-most times in the NFL last season. WR – Kenbrell Thompkins – With Aaron Hernandez in jail, Wes Welker on the Broncos, Rob Gronkowski constantly injured, and Brandon Lloyd a free agent, Tom Brady has to throw to somebody. Why not Thompkins, who has shined in the preseason? TE – Tyler Eifert – The first-round pick from Notre Dame will have to battle Jermaine Gresham for playing time, but Eifert has been impressive in the preseason. Signs point to him having a chance to shine in the Bengals offense. D/ST – Cardinals – Their defense might not be the best, but Patrick Peterson is not only one of the best cornerbacks in the league, but also one of the best punt and kick returners, which equals big fantasy points.
Golden Flashes secondary once more, as wide receiver Dante Shells found himself open on a go route for 29 yards. “All week we talked about how we really liked our matchups,� Woodrum said. “I thought I put some really good balls up there, and our receivers made some plays. I think we took advantage of what we wanted to. We started kinda slow, so that’s what killed us. You can’t score three points in a half and expect to win a game.� The three-point lead was short-lived as the Golden Flashes relied on their sixfoot-one-inch, 248-pound running back
Trayion Durham to put long drives together to propel their young quarterback. One drive took six minutes off the clock to begin the final quarter and ended in a Kent State field goal. Liberty will host its home opener against the Monmouth (NJ) Hawks (0-1) Sept. 7 at 7 p.m. BATTLE is the sports editor.
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SPORTS
SEPTEMBER 3, 2013
Liberty Champion/ B4
NFL preview: A quest to be champion
With the start of the regular season beginning this week, teams look to be crowned as the leauge best Jonathan Husker jhusker@liberty.edu
It is that time of year again. The days of summer are drawing to a close, and the days until the start of football season can be counted on one hand. With the preseason in the books, we examine the main storylines heading into this Thursday’s season opener. Injuries Jeremy Maclin, Dennis Pitta, Bryan Bulaga, Dustin Keller, Danario Alexander — these are just a few key players who have been lost to season ending injuries throughout training camps and the preseason. Injuries have been a big story in the last few months, and they have caused a grim outlook for the 2013 season for several teams. The defending Super Bowl Champion Baltimore Ravens lost tight end Dennis Pitta, likely for the season. They must figure out how to replace the production of Joe Flacco’s top two targets in Pitta and Anquan Boldin, who is now in San Francisco. The Green Bay Packers offensive line woes continue, as they lost left tackle Bryan Bulaga for the season. The Eagles and Chargers lost their top receivers in Jeremy Maclin and Danario Alexander, which will set back the offense of both teams. QB Controversies With the season opener drawing near, teams are finalizing their rosters and preparing the 53 men that will suit up this weekend. There are a handful of teams, however, who have yet to name a starting quarterback. The New York Jets highly publicized QB battle is still ongoing. Frequently criticized veteran Mark Sanchez has been neck-and-neck with rookie Geno Smith all preseason, and neither has established himself as the starter. Oakland Raider Matt Flynn entered the preseason with expectations of starting, but Ter-
Keith Allison| Creative Commons
FOLLOWING FLACCO — Fresh off a Super Bowl victory, the Ravens look to their leader Joe Flacco to repeat as champions. relle Pryor has been breathing down his neck in recent weeks. Flynn is the more traditional pocket passer, but Pryor excels as both a passer and a scrambler, which would prove beneficial behind the Raiders weak offensive line. A few other battles, such as the battle between Jacksonville Jaguars quarterbacks Blaine Gabbert and Chad Henne, have already been decided, but could easily be reversed during the regular season. New Faces, New Places As is the case every year, star players leave their teams and find new homes through NFL free agency. On the offensive side of the ball, running backs Steven Jackson and Reggie Bush have new teams. Jackson left St. Louis, the team he has called home for his entire career, and joined the Fal-
