FALL FESTIVAL P.2 SPOOKY SPECTRAL STALKER SHOCKS SEATTLE P.4 SMOKING PORNOGRAPHY P.6

Eastern Mennonite University's student newspaper since 1939 Sen. Barack Obama Rallies Harrisonburg Community Benaiah Wade, Co-editor but also marks the first time a ing, “You don’t have to boo, just democratic presidential candidate vote,” to a resounding round of What do 8,000 people turned has come to speak in Harrison­applause. Sen. Obama also com­ away from the JMU convocationburg since the Stephen Douglas mented on how President Bush’s center on Tuesday have in com­who ran against Abraham Lincoln economic advisor said that the mon besides how intensely cold 148 years ago. President’s economic policies did and tired from waiting in line they Before Sen. Obama’s approx­ not work and Sen. Obama also were? They all came to see Sena­ imately half-hour long speech, made a joke about Sen. McCain’s tor Barack Obama speak but ar­ senatorial candidate Mark Warner “Joe the plumber” argument. rived to lines of eager people whoand Virginia Governor Tim Kaine The audience was comprised had already staked their claims in gave introductions to tantalize theof various groups of people unit­ line. Some members in the front listening ears of the crowd. They ed under support for Sen. Obama. of the line had camped out overannounced their support for Sen.Although the age of the average night in tents to try and warm Obama to applause and intro­ supporter was hard to determine themselves from the frigid cold. duced him to the stage. in a crowd that packed the entire Many EMU students flocked Sen. Obama’s speech could convocation center, it is fair to to hear Obama speak. First year barely go two minutes withoutsay that age groups ranging from Trenea Wilson said she “liked loud cheering from his support­the elderly to children attended. when he talked about hope be­ ers, who laughed at the senator’s The ethnic diversity of the Har­ cause it really touched her.” remarks about Sen. John McCain risonburg community was also She was also able to shake Sen. and President George W. Bush represented in the crowd. Other Obama’s hand when he was exit­ when it seemed appropriate to do groups in the crowd included ing after he finished his speech. so. One such remark was aboutenvironmental supporters that Senator Obama’s visit to Har­ President Bush’s economic poli­ risonburg did not only draw outcies, a to which the crowd booed. large majority of the communitySen. Obama responded by say­ see Obama, P. 2 Gemeinschaft Marches Against Virginia State Budget Cuts Sarah Fields, News editor ment. Harrisonburg has residents shock when Virginia State cut the of the Gemeinschaft Home vol­funds that they need to function. A few weeks ago, members unteering throughout the com­The approximate cost for each of the Gemeinschaft community munity, becoming congregants at resident’s living is about $20,020. discovered that the State of Vir­ various local churches, and work­This is significantly lower than ginia cut funds, which resulted in ing at full-time jobs. These steps the annual average of $35,000 in a challenge for the Gemeinschaft have provided an opportunity forcosts for incarcerated individuals. Home. The members and direc­ ex-prisoners to make changes in Tim Kaine, Governor of Virginia, tors of the Gemeinschaft Home their lives before entering free so­ received the challenge of finding were given a sixty-day deadline ciety. areas to make cuts for the state for to find new funding, or the Most of the residents of the budget. Budget cuts were made house will be closed. house come from therapeuticto the Department of Corrections, The Gemeinschaft Home be­ communities within the Virginia who in turn made cuts to Ge­ gan in 1986 with the goal of “re­ Department of Corrections. Be­meinschaft and similar programs. turning responsible, law-abiding fore being accepted into the More cuts in different areas are residents to their communities.” house, residents must sign agree­ needed in the future, but have not The individuals who reside in the ments of conduct. The housebeen decided on at this point. home become great members of also makes thorough background On Wed., Oct. 29, Gemein­ the Harrisonburg community, and checks. Once they are residents of schaft encouraged members of they live in the house as a transi­ the Gemeinschaft Home, the men the community to participate in a tion home between prison life and work together to keep the housewalk that recognized the possible free society. looking nice inside and out. Theyclosing of Gemeinschaft. Partici­ During the 180-day program, build strong relationships with pants in the walk did not neces­ ex-prisoners live together in the each other through small-group sarily hope for a change in the community house. The programssessions and living together in the choice of funding-cuts, but they David Hawkins range from different areas of coun­Gemeinschaft community. Harrisonburg’s 20 year old Gemeinschaft House threatens to seling to job and finance manage- Gemeinschaft received a see Gemeinschaft, P. 2 close after the state of Virginia cuts funds to meet their budget. Every Three Scavenger Hunt- News Briefs Election Day- Children Concert- Metamorphoses- Participate in a city- Mission Impossible- Common Grounds will Martin Chapel is Opening night for wide scavanger hunt On Sat., Nov. 1 at be showing the Presi­ holding a concert EMU’s first play of with a first prize of 10:30 p.m., meet in dential election on the that tributes African the season is Nov. 6 $60. The hunt begins the Woods Quad with big screen starting at 5 AIDS victim children at 7:30 p.m. on the at 3 p.m. on Sat., your team and get p.m. on Tues., Nov. 4. and five Amish girls. Mainstage Theatre. Nov. 8. Meet at the ready to complete They will also color in The event takes place Purchase a ticket for front entrance of your mission! Pizza a large map as results Thurs., Nov. 6 at only $4. the University will be provided. come in. 7:30 p.m. Commons. 