The Grove City College Newspaper

March 27, 2009 Missionary kids tellabout their lives

Page 12

Campus worships,Sigs enjoy madness

Pages 10-11

The

CollegianVol. 69 No. 18

Ryan BriggsSenior Caleb Courage set a new NCAA record in the 100-meter freestyle at the NCAA DivisionIII championships last week. Courage concludes his Grove City swimming career as a three-timenational champion in that event, and has received 18 All-American honors. Full story on page 20.

Wolverines swim into sixthDebatefinishesstrong

Collegestands

firmBy Jimmy Van EerdenCollegian Writer

“Grove City College has enteredthe new sphere of inter-collegiateactivity. Although the decisionwent to our opponents, [the] GroveCity men feel that in reality theyhave won a greater victory for thecollege … if present indicationsforetell anything, Grove CityCollege must be reckoned with inthe future in inter-collegiate debat-ing.”

The April 4, 1913, edition of TheCollegian opened with these wordsafter the inception of Grove CityCollege inter-collegiate debate

By Sarah Beth GrossCollegian Managing Editor

Although the recent economicrecession seems to affect everyaspect of daily life, one area inwhich the economy’s impact hasbeen deterred is the operation ofGrove City College.

One reason that the College isnot significantly affected by theeconomic troubles stems fromthe fact that the College does notaccept federal funding.

“We do not take federal orstate monies. Thousands andthousands of other colleges anduniversities do. As a result of

See Economy, page 4See Debate, page 5

Scholar visits for writers conferenceBy Darin MillerCollegian Editor-in-Chief

Yesterday, poet Dr. ScottCairns spoke on the Grove CityCollege campus and attendedclasses during this year’sChristian Writers Conference.The conference is sponsored bythe English department and theLambda Iota Tau literary honorsociety.

According to Dr. AndrewHarvey, associate professor ofEnglish, the conference is “anannual event designed to pro-vide a forum for exploring therelationship between literatureand the Christian faith.”

Past conferences havefocused on writers such asDorothy L. Sayers and ideaslike Christianity and postmod-ernism. Last year’s conferencewas held in conjunction withthe C.S. Lewis and InklingsSociety’s international confer-ence.

“The department wanted toget the biggest poet we couldfind,” Harvey said, “and Dr.[Eric] Potter recommendedCairns, whom he met a fewyears ago.”

Potter, professor of English,met Cairns in the spring of2002 at Calvin College’s bi-annual “Festival of Faith &

Writing.”“I was delivering a paper on

recent books by three contem-porary American poets: StephenDunn, Mark Jarman and ScottCairns,” Potter said.

He said that the conferencecall for papers had encouragedpresenters to focus on work byauthors who were attending theconference. Dunn and Cairnswere both there.

“As I began reading mypaper, I realized that Cairnswas in the audience,” Pottersaid. “It was a bit disconcert-ing, but I forged ahead.Afterwards, he introduced him-self and was very gracious

about what I had said. I havebeen following his work eversince.”

Cairns was scheduled todeliver the chapel homily, lec-ture at 4 p.m. in the Rare BookRoom in Henry Buhl Libraryand read selections of his poet-ry aloud – with a question andanswer session afterward – at 7p.m. in Sticht Lecture Hall inthe Hall of Arts and Letters.

Additionally, Cairns plannedto visit a creative writing classand have lunch with theOrthodox Christian Fellowship,an on-campus ministry group.Cairns is Orthodox.

The conference’s theme was

“Leaning into Poetry andPrayer with Scott Cairns,” andCairns’ chapel lecture wasappropriately named “TwoGifts: Vocation and Prayer.”

Cairns is an accomplishedpoet, scholar and teacher. He iscurrently a professor of Englishand director of the creativewriting program at theUniversity of Missouri. He haswritten numerous books ofpoetry, including his two mostrecent works, “Compass ofAffection” and a collection ofpoetic translations of Christianmystics called “Love’s

See Conference, page 2

Speaker to address youth in crisisCharles Wiley, a speak-

er with Accuracy InMedia and experiencedinternational journalistand war correspondent,will present “ModernYouth In a Time ofEconomic Crisis” at 7p.m. March 31 in the PewFine Arts Center RecitalHall at Grove CityCollege.

The lecture is sponsored by theMarriage and Family Working Group ofThe Center for Vision & Values at Grove

City College and is freeand open to the public.

Wiley, known as adynamic and captivatingspeaker, has lecturednationwide and on fivecontinents.

He has reported from100 countries and cov-ered 11 wars, includingfour terms in Vietnam.

He reported for NBC, UPI, the“London Express” and numerous otherU.S. and foreign news media.

His tenacity led to his arrest eight

times by secret police, including theKGB, and imprisonment in a Cuban dun-geon while he was a correspondent forNew York City radio station WOR.

He went into Afghanistan with themujahideen during the war against theSoviet Union.

Later during a tour of Kosovo, his vis-its to troops from many nations includedthe Russian 13th Tactical Group.

Among his accomplishments, Wileyhelped establish guidelines for a freepress in Mongolia, was a speaker forthe White House Public OutreachGroup and lectured in New Zealand at

the Civil Defence Academy. He frequently addresses military

audiences in the U.S. and abroad, aswell as colleges and high schools.

A graduate of New York University,his freelance articles and photographshave appeared in numerous publica-tions, including the “New York Times,”‘U.S. News & World Report,”“Newsweek,” “National Review” and“Time.”

He has appeared on hundreds of net-work and local programs, includingmany times on CNN’s “Crossfire” andC-SPAN.

Renowned journalist Charles Wiley arrives on campus this week

Charles Wiley

News2 The CollegianMarch 27, 2009

Immensity: Mystics on theEndless Life.” He also published anon-fiction spiritual memoir onhis journey to Mt. Athos called“Short Trip to the Edge: WhereEarth Meets Heaven a

Pilgrimage.” All three titles are currently on sale in the College’sbookstore.

Cairns is a decorated scholar, having earned his B.A. fromWestern Washington University, his M.A. from Hollins College,his M.F.A from Bowling Green State University and his Ph.D.from the University of Utah. In 2006 he was a GuggenheimFellow. He has also taught at Kansas State University,Westminster College, the University of North Texas and OldDominion University. He lives in Columbia, Mo., with his wife,Marcia, and their two children.

Conferencefrom page 1

columbiamissourian.comDr. Scott Cairns

Home is ideal placeBy Luke WhippleContributing Writer

Approach any student onGrove City’s campus and askthem what they will be doingfor their upcoming break andtheir answer may not be similarto those you would find onother campuses – but they willbe the same.

Turning their heads away,with a grin and slight blush,they will say they are doingnothing of importance.

When confronted with thisquestion, sophomore DavidJanssen responded in the typi-cal fashion, “My answer is kindof boring, so, if you just wantmy vote, it’s that I’m goinghome to see my family.”

The week-long break that theCollege holds over Easter weekis the equivalent to the “springbreak” that is observed by col-leges and universities acrossthe United States in the weeksbetween March and early April.

The stereotype for thosespring breaks is the image ofcollege students, in the mil-lions, flocking down to thewarm beaches in Florida, Texasand Mexico.

Grove City students, howev-er, give into a different sort ofstereotype.

In an impromptu survey of150 students, the overwhelmingmajority admitted that they will

be going home with the inten-tion of spending time with theirfamilies.

The second highest responsewas from students who wereparticipating in one of themany ICOs that are going toperform mission-related workin different parts of the countryand around the world.

Only one student respondedby saying that he will be takinga trip away from home that isnot related to the college.

In the minds of many stu-dents, it is the family that mat-ters most.

Echoing these sentiments,freshman Tyler Crumrine said,“I value quality time with myfamily and have really beenlooking forward to seeing themagain after a long semester.”

This probably comes with lit-tle surprise to anyone on thiscampus.

Grove City is known for hav-ing students with strong famil-ial ties and a campus culturemuch different than the typicalschool.

After several weeks of relent-less work, exams and papers, aweek away at home soundsvery tempting to the averageGrover.

“Usually, I just hang out athome,” said senior MeganJones. “It’s mostly becauseschool is so hectic and it’s niceto spend a day or so on the

couch.” The most surprising result of

asking students their plans forbreak was their abashed naturein admitting that they wereonly going home.

Students seem to believe thatspring break is expected to be atime of grandiose trips andDionysian living.

The great majority, however,will ultimately acknowledgethat home is the place theywould much rather be.

Junior Abigail Van Patter,who is hosting several friendsat her house in North Carolinaover the break, said, “I gohome every Easter break. Theshort breaks I stay up north, butI love spending Easter with myfamily at my home church.

“I think it’s important thatgood friends see where eachother are from. It tells a lotabout people to meet their fam-ily.”

If you are a part of the silentand inconspicuous majority thatwill be happily spending yourbreak at home, realize that youare not alone.

Spring break, for most stu-dents, is not spent on thebeach’s hot sand but in thefamily’s living room.

“This is my first collegespring break,” said freshmanDavid Cole, “but I’ll probablydo the same thing in the future– Easter at my house.”

Vision and values conference discussedBy Sean MorrisCollegian Writer

“Advancing freedom withChristian scholarship,” is the slo-gan of Grove City College’s ownCenter for Vision and Values, apolitical-think tank started inApril of 2005 that seeks to“encourage and support GroveCity College faculty and kindredscholars in faith and freedomscholarship and to teach theirideas to students, parents, thebusiness community, the Church,educators and public policy influ-encers in the U.S. and throughoutthe world via personal interactionand electronic communication,”according to its website.

The many outlets for the Centerinclude radio interviews, place-ments of opinion editorials innewspapers, events such as theannual Ronald Reagan Lectureseries, the frequent FreedomReaders Economic Seminars andtelevision appearances, many ofwhich were national includingFOX and C-Span.

According to the website, theCenter’s earned media value – theequivalent cost of advertising pur-chases – in 2004 was worth morethan $4,000,000.

But the Center’s flagship event

is its national conference thattakes place in mid-April.

This year’s conference, sched-uled for April 16-17, has thetheme “Faith, Freedom, andHigher Education.”

The line-up of speakers for theconference includes D.G. Hart,director of academic programs atthe Intercollegiate StudiesInstitute in Wilmington, Delawareand the previous dean of academ-ic affairs and professor of churchhistory at WestminsterTheological Seminary inCalifornia; author of “A SecularFaith: Why Christianity Favorsthe Separation of Church andState” George Marsden, author ofseveral books and professor ofhistory at the University of NotreDame, whose primary academicinterests have concernedAmerican evangelicalism and therole of Christianity in Americanhigher education will be present.

The conference also includesNaomi Schaefer Riley, the deputytaste editor of the Wall StreetJournal and author of the book,“God on the Quad: HowReligious Colleges and theMissionary Generation AreChanging America.”

Michael Medved, the a nation-ally syndicated radio talk showhost, best-selling author, and vet-

eran film critic will speak.Walter Williams, Professor of

economics at George MasonUniversity and a nationally syndi-cated columnist will also be pres-ent, among many others.

In addition, a line-up of GroveCity’s own acclaimed faculty willbe delivering papers and conduct-ing sessions related to their ownfields of expertise during the con-ference.

The sessions of the conferencewill be delving into the nature ofhigher education, what highereducation truly means, its impacton America, the contributions andinfluence of the Christianity, andthe future of higher education inlight of tumultuous times and thedeath of academia.

Students of the College are ableand encouraged to attend the con-ference for a one-credit coursethis spring.

The deadline to enroll is today.Of course, students are welcometo attend the conference even ifthey are not enrolled. Full detailsand schedule of lectures can befound at the conference website.Executive Director of the Center

for Vision and Values, Paul G.Kengor, Ph.D. provided TheCollegian with a Q&A sessionregarding matters related to theconference.

Collegian: The mission of thecenter is “advancing Freedomwith Christian Scholarship”, butwhat is the particular mission ofthis conference?

Kengor: Same thing. The goalof the conference is to advancethat mission, to celebrate thatmission, and to look at how andwhere that mission has been lostin most of modern higher educa-tion. We will be taking a long,careful look at the history ofhigher education in America,from the founding of the republicthrough the start of the universitysystem, up through the progres-sive movement, and into moderntimes.

American higher educationtoday is obviously quite differentfrom early in the last century.Certainly, the respect for faith isnot there among our dominantuniversities. “Freedom” in themodern college is too often inter-preted as license, totally divorcedfrom the traditional moorings offaith. Freedom without faith isdisastrous. Freedom and faith aretwo halves of a whole. A centralreason for the destructive, oftenchaotic imbalance of the modernuniversity is the removal of thatcore faith component. Grove CityCollege has not made that mis-take, praise God. This conference,

not coincidentally, will occur onthe 25th anniversary of theCollege’s historic court case.

Collegian: Is there any one par-ticular panel/session that you aremost looking forward to?

Kengor: Not in particular, butI would highlight some of ourheadliners: Walter Williams is oneof our keynote speakers, andGeorge Nash is the other.Williams is, of course, therenowned, popular economist.George Nash is a superb scholarof conservatism, who will bedoing a retrospective of WilliamF. Buckley Jr.’s “God and Man atYale.” Of course, GeorgeMarsden is kicking off the confer-ence. Marsden is really the topperson in the country on matterslike the role of the Christian inmodern education, and so muchmore. We will also have NaomiSchaefer Riley of the Wall StreetJournal, who wrote the importantbook, “God on the Quad.”

Collegian: With current eco-nomic troubles and academicdependability in decline in ournation and the world, how impor-tant do you see the mission of thisconference, the Center, and GroveCity College in general?

Kengor: More important than

See Vision, page 6

News 3The CollegianMarch 27, 2009

Dr. Derek Thomas, ReformedTheological Seminary professorand minister with First PresbyterianChurch in Jackson, Miss., will visitGrove City College March 30-31as a speaker for the second annualGrove City College EvangelicalScholarship Conference.

Originally from Wales, Thomas isthe John E. Richards Professor ofSystematic and Practical Theologyat Reformed Theological Seminary,Jackson, Miss. After pastoring for17 years in Belfast, NorthernIreland, Thomas came to the UnitedStates in 1996 where, in addition tohis work at the seminary, he serves

as the minister of teaching at FirstPresbyterian Church.

Thomas is a 1978 graduate ofReformed Theological Seminaryand received a Ph.D. from theUniversity of Wales, Lampeter, inCalvin’s preaching on the book ofJob. He has written or edited 15books and is currently the editorialdirector for the Alliance ofConfessing Evangelicals.

The two-day schedule of publicevents includes a concert by theGrove City College String Quartetand two services in HarbisonChapel. The schedule is as follows:

March 30: 4:15 p.m.: Grove

City College String Quartet con-cert, Parker Organ Studio, PewFine Arts Center; 7 p.m.: Worshipservice, “It’s All About God’sGlory” from Romans 11; March31: 9:30 a.m.: Chapel service,“Life Under the Cross” from 1Peter 4:12-19.

Now in its second year, the con-ference is sponsored by the StudentGovernment Association and theCollege’s religion department. Thegoal is to celebrate the Reformationand the Gospel. The theme thisyear is the life and work of JohnCalvin. For more information, visitwww.evangelicalconference.org.