cons. He will replace Michael Turner as the team’s starting running back. Bush left the Dolphins and signed with the Lions, and he figures to be a key part of that offense as a dual threat, as he can run with the ball as well as catch passes out of the backfield. Several receivers have also found new homes. Mike Wallace left the Steelers and headed south to join the Dolphins. With tight end Dustin Keller lost for the season, Wallace may see even more balls headed his way this year. Longtime Patriots receiver Wes Welker left New England in free agency and signed with the Denver Broncos. The Patriots subsequently added former Rams receiver Danny Amendola to fill the void left by Welker in the slot. On the defensive side of the ball, Darrelle Revis was traded to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Arguably the best cover cornerback in the NFL, Revis will be a key part of the Bucs secondary. Because paperwork was not in on time for pass rusher Elvis Dumervil, he was released from the Broncos and now is a Baltimore Raven. Dumervil will be a key part of the Ravens newly revamped defense. Predictions My choices for the NFC Super Bowl representative came down to two NFC West teams — the 49ers and the Seahawks. The Seahawks have one of the deepest rosters in the NFL, and I believe that they will represent the NFC in the Super Bowl. I would not be surprised at all if the 49ers and Seahawks are the two teams that play in the NFC Championship Game. On the other hand, I found it considerably more difficult to choose an AFC Super Bowl team. The Patriots are a favorite,
but I do not yet trust their receiving corps enough to put my faith in them. While this may surprise some people, the Ravens are an improved group defensively, even without Ray Lewis and Ed Reed. However, their lack of proven pass catchers could be a problem. So, I settled on the Broncos. Peyton Manning still has enough left in the tank to lead a very good offense to the Super Bowl. Ultimately, I think the Seahawks will defeat the Broncos in the Super Bowl and be crowned NFL champions. Injuries to key players, quarterback battles and new faces will keep fans wondering for a few more days. But with the season opener Thursday, fans will begin to have questions answered and will be able to say, “It’s time for some football.” HUSKER is a sports reporter.
SKATE continued from B1 “Last year and the year before we showed up for the big games, but it is the little games that we kind of laid off on, and this year, preparation for every single game like it’s a championship game is something we are going to do.” Sherry also talked about the importance of the fan base to the Liberty lost in hockey team, and said the round of having good fans is 16 to Ohio similar to having anUniversity in other player out on the the ACHA ice. Sherry said he is looking forward to the tourney. fans and the game atmosphere this season. “We had a couple months off in the summer and when you are away from it, you miss it,” Sherry said. Travis Briggs, a Liberty University student and avid hockey fan shared his thoughts about the fan side of the game experience. Briggs described hockey games as an event he looks forward to going to every week with his friends. “We like to get the good seats, which is the standing room behind the visitors’ bench,” Briggs said. “(There are) a ton of people … (and) it’s such an exciting sport to watch (because) the game is always moving and you never know what is going to happen next.” There will be many different special events and promotions organized by the Hockey Club this season, such as $2 coupons — which will be available through the Hockey Club’s Facebook page and Twitter account — food drive nights and prize giveaways during games, according to Club Sports Marketing Coordinator Caroline Schafer from Campus Recreation Facilities. More information and updates about the team can be found on the team’s Facebook page (Liberty University Men’s Hockey) and twitter account (@LibertyHockey).
FYI
Jake Mitchell | Liberty Champion
NO MATCH — The Lady Flames continue to dominate against tough competition.
