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2006 -- 2007 Liberty University School Newspaper

Spring 4-24-2007

04-24-07 (The Liberty Champion, Volume 24, Issue 20)

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CHAMPIOSERVING LIBERTY UNIVERSITY FOR 24 YEARS APRIL 24, 2007 VOL 24, NO.20 VISIT WWW.LIBERTY.EDU/CHAMPION N . WE ARE ALL H K s VirgmiaTecn i

A tribute to those lost at VT

For better or for worse, last Monday's events affected us as a generation. As a univer­ sity. As a nation. It is with that knowledge that we offer our tribute to the 32 lives taken in 32 instants. mi These pages offer hard news, personal accounts and faith in the certainty that death will someday lose its sting. Though a cold spring morning in Blacksburg was dark, and though darker days will come, there is light R-: at the end of the tunnel - Christ in us, the hope of glory. £4 So read. Reflect. And remember not only the 32, 1ito but also Jesus, the One who died for them - because through H4m, death will ulti­ mately be defeated.

- Editor's Note

ALKX TOWF.RS IN MOURNING — Thousands of students, faculty, Blacksburg residents and supporters attended a candlelight vigil held outside Burress Hall last Tuesday night. Earlier that day, a convocation service was held in Cassell Coliseum for the victims and their families, with tens ->f thousands of additional mourners watching in uine stadium, president Bum and Governor Kaine attend.d»nd spoke. as m Lessons learned in wake of tragedy In this By Joanne Tang quietly about Monday's events, oblivious to my have ever had. It gave me perspective, even at the NEWS EDITOR presence. The young man recounted his side of the cost of being a tiny bit scarred myself, and I am bet­ story, from being in one of the classrooms and hear­ ter for it. special I woke up Tuesday morning tired but satisfied ing the gunfire, to being near those hurt or killed. As There is value in bringing a bit of you, putting it on with the previous night's work at the newspaper. As he spoke, he shook as if reliving his memories. One the line for others to see. After all, they're in full issue... I walked around my room searching for a missing of the adults finally noticed me and asked the stu­ view, sobbing without notice as to who is watching. shoe, my phone rang. It was Hilary, the Opinion dent if he was up to speaking with someone. Before To witness that for myself was difficult and moving. Editor, and she asked if I was going to Blacksburg he could answer, a woman stepped in and adamant­ To feel it and be part of it in a very tiny way was Outreach at LU humanizing on a level that most journalism classes for the convocation ceremony. ly said no. It wasn't the rejection that bothered me, do not and cannot teach. Liberty For the last four years I have been a journalism it was the look she gave. It was a look of disdain that If everything is a mission field, then Christian students student, covering special convocations, building is given by people who either don't like journalists or journalists should bring their vulnerability to the showed projects and academic life. This was different. This have been offended by one recently. I had never ————————— encountered that kind table when they ask someone to talk. We have to be • their sup­ kind of national event didn't involve ———— an example, to show people that there are good jour­ port for writing from AP wire reports. I was of hostility before. It Journalists have to stunned me. nalists out there who have a heart, to defy the Virginia going to have a "real" learning experi­ stereotype. Tech by ence. Journalists for the convey emotion, show the most part, I think, are When I stopped looking at it as just a journalist, visiting With Hilary, Marcelo, the Life and started looking at it more as a Christian, I think c Editor and Alex, the Photography kind and caring peo­ LIBERTY *V iS ple. They understand I fully recognized the honor and value in being in the US aIld Editor, I hopped in a car with our fragility of life and at the ' N , V I H M t V • P field. Journalists have to convey emotion, show the equipment in tow, ready for the grief, they understand offering fragility of life and at the same time encourage and m unknown and headed for Blacksburg, same time encourage and loss, and they try to words of encouragement. move others to action. I don't think any of that can Virginia. What I found stopped me in give people their priva­ They also offered spiritual be done without the price of feeling a bit of that pain my tracks, made me re-evaluate my move others to action. cy. At the same time, support in prayer. they are there to com­ yourself. role as a journalist, made me ques­ See OUTREACH, page A7 tion my abilities and ultimately left municate that pain to Somewhere during the day I stopped writing and me with better perspective. the rest of the world, to give others a way of under just listened. Really listened to the words of comfort being exchanged, the wailing and the silence. I I had never seen media coverage like this before, standing. It hadn't occurred to me until then that I TRBC holds service arrived ready to cover the big story but I left drained and I admit it was exciting. was now part of a collective of people who are some­ times liked but often hated. I didn't enjoy that look and without proper words to explain what I had Converging on the Virginia Tech campus, profes­ seen. I also left with people's faces in my mind, their sional journalists from all over the world were of disdain, but I understood. I don't blame people for their perception of the looks of worry and disbelief. A professor shaking her combing the campus for people to speak to. Satellite head in utter shock as she watched students sign a trucks with their massive dishes on top, almost as media. Many members of the media, and I include myself in this group, can be harsh and imposing. memorial. A student proud in orange and maroon high as the vehicle itself, were parked neatly beside drawing a cross on a memorial board. A student each other. This was the big time, I was watching the Journalism students watch the pros leave their emotions at the door and keep their composure, and hauling laundry to the curb, ready to leave the home pros hard at work. It was a feeding frenzy of sound that became a nightmare. bites, descriptions of tears and despondent eyes. we try to emulate that. I think somewhere along the Looking at the events of Tuesday, I am incredibly Lynchburg residents gath­ Some journalists were quickly scribbling on note­ way, instead of checking in our emotions and pick­ proud to be a journalist. I have seen the hardship in ered Thursday night to books, talking on cell phones and tapping on ing them up at the end of the day, some of us start to Blacksburg and I have returned a better person with celebrate the lives of those Blackberrys. leave them there permanently. I learned on Tuesday a better perception. I found myself crying Tuesday lost on Monday. The broadcasters were directing their camera­ that leaving your emotions at the door all the time is night as I sat in my apartment. I was tired, messy men, telling them where to find the best shots. a heavy price for any journalist. Sometimes, bring­ and all of my sadness came rushing to me all in one See MEMORIAL, page A7 Those from major networks had several people car­ ing your emotions in with you is better. It keeps you minute. I would never have words sufficient enough rying their equipment, ducklings with boom mics. human. to take away any of the pain that people felt that day. The first task was to make our way inside the colise­ At 8:30 p.m. outside Burress Hall, I spoke to a R U okay? Pis call Rather, it is the people at Virginia Tech who have um for the memorial service, where the governor woman and her daughter. Hearing their words, 1 given me something. I have learned from them the As Monday's and president were speaking. Unfortunately, it was wanted to cry myself. I felt the tears coming. I saw need to feel, the need to stop leaving my emotions at events unfold­ packed, and Secret Service agents, with serious fright, worry and tiredness in their eyes. I saw the the door all the time. I also learned that being objec­ ed, many used black suits and equally serious facial expressions, crumpled and reused tissues in their hands, the wet tive does not mean you stop caring about people and the Internet to would not let us in. We ended up sitting in the foot­ spots on their sleeves where tissues stopped being the world. If anything, being a journalist means you get in touch ball stadium where thousands of people had gath­ useful. As 1 thanked them for their words, I looked must care more about the world. I feel that 1 am now with family ered after the coliseum had filledt o capacity. out at the sea of maroon and orange, and in that finally ready to be the journalist I have always want­ and friends, After the convocation, we began to wander moment, the culmination of all the rollercoaster emotions of the day hit me like a ton of bricks. I had ed to be and to accept my role in the world without and voice their thoughts and around campus, getting photos of West Ambler reservations. opinions. Johnston and Norris. Outside Patton Hall, an engi­ not been there on Monday, 1 didn't know anyone neering building, a young man wearing a crisp white who was hurt or killed, but 1 felt a small fraction of shirt and glasses stood with two adults. They talked their helplessness, and it was the worst feeling I Contact Joanne Tuny [email protected]. See INTERNET, page A7 i 1 Page A2.THF, LIBERTY CHAMPION APRIL 24,2007

2 5x -4i^ ASKEW By: Will Mayer

There was a terrible tragedy last week. It's person's hatred, covetousness, sadness, or been all over the news. After something like whatever feeling drove Cho Seung-hui over that happens, it's hard to know when it's polit­ the edge, could precipitate so much pain, sor­ ically correct to laugh again. We saw it after row, and death to a college community is September n when Letterman had a series of beyond disturbing and unfathomable. serious broadcasts. It left me wondering, par­ ticularly because I'm writing this column the But past the chaos, as the perpetrator of the day following the tragedy, if it would be all malicious acts is gone from the world, there right to laugh again. But, let's face it — I'm no lay a divergence amidst the path of recovery David Letterman, and I certainly don't think into normality. One path moves through I'd have anything quite so poignant to say anger, another through grief. Both paths are about the Monday that „^__^^_^^_ ___--^__ long and neither path is com­ Will be remembered for pletely separate from the many, many Mondays J could not bring other. But on those long, dark .to come as Letterman avenues there is no reason one had to say in his.broad- myself to find the uni­ cannot meet with hope along cast following the 9/11 the road, joy in the remember­ attacks — versal, or at least uni­ ing of paths past, indeed even in fellowship and laughter "We've lost five thou­ versity-wide, topic to between those journeying sand fellow New along the roads together.

Yorkers, and you can bring humor into your JESSICA WEBF.R feel it. You can feel it. In this edition of A Tad 'A GREAT AMERICAN' — FOX News pundit Sean Hannity encouraged audience members to stand up for their values. You can see it. It's terri­ hands as you browsed Askew, I could not bring bly sad. Terribly, terri­ myself to find the universal, or bly sad. And watching through the paper. at least university-wide, topic all of this, I wasn't sure to bring humor into your Hannity speaks in convocation, that I should be doing a hands as you browsed through television show, because for 20 years we've the paper. But in daily life, a laugh may mean been in the city, making fun of everything, more than a candlelight vigil at a certain time making fun of the city, making fun of my hair, to a certain person. Despite the failure of my takes questions from students making fun of Paul...." muse of humorous inspiration to impart me with the words to lighten the burden of the By Jared Pierce evil, which he noted people today refuse to I understand this situation is very different. somber mood, I hope to at least contribute to ASST. SPORTS EDITOR recognize. He also stated that "life is about Last week's tragedy - and I keep calling it a the collective urge to laugh again. This week, I vision" and that these were "transformative tragedy to refrain from the anger the more did not offer the ridiculouso r the sarcastic in With his wife Jill on hand, FOX News and consequential times" in modern day accurate word, atrocity, incites within me - black and white, but I'll make a deal with any­ commentator Sean Hannity returned to the America. was the result of one man. It wasn't a distant one reading — I'll laugh again, if you make campus of Liberty University to speak at During a story regarding an interview he ideological foe. It was a single man, one not so me. Wednesday's convocation service. His visit had conducted on his show, he mentioned different from you or from me. A college stu­ came only days after the tragic events at the name John Kerry, to which the Vines dent. That closeness of the eruption of rage is Contact Will Mayer at swmayer@liber- Virginia Tech. Prior to Hannity speaking, Center erupted in a chorus of boos. all the more unsettling. To think that a single ty.edu. Dr. Jerry Falwell offered his words of com­ Hannity joked, "See why I love Liberty?" fort and encouragement to the students. He spoke of his love and admiration for The proximity of Blacksburg brought President Ronald Reagan and espoused his more responsibility in Falwell's eyes. leadership during the pivotal times in the "(Virginia Tech) is only 100 miles away," early 1980s. he said. "They are our neighbors." "I admire him (Reagan) probably more Much criticism has been thrust on the than anybody," said Hannity. "I think he university's security, and Falwell openly literally showed us when there is no right wondered if Liberty could have performed or vision that there is no hope." any different. Hannity read one of Reagan's many let­ "Could we have done better? Who ters like a schoolboy reciting a knows?" asked Falwell. Shakespearean play, bold and impas­ "I know there are going to be a lot of sioned, as if the words could at any Monday morning quarterbacks, but the moment bring their author back to life. only person to blame is the deranged young As Hannity finished and stepped back to man who pulled the trigger." prepare for questions, Dr. Falwell stood Students throughout Vines Center could and whispered into Hannity's ear. Falwell be seen wearing Virginia Tech shirts and then turned to the crowd and announced hoodies. After his short oration, Falwell breaking news — that the Supreme Court introduced Hannity to a welcoming crowd. had upheld the decision to ban partial- As Hannity was introduced, students off birth abortions. The center- burst into to his left stood and proudly displayed applause as Hannity nodded his approval. signs saying, "You're a great American, Convocation ended with students asking Sean." Hannity questions about topics ranging Hannity, aware of the heavy thoughts on from the firing of radio host Don Imus to a students' minds, opened with a few jokes speech by Alan Greenspan. about his co-host Alan Colmes, which Throughout his entire address, Hannity quickly lightened the mood of the Vines exalted the virtues of Christian living and Center. He praised the man who had intro­ talked of his own spiritual life. Hannity and duced him, noting that "Dr. Falwell has Colmes can be seen every weeknight on been a mentor and counsel to me every step FOX News. of my life." He spoke to students about the need for Contact Jared Pierce at jpierce2@liber- LARGER THAN LIFE—This giant Chinese takeout box was a part of the Eighth Annual Student Art Show and strength in society and the prevalence of ty.edu. _-'->ias exhibited at the ILRC on the second floor of DeMoss Hall. The theme, "Larger Than Life," was also used in ; .sculptures of Legos, sushi, a flashlight and a camera. The art show In the ILRC fnduded graphic design and : - paintings. Another art attraction on campus was the Visual Communication Arts Faculty Art Show In the Classified ! Student Life and Academic Building (SLAB). Attended by more than ISO individuals, the show was a success. iff '"•'•' — : booking to build a career in Summer Jobs - Receive *.*•*» Biblical Counseling? Send contact information now your resume to: for summer employment at Royal Palm Ministries, Inc. US National Parks, "Western ;-: S 11 1 i E L 1 B r R T Y 1971 UNIVERSITY BLVD. ATTN: Dr. Marianne DeDeugd Dude Ranches and Theme :: 170S Colonial Blvd. D2 Parks. Fort Meyers, FL 339Q1 You must apply early. or Email us at: : CHAMPION ^ss^r* www.summerjobs- V•; > Faculty Adviser Deborah Huff Policies rpincounseling.org . "- rescarch.org f--; Ad Director Sue Matthews The Champion encourages communi­ ty members to submit letters to the edi­ '•• Editor in Chief Kari Mitchell tor on any subject. Letters should not %I. Managing Editor Matthew Hegarty EDUCATION, exceed 400 words and must be typed RESEARCH & :-.; SECTION EDITORS and signed. The deadline is 6 p.m. FOUNDATION, INC. Monday. Ixiellriue m clinical irialservice UltCC IV7.1 / . News Joanne Tang Letters and columns that appear are Do you have dandruff? '. '• Asst. News Amy Field the opinion of the author solely, not the ' (dry, itchy, or flaky scalp) ,\~. Opinion Hilary Dyer Champion editorial board or Liberty We are currently recruiting males with dandruff to participate -• y Life! Marcelo Quarantotto University. in a dandruff research study. {•' Sports Matthew Baer All material submitted becomes prop­ \: Asst. Sports lured Pierce erty of the Champion. The Champion reserves the right to accept, reject or edit • Appointments available between 8am and 6pm including lunch \ \ PHOTOGRAPHY & DESIGN hours •s any letter received — according to the Editor Alex Towers Champion stylebook, taste and the • Compensation for time & travel for qualified participants Asst. Photo Editor Jessica Weber Liberty University mission statement. completing the study v; Asst. Design Editor Caleb Atkins Send letters to: Liberty Champion, Liberty University, Box 2000, 5 j Distr. Manager Stephen Nelson Lynchburg, VA 24506 or drop off in For more information, please call Web Manager Joanne Tang DeMoss Hall 1035. The Champion is available online at: (434) 847-5695 Ad Manager Victoria Friedrich www.libeity.edu/chanipion. 2095 Lanyhome Road - Lower Level Lynchburg, VA 24501 www.educationandresearch.com APRIL 24,2007 THE LIBERTY CHAMPION, Page A3