Prizes up for grabs in final days of Bon Appetit survey

The College catering service, Bon Appetit, is asking students forfeedback on their meal plan, dining experience and opinions onfood in the 2009 StudentVoice survey. The online survey will beposted through Monday.

According to Bon Appetit General Manager JonErik Germadnik,all survey respondents will be entered into a drawing to win sever-al prizes, such as two $50 gas cards, five pizza parties at the Gee,five gift certificates to the College Bookstore and 30 cash prizes tobe deposited on Crimson Cash cards.

To take the survey, visit https://my.gcc.edu/ics and click on theStudentVoice link.

Professor and insiderspeaks at conference

Salut!

FOREIGN CORRESPONDENCE

Student shares her experiences

At 5:30 Tuesday morning, there was a power outage which lasted about ten seconds andaffected the College, the Borough of Grove City, and some surrounding communities. TheGrove City Borough Electrical Department informed Operations that the outage had to dowith an error in the transmission of power from First Energy, the area’s power supplier. TheCollege was told to expect another blackout Tuesday morning, but the problem was fixedbefore a second outage could occur.

Vice-President of Operations Tom Gregg ’80 reported that the College’s systems were unaf-fected by the power loss, due to battery and generator backups on all electronic and computerhardware. The only known inconvenience was to students whose digital alarm clocks reset atthe time of the outage, causing them to oversleep.

Area experiences power loss

Dear Students: In an effort to maintaina connection with Grove City College’sstudents spread throughout the world,each week the Collegian will print a let-ter from a student studying in a foreigncountry.Salut, Grove City!

Transplanting yourself is “as necessarywith people as with other sorts of growingthings.” So said Ernest Hemingway, and Iagree. A developing person must steep her-self in a rich foreign language and its cul-ture and marinate.

Total immersion, at some point in yourlife, is necessary and powerful, if merelyfor the maturity you will gain after dealingwith being scared out of your mind at thestart. But of all the places to carry out thisexperience, I think Paris is best.

Hemingway, as you may know, called ithis favorite city for “in Paris there is away of living well and working no matterhow poor you are; it’s like having a greattreasure given to you.”

My experience thus far attests to this.The following proposals are all possiblewith little or no money, but they representnot tourism, but enrichment. They hold novalue as insider tips for a traveler’s brag-ging rights, but rather as ingredients to arich marinade.

(1). One of the best places to witness asunrise in Paris is in the LuxembourgGardens. You can take a morning run thereand enjoy the sunlight reflected in thetranquil waters of the Fontaine Marie deMedici while most Parisians are still sleep-ing. This is where Marius met JeanValjean and Cosette in “Les Misérables.”

(2). The Arc de Triomphe is the largesttriumphal arch in the world after Rome’sArch of Titus and the perfect place toreflect on Western political history.Napoleon ordered the Arch’s constructionin the early nineteenth century and itbecame the resting place of his ashes whenhe died. Here the tomb of the UnknownSoldier honors the memory of France’sdead in both World Wars. Nazi stormtroopers proceeded through this Arc in1940, and five years later it served as thesite for Paris’s liberation parade with theAllies. You have to get there before thetraffic while the morning is still quiet inorder to hear the solitary guards’ footstepson the marble of the Place de l’Étoile.

(3). Ah Paris, a city where there is now alocation to rent bikes every 900 feet – amore frequent sight than metro stations!Parisian drivers are polite to those on twowheels and make room for bikers, in spiteof the congested traffic and horn-honkinghostility between cars in rush-hour. Round

the legendary Place de l’Étoile the spacesbetween the lanes are so large that mostbikers do at least twice the speed of othermoving traffic. Cyclists zip through redlights if there is little traffic and changelanes as much as they like … it’s loads offun. On Sundays you can bike along theSeine; the streets bordering the quais donot permit cars at that time so you havethe road all to yourself.

(4). For evening entertainment, stand onthe steps of the Palais Garnier, a nine-teenth century Opera house in Neo-Baroque style, near show time. On nightswhen its 2,200 seats are not sold out, youcan buy them for several Euros minutesbefore the performance begins. You willfind yourself sitting on the highest balcony

in a creaky, uncomfortable wooden foldingchair and, if you’re tall, your legs will bein excruciating pain after thirty minutes.But it’s worth it. You can take your mindoff your aching joints by looking up atMarc Chagall’s incredible ceiling paintingin between acts of the opera or ballet.

(5). At sunset, you can unwind on thebanks of the Seine listening to streetmusic, admiring the illuminated NotreDame and taking advantage of a free salsalesson. In the summer, the cathedral’s tow-ers are open late so visitors can climb tothe top and enjoy a breathtaking nocturnalperspective of the City of Lights.

Hemingway believed, in regards toParis, that “you received return for what-ever you brought to it,” which I suppose istrue of many great things. However, Iwould not consider a foreign experience asimple exchange. Its nature is to createwithin you two concurrent responses: thefulfillment of becoming a larger personand the appetite for what you know of(savoir), but do not yet know (connaître).

“If you are lucky enough to have livedin Paris as a young man,” Hemingwaywrote, “then wherever you go for the restof your life, it stays with you, for Paris is amoveable feast.”

Bon Voyage! And Bon Appetit! Junior Caroline Harp

Courtesy Caroline HarpJunior Caroline Harp in a Paris garden.

News4 The CollegianMarch 27, 2009

taking (even relying on) this source ofmoney, many schools are seeing a severeshort-term revenue tightening (especiallyas to state money),” College President Dr.Richard G. Jewell ’67 wrote in his month-ly letter to alumni. “We will, I assure you,continue our path of independence, for itis the bedrock of who we have been, areand always will be, and that is a promise.”

While the economy may certainly affectthe personal lives of those involved withthe College, core economic principles,ingrained in the College’s history, haveprotected the school from suffering manyproblems – so much so that Jewell wrotein his letter that “we are not affected at allon the downside,” in reference to federaland state subsidies.

A second reason the College has limitednegative impact from economic troubles isthat the College does not use much of itsendowment earnings for operations, asmost institutions do.

“In fact, we use endowment earningsfor only a bit over one percent of ouroperating budget,” Jewell wrote in his let-ter. “This is another historically sound,conservative operating principle that wehave always followed and whose wisdomis illustrated in times such as these. ... So,the effect on our operating budget is mini-mal and not catastrophic, though for those

many schools in current financial troublethis is a significant factor.”

These economics principles were estab-lished during the early 1890s, when aneconomic downturn brought the Pew fam-ily into the College’s history.

Jewell said that Dr. Isaac C. Ketlerinvited Joseph Newton Pew to theCollege to be its Board Chairman in orderto help them out of the financial turmoilcaused by the economic problems thataffected the nation and the College in1893 (the “Panic of 1893”). It was duringthis time that the College adopted thoseprinciples to which they continue toadhere.

Basically, the College continues with“business as usual,” Jewell said.

Though these principles keep the coursesteady, the College must still look forwardto certain risks and threats.Jewell reported in his let-ter to alumni that theinvestment portfolios andreturns have decreased,just as they have at allinstitutions.

The primary area forwhich endowment earn-ings are used is for need-based and merit-basedscholarships.

“We had an estimatedshortfall next year overthe amount of existingscholarship funds avail-able this year of about$1.5 million,” Jewell

wrote. “But I have good news …Throughnewly identified deferred giving specifi-cally earmarked for scholarships byrecently deceased alumni in their estates,plus current gifts from other donors forthe scholarship purposes, we will actuallyhave a bit more money available to awardnext year’s students than we did in 2008-2009.”

Jewell said that the choice of theincoming freshmen – whether to come ornot – does not seem to be affected by theeconomic recession.

“Already half the class is filled,” Jewellsaid. The other half have just receivedtheir acceptance letters.

This is not the first time that the Collegehas weathered financial storms. DuringWorld War II, there was a significanteffect on the College due to the lack of

male enrollment; however, the Collegehad its economic principles and alsoworked to add a program for trainingnaval officers that attracted the necessaryenrollment. In fact, 3,759 officers weretrained over a two-year period at theCollege.

The College is blessed with soundfinances due to clear foresight, based onstrong principles. While this does notmean that it will not face challenges, itdoes mean that it is well-equipped to waitout the economic problems facing thecountry.

Jewell closed his interview by saying,“Since the College operates primarily onits tuition, room and board revenue, it isimportant that full enrollment be main-tained. And we have to continue to dowell in that area.”

Economyfrom page 1

Thrasher gives hopeto graduating seniors

By Sarah Beth GrossCollegian Managing Editor

“There is no question that theeconomy, or the state of the econo-my, is very practically affecting usin Career Services,” Dr. James T.Thrasher, Director of CareerServices said. “It affects our seniorsand probably even our juniors.”

One of the main reasons the eco-nomic situation affects the econo-my is because of the hiring freezes.

“I have been out a lot, recruitingcompanies and caring for our rela-tionships with companies and manyof those companies are in hiringfreezes,” Thrasher said. “Thismeans that everything is on holdfor them until they see how this isall going to turn out and when theeconomy will turn around. It is likea ripple effect. The pebble of afreeze goes in the pond and thewaves move out. We are seeing thatvery tangibly now.”

Although many companies havehiring freezes, not all organizationsthat are laying people off havefreezes on hiring.

“Every organization, even if theyare firing or you see on the newsthat they have out-placed 5,000-10,000 people in one day may be,that very day, hiring,” Thrashersaid. “Every company is hiring ….In fact, some of those organizationsare using this downturn to maketheir organization leaner and mean-er in the personnel department.”

Thrasher said that companies useeconomic recessions to shave offemployees who are counterproduc-tive or who don’t work as well inthe organization.

“But that organization is stillmoving ahead, so we are meetingwith seniors all the time and hear-ing good things,” Thrasher said.

The most important thing for job-seekers in economic recessions tounderstand how to find the avail-able jobs or to create an opportuni-ty for future jobs.

“If [seniors] have been workingour four year process then theyreally have the keys to success,”Thrasher said. “We would stronglyencourage seniors to engage theprocess. Engage the process andutilize us in building lifelong strate-gic job search skills.”

Students have the opportunity tolearn how to be their own careercounselors, by applying the skillsthey learn in the process at college.

“When times are tough, it is avery good exercise for current jun-iors and seniors. When students getjobs very easily, in one sense that iswonderful but in another sense thatmay have come too easily becausethey are not going to be as wellprepared to look for those otherpositions,” Thrasher said. “The sen-iors who are working very hardright now to find employment areactually undergoing a very goodexercise because they will under-stand the importance of the resume

and interview and cover letter andunderstand how important network-ing and developing relationshipsare in the whole process.”

The Career Services Officereached out for new relationships,specifically with green jobs andfederal opportunities.

“We have come up with 20 newinitiatives to help seniors deal withthe economic downturn,” Thrashersaid. “They relate to alternativecareers and challenge students tothink creatively outside the boxwhere they can use their gifts andabilities to build their skills andexperience but also be able to stepinto a more desirable position whenit becomes available.”

Thrasher said that, while 50 per-cent of Grove City graduates willenter graduate school within fiveyears of leaving, a downturn eco-nomically also increases graduateschool applications among seniors.

He warned that it is important toremember that graduate schools donot want to be seen as a last choice,so seniors should be ready to makea strong case for their interest ingraduate schools at this time.

“Our general encouragement is torun the gauntlet,” Thrasher said.“Whether the economy is strong ornot, I encourage students to havelots of entrees on their platter andwe would encourage students veryearly on in their career to researchgraduate school and see if thatmight be an option for them.”

New headsappointed

Beginning June 1, the GroveCity College communication stud-ies and biology departments willhave new department chairpersons.

Dr. William Anderson, provost ofthe College, said that Dr. DannBrown of the communication stud-ies department and Dr. ArnieSodergren of the biology depart-ment “have informed [the adminis-tration] they would like to havemore time to focus on their teach-ing and scholarship.” Because ofthis they have asked to be relievedof their department chair duties.

“Both have served the Collegewith great commitment and abili-ty,” Anderson said.

Brown accepted the chair ofCommunication Studies when itwas reestablished as a separatedepartment in 2003. Under hisleadership, communication studieshas grown into one of the largestmajors on campus, Anderson said.Brown continued the major’semphasis on media and rhetoricand introduced courses on virtualcitizenship and the Internet andincreased student and facultyresearch opportunities.

As department chair for 21 years,Sodergren oversaw the hiring ofmany faculty, the introduction ofthe environmental science concen-tration within the department, thegrowth and strengthening of thepre-health professions curriculumand most recently the increasedemphasis upon student and faculty

collaborative research, Andersonsaid.

Next year’s chairs will be Dr.Suzanna Gribble ’00 for the biolo-gy department and Dr. JenniferScott ’99 for the communicationstudies department.

Gribble joined the College’s fac-ulty in fall 2007 after completingher Ph.D. in Neuroscience at theUniversity of Utah. She holds herM.S. in Anatomy from CaseWestern Reserve University.Gribble has published research onZebrafish in several journals andpresented posters at several inter-national and regional Zebrafish orbiology conferences.

Scott earned her Ph.D. inCommunication Studies, with anemphasis in Rhetoric and PublicCulture, from the Scripps Collegeof Communication at OhioUniversity. Scott has publishedarticles in several scholarly com-munication journals, contributedchapters in two books and per-formed editorial work on four vol-umes of the “CommunicationYearbook.” Scott served for severalyears as the assistant director ofCareer Services at the College,then upon completing her graduatework returned to the College in2006 as the associate director ofthe Career Services office. Shejoined the faculty full-time in thefall of 2008.

Collegian Editor-in-Chief DarinMiller contributed.

News 5The CollegianMarch 27, 2009

almost a century ago. Indeed, this “newsphere of activity” has proven to be highlysuccessful as the College continues to devel-op its reputation as a national contender.

In only the second full year of competitionas a member of the National ParliamentaryDebate Association, the squad has beenranked as high as seventh in the nation. OnMarch 13-15, they recently finished the sea-son with a trip to California for the NationalChristian College Forensics Invitational atBiola University.

The debate team returned from the sun-shine of Los Angeles with a first-place finishin team quality points (the greatest amountof success per team entered) and a third-place finish in overall sweepstakes amongChristian universities and colleges fromaround the nation.

Grove City placed two teams in the juniorvarsity category and four teams in the opencategory. Of the six teams that traveled, fourbroke to the elimination rounds. Junior LukeJuday and sophomore Dayne Battenadvanced to the quarter-finals in the opendivision while sophomores Kelsey Wintherand Dan Hanson advanced to the octa-finals.

In addition, freshmen Lauren Thomas andJohn Bianchi reached the quarter-finals ofjunior varsity, while freshmen Andy Walkerand James Van Eerden advanced to the semi-finals. Despite not “breaking” to out rounds,the teams of sophomores Alex Pepper andHarrison Ealey, as well as freshman KirbyGowen and sophomore Brittany Cobb, post-ed impressive records and were instrumentalin the overall success of the team.

After returning, many members of theteam expressed gratitude for the opportunity

to represent the college through healthycompetition.

