the GARRETT REID

BVol. 57 No. 6, OctoberA 13, 2010 GP bagpipeonline.com IPE

Pressing Forward Board of Trustees focuses Members of Covenant’s Board at last Friday’s meeting on Covenant’s future by Kate Harrison and Adrienne Belz and think, ‘Given the mission of the [email protected] WKLT Hopes to college, given the kind of school that [email protected] it is, given its convictions, given the culture, what are those areas that we With no deeply controversial budget ought to be investigating? What areas Ride FM Waves decisions or contentious votes on the do we want to speak into and prepare table, Covenant College’s Board of students to participate in after col- by Juliet Cangelosi station]. At least, that’s how it always Trustees was able to set its focus on lege’”? Nielson said. [email protected] looks,” said student body vice president the school’s future during its meetings Tim Van Vliet, who serves as the liaison last week, according to President Niel POLITICAL, INTERNATIONAL, Covenant’s WKLT radio station, pres- for student publications. Nielson. AND FILM STUDIES ently well-hidden on the Covenant Dodd said he was optimistic that this “We are not facing any major Scots page, may be looking forward to year could be different. crises,” he said, adding that the tenor Jeff Hall, Vice President of Academic a larger audience and bandwidth as it “I’m thinking maybe we’re just the of last week’s meetings was largely Affairs, has a list of programs that he hopes to stretch its influence to an FM people to get the ball rolling and get positive. “I think this session the board hopes could be implemented over the radio station in the Chattanooga area. Covenant thinking about [WKLT] felt like they were part of the future, next five to ten years. In 2011-2012 The radio “station” has evolved over more seriously,” he said. Dodd said the looking forward. That’s what a board the school hopes to launch a political the years as a stream that loops through prime goal as of right now is to “get the does when they’re not having to solve studies program within the history Covenant’s internet. Originally formed word out and gauge student interest.” problems. They think about where the department. This would mean adding in 2005, the WKLT’s sparse staff cur- The short-term plan for WKLT this college is going.” another professor who would special- rently consists of senior Joe Dodd in year is partially to expose the campus The meetings focused heavily on the ize in the ins-and-outs of political leadership, with DJs Zach Barnett, a to the radio station, but ultimately development of academic programs studies and international studies, said junior, and senior Alex Whitaker. The to switch from online streaming to over the next several years, as well as professor of history Richard Follett. group compiles radio shows in their of- a podcast that would be featured on the school’s physical growth as it seeks The strategic plan from the Board fice in Jackson Hall. Originally funded Covenant’s iTunes U account. to stretch its campus southward and includes major initiative to develop an directly through the school, WKLT According to Van Vliet, the station’s increase its student population. international studies center over the now operates independently through current format for online streaming is Nielson said he believes the school next several years. The center would the Student Senate. difficult for PC users to access and Mac is growing more proactive about add- “In the past few years, what I’ve users cannot access it at all. seen as the vice president working with Dodd’s goal is to make WKLT “sort ing academic programs. Continued on page 2 “We’ve wanted to take a step back student publications is the president of WKLT trying to resuscitate [the Continued on page 3 2 News Domestication or Destruction? First Belz’s self-initiated renovations call hall policies into question by Grace Mullaney said afterwards [email protected] Eventually, sophomore Mitch Prentis had what he called a “brief, First Belz’s renovation of their quiet pleasant meeting” with Ford, in commons remains both unfinished which she told him to make a and controversial after a month proposal outlining what First Belz of back-and-forth between the wanted to do, along with a “defined hall and administration about its purpose and vision.” Ford told him legitimacy. that after he turned it into her office According to senior Andrew a dialogue could begin about the Shaughnessy, the quiet commons project. had always been “really nasty and “We are always willing to con- gross”—a room that, for the three sider things in a case-by-case basis, years that Shaughnessy has been on like we are in this situation.” Ford the hall, was only used for stor- said. age, until the beginning of this fall Residents of First Belz say they semester. are grateful for this. “Emily Ford has Sophomore Chris Scharf said been very understanding about it… that First Belz wanted a “chill place we feel really positive,” said Scharf. to hang out and study.” But Shaughnessy expressed that A few of the First Belz men Student