"Compassion is sometimes the fatal capacity for feeling what it is like to live inside somebody else's skin. It is the knowledge that there can never really be any peace and joy for me until there is peace and joy finally for you too." OPINION — Frederick Buechner Getting the story a wv. Covering heartbreaking tragedy, but at what cost?

To those who lost some­ I didn't ask anyone any questions, I didn't want to. ' And standing on the Virginia Tech campus, I was. one at Virginia Tech, I The press pass around my neck did not validate any­ reminded of all that, and I wondered how in the world would like to express my thing. I had no right to ask anything of these people. I ever became a part of this. sincerest sympathy. Know !•• • that you have been in my I'd been praying that all the pain from several years But more than anything, my heart started to break for prayers. As a writer, I ago would not flood back in these moments, but how the people around me. Tears flooded my eyes as I believe in the power of could it not? Suddenly I was 16 again, holding my two- remembered the pain and how abrasive it is to the soul. words, but as a person I year-old cousin on my lap, waiting with her in hope that The burden for the friends and family and victims of understand that in these someone was going to find her dad soon. My uncle, just Virginia Tech sat like a weight on my chest and every­ times, nothing anyone can 10 years older than myself, had been missing in the thing in me wanted to collapse to my knees on the side­ say will heal the pain. hilarydyer woods of Vermont for the past few days. Search and walk and cry out to God on behalf of them. I was wish-.. ! rescue groups, as well as all our friends and family had ing I had been there alone, not walking along with my I was hesitant to write this article for several reasons. been out looking for him. The media had been hanging peers. First because I was so frustrated with the media cover­ around in our driveway, waiting for a story. age of the tragedy that occurred on April 16. Secondly When we entered the War Memorial Chapel, I felt ; because it then became popular for every journalist to I had been trying to keep my little cousin out of the relieved. A few people were in there, sitting and crying get up on their soapbox and cry out that the media was way, and was playing with her in the grass when I heard by themselves. I stood in the back and prayed for a "id being insensitive, all the while continuing to still chase some commotion in the front of the house and walked while and was about to go sit with a girl when we were ! down weeping parents asking for an interview. around to see what was going on. A journalist walked asked to leave because a member of my group had start­ up to me. "They just found the body. Who are you? Do ed taking photos inside the chapel. And then also, I felt uncomfortable with the thought you have a comment?" she asked. of baring my soul to the entire campus. It was difficult to contain my anger. I felt righteously indignant. I wanted to take these photographers and

Last Tuesday I drove to Virginia Tech along with a journalists by the shoulders and tell them that they • :•. few other members of the Champion staff. I was unsure "The press pass around my neck understood nothing unless they personally had experi­ as to why I was going. I absolutely dreaded the idea of enced this kind of mourning. I wanted to step in front having to interview anyone. The only reason I could did not validate anything. of the camera to somehow act as a protective barrier to come up with is that I wanted to be there among that the grief-stricken students around me. community. I wanted to stand by their side. I wanted to I had no right to ask anything show support and love somehow. of these people." I spent the rest of the day standing back from the m crowds. I watched as members of the Virginia Tech As we arrived I saw journalists from all over the world community walked past me with heartache written ... traipsing around campus, some with their narrow across their faces, and it evoked that same sorrow in reporter's notebooks and voice recorders, others with a I don't think I said anything to her. All that registered me. microphone and a video camera. They were all looking in my head was "body" and knowing what that meant. for a victim. Someone who was hurting, someone whose That it wasn't just a body they found. It was my uncle, I recalled all of the devil's attacks of doubt and anger life had been shattered in the past few days. Someone who was more like my older brother, who had taught that came against myfamily when we lost my uncle. It who had a dramatic story to tell, whose tearful face me so much about living like Christ, and he was Rone. was through those recollections tl\at 1 realized wYiat 1 was there lor that Clay. 1 was there to Yiaxen vo the SpirVx. could be run across the front page. and to pray for those around me. I hope that's how I I just started sobbing and was holding my little •i I looked at the faces of the Virginia Tech students and cousin as close to me as I could, trying to keep both our will always function as a journalist. To be one of the my heart ached for them. I understood how they felt. I heads down and away from the camera that followed us first to put the notebook down and lift my heart in looked at the journalists and felt complete disdain. around as I looked for her mother. I didn't watch any prayer. news or pick up a newspaper for a long time after that. I wished I had chosen another profession. Members of the media se6med coldhearted and cruel. Contact Hilary Dyer at [email protected].

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Au;x TOWERS GATHERING IN REMEMBRANCE - Members of the Virginia Tech community conducted a candlelight vigil last Tuesday evening in memory of the victims from the April 16 shooting

...... APRIL 24,2007 fege A4,THE LIBERTY CHAMPION COMMENTARY Journalism: getting the story while maintaining ethics

I sat in my office Monday morning listening to the news about a shooting that had occurred at Virginia Tech. I was too busy writing a College for a Weekend arti­ cle to pull up IPTV on my own computer, so I just lis­ tened to it in the background on another Champion staff karimitchell member's computer.

There was talk in the office about rearranging the front page of the Champion to include the piece of breaking news. What started out as small blurb turned into our headline story as the death total jumped from two to 20, then 22, then 32 and finally, 33- ALKX TOWERS . I felt like I was watching the event unfold as two different THE EVER-PRESENT MEDIA - Numerous media organizations were on the Virginia Tech campus for the convocation service last Tuesday. Photographers : people. apped photos of President George W. Bush (left) and Gov. Tim Kaine as the two men talked. Bush and Kaine both spoke at the ceremony. sn As a journalist, I wanted to know every detail of what was going on. The Champion staff in the office was glued to WSLS, while occasionally checking news Web sites for • more confirmed information about what was happening on Exploitation of mourning a campus very close to ours. I felt like I should have been more upset about those who lost their lives and the trauma quite clear there had been a loss of that essential balance. that the others on campus were experiencing. I was too Like a dark and devastat­ Taking into consideration the many firsthand accounts busy worrying about how it would effect the production of ing nightmare, the mass- from fellow students who were on the scene that dreadful • the paper. I was stressed most of the evening. I didn't have murder occurred at Virginia day, it appears that much of Virginia Tech's student body relief until about 12:30 a.m. when the paper was finally sent Tech on April 16. Students to the printer. and families of Blacksburg and faculty were resentful towards what they considered residents, citizens of to be exploitation for high ratings and professional Why was I worrying about that? People lost their lives on America and the global com­ advancement. Monday. That realization did not hit me until I saw the pic­ munity watched in horror as tures of the students Tuesday morning. These were people the number of verified fatal­ Now is a time to reflect upon and honor those who - brothers, sisters, sons, daughters and friends. If I went to ities steadily swelled passed away in this horrendous act, not one to take •Tech, it could have been me, or someone I knew. The clairemelsi throughout the day. People advantage of those so overwhelmed with grief that they thought gave me chills. were overcome by the tear- are nearly incapable of giving a comprehensible response jerking photographs of policeman crouched behind trees, to questions about what has occurred. Tuesday night during prayer groups, an interesting topic shots being fired from an upper level window and the came up - the media coverage of the shooting rampage. beautiful faces of those who lost their lives on that fateful The last thing that these emotionally devastated fami­ ^Members of my group claimed that the media were too day. lies need is media crews hounding them for exclusive intrusive. As a journalist, 1 defended the press. One girl interviews and phone conferences about the "security Svved VJ&CV; v\\i\V vWvs s\\o\i\u a Vime oi mouramg and sov- An inici national community was formed as people breach." row and some of these issues, such as security and gun con­ ' everywhere sat glued to their televisions sets as the death trol, should not be dealt with right now. Though I feared count was raised through out the day, hoping and praying Over time, people will speak out and safety issues will sounding insensitive, I continued to argue. that the number would somehow magically decrease, that need to be addressed, but within such a short time period someone, somewhere along the line, must have gotten the prying into the desperate emotions of people personally The media are asking legitimate questions that people numbers wrong. Shock struck everywhere as onlookers affected by the tragedy is not only disrespectful to them, want answers to. Journalism is a profession and it's the job struggled to wrap their minds around the significance of but to those for whom they mourn. of a journalist to get the story. They do not mean intention­ what was occurring. al harm. A journalist's main goal is to tell a story accurate­ Although right now it is the responsibility of the media ly and objectively. There are good journalists and there are Access to the goings-on at the university was available to give an accurate and honest account of what has hap­ bad journalists. to anyone in reach of a television, radio, newspaper, tele­ pened, a balance must be drawn. Making an emotional phone or computer with Internet access. Personal images connection with one's audience is about more than shov­ While the questions being asked were valid, it seemed of students crying, praying, and embracing were visible to ing a microphone in the middle of a huddle to capture the that members of the media had already formed an opinion those outside of the tight-knit university family. Emotion sniffles and tears of a group of praying students. It's about and were pointing fingers and laying blame rather than oozed from the pores of the television screen and into the more than approaching a sobbing girl with her head in her searching for truth. This is irresponsible journalism, and atmosphere of family rooms everywhere. hands, raw with feelings, for an on the spot-interview. the individual journalist should be criticized, not the media ;as a whole. Such private, heartfelt moments on such public display The emotional connection is established through struck an emotional chord but also created a sense of sym­ respectful and dignified coverage of the current event and Ultimately, to be a good journalist, judgment must be pathy for the mourners who had no other option. reaction. After more than one or two polite attempts at used. A journalist must get the story while being fully aware prompting an interview, the nonstop hounding of the of the source's privacy and feelings. As I type that sentence, As a journalism student, I have been taught for three media has becomes inappropriate in situations as such. I question my use of the term "source," and debate whether years now how important it is to be the eyes and ears of I should use a simpler term, such as "person." However, as viewers. Along with instruction as to how to capture the The constant media attention only prolongs the horrific a journalist, I will leave it as source to partly show the essence of the story and how to show rather than tell, the nightmare that has become a reality for the family and struggle that we face while covering such events. discussion of ethical and compassionate journalism has friends of the victims. come up more than once. The public wants answers. It's my responsibility, my job, Journalists and photographers who act with such little to get them. However, as a Christian using my gift to bring Conversation about the kind of moral reporting which couth are a disgrace to the profession of journalism. No God glory, I am held to a higher standard in how I go about portrays events without overstepping boundaries of job title warrants the right to exploit such conditions. getting those answers. A successful journalist finds a way, respect and dignity is far from uncommon. Noble journalism works towards the betterment of socie­ without dehumanizing the source or the situation. ty, not the decline of morality and journalistic integrity. When it came to the coverage of the Virginia Tech Contact Kari Mitchell at [email protected]. shootings, the overwhelming media intrusion made it Contact Claire Melsi at [email protected].