Cobb said, “I really enjoyed the opportuni-ty to represent Grove City on the other sideof the country.”

Although the final national rankings for the2008-2009 season have yet to be posted, theGrove City debate team finished the yearwith an overall record of 202-99, whichequates to an impressive 67 percent teamwinning rate.

Juday, the team captain, and partner Battenled the way with a remarkable year individu-ally. After attending nine tournaments,including nationals, Juday and Batten record-ed first-place finishes in six tournaments inaddition to claiming numerous speakerawards. After it was all said and done, theyfinished the season with a staggering 52-12record.

When asked about the success with hispartner, Batten commented, “To be perfectlyhonest, I never really expected to have a sea-

son anything like this one. So, our successcame as a bit of a surprise. That being said, Ithink Luke and I won a lot of rounds thisyear by making strong, real-world argu-ments.”

Batten continued, “In the end, I think it’sall about sticking to straightforward thinkingand simple, fact-based logic.”

Logic. That’s what Grove City Collegeteaches, and it has proven to be an effectivetool for educators, scientists and debatersalike.

In addition to the raw success of the indi-viduals and the team as a whole, the debateseason has meant more than the final resultof a win or loss. Debate has been a conduitfor friendships and life learning.

Juday said, “I love the people on thedebate team foremost. We’ve been blessedwith an incredible mix of debaters whose tal-ents fit together in a way we couldn’t haveorchestrated ourselves.”

Moreover, Bianchi commented on the larg-

er importance of debate: “My debating expe-rience has built my ability to communicatemy ideas effectively while considering manysides to an issue. This provides a basis forcivil discourse that is lacking from our socie-ty today.”

The debate team would like to express par-ticular gratitude to its coach Dr. StevenJones, associate professor of sociology andand assistant coach Dr. Jason R. Edwards,associate professor of education and history,for their commitment to coaching in debateand in life; their sacrifice of time and energyis greatly appreciated.

In the end, the 2008-2009 Grove CityCollege debate season proved to be success-ful in more ways than one. As the squadanticipates the beginning of next season, it isoften reminded of the words of the UnitedStates Senator and 38th Vice-PresidentHubert Humphrey who said, “Freedom ishammered out on the anvil of discussion,dissent, and debate.”

Debatefrom page 1

Courtesy Luke JudayThe entire California debate team contingent stops by the Pacific Ocean for a break in the sun.

Courtesy DJ WagnerIndoor activities included playing with boomwhackers – hollow plastic tubes thatproduce different musical notes – and refracting light through Jell-O. The high-light of the day was liquid nitrogen ice cream, which was readily consumed byall in attendance.

Physics Day draws crowds of eager youth

Courtesy DJ WagnerTuesday was Annual Physics Day, a special time for members of the Physics Clubto reach out to the community by hosting a program for gifted elementary schoolchildren. A group of approximately 20 fourth, fifth, and sixth graders arrived oncampus at 10 am to participate in outdoor activities such as measuring speedswith a radar gun and creating waves with a giant spring.

News6 The CollegianMarch 27, 2009

Orthodox speakerdelivers talk on salvation

By Mary RimiContributing Writer

“How many orthodox does it taketo change a light bulb?”Answer:“Why would you change it?”

This is not the sort of thing thatan audience going to listen to thepastor of an Orthodox Churchexpects to hear, but, for those whoattended Harbison Chapel at 7 p.m.on Friday, that is exactly what theygot.

The Reverend Father PatrickHenry Reardon spoke that eveningto a small audience of Grove CityCollege students, parents and pro-fessors. Reardon is the pastor of AllSaints Orthodox Church inChicago, Ill., and is a well-knownBible scholar.

Though he has had an extensiveeducation, his lecture contained nopretention.

After being introduced by thedean of Harbison Chapel Dr. F.Stanley Keehlwetter as a “very dis-tinguished guest,” Reardon beganto eloquently speak about theOrthodox Church and soteriology,which, breaking it down to its rootwords for the audiences’ sake, heexplained as being the theology ofsalvation.

According to Reardon, since theeleventh century, Western thoughton salvation has been dominated byAnslem of Canterbury.

“In my view, it’s too narrow aview of soteriology,” Reardon said.

He then went on to explain theview of salvation that was held dur-ing the first 1,000 years afterChrist.

Reardon clearly stated where hediffered with Anslem’s philosophyon this issue; Medieval andRenaissance theories assume thatthere was some need in God thathad to be met and satisfied byChrist’s sacrifice on the Cross.

“I don’t see that. I don’t see it inthe theology of the first 1,000 yearsor in the East,” Reardon said.

Instead, Reardon explained thathis and the Orthodox view is thatChrist’s passion did not affect God,nor was it for God; it was for man’ssake alone that the sacrifice wasmade.

In addition to his main point, he

had a number of sub-pointsexplaining the theology of sacrifice,the triadic structure of Isaiah andman’s alienation from God.

Throughout the “alternativechapel,” Reardon’s knowledge oftheology poured from him. Hequoted scripture in its original dia-logue, though afterwards he trans-lated what he said.

He explained that the word“kadosh” is Hebrew for “holy” andappears 33 times in the OldTestament book of Isaiah. In addi-tion to referencing several books ofthe Bible, including Hebrews andPsalms, he also cited the works ofSt. Augustine and Dante and refer-enced the Counsel of Nicaea.

He remained aware of his audi-ence, however. As the majority ofthose present were college students,he mixed in humor, at once sayingthat what God did to Pharaoh was“sent him ten plagues upside thehead.” While he came across asbeing highly educated, he never letit cross the line of being pompous,and he made his points clear andeasy to understand.

Reardon’s discussion lasted for50 minutes. There was a brief ques-tion and answer session beforeKeehlwetter thanked Reardon forcoming, and the audience applaud-ed. Afterward, Reardon remainedand was approached by studentswith questions and comments.

Sophomore Amanda Lutter said,“I enjoyed learning about the ortho-dox tradition. I’ve heard that [it]diverged far earlier than theCatholic [and] Protestant split ... hementioned a reform made in theseventh century.”

Lutter also said that she found theidea that “God does not need sacri-fice for His glorification, not toprove His holiness [or] evidenceHis mercy” to be “impressive,” andit made her think about her viewson the matter.

Reardon received his educationfrom Southern Baptist TheologicalSeminary (Louisville, Ky.), St.Anslem’s College (Rome), ThePontifical Bible Institute (Rome),The University of Liverpool(England) and St. Tikhon’sOrthodox Seminary (South Canaan,Pa.).

easterndiocese.orgReverend Father Patrick Henry Reardon delivers a sermon.

Symposium discussesalternative energy

By Elizabeth MubarekContributing Writer

“Are there practical, feasible alternatives to coal,oil, and natural gas? How realistic is renewable ener-gy? Will they be able to make a significant contribu-tion in terms of substitutions for fossil fuels?” Theseare a few of the relevant questions that moderatorJohn Oliver asked of Grove City College students ashe introduced the Alternative Energy Symposium.

The Symposium was held in Sticht Lecture Hall at7 p.m. on March 18. It was part of the EnvironmentalEducation Seminar Series, which holds one event persemester. This particular symposium was designed toinform students about the growing necessity to dis-cover and utilize various forms of renewable energyso that society is able to rely less on the depletingsources of fossil fuels. It was sponsored by GroveCity College’s biology, engineering and political sci-ence departments.

Five speakers were invited to the event, each ofwhom addressed a different solution to alternativeenergy. The first speaker, John Hall of IQ Energy,spoke on turning waste material into energy to use asfuel. “We have a tremendous amount of growingpressure in this country to reduce our imported fuels.We cannot continue to keep throwing things awaythe way we have. We have to start using our materi-als more intelligently,” he said.

Bruce Norman, manager for General ElectricCorporation, spoke on General Electric’s develop-ment of wind and solar energy. Wind is currently themost economical, large-scale and renewableresource. Because of its reliability and capacity, GE’s1.5 MW model is the world’s most widely deployedwind turbine. GE is a world leader in renewableenergy solutions, and they currently have $5 billioninvested as a company. Speaking to the students inthe audience, Norman said, “It’s a good time in histo-ry for you to be in this space.”

Speaker Joseph Blake, plant manager forPennsylvania Biodiesel, Inc., began by asking theprobing questions, “Why do we need or want alterna-tives to petroleum diesel? Is there something better?”It has been determined that sulfur and petroleumdiesels are not good for the environment. Biodiesel,on the other hand, is environmentally friendly in thatit is biodegradable, nontoxic and does not contributeto acid rain. “When it comes to pricing today we canproduce it and sell it cheaper than you can buy petro-leum diesel,” Blake said.

The fourth speaker, William Wasser, was a unique

speaker in that he came to speak from thePennsylvania Department of Conservation andNatural Resources. Wasser is the manager ofGoddard State Park. He talked of biofuels in terms ofhome heating methods and ethanol production. Hespoke of using food crops for fuels, though this cancreate problems of its own, such as an increase infood costs when people are using them for fuel, andalso erosion due to the shallow root systems of foodcrops such as corn.

Wasser spoke of crops such as Switchgrass to servethis need, because it has extensive root systems and“provides some of the best soils in the world.”Switchgrass is a fast-growing perennial, it provideswildlife habitat, it is not a food crop and it can beharvested with the same type of equipment that weuse to harvest hay and straw today. “Two acres ofSwitchgrass can heat the average home for a season,”Wasser said.

The final speaker at the symposium was the presi-dent of Premier Power Solutions, Lee McCracken.He spoke on long term costs and supplies of energy.“In the current economy, the cost of capital hasincreased for capital intensive industries. The focuson this environment is on what costs me the least.The uncertainty around the economics will have animpact on the cost that is put into the energy sector,”he said. McCracken predicted commercial energyconsumption will increase 25 percent in the next 25years.

The symposium as a whole put forth the possibilitythat by the year 2030, one in four jobs would be inthe field of renewable energy. It informed studentsthat, because of this possibility, this would be anideal field for them to be involved in over the nextseveral decades.

“I thought the symposium did a good job of pre-senting the renewable alternatives to fossil fuel ener-gy,” said Dr. Jan Dudt, associate professor of biolo-gy. “The perspective on the future of solar and windwere especially thought-provoking, both in terms ofprojected viabilities and improved technologies thatwould influence the markets and job possibilities.”

Chair of the biology department Dr. ArnoldSodergren, offered a similar opinion by saying,“Invited speakers did a great job of discussing issuesof technology, economics and public policy. Few top-ics are of more current and future importance to stu-dents at [the] College than, for example, renewableenergy resources. It was encouraging to see StichtAuditorium nearly full of students representing boththe Hopeman and Calderwood schools.”

ever. Our colleges have failed thecountry in numerous respects, andone of those, which is being feltpainfully right now, is the horren-dous failure to teach how freeeconomies work and howeconomies generally succeed.This is an issue that WalterWilliams will address, as will I, toa degree.

Collegian: Will we see the val-ues of the College become mar-ginalized if current trends contin-ue?

Kengor: Quite the contrary, [theCollege] will be more importantthan ever. Trends change – by defi-nition. We at [Grove City] and theCenter for Vision & Values believein the timeless truths, in TruthHimself and the eternal. What youlearn here doesn’t die. The secular

culture is always at the mercy ofcurrents trends and changing fash-ion. To be a Christian is not to beof that world. The faith you learnat [the College] will never be mar-ginalized, and the stronger youhold to that faith, the less you willbe marginalized.

Collegian: Do we see a greatdeal of support or attendancefrom those outside the College?

Kengor: Oh, yes. Every yearwe get 100-200 off-campus visi-tors as attendees. We will getthose numbers again this year.This conference is a great chance

for non-[Grove City College] stu-dents and especially adults in thesurrounding community, to goback to school for two days. Thatapplies to the parents of our stu-dents as well. On April 16 and 17,we will once again be wideningthe availability of a [Grove CityCollege] education.

The conference will kick offThursday April 16 at 10 a.m. inSticht Lecture Hall of the Hall ofArts and Letters. For more infor-mation on the conference or theCenter itself, please visitwww.grovecityconference.org.

Visionfrom page 2

News 7The CollegianMarch 27, 2009

Former College president speaksBy Darin MillerCollegian Editor-in-Chief

The second annual GroveCity Evangelical ScholarshipConference, sponsored by theCollege’s religion department,the student government associa-tion and the College’s chapelprogram, brought Dr. CharlesS. MacKenzie, former presidentof Grove City College, to speakon the topic of the protestantreformation leader John Calvin.

This year marks the 500-yearanniversary of Calvin’s birth.

MacKenzie spoke at 7 p.m.on March 16 in StichtAuditorium in the Hall of Artsand Letters and delivered thechapel homily in HarbisonChapel the next morning.

He spoke at the conference’sfourth session on the topic of“Calvin’s contribution toAmerican higher education.”

“I hoped that students wouldcome away from my lecturewith a little better understand-ing of who John Calvin wasand what his influence was andis in vast regions of the world,”MacKenzie said later in an e-mail. “Specifically I hope someunderstand his influence inhigher education both inEurope and America.”

MacKenzie is currently thedistinguished professor of phi-losophy and theology atReformed TheologicalSeminary in Oviedo, Fla.

Before this, he was a pastor

in New York City, New Jerseyand California, and he alsoserved as a chaplain in theUnited States Air Force.

Grove City College studentsknow him best for his serviceto the College, as presidentfrom 1971 to 1991 and as chan-cellor from 1991-92, when heled the College through itslandmark Supreme Court casein 1984 – Grove City College v.Bell – which granted theCollege substantial freedomfrom government regulation.

He is married to LaVonne(Gaiser ’56), a Grove Citynative and Grove City Collegegraduate.

MacKenzie lectured onCalvin’s life, describing thepeople and events that shapedhis views on education.Influences included friends andacquaintances, such as fellowProtestant William Farel andmajor events in his life, includ-ing where he attended school.

“I believe one of the majorturning points in Calvin’s lifewas when his friend Farel con-fronted him and warned him ofdire consequences if he put hisown selfish desires before thewill of God,” MacKenzie said.“Farel, cried out ‘God willcurse you and your desires ifyou abandon this work whichneeds you.’ Thereafter, for therest of his life, Calvin tried toput the will of God before hisown selfish desires.”

During his lecture,

MacKenzie emphasizedCalvin’s “common grace.”

“Common grace is universaland is related to every sphereof life,” MacKenzie said. “Itcurbs and limits the sinfulnessof society and opens up newinsights on how God relatesHimself to life.”

Calvin’s views on commongrace led him to believe inideas, such as compulsory edu-cation – he was among the firstin Europe to share the view –and to found what has becomethe University of Geneva.

MacKenzie said that Calvinbelieved education should serveto discover God’s truth hiddenin the universe.

“Saving grace was mostimportant to Calvin, since itdetermined people’s eternaldestiny,” MacKenzie said. “Butcommon grace also was signifi-cant to Calvin, since it can helpChristians to understand howGod relates Himself to all theshifting situations of life.”

MacKenzie said that Calvin’sideas on common grace wereimportant to the founders ofGrove City College.

“[The College’s founders]wanted a school here thatwould educate men and women… that they could become lead-ers in all the different spheresof human [intellect].”