GOALS continued from B1 “It was nice to actually score and get my name in there, because last year I had two goals all season,” Jones said. “So it was good to start it off well.” Flames redshirt senior goalkeeper Ann Jefferis starred in goal after sitting the 2012 season out to focus on her nursing studies, according to Head Coach Jodi Mitchell. She won the starting job from Mallory Cuccio, who went 10-2 in the second half of the season last year. Jefferis had four saves on the afternoon and was only seriously tested a couple of times. The outcome was never in doubt after the Lady Flames (1-0) notched the first goal of the contest on a penalty stroke from Jones 10:14 into the first half. Krulock then gave the Lady Flames, a 2-0 edge with 6:20 left in the half, rocketing one past Hawks keeper Rachel Barnett a crossing pass from Barr. The second half began with St. Joseph’s (0-1) controlling possession for a few minutes, but from then on it was all Lady Flames, who fired nine shots on goal in the half. Barr, who led the team in goals and assists in 2012, tallied her first goal of the year on a pass from fellow co-captain Helen Doolittle to give the Lady Flames a 3-0 lead. Despite a valiant effort from the Lady Hawks’ Barnett, she couldn’t hold
off a barrage of Lady Flames shots, eventually letting in a fourth goal — a Jones deflection off a shot from Barr. “It’s just great having that feeling of scoring it on your home turf, and it’s just great coming off on a win — and a convincing win — in our first home game,” Barr said. “And we’re just really hoping to move on and upwards and (having) this just be the start of our season, and that we continue to keep scoring goals and keep having shutouts.” With their victory against the Hawks, Liberty won its first season opener in the teams history “To come out on top (against St. Joseph’s) really does give us confidence going into our trip out West,” Murphy said. “And those are two teams that we’ve never played before, so it’ll be a test.” Two of last season’s top three leading scorers, Sarah Gipe and Abbey Basom, sat out against St. Joseph’s with injuries. According to Murphy, sophomore Abbey Basom is expected to be back in the lineup next week, while sophomore Sarah Gipe is out indefinitely. The Lady Flames will make the journey out West next week to take on UC Davis and California Sept. 6 and 8. Their next home game will be a Sept. 27 date with St. Louis. TICHENOR is a sports reporter.
TELLERS is a sports reporter.
FEATURE
SEPTEMBER 3, 2013
Liberty Champion/ B5
Students plan getaway to Lynchburg trails The James River Heritage Trail system provides students with a necessary vacation from campus life
Sara Warrender sewarrender2@liberty.edu Denisha Benson ddbenson@liberty.edu
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Lynchburg has many different trails to choose from when students feel the need to escape campus life for an afternoon. “Lynchburg may not have the best places to shop, but (there are) tons of places to hike,” Liberty University sophomore Zach Dale said. “Honestly, all you have to do is start driving. You’ll always find somewhere to go exploring.” Lynchburg is home to the James River Heritage Trail system. According to lynchburgva. gov, this trail system is composed of Blackwater Creek Bikeway, Riverwalk, the Ivy Creek Greenway, the Ruskin Freer Loop Trail, the Alpine Trail, Point of Honor Trail and the Creekside Trail. One hiking option is the Blackwater Creek Bikeway, which is located in downtown Lynchburg and is approximately three miles. This trail was built along an abandoned railway bed, according to visitlynchburg.org. An Awareness Garden is located at the Ed Page entrance of the trail, and it is dedicated to those battling cancer. This entrance can be accessed by Old Langhorne Road in Lynchburg. Throughout the Blackwater Creek Bikeway are many unpaved bike trails for those who are a bit more adventurous. These trails are spotted with steep hills and bring bikers close to the James River. “I love Riverwalk because it is calm, especially downtown in the midst of the city’s hustle,” senior Paige Hargett said. “It is simple enough to go out to eat with friends and then stroll on the Riverwalk to enjoy scenery. It is also versatile in the sense that I can do different workout routines like biking or running.” According to lynchburgva.gov, Riverwalk is a 3.5-mile, paved trail and is the most popular section of Lynchburg’s trail system. It begins downtown on Jefferson Street and allows visitors to bike, run or walk along trails and bridges. The trail crosses through downtown Lynchburg and allows users easy access to the town’s diners or other attractions. “Lynchburg has a lot of different parks too,” Dale said. “Outof-town students should spend some time visiting the parks in the area, because they are often really well-kept and offer many different options to keep you busy. It’s a great way for me to