Continue to pray for the families of the victims at Virginia Tech - lA/e< /sgfriemwr... Ross Abdulluh Akime«ldine (i.V. Utganuthun Christopher Junius liishop I'urtahi Mumoru Hulonioun Lumbuntoruan Brian Roy Uluhm Lauren Ashley McCain Ryun Christopher ('lurk Duniel Patrick O'Neil Austin Michelle Cloyd Juun Ruinon Ortiz-Ortiz Jocelyne Coulure-Nowuk Minul liirulul I'unclial Kevin V. (irunula Duniel Alejandro l'erez Matthew Gregory UwuJlney lirin Nicole Peterson Caillin Millar llummurcn Miehuel Steven Pohle, Jr. Jeremy Michael HcrbslriU Julia Kathleen I'ryde Ruchucl Elizabeth Hill Mary Karen Read Kmily Jane llilscher Kivm.i Joseph Saiuuhu Jurrctl l,ee l^ine Wuleed Mohumcd Shuulan Mallhcw Joseph l.a I'ortc Uslie (ieraldine Sherman Henry J. LjM) Muxine Shelly Turner l.iviuJ.ibrescu Nicole White AI.KX ToWKKS An x'l'owi KS HOPE, FROM ONE WHO KNOWS — Misty Bernall, the mother of slain LIT TO REMEMBER — TRBC hosted a service in memory of the victims. Columbine student Cassie Bernall, spoke at the memorial service. APRIL 24, 2007 THE LIBERTY CHAMPION, Page A5 COMMENTARY A Christian response to evil

It's the question that's influential leaders of the early Church? A man who could Jeremiah took comfort in knowing that God would remain been asked by mankind honestly lay claim to every title of prominence in his day who true to His character. throughout the ages, regard­ instead chose to suffer imprisonment, beating, disease, ston­ less of age, ethnicity and ing and ridicule for the sake of sharing the Gospel with the And what about Paul? The man who experienced so much religious belief, because it world. hardship that he "[bore] on his body the marks of Jesus" strikes at the very core of (Galatians 6:17) had this to say of his trials: "What is more, what it means to be human. How is it that men so devoted to right could be allowed to I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing It's a conundrum, an suffer such tremendous tragedy? Doesn't it seem wrong that greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I implausibility that people good people hurt and ache and experience loss while evil tri­ have lost all things," (Philippians 3:8). have yet to fully be able to umphs and prevails? Where is the goodness of God in all of reconcile in their minds. It's this, we ask? So I suppose the real question then, at least for the the question we ask in the Christian, isn't so much "Why do bad things happen to good wake of horrific tragedies All three of those men were faced with questions like these people?" as much as it is "How will I respond when bad like Columbine and matthewberman as tragedy surrounded them. But notice their responses. things occur?" September 11. In the midst of such great loss, Job's first reaction was To have the right perspective in the face of tragedy—the And, as of Monday morning, Virginia Tech. worship. Job 1:20-21 says that "Job got up and tore his robe kind of perspective Job, Jeremiah and Paul exhibited—we and shaved his head. Then he fell to the ground in worship must first have a proper understanding of two key concepts: It's a fair and honest question to ask—and an even tougher and said: 'Naked I came from my mother's womb, and the character of God and the fact that evil exists in the world one to answer. as a result of man's ability to make choices. No, that doesn't make a tragedy any less difficult to endure. But it helps us Why do bad things happen to good people? "In the midst of our mourning look beyond our grief to remind us that we trust a God who we must remember that those is in control and has a purpose for good despite the evil The church is no stranger to this question either. Even intentions of wicked men. men and women qf God have had to ask this question and tragedies aren't a surprise to evaluate its implications on their lives and beliefs. God. In spite of man's capacity But notice that tragedy never ends in tears. Instead it Throughout the Bible, those who claim to believe in God— for evil, God is still sovereign." bears a much greater victory than we could have ever at first the One who, by definition, is the essence of goodness—are perceived. Job was blessed two-fold his original prosperity often found in the midst of tragedy. and clung to the promise that he would one day see his chil­ naked I will depart. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken dren again in Heaven. The temple at Jerusalem and the city Perhaps the most well-known example is that of Job, a away; may the name of the Lord be praised.'" Worship pre­ wall was eventually rebuilt, and the people of God were "blameless and upright [man] who fear[ed] God and pared Job's heart for the lesson God wanted to demonstrate allowed to return home from captivity. Paul led countless shun[ed] evil" (Job 1:8). A man who, by God's allowance, in his life. men and women to salvation in Jesus Christ, and when he was made destitute when, in a matter of moments, every­ finally went home to stand before his King, he received the thing dear to him in this life—save his wife—was stripped In Lamentations 3:21-23, we stand beside Jeremiah as he crown of life for which he had faithfully served the Lord dur­ from him. watches the ash smoldering in the distance—all that remains ing his earthly ministry. of his once beautiful city: "Yet this I call to mind and there­ Consider Jeremiah, God's faithful prophet to the people of fore I have hope: Because of the Lord's great love we are not It is all right to mourn, and we as people have a need to do Judah. Despite warning of God's coming judgment and urg­ consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new so. But in the midst of our mourning, we must remember ing the people to repent, he could only weep as he watched every morning; great is Your faithfulness." that those tragedies aren't a surprise to God. In spite of the nation reject his message and as he witnessed man's capacity for evil, God is still sovereign. He is still on Jerusalem, his beloved city, being burned to the ground. Even at one of the lowest points in Judah's history, the throne of Heaven. And He hurts with us. Jeremiah could boldly say this because he had already seen Or how about the apostle Paul, arguably one of the most God's goodness and compassion extended to His people, and Contact Matthew Berman at [email protected]. YOUR PIZZA PARTY HEADQUARTERS New For 2007! Student Value Menu

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» APRIL 24,2007 Page A6.THE LIBERTY CHAMPION COMMENTARY Journalists need to embrace civility Click. A woman crying. Snap- hour gap? Why did the email come so late? Why was there an e- Now, don't get me wrong - when investigating a financial pop-click. Somber men gathered mail at all, and not some kind of alarm system? What should scandal or corruption in government, there are some very diffi­ around a flagpole. Snap. An have been done differently? The questions will come; they even cult questions that need to be asked, and depending on the situ­ observer wringing her hands. have to come. The questions aren't the problem. But the problem ation, "going for the throat" might be necessary. However, none Click. Three girls praying. Snap. is timing. And timing is an impossible taskmaster to the news of the victims of this tragedy committed a crime in being killed. Well-dressed executive types media. And none of their friends or relatives committed a crime by lov­ looking off into the distance. ing them. Snap. Click. Pop-snap. Here it is, simply. In the media, if you don't get the scoop as fast as the other guy, you're toast. That's that. But if you get too close Digging deep into their wounded souls is a job for friends or too soon, you've got wackos like me calling you insensitive and counselors, not bulldog journalists. Add in people noises. "Excuse .1 me, miss..." "Sir, can I get a daVldthompSOn bloodthirsty. statement..." "Pardon me, what Sure, by plunging a hand quickly into an open wound, you get exactly..." "I'm sorry to intrude but..." Microphones shoved in an the blood before it dries. You might get some dynamic quotes, elderly man's face. Video cameras zooming in on contorted "Digging deep into their wounded outrageous expressions of anger and pictures of bitter tears. faces. Boom mics hovering near the crying masses. souls is a job for friends But by extending a friendlyhand , offering a cool glass of water*, This scene has come to be alarmingly representative of any or counselors, not associating with the grieving and even offering personal comfort I national tragedy that fits or exceeds the proportions of Virginia bulldog journalists." before going for the scoop, you just might find souls willingly Tech's calamity on Monday. Journalists clamoring to get the spilled, profound commentary rather than off-hand anger and "inside scoop" and the best quotes. pictures of human dignity amidst crisis. And having done some­ thing really good for someone else is much more substantial than Editors screaming that their reporters are sunk if they don't get I appreciate the delicacy of the journalist's position -1 am one some angry black words on a gray page. We all know it, whether! quotes. Television staff hurriedly setting up near the most dis­ myself. And given the circumstances at Virginia Tech, I can tell we admit it or not. tressed areas to get good visuals. you honestly that I don't know what I would do. One thing, though, overrides concerns about promptness and deadlines, Journalists should be proud of their product, and appreciate And it doesn't stop there. The inevitable speculation about the and that is the virtue of civility. Even if it's purely for selfish rea­ the profound.impact of the word, written or spoken, but the soul breakdown in security. It happened with 9-11. It happened with sons, courtesy never hurt anyone. I don't ever believe it to be the shouldn't be sacrificed for it. Dignity shouldn't go in favor of it Columbine. case in journalism that, if people's privacy is respected, the fin­ And shame on those who sacrifice other peoples' dignity for it. RH ished product will be worse off than if the courtesy had not been And it's happening with Virginia Tech. Why was there a two- extended. Chances are, it will turn out better. Contact David Thompson at [email protected]. Virginia Tech asks media to leave them alone A young woman pushes tears But what the Hokies are not tolerating are the ignorant A Virginia Tech alumnus called "Jlowery" posted this mes­ from her eyes as she sits on the claims fromth e national media, salting fresh wounds with fur­ sage on the Daily Kos blog: "Leave us alone. Let us heal as a grass of Lane Stadium, watch­ ther accusations of impotency by the administration. community. Don't search for a person to blame. Don't try to ing the Virginia Tech convoca­ Thousands of students refuse to talk to the outsiders, feeling divide us. The students and extended Tech community will tion with her fellow Hokies. betrayed by the assault against President Charles Steger. Like come out on the other side of the tragedy, if you let us." When weeping finally over­ the weeping girl on the field, the students use their silence to comes her, she gives in, and her speak out against the invading presence and judgment of the Perhaps nothing sparked as much anger as the NBC friends comfort her with heart­ media. Network's choice to devote air time to the nefarious "multime­ felt embraces and consoling dia manifesto" that arrived on the doorstep of Rockefeller Plaza touches. "Now is not a time to point fingers—that'sth e last thing we from the shooter. erinfitch need," said Defrdre Hunter, an engineering graduate student The scene catches the atten­ and member of the New Life Christian Fellowship ministry at Not only has the broadcasting of such repugnant propagan­ tion of a cameraman fromth e sidelines and he slithers towards Virginia Tech. da from a mentally ill reprobate serve to further maim the the group of friends, adjusting his lens ready to aim at the already-injured community, but it also is a dangerous gateway photo-op. Meanwhile, the intrusiveness of the media is a hot topic Cir­ for copy-cat behavior to harm others. culating, among tVve btogospnere and Internet social groups. She sees him coming, and turns her tearful face away, keep­ Journalist and blogger Adam Tinworth from Livejournal.com The decision to air the video brought heated critcism. ing it hidden from the intrusion. He finallygives , up and leaves, condemned the media's tireless online solicitation of the Hokie Parents of victims refused to appear the next morning qn and she turns face forward again. family for quotes and comments, calling it "digital door-stop­ NBC's "The Today Show" after seeing the images broadcasted.

ping," according to the UK's Online Press Gazette. i.l. Moments like these remind me how the media can unapolo- As criminal profiler and author of "Facing Down Evil," Clint getically exploit the sufferings of victims in tragedies, and like "Barging into that community and asking for comment feels Van Zandt told MSNBC's Tucker Carlson, "He wants to be able vultures, swarm over a dying corpse in some desperate pan­ not unlike barging into a pub and asking somebody for com­ to reach his hand out of the grave and grab us by the throat and handling for ratings and reward. ments," wrote Tinworth. make us listen to him one more time." -1

Students at Virginia Tech have shown immense courage and The Virginia Tech community has asked the media to leave Thanks to the insatiable, sensationalist media, that's exactly admirable strength during these difficult days in the aftermath the campus and city of Blacksburg alone and allow time for the what he got. of Cho Seung-Hui's inexplicable massacre. They maintain sup­ students and faculty to recuperate and heal from the tragic port for their beloved President, faculty and administration. events of this week. Contact Erin Fitch at [email protected]. Something you want to say? BROWNSTONE ^^PKOPERTIESINC: Send your letters to the editor... We Proudly Offer. Liberty Champion Liberty University • Single Family Homes [email protected] DeMoss 1035 • Townhomes/Apartments Box 2000 • Short Tenn Rentals • Optional Washer/ Dryer Lynchburg, VA 24506 • Call for current Specials