Development’s initial cleaned out the room and asked response seemed to be “enforcing ANNIE HUNTINGTON the Founders Resident Director Joe blanket policies before anyone ever Oliver for permission to build and Mitch Prentis works on the mural in the quiet commons of First Belz saw it.” install a bookcase in their new study First Belz residents plan to turn area. on the walls--things that First Belz Both Ford and Oliver declined to they…can’t take things on a case-by- in their proposal for the quiet “When asked permission, I made considers to be characteristic of the either confirm or deny this pre- case basis” Shaughnessy said. commons to Ford sometime this it clear to not do anything that hall and improvements to the space. sumption. In response, some of the First week. They are also in the process of causes any permanent change,” said After discovering the drawings, The residents involved said they Belz residents scheduled a meeting installing a marble coffee bar in the Oliver. Oliver informed First Belz that their felt frustrated at the standardized with Ford. During the interim time space. The men proceeded in building, project had to be approved and told way in which Student Development before the meeting they continued The residents continue to be staining, and installing a bookcase. them to e-mail Facilities Services. handled their situation and the their drawings on the wall, believ- hopeful about the project. “We Meanwhile, they discovered some Oliver also contacted Emily Ford, decisions that were made without ing that if they got in trouble, they are not coming from a high moral old not-too-impressive drawings the Associate Dean of Students. He reasons given to the students. could take a bucket of paint and ground,” said Prentis. “We under- from past residents of First Belz on came back to the members of First “We felt like our ideas weren’t cover over the drawings. stand that we are renters. We are not the walls. Belz asking for specific names of the getting through – all people were Ford inspected the commons fighting for a right; we are humbly They began drawing caricatures people involved. First Belz did not hearing was ‘they’re drawing on the before the meeting with the men. asking for an exception to build a of Lord Nelson and Hemingway, give names, presuming this to be a walls.’” said Scharf. “I do appreciate the creativity and greater hall heritage.” literary quotes, and other drawings part of a disciplinary measure. “Covenant is not so big that the intent behind this project,” Ford New Academic Programs on Covenant’s Docket Continued from page 1 at Covenant while hiring more as something Covenant doesn’t offer— ing fully used in an adult degree department hopes to attract new needed. like American Studies, International completion program, says Nielson. students with its MAT program. “This proposed plan assumes that Studies, or Entrepreneurial Studies. “What Covenant is best at is The Masters can work in conjunc- direct programs and resources relat- more students will come to campus “It could in many senses make residential education that focuses tion with 12 qualifying academic ing to international affairs. as a result of these new academic us bigger than we look on paper,” essentially on the liberal arts and disciplines. The program will “It would bring together a lot programs,” the curriculum plan Nielson commented. implications of the liberal arts in triple the amount of majors to get of things that we’re already doing reads. related disciplines.” the MAT for secondary education well,” said Nielson, citing Cov- One way in which the college OUT WITH QUEST, IN WITH Meanwhile, the education depart- certification, according to Education enant’s push for greater intercultural hopes to add programs without THE MAT PROGRAM ment looks forward to the establish- Department Chair, Professor Jim competency and the proximity of straining resources is by restructur- ment of the five-year MAT (Masters Drexler. the Chalmers Center. ing the interdisciplinary studies ma- While new structures within the of Art and Teaching) program which This weekend the board also ap- A film program would follow on jor (IDS). Ideally, the department academic world at Covenant rise up, will finally be implemented with proved the new program to offer an its heels in 2012-2013. would help students tailor programs other structures are being phased classes starting in May 2011. The Education Studies major to educa- The goal, Nielson said, is to build to careers they may be interested in. out. Quest will gradually be handed program still awaits approvals from tors interested in teaching middle the programs off of “existing com- IDS could offer sample groupings, off to Belhaven University over the the Georgia Professional Standards grades. Those students will also be petencies and capabilities,” integrat- he said, that would allow students next few years. Commission and SACS. under the five year MAT program ing classes and professors already to build a program equivalent to Covenant’s strengths aren’t be- In the future, the Education with the major.