Courtney Russo| Liberty Champion
BLACKWATER CREEK BIKEWAY — An Awareness Garden, mountain bike trails and paved walking trails await visitors downtown. forget about school for the afternoon.” Peaks View Park is a local park with entrances located at Ardmore Drive, Tenbury Drive and Ivy Creek Lane in Lynchburg. According to lynchburgva.gov, Peaks View Park is the secondlargest park in Lynchburg, with three tennis courts, seven multipurpose fields, a volleyball court, a basketball court and a disc golf course. According to lynchburgva. gov, Ivy Creek Greenway is a paved trail that runs through the center of the park. Other paved trails are scattered throughout the park, which allow visitors to explore the area. Mountain bike trails are also available, along with playgrounds and multiple picnic spots for those looking for an all-day visit. For students who want to stay on campus and enjoy some scenery after classes, the Liberty Mountain Trail System offers 65 miles of single and doubletrack trails according to liberty. edu. These trails are located on approximately 5,000 acres along the mountain, which rises over 1,360 feet. The distance and
Courtney Russo| Liberty Champion
RISING HIGH — Several different bridges are featured on Blackwater Creek Bikeway. height provide visitors with chalAccording to liberty.edu, dilenging hiking and biking trails rectional signs, map kiosks and to explore. safety signs offer clear directions WARRENDER is the feature “I enjoy being able to sponta- to users. neously run to a nearby trail on Trails in Lynchburg, including editor. Liberty’s campus,” junior Julia Liberty’s trails, are open during BENSON is a feature Massimilla said. daylight hours. reporter.
Student Activities hosts Outdoor Movie Night Students crowded the field behind Dorm 28 for a double feature that included “42” and “The Sandlot”
Ashley Bunner abunner@liberty.edu
Liberty students gathered under the stars Friday night to enjoy the Outdoor Movie Night hosted by Student Activities (SA) Aug. 30. Students camped out on blankets with their friends in the field behind Dorm 28 to view the baseball-themed movies, which included “42” and “The Sandlot.” Abigail McWaters, SA member, estimated that there were at least 1,000 students in attendance. SA hosts different themed movie nights and other activities to help students bond throughout the school year. “Tonight, we chose a baseball theme,” Blake Gederberg, a member of SA, said. “We picked a baseball movie that was relevant and then one that was a throwback.” Liberty student Emily Roop
Jill Springer| Liberty Champion
Concession stands offered theater candy, soda and water. Free popcorn, peanuts and Cracker Jack were also available at the concession stands to add to the overall theme of the event. McWaters said that SA was pleased with the outcome of the outdoor movie night. “(We had a) really good outcome for both movies,” McWaters said. “We didn’t lose the crowd for ‘The Sandlot.’” According to Gederberg, SA is going for a darker theme for the next outdoor movie night and will be showing “World War Z” Sept. 13 at the Dorm 28 field. For more information about SA and future events, visit liberty.edu/studentactivities.
MOVIE NIGHT — At least 1,000 students came to watch the baseball-themed movies. said she was excited for the movie choices. “Considering how the campus hype is about our Division 1 athletics and the upcoming baseball
season, I think it was not only a good relaxer for the students but a good lead into the upcoming baseball season,” Roop said. Roop also noted that the loca-
tion proved to be convenient for many students. “I liked that it was an easy walk from my dorm (Dorm 16),” Alyssa Carlie said.
BUNNER is a feature reporter.