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85-1021658 Craves Mill Roa5d i n fb®t>rownstonepropentejcotri TWO TAN-TASTIC (£1(9 LOCATIONS^ Saturday IN LYNCHBURG! ^6eSetECT^N^EStc04o(f 43.4.B7.2880 April 28 401« Wards Ri Lynchburg, VA, 24502 5 ml Many more choices from (a) 4 p.m. ^hacc) "Where the sun always shines!" IIHIlltl.lll DeMoss Courtyard/ Schilling Parking Lot $5 OFF ANY PACKAGE HIKER'S OUTPOST On VIP Packages C»Ot»»« QEAR Enjoy rides, live music, i ! Valid on I st Month Only 101-A NORTHWYND CIRCLE > LYNCHBURG, VA • 434-239-5576 food and a grill off! *Must Present this Coupon* AT CITY PLACE IN WYNDHURST • SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR DIRECTIONS (This coupon is nut valid with any other offer) APRIL 24, 2007 THB LIBERTY CHAMPION, Page A7 MEMORIAL: Hokie alumni OUTREACH: Liberty students remember their own find impact at Virginia Tech By Amy Field spoke, along with (Virginia Tech) university By Matthew Hegarty "Weeping may endure for a night, but joy ASST. NKWS KDITOR officials," Olson said. His tribute to Virginia MANACiINC, Killl()l( comes in the morning." Tech can be found at http://www.you- "Joy must overcome sorrow, and empti­ Liberty's responses to the tragedy at tube.com/watch?v=GckznXjb_-s. He set the 'In remembrance of the Virginia Tech vic­ ness must once again become fullness," Virginia Tech have taken many different video to play along to Third Day's song "Cry tims, the Central Virginia Chapter of the Dodson said. forms. At least two student-led vigils were Out To Jesus." Virginia Tech Alumni Association conduct­ Falwell made various biblical references, held at the Spirit Rock in addition to the "The song seemed to match the tragedy in ed a memorial service on Thursday, April quoting Romans 8:28 and mentioning memorial service for Virginia Tech that was every way possible," Olson said. "The lyrics icj. Several hundred people attended the Christ's suffering on the cross. In his clos­ hosted by Thomas Road Baptist Church on are really telling people what they need to service, which was held in conjunction with ing prayer, he asked that God, in His min­ Thursday. hear - that there's an infinite God who hears Thomas Road Baptist Church. istry to the members of the Virginia Tech However, a number of Liberty students left us when we need Him most." Burnt orange and Chicago maroon, the community, would "not only bring them the comfort of Lynchburg and made the 91- Hannah Ellenburg, a sophomore from school colors of Virginia Tech, were visible through this day and tomorrow, but all the mile drive to a hurting Blacksburg to show South Carolina, also decided to go with a everywhere, as was the school's familiar tomorrows ahead." their support for the community. Students group of students to Virginia Tech. They left logo. Both appeared on items ranging from The last major speaker was Misty Bernall, loaded up cars with friends and took "road for Blacksburg on Friday afternoon and purses and ribbons to T-shirts, track jackets the mother of slain Columbine High School trips," going with the intention of not just spent about five hours on the campus. and football jerseys. Even the TRBC sanctu­ student Cassie Bernall. Gunman Eric Harris being there to see the aftermath of the "I went because I knew that there was ary walls echoed the VT coloration scheme. killed Cassie Bernall on April 20, 1999 at tragedy but to minister to the hurting stu­ nothing I could do for the people of Virginia As attendees began to file into the sanctu­ Columbine, which is located near Littleton, dents there. Tech except pray," said Ellenburg. When she ary, others stopped to talk in small groups Colo. Freshman Devin Olson went with two of and her friends reached Blacksburg, they briefly or to reflect before entering. Tom The Columbine massacre, in which Harris his friends and visited Virginia Tech the day prayed together before going to the memori­ Webb, a Lynchburg City School Board and accomplice Dylan Klebold killed 12 stu­ after the shootings to offer help and support als that were set up for the victims and those member, was one such person. dents and a teacher before taking their own to those who needed it. who mourned them. -Webb, a 1964 graduate of Virginia Tech, lives, is the third-deadliest campus shoot­ "I get the sense that a lot of people are still "(We) prayed for our hearts to be filled said that he was attending a national school ing in U.S. history. wondering how to respond to a tragedy like with compassion and spiritual understand­ board conference in San Francisco when he As Bernall got up to speak, the audience this," Olson said. "And of course everyone, ing," she said. first heard the news about his alma mater. rose as one to give her a standing ovation. should offer up their prayers, but they have Arriving at the memorials, they found a He was in a hotel elevator at the time and Bernall began her address in a voice that no idea ... what kind of an impact they can heartbreaking sight of individuals remem­ was wearing a VT T-shirt when a man was fraught with emotion. have, just going down there and wrapping bering those who died. "As I watched them standing next to him asked if he had heard "I hope that tonight, I am able to give you their arms around everyone who needs it and cry, hug each other and go from one memo­ about the shootings. Webb replied that he hope," she said. asking, 'Can I pray with you?'" While there, rial tent to another, all I could think about had not. Bernall, who also spoke at convocation on he and his friends met families and friends of was how they were like 'sheep without a That soon changed. "Literally the whole Friday, April 20 as part of remembering the victims, who were there to remember their shepherd,'" Ellenburg said. week, I pretty much watched TV," he said. eight-year anniversary of the attack at loved ones. Walking down to look at the memorials, "Webb has had two children, as well as two Columbine, briefly took the crowd back to "One of the most amazing experiences for Ellenburg found walls set up that individuals nephews and a niece, attend the school. that fateful day. us (was) when we decided to go over to the could write personal messages to the ones gle said that he believed his attendance at "Eight years is a long road," she said. "I temporary grief counseling center Tech set they lost. ^ tfte service was necessary. don't know what we would have done with­ up," Olson said. "One read, 'Ryan, thanks for protecting my ""'I'm feeling like everyone else here out our faith in the Lord." "People kept telling us, 'Thank you so son,'" Ellenburg said. tonight.... You have to do it," he said. "God turns our tragedy into triumph," she much for coming down here.'" "It isn't every day that one of the most hor­ The service began with TRBC vocalist said. Olson, a journalism major, filmed parts of rific crimes in history happens a few miles Charles Billingsley, who gave a stirring per­ As part of the evening's final events, his trip. When he returned to Liberty, he down the road from you," Olson said. formance of "Great Is Thy Faithfulness." Liberty student Benjamin Litter walked on edited the footage and uploaded the video to "I really think it's our duty as Christians, The first speaker to address the audience stage dressed in traditional Scottish garb, YouTube. and it should be natural (for) us to want to was Duke Grant (VT Class of 2006), the playing the bagpipes. At the same time, "Most of it was filmed during the convoca­ help out in whatever way we can." vice president of the Central Virginia men and women seated on stage began to tion the university held at 2:15 on Tuesday, Chapter. He challenged the audience to let light 32 candles, a.figure that represents the where President Bush and Governor Kaine Contact Amy Field at [email protected]. the evening make them "better parents and total number of people killed at Virginia better people." Tech minus the shooter, Cho Seung-Hui. "This tragedy has affected us all in a very The lights dimmed and the names and personal way - a way that we will not soon faces of the 32 slain individuals passed forget," he said. across the screens as the haunting strains of ^After a performance by Liberty musical "Amazing Grace" filledth e sanctuary. When gtoup Sounds of Liberty, three local minis­ the last notes of the bagpipe faded, Billings­ ters came to offer words of hope - Dr. Tim ley returned to the podium and sang an a Gerde of Peakland United Methodist cappella rendition of the "Our Father." Church, Pastor Mike Dodson of Tree of Life The final speaker, Larry Grant, was a past Ministries and Dr. Jerry Falwell. president of the Central Virginia Chapter. Gerde, who traveled to Blacksburg the Grant, who is the father of current Chapter day after the massacre, told the audience vice president Duke Grant, hoped that the that he was "inspired by (the) spirit, hon­ audience would avoid pointing "accusatory esty and courage" of Virginia Tech students. fingers" but would rather provide "hope In his remarks, he recited "Holy Sonnet X" and healing" to the community of by John Donne, a work that is better known Blacksburg. as "Death Be Not Proud." As people filed out to return to their "."Death and despair will have no domin­ homes, some eyes were wet with tears - ion here tonight," he said, alluding to the signs of empathizing with a university com­ poem. munity that would be forever changed. "With faith and hope, the worst is never the end." Contact Matthew Hegarty at mjhegar- ALEX TOWERS pDodson quoted Psalm 30:5b, which says, [email protected]. - Students have left various items at the Spirit Rock, including candles and Hokie-bird stuffed animals. INTERNET: Reactions from around the world

By Jared Pierce and Joanne Tang messenger, she received notice about from www.virginiatechtribute.org, which was set discussed gun control and security, others mutual friends. Throughout the day, Chin up as a way to pay respects to those lost. offered words of sympathy and condolence. 2We live in a small world that gets smaller used IM to receive updates from her friends The West Virginia Blogger has a list of the There was not only a response to the tragedy, each day. We also live in a world wrought on campus. victims and links to their MySpace pages. there was a sense of community as people with evil. We live in a world in which events The networking site Facebook has been a LiveJournal, a popular blog hosting site, has from all walks of life banded together on the' Ljke April i6th's tragedy at Virginia Tech virtual meeting ground for students looking been used by numerous students to tell their Internet to help each other heal. sjiock us, but are not unprecedented. The sad for friends, family or just trying to get their stories. Not just a tool, the Web has made it possi­ rjart is that though people hope it is the last story out. Once the media released the Virginia Tech graduate Wayne Chiang was ble for people to gain understanding, advo­ df its kind, but feel in their gut that it is not. killer's name, numerous Facebook groups hit with a slew of posts on his LiveJournal cate change and for some, show the love of ! The advancement of technology breeds a appeared. Some groups called for forgive­ blog after Geraldo Rivera of FoxNews Christ. pervasive blog and personal Web site culture ness while other groups attacked and cursed showed his photo online as an example of that gives anyone with a computer a voice, the gunman. According to Reuters, more why people would think he was the shooter. Contact Jared Pierce at jpierce2@liber- 'iftiey can express their feelings in pictures, than 236 groups have been started since The Facebook photo showed Chiang with ty.edu and Joanne Tang at jtang@lib- videos or words by typing out their inner­ April 16. part of his gun collection. Chiang used his erty.edu. most thoughts. These advancements allow Lena Huber, a junior at the University of blog to state his inno­ many people cheap and easy methods of Tennessee, said she found out about the cence. communicating across the vast world. It was shootings from her cousin. Huber knew sev­ Digg is a "user driven cjear during the days that followed the eral students at Virginia Tech. social content" Web site, In Memoriam: April 16, 2007 Virginia Tech tragedy that this culture of "Some of (my friends) updated their and allows users to post ojpen communication and readily available Facebooks, others called when they were links to articles for other Hokie Spirit Memorial Fund Web space both benefited and offended a finally able to," she said. users to add votes Apnl 16,2007, will be remembered as one of ttiu darkest wounded society. Looking at Facebook on Monday, walls - (diggs) to the ones they days In the history of the Virginia Tech community and the world beyond. i A search for "Virginia Tech Massacre" on message areas where users can post com­ like the most. On April ments - were littered with messages such as 16 an article posted to To remember and honor the victims of those tragic 'iechnorati, a site that tracks more than 70 events, the university has established the Hokie Splnt million blogs, yielded results ranging from "are you okay?" and "I hope you are safe." the Web site received Memorial Fund to aid in the healing process support for the victims and their families to Some who had already heard from their 6,9x7 diggs. Another The fund will be used to cover expenses Including but not gjin control rhetoric and even sites that pro- friends posted relieved messages such as article about Professor limited to: cjajm the victims deserved their fate. "I'm glad you're okay." Liviu Librescu, who held > Assistance to victims and their families J When news filtered in of shootings at Virginia Tech student Katie Olson created the door to his classroom > Grief counseling Virginia Tech, students at other universities the "I'm ok at VT" group, which had 3,553 shut while students > Memonals f{mnd a number of ways to locate friends and members at press time. Started originally as escaped through the > Communication expenses family at Virginia Tech. Many used instant a way for students to post that they are safe, window, generated > Comfort expenses r&essenger services such as AIM, Google talk the group is now used as a hub for updates 4,028 diggs. Funds in honor or memory of the victims and Yahoo Messenger. These instant mes­ on the injured students. For Internet users In addition to the Hokie Spirit Memonal Fund, you may sage services allowed users to get real-time MySpace, a site where users can create overseas not directly also contribute to the Hokie Spirit Scholarship Fund to support students unlversity-wlde. or to specific funds In the name of each of the victims These updates on the situation. their own Web page featuring a blog, music affected by the shoot­ funds will be set up as we receive approval to do so from the famines Get an up-to-date l|g| of I Rutgers University Senior Cristine Chin and pictures, has also been an outlet. One ings, the forums at Digg funds. fjmnd out about the Virginia Tech shootings site - The Virginia Tech Family - has been a and other online news In die wake of tins tragedy, we are confident that Hokie Spirit will only grow stronger and more ft;om a friend. From Sterling, Va., Chin knew forum for people to write their support for Web sites proved to be a resilient. We thank you fur your continued support. several people at Virginia Tech and started to the victims' families. useful method of com­ URAIMIU' UV VT IM them. Those she could not find on instant Tributes range from YouTube videos to munication. While many ON THE WEB — Support funds can be donated through a Web site on VT.edu. Page A8.THE LIBERTY CHAMPION APRIL 24, 2007 As a nation of Hokies heals...

ABOVE — President George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush visited one of the temporary memorials on the Drill Field, where they also signed the memorial. Bush wrote "God Bless" before signing his name.

LEFT — A group of students gathered to pray and sing "Amazing Grace" at the flagpole in front of Burress Hall. Flags all over the coun­ try were at half-mast in respect for the victims of the tragedy.

RIGHT — More than 10,000 individuals attended a candlelight vigil on the Drill Field on the night of April 17. The crowd included mem­ bers of the Corps of Cadets dressed in their traditional blue and white uniforms, families and other members of the Virginia Tech communi­ ty. Candles were passed out to attendees and were lit as evening came.

BELOW — After the convocation began at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Casseil Coliseum filled to capacity and many supporters filled surrounding areas such as Lane Stadium, where the service was being simulcast.