Have a faculty quote you’d like to see published? Faculty Quote of the Week Email it to [email protected] “If I catch anyone cheating, I will throw an unpeeled pineapple at you and then rip out your soul...with love, of course.” -Dr. Kevin Eames, before giving a Cross Cultural Psychology test Arts 3 The Verdict “Through Another Lens” Yes... Filmmaker and Covenant alum Gregg Easterbrook to Fall Break adventures shares his thoughts on film and Christianity by Isaiah Smallman to seriously consider whether I was worked in a specifically, intention- entirely controlled by a single art- No... [email protected] going to move. Out there, obsession ally Christian environment on set. ist, film has contributions from so is demanded. I mean, over a longer By and large I feel like the products many different people who affect its to that impulsive Gregg Easterbrook is a real deal stretch, the divorce rate among of those endeavors typically come outcome and its message that one piercing and / or cinematographer. He also happens people in the L.A. film industry out woefully lacking as a viable person can’t control any more than to be an ’85 Covenant graduate. is stratospheric. 24/7 is no way to vehicle because I think they denude a piece of the final product. Work- tattoo you’re hop- Based in Charlotte, N.C., Easter- conduct a career, but that is what art of the things that give it its ing within that capacity and that ing to impress ev- brook shoots feature films as well people want. I couldn’t risk that. power and exchange or supplant environment to produce a film that as commercials. During his visit to George told me something that that with a message agenda. So yes, is good and true, it’s really a dice eryone with when Covenant last week, I sat down with stuck with me. He said, “Do great I consider myself to be a Christian roll. It’s hard. you get back. him and asked a couple of ques- work wherever you are and the who makes “true” film. I like to talk tions. greater work will come to you.” I to people about true film. Does the What advice do you have have been in North Carolina ever story work on the grounds that the for young filmmakers? Letters to the What was your first move since and every time I look through story requires? Are the characters after college? the lens, I try to do the absolute believable and sensible? Do they Don’t be afraid to give up money editor are best work that I can. It’s great to be act like real people? Does the film for artistic control. Having good welcome! I got a degree in English and a around my family. I have four kids present ideas that are both concrete work that you are proud of and secondary education certification now and they all come on the set and transcendent? Does the film do can show people is so much Send them by email to to teach, with minors in French with me from time to time. a good job of asking really good, more important, especially in the [email protected], and History: a collection of deep difficult questions and placing you beginning, than the money. Once with “Letter to the Editor” but vocationally useless liberal arts. Do you see a distinc- in the capacity of other minds and you can show people that you are in the subject line. The school systems were experienc- tion between being a in other worlds? Art is meant to do creative and capable, they will begin Or send letters to: ing cutbacks and were not hiring. I Christian filmmaker and that, to put you in a place where to pay you what you are worth and The Bagpipe worked a couple of decent jobs, but you can consider, through another trust your creative abilities. Also, Box 689, 14049 Scenic being the cubicle guy was killing a Christian who makes lens (no pun intended), another the relational aspect of film making Highway Lookout Moun- me. I knew I wanted to do some- films? And if so, which orientation of reality. is huge. Film is such an intense, tain, GA 30750. thing in the world of film. I applied would you consider your- consuming pursuit that if you don’t to graduate programs for American self? How does the intensely get along with the others, it’s going The Bagpipe studies in popular culture for three collaborative nature of to be Hell on earth and it will really years and nothing happened. God Well first of all, I do ascribe to the film affect your ability to compromise the work. It’s all about Established in 1955 entered the scene and said, “You presupposition that all truth is story and creativity. make good art? Kate Harrison think you know what you want to God’s Truth. Secondly, I have never Editor in Chief do, but this is not what I want you made a Christian film. I’ve never Unlike art forms which are almost Isaiah Smallman to do, and eventually you will find Managing Editor out that it’s not what you want to ANNIE HUNTINGTON Kathryn Jarrett do either.” I started to realize that Layout Editor maybe I didn’t want to learn about Adrienne Belz News the theory of film. Maybe I wanted WKLT Sam Townes Arts to learn about films by making Continued from page 1 David Pifer Sports them. I got pointed in the direction Lauren Hartzell Features of UNC Greensboro, which I had of like a forum or an open- Garrett Reid Photo never even heard of. It turned out minded voice” for the college, Lianne Visser Copy that they had a solid film program not just introducing new music, Paul McLain Web and wanted to have me. In my last but featuring daily news updates, Daniel Coulbourne Opinion year, I won the Eastman Cinema- interviews, and sessions with stu- J. Davis & A. Lutz Distribution tography Scholarship, which is an dent musicians. VanVliet added, award given by Eastman-Kodak "Having this as a podcast would Cliff Foreman Faculty Advisor to three or four students around give so many student artists the the country. Everyone I talked to option to record and be playing This is a Covenant College student publication Joe Dodd in the WKLT office The views expressed herein do not necessarily couldn’t believe that the fourth win- on air. I haven't talked to a single reflect those of the College or the student body. ner came from such