FEATURE
SEPTEMBER 3, 2013
Liberty Champion/ B6
COACH continued from B8 one year by both the NCAA and the Association for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women. Following her college career, Richardson represented Team USA in the 1996 Olympic Games, the first time softball had ever been played at the games. In the first game, Richardson recorded the first-ever American hit, run and home run. In the gold medal game, Richardson hit the game-winning home run. Richardson described the emotions she experienced as her gold-medal team was recognized. “As we all were standing on the gold-medal podium with Olympic gold medals put around (our) necks for the first time, representing (our) sport in the history of the games, knowing that (we were) in the biggest athletic moment of our lives … I felt so small,” Richardson said. “The only way I can explain it is I felt this overwhelming sense of humility that we were chosen. We were the chosen 15 to represent all who’d ever dreamt of it, all who were deserving before us but never given the opportunity.” Richardson also won a gold medal in the 2000 Olympic Games and is a 16-time Amateur Softball Association of America (ASA) All-American. She was inducted into the ASA Hall of Fame in 2006. Richardson credits God for leading her to accomplish the things she did. “To have the spiritual awareness to say, wait a minute, I don’t have to disguise who I am, none of us do,” Richardson said. “We
Joel Coleman | Marketing
INSPIRATION — Richardson, Liberty’s new head softball coach, has won two Olympic gold medals. are born for a certain reason and a purpose and to glorify the Lord through the gifts we’ve been given. And I knew it and I trusted it. I believed it. And as I just started going where he led me, next thing you know, I’m standing on an Olympic gold medal podium, receiving that Olympic gold medal on behalf of the United States of America.” In addition to all of her accomplishments on the softball field, Richardson has an undergraduate degree in kinesiology from UCLA, a master’s degree in exercise physiology/ health. She also earned an M.D. from Louisville and was an orthopedic surgeon. The softball legend said she believes that softball, as well as the other sports she played, prepared her for her work in medicine.
She said that skills such as the ability to concentrate, be mentally tough, set goals and achieve them and work with a team aided her in the field. “When you get into the health field and realize you can give of yourself to serve others in that way — to help them through injury, through disease … (and) just get them back to a situation where they can be out of pain and pursue their lives in a functional way, to me, I just thought it was awesome,” Richardson said. Additionally, Richardson is a motivational speaker associated with the Washington Speakers Bureau. She has also authored two books, entitiled “Go For It! A Conversation About Being You!” and “Living The Dream: The Dot Richard-
son Story.” Richardson has also used her talents in the field of softball as the National Training Center softball director. She currently serves as board chair for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes softball ministry as well. As Liberty’s new head coach, Richardson said she hopes to raise awareness for the team around campus and in the community. She will also utilize her experience to accomplish her ultimate goal for the Lady Flames — to shape physically, mentally and spiritually tough players — and looks to continue to glorify God in softball. “When you have a university from the top level — the chancellor — down who is committed to excellence for (God’s) glory …
Liberty News
VICTORY — Richardson represented Team USA. there’s no way that you’re not gonna win,” Richardson said. “The victory is not by wins and losses, but it’s about how much recogni-
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
tion we can give to the Lord by what we do, and sports is a great way to do that.” Brown is a copy editor.
FEATURE
SEPTEMBER 3, 2013
Liberty Champion/ B7
Student takes internship in Kenya
Kristen Sullivan finds her passion in missions while continuing to study through Liberty Online classes Nicole Steenburgh nksteenburgh@liberty.edu
Kristen Sullivan, a senior with Liberty University Online, has decided to follow her passion for missions by serving the country of Kenya. She is currently living in Johannesburg, South Africa, but she started the path that the Lord laid on her heart a long time ago. Sullivan is currently studying international business with a minor in intercultural studies, but according to her, a missions trip to Tijuana, Mexico when she was 11 convinced her that she would somehow be involved in missions. Since then, Sullivan said she has had a passion for missions and knows that the Lord is calling her to the mission field and to specifically minister through business. By March 2012, Sullivan had already made the decision to move to Johannesburg, but plans began to change when she met Jannekah and Martin Guya, who live in Kenya. They joked with her about living with them in Kenya, but with plans already in place, Sullivan declined. However, she soon found herself asking the Guyas if she could live with them for a little while. After a brief stay in Kenya, Sullivan moved to her current location of Johannesburg. After learning about Liberty through her older sister, Sullivan is enrolled