ALL PHOTOS BY ALEX TOWE3 In Honor of the Fallen

PAGE Bl APRIL 24, 2007

[email protected] The Liberty Champion (434)582-2124 Baseball routs Radford Sports world honors VT during three-game set By Jared Pierce Tech logo on their driver-side The sign will contain a ricane fans. As a further aid ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR windows for the next few black ribbon with the logos of effort, the Hurricanes pre­ By Mitchell Maldieff "I need to change speeds races. all other ACC schools sur­ sented Virginia Tech with a SPORTS REPORTER and use better location, and As Anaheim Angels pitcher Major League Soccer team rounding it. $10,000 check before Friday try not to get into patterns," Joe Saunders stood in front of Houston Dynamo will wear Penn State University hon­ evening's baseball game in Coaches preach that, to be said Umberger. thousands of waiting fans, he maroon jerseys instead of its ored the victims of Virginia Blacksburg. successful at baseball, their He was also disappointed calmly scratched the letters usual orange jerseys during Tech during its spring football Virginia Tech Head Foot­ players must have consis­ with how short his day was. "VT" on the back of the its April 29 game against the game. ball Coach Frank Beamer, tency, patience at the plate "Every time out, I plan on mound with his cleats. Chicago Fire. The uniforms Hundreds of students that who has been at the school and solid defense. The Flames going nine," he said. Saunders, who at the time will be auctioned off following attended the game sat in a since 1987 and is an alumnus, got all of that in the firsttw o Royer also expects better was the only Hokie in the the game, and $8 from every specific section and wore cancelled the team's spring games of a weekend series performances out of his major leagues, turned to face ticket sold will go to Virginia maroon and orange shirts to game that was to be played on against the Radford High­ pitcher. the plate with a heavy heart Tech's Hokie spell out Saturday. He believed it was landers. "He needs to throw his and a Hokie hat on his head. Spirit Mem­ "VT" in the too early for football. Liberty scored 29 runs and curveball better and get Saunders honored the Vir­ orial Fund. stands. Liberty University paid allowed only four in an ahead in the count," said ginia Tech students killed On the . The Penn tribute as well. During Satur­ impressive offensive display. Royer. during Monday's horrific PGA Tour, State band day's spring football game, Just a week ago, Head Coach The coach went on to say attack the best way he knew 32 golfers played the players wore maroon and Matt Royer was disgruntled that Umberger's curveball how — by playing through the wore Vir­ "Amazing black wristbands to honor the with his players. He said that was breaking as soon as it left pain. The rest of the sports ginia Tech Grace" as the victims. The Lady Flames they were not producing any his hand, which made it eas­ world followed suit. hats instead family of softball team painted the Vir­ "situational" hits. ier for a hitter to time. Aside When tragedy strikes, the of their shooting vic­ ginia Tech athletic logo on Those situational hits that from Umberger's perform­ sports world responds. usual spon­ tim Jeremy their faces and on the outfield were absent a week ago came ance, Royer had nothing but Whether it is a simple sored Titleist Herbstritt grass, and the baseball team in bunches on Friday and Sat­ good things to say about his moment of silence before a hats during watched in posted the same symbol on urday. players. game or a small symbol on the the Zurich the stands. the back of their helmets. After scoring six runs in "We put the ball in play back of a helmet, athletes and Open over Herbstritt The sports world should be the first three innings during with men on third," said coaches at all levels under­ the week­ grew up only proud of the way it handled Friday's game, Liberty sent 10 Royer. stand the importance of end. • minutes last Monday's events. The men to the plate in the fourth "We are hitting the ball the national tragedies and have After from the sta­ dignity, reverence and respect and stretched its lead over other way much better, and the ability to put them into pitching his dium. He shown for the victims has Radford to 12-1. we did not strike out." perspective. They know that a first career earned two been inspiring. Sophomore Errol Holl- Ten different players baseball or football game may no-hitter, degrees from The response should be all inger highlighted the fourth recorded hits in the game, be the only couple of hours Chicago Penn State the more important to us ; inning Liberty attack with a including three by senior during a long day that a bewil­ White Sox and was pur­ because we can get lost in the bases-clearing double to left Derek Bennion and two dered friend or family can pitcher Mark Buehrle wore a suing a master's degree at Vir­ world of sports, so sucked field. Although sophomore apiece from sophomore Ken­ smile. Virginia Tech hat during his ginia Tech at the time of his into division standings and pitcher Dustin Umberger neth Negron and junior P.K. More than a few times over post-game interview. NBA death. box scores that we forget the picked up his fourth win of Keller. the past week, sports teams and Major League Baseball Perhaps the most moving truly important events in our the year, he yielded 12 hits The result? A16-3 thrash­ and organizations have hon­ teams across the country held tribute came from the Univer­ lives. and three runs in just 5 1/3 ing of the Highlanders. ored and remembered the vic­ a moment of silence before sity of Miami, one of Virginia Last week's tribute teaches innings of work. Umberger There is always the chance tims of last Monday's tragedy. their games. Tech's fiercest rivals. us that sports can transcend was not happy with his perr of a letdown after a game like The Washington Nationals The Atlantic Coast Confer­ On Wednesday evening, language or race, but it is formance. Friday's, but on Saturday the took the field on Tuesday ence, which Virginia Tech Miami held a vigil for the vic­ never above real-life tragedy. He noted that he needed to Flames picked up right where evening, donning Virginia holds membership in, will tims, during which the chant change a number of things to they left off. Tech hats, and NASCAR driv­ have signs at all upcoming of "Let's go, Hokies!" broke Contact Jared Pierce at fix his game for the next out­ ers will race with the Virginia spring championships. out among the die-hard Hur­ [email protected]. ing. Please see FLAMES, page B2 Lady Flames creep ever closer to Flames offense shines in spring conference lead with 5-2 week game as team pays tribute to VT

By Eric Brown over," said Williams, whose homer was her By David Thompson see from the team in the ning to end," said Rocco, lik­ SPORTS REPORTER only hit of the contest. CONTRIBUTING REPORTER coming year. ing what he saw, though Lynchburg College responded with two However, the team has admitting that the format The Liberty women's softball team over­ runs of their own in the third to make it a 5-2 The Liberty Flames foot­ covered just about every was very relaxed compared came all odds this weekend by defeating Big ball game. ball team held its annual play in practice that the to inter-collegiate competi­ South Conference leader Radford not once, Two innings later, senior Jessica Moore spring football game on Sat­ Flames fans will see next tion. "It really wasn't a but twice. and freshmen Dana Wheeler came across urday to close out Head season. sloppy day." Before achieving the feat, the Lady the plate to push the Hornets' deficit back to Coach Danny Rocco's sec­ The game was played in Among the improvements Flames battled Lynchburg College and Uni­ five. ond spring at Liberty. quarters of 12 minutes this year is starting quarter­ versity of North Carolina-Greensboro in Each team scored a run in the sixth, mak­ Over 4,000 people apiece and points were back Brock Smith, who will non-conference action. ing the final score in game one 8-3 in favor watched the exhibition — an awarded for accomplish­ be a junior during the com­ On Tuesday, Liberty played at home of the home team. offense vs. defense match­ ments like sacks, first ing season. He was the against a feisty Division III team in the Hor­ In game two, Liberty received quality up intended to give the fans downs, defensive stops and recipient of Liberty's offert- nets of Lynchburg College. pitching from senior Terra Lowe. a taste of the possibilities fumbles. sive Samkon Gado Award The Lady Flames scored five runs off four The Hornets stung quickly in the first going into the fall season. The offense, as Rocco for showing the most hits in the second, including a two-run home inning as Elizabeth Perkins knocked a solo "Overall, we had a great admittedly expected, out­ improvement during the run from junior Ashley Williams. homer down the left field line. spring," said Rocco, though shone the defense, which spring. "I honestly didn't think it was going to go Undaunted, Lowe went on to pitch a com­ he noted that the spring was one of the best scoring Smith, who shared the plete game, striking out nine game did not encompass defenses nationally last year. quarterbacking duties with batters and allowing only everything that he expects to "It was well done, begin­ fellow junior Zach Terrell one more hit. last season, was named one "I can't believe I gave up a of three offensive captains, home run to them," said along with linemen Eddie Lowe. "I didn't want to let Pinigis and Steven Sene. that happen again." The Lady Flames batted in Please see FOOTBALL, page B4 five runs in two innings and four more in the fourth to win 9-1 by mercy rule in five innings. Sports The following day, the Lady Flames ventured to the At UNC-Greensboro to take on the Spartans. UNC-Greensboro gained Liberty the advantage early, scoring a run in the second. Baseball Sophomore Beth Bennett finally broke the ice for the vs. George Mason, Lady Flames in the fourth as she doubled to left center, Tue. 3 p.m. allowing Moore to advance home. In the sixth, Bennett Softball brought her teammate home JESSICA Wi in K again, this time on a sacrifice vs. Coastal Carolina, PLAYING IN MEMORY OF THE FALLEN — The members of the Lady Flames fly that gave Liberty a 2-X softball team cheer on their peers during the weekend's home games. lead. Fri. 2 p.m. (DH) lESSICA WKIIKK Liberty honored those who were slain at Virginia Tech by wearing VT face- HONORING THE HOKIES — Brock Smith and the rest of the Flames football team paint and painting the outfield grass with the Virginia Tech athletic pro­ Sat. 1 p.m. Please see SOFTBALL, page B2 wore maroon and black wristbands to honor the victims of Virginia Tech. gram's logo. i fra'gc 62, THE LIBERTY CHAMPION APRIL 24,2007 FLAMES: Lucky number 14 SOFTBALL: Lady Flames dominate the diamond, add two wins against Radford Continued from page B1 They tacked on one more run in the second inning on P.K. Keller's RBI single. Continued from page B1 the fifth, Moore and Williams leadoff home run to left field to Royer said that he was looking for "more of Radford countered in the top of the fourth, each hit solo homers to trim the make it a 3-1 ball game. the same" in game two, and that was exactly when right fielder Corey Greene sent a UNC-Greensboro answered deficit to two. In the bottom of the inning, what he got. Solbach delivery over the right field wall to in the bottom of the inning with The Highlanders countered Liberty responded with a two- The Flames were hotter than a $2 pistol on cut the lead to 4-2. With a runner on third a solo homer to center field, with a two-run blast in the sixth run homer fromWilliams . Two Saturday on their way to a 13-1 victory. and only one out, Solbach was able to retire which eventually extended the to regain a four run advantage. In innings later, Moore extended Junior starting pitcher David Stokes picked the final two batters and head back to the game to extra frames. the bottom half, Johnson hit her season-leading home run up his team-high seventh win of the season. dugout unscathed. In the extra inning, senior another solo home run to keep total to 16 with a solo shot to left Stokes went seven innings and allowed one The Flames scored four more runs in the Dawn Jeffs and Moore quickly Liberty in the contest. center. The Lady Flames tacked run on nine hits. For the second straight day, bottom of the fourth, highlighted by Keller's got on base for the Lady Flames. Jeffs quickly got on base in the on three more runs to earn a 9-1 the Liberty recorded 14 Williams then smacked a double seventh due to a fielding error, victory in "mercy rule" fashion hits. sending the seniors home. With which led to a two-run homer and took the series 2-1 against Negron opened up the Spartans' inability to answer from junior Shannon McKain. the toughest team in the confer­ the third inning with a in the bottom of the inning, Lib­ After managing to cut the lead to ence. triple and crossed the erty pulled out a 4-2 victory. one, the Lady Flames grounded "Everyone.. .came to hit," said plate after a Keller In game two, the Lady Flames out three straight times and lost Jeffs. "Our team just has a lot of groundout to open the attempted to prevent the Spar­ 7-6. confidence that we can hit any­ sporing. tans from seeking revenge by "They're good pitchers, but one that is throwing at us." . Radford tied the putting two runs on the board in we could have a done a lot better With postseason play game in the top of the the first inning. hitting," said McKain. "I think approaching, Liberty remains fourth for its only run After eight unanswered Spar­ their defense is what helped second in me Big South with a 7-2 of the game. tan runs, Liberty broke tiirough them out." record in conference play and a The Flames took in the fifth when freshman J'nae In game three on Saturday, 30-18 record overall. advantage of three Jefferson smashed a lead off Jeffs set the tone in the first "We're fired up," said Head wild-pitches by home run to left field. inning as she nailed a lead off Coach Paul Wetmore. "With the Radford in the sixth UNC-Greensboro picked up round-tripper to right-center. power we've got, we're going to arid tore the game two more runs in the bottom half Moore and Bennett scored later hang seven or eight runs on the wide-open, scoring to add to Liberty's dilemma. in the inning to put Liberty up board." four runs to take an 8- They tried to bounce back in the early, 3-0. The onslaught from Liberty travels to Farmville on llead. seventh, but the rally came too the Lady Flames forced Rad­ Tuesday, April 24 to take on Longwood in a double-header. . Little-used freshmen CALEB ATKINS late as the team fell, 10-7. ford's starting pitcher off the Cory Johnson took THROWING HEAT — Sophomore Dustin Umberger pitches during the Flames 16- On Friday, Liberty began a mound after just one inning of Game timei s set for 3 p.m. advantage of an oppor­ 3 victory over Radford. Umberger gave up 12 hits but only allowed three runs. three game series with the num­ action. tunity in the eighth to ber one team in the conference, In the top of the third, the Contact Eric Brown at pinch-hit and knocked home two runs on a sacrifice fly and center fielder Garrett the Radford Highlanders. Highlanders' Alex Roderick hit a [email protected]. single. Young's 32nd RBI of the year. In what turned into a grind-it- . Another run came in on the play after a Down 8-2 heading into the fifth inning, : outgame,theBigSouth'stoptwo throwing error by the right fielder. Again, 10 Radford was able to string together two more teams remained scoreless different players had hits for the Flames, led runs, cutting the Flames lead to 8-4. through four until sophomore by, junior Garret Young who went two for The Flames, though, answered with four Courtney Johnson knocked a three with two RBI's. more runs in the fifth and one more in the lead off homer to center field. Senior Tim Nanry and junior David seventh, for the 13-5 win. On the wings of Johnson's Giammeresi also had a pair of hits in the con­ Keller went three-for-three on the day with home run, the Lady Flames took test. three RBIs. the first game 1-0. On Sunday, Liberty came out firing on all In addition, Nanry put together a solid per­ "I just kept my hands in and cylinders in an attempt to sweep the visiting formance, going two-for-four with four RBIs swung hard and let God do the Highlanders. to lead the Flames. rest," said Johnson. The Flames did so with yet another offen­ Solbach earned his sixth victory of the year, In the second game, the High­ sive outburst, pounding out 14 hits in a 13-5 scattering six hits over five innings, and landers struck first,takin g a 2-0 victory. striking out three. lead going into the bottom of the Tim Nanry started things off in the first The Flames will face George Mason this second. Senior Beth Hensley sin­ inning when he stepped up and delivered a afternoon in Worthington Stadium in a non- gled in the bottom half of the two-run double, giving the Flames the early conference match up. Game time is set for 3 inning, allowing Williams to lead. p.m. score. Aaron Grijalva followed with an RBI Radford extended its lead in JESSICA WEBER SWINGING THROUGH — Senior Jessica Moore launches a home run during groundout, providing starting pitcher Contact Mitchell Malcheffat mjmalch- the third when Ashley Taylor hit Saturday's 9-1 win over Radford. It was Moore's 16th homer of the season. Michael Solbach with an early 3-0 lead. [email protected]. a three run shot to left field.I n