2 O ctober 30, 2008 N ews T he W eather V ane Campus Celebrate Fall with Fest of Activities Obama, Rochelle Fisher, Staff writer Parkwoods cabin for a pumpkin- from p.1 carving contest, doughnut on a As the summer’s night fades string, and a pumpkin pie-eating cheered for Sen. Obama’s green away and the winter’s cold days contest. There was also a camp­ policies by waving green bandan­ loom in sight, EMU celebrated fire for anyone who wanted to as they brought to the rally when­ the fall season with a weekend of tell ghost stories while enjoying ever he spoke about them. activities for students. The cel­ s’mores and other fall food favor­ The main focus of Sen. ebration activities began Friday ites. Obama’s speech was his econom­ night with the CAC sponsored Students braved the cool au­ ic policies and tax plans that he Bam Dance. Students dressed up tumn night and headed out past hopes will vitalize the American and danced to traditional countryParkwoods Saturday night for economy. During his speech he music. a night of fun, food and games. asked the crowd if they made un­ First year Brandon Habron First year Heather Kennel said, der a quarter of a million dollars said, “I thought it was fantastic! “Fall fest was a good idea for a year and had them raise their The clothes people wore lookedthe campus and community. It hands. He said that those who had really authentic and helped set helped bring us together to enjoy their hands raised would receive a the atmosphere. The caller was seasonal festivities. The camp tax break and made a joke about amazing and the band was very fire, the pumpkin- carving, the pie that being the majority. talented. CAC did a really great eating contest made it really fun Another important emphasis job. I would go again in a heart­ and I think a good time was had of Sen. Obama’s speech was to beat.” First year Joel Rittenhouse by all.” get people to vote. He wanted to agreed, “Even though I didn’t The pumpkin-carving contest inspire people to be active in the David Hawkins pursuit of this goal and to try and dance, I enjoyed watching people inspired some students to carveJuniors Sarah Roth and Ben Shank participate in the fall CAC barn dance. make fools > of themselves anddesigns like a cat, smiling faces motivate others to vote as well. I drank about 10 cups of ciderand some a little too interesting all quickly stuffed pie into their shoving pumpkin pie into their He also spoke about the war, edu­ which was fun.” to mention. As some studentsmouths while glancing over to face.” The night continued with cation, struggles in his campaign Fall fest was held Saturday carved their pumpkins and oth­ see if they had any chance of win­ snacks and time spent by the early on, and his faith in the Amer­ night at 10 p.m. following the ers ate snacks, the pumpkin-pie ning. Several contestants lookedcampfire. ican people. To sum up his speech hayrides and men’s soccer game. eating contest was getting ready as if they might not keep the pie First year Anna Woelk said, in one of his quotes, Sen. Obama The rain on Saturday made the to take place. The rest of the stu­ down. After the minute passed, “It was nice to feel like you weresaid “I ask of you what has been hayride’s scheduled stop at the dents gathered around the table sophomore Braydon Hoover offwas campus and in the woods evenasked of Americans throughout com maze impossible, but stu­watching the contestants prepare declared the winner. First year though we were only a minute our history. I ask you to believe, dents still piled on to enjoy a fallthemselves to eat an entire pump­ Kayla Sasser said, “The best part from the school. I had a really not just in my ability to bring favorite. Students gathered in the kin-pie in just one minute. They [of fall fest] was watching people great time.” about change, but in yours.” Gemeinschaft, fro m p. 1 but they hoped that the “support bers of the community who rec­ of the community for Gemein­ognize the importance of the schaft would encourage the state house to help through donating to be more selective in its choicesfunds and taking part in other ac­ of which organizations to close.”tivities they are holding. Fund­ Participants expressed wishes raisers are occurring through­ that Gemeinschaft could possi­ out the area, and the next town bly become government fundedmeeting on Nov. 5 plans to bring throughout the march from the attention to community aware­ House to the Town Center. ness of the situation. Since this particular halfway Smells of coffee and sounds house has done so much goodof a community coming together for the individuals who have drifted through the Gemeinschaft been through the programs, Ge­ house before the walk into town meinschaft anticipates signifi­ began. The residents of the Ge­ cant detrimental results for the meinschaft Home are keeping a community. positive attitude, although the The house encourages mem- risk is high for the closing of their home and transitional pro­ gram. The essence of community was evident in the house through­ out the morning. The high spirits and positive chatter of continu­ a World of Good ing the programs that this house has provided for the last 20 years suggest an attitude of hope that Thrift Sho Gemeinschaft will continue into the future. For under $10, she created a s tyle all her own... and helped pro­ vide breakfast for W here every purchase is Sudanese children. a g ift t o th e w orld.