in online classes to fulfill her callings through Liberty. She is now in the midst of online classes while she fulfills her internship duties in South Africa. Sullivan said that learning time management and balancing all of her responsibilities can be quite challenging. “I can’t do school and reach out to the people every day without the Lord,” Sullivan said. “It has been really good. It is teaching me to rely on the Lord. He is my strength.” Sullivan is interning with a nonprofit organization called Impact Africa, an organization she learned about through Teen Mania. “Impact Africa endeavors to motivate, train and equip the body of Christ while facilitating outreach opportunities that deeply impact participants and the nations for the Lord,” according to the organization’s website. Sullivan said she is involved with a Bible study on Tuesdays and Fridays where she helps lead the worship time and is on a rotation for teaching the lessons. On Friday mornings, Sullivan helps in the Impact Africa preschools where children, ages two – six can participate in activities and crafts, hear Bible stories and learn English. And two – three times a week she is involved in a form of street evangelism. “We visit the squatter camps and go house to
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HOMETOWN — Sullivan has called Kenya her temporary home since her arrival in 2012. house, talking to people and sharing the gospel,” Sullivan said. Because she is so busy, Sullivan must schedule rest time, during which she enjoys volleyball, movies, and catching up with friends and family who are back in the United States. Sullivan’s internship ends December 2013, and, in the meantime, she is praying and seeking counsel for the next step in her life. “The Lord is just so good,” Sullivan said. “I have seen things I never Photo Provided dreamt I’d see, and I’ve HOMETOWN — Sullivan has called Kenya her temporary home since her arrival. enjoyed every minute of it, seeing how much God her heart to Kenya, where know and see the love of STEENBURGH is a loves the world and the she would like to spend at Christ,” Sullivan said. “It’s feature reporter. people.” least a couple years learn- not anything Kristen has. Sullivan said she can ing the culture. It’s all God.” sense the Lord directing “People really need to
Offering advice to freshmen Melissa Skinner mjskinner@liberty.edu
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CASTING CALL — The 65 cast and crew members form the largest crew ever to take Liberty’s stage.
Theatre Arts season begins Katey Roshetko kroshetko@liberty.edu
Director Linda Cooper has been preparing 65 cast and crew members — the largest cast to ever take the Tower Theater stage — for Liberty University’s first performance of the semester, Les Misérables, which opens Sept. 13. The show, described by Cooper as a “beautiful piece of literature,” follows the life of the criminal inmate Jean Valjean, who is finally released after 19 years of prison. When he realizes that he will never be free as long as he remains Valjean, he flees parole and attempts to create a whole new life for himself. Unfortunately, his past always seems to find him in the form of his pervasive parole officer Javert. “I think (the audience) will be surprised,” Cooper said. “The movie does what it is supposed to do (and has) those wonderful closeups and those intimate moments. But then the stage show does what it’s supposed to do, which (is to) have the feeling of epic grandeur from the large ensemble numbers. The power of the music comes through on the stage.” According to its mission state-
ment, Alluvion prides itself on producing professional, familyfriendly theater. However, Les Misérables does contain some suggestive content that may not be suitable for young children. In contrast to the very graphic violence and sexuality in the most recent film version, Cooper said the audience will not feel uncomfortable in any way. Of the 50 actors in the playbill, most are not strangers to the Tower Theater. Veterans who are starring in the show include Taamu Wuya (Jean Valjean), Timmy Williamson (Javert), Kelli Overmyer (Fantine) and Sarah Seaman (Eponine). “It has been an absolute blessing playing such a wonderfully captivating character such as Valjean,” Wuya said. “The range of scope on this is truly a powerful testimony, and I am excited for people to witness his extraordinary journey of redemption and grace.” Alluvion Stage Company shows differ from other Liberty shows because they provide the cast and crew with professional credit, which, according to Cooper, is a rare opportunity for theatre students. “This cast has been phenomenal to work with,” Cooper said. “As a director, I just hope I’ve cast
them in places where they can shine. I don’t have to push, and I don’t have to pull. I just allow them to be.” Wuya also expressed his gratitude toward Alluvion. “Alluvion has definitely been an amazing experience for every student and (alumni) to be a part of,” Wuya said. “It has benefited me in the fact that I am getting the professional experience as an actor … and that experience gives you an edge when you audition for other professional theater companies because you know exactly what is expected of you.” The show will run Sept. 13Oct. 20. Ticket prices range from $5-$20 with special discounts for Liberty students, seniors, military members and children under 12 years old. Tickets can be purchased online atticketreturn.com or by calling 1-434-582-SEAT or visiting the box office outside the Vines Center. ROSHETKO is a feature reporter.