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1^1 wWM Community College ! t , , , , .'I'!' f"*"""i|i 'M^'Wn'Ht'-:!i'-'H**MTH?Fn'^nrJH'*^Tr*H'"nTT"HTr''HMH!'1.HTHIFFri1F>HfTTl^dlfl B MBM APRIL 24, 2007 THE LIRF.RTY CHAMPION, Page B3 Track sweeps Big South Championship

ByWIIILuper three years and were the heavy favorites They are getting it done in form," said Head "We kept gaining momentum, and it just SPORTS RKPORTKR going into the competition. Liberty trained Coach Brant Tolsma. really kept going." •>* hard and felt prepared to dethrone the Sophomore Rebekah Ricksecker attrib­ Senior Arlene Zelinskas spearheaded the The Liberty Flames men's track team took champs. uted it to the momentum gained after the effort, as she picked up 36 points in the high off running this weekend and did not look The Flames' hard work paid off as they women's 4 x 100 meter relay was unexpect­ jump, 100-meter hurdles, 400-meter hur­ back and cruised to an easy finish in the Big finished with 245 points, only 13.5 points edly dominated by the Lady Flames. dles and the long jump. South Championship with top honors. ahead of second place Coastal Carolina. "It's a real answer to prayer, really," said Zelinskas was also honored as the female The Lady Flames came into a meet where "We were definitely the underdogs.... Ricksecker. scholar athlete of the. year, and she was they were expected to take third or named to the women's Big South All- maybe even second place, but instead Academic team. fought a hard battle to emerge victori­ Ricksecker picked up top honors in ous as the number one team. the 1,500-meter run with a final time of The last time Liberty captured both 4:334i- men' and women's team titles was Junior Piper Newby crossed the finish 2002. line in first place in the 3,000-meter The Liberty men finished the tourna­ steeplechase. ment with a total of 248 points. Coastal When the sun went down on Friday, Carolina placed a distant second with the Lady Flames were only up by seven 174 points. points on the defending champion Junior Josh McDougal had another Chanticleers. stellar weekend, winning the 10,000- However, the first women's track meter run, the 5,000-meter run and the event on Saturday gave them the confi­ 1,500-meter run with ease. dence they needed to pull away from the "This will be a confidence booster for pack. us," said McDougal, commenting on The women's 4 x 100 relay team was the strong performance by the Flames actually running together for only the men. second time, but it was one for the "Our guys are coming together as a record books. . team, and we're going to go out there Sophomore Andrea Beckles, junior and get some points." Charlene Hibbert, sophomore Tra' McDougal was one of the many LIBERTY Screen and Zelinskas not only set a Flames athletes that set new records facility and meet record but a Big South this weekend as he finished his 5,000- Conference record as they finished in meter run with a meet record time of 45-95 seconds. 14:06.88. While this was a big win for the Joining him was junior John Hart, Flames, the focus is on the future. who set new meet records in shot put "It's a pretty big deal," said Hart. "As and hammer throw. good as we've been in the past, you can "It was encouraging," said Hart. "It's take a step back and realize that this is always flattering to get a record." the best team we've ever had. We've got His teammate — junior Clendon bigger things in mind." Henderson — who also set a new meet Ricksecker agreed. "Momentum from record in the discus throw, agreed. this meet is really great,* she said. "It's definitely nice to set records," "My number one goal is to get to said Henderson. nationals," said Henderson. "God's really blessed me to get me Hart also noted that the team is large­ where I am today." ly made up of juniors and can only Henderson was the only Flame improve. named to the men's Big South All- "It's only going to get better," he said. Academic team. The Liberty men and women will The Lady Flames had a bit more of a return to action on April 26 in hurdle to jump over coming into this Philadelphia at the Penn Relays.

weekend. JESSICA WEBER The Coastal Carolina Chanticleers HURDLING THE BIG SOUTH — Sophomore Matt Parker leaps over the hurdles during Friday's portion of the Big South Contact Will Luper at wluper@liber- had won the Big South meet for the past Championship. Parker finished second in the men's high jump wih a height of 2.05 meters. ty.edu.

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Available lor a lirriib'Jl u Page B4.THE LIBERTY CHAMPION APRIL 24, 2007 Tennis' Randolph named i FOOTBALL: Spy vs. Spy Player of the Year as men,

Continued from page B1 tion as team captain, Smith Steve Ackley. According to converted his one field goal gave credit where credit was Rocco, Lloyd is "not as talk­ attempt and did not miss a women fall in first round After a shaky start with a due. ative" as last year's defensive PAT. By Amanda Forth The men's team was also few overthrown deep passes, "God has given me a captain, linebacker Manny Walk-on punter Dan Ster- SPORTS REPORTER recognized when junior and suffering from being out unique opportunity," said Rojas. ckz was impressive as well, Sebastian Pena from of sync with his receivers, Smith. "I'm ready to lead us to a booting eight kicks down the History was made on Santiago, Chile, was named Smith settled down and con­ "Words can't express it. national championship," he field for a total of 309 yards Wednesday night when sen­ to the All-Academic Team. nected on a few impressive I'm speechless." said, pleased at the cohesion for an average of 38-plus per ior Jonita Randolph received Pena has been on Liberty's throws downfield, complet­ The relaxed pace of the the defense is showing in its kick. the «• 2007 Big South Dean's list four times while ing 11 of his 20 attempts. game, he said, contributed new formation since Rocco "He came out of Conference Player of the maintaining a 3.7 GPA. He also showed poise to his early struggles. "We took over. "It's a whole lot nowhere," said Rocco. "He Year Award for women's ten­ The two teams went on to under pressure by scram­ were fair," he said, giving easier (after a year)." has the ability to bang the nis. play their last games the fol­ bling or throwing the ball himself a "C+" for perform­ One area the team ball." No Liberty tennis player lowing day in the first round away when trouble came, ance. showed no difficulty, to the In the end, the offense had previously won the of the Big South Conference though he did get sacked Senior Stevie Ray Lloyd relief of the faithful fans, took advantage of the scor­ award, which was given at Tournament. twice. was named defensive cap­ was the kicking game. ing system better than the the annual Big South The Lady Flames played Regarding his new posi­ tain along with fellow senior Sophomore David Drake defense, finishing with a Conference Tennis Banquet the High Point Panthers in a score of 35-25. held at Muse Hall on rematch from last year's con­ Other offensive standouts Radford University's cam­ ference tournament. Last included Wesley Cheek, who pus. Randolph was also year, Liberty as the sixth took eight carries for 47 named to the All-Conference seed upset third-seeded yards and one reception for team for singles and to the High Point. another 16. All-Academic team as well as This year, the women's Senior Brandon Turner being the regular season con­ team went to the champi­ led the receiving corps in ference champion at the onships as a fifth seed catches, with four catches number one singles. against fourth-seeded High for 46 yards. Senior Wynton She went 7-0 against con­ Point and fell 4-1. The Jackson hauled in two ference opponents this sea­ Panthers managed to defeat passes for 63 total yards. son. Randolph, along with Liberty in all but one match, At quarterback, backup junior Martyna Hanusz, also as Randolph won her singles Spencer Landis completed earned All-Conference match against A.C. Talus. eight of his 16 attempts for recognition for doubles. The women's team ended 74 yards. This is Randolph's last sea­ with a 5-12 season record On defense, Lloyd turned son as she leaves Liberty as and a Big South record of 2- out the best performance, the all-time leader in singles 5, tying for fifth in the con­ with seven tackles and a wins. Randolph won over 50 ference. forced fumble. Junior Pat matches during her four The men's team didn't fare Parziale finished right years and went 15-1 this sea­ any better as they lost 4-0 to behind him with six tackles. son. She also served as the top-seeded Winthrop in the Six other defenders regis­ team captain. first round. The men's sea­ tered sacks. "She brings the girls son ended with a 4-17 record, Overall, Rocco has been together," said Head Coach and an 0-7-conference tally. impressed with what he has Chris Johnson. The Flames tennis teams seen since spring training. According to Johnson, she faced a lot of adversity this "We're very far in advance is a leader both spiritually year as both teams had to (of last year)," he said. and athletically, leading overcome obstacles, such as "We're in position to make a Bible studies and prayer adjusting to a brand new run for the national title." groups off the courts. coaching staff this season The Flames' 2007 season "She came in her senior and training brand new play­ will officially begin on Sept. year where a lot of people fall ers, as both teams had sever­ 1 in Lynchburg against Tus- aside, but this year was her al freshmen joining their culum College. best year, professionally and lineup. JESSICA WEBER spiritually," said Johnson. •SHAKE AND BAKE — Sophomore Wesley Cheek rounds the corner during Saturday's blue/white spring scrimmage. Contact David Thompson "She improved every year Contact Amanda Forth at Cheek, who will back up Zach Terrell and Rashad Jennings at running back, had eight carries for 47 yards. at [email protected]. (she's been here)." [email protected].

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/ • APRIL 24, 2007 THE LIBERTY CHAMPION, Page B5 Kinesiology professor Dr. David Horton encourages students to feel the burn

By Karl Mitchell is the hardest race in the world to finish," EDITOR IN CHIRK said Horton, distinguishing Barkley from the transcontinental and the Pacific Crest. alking into the office of Dr. David The time limit to complete the race was 60 Horton was like walking into a muse­ hours, and he ran the race in 58. There are Wum dedicated to a famous athlete. no aides to guide runners along, only books His bookshelf was a library of running materi­ sitting at various posts. The runners are al. Some of the titles sitting on the shelf that instructed to rip out pages of the book to caught my attention were "Fixing Your Feet," confirm that they had passed that post along "Hiking the Appalachian Trail" and "More the Tennessee trail. Than a Run." Horton opens up a plastic bag and shows This baby boomer doesn't just read about me all his torn pages. He laughs at the books running - it's a way of life. I stood staring at they came from -"Always Running," "Flesh the photos and plaques and posters as if I were and Blood," "Escape" and "Limits of Pain," in an art gallery, with every piece being a as well as others. treasure picked up during his journey. He has Horton holds various other records and autographs with notes of encouragement from achievements. He has the third fastest time fellow runners. He has maps with pins mark­ ever on the Appalachian Trail with a time of ing the paths of various races. He has a poster 52:09:42. The race required him to start oh that says, "Run for fun," a motto that would a mountain in Georgia and end on a moun­ make non-runners raise their eyebrows. tain in Maine over 2,000 miles away. He has But that's what Horton does - he runs for the third fastest time ever on the Long Trail fun. The professor of kinesiology at Liberty and has run the Hardrock 100-Mile University often shares with his class the Endurance Run five times, placing in the top importance of attitude. It's not about having three each time. to run, but rather getting to run. This is The running enthusiast is the director of Horton's passion. "I have to run. I want to run. four ultra marathons — Mountain I get to run," he said with conviction. The Masochist 50 Mile Trial Race, Holiday Lake license plate of his red Toyota Sentra, which 50 K Race, Promise Land and Hellgate 100 reads, "I LV2 RUN," reiterates his passion. K. Annie Lively, a student in his kinesiology In total, Horton has about 150 starts, 141 classes, said, "It always amazes me with the finishes and 40 wins. His total mileage is passion and excitement he has in getting peo­ about 104,000, which is equivalent to four ple to exercise. It is so inspiring, and he is a times around the earth, a feat both incredi­ great professor who practices what he preach­ ble and inspiring to his students. es to his students, encouraging us to apply Jimmy Reaves, a 2004 Liberty graduate, what we learn in the classroom to our own took Horton's beginning running class for lives so that we can encourage others in the fun his senior year. same way in our field of study." I am in his beginning running class now. He said he wishes he could transfer to the It's been three years and Reaves still minds of his students all the breathtaking remembers Horton's intensity. "Wait until moments that have made running so fulfilling. he takes you guys on a mud run." He also wants them to feel the pain he's felt on "Oh, we've already been warned," I the toughest of runs. "I wish I could plug replied with a smile. He told us to watch out straight into you, 'WOW WEE,' is what you for the day he doesn't wear his glasses - would say to what I've seen, but then, 'OW,' to we're going on a mud run. all the pain I've felt," he said. Horton likened Horton is still a "wild man," but this is the experience to Christ's crucifixion. Though why his students love him. His passion and painful, the beauty and outcome of the experi­ excitement for life and running pushes stu­ ence make it worthwhile. dents to accomplish things they never This could not only apply to races that thought possible. Horton has run, but also to his life journey, KARI MITCHELL "I would have never thought of running which began in Marshall, Ark. He is one of HE LAPS THE MILES — Horton is a Liberty professor who enjoys getting students excited about running. the Mountain Masochist when I first start­ three children, born to Ezra and Lois Horton. ed," said Reaves, who completed the 50- As a child, he was athletic and competitive. He God has played a significant role in running originally. He began running consis­ mile race in 2006. remains that way today, at the age of 57. In Horton's life. He became a Christian when he tently in grad school to lose body fat and it "Anybody can do it," Horton said. 1971, he married Nancy Paladino. Together, was a sophomore in college when he worked became an addiction. Now his hobby has him "Consistency of training." they have two children in their 30s. at a service station. A youth minister who had standing at a lean six feet. Horton has pushed Lively, as well, At one point in my interview with Horton, been traveling stopped by the station one His hard work and dedication over the beyond what she thought she could accom­ the phone rang. It was a loved one calling to night at 2 a.m. and led him to the Lord. years have paid off, earning him well- plish. "I remember when I first heard of Dr. wish him a happy birthday. Ironically, it was Horton looked at me with a look of amaze­ deserved recognition. "I like to beat every­ Horton's running class. My reaction was, also my birthday. Though 35 years separated ment and asked, "What if he had never done one," he said, his competitive nature clearly 'There's no way I could run as far as they the two of us, his youthful zeal bridged the that? Where would I be?" The sincerity in his shining through. He showed me the plaque he run. No way! I'm all for the short distance gap. "I never grew up," he admitted, laughing. voice led me to believe that the only thing he received after running his first ultra stuff, but distance running is a whole differ­ ! When Horton went off to college, he earned is more passionate about _^^______marathon. He ran the JFK ent game,'" she said. ! himself the nickname of "Wild Man." He than running is his walk 50-miler and placed 24th "Honestly, my intention at the beginning attended the University of Central Arkansas, with the Lord. "I have to run. I want to out of 405 with a time of of taking this class was to stay in shape and receiving his bachelor's in 1972 and his mas­ "God has given me this run. I get to run." 7:43:16. He has run the learn how to run distances, and I have found ter's in 1973. He majored in math and physical talent," he said of his run­ DR. DAVID HORTON race 17'times total. that all of the things I have learned about in education. Before coming to Liberty, he had ning ability. One of his major races this class will carry over into life. I've been an eighth grade math teacher in "When I think of some­ KINRSIOI.OGY PROFESSOR was the North American learned about commitment, perseverance Arkansas. He said he loves math, but he one who is determined, Transcontinental and having discipline, as well as pressing on enjoyed physical education more. committed and is one who goes after some­ Crossing, a nearly 3,000-mile race in which toward the goal while I'm running and in my In 1978, he attended the University of thing they really want no matter what the cir­ he completed in 64 days with the third fastest walk with Christ." Arkansas and received his doctorate by the age cumstances may hold, Dr. Horton immedi­ time ever. "That race was the hardest on the Horton preaches perseverance above all. of 28. Shortly after, he ended up at Liberty ately comes to my mind. It's so inspiring how body," he said. "Don't stop. I hope I have a great run on the University after attending a convention and Dr. Horton has and continues to use his gift of Another major finish was Pacific Crest, day I die," he said. speaking with representatives who were look­ running to bring all the glory to Jesus Christ, which he completed with the fastest time ing for Christian professors to teach at their impacting so many lives along the way," ever. There is a DVD entitled "The Runner" Additional research and contributions university. It was a transition for Horton that Lively said. which documents his journey. "That race was by Katelyn Fletcher. Contact Katelyn would require him to leave his home and That is not the only reason Horton has the hardest (mentally)," he said. Fletcher at [email protected]. friends. After nearly 30 years, he is still a pro­ found running so fulfilling. He also wants to In addition, Horton is one of only six peo­ Contact Kari Mitchell at kdmitchell2@ fessor at Liberty. take care of his body, the reason he began ple to ever finish the Barkley 100-miler. "It liberty.edu.