731 M t. Clinton Pike Hours: Mon.-Sat. 540.433.8844 Harrisonburg, VA 9:30-5:00 www.giftandthrift.org T he W eather V ane F eature O ctober 30, 2008 Restaurant Review: L'ltalia Restaurant and Lounge

Alana Wenger, Co-editor My companion and I began our meal with L’ltalia’s I have always bemoaned homemade breadsticks, which the lack of an Olive Garden were warm, fresh and served in Harrisonburg. However, I with olive oil mixed with herbs. recently discovered a similarly We also had house salads. Our delectable Italian option: L’ltalia server recommended the house Restaurant and Lounge. dressing: a homemade Italian Located on 815 E. Marketthat consisted primarily of Street near the Sheetz and the red wine vinegar and oil, with Saigon Cafe, L’ltalia is less than additional spices and herbs. a ten-minute drive from campus. The dressing was more tart The restaurant has served their than most American ones, but homemade Italian food since was still enjoyable. My dinner 1985, but is currently in a state ofcompanion, who has spent time renovation. Walking into L’ltalialiving in Italy, commented that was slightly disconcerting since the food was “authentically the first visible room was in a Italian” due to the salad dressing state of total construction andand the olive oil with the bread. not even lit. Not only that, but For our main courses, I my dinner companion and I had ordered the Chicken Parmigiana, to wait a minute for the hostess. priced at $14, while my When she arrived, she seated companion ordered the Chicken us in the side room, which also Cacciatora, also priced at had final steps of renovation $14. The Chicken Parmigiana occurring but was not without anwas breaded and covered in overall classy atmosphere and mozzarella cheese and tomato appearance, with appropriately sauce, with a side of spaghetti. dim lighting and well-set tables; The Chicken Cacciatora was creatively folded maroon clothsauteed in a marinara sauce with napkins and candles were Cremini mushrooms and black highlights. olives. It also came with a side The servers were of sauteed fresh vegetables. Alana Wenger conservatively dressed in black,Both meals were delectable; the L’ltalia is located by Sheetz and the Saigon Cafe, offering homemade Italian food. although ours was decked out inParmigiana was sweet and had Halloween accessories, which a soft array of flavors, while thefor a nice dinner out with a a beautiful restaurant is clear, is available at their website, created a slightly wacky air. Cacciatora was tender and had a date or parents. Although the since the renovations thus far www.litalia-restaurant.com, and She was well-informed and tangier sauce. classy atmosphere was slightly were positive changes. they are open Monday through intelligible, thoroughly informing Most of the entrees are on the dampened by the renovations, Until then, stop by and enjoy Thursday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., us of the specials. She provided pricier end of the spectrum, but L’ltalia plans to have the dining the tasty, authentically Italian Friday and Saturday from 4 p.m. friendly, knowledgeable and fast the food quality and presentationrooms completely revampedfood and turn a blind eye to theto 11 p.m., and Sunday from 11 service throughout the meal. is worth the extra cash, especially by January. The promise ofboards and wires. L’ltalia’s menu a.m. to 10 p.m. Foreign Film Broaches Topics of Racism and Justice