MacKenzie ended the sessionby telling the students in Stichtto “go out into the world andchange the world.”

“And all the people said,” hestated, to which the studentsresponded, “Amen.”

During the March 17 chapelservice, MacKenzie continuedwith his theme of young leaderswho are called by God andused by him.

He said, “It seems to me thatthe Scripture teaches that Godhas a plan for each of you.”

He said that the studentsshould pray that God “search”them, “cleanse” them and “fill”them.

“None of us can accomplishthe destiny for which we werecreated unless God is fillingus,” he said.

The evangelical conferencelecture series’ purpose is to cel-ebrate the Reformation and theGospel of Jesus Christ. Theconference is divided into ses-sions which are held throughoutthe year.

The fifth and final session forthe year will feature Dr. DerekW. H. Thomas, professor fromReformed TheologicalSeminary in Jackson, Miss. Thesession will occur at 4:15 p.m.on Monday in the Parker OrganStudio in the Pew Fine ArtsCenter and at 7 p.m. onTuesday in Harbison Chapel.Thomas will also deliverTuesday’s chapel address.

Josh KitamuraMacKenzie addresses students during chapel on March 17.

Thetas, Betas auction dates to raise fundsBy Athanasios I. TsirisContributing Writer

You can buy a nice new pair of pants. Youcan buy a fancy car and a nice dinner. Butthe one thing you cannot buy is someone toenjoy it all with you. At least you couldn’tuntil a group of Grove City College studentsstarted auctioning off dates with theirfriends.

Senior Breyana Lehman and sophomoreBen Chapman planned the date auction toraise money for a mission trip they are lead-ing to the Dominican Republic. Lehman andChapman enlisted help from the brothers ofBeta Sigma fraternity and the sisters ofTheta Alpha Pi sorority.

“We got 30 Betas and 20 Thetas to volun-teer themselves,” Lehman said. “I wentaround to local businesses asking them todonate dates as an incentive to get people tobid higher. The 12 highest bidders willreceive complimentary gift certificates.”

The auction concluded on March 20, andall of the proceeds benefit the StudentsInternational trip to Jarabacoa, DominicanRepublic, where students from the Collegewill spend two weeks working in variouscapacities. According to Chapman, “It’sunique in that everyone signs up for a spe-cific site they’d like to work at. It’s not atrip where everyone is stuck building ahouse.”

The students hope to raise $5,000 between

the date auction and three more fundraisersthey are planning. The date auction raisedapproximately $1,000 after a week of bid-ding in the Breen Student Union. Interestedbidders could look at pictures of the peopleup for auction and bid on their desired date.

“Members were able to find out who hadthe highest bid at any time,” Chapman said.“If they [weren’t] happy, our hope is thatthey [encouraged] their desired date to comeback and bid more.”

When it comes to being auctioned off sen-ior Laura Powell wasn’t too worried. “It’snot too scary, and I knew I always had myroommates to come buy me if no one elsedid. Plus it was fun to check up on everyelse’s stats throughout the week.” She said

she participated because a lot of her sororitysisters go on mission trips, and she recog-nizes the need for funding.

Junior Darrius Pugh was also up for auc-tion. “I don’t mind doing it because it’s for agood cause. Plus if someone bids highenough I could get a nice dinner out of it.”

Lehman said she has recieved some nega-tive response from the date auction. “I’vebeen criticized a lot for selling people orprostitution but I don’t see it that way. I seeit as encouraging people to contribute to agreat cause.”

Fifteen students are going on the two-weektrip to the Dominican Republic. Sponsoreddates are to Elephant & Castle, Rachel’sRoadhouse and the Guthrie Theatre.

During the 2006-07 academic year, The Collegian initiated theCollegian Green Eyeshade Award for newspaper staffers whoshow exemplary work each week.

Each week, Collegian Staff Adviser Amy Clingensmith '96,with input from section editors, names one or two winners basedon work for that issue. Those honored may have written a story,taken a photograph, designed a page, created a headline, forgedahead in advertising, edited an article or advanced the effort insupporting the mission of The Collegian. Weekly winnersreceived a certificate as well as a $5 voucher to the Gedunk.

The winner for the March 20 issue was junior Ryan Lesser forhis article on Cliff Brown.

Collegian awards Green Eyeshade

News8 The CollegianMarch 27, 2009

Outside the bubble...

Tax cuts raise questions from constituentsQuestions about the tax cut are surfacing around Washington this week. “President Barack Obama says he’s not ready to comment on a proposal from some Senate Democrats

to scrap his middle-class tax cut after 2010,” the Associated Press reported. “Obama says he hasn’t yetseen what changes are coming out of the House and Senate.”

Although rumors surround taxes in 2010, in a Tuesday evening news conference, Obama spoke abouthis proposed 2010 budget.

“Obama said the budget must move toward health care reform and include an energy policy that freesthe U.S. from dependence on foreign oil,” the AP reported. “He also says he’s looking for an investmentin education and a reduction in the deficit.”

While a middle class tax cut is in place because of the recovery package, Obama “never expectedCongress to approve his plan without some changes,” the AP reported.

President Barack Obama and a group of schoolchildren received a call on Tuesday from astronauts inthe shuttle-station orbiting earth, Fox News reported.

“The president told the two crews he was extraordinarily proud of them for their work at the internation-al space station over the past week,” Fox News reported. “He wanted to know how they installed the newsolar panels and what the impact of that green power would be.”

The addition of a panel of solar wings has doubled the crew’s available power. “We’re investing back here on the ground a whole array of solar and other renewable energy projects,

and so to find out that you’re doing this up at the space station is particularly exciting,” Obama told theastronauts.

Obama was joined in the call by a group of middle school students from a Washington, D.C. school.The children asked the astronauts what video games they played, what they ate and whether or not thereare any life forms in space.

“One of the two former schoolteachers who flew up on Discovery, Richard Arnold II, said the food waspretty good, consisting mostly of dehydrated fare and military-style ready-to-eat meals ‘that a few of usate last year when the hurricane came through Houston,’” Fox News reported.

Obama asked Sandra Magnus, the only woman on board, if she ever felt like cutting her hair, whichflies around her head like Medusa’s snakes.

“She said no, and the president called it ‘a real fashion statement,’” Fox News reported.The one topic not covered during the phone call was the vacancy of NASA’s chief position, which has

been open since Obama took office. Although Obama has yet to nominate a candidate, ChristopherScolese, the second in command, has been filling in and was present for the phone call.

Obama and children speak with astronauts

Sitting on the edge of a ledge at the top of his school in Bangkok,Thailand, an 11-year-old autistic boy refused to come down for hismother and teacher on Monday, Fox News reported.

Somchai, who was called after the mother’s failed attempts to gether son off the ledge, overheard a conversation between the motherand teacher about the boy’s love for comic book characters.

Realizing he could use this to his advantage, Somchai went back tothe fire station in order to change into a Spider-Man costume in orderto rescue the young boy, Somchai told Fox News.

“I told him Spider-Man is here to save you. No monster will hurtyou now,” Somchai said. “Then I told him to walk slowly toward me.I was very nervous that he might have slipped if he got too excitedand ran.”

The boy responded well, breaking into a smile and walking toSomchai with no problems.

The fireman keeps a Spider-Man costume and the costume of aJapanese superhero Ultraman in order to “liven up fire drills atschool,” Fox News reported.

– Compiled by Sarah Beth GrossCollegian Managing Editor

‘Spider-Man’ rescues child

EU condemns US plan

Student-faculty committee promotes integrityAnna BrinkmanCollegian Entertainment Editor

From chapel speakers to class-room discussions to specialreminders in syllabi, academicintegrity has been a central concernat Grove City College since earlylast year. Whether they activelyengage in the dialogue or simplywonder how it is relevant, everystudent is familiar with the signifi-cant place this issue occupies in thecampus community. But where didthis ongoing interest in academicintegrity originate, and does theconversation have a future?

The discussion of academicintegrity began in fall 2005, afterthe Campus Strategic Plan calledfor the issue to be explored; theProvost Dr. William Andersoncalled for a committee to exploreissues of academic integrity andpossibly establish an honor code.For the next three years, the com-mittee, chaired by Dr. PaulKemeny, professor of religion andhumanities, surveyed the studentbody, conducted focus groups, andarranged for a Student AdvisoryBoard to study the issue.

“The old system lacked trans-parency and consistency,” Kemenysaid. “As the faculty met and wehad a student advisory board – plusthe 23 focus groups – an ongoingtheme was the lack of consistency.

The new process resolves thoseproblems.”

Rather than instituting a tradi-tional honor code, the faculty andadministration decided to includestudents in the process of adjudi-cating matters of academic dishon-esty. The vast majority of facultymembers voted in favor of thischange to the Honesty in Learningpolicy. The result was the student-faculty review committee, a newsystem that attempts to strike a bal-ance between confidentiality andtransparency.

Starting in January, three panelshave met this year. Associate pro-fessor of sociology Dr. StevenJones chairs the student-facultyreview committee as a non-votingmember and coordinates its activi-ty. Kemeny now serves as coordi-nator of the Faculty ConsultationPanel, an advisory group com-posed of three professors that iscalled together to help faculty eval-uate the merits of alleged academicintegrity violations.

“In all three cases thus far, theindividual students have confessedto committing acts of academicdishonesty – so there hasn’t been aguilt or innocence discussionbefore the committee,” Jones said.“All we’ve done is talked aboutsanctions, and we’ve signed off onthe professors’ recommendationsfor sanctions.”

Students can report academicintegrity issues on myGCC throughthe “Student” tab, where an“Academic Integrity” link providesan online form to fill out. Once aform is completed, the computerassigns the report a case number. Itis sent to the faculty member inwhose class the potential violationoccurred and is also sent to Jonesand to Kliber for record-keepingpurposes.

The faculty member may meetwith the student(s) who allegedlycommitted the violation. If a facul-ty member has already approacheda student after filling out a formand the student acknowledges dis-honesty, the faculty member canrecommend sanctions, but all sanc-tions must be moved through thecommittee.

“There have been differences ofopinion about the appropriatenessof sanctions,” Jones said. “Facultymembers have begun clarifyingthings in their syllabi about what toexpect and what penalties will beimplemented. We’ve already seensome clarification there.”

If the student claims that therewas no academic dishonesty, thecommittee holds a “hearing” inwhich the evidence is weighed todetermine guilt or innocence.

“This is one of the changes to theold honesty in learning policy, isthat more faculty and students are

brought into the process,” Kemenysaid. “The faculty is no longerjudge, jury and executioner.Hopefully there will be greaterequity and fairness.”

Jones uses a random numbergenerator to select individualsfrom the pools of students and fac-ulty. In special cases, he rules outcertain participants – such assorority sisters of the student inquestion, or a faculty member inwhose class the violation occurred.He also blacks out the names ofthe students involved so that com-mittee members do not know thenames of the students accusing orconfessing.

Each committee member signs aconfidentiality agreement and isthus bound to refrain from gossip.Though there is no guarantee ofanonymity, confidentiality is takenseriously. Each meeting begins andends with Jones’ caveat: “I remindyou not to discuss this with anyone– not even that there was a hear-ing.” Only the Provost’s officetracks whether a student has beeninvolved in multiple incidents.

Any decision of guilt must bedecided by a supermajority ofseven committee members. Thisensures that the five faculty mem-bers can never be pitted against thefive students.

“If a student is innocent, they areinnocent,” Kemeny said. “Often

there are very reasonable explana-tions [for perceived violations]. Allrecords are destroyed and there isno trail. When it is resolved, theyfill out a resolution and nothing issaved in the Provost’s office – it’slike it never happened.”

Elections will soon be held todetermine the members of the stu-dent-faculty review committee forthe 2009-2010 academic year. Lastyear, 92 students submitted theirnames for election and over 1,000students participated in voting.Candidates for the student-facultyreview committee must have aminimum grade point average of2.0, and the administration hopesto draw a variety of students intothe group.

To students interested in runningfor the committee, Kemeny said,“Go for it. This should be seen asone of the most responsible, presti-gious, worthwhile endeavors andopportunities that students havebefore them … The integrity of theprocess is contingent on theintegrity of the people.”

“We were really pleased with thewidespread support from studentslast time, and we’d like to see thatagain,” Jones said. “This should besomething that people actuallyaspire to on some level. If youwant to be recognized by yourpeers, I should hope you will wantto be recognized for integrity.”

Czech Prime Minister Mirek Topolanek said Wednesday thatPresident Barack Obama’s new plan to spend $2 trillion more to digthe U.S. economy out of the recession is a “road to hell” which theEU cannot follow, the Associated Press reported.

“It was the strongest pushback yet from a European leader as the27-nation bloc bristles from U.S. criticism that it is not spendingenough to stimulate demand,” AP reported.

After Topolanek’s comments, many European leaders haveresponded by claiming that they don’t agree; some agreed with theCzech Prime Minister but many, including leaders of France, Britainand Germany, simply ignored his remarks.

Obama visits Europe on Apr. 2 for the G-20 summit in London,England. The recession is to be the main topic of conversation.

Life 9The CollegianMarch 27, 2009

SudokuInstructions:Fill in the grid so thatevery row, every column and every 3x3box contains the digits1 through 9.

The catch is ...* a number canappear only once ineach row* a number canappear only once ineach column* a number canappear only once ineach 3x3 box

The Bay State BiasBy Shawn McGonagle

Turn upsidedown for solution.

Courtesy of www.sudukogame.com

THE CAREER CORNERBecoming a ‘City on a Hill’By Alma Jean MitchellCollegian Writer

Junior Emily Vaccaro started tosee the depth of need in the GroveCity area when she collected agroup of upperclassmen to help outat the Orientation Board’s Day ofCaring in the fall of 2008.

Matched with community needsthrough the Grove City UnitedWay, the grove spent the day help-ing a lady named Darlene withsmall tasks such as raking leaves,painting a fence, trimming a hedgeand cleaning windows.

Junior Shawn Gerber said, “[Itwas] such an awesome experiencethat we decided to try and comeback and rake Darlene’s leaves laterin the season.” Gerber, Vaccaro andothers started talking about howmuch they wanted to help out withother basic needs in the community.They also recognized a significantproblem for Grove City Collegestudents: a desire to serve but noidea where to start.

“All needs are important,”Gerber said, “but the most appar-ent needs are those of the elderlyand of the many people who aresuffering from poverty and whodepend on the food pantry.”

After their eye-opening experi-ence in the world outside of thecampus, Vaccaro and Gerber weredetermined to share their insightwith other students. Gerber said,“The relationship that we formedwith Darlene throughout theprocess definitely served as part ofour motivation, as well as theAwakening movement that juniorKirsten Rodgers put together.”

Seeing the needs in the commu-nity, they were motivated to act on

Christ’s command to love yourneighbors as yourself. Vaccarosaid, “As we continued to talk toothers about potentially startingsomething, we only received posi-tive feedback and heard a desire toserve in the heart of the studentbody.”