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, ... x f 3 \ 1 > 1 ; " • » N *•« u J KARI MITCIIKU. EXTRA LONG DISTANCES — The course marked on the U.S. map above shows the 3,000-mile North American Transcontinental Crossing that Dr. Horton ran in 64 days, posting the third fastest time ever. Page R6, THE I.IRI-RTY CHAMPION APRIL 24, 2007 Virgnia Tech convocation helps grieving process

By Erin Fitch the student body, faculty and Warm and appreciative get of sharp criticism from President Bush reminded the avid fan of Christian alterna NEWS REPORTER community opted to watch in applause immediately broke media talking heads and par­ crowd of the enormous heal­ tive music. solidarity from Lane out with the first signs of ents since the shootings ing and power of prayer. Despite the team's housands of Hokies Stadium. President Bush and the First occurred. "People who have never met immense grief, they reiterat­ descended en masse On the trek to the stadium Lady. The screen then cut But while many reporters you are praying for you ," he ed this is not a time for Tinto Lane Field, the from an overflowing away to the flag-wielding questioned how the adminis­ said. anger. Virginia Tech football stadi­ makeshift parking lot, a Corps of Cadets, and the tration could have allowed The picture reminded the "Everyone I've talked to is um. Clasping hands, embrac­ Radford University woman melodious hum of the stu­ classes to continue after the crowds what the tapestry of okay with how it was han­ ing and praying, they proud­ held her chin up in determi­ dent band rang out the Star first deadly shooting, stu­ America is—different peo­ dled," Hunter said, regarding ly bejeweled the campus as nation to offer strength to Spangled Banner. dents from the Tech commu­ ples, different beliefs work­ the media onslaught of criti­ they marched in wearing the the community. The first to attempt to nity stood to pay tribute to ing alongside each other to cism toward the administra­ traditional Virginia Tech col­ "As a student and as a address the great pain afflict­ Steger's leadership nonethe­ create a great nation. tion for failing to warn stu­ ors of maroon and orange. mother, I came here to sup­ ing the Hokies was Zenobia less. "Today we are all Hokies," dents in time and close cam­ While a portion of the port Virginia Tech," she said Hikes, Vice President of "I don't see what more was the phrase ringing out pus after the first shooting. thousands perched in the through tears. Student Affairs. they could have done," said from around the state. "Nov/ is not the time fqr bleachers, most students On the field, students "The world shares our sor­ one fifth-year Corps of But in the wake of such pointing fingers," she said. quietly stormed the athletic reunited with each other for row and pays tribute with Cadets member. horror and unfathomable Even regarding the shoot­ field instead, huddling the first time since the shoot­ us," she said. As the ceremony contin­ grief, Americans from all er and his family, Hunter together in the soft grass. But ing. Of those who lost their ued, uplifting words from regions, denominations and called for forgiveness. this was not a spring football "How are you?" one male lives, Hikes added, "They can Virginia Governor Tim Kaine party lines cast aside dispari­ "I saw a lot of Facebook game the Hokies were com­ student softly asked a female never be replaced, neither in struck chords of compassion. ties to give comfort to the groups wanting to act out in ing to pay homage to. companion. our hallways or in our hearts. The former missionary hurting Blacksburg commu­ anger, but his parents are Instead, the students gath­ "Okay," she said. "Still in a We have lost not just [them], invoked the Bible's most nity. probably hurting even ered to mourn and grieve the little>it of shock." but the sense of peace that familiar stories of pain and For members of the New more," she said. horrific loss of life from the "...Did you know anyone?" comes with learning." suffering with the victory Life Christian Fellowship Terri Dewey, also of Ne\v day before—the day when a he finally asked. She then introduced the that accompanied them. staff, speaking out is part of Life Christian Fellowship, tone gunman massacred 32 "I knew Catie," she said, president of the university, Recounting the age-old the daunting healing process echoed the need for forgive­ other students and wounded her voice quivering. "I went Charles Steger. At the mere story of Job, Kaine reassured they're preparing to help get ness and comfort along with at least 30 more before final­ to high school with her. We mention of his name, the community it was okay to underway. Hunter, and even challenged ly taking his own life. were in AP Chemistry. It's... applause resounded be angry, and with the "It's surreal," said those wanting to reach out to ' But the next day, April 17, so sad." throughout both the arena haunting illustration of Jeanette Staats, a doctoral the Virginia Tech community was a new day. As the ceremony finally and stadium until all atten­ Christ's suffering on Calvary, student and staff member of with ways they could help. The convocation ceremo­ began, the crowd stared dees were on their feet. The assured them once again that the ministry. "I've been here "With classes cancelled for ny was held in the universi­ transfixed at the huge stadi­ force of the emotion behind it was okay to feel despair. for 10 years— I've never seen the rest of the week, a lot of ty's basketball arena, Cassell um scoreboard, yearning to it overwhelmed and nearly "My God, My God, why anything like this." community residents and Coliseum, but with a limited hear words of comfort and overtook Steger. have You forsaken Me?" Engineering graduate stu­ upperclassmen have opened capacity of only 10,000 empathy from the nation's The head of the adminis­ Kaine quoted. dent Deirdre Hunter had their homes to the students seats, thousands more from leaders. tration had been a prime tar­ Taking the stage, trouble even finding the who live on campus, espe­ words to express her shock. cially those from West A.J.," "I can't believe..." she said. "I said Dewey, referring to can'r/believe..." West Ambler Johnston Hall, During the attacks, the dormitory where the Hunter was next door to killings began. Norris Hall in Building 133 "Also, think of creative for a meeting. When the ways for people to tell the sound of the shooter's bullets students here they care," she began piercing the tranquil said. Monday morning hour, Some of these can be as Hunter said everyone on her simple as care packages for floor was ushered into the the residents, filled with hallway for safety. study snacks for up-coming "All the students were exams, spirited colors of the hunkered down, staying maroon and orange, and away from the windows." cards of encouragement and There in that hallway, sympathy. Hunter and her classmates Just like on 9/11, Dewey waited until 1 p.m. for SWAT encouraged others to tell the teams to call them out. students where they were in Hunter later found out from the country when they heard her pastor that a fellow about the massacre and tQ member of the Bible study share the burden of anguish. she attended had been one of Hunter left one last word the massacred. His name of advice. was Jarrett Lane. "Don't forget," she said. Lane, a 22 year-old civil "There's a big tendency to engineering major, was from forget." Narrows, Va. and valedicto­ "We don't know what rian of his high school class. God's going to do... but we His brother-in-law later know He's in control."

told the Washington Post • Ml ALEX TOWERS that he was "fun-loving," Contact Erin Fitch at IN MEMORIAM — Students, faculty, family and others signed the memorial and guestbooks to remember loved ones. "full of spirit" and was an [email protected]. 1 CampusSERVE helps at Master's Inn

By Kristi Kirkland up at Master's Inn last spring and a extra hands means things get done week come to Christ. "It is in our campers will visit the camp during: l.ll-'K! REPORTER group also helped close the camp much faster — for a non-profit backyard," he said, speaking of the the summer, representing as many down this past fall. organization volunteer help is cru­ camp's proximity to campus. as 120 churches. or most college students, Freshman Danyelle Hudgens cial. Junior business marketing Regarding the cleanup on CampusSERVE meets every Saturday is a day to get said she came Saturday morning to major Chelsea Davis attended Saturday, Jay said, "The impact Saturday at 10 a.m. in DeMoss Hall Fcaught up on sleep. But some Master's Inn "to help out wherever CampusSERVE for the first time that we have made will touch thou­ 1H3- students sacrifice those extra hours it is needed." The CampusSERVE Saturday and chose to help with sands of kids in a three-month of shut-eye to spend a few hours volunteers from Liberty were cleanup at the camp because, she period." The camp is set to open the Contact Kristi Kirkland at serving the surrounding communi­ involved in painting, mulching, said, "I just love camps." first week of June, and over 2,000 [email protected]. ty.. That is what a group of about 50 moving furniture, sweeping out Liberty students are involved at Liberty students did this past cabins and doing whatever work the camp in outlets other than Saturday morning, when they they could to help prepare the CampusSERVE. Rebsamen said headed to Master's Inn Camp to camp for the campers that will visit this year they will hire about 100 help in a camp-wide cleanup effort. this summer. for their summer staff, and about The group, which was with The camp sits on about 400 75 of those will be Liberty students. CampusSERVE at Liberty, they acres of land. Rebsamen said that Some Liberty students are also teamed up with the Master's Inn the staff put a lot of planning into involved in the camp throughout Camp staff to help prepare the the recreational aspect of the camp. the year and are able to receive camp for the summer season. They provide campers with many Christian service credit for their Master's Inn is a youth and chil­ opportunities to be involved in a work. dren's camp located just down the wide range of activities from tubing The Master's Inn and the Liberty road from 'Liberty towards and wakeboarding on Smith Youth Ministries Department are Altavista. The camp has been Mountain Lake to a high ropes also partnering together to offer a around since 1974, said Executive course, paintball and archery. Camp Ministry class at Liberty Director Jim Rebsamen. Rebsamen Rebsamen said the camp even has a starting in the fall. Rebsamen said got his start at the camp mowing 1,000-foot zip line — the longest in this class will focus on all aspects of grass 10 years ago when he was a Virginia. running a Christian camp — includ­ student at Liberty and he has been Freshman Abigail Halpin has ing the business side and what it the director of Master's Inn for the been to CampusSERVE a few takes to start a Christian camp. last three years. times, though this was her first Spiritual Life Program Rebsamen said the idea to have time to come to Master's Inn. "I like Coordinator Scott Ray and CampusSERVE involved in volun­ doing active kinds of things," said Rebsamen's brother Jay teering at the camp came after he Halpin, as she helped stain a large Rebsamen, assistant pastor to sin­ met Paul Atkinson, director of wooden platform in the children's gles at Thomas Road, were present CampusSERVE. The two discussed camp area. Saturday to help organize the stu­ the possibility of taking a group of Rebsamen said that having dents. Both are involved in the students from the CampusSERVE Liberty students involved in the camp ministry during the sum­ ministry to the camp to help clean cleanup is a "huge blessing." With mers.

and prepare for the camp's reopen­ so much to do in preparation for Jay said he loves the camp min­ Jl-SSIC'A WEBER ing. A group was involved in clean­ the opening week of camp, having istry and watching 100 to 150 kids a LABOR OF LOVE — CampusSERVE volunteers helped out at Master's Inn on Saturday.