Brooke Snyder,Style editor the movies that have been aired foreign culture, but about ourby Harper Lee, tells a story its flaws, and this one is no provided insight into the cultures own country’s not-too-distantset in Alabama, in the 1930s. exception. At times, the movie As anyone who has been of the countries from whence past. Atticus Finch (Gregory Peck), a can seem to get rather preachy keeping up with this year’s they originated. The upcoming The 1962 film To Kill a widower lawyer, decides out ofand self-important. Some of foreign film series can tell youfilm, however, is not about aMockingbird, originally a novelprinciple to defend the case of a the characters are also a tad black man (Brock Peters) who one dimensional. For instance, has been charged with the rape Brock Peters’ character is quiet, of a poor white woman. Racism,seems to do no wrong, and however, is the pervasive norm never makes a fuss about his in his hometown, and the judge situation, making it seem almost and jury want only to convictridiculous that any sane person his client. Other citizens of the would believe the accusations town seek to make life difficultagainst him. Gregory Peck’s for Atticus and his two children, Atticus Finch is almost overly Scout (Mary Badham) and Jem humble and noble, but this is a (Philip Alford). Meanwhile, the fairly accurate portrayal of the children are forced to learn a character in Lee’s book. variety of difficult lessons on the Despite some extremely subjects of justice and prejudice, minor flaws, this film is not only both racial and otherwise. a useful look into our past, but Watching this film not only also an extremely important reminds us of the blatant racism story that must be told. The tale that existed in our country’sit depicts is filled with lessons past, but it also allows us to seethat ought to be taken to heart. both the progress we have made As said by EMU faculty member in this area and the steps away Dan Wessner, who organized from racism that we still need to the showing of foreign films on take. Themes of justice stand outthis campus, “The film speaks strongly, which should make forof... confronting issues of a good reception of the movie onjustice, racism, and community the EMU campus. The fact that strength.” If these are not crucial most of the film is seen through issues, I am not sure what are. the eyes of children adds both To Kill a Mockingbird will an interesting perspective and a be shown in Common Grounds theme of lost innocence. on Sunday at 5:30 p.m. Of course, every film has Atticus Finch defends Tom Robinson in court in the filmTo Kill a Mockingbird. O ctober 30,^ 2008 Style T he W eather V ane Change of Race Saucy Sisterhood Shares Slacks Whitney Miller, Staff writer dig. There, she discovers more for the ending. Although the underlying this album. than she ever planned. The pants were essentially forgotten, “Appeal To Reason” In 2005, Anne Brashares’ pants are somewhat forgotten they still had a significant role kicks off with the driving, novel, The Sisterhood of theuntil the ending, when Lena’s in bringing the four girls back to punk-beat backed “Collapse Traveling Pants, came onto the younger sister takes them with each other again. (Post-Amerika)” an anthem of big screen and became a huge her to Greece and loses them. All in all, the movie, while protest railing against the Bush success. Now, in 2008, the This ends up bringing the four not what lovers of Brashares’ Administration’s occupation sequel to this much-loved moviegirls back together as they books might expect, is still in Iraq. This track is followed has arrived. I debated whether or travel to Greece in search of rather enjoyable. Although the by “Long Forgotten Songs,” a not seeing the movie was worth their beloved pants. movie is clearly meant to cater slower yet unwavering cry for it, because most sequels are huge The movie had its ups to females, men will also find youth to stand up and use their disappointments, but like many and downs. Unfortunately, it the story both entertaining and voices. It includes a steady other fans ofThe Sisterhood, I definitely did not follow theeasy to relate to. Brooke Fansler,Staff writer guitar riff and solid drumbeat. gave in and watched it. It was same pattern as the book. The For those interested, this The lead single, “Re-Education not the best I have ever seen, but producers added different parts CAC sponsored film is set to This week I am taking (Through Labor),” has a surprisingly the movie did not of story lines from the second,play on Friday, Oct. 31 at 10 PM the opportunity to recognize powerful a chorus that is classic follow in the shadow of moviethird, and fourth books. Notand again on Saturday, Nov. 1 group of seasoned veterans inRise Against, backed with heavy sequel reputation. only that, but while the story at 9 PM in Science Center 106. the music industry who have guitars and fierce vocals. Songs The movie starts with the plots may have been interesting, Admission is $1.50 for EMU managed to out do themselveslike “The Dirt Whispered” and four girls (America Ferrera, the events are at best loosely tied students, staff, and faculty, and with a solid return album. “Kotov Syndrome” keep the Amber Tamblyn, Alexis Bledel, together, and all obstacles are $2.50 for other members of the. Rise Against is a punk rock album throbbing by weaving and Blake Lively) separating magically overcome just in timecommunity. band from Chicago, formed in in intricate stories of political once again for the summer, now 1999. With almost ten years awareness. having completed their first year of experience under their Rise Against then goes at college. Carmen (America collective belt, Rise Against deeper into the aforementioned Ferrera) goes to Vermont to take has released their fifth album, issues with songs like “From part in a play with a new friend, titled “Appeal To Reason.” Heads Unworthy” and the only to find that her friend is Rise Against has created acoustic ballad “Hero Of War,” not the trustworthy, supporting a sound that is not onlythe latter of which was based person she had imagined. enjoyable, but also intelligent on stories the band heard from Tibby (Amber Tamblyn) and engaging. Their ability to soldiers in Iraq. The album has a more scandalous summer create music that is both aurally speeds up at its close with when she decides to sleep pleasing and socially conscious“Savior” and “Whereabouts with her boyfriend of ten is another factor that sets Rise Unknown”. months. This results in drama Against apart from so many For all the fans out there, and a pregnancy scare. Lena punk bands and their radio be assured “Appeal To Reason” must deal with heartbreak, counterparts. Knowing that will satisfy. For those of youbut overcomes this when the this is an election year, Rise who have never before heard o f. drawing classes she takes in Against holds nothing back with Rise Against, now is a perfect Rhode Island lead her to meet the strong political messages time to give them a listen. another man. Bridget, unable Alcon Entertainment to deal with her father, travels The four friends relax in Greece in the CAC movieSisterhood of to Turkey on an archaeologicalthe Traveling Pants 2. Spooky Spectral Stalker Severely Shocks Sleepy Seattle Brooke Snyder,Style editor campus are looking forward tois sponsoring a special, midnight Rachel Keller (Naomi Watts), a The story is filled with gigantic the festivities this holiday will showing of a popular horrorSeattle Post reporter who, after the plot holes, and, if truth be told, Halloween is fast approach­ bring. Fortunately for all thosemovie: The Ring. mysterious death of her teenage often does not make any sense ing and people all across students seeking a fright, the CAC This film centers around niece, is determined to get to the at all. The disconcerting images bottom of an urban legend aboutthat the film focuses itself around an unmarked videotape that brings are just that: random, unsettling a grisly demise to its viewers. The images. The film never even so-called legend, however, turns explains many key plot points. out to be not only true, but evenFor instance, the undead child more disturbing than Rachel ever that poses as the story’s villain anticipated. Before long, she toodied long before the invention of has been marked for death. With the VCR, so how did she create Sgis^ W 'T 'mm the help of her estranged husband, the evil videotape? If she was Noah (Martin Henderson), Rachel really the embodiment of evil and m s. i 'SHE| | | h h must search for clues about the had nearly limitless supernatural tape’s supernatural origins and powers, wouldn’t she use them bring a stop to its creator before itto kill vast amounts of people i \\Y is too late. instead of simply those who were One of the best things about unlucky enough to watch a cursed,

9 this movie is the sense of dread homemade tape? These are just that seems to pervade each and a few of the important questions every scene. Even when nothing left unanswered. scary is happening, the film keeps In short, if you are looking for J viewers on the edge of their a collection of creepy images and seats. Disturbing imagery also a chilling tale full of foreboding abounds, and one cannot help and mystery, then this film may but be haunted by it for days. be exactly what you are after. The set itself, which is nearly If, however, you find yourself always grey and dreary, adds annoyed when you come out to the creepy atmosphere of the of a movie with absolutely no movie. Not only that, but Naomiidea what the villain was or how Watts’ performance is stellar and she accomplished any of her extremely convincing. terrible feats, you would do best Unfortunately, this film’s to stay as far away fromThe plot only holds up until one triesRing as possible and spend your Noah (Martin Henderson) tries to escape from the supernatural horror emerging from his televi­ to explain or examine it in depth. Halloween elsewhere. sion in this week’s CAC sponsored film,The Ring. T he W eather V ane Sports O ctober 30, 2008 Player of the Week: Mitchell Leap Brooke Fansler,Staff writer

Q. What is your student status here at EMU as well as your major? A. I’m a first year Business Administration Major.

Q. Where are you from, and how long have you been playing soccer? A. I’m from Harrisonburg and went to EMHS. I’ve been playing soccer since I was five years old.