This student response ledVaccaro and Gerber to start whatthey call “City on a HillMinistries,” whose goal is to con-nect students and staff with regularservice opportunities in the com-munity. Their vision is to be the“middle man” who will foster thegrowth of relationships betweenthe College and the community.Gerber said that City on a HillMinistries is not limited to agroup: they hope to create a web-site that will “connect willing ser-vants with needs that match theirinterest and availability.”

Vaccaro said she would love tosee students using their diverse tal-ents in the service they do. Shesaid, “If someone loves music,let’s create a coffeehouse environ-ment for people who come to thefood pantry. If someone loves toknit, let’s set them up with a placeto donate the things they make. Ibelieve that God gave us all specif-ic gifts – let’s use them for hisglory through service to the com-munity!”

The Grove City United Way,who originally connected Vaccarowith Darlene, is an integral part ofthe relationship between City on aHill Ministries and the surroundingcommunity. The staff at the UnitedWay has been working to find newprojects and service opportunities,and it is currently recruiting groupsto participate in the next Day of

Caring.Gerber and Vaccaro acknowl-

edge that City on a Hill Ministriesis still in the developmental stage.So far they are off to a great startand are excited about what is tocome.

Gerber strongly encourages stu-dents to seek out opportunities toget involved in the off-campuscommunity. “If you have a ser-vant’s heart and are looking forways to let your cup overflow,then talk to us. We’ll try to sendyou in the right direction,” he said.

Vaccaro believes that one of thegreat things about being involvedin City on a Hill Ministries is theflexibility: “You don’t have tocome to everything!” She alsoexplained that serving is not some-thing that is a burden but rathersomething enjoyable and fulfilling.Vaccaro currently visits an elderlylady named Jane twice a week,whose “caring yet spunky spirit”always blesses her.

Any students interested in find-ing opportunities to serve can con-tact Vaccaro atvaccaroeg1@gcc.edu or Gerber atgerbersm1@gcc.edu. Vaccaro saidthat the leaders will send out an e-mail to interested people when theyhear about a project.

“It is so easy as a college studentto fall into the trap of being focusedon ourselves – my grades, myfriends, my free time,” Vaccarosaid. “I have been challenged thisyear to rise to the calling Christgives us of surrendering our ownlives to allow Him to work in andthrough us. We have so many stu-dents on this campus – think ofwhat an impact we could make inthis community!”

WestPACsBy Emily DalpiazCollegian Writer

You don’t want to miss theWestern Pennsylvania CareerServices Association Job &Internship Fair this Wednesdayfrom 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at thePittsburgh Indoor Sports Arena.One of the largest fairs in WesternPennsylvania, this event draws stu-dents from over 40 colleges anduniversities that belong to theWestPACS consortium. Over 100employers have already registered,representing a large spectrum ofcareer fields. To view all attendingemployers, visit http://westpacs.org.

Pre-registering for the eventallows students to attend for free.This can be done on the WestPACSwebsite or in the Career ServicesOffice through Monday. Walk-inregistration on event day is $10.

Student attendees must park atthe Pittsburgh Mills Mall inTarentum for free shuttle service tothe Pittsburgh Indoor Sports Arena.

Not sure how to prepare for a jobfair? Here are a few tips to getstarted:

Tip 1: Look over the websites ofemployers you are most interestedin. Websites of all attendingemployers can be found on theWestPACS website. Recruitersalways say the students who standout are the ones who haveresearched companies ahead oftime.

Tip 2: Take copies of yourresume. If a recruiter is interestedin you, he or she will want to takeyour resume back to the company.An in-house referral is the most

effective way to get a foot in thedoor.

Tip 3: Dress as you would for ajob interview. Many studentsattending job fairs do not realizehow important the first impressioncan be, especially when recruitersare meeting with hundreds of stu-dents in a single day.

Tip 4: Brainstorm questions toask before you go to the fair.Having a mental database of ques-tions will increase your confidencewhen talking with recruiters.

Tip 5: Gather contact informa-tion for each recruiter you speakwith to follow up with a letter orthank-you note. Making contacts isjust as important as finding poten-tial employment opportunities.Take time to write your thoughtsabout each company after speakingwith their representatives as well.

The WestPACs Arts Career Day2009 will be held here at GroveCity College on Apr. 22. This is agreat opportunity for liberal artsmajors to speak with professionalsin arts-related fields. Panels willinclude public relations/advertising,fine arts/arts management, broad-cast/television/film, performing artsand writing/publishing.

The keynote speaker for ArtsCareer Day 2009 is Ray Carter,Vice President and GeneralManager of WPXI Pittsburgh.

These events provide invaluableopportunities to connect face-to-face with experts in your field andto investigate a large array of careeroptions. Mark your calendar, grab acouple friends and get yourself outthere. Your job or internship may bejust a networking day away.

Life10 The CollegianMarch 27, 2009

Andy DrabicThe Sign Language Club participated in some of the songs at last Thursday’s all-campus worship service.

Andy DrabicSophomore Melissa McKinney sang with the all-campus worshipteam.

Andy DrabicLeft to right, junior Tina Horvath, sophomore Melissa McKinney, sophomoreDan Van Matre, junior Shauna Kennedy and junior Kevin Schellhase assistedin leading praise songs and hymns

Students gather for worship,

Life 11The CollegianMarch 27, 2009

then for wings and basketball

Courtesy Bob TerhuneSig Madness was highlighted with free food and drinks.

Courtesy Bob TerhuneJunior Mike Soriano and junior Frankie Hourigan make cottoncandy at Sig Madness.

Courtesy Bob TerhuneSenior Bob Terhune makes funnel cakes at Sig Madness.

Courtesy Bob TerhuneFreshman Zack Lewallen and Junior Ryan Lesser sport their SigMadness t-shirts.

Life12 The CollegianMarch 27, 2009

Missionary kids live worldwideBy Beth Hyde and Arielle BatemanCollegian Writer and Collegian Life Co-Editor

The Wargula Family

Anna Wargula, a sophomoremechanical engineering majorserved with her family underthe Navigators mission groupin Okinawa and Sendai, Japan.They spent eight years inOkinawa and another eightyears in Sendai.

Their time in Okinawa wasspent ministering to the mili-tary through Bible studies.While they were in Sendai,they focused more on commu-nity missions. For example,Wargula’s mom started awomen’s Bible study.

Wargula grew up immersedin the Japanese culture, andshe still considers it home. “Idid not feel like a foreigner; Iwas used to it,” Wargula said.

Wargula and her two sib-lings attended a local Japaneseschool from kindergarten tosixth grade and were home-schooled beyond that.

The cultural differences pro-vided some awkwardmoments. A good friend of herdad took the Wargula familyto eat river fish, which areroasted on sticks, skin and all.If the fish are female, dinersare supposed to eat the eggs aswell. When her mom was try-ing to eat the fish, Philippians4:13 was running through hermind, Wargula said.

After coming back to thestates Wargula saw a starkcontrast between the educationsystem in the United Statesand in Japan.

“The kids in Japan havemore responsibility and theyare pushed to learn,” she said.“There are no school janitorsbecause it is the job of theschool children to take care oftheir classrooms and bath-rooms. They encourage themindset of living responsibly.”

Wargula misses her friendsand the food the most. TheJapanese diet consists mainlyof rice, fish and vegetables.Wargula pointed out that Japanis very westernized, whichmeant that she did not have toconsume the local diet all thetime; her mom was able to fixtraditional dishes from thestates.

“The biggest differencebetween Japan and here is thatthe people are more polite inJapan,” Wargula said.

She added, “Respect is a bigdeal, especially when relatingwith the older generation.Another difference is [that]Japanese people are morecommunity-oriented whileAmericans are more individu-alistic.”

The Beale Family

Elissa Beale, a sophomoreFrench/Christian thought major,and Brendan Beale, a seniorChristian thought major, spentover 11 years serving with theirfamily under the umbrella ofWycliffe Bible Translators.

Six of these years were spent inThailand, and the remaining fivein Vanuatu, a series of islandsnear Fiji in the South Pacific.

The Beales have more memo-ries of Vanuatu since they livedthere more recently. Their familyof six lived in two bamboo huts,one functioning as their livingquarters and the other as theirbedroom. Their island containedmany rats, bugs and lizards,though few larger animals.

People discussing missions tendto emphasize the parents’ role,but mission work involves thewhole family. Mrs. Beale learnedBislama – Vanuatu’s national lan-guage – and helped start aSunday school, and their fatherworked to translate the Bible intothe local language. While theirparents worked, Brendan andElissa had their own ministry:serving as secretaries for theirparents, caring for their sistersand doing daily chores.

One important task involvedtoting water to and from thehouse, because there was no run-ning water on their island. Forshowers, they scooped waterfrom a trash can that served as arain water bucket. On one occa-sion, they thought they had a leaffloating in their shower barrel; itwas actually a dead rat. Elissasaid, “[It] had been there forabout a week, so we had beenbathing in decomposing rat forawhile.”

For schooling, Brendan andElissa attended a local Frenchschool two days a week for oneyear. The rest of the time theywere homeschooled.

Their diet consisted of localfresh fruit, potatoes and fish. Acargo ship brought additionalfood to the island about every sixmonths. “My favorite [food] wasthe coconuts,” Elissa said.

The siblings’ cross-culturalexperience changed their perspec-tives on the United States and onlife in general.

“My experience has helped meto be able to see outside of theAmerican, Grove City box,”Brendan said. “Things that seemso important here, like fashion,really are not that important.There are other people in theworld.”

The experiences we have oftenshape our future, as Brendan andElissa prove.

“I definitely want to be a mis-sionary later. I want to do med-ical missions in Africa,” Elissasaid. Brendan shares the samepassion for outreach. He said, “Iwant to be a pastor, [a] mission-ary to the States.”

The Somerville Family

Junior physics educationmajor Ned Somerville is one ofeight children. His familyserves with WorldwideEvangelism for Christ inTicuman, Mexico.

Somerville and his familystarted a missionary trainingschool with the idea of equip-ping local people to hold Biblestudies and other various mis-sionary-led events.

Somerville and his familymoved to Mexico when he was12 years old, and they havelived there for eight years.They built their home fromadobe blocks, although itincludes a wrap-around porchwith a roof, which is uncom-mon in Mexico.

They live near the agricultur-al town of Ticuman, which islocated in a fertile valley in thestate of Morelos, a couple ofhours north of Mexico City.

Somerville had a lot to sayabout the differences betweenAmerica and Mexico.

“In general, the values [theMexicans] have are based onpeople and putting down rootswith each other,” he said.

“People take care of eachother. Family is so important!You don’t see any retirementhomes. It is a very relationalculture.”

He went on to say what ablessing it was to have had theopportunity to live cross-cultur-ally.

“It gives you an added per-spective. Living in another cul-ture is a training ground forputting yourself in someoneelse’s shoes,” he said.

Somerville also expressedinterest in being a missionaryin the future. He is exploringmany post-college options anddoesn’t know for sure whatGod will have him do, but helooks forward to finding God’swill and seeing how the mis-sions lifestyle might fit into it.

The Porterfield Family

Daniel Porterfield, a freshmanEnglish major, lived in Turkeyfor ten years with his sister andparents. Together they servedwith a mission organization thatfocuses on bringing the gospel topredominantly Muslims andBuddhist populations.

Porterfield’s family moved toTurkey when he was five yearsold and ministered for the nextten years by planting churches.Now, his father works as anEnglish teacher for kids withspecial needs. The family contin-ues to live and minister inAnkara while Porterfield attendscollege in the United States.

“At times it is hard being sofar away; it’s where I grew up,”Porterfield said. “I get to gohome twice a year: at Christmasand in the summer.”

His family lives in Turkey’ssmall capital city in apartment-style houses. He explained thatthe people in the city add colorto their buildings by paintingthem. Though the city is verywestern in look and feel, it is notuncommon to see local womenwalking around wearing the tra-ditional head scarf.

Because Turkey’s primary reli-gion is Islam, Porterfield’s fami-ly and other missionary groupsin the area have to take precau-

tions with how they speak andhow they refer to each other.They do not know who might belistening. One time, his motherwas talking on the phone inJapanese, and a voice came onthe line and said, “English only.”

“You don’t say missionary,”Porterfield said. He explainedthat they referred to missionariesas “workers” and used codenames for the different missionsgroups.

As with many missionary kids,Porterfield and his sister werehomeschooled for three years,though they later attended aninternational school located oneblock away from their home.

As with any country, Turkeyoffers unique foods and tradi-tions. “My favorite was Döner; itis a kind of sandwich. Freshlamb meat is cooked and put onfresh bread along with tomato,lettuce and onion,” Porterfieldsaid.

He noticed some big differ-ences when he returned to theUnited States and compared thetwo cultures.

“The conception of time is sodifferent,” he said. “In Turkey,people are more laid back; peo-ple are not offended if you are30 minutes late to an event. Also,personal space is not an issue.People greet each other withkisses.”

When considering his experi-ences, Porterfield referred to“third-culture kids,” a phenome-non relevant to people who havespent more time cross-culturally.Third-culture kids have “one cul-ture that you grew up in, oneculture that you came from –then you make up your own.”His time in the mission field haschanged his view of cultures andcaused them to blend together.

Porterfield spoke of things hemisses most about his home: “Imiss the culture, the energy ofthe city and the warmth of thehospitality,” he said.

Porterfield is not sure whetherhe wants to be a missionary later,but now he enjoys going home toTurkey when he can.

“It’s been a challenge,” hesaid. “You never know whenyou’re going to say good-byeagain.”

Courtesy Ned SomervilleNed Somerville and his family serve as missionaries in Mexico.

Courtesy BealesA bamboo hut also known as the Beale Family residence.

Life 13The CollegianMarch 27, 2009

Freshmen soar over Grove CityBy Camille OrtizCollegian Writer

Your heart is racing as youwait for the door to be opened.As you see the sunlight pourinto the plane, you realize thatthis is the moment you havebeen waiting for. All of yourequipment is on and tightened,and you feel your partnerstrapped on behind you. As themoment approaches, you movecloser to the open door and seethe earth far below you andhear the roaring of the planeengine. Before you have thechance to change your mind,you feel a shove from behind,and you make the jump.

Grove City College freshmanDabney Gordon has first-handskydiving experience. Twicewithin the past year, Gordonhas made the jump at SkydivePennsylvania, located just pastthe Prime Outlets of GroveCity. Her first jump was on themorning of her high schoolgraduation with some of herbest girl friends.

“A few of my friends thoughtit would be a fun thing to dowith each other before we grad-uated,” Gordon said. “Myfriends and I are willing to trypretty much anything once.”

She enjoyed the experience somuch that she decided to jumpagain last summer with anothergroup of her high schoolfriends. As far as being scared,she said the worst part waswhen she was in the plane wait-ing to jump. “I wasn’t scareduntil the door of the plane was

opened and there was nothingseparating myself and theground 15,000 feet below me,”Gordon said.

Gordon describes her skydiv-ing experience as the mostexhilarating thing she has doneso far in her life. While manypeople believe that free-fallingproduces a sinking feeling likeriding a roller coaster, Gordonsaid that skydiving is not likethat at all. “The best way todescribe it is like you’re float-ing,” Gordon said. “It isabsolutely impossible not tosmile when you’re in free-fall,and for the rest of the day forthat matter.”