As a new Liberty University freshman class begins its fouryear college journey, alumni and faculty offer insight that will encourage and motivate freshmen to make the best of their college experience. Alumna Amie Graham earned a Bachelor of Science in government in 2005 and an MBA in 2007. Graham currently works as an administrator in higher education at Christopher Newport University. On a daily basis she oversees alumni relations, the events department and special projects for the president’s office. “Liberty helped me realize the potential of the gifts God has given me in leadership, administration and service,” Graham said. “I had many opportunities to serve through student organizations and develop my creative and organizational skills absolutely necessary to my current line of work.” Before she reached this point in her life, Graham was a student experiencing all Liberty has to offer. “Some of my favorite memories as a student are sledding down the hill on cafeteria trays and dorm mattresses, trips to Panther Falls with my brother dorm, playing touch football in the rain, getting stained with red clay ... dress-up themed hall meetings and writing my name in the concrete on East Campus,” Graham said. Graham also encouraged new students to try as many things as they can while at Liberty. “Go to one of the Coffee-
houses and see your awesome classmates perform. Go to a hockey game. Make custom T-shirts for the homecoming football game. Read quietly in the garden beside the Prayer Chapel ... ,” Graham said. “As much as college is about your classes, it is also about growing socially and spiritually.” Department Chair of Digital Media and Communication Arts Bruce Kirk offered some academic advice for students. “Time management is key — learning to juggle the clock and be productive at the same time,” Kirk said. “For example, if you have This year’s an hour between freshman c l a s s e s , class is the use that largest first- time to are year class pforr e pyour in Liberty’s next class or review history. n o t e s from a previous class. It is also a good time to be doing some homework while something is fresh from the last class.” Cassie Laminack, a senior exercise science major, encouraged freshmen to realize how blessed they are to attend Liberty. “Foundations for life will be established … on (Liberty) Mountain, and you should grab a hold of that,” Laminack said. “How diligent you are now builds a foundation for the future.”
FYI
SKINNER is a feature reporter.
FEATURE
SEPTEMBER 3, 2013
B8
Students visit 2013 World Wide Welcome OISS’ event Friday introduced international students to different clubs and positions within Liberty Sara Warrender sewarrender2@liberty.edu
The Office of International Student Services (OISS) kicked off its semester of events amid a colorful array of flags from around the world with the 2013 World Wide Welcome Aug. 30. Many international clubs were represented at the event, as well as Liberty University departments, such as the School of Business and the School of Communication and Creative Arts. “I thought we needed to bring new students and mix them up with the current students,” Dr. William Wegert, dean of international student programs, said. “That’s what this is all about.” According to Wegert, the founder of the event, World Wide Welcome was created 11 years ago and offers live music, games and information for students. “This is an event for different department heads … and groups and to show our international students what we have to offer so that they know they can be a part of it,” Carrie Brown, international admissions specialist, said. Students enjoyed Niboneras, a group of three brothers from the Republic of Congo, who performed live on the steps of DeMoss Hall, as well as other activities such as sidewalk chalk art, hair braiding, face painting, cornhole games and Henna tattoos. According to Brown, there are more than 900 international students on Liberty’s campus representing more than 70 different countries. “We’re always trying to get more (international students),” Brown said. “We would love it if we had 300 countries represented. We’re always trying to grow ... and the International Student Center is one of the departments
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HERITAGE — Niboneras is a band of three brothers. that fosters the different cultures here at Liberty.” According to Nkechi Ilo, president of the Association of Students of African Descent (ASAD), the event gave students a chance to connect before the stress of the semester caused students to become too busy. Some of the clubs represented at the event were ASAD, Korean Fellowship Group, Nations United, Spanish Club and Stand with Israel. “I feel like this is a very good gathering, like an awesome thing … to bring international students together,” Ilo said. According to Ilo, ASAD had 14 new members join their club during the event. “It’s not you just getting a whole bunch of information, but it’s like you’re