Q. Why did you choose to come to EMU? A. I came to EMU because I wanted to stay close to home and I wanted to play soccer and basketball.

Q. How has it been to play soccer at EMU and with this particular team of men? A. I’ve enjoyed playing at EMU. I like the facilities, playing under lights and the loud crowds. Also I’m playing with a great group of guys and that has really added to my experience.

Q. How did it feel to score a game-winning goal? A. Scoring a game-winning goal is one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever experienced. I like being able to know that I contributed to the team. David Hawkins Q. What are your hopes for the team this year? First Year Mitchell Leap jumps into the air to challenge the ball that he rocketed past the keeper A. Now that it is tournament time I hope we win the ODACs and win to score the game winning goal against Bridgewater. The men’s soccer team is now 12-6 on the a game in the national tournament. I definitely think we are capable ofseason and 4-6 in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference. pulling it off.

Q. Could you describe yourself as a player in terms of your style and the position you play? A. I would describe myself as a hard worker who will do anything to help out the team. I play forward.

Q. What do you feel are the team’s strengths and weaknesses? A. I feel one of the teams strengths is the ability to possess the ball as well as any team in the conference. The only problem is that we tend to get in a hurry, and that hurts our possession

Q. What are your plans for the fliture and do you plan to continue to play soccer here? A. 1 plan to use all of my four years of eligibility in soccer.

Q. What has been your highlight this season? A. My highlight was the goal I scored against Washington and Lee because that’s probably one of the best goals I’ve ever scored.