While many people may bequestioning how safe skydivingactually is, Gordon assures thatthe professionals at SkydivePennsylvania are careful andsafety-conscious. “The equip-ment is checked after eachflight and the airplane ischecked every one hundredhours of use to ensure the safe-ty of its passengers,” Gordonsaid.

For those who have alwayswondered what it would be liketo go skydiving, Gordon strong-ly recommends the experience.“If there’s something you’vealways wanted to do but nevergot around to, then just go outand do it,” Gordon said. “I’vetalked to so many adults whohad always wanted to go sky-diving but just never got aroundto it, and they really regret that.I’d recommend doing as muchas you can while you’reyoung.”

SoundOff

“Many people havestrange irrational fears,all of which end in -pho-bia. If you could invent aphobia that describedyour irrational fear, whatwould it be and why?”

Ichthynatophobia – I amscared of swimming with fish.

~Sarah Beyer, Junior

Ketchmayomustarphobia –I’m afraid of condiments.

~Breyana Lehman, Senior

Pilloflatphobia – fear of myfluffy decorative pillowsbecoming flat. OrNaturostrandphobia – fear ofnot having my hair dyed; fearof natural hair colors.

~Denise Spencer, Sophomore

PDAphobia – the fear ofwalking in the Oak Roomafter hours.

~Luke Juday, Junior

Noonafterphobia – the fearthat when you go to use yourflip flops, they’ll still be wetand cold from when you usedthem for your morning show-er.

~Elizabeth Simmons,Sophomore

Latealarmaphobia – the fear ofmy alarm clock not going off.I often get up six times duringthe night to check it.

~Matt Koval, Sophomore

Lupusdihydrogenmonoxideophobia – an intense fear ofcreeking. This isn’t my fear,but it is the fear of a few boysI know.

~Hannah Schlaudt,Sophomore

Sesquipedilianophobia – fearof multisyllabic words whichhave little meaning.

~Courtney Weber, Junior

By Arielle BatemanCollegian Life Editor

If you have yearned to view thepatchwork of the Grove Citycountryside while you plummettoward earth, you are in luck.Skydive Pennsylvania, located at469 Old Ash Road in Mercer, Pa.,allows the stout of heart to boosttheir adrenaline with a skydivingexperience.

Skydive Pennsylvania offersthree options for first timejumpers.

“We are lucky enough that wehave the staff and the infrastruc-ture that … we can allow peopleto choose,” director Jeff Reckardsaid.

Most people opt for the tandemflight, where they are strappedtogether with an instructor forfreefall and the parachuted glideto the earth.

More adventurous people cantry instructor-assisted free fall,where they receive direct assis-tance from two instructors who

jump with them, but they deploytheir own parachute and landsolo.

The third option is static linejumping, which is essentiallyparachuting as jumpers deploy thechute upon exiting the plane.

The different forms of skydiv-ing require different amounts ofpreparation. Tandem jumping andstatic line jumping costs $229,while instructor-assisted freefallcosts $329. Tandem jumpingrequires a briefing, and partici-pants are almost certain to go thesame day, weather permitting.Both instructor-assisted freefalland static line jumping require sixto eight hours of prior instruction,and participants might not be ableto jump the same day.

Some people schedule theirjump in advance. But if peoplecall on the same day that theywould like to jump, SkydivePennsylvania can almost alwaysaccommodate them.

Reckard knows that first timejumpers struggle with intimida-

tion, but he believes that the realissue for people is the “unknownfactor.” Contrary to commonfears, parachutes do not easilyfail. He said, “Parachutes areunbelievably reliable pieces ofequipment.”

Still, Reckard said, “Jumpingout of an airplane is a very unnat-ural action. ... You will be scaredthe first time you jump. It’s ahuge red flag when someone isn’tnervous at all.”

Reckard and his brother startedSkydive Pennsylvania in 1993. Aself-described “passionate skydiv-ing enthusiast,” Reckard said,“Western Pennsylvania didn’thave a modern skydiving centerlike you might find in other partsof the country. We saw a void. Weneed to bring skydiving to [it].”

Skydiving has increased inpopularity, resulting in three-and-a-half million jumps per year.The skydiving center bringsmany non-residents to the area asit facilitates approximately 6,000jumps annually, Reckard said.

Less than 15 percent of thejumpers come from the localarea.

In light of his unique profession,Reckard said, “I’m a pretty luckyguy.”

Courtesy Dabney GordonFreshman Dabney Gordon prepares to leap from a plane.

In Chapel this weekSunday, March 29Vespers: “Forgiven”

Monday, March 30Alternative Chapel, 7 p.m.Dr. Derek ThomasReformed TheologicalSeminary, Jackson, Miss.

Tuesday, March 31Dr. Derek Thomas

Thursday, April 2John SewardPresident, Strategic ResourcesGroup, Inc.

Courtesy Dabney GordonFreshmen Rachel Johns, Dabney Gordon and Shelby Andersonare geared up and ready in their skydiving harnesses.

Itching to make the jump? Skydiving can be a reality for Grovers

ThingsDoto

There’s a slew of seniorrecitals this weekend in theRecital Hall of Pew Fine ArtsCenter, so be sure to witnessthe talent of your peers. Checkout Nathan Bryant and KevinEtzler at 7 tonight; James Cainand Brian Jinks at 2 p.m.tomorrow; and Beth Lincolnand Jessica VanDervort at 2:30p.m. Sunday.

Come listen to the tunes ofLed Zepplin and Stevie RayVaughn as the Crons’ Houseof Blues features the BurtBarrel Blues Band at7:30p.m. tonight in Ket Rec.The admission is free andfree coffee and bagels areavailable to snack on.

If you’re into downer movieswith a positive message,Steel City Ministries willpresent a showing of the film“The Pursuit ofHappyness” in the TLCAuditorium Wednesday, April1 at 6:30 p.m. Pizza will beserved at 6:20 and donationsfor Homeless Ministry areaccepted. An optional discus-sion will follow the film.

The Etiquette Dinner isMonday, March 30 at 5:00p.m. in Old Map. The event issponsored by AWS and Mrs.Paxton will be teaching prop-er etiquette to us uncouth stu-dents. To attend, RSVP togccaws@gmail.com withyour name and ID number.

Dead Horse Films presentsthe dystopic movie“Gattaca,” starring EthanHawke and Uma Thurman,tonight at 7p.m. in the TLCAuditorium. Dr. JonathanKolm will lead the discus-sion.

Dream Works’ “Monsters v.Aliens” begins its week longrun at the Guthrie tonightwith showings at 7 and 9p.m.Saturday and Sunday mati-nees at 2 and 4p.m.

– Compiled by Kelsey Keating and

Anna BrinkmanEntertainment Editors

Entertainment14 The CollegianMarch 27, 2009

RESTAURANT REVIEW

A taste of eastern AfricaIndulging in fine Ethiopian cuisine

at Abay in Pittsburgh

RESTAURANT REVIEW

New downtown restaurant has something for everyone

By Anna WoodCollegian Writer

It’s unlikely Jordan Zorbas everthought he would be the boss of arestaurant at the ripe old age ofseven. And yet his parentsbestowed upon him a restaurantin his name.

Monday afternoon, communitymembers and the board oftrustees gathered with the Zorbasfamily outside their new estab-lishment, Jordan’s Restaurant andPizzeria, located next to GraceUnited Methodist on Broad Streetin Olde Town.

Mike and Tess Zorbas stoodproudly beside their son as he cutthe ribbon signifying the openingwith scissors taller than he was.

“He loves the restaurant,”owner Mike Zorbas said.

Monday afternoon was a spe-cial day not only for the ribbon-cutting but also for Jordan’sbirthday. He pranced aroundcheerily, telling all the patrons hewas the boss and taking orders onhis tiny note pad.

The restaurant itself has been ayear and a half in the making. “Iwanted to have a place wherepeople could just come in and sitdown,” Zorbas said.

He continued by saying he

wanted to focus on the family-style restaurant, and this is a fam-ily endeavor. Zorbas is the headchef and his wife, Tess, is thewaitress.

Despite its newness, the foodhas the taste of a good, old stylerestaurant but remains uniquebecause of the variety of its menuselection and for reasonableprices.

There were a few dishes with

Filipino flavor as well as all-timefavorites.

Jordan’s boasts an array of fla-vor that will please everyone,including classic personal andgroup-sized pizzas and spaghettidishes. Refreshing salads, savorythree-cheese grilled cheese sand-wiches and juicy burgers all holda place on the menu along withsubs and various Greek dishes.

As we sat at the table, every

mouth watered as the appetizersof fried mushrooms and chickenstrips appeared. Each bite contin-ued to burst with flavor and grati-fy the taste buds.

The pizza was delicious withjust enough sauce that the dishswam with flavor. For those whoenjoy a thicker, fluffier crust, thisis the pizza for you.

“I’ve gotten rave reviews aboutit,” Zorbas said. “Many peoplesay it’s the best pizza in thearea.”

Thick, old fashioned fries wereserved with every sandwich at noextra charge. In honor of Jordan’sbirthday, each meal was servedwith a free slice of moist choco-late cake topped with creamychocolate icing. The desserts sit-ting in a case, pleading to be con-sumed, appeared very delectableas well.

The atmosphere was relaxedand friendly. Every customer leftJordan’s with a full and satisfiedstomach, and every heart waswarmed by the friendly andobliging service.

So if you’re walking back fromthe Guthrie one night or just sit-ting in the library dying for someold town pizza, take a little jauntdown to Jordan’s. It will be wellworth your while.

Courtesy of Anna WoodJordan Zorbas cuts the ribbon at Monday’s grand opening.

By Ryan LesserContributing Writer

I sat back and watched as our waitressplaced a heaping platter of edible goodnessonto the table in front of us. “What is that?”I thought to myself. I smelled cinnamon andcumin and perhaps a hint of curry and spice.Once I began to decipher the various typesof foods which were piled in front of us, mystomach began to growl. It was time to eat.

Abay Restaurant is an Ethiopian eaterylocated just one hour from Grove CityCollege in Pittsburgh, Pa. It was establishedby Jamie Wallace in order to accomplish twomain goals: to offer ethnic Ethiopian cuisineto Pittsburgh dwellers and those in town fora visit and to expand the tastes of a cityoften criticized for an overall lack of diversi-ty, particularly when it comes to dining out.

Upon entering the restaurant, one immedi-ately feels a sense of displacement orremoval on account of the general ambianceof the restaurant. The walls are painted withearth tones and decorated with Ethiopian artand artifacts and the furniture is contempo-rary in style, yet reminiscent of antiques on

account of its dark wood stain. The lightingis carefully dimmed to the point of cozinessand relaxation, while not dark enough togive off any feelings of coldness. Thoseworking in the restaurant are friendly andhelpful but not overbearing in order thatthey don’t detract from the overall experi-ence of the restaurant itself.

Abay offers a full menu, from appetizersand soups to entrees and desserts. Ethiopiancuisine generally consists of spicy vegetableand meat dishes – usually prepared in theform of “wat,” which is similar in composi-tion to a thick stew, and served atop“injera,” a large sourdough flatbread.Ethiopians eat with their right hands, usingpieces of injera to pick up bites of entreesand side dishes.

Ethiopians are generally OrthodoxChristians, Muslims or Jews, so pork is notusually a part of their diet. Moreover, onaccount of various periods of fastingrequired by the Ethiopian Orthodox Church,Ethiopian cuisine consists of many vegetari-an dishes as well.

Abay offers combination samplers for one,two, three or four persons. Such samplers

are commonly ordered at the restaurant forseveral reasons. First and foremost, thisrestaurant is a perfect place to share a mealwith friends or family. Secondly, such sam-plers offer adventurous eaters a vast array ofdining possibilities. Due to the “eat withyour hands; no utensils” nature of Ethiopiandining, one might as well order several dish-es and share them with others.

Once our waitress left us with the heapingpile of culinary delight, my friends and Ibegan tearing off pieces of injera and usingthem to pick up various dishes to eat. Wehad beef, chicken and an assortment of veg-etables. We even had a lamb dish, which wasa special for the evening. Everything wasabsolutely delicious.

Between the ambiance created by the dec-orations, color scheme and smells; theimpeccable service and the food itself, myevening at Abay was quite a dining experi-ence. For those of you looking to try some-thing new or desiring more of a culturalexperience than a simple meal, I would rec-ommend dining at Abay.

Check out their website atwww.abayrestaurant.com.

Entertainment 15The CollegianMarch 27, 2009

Perspectives16 The CollegianMarch 27, 2009

TheCollegian

Editorial StaffEditor-in-Chief:

Darin MillerManaging Editor:

Sarah Beth Gross Senior Copy Editor:

Kelley SmithLayout Editor:

Megan OsborneCopy Editors:

Andrew HartCorrie SchwabErin McHugh

News Editor:Anne Marie Booth

Life Co-Editors:Kelli Gradel

Arielle Bateman

Entertainment Co-Editors:Kelsey KeatingAnna Brinkman

Sports Co-Editors:David Janssen

Kevin SchellhasePhoto Editors:

Andy DrabicJoshua Kitamura

Business StaffBusiness Manager:

Karen BourquinAdvertising Manager:

Sammi VermilyaDistribution Manager:

Brandy Tillow

AdministrativeStaff

Administrative Adviser:Amy Clingensmith

Faculty Adviser:Dr. Jason R. Edwards

OPINIONS appearing on thesepages, unless expressly statedotherwise, represent the viewsof the author and are not thecollective views of TheCollegian, its staff or GroveCity College.LETTERS TO THE EDITOR mustbe no longer than 500 wordsand should be sent to DarinMiller at Box 2197 or Collegian@gcc.edu.

Letters must be received byMonday at 5 p.m. TheCollegian reserves the right toedit or hold any letter.

Anonymous letters will not bepublished.

The Collegian is published byGrove City College, Grove City,Pa.

Since 1891The Grove City

College Newspaper100 Campus Drive

Grove City, Pennsylvania 16127Phone: (724) 458-2193

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PERSPECTIVES ON EDUCATION

Progressivism to makeAmerica the next Babel

By Amy FisherContributing Writer

A trend exists today in oureducational system that threat-ens to turn America into thenext Tower of Babel. E.D.Hirsch, Jr. pointed out in hisbook, “Cultural Literacy,” that“where communications fail, sodo the undertakings – that is themoral of the story of the Towerof Babel.” Most would thinkthat Americans have no problemcommunicating due to theaccessibility of e-mail, cellphones and wireless Internet.But they are mistaken. Theproblem facing us is more fun-damental than being able to getin touch with someone at amoment’s notice.

The threat to our society isour lack of cultural literacy,defined by Hirsch as “the net-work of information that allcompetent readers possess.”This “network of information”allows you to pick up this news-paper, read an article and under-stand the meaning beyond thetext on this page. Americans arelosing the ability to relate toeach other because the knowl-edge they have in common isslowly decreasing. The reasonfor this upsetting phenomenon

is the progressive trend in edu-cation.