I APRII, 24, 2007 THE LIBERTY CHAMPION, Page R7 Reliving tragedy: From Columbine to Blacksburg, one student recalls her memories of both events By Amy Field at Virginia Tech last week. Still, as as outcasts and dressed to match. I ASST. NEWS EDITOR the university's administration heard their recorded praises of makes accommodations for stu­ Hitler and their words against God. am a journalist. At least, that is dents to complete the year, that pic­ Eight years later, I saw an ABC what I want to be someday. I ture is real. As real as the bullets of headline announce that Cho had Ihave been trained to write well, the killer who made this happen. been a loner and he kept it that way. write fast and write under pressure, I am a Coloradoan. I remember And I remembered. r'have learned that plagiarism is a Tuesday morning, much like last Last Friday, April 20, marked the bad. I have learned how to cover Monday. It was 1999 and I was 8-year anniversary of the stories and how interview individu­ looking forward to being a fresh­ Columbine shootings. The marks of als. But I have not been taught how man in high school. Even though I'd the attack have not faded — I have ftt deal with human pain. I've had been home schooled all of my life, friends who have scars, inside and no classes covering the steps of high school seemed like an exciting out, that will never heal completely. grieving and how to comfort those place to go. I remember listening to The shock and pain is lessened, but who suffer from the inner stabbings the radio. The DJ mentioned some­ I'm not sure if it ever really goes of sadness. I don't know how to thing about a school — an entire away. interview a student who just lost school — being held hostage by gun­ Cho said he believed that Klebold movement in his shoulder and his men. and Harris were his brothers, his gOod friend - both to bullets from I ran to the television and joined role models. I believe they deceived (tie same gun. I'm at a loss at how to the world in watching something themselves. They were victims of ask questions of a suddenly daugh- more riveting than Court TV. I the lie that revenge is everything terless mother. I am a journalist — remember helicopter shots of the and life means nothing. They acted and I am unprepared. building, the relieving sight of stu­ on that belief, thinking that others "»1 am a student. I felt numb when dents filing away from the building had forced them to take the meas­ I'saw the college campus on televi­ and listening to my mom yell, "Look ures that they did. But they alone sion, so physically different from at that! He's jumping out! He's were responsible for their actions, my own and yet so similar in its jumping down!" as Patrick Ireland no doubt. No one made them pull jfurpose — to educate, to train up and other students escaped the the trigger. workers — those who will make this school building via a second-story After the shootings in Colorado, country great in the coming years. A window. My mom kept repeating signs began to appear reading, "We sehool isn't defined as a place to be that the house she and my dad were are all Columbine." safe, but the shooting came as a going to buy when they first moved It is interesting that, in such a shock. A school isn't supposed to be to Denver was one right across from divided society, those who differ on dangerous, either. I tried to picture the school. every level accept such general rny campus — usually alive and "I never realized we might have statements. And sadly, our country humming with the movement of a been protected because we decided has been brought together once busy student body. Then I tried to not to buy it," she said softly. I again. picture that same campus silence by watched photos of Eric Harris and In unison, we say, "We are all death. Dylan Klebold continuously flash Hokies." Starkly empty. Mournful. on our fading Zenith TV screen. Clouded with grief. I can't make They had been loners, each other's Contact Amy Field at afield@lib- ALEX TOWBRS that vision seem real. But it was real friend. They classified themselves erty.edu. MOURNERS—The Virginia Tech campus was flooded with grieving people for the vigil. American Red Cross requests LGH to host help in Virginia Tech aftermath 'Walk for Life7 V1- ByNatasha Kormanik seems that the Red Cross has run into seen a few people who admitted to LIFE! REPORTER a rut lately after experiencing a nation­ donating for the first time because of wide blood shortage that lasted for current events at Virginia Tech. This jhe American Red Cross visited several months. Unfortunately, not just goes to show that, for some, the on April 28 campus April 17 to 19, setting up many students are aware of this short­ idea of donating blood to recent vic­ Li in DeMoss Hall for students to age that has been occurring through­ tims and others is a more personal way donate blood. With the recent tragedy out this time. of helping out. By Rachel Neiswanger life while "encouraging at Virginia Tech, the Red Cross extend­ In addition to the nationwide short­ "Whenever tragedy happens, people LIFE! REPORTER young women to become, ed their three-day visit to four. age is the short supply for the victims are more inclined to help out," said morally sound, mentally The American Red Cross is the of Virginia Tech. In response to recent Arnold. iberty Godparent strong, physically inde- largest supplier of blood nationwide, events, a new location site called the Nevertheless, Campbell County Home supporters will pendent and spiritually according to www.redcross.org. Montgomery-Floyd Chapter has been Account Manager Melanie J. Campbell Lmeet this coming courageous." Almost 4 million people have given set up in the Virginia Tech community said, "It does not really matter to me Saturday for a day of food, Hosting a Walk for Life blood through the organization to for people to donate blood. This chap­ why people come out to donate. I am fun and fellowship cele­ event will give the commir- date, and that number is growing. A ter will also continue to help assist just glad that they are donating." brating 25 years of life-sav­ nity a better idea of what part of the International Red Cross families, faculty, students and emer­ Additionally, Barnes explained that ing ministry in its.annual the Godparent Home is all and Red Crescent Movement, it does gency workers in the wake of the dead­ the recent victims of Monday's shoot­ Walk for Life. All proceeds about and open their eyes more than just donate blood — it also ly shooting in the Blacksburg area that ing are most likely in need of Type "0" will go to benefit the to struggles these young provides food, shelter and counseling resulted in 33 dead and more than 20 blood, which is the most valuable. Liberty Godparent Foun­ teens go through. in times of need. injured. Unlike Type "A" and "B" blood, she dation (LGF). The walk will be a casual ,' In addition, the organization "helps Junior Casey Barnes, who has said that Type "0" is best to give The walk will begin with one-mile event, and there people prevent, prepare and respond donated blood eight times and is a Red because it can go to anybody. check-in and registration will be a barbeque to satis­ td emergencies," according to their Cross member, said, "More people In addition to helping with the criti­ at 10 a.m. The actual walk fy the hunger of the sup­ mission statement. Already, last year's would help out if they knew of the cal blood needs in Blacksburg, accord­ will begin at 10:45 a.m. on porters. Liberty's radio sta­ reports verified that "a million volun­ shortage." ing to the organization's recent press Liberty's outdoor track. tion, 90.9 The Light, will teers and 35,000 employees helped Although many students on campus release, health workers will continue This walk, along with also be at the event with victims of almost 75,000 disasters." In seemed upset about the shortage and to offer a means of support for stu­ financial supporters, will MC Amy Huldstrand cover­ addition, people were able to learn life- the fact that they just did not know, dents and families to come together help raise awareness for ing all the fun and festivi­ saving skills, and U.S. service mem­ students came out to donate blood and express their emotions as part of the LGF's mission and ties. bers separated from their families anyway, and all of them were for dif­ the healing process. vision, which is to save Proceeds from the event were able to stay in touch. ferent reasons. lives and promote alterna­ will go directly to defray Regardless of how popular and Junior Shawn Arnold, a volunteer Contact Natasha Kormanik at tives to abortion. costs for running the widespread their programs are, it for the Blood Drive, said that he had [email protected]. Sheree Bryant, who is Godparent Home. The the coordinator of public desired maximum occupan­ relations and events for cy is 10 girls, but the home LGF, organized the event can house 12 if need be. and is looking forward to Raising money for the the time of fellowship. "I walk can be done as an don't do it for myself — I individual, or a team can do it because I believe in raise more in a group the struggle of the girls and effort. Bryant also stressed want to make a difference prayer for sponsors to be in their lives," she said. partners in financing the "Their pregnancy is just event. temporary, but sharing the The corporate sponsor gospel with them during levels are. Bronze $250, their stay can be an eternal Silver $5*00, Gold $750 gift." and Platinum $1,000. Bryant's goal, along with Pledges were received on everyone else at the or before April 18, 2007, Godparent Home, is to and sponsors will be listed minister to the expectant on all promotional items. mothers by showing them According to Bryant, the testimony of love in educating the campus and their own lives. community about the "Leading by example Godparent Home is one of could be the only chance the primary concerns for these girls get to see a lov­ all these events, and future ing, giving, and kind events will continue to add Christian volunteer," support and effort for the Bryant said. LGF's upcoming goals. According to the Walk for Life brochure, the Contact Rachel Neis­ STEPHANIE RAFATZ desire of those involved is wanger at runeiswunger@ DONATE—The Red Cross visited campus for four days. In addition to the nationwide blood shortage, the Virginia Tech tragedy has boosted the demand. to save an unborn child's liberty.edu. Page B8, THE LIBERTY CHAMPION APRIL 24, 2007 bid you know? Quote of the week: •-. 'file name for the Virginia Tech mascot, the "Hokie," does "Your spirit even in a dark day of optimism and community hot have any connection to turkeys. The word came from a and hope, and of wanting to be together. You taught some­ School chant that was written by alumnus O. M. Stull for a thing good yesterday, even on a dark day, to people all around competition in 1896. During that time, the word was con­ the world - and the world needs that example put forward." sidered synonomous with words like "hooray" or "yeah." — Virginia Governor Timothy Kaine — www.vt.edu from his speech at Virginia Tech on April 17,2007 We're

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CARRYING THEIR CANDLES - - Thousands of supporters gathered at the Drill Field on the campus of Virginia Tech at 8 p.m. on Tuesday, April 17 to commemorate the lives that were lost in the horrific occurrences of the preceding day. 1 Tech Support' now has a different meaning By Marcelo Quarantotto street separating Cassell from Lane friends, audience members stood opposition to the darkening sky. As "Amazing Grace" was again sung LIFE! EDITOR Stadium. and clapped in appreciation for we waited for their return, few across the Drill Field as well as ;~r Once we were given permission, their Chief of State.. words were exchanged. Nothing "America the Beautiful" while stu­ alking on the Virginia the streets came to life as mourners Before media personnel and con­ either of us could have said would dents hugged each other and Tech campus on April 17,1 lined up and walked towards the vocation attendees began strolling have made any sense. I brought a sobbed. But instead of dwelling on became sapient to the hor- campus with quiet strides and a around campus, the group I came book but was unable to read. The the horror that existed in the wake H>le silence that hung in the air. moderate pace while members of with decided to walk around campus only thing I could bring myself to of that egregious day, mourners cel­ people looked at one another with the press sprinted alongside the and visit the various sites that do was to sit between the white ebrated the strength of their com; Jcnipwing eyes and head nods in road. We walked against the flow housed the tragic events from the paper bags that contained a handful munity. Memory of the events that had towards Cassell in hopes that we previous day. We watched as of sand and a candle with an aching "LET'S GO!!!" Jaken place less than 30 hours ear­ could enter the building with our mourners signed the memorial and heart and eyes too sad for tears, "HOKIES!!! lier. press passes that were still sticky listened to students talked in hushed staring at the candle pushed though "LET'S GO!!!" 11 The wind whipped through fast from the fresh layer of purple glue voices about a roommate who was in the bottom of a waxed Pepsi cup in "HOKIES!!! enough to catch the maroon and applied to the Wingate Inn door the hospital and how friends were my hands. "LET'S GO!!!" olange tears before they splattered keys that stabilized our pictures. granted visitation rights to see their As the time neared 8 p.m., Hilary "HOKIES!!! against the pavement — tears that No entry. We tried getting in for suffering classmates. gave Alex a call to inform them of The embracing army of friends pame from a grief-stricken young about a half hour but our relocation bellowed war cries more familiar to iwoman who pleaded with a state got tired after we were jftTffinmmTfflfnnfflWfliffl^ to the field. We athletic events, but the intensity itrooper to grant her entrance into sent back and forth walked through was unparalleled. The volume wa£ fcassell Coliseum. The Coliseum between the same doors. media personnel loud not to the point of merely Was already overflowing with The stadium seemed our who waved to each offending your ears — rather, the mourners more than an hour before best bet. other and talked on voices thudded within your chesjj] the convocation began. By the time we arrived at hip-holstered cell phones above Alex later said that they were chantS J Black Suburban after black van Lane, Governor Tim Kaine was the volume of the despairing mur­ ing louder than he had ever heard ^fter flag-carrying black suburban being introduced. Walking up the mur. Once on the field, we lit our at one of the school's football passed by the lot that myself and bleachers directly in front of the candles next to a group of students games. the rest of my press team — broadcasting screen — normally — one of whom talked about a guy Walking away from the scene) Photography Editor Alex Towers, used to show plays from the football who lived across the hall from him the yowling wind flapped the collar News Editor Joanne Tang and games — I could see a silent sea of during his freshman year who was on my leather jacket and cut thougjj Ppinion Editor Hilary Dyer — stood maroon and orange, rocking back shot multiple times the day before my flesh, but I still felt warm. We Jipon. Inside these appropriately- and forth while embracing each 7:15 p.m. While people gath­ and had enough composure about were given some hot chocolate by 9 Jcolored vehicles, among others, other, sniffling or sitting stone stiff ered around a flagpole between him to fashion a tourniquet out of man standing outside of a Salvation )were members of the Secret with glossy-eyed stares directed Burris Hall and the Drill Field some electrical wire he found in the Army truck who smiled and said, Service, President George Bush and towards the governor, who praised where the candlelight vigil was to classroom to prevent blood from "God bless you," to everyone that lie his wife, Laura. the members of the Virginia Tech be held, members of the press escaping the bullet-torn artery in caught eyes with. The President and his wife, as he community for their strength and gabbed on cell phones. Others his leg. I felt disoriented. Few things in later stated in the convocation serv­ togetherness. asserted words like "Mic!" while A voice crackled though the my life have 1 experienced so vivid­ ice, arrived on campus "with hearts Bush walked on stage in an unas­ stubbly cameramen videotaped and speakers and thanked everyone for ly or have felt more real. I was phys­ full of sorrow." suming suit and tie ensemble to well-garbed broadcasters leaned in coming. With candles upraised, the ically tired and, emotionally, 1 had The sorrow expressed by the address the grieving masses with a over the circle of bowed heads and sense of pride and camaraderie was nothing left. I climbed back into President was met with the somber speech that was as well received as clasped hands that sang the chorus overwhelming. Alex's Xterra as the leaves applaud­ despair of the young men and if it were delivered to a crowd com­ of "Amazing Grace." I could not help admiring their ed and maroon and orange tears women who knew the deceased as prised entirely of his supporters. Alex and Joanne split from school spirit. I could sense that were collected in the air all across friends, roommates, siblings and After talking to the students with a Hilary and me to take shots from everyone wanted to be there and America. classmates. We waited until the rhetoric that made him appear to be within the higher floors of Burris did not look forward to having to Secret Service gave the O.K. to the speaking to a group of his peers Hall of the gathering mourners and part ways with the stone-adorned Contact Marcelo Quuruntotto at police for the crowd to cross the and/or the children of his close (eventually) a field of candles lit in campus. [email protected]. i