Little Grill Collective 621 North Main Street Harrisonburg, VA 22802 m O k ^ - 3 5 % ^ ^ iff. jsfc' ^ Gome Er\joy Our Delicious All You Gan Eat Mexi Night! Tuesdays 5-9pm Senior Katie Lamm led the Lady Royals to their 7-0 win over Hollins with three goals in the game. The Lady Royals are 9-7 overall and 7-4 in the division. aj* .afs % ajs: >j< 3^ ^ ^ ^ - 4 * ^ HourS: TUeS~FH S atu rd ay Sunday This Week in EMU Sports: 7am-9pm 7am-3pm 9am-2pm W omen’s Volleyball: W om en’s Soccer: Nov. 1- Oct. 25- Oct. 25- Sweet Briar 2:00 PM " ? S EmorV& Henry L3-1 Lynchburg L2-0 wiwlittlegrillcollective.com ^ymwmnilir Oct. 29- Oct. 28- Men’s Soccer: Sweet Briar L 3-2 Hollins. W 7-0 Oct. 25- Interested in Sports? Feel like making an impact Nov. 1- Bridgewater W 1-0 in the community? Not living the dream on a Cross Country: at Roanoke 12:30 PM Oct. 28- daily basis? join the Weather Vane staff as a Oct. 25- Emory & Henry W 1-0 at Elizabethtown College Field Hockey: Nov. 1- writer or editor- we promise you may not regret Nov. 1- Oct. 24- Virginia Wesleyan 7:00 PM it instantly. Contact us at [email protected] at Virginia Wesleyan Randolph-Macon W 3-1 O ctober 30, 2008 O pinion T he W eather V ane Ignorant Discussion Frustrates Right to Privacy Protects Pom that centers around discussion, a predominance of ignorant comments are involved, but when the parties privacy of one’s own company, can affect students’ attitudes to the involved are all consenting legal but it actually is beneficial for the class in an extremely negative way. adults it is their personal business public because it pumps billions Some might suggest that I whether they chose to partake in of dollars into our economy contribute to discussion if I find that activity or not. every year. The pom industry others’ opinions frustrating or Everyone has things they do is an intricate part of the rest of uninformed. However, my learning in private that we do not really the entertainment business as a style, like many others, is not one that want anyone else to see or evenwhole that Americans rely on as enjoys speaking out against a large know about; so if pom happens toa mechanism to circulate revenue class. I often find such speaking out be one of those activities then it back into our economy. Some Alana Wenger, Co-editor futile, since it is rarely a discussion should be respected as something people make a personal decision and more often is simply a few that does not enter the social to watch pornography, and that Throughout my school career,individuals offering their opinionsKelly Weaver,Staff writer realm of daily life, but at the same does not give us the right to shun I have grappled with teachers’ and to a desperate professor. In the time, is respected as something them from the rest of society. professors’ expectations of classpast, I have given the pity response The issue of pornography has that people do in the privacy of Each individual should have discussion. Although professorsto professors, probably only tobeen the a hot topic on campus since their homes. Personally, I think the freedom to choose what they often expect and encourage class disgust of many of my classmates.last week’s chapel. Although it that is dangerous to even considerexpose themselves to in their discussion, these expectations Not only do forced discussionsis not a personal hobby, I do notgiving someone else the power toprivate lives. Many may frown have more complex consequencesbecome extremely awkward, butsupport anyone’s right to tell meprohibit something as harmless" upon pornography as a dirty or than many might expect. they also lead to frustration andwhat I can and cannot look up inas pornography from our privateperverse activity, but many more In elementary school, I was student apathy as students learn the privacy of my home computer.lives. can respect the desire to have one of the “know-it-all” girls whoto tone out their peers’ ignorantOf course, there are exceptions, Not only is pornographycontrol over what we choose to eagerly volunteered answers toresponses. Perhaps professors shouldlike in instances where children harmless when used only in the do in our personal time. every question. In high school, stop forcing painful discussion and I suddenly clammed up and lecture; it would be much more refused to volunteer answers.beneficial to students to hear a paid Issue of Tray Removal Morally Clear Now that I have reached college, expert’s opinion rather than a still- the wastewater finding its way concept and practical application I have realized that professor and uneducated classmate’s bias. down to the Chesapeake, we are of a personal as well as communal student class discussions are more Solutions are complex. Class complicit in destroying the lives environmental ethic. complex, ^affecting both students’ discussion may benefit some of the watermen who depend on According to the US learning and professor’s teaching students, but not most. I have found the bay’s health for income. Our Geological Survey, an agency styles in negative and positive classes like those in the Global lifestyle affects others around the of the Federal government, an manners. Village Curriculum to be particularly world, and I am gladdened to see average minute of showering Implementation of class painful—class discussion is often our campus acknowledging this uses two gallons of pure, discussion strongly affects howstilted and irrelevant and participation with our actions. drinkable water. Assuming our beneficial or detrimental it is for is limited to five or ten percent of the Nonetheless, the recent showerheads are somewhere close students. Class discussion in a class. Such poor class discussion spate of attention given to the to that average (though I hope smaller setting is generally more encourages apathy, inattention removal of trays troubles methey are not) if even half of the effective than conversation in and even skipping class. Perhaps Nathan Hershberger, because it reflects the broader 858 undergraduate students here a larger setting. For example, such larger classes should focus onContributing writer societal pattern of overwhelming at EMU shaved a mere minute off last year in a small class of onlysmall-group discussion or simply emphasis on public action and their daily shower times we could six intelligent students, I found on lectures, and leave the whole- The decision to get rid of ignores the role of the responsiblethereby save twice the amount our discussion informative andclass discussion to smaller classes trays in the cafeteria is sound. individual. We, as Christians, currently conserved by the recent rewarding. However, in a class I that can actually benefit students. We will save water and reduce are called to care for each other removal of trays. have this year, with a class size of Meanwhile, I encourage eveiyonefood waste, among other benefits.and the world as one body of I am not suggesting that over 50,1 have learned to loathe it.to think before they speak No oneThese are issues of stewardship believers, the Church, but also as matters of scale should always Typically only a handful of peopleappreciates stupidity, especially and to me, I must confess, seem individuals seeking after Christ. dictate our emphasis, I merely offer their opinion, and often I foldwhen someone thinks an ignorant black and white. Why do we give so much attentionpoint out that individuals, as their opinions uninformed or evencomment is important enough to tell To those ambiguous aboutto this decision but so little to thewell communities acting in downright ignorant. In a class a class of 50. the necessity of saving roughly wasteful habits we each employ? concert, have an impact and are 578 gallons of water daily in