Progressivism, the idea thatchildren should learn what theywant to learn at their own pace,snubs rote memorization, seeingit as merely “trivia” that has nohigher importance. This trivia,however, is the knowledge allAmericans should share in orderto relate to each other. The lackof knowledge that America’sschool children possess today isall too apparent.

There are countless stories ofchildren not knowing who wrotethe Declaration of Independenceor where Chicago is. Or notknowing that Washington, D. C.is not located in Washingtonstate. In one high school Latinclassroom, the teacher was ask-ing the students why Latin wasa dead language. One girl in theback of the room raised herhand to challenge the teacherand asked, “What do you thinkthey speak in Latin-America?”Stories like these should worryany American citizen about thefuture of his or her country’schildren.

Educators have conductedmany studies concerning achild’s ability to read. Thesestudies have found that often theproblem with a child’s reading

is not due to lack of skill. Theproblem lies in the lack ofknowledge needed to understandwhat is being read. The “IcebergTheory” of Ernest Hemingwayapplies here: the explicit mean-ing of a piece of writing is thetip of the iceberg, yet the major-ity of the information liesbeneath the surface. Studentstoday see the tip of the icebergwhile the rest of the meaningremains hidden from view.

Researcher R.C. Andersonfound that humans use “schema-ta” – abstract mental entities –to store the knowledge they readin retrievable form. For exam-ple, when a reader sees the word“bird,” they may think of arobin-like creature. When theword “bird” is used in connec-tion with the word“Thanksgiving,” however, themental image suddenly morphsfrom a robin to a turkey.Readers are constantly selectingthe most appropriate schemataas they digest information.When this schemata is not read-ily available due to lack ofknowledge, reading becomes anarduous and disheartening task.

The common knowledge nec-essary for cultural literacyamong Americans is being fur-ther fragmented as a result of

“tracking” students based ontheir intellectual abilities.Putting the smart kids in oneAmerican history class and thenot-so-smart kids in anotherAmerican history class leads toone group of students beingknowledgeable about one centu-ry in our history, while the othergroup knows about a differentcentury in American history.Students, even if they are fromthe same school, do not possessa common foundation of coreknowledge, leading to a break-down of communication.

All of these problems stemfrom children not being taughtbasic facts in elementaryschool. Despite the currentobjections to rote memoriza-tion, it is the most effective wayto teach our children “the basicinformation needed to thrive inthe modern world.” If childrenare culturally literate, they willbe able to communicate withtheir peers, they will be able tointelligently read a newspaperarticle and they will be able tobuild a successful future. Inorder to avoid a communica-tional crumbling akin to theTower of Babel, Americansmust take a vested interest inpassing on “cultural literacy” tofuture generations.

Calculators in classrooms causeAmericans to lack math skills

By Lori HansellContributing Writer

Americans get their bill at arestaurant and, instead of grab-bing their wallet, they grab theircell phone. Why? They need itscalculator! This common sce-nario is indicative of a largerproblem in America today: alack of basic math skills.

In the age of teaching “thewhole child,” basic math skillsare no longer thought a necessi-ty, especially when calculatorsare so easily available. This stu-dent-centered approach viewsthe requiring of kids to knowbasic math facts as too “tradi-tional” and simple rote memo-rization. Yet, further mathunderstanding cannot be builtwithout these. It is like trying toread without knowing the alpha-bet. Teachers are under the mis-conception that they are helpingstudents by being more “stu-dent-centered,” yet the practiceis having detrimental effects ontheir achievement.

Throughout the 20th century,

math education has followed theoverall education trends inbecoming more student-cen-tered, which has resulted in adecline of math achievement.From 1910 to 1950, the percent-age of U.S. High SchoolStudents enrolled in algebradecreased from 56.9 percent to24.8 percent and the percentageenrolled in geometry decreasedfrom 30.9 percent to 11.4 per-cent. The 1989 National Councilof Teachers of MathematicsStandards for grades K-4 deem-phasized complex paper-and-pencil computations, the use ofrounding to estimate and rotepractice. In addition, they put astronger emphasis on calculatorsfor all the grades, recommend-ing that “calculators should beavailable to all students at alltimes.”

Advocates of student-centeredlearning, rather than the tradi-tional teacher-centered learning,place a greater emphasis on“problem solving” than on com-putation. However, things likefiguring out the tip are problem

solving. You think through howyou get 10 percent by movingthe decimal place one place tothe left, and 15 percent wouldthen be adding half of that.Similarly, 25 percent is dividingthe total in half, twice. None ofthis can be done without astrong grasp on basic math com-putations.

American students today arebecoming too dependent on cal-culators because teachers do notdemand quick and accuratebasic math computations. It isnot demanded, they claim,because in problem solvingknowing what to do is moreimportant than actually doingthe sometimes mundane compu-tations. Yet, look at estimating.It is used in day-to-day life fig-uring out how much you arespending at the store, whatproduct is the better deal andhow much of a certain productyou need. Estimating, again, is aform of problem solving anddepends on basic math facts andbeing able to do quick computa-tions in your head without rely-

ing on a calculator. This change in emphasis away

from traditional teaching is put-ting Americans at an extremedisadvantage internationally. Inthe Trends in InternationalMathematics and Science Study(TIMSS) conducted in 2007,only six percent of Americaneighth graders reached theTIMSS advanced internationalbenchmark in mathematics. Incontrast, 45 percent of Taiwaneighth graders, 40 percent ofKoreans, 31 percent of Chineseand 26 percent of Japanesereached this benchmark.

No one can deny the impor-tance of a solid understandingof basic math facts. Americanstend to think they are the best ateverything, but obviously thetables have turned. As othernations are increasing inachievement, America is rapidlydeclining. When Americans areeating out in other countriesthey should not need to flipopen their cell phones to calcu-late a simple tip. We need to getback to the basics.

Perspectives 17The CollegianMarch 27, 2009

PERSPECTIVE ON POLITICS

Elected officials are not public servantsDear Editors,

“Public servants” is such a funphrase. It fills me with images ofhard working men and womenwho have nothing and keep thebest interest of their constituentsat heart. I see the clerks, tax col-lectors and the legislatures allslaving away for the “best inter-est” of others. Wow – this has tobe the funniest mental image I’vehad in a long time. The reality isthat elected officials can neveractually serve society’s bestinterest. Ludwig von Mises andF.A. Hayek proved this years

ago, but the fallacy keeps bel-lowing from the crack pipes ofour political class.

Politicians are incapable ofactually knowing the preferencesof anyone but themselves and aretherefore unable to allocatescarce resources. Sure, they can“do good,” but at what cost?Consider the Tennessee ValleyAuthority. If you believe ourpolitical class, the entireAmerican South would still beuncivilized and unlivable if itweren’t for the gracious interven-tion of the state. This is simplyfalse. Sure, the state managed to

string up power-lines south of theMason-Dixon, but the resourceswere forcefully taken from otherindividuals and other productiveprocesses.

Anyone who holds an electedoffice ought to never refer tohimself as a public servant –doing so only tarnishes the imageof America’s profit-earning busi-nesses. Profit is earned by a firmwhen the prices of all the scarcefactors of production are lessthan the price exchanged for thegoods by consumers in the mar-ket. When this occurs, the firmhas taken scarce resources and

produced something society findsmore valuable with them. “Publicservants” don’t have prices, prof-its or markets for the goods theyproduce. Therefore, they canonly guess at the values of thosethey claim to serve. Then, inorder to provide the “best inter-est,” they must raise fundsthrough force and coercion, notvoluntary exchange. In fact, thegreatest scarcity politicians haveto contend with is cumulative IQ.

Any member of the politicalclass, whether a mayor, presi-dent, senator or one of our ownclass officers, is incapable of

efficiently spending the moneythey have seized control of. Notone of these individuals canclaim to be a servant to the pub-lic. Politicians of all types areusing taxation to redistributeresources. We need to movebeyond the politician’s claim ofserving the public good and con-sider whether the destruction ofwealth truly worth the politi-cian’s particular view of society’sbest interest. A reasonableobserver will conclude this israrely, if ever, the case.

– Junior David Gernhard

From devastation to restoration

By Brian EckenhoffCollegian Writer

How many times have you stopped to thank God for the lit-tle things in life? In the midst of all you have going on, howmany times have you considered yourself blessed simply tosee and enjoy the colors of the world around you?

On a recent missions trip to Waveland, Miss., I met some-one who regularly does. Her name is Sheryl Adams, and fromher I learned that I have much to be thankful for.

I went down to Waveland this past Christmas break with mydad and three men from our church. By spending a week vol-unteering at the Christian Life Center, we hoped to help withthe reconstruction of homes damaged by Hurricane Katrina.

When Hurricane Katrina devastated the Gulf Coast, sheleft behind nothing but tons of debris, hundreds of uprootedtrees and thousands of people in need, especially in thesmall beachside town of Waveland.

On Aug. 25, 2005, the eye of Hurricane Katrina, and thenearly 35-foot tidal surge brought with it, passed directlyover Waveland and leveled nearly every building in sight.

I did not know what to expect as our group made the 22-hour drive down to Waveland. A part of me was ready to seewidespread devastation. Another part of me, though, wasready to see God move in tremendous ways.

Like I half expected, there were still boats on land, peopleliving in dirty FEMA trailers and vacant properties wherehouses once stood. I did not expect, however, to meet some-one like Sheryl Adams.

To me, Sheryl Adams embodied the resiliency of her town.Like Waveland, she was not remarkable for her size or staturebut for her beautiful spirit of hope and restoration. In themidst of my week working on homes in Mississippi, thesetwo words kept coming to mind: hope and restoration.

Everywhere I looked, there were still visible signs ofdestruction, but when I looked closely, I could clearly seeGod’s ministry at work.

For over a year, Sheryl Adams and her husband, David,lived in a tent on a concrete slab underneath their house, andyet they were not bitter toward the Lord. Instead, Sheryl wasthankful for how God had provided for them day in and dayout.

“I thank God all the time,” Sheryl said. “I thank Him for thebirds … the blue jays, the owls and especially the humming-birds. I thank Him for the colors. Oh, I just love all the col-ors!”

Talk about an incredibly humbling conversation. Here was amiddle-aged woman, who had lived through conditions youand I can’t even imagine, praising God for the colors of Hiscreation.

If Sheryl and the other residents of Waveland, Miss. can seethemselves as blessed by the Lord because of the little thingsin life, then we can too.

So go on: Go out and thank God for the astounding array ofcolors that He has given us. By doing so, you just might beable to speak volumes to another person’s heart, just as SherylAdams did to mine.

By Ram GoliContributing Writer

Lately, I’ve noticed people coming up to me andasking if I have seen the movie, “SlumdogMillionaire,” and my thoughts on it. I wasn’t sure whyI was being specifically targeted with this question.Some say it is because I grew up in India. I disagree.I think it’s because I look like Jamal, the guy whoplays the lead role in the movie. I’ll answer a few fre-quently asked questions here about India and thismovie to save myself from repeating the sameanswers to different people. Enjoy the curry.

One: Do people kiss in India?Nope. Since Indian Independence in 1947 from the

British Empire, couples stopped kissing. It is still amystery where 1 billion people come from.

Of course people kiss in India. Not in publicthough.

Two: Do people break out in random dances likethey do in Bollywood movies?

It only happens on the silver screen where the guysees the girl on the road and breaks out into a dancefor her. In reality, it is a big deal in India just to crossthe road without breaking your leg.

Three: Are you going to have an arranged mar-riage?

After four years of harassment, this is the bestanswer I could come up with: “Heck yeah, a marriagearranged by God!” Giving a “yes” or “no” answer tothis question leads to series of other questions afterwhich I wished I’ve never been born.

Four: Do love stories like “Slumdog Millionaire”really happen in India?

Love stories happen everywhere. Behind everyJamal (lead actor) is a Latika (lead actress). Here ismy romantic story. Think of it as “InternationalAffairs.”Before the days of ubiquitous iPods, I lived in India.Although I attended a co-ed school, boys and girlshardly communicated with each other. I don’t remem-ber talking to a girl for more than half a minute untiltenth grade. Nor did I shake girls’ hands. If you arewondering if I ever hugged a girl in India, I wouldhave gasped, “How could such dirty thoughts crossyour mind?” You get the picture. I don’t have toextend your imaginations into other diabolical acts.

I remember in ninth grade, I would peek at thisangelic blue-eyed, brown-haired girl out of the cornerof my eye (Why is an Indian girl blue eyed? Geneticmishap?). My heart would strangely pulsate faster.Then I would suddenly start staring at Mr. SleepingPill or Dr. Hitler-in-disguise teaching Math or Hindi,

so that I wouldn’t leave any evidence of rubberneck-ing at this girl. Her voice, soothing to the soul, hersmile an antidote to depression, her gentleness animperative for bliss, the twinkle in her eye and dim-ples on her cheeks making life worth living!

One day as I was deeply pondering my chances withher, intentionally or accidentally, she looked back atme. Voila! I was in a relationship. At least, that’s whatI perceived it to be. Now in the hindsight, I realize itto be real-insane-ship and not relationship. Here, weask our peers questions like, “How long you’ve beendating him/her?” Conversely, “How long have youbeen peeking at her?” would be a categorically betterquestion to ask me. What about the break up? It hap-pened when a handsome guy in our class got rid of hisbraces. You connect the dots. Even after six years, Istill wonder about my prospects if the other guy didn’thave enough money to visit an orthodontist.

Woe is me, not all romances end in happily “Jai-ho”ever after.

Five: What do you think of Slumdog Millionaire?It is a well made movie, and, of course, poverty in

the movie has been romanticized. It had to be, becausepoverty in its original form is uncomfortable andrepulsive. Everyone has a heart that beats for romance– in the East and in the West. The romance story iswhat gave the movie an international spotlight.Hopefully it serves as a creative way to reach the poorand the broken.

INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVE

Native of India reacts to ‘Slumdog Millionaire’

PERSPECTIVE ON MISSIONS

The surprise hit ‘Slumdog Millionaire’won eight Oscars.

Sports18 The CollegianMarch 27, 2009

MEN’S AND WOMEN’S VARSITY TRACK AND FIELD

Track team starts strongMEN’S VARSITY TENNIS

Wolverines lose two,rebound for PAC win

By Laura KollerCollegian Writer

At the first track and field meetof the season, partial teams fromGeneva, Slippery Rock and Thielcompeted against Grove CityCollege on March 24 at ThornField. Under the leadership ofhead coach Allison Williams, theGrove City track and field teamis focused on building unitythrough each member’s contribu-tion to the team as a whole.

Both on and off the track, theathletes performed their best asindividuals and as teammates.Junior Megan Markley, part ofthe team leadership committee,was injured but still cheered dur-ing every race and organized thehand timers at the finish line.

“This was a good time to getpractice, and everyone showedsupport for one another,”Markley said.

Seven senior standouts placedin the top three in their events onthe track. Seniors Tim Palma,Charlie Roth and Chris Allebachplaced second along with sopho-more John Fite in the 4x100meter relay with a time of 44.88.Roth also took third place in the100-meter dash.