actually building a relationship,” junior Brandyce Savoy said. During the World Wide Welcome event, students also competed for various prizes offered by OISS. Groups of three students were invited to step up to a microphone to recite “hello” in as many different languages as they could. Students were also invited to announce how many countries they have visited and sing their countries’ national anthems. Students also enjoyed food provided by Sodexo. “(The event) provides an open environment, and the fact that you have all the different races and ethnic backgrounds together is kind of like there’s no pressure on it,” Savoy said. “It’s just open and homey.” Some students dressed
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HENNA — Nissy Bandari gives students temporary tattoos. in their country’s traditional attire, smiling and taking pictures with other students. The chalk art also drew attention, as students filled the sidewalk with drawings of their home country’s flag. According to Brown,
there are several events offered by the International Student Center this semester, including trips to Washington, D.C. and Busch Gardens, a Canadian Thanksgiving dinner and several open houses to celebrate different countries.
For more information on upcoming trips or events offered by the International Student Center, email intlstucenter@ liberty.edu. WARRENDER is the feature editor.
Two-time Olympic gold medalist leads softball Emily Brown erbrown@liberty.edu
Each semester, Liberty University invites well-known and influential Christians, such as actor Kirk Cameron, Duck Dynasty star Willie Robertson and author Jon Acuff, to campus. However, Dot Richardson, a celebrity in the field of softball, will stay at the university for more than just one day, as she was named the new head coach of the Lady Flames softball team in July. Although Richardson brings with her a long list of accolades, she is most known for being a two-time Olympic gold medalist. Long before Richardson stepped up to the gold-medal podium, however, she knew she had unique talents. Though she is most known for softball, Richardson also played soccer, volleyball, basketball, softball, track and field and tennis. “When I was a little girl, I knew that God had given me a gift in athletics,” Richardson said. Richardson’s ascent through the ranks of amateur sports began at a little-league baseball game when she was 10 years old. Because Title IX — a law prohibiting gender discrimination in federally-funded programs, according to titleix.info — had not yet been passed, Richardson was not playing on the field, but was only breaking in her brother’s catcher’s glove prior to the
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PRACTICE — Liberty’s new coach knew early in life that God gifted her athletically. game. When a coach asked Richardson to play on his little league team, she declined because she would have had to disguise herself as a boy.
According to Richardson, her softball career began to take off at that point. Only 30 minutes after the previous offer, the 10-year-old Richardson accepted a chance
to play on a Class-A, fast-pitch softball team, on which the average player was 22 years old. “I felt that I had the gift of being an athlete and the skills with it and the desire and the passion, but also my parents recognized it, and they said yes for me playing at 10 years of age with a women’s team basically,” Richardson said. Richardson then became the youngest person to ever play women’s major fastpitch softball at the age of 13. When she was 15 years old, Richardson was drafted into the professional league, but chose to pursue her education instead. Richardson also participated and won a gold medal in the first-ever softball Pan American Games when she was 17. She has won four additional Pan American Games gold medals and five World Championship gold medals as well. In college, Richardson led the nation with a .480 batting average as a freshman at Western Illinois University (WIU) before transferring to the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA), where her team won the first NCAA softball championship. Additionally, Richardson was a fivetime All-American during her collegiate years. The NCAA recognized her three times while she was at UCLA and once at WIU. After transferring, Richardson was recognized
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