the In my short time on the EMU accountable for it. Let us begin cafeteria, I say plain and simply campus I have heard much about to imagine a campus where we that this is a matter of loving our communal desire to live moredo not reflect the individualized our neighbors. When we draw sustainably, from the plans for the apathy of the surrounding world, JH E w ea t h er v a n e more water from the groundnew Suter Science Center to ourbut embody a respect for God’s table than is naturally restored current recycling programs and creation and our responsibility Co-Editors:Benaiah Wade and Alana Wenger we fail to love our neighborsrecent traylessness. These are all to care for our neighbors both as both of the future and the now News Editor: Sarah Fields good and necessary things to be informed communities and ethical who must use that same source. doing. But I have rarely heard individuals. Style Editor:Brooke Snyder When we add excessively to more than lip service paid to the Feature Editor:This could be you! Sports Editor:This could be you! Opinion Editor:Dylan Zehr SGA Hears Smoking Opinions Photography Editor:David Hawkins tobacco products is not allowed Copy Editor:This could be you! the CLC. Some people stated on campus, but yet people cannotthat they have a problem with Staff Writers: Alice Wheeler, Brooke Fansler, Esther Shank, help but notice that students are the smokers on campus releasing John Tyson, Kelly Weaver, Rochelle Fisher, Whitney Miller in fact smoking frequently on“harmful toxins” into the air Circulation Manager:Kara Schlabach Park Road and next to Hillside.around the students who don’t Business Managers:Matt Gehman and Jeremy Yoder And the university is not doingwant to be exposed to cigarette Advertising Managers:Matt Gehman and Jeremy Yoder anything about it. smoke; they also recognized that Faculty Advisor:Kirsten Beachy Instead of feeling hypo­ allowing smoking on campus critical, SGA opened debate about would only allow the smokers The Weather Vane is published weekly by undergraduate students of Eastern Mennonite possibly changing the CLC to to continue being addicted to University. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the university or its affiliates. remove the section about tobaccothe drug and therefore continue Letters to the editors are welcomed; the editors reserve the right to edit letters for clarity and to allow students to smoke,hurting themselves and those and space. Advertising is selective, with preference given to local businesses. The Weather Vane office is located below the IEP house on the EMU campus.The and therefore raised the possibly around them. Weather Vane is entered as first-class mail at the U.S. Post Office, Harrisonburg, Virginia Alice Wheeler, Staff writer of creating a designated area on The students in favor of campus for students to smoke. smoking acknowledge that Semester Subscription: $10 ($15 International) The reestablishment of a Last Thursday night there was smoking is an addiction but said Year Subscription: $20 ($26 International) smoke pit has once again become a meeting in Common Grounds,that there was more to it then just The Weather Vane is printed at: Narrow Passage Press, Woodstock, Virginia. a topic of conversation at EMU.open to the student body, tofilling their lungs with tobacco. The Weather Vane, Eastern Mennonite University, Harrisonburg, VA 22802 It’s an extremely controversialinvite students, smokers and nonSmoking is a social thing where Phone: (540) 432-4338 Fax: (540) 432-4130 issue since it states in the CLC smokers, to give their opinion ______http://weathervane.emu.edu email: [email protected]______that smoking and possession ofabout the possible changes to see Smoking, P. 7 T he W eather V ane O pinion O ctober 30, 2008 Apartheid Parallels Found in Campus Caterpillar Use collective punishment against an emotionally intense summerto “do justice,” my initialportfolios. Eventually, entire family for the “terrorist” encounters of broken homesreaction to seeing this company institutions pulled the financial actions of one member. and lives was three little letters: represented on campus was plug, and the South African It’s important to know that CAT. Caterpillar is the company indignation and anger. While government thought twice about for Palestinians it is nearly of construction equipment thatwe are not directly investing its policies. Similar moral. and impossible to get building is used to tear these homes to the in Caterpillar we do have the financial pressures on Israel are licenses in Jerusalem as Israel ground. They are also the brand possibility of looking intobeing mustered one person at a is trying to quietly push them of equipment that was used to construction companies locallytime. If apartheid ended, so can out. It’s also important to knowtear down Oakwood and cleanwho use alternative equipment. this occupation, but the moral that the construction of the Wall up afterwards. Maybe it’s more symbolic than it force and international pressure far into the Green Line as well After this summer I read ispracticallyfightingthe injustice will have to be j ust as determined. as the entire notion of collectivea lot about the divestment occurring in the Holy Land, but The current divestment effort is Jess Sarriot,Contributing writerpunishment that is against movement that has gained symbols can be powerful. The the first, though certainly not international law. support in the Presbyterian and more mobilization there is forthe only, necessary move in that Since 1967, the Israeli There are families who I met Methodist church as well as the divestment movement, the direction.” government has razed 18,147 during my internship this summer with organizations such as the more awareness of the horrors If Desmond Tutu seems Palestinian homes to the ground. whose houses were built onIsraeli Commission Against that are occurring will rise. too far away, we can heed the Sometimes the issue is that Palestinian land that they’d been House Demolition and ourHopefully it will also lead towords of pastor Phil Kniss who., they are building on “Israeli” living on for generations that own MCC. All of these groups higher international pressure on in his series entitled “Follow land without building permits, were torn down. One family’s are calling for and trying to Israel to change its ways. Christ. Question Culture. Love sometimes it is because the home had been destroyed three implement strategic divestment Archbishop Desmond the church,” challenged us all to apartheid wall is being built times and yet they would notfrom certain key companies that Tutu expressed it well when keep each other accountable in nearby and having a home so move. directly or indirectly supporthe said “The end of apartheid how we invest our money. Are we near is considered a “security” You may be asking, howthe occupation of Palestine, stands as one of the crowning keeping EMU accountable? I’m issue, sometimes it’s a matter ofdoes this relate to EMU? including Caterpillar. accomplishments of the past sure we don’t mean to support What threw me back to my As an institution committed century, but we would notthe occupation with our choice have succeeded without the of construction companies, any help of international pressure- more than the company probably Vertical Thinking Impoverishes Politics in particular the divestment thought twice before buying The assumption that the be to this country, or somethingmovement of the 1980’s.” Caterpillar equipment, but that’s candidates make, and in fact that else? For many on this campus, Divestment from apartheid South the whole problem. many of us make, is that the dirty the most tangible and relevant Africa was fought by ordinary