Senior Kristen Carter won boththe 800-meter run and the 1500-meter run, while senior DarinMiller finished first in the 800-meter in less than two minutes,1:59.03. To cap off the meet onthe track, seniors Dan Spauldingand Tim Su took first and secondplace, respectively, in the 5000meter run with times of 15:53.76and 16:45.25.

Grove City swept the men’s1500-meter run with a trioincluding junior Derek Kruse infirst, junior Frankie Hourigan insecond and sophomore Cordell

Oberholtzer in third. JuniorAndrew Falcone won the 3000-meter steeplechase, and sopho-more Brigitte Fryan placed thirdin the 1500.

“Overall, I was very impressedwith how the team did today,”Carter said. “I was pleasantlysurprised by the freshmen, con-sidering their level of experienceon the collegiate level.” GroveCity's freshmen showed formida-ble talent at the meet.

Freshman Morgan Osterhouseran uncontested in the 3000-meter steeplechase but finishedwith a time of 14:10.69. Fellowclassmates Heather Good, MaryTrease and Emily Pietrucha allplaced second in their events:100-meter hurdles, 200-meterdash and 800-meter run, respec-tively.

On the freshmen men’s side,Nick Philpot won the 400-meterdash in 53.56 seconds, andLester Bragg finished third in the200-meter dash.

In the field, Grove City ath-letes swept the men’s discus and

shot put. Junior Tony Clark wonthe discus with a throw of 43.31meters, and junior Matt Ridgeplaced first in the shot put with13.65 meters. Sophomore KateBalmer not only won the 100-meter dash on the track but alsotook third in the long jump.

Freshman David Ferreiraplaced second in both the longjump and the triple jump, whilesophomore Christen Vallimontalso took second in the triplejump. Senior Megan Fellowsand freshman Rachel Weeberplaced second in the discus andthird in the shot put, respective-ly.

“I had a great day, and so didmy teammates. We work togetherwell, and the rest of the seasonwill be exciting,” Ferreira said.

“This was a great day. We per-formed our best, and it’s only thebeginning," Williams said. TheGrove City College track andfield team will compete againtomorrow at CaliforniaUniversity in the Western PAChampionships meet.

Josh KitamuraSophomore thrower Pete Polesnak practices for the javelin.

By Jared BaileyCollegian Writer

After building a strong 3-0record, Grove City men's tennis(3-1) picked up its first loss ofthe season March 19 at the GroveCity home opener.

The Wolverines fell to the visit-ing Purple Raiders of MountUnion by a score of 5-4. Eventhough the Wolverines managedto win two of the three doublesmatches, they dropped four of thesix single matches, whichbrought about the loss.

Grove City’s lone singles winscame from sophomore RickyGarrett (2-6, 6-3, 6-1) and fresh-man Scott Yanak (6-4, 6-4).

The Wolverines returned toaction on March 24 and pickedup their second loss of the seasonby dropping the match to thehost, Malone, by a score of 6-3 atthe North Canton Racquet Club.The Pioneers of Malone claimedfour of the six singles and two ofthe three doubles matches.

Grove City’s lone singles winscame from sophomore MarcMentzer (7-5, 6-4) and seniorKyle Johnson (6-0, 7-6). GroveCity's lone doubles win camefrom senior Jeremy Dwyer andjunior Bill DeRocha who beat thePioneer team of Tim Springirth

and Dan Fahl by a score of 8-2. Looking to return to winning

form, the Grove City tennis teamhit the courts and picked up itsfirst win, improving to 4-2 over-all and 1-0 in the Presidents’Athletic Conference. This matchon Tuesday, March 24 broughtnew life to the Wolverines asthey blanked the WaynesburgYellow Jackets by a score of 9-0.

Grove City went 9 for 9 andwon all matches against the host-ing Yellow Jackets. Standout per-formances included juniors PeterDavis and Bill DeRocha whoblanked their individual oppo-nents by scores of (6-0, 6-0)each.

Davis returned to the court andteamed up with sophomore RickyGarrett to blank the YellowJackets doubles team of EmileKhoury and Peter Mally by ascore of 8-0. This marked GroveCity's first PAC win of the 2009season.

Grove City returned to actionMarch 26 against the visitingTartans of Carnegie Mellon (11-4) who are currently ranked thir-teenth in the nation for NationalCollegiate Athletic AssociationDivision III. Grove City will hostthe Presidents of Washington &Jefferson College (1-0) on March28 in PAC play.

Teamwork is key in first victory

Varsity ScorecardTeam updates from last week:

Men’s Tennis3/19 – Mount Union 5, Grove City 4

3/21 – Malone 6, Grove City 33/24 – Grove City 9, Waynesburg 0

Baseball3/20 – Westminster 9, Grove City 33/21 – Westminster 2, Grove City 0Grove City 8, Westminster 7 (8 inn.)3/24 – Grove City 5, Saint Vincent 1

Grove City 6, Saint Vincent 5

Softball3/21 – Grove City 11, Chatham 2

Grove City 9, Chatham 53/24 – Pitt-Greensburg 1, Grove City 0

Grove City 8, Pitt-Greensburg 7

Wolverines open conference playMEN’S VARSITY BASEBALL

By Cory MetcalfCollegian Writer

The Grove City baseball teamopened conference play with athree-game series against theTitans of Westminster College onMarch 20 and 21. The teamstruggled offensively after a threeweek layoff between their springFlorida trip and their northernschedule.

In Friday’s effort, theWolverines took a 3-1 lead in thetop of the fifth with help from arun-scoring single off the bat ofsenior first baseman BradStombaugh.

The lead lasted only until thebottom half of the inning asWestminster was able to tie andeventually take the lead in the

sixth inning on a solo home run.The Titans went on to put aninsurance run on the board whileadding four more in the eighth.

Junior Mike Herringshaw madea solid start, going 6 2/3 inningswhile allowing 4 earned runs on11 hits. He struck out two in theouting.

On Saturday, the series came toGrove City as the Wolverineslooked to take advantage of theirhome field. In the first game ofthe double header, the Wolverineswere held to just two hits in acomplete game shutout. Takingthe loss was sophomore pitcherCory Metcalf, who allowed justtwo runs on six hits while strik-ing out three.

See Baseball, page 19

Dr. Fred JennySenior Zach Hillegas took a no-hitter into the sixth inningTuesday against Saint Vincent.

Sports 19The CollegianMarch 27, 2009

By Ryan LesserContributing Writer

The Grove City College men'sclub lacrosse team came awaywith two victories after a double-header at home last Saturday. Themen won their first game 9-4against Wheaton on Saturdaymorning.

Later that day they had aresounding victory over PennState Behrend. The Wolverinesscored eight goals in the gameand held Penn State Behrend tojust one goal.

The team opened its seasonwith a 13-2 victory over KentState on Feb. 23. Since then, theWolverines have defeated everyteam they have played, includingPitt in their scrimmage on March18. After four solid victories intheir first four games, the teamhas much to look forward to forthe rest of the season.

The team is led by seniors PeteTooley, Joel Stiff and EricRumbaugh.

“The leadership of this teamwill play a big part in determin-ing how much success we willachieve throughout the rest of theseason,” Stiff said.

Talented new additions, includ-ing freshmen KellenQuackenbush and Tim Irwin,have also played key roles in theteam’s success thus far. Irwinleads the team in goals scored,along with senior Joel Stiff.Quackenbush, usually a mid-fielder, has been playing attackfor the past few games onaccount of the absence of JoshHostetler, a junior who has beenout-of-commission due to a punc-tured lung.

There are several componentsto fielding a successful lacrosseteam. First and foremost, talentis necessary. Between the capa-ble, experienced upperclassmenand the talented new additions,Grove City men’s club lacrosseis not suffering from a lack oftalent in and amongst them-selves.

Second, the team needs to con-sist of members willing to workhard. As shown throughout bothgames on Saturday, Grove City iswilling to work. They got

ground-balls, won face-offs andmade sure to get “into the box”as quickly as possible.

Lastly, and perhaps mostimportantly, each member of theteam must sacrifice his own prideand ambitions for the larger enti-ty, the team itself. The team mustbecome one and work together.

Grove City has five games leftin the season, after a home gameagainst Carnegie Mellon onWednesday, March 25, which theWolverines won 17-7. The men’slast game, which will take placeon April 1, is an away gameagainst Youngstown StateUniversity.

Ultimately, the team wishes togo undefeated throughout the restof the season and ideally make itto nationals.

“I’m excited for this year’steam,” Stiff said. “If we don’tmake it to the playoffs, I’d besurprised. We’ve got a lot of tal-ent on the team this year. Weneed to continue to come togeth-er as one unit, and do all that wecan to increase our chances ofmaking it to nationals.”

This team really has nothing tolose, and everything to gain. Ifthey continue to do well and winout the rest of the season, theyhave the potential to advance tonationals and go down as themost successful men’s clublacrosse team in the history ofGrove City College.

Support YourWolverines!March 27 – April 2

Baseball3/27 – vs.

Waynesburg(H) 1 p.m. DH

3/28 – vs.Waynesburg (A) 3

p.m.4/1 – vs. Saint

Vincent (A) 3 p.m.4/2 – vs. D’Youville

(H) 2 p.m.

Softball3/28 – vs. Geneva

(H) 11 a.m.3/31 – vs. Penn State

Greater Allegheny(A) 4 p.m.

4/2 – vs. Wash & Jeff(H) 4 p.m.

Women’s Water Polo3/27 – vs. Utica

(A) 4 p.m.3/27 – vs. Gannon

(A) 7 p.m.

Men’s Tennis3/28 – vs. Wash &

Jeff (H) 11 a.m.3/31 – vs. Allegheny

(H) 3:30 p.m.4/1 – vs. Case

Western (H) 4 p.m.

MEN’S CLUB LACROSSE

Men’s lacrosse scores double victoryWolverines trounce Wheaton and Penn State Behrend

Dr. Fred JennySenior Pete Tooley fights for defense against Penn State Behrend.

Dr. Fred JennyFreshman Kellen Quackenbush has been valuable as an attacker.

In the nightcap of the double-header, Grove City fell behind 3-0 before tying the game withsophomore Butch Kriger’s three-run double to the gap in left-cen-ter field.

The Wolverines took a 5-3 leadin the bottom of the third as sen-

ior shortstop Ben Wilson singledhome sophomore right fielderScott Moran. Wilson scored on adouble by sophomore DHMarcus Magister. Senior Zach Hillegas earned thewin in relief while pitching onescoreless inning with two strike-outs. Sophomore Kyle Silk start-ed the game while allowingseven runs on five hits. SeniorMatt Tindall threw two scorelessinnings in relief.

Continuing the conferenceschedule the Wolverines playedhost to the Saint Vincent CollegeBearcats on Tuesday, March 24.In the first game, Hillegaspitched a gem while allowingonly one run on two hits throughsix innings of work. He main-tained a no-hitter through five.Tindall held the Bearcats in theseventh to secure the win. Offensively, the Wolverines werepaced by senior center fielder and

leadoff hitter Seth Thompsonwho went 3 for 3 with two dou-bles, followed by senior DHCody Koontz who doubled twice,and Stombaugh who also went 3for 3.

In the second game, Koontzsingled home Kriger in the bot-tom of the seventh to secureGrove City’s third consecutivehome win. Kriger and Stombaughled the rally with singles to startthe inning.

Herringshaw earned the win inrelief while allowing only onerun through 2 2/3 innings ofwork. Sophomore Andy Klimekstarted the game on the hill whileallowing three earned runsthrough three innings of work.Sophomore Chip Hasek worked 11/3 innings of scoreless baseballin relief.

The Wolverines boast a recordof 5-6 overall and 2-3 in thePAC.

Baseballfrom page 18

Sports20 The CollegianMarch 27, 2009

Courage sets NCAA recordMEN’S VARSITY SWIMMING AND DIVING

By Andrew ParryCollegian Writer

Last week the Grove Citymen’s swim team made their wayinto the record books. The teamwent to the National CollegiateAthletic Association Division IIIChampionship meet held inMinneapolis, Minn. and compet-ed over the course of four days.Grove City came back one of themost decorated teams to evercompete on the national stage.

Senior Caleb Courage fromShippensburg, Pa. led the wayon the first night, along withteammate senior Tim Whitbeckof Saegertown, Pa. The men fin-ished second and third in the 50-meter freestyle, respectively,with Courage being the firstGrove City swimmer to everbreak the 20-second barrier. Hisfinal time in the 50 was 19.97,while the third place Whitbeckfinished close behind with20.03.

Courage then went on to com-pete and place in the 100 back-stroke, finishing tenth overallwith a time of 50.46 seconds. Hewas the anchor for the 200freestyle relay, which placed thirdoverall, earning the relay team anAll-American honor. The relayteam comprised senior DrewSnyder, freshman Kirk Gagliardo,senior Tim Whitbeck andCourage.

Courage also anchored the 400freestyle relay, swimming with

Gagliardo, senior Peter Larsenand Whitbeck. This relay teamalso finished third and earnedAll-American honors.

On the final morning, Courageswam the 100 freestyle and brokethe oldest record in Division III,held since 1985 by Kenyon’s JimBorn.

The mark was set at a 43.65,and in preliminaries, Couragebroke that record with a time of43.60. At finals, he won the racewith a finishing time of 43.62,becoming a three-time NationalChampion in that event.

Over the rest of the meet, soph-omore Nate Nielsen, freshmanNick Hamilton, freshman KirkGagliardo and Courage swam the400 freestyle relay and placed12th overall. They swam in atime of 6:47.07, which earned themen All-American honors.

Each of the 200- and 400-meter medley relays placed high-er than expected with incredibleswims not only by Courage butalso by Larsen in the butterflyleg of the 400, sophomoreCamden Coppelli in the back-stroke of the 200, and freshmanClay Beckner in the breaststrokeleg of the 200.

The 200 medley relay placedtwelfth with Coppelli, freshmanClay Beckner, Larsen andWhitbeck. This race earned eachof the swimmers All-Americanhonors with their time of 1:32.33.

The 400 medley relay placedeighth overall, dropping from

being ranked 13th. The team,including Courage, freshman BenBowser, sophomore BennettKeefer and Whitbeck, earned All-American honors with a finishingtime of 3:25.32.

Other notable performancescame from Bowser, who set theschool record on the first day inthe 200-meter individual medleywith a time of 1:52.88, narrowlymissing the consolation finals.Gagliardo competed in the 50,100 and 200 freestyles at themeet.

The overall sixth-place finishwas the highest in program histo-ry. Consequently, the swimmerscame home to a crowd and roarof applause outside of thePhysical Learning Center oncampus.

Success for the swimmers hasnow reached its climax, and theWolverines will start to focus onthe upcoming 2009-10 season.

Senior Drew Snyder Senior Peter LarsenSenior Caleb Courage

Senior Tim Whitbeck

Freshman Clay BecknerSophomore Nate Nielsen

Freshman Kirk Gagliardo

Freshman Ben BowserFreshman Nick Hamilton

Sophomore Camden Coppelli

Sophomore Bennett KeeferArchive

Senior Tim Whitbeck finished his career as a 14-time NCAA All-American.

Eleven All-Americans ranked 6th in the nation