Injustice happens like work is up to us, but not alsopolitical community would bepeople at the grass roots. Faith- entropy, if we want to “do the politics. While we make the the church. When we think about based leaders informed their justice” we have to be much more sacrifices and increase our workpolitics, our primary allegiance, followers, union membersintentional about it. Wendell ethic, they will make the political for many of us, should be to thepressured their companies’ Berry said that deciding to live moves. They will decide who church. stockholders and consumerssimply was one of the most lives and dies in many parts of Not many of us wouldquestioned their store owners. complex decisions someone the world; they will decide who think of the church as a political Students played an especially could make; deciding to do receives money and who doesn’t;community. Nor would weimportant role by compellingjustice also takes a great level of they will decide whose rights are be likely to consider prayer,universities to change their intentionality. to be granted and whose aren’t. communion, fasting, foot- John Tyson,Staff writer In other words, the message washing, or sermons and singing from p. proclaimed remains, do your partto be political acts. Part of this is Smoking Opinions, Time and time again, to make America stronger, and the nature of the American system students who share similar beliefs to international students who both presidential candidates I’ll do the politics. where the church is not exactly and hobbies can connect. are coming from cultures that campaigning in communities The perspective I have located on the margins as it is in Students who hung out at don’t have such harsh rules about nationwide have preached their advocated consistently for is thatmany parts of the world. the smoke pit last year said that smoking. message of unity to Americans. we and others must think about However, the margins are it was not just about smoking All of the opinions put out According to them, Americans politics in a horizontal fashion. exactly where the church is called but more about having a safelast Thursday were significant, must be unified by a commonTo only look vertically to the totwo be, in the form of exile. This place where like-minded people which makes the debate that much desire to overcome the strugglesrich men who are several days is the space where the politics could go and find each other. more frustrating to settle. Having of today’s America. We need tofrom withholding arguably more of church can be practiced while They carved pumpkins together, a smoke pit only encourages a find ways to restore-those “greatpower than any person on the denouncing the desire to obtain discussed religion and politics, bad habit, but obviously students American values.” For a “better planet is a tragically impoverished power or be in control. This isand played guitars over occasionalare going to continue smoking way to think about politics. The America” to emerge, we must where, as participants in the cigarettes. anyway. The SGA took note of sacrifice and work harder. The reality is that we are all capable politics of church, we can strive Someone also mentioned thatwhat the students had to said assumption now so prevalent in of cultivating our own politicsfor peace and justice, and work part of being a Mennonite is being and are planning on submitting within our own communities. our society is that once Americans through the love and charity ofaccepting and hospitable, and so them to the board of directors in understand this necessity, the The candidates are correct in that God, for the hope of makingEMU should show understanding November, and those on the board leaders at the top will make the we must make sacrifices, but for God’s reign visible in margins of and acceptance towards kids of EMU will be the deciders in maneuvers necessary to ensurewhat are we sacrificing? Should the American empire. coming from backgrounds wherewhether such changes to the CLC that prosperity flows for good. our utmost political allegiance smoking is not taboo, as well aswill go through or not. Letter to the Editors I appreciated Andrea were engaging in dialogue with would disagree with me, I do notconservative estimate of the Ahmedinejad actually amended Zilinski’s perspective on the Ahmedinejad in an attempt to believe we are in a position toIraq Body Count Project (somehis position on Israel in several Mennonite Central Committee’s build mutual understanding. judge the ultimate state of a man’s estimates reach over 1,000,000). media interviews. Perhaps this September dialogue with Iranian Refusing to speak with leaders heart, particularly if we refuse to I agree with Zilinski that “hearts was even influenced by MCC’s President Mahmoud Ahmedinej ad we distrust can only continue totalk to him. In any case, is God of people must change in order forpositive efforts to create dialogue (Oct. 16). Our community foster the anger that often leads beyond using our words of peacethere to be true peace and there in a non-confrontational way, benefits when someone is willing to conflict in the first place. to soften even a “hardened” to be a cessation of violence.” I fully agree with Zilinski to critique the Mennonite status MCC’s chosen alternative allows heart? Perhaps the first hearts to change that we must trust in God, pray quo. However, I disagree with for discourse that can remove The assumption that someone should be our own. for direction, and follow the several of Zilinski’s points. dangerous misconceptions aboutis beyond reach is dangerous, To clarify, MCC did example of Jesus when faced First, I am concerned about “the other” and give both sides particularly when many around challenge Ahmedinejad on with violence. I am certain that the use of the word “negotiations”a new perspective with which to the world consider America to several controversial points,if asked, MCC leaders would when discussing this event. MCC frame opinions and policies. actually be a source of evil. including I his disbelief in the confirm that this is exactly what was not attempting any type of deal I am also troubled by the find it difficult to argue with existence of the Holocaust, andthey attempted to do, and I or transaction as in a negotiation,implication that Ahmedinejad is them, considering our war in called for him to correct somebelieve they succeeded. but leaves this type of diplomacy“evil” and has “hardened his heart Iraq has claimed nearly 100,000 of his inflammatory statements. to the government. Rather, they against the truth.” Though some civilian lives, according to the After the MCC meeting, Karissa Sauder 8 O ctober 30, 2008 B ack P age T he W eather V ane Images of Autumn

Infrared images by David Hawkins

On the Sidewalk By Kara Schlabach "I cannot endure to If you could vote for anyone on campus to be President of the United States, who would you vote for and why? waste anything as precious as autumn pm sunshine by staying in the house. 1 "My roommate, Brooke Sayre, "Jackson Maust...why would I "Loren Swartzendruber be­ because she's awesome!" want him as president? 'Why cause of his suits, he already Amanda Styer, first year not' is the real question? ... has the look down." and he has a sweet beard." Jill Swartzendruber, first year So I spend almost Andrew Gascho, senior all the daylight hours in the open air."

"Galen Lehman (psychology "Justin Hochstetler and Joe "Dan Sigmans because he professor) because he is good Hochstetler because my broth­ is knowledgeable and leans -Nathaniel Hawthorne at reading people." ers are just that awesome!" slightly to the left." Matt Swartzentruber, first year Jenny Hochstetler, junior Theo Yoder, first year