a small, under- student artist who hasn't been ANNIE HUNTINGTON the-radar school. But they paid absolutely ecstatic about that pos- Covenant to be more effective in ing to purchase and install the 14049 Scenic Highway•Lookout Mountain, GA 30750 for my grad school and sent me to sibility." its interaction with area locals. broadcasting equipment. L.A. for four weeks to be mentored The “over-arching vision”—as “They don't really communicate Van Vliet believes that making If you would like the Bagpipe to by some of the best cinematogra- Dodd calls it­—is that WKLT with the community other than the station public could do a run a story on something, send phers in the business. It was utterly would eventually hit FM radio 'Come to college here,'” he said. number of things for Covenant. your suggestion by email to invaluable. waves. Both Dodd and VanVliet A number of things need to “The college is always looking agree that Chattanooga radio lacks happen before WKLT can estab- to diversify the programs it of- [email protected] with Why did you decide not to live in L.A.? a healthy diversity. They hope to lish itself as an official FM radio fers,” VanVliet said. If we had a “Story Idea” in the subject line. fill that void by launching WKLT station. There is much paperwork radio station, the college could I had a conversation with an amaz- on local airwaves. What kind that must be filed with the Federal bring in a communications For advertising inquiries, ing director of photography named of music will listeners hear on Communications Commission be- major and an entirely new way contact Isaiah Smallman George LaFontaine. He helped me WKLT? “Anything and every- fore the initial process of creating of advertising Covenant and ph: (443) 845-7191 realize that the L.A. life is hard on thing,” said Dodd. the station can even begin. After involvement in the community.” [email protected] families and that if I was going to Dodd expressed his desire for that, it takes funding and contract- try to have a solid family I needed 4 Arts LCD Soundsystem Conquers Band’s live show overcomes crummy crowd

ing guitar riffs aren’t for everyone; The intricacy of LCD Soundys- them out in front of the stage. by Austin Humbles most of the crowd just stood there tem’s performance just made the Of course, it was nothing close to [email protected] oblivious for their short set. Their general cluelessness of the Atlanta Altamont Speedway; but it was enthusiasm increased when LCD audience that much more disap- disturbing nonetheless because Last Monday night, dance-punk Soundsystem took the stage, but pointing. I understand that there it clashed so violently with the heavyweights LCD Soundsystem many still seemed lost. are always drunk people at concerts. mood expressed by the perfor- performed at The Tabernacle in LCD Soundsystem plays an People like to have fun at shows, mance. It’s fine if people want to Atlanta. Though the band wan- incredible live show. James Mur- and sometimes they overdo it. A get rowdy during “Drunk Girls,” dered onstage looking like they phy and company have an infec- certain amount of inebriated antics but roughhousing during “Some- had just woke up from an after- tious passion for music that shines are to be tolerated. It’s usually not a one Great” just feels wrong. meal nap, even a stomach full of through their onstage nonchalance. big deal, and it gives you and your During their opening song, a barbecue couldn’t stop a lethargic Their casual demeanor belies the friends something to talk about stranger turned to me and yelled James Murphy from moving the tensions that drive their music: they during the car ride home. But when excitedly, “These guys are the crowd. are masters at building up a song I’m trying to groove to “All My Talking Heads of our generation!” Sleigh Bells opened the show slowly, one layer at a time. Songs Friends” and some drunk dude tries There were moments during with their trademark bone- like “Dance Yrself Clean” sweeten to crowd surf on my head...well, the show that made me wonder shattering loudness. Love them the payoff by forcing listeners to that’s just not cool. whether my generation deserved or hate them, they can only be wait through hints and multiple At the risk of sounding like an to have a Talking Heads. But fully appreciated live—crummy false starts. That element of delayed old codger, the bad behavior of a by the time LCD Soundsystem earbuds can’t do them justice. gratification is present in their few select members of the audience finished the night with “Home,” I Their drum hits rattled the stained studio recordings, but their live had an dampening effect on the en- didn’t care anymore. The drunk- glass windows of The Tabernacle performance magnifies the effect, tire event. Over and over again, the ards turned out to be just one loud enough to hear from a block making the experience hard to same people body slammed, crowd more obstacle between me and away. Apparently feel-them-in- describe without resorting to crass surfed, and otherwise physically the payoff - but the reward was your-gut drum kicks and deafen- metaphors. threatened others until the mob spit well worth it.

YOUCLUBVIDEO.COM Ludacris in Concert: Not for the Casual Fans

by Karin Olson ger for Ludacris, and began chant- Luda performed parts from his [email protected] ing “LU-DA, LU-DA, LU-DA.” more recent hits with artists such After two hours of standing around as Fergie, Taio Cruz, and Justin Last week, Ludacris graced Geor- and hearing second-rate rap acts, Bieber. I found myself jumping gia Tech’s homecoming with his the moment we were all waiting up and down (with my fist still presence. The campus is located for arrived. Ludacris and sidekick in the air, bumping to the beat) in Atlanta, where the rapper grew Lil’ Fate ran onto the stage and the when he rapped his segments from up and started his musical career. crowd cheered. I threw my fist up “Glamorous,” “Break Your Heart,” “What am I doing here? What in the air like For Eyez taught me and “Baby.” At one point Ludacris Ludacris songs do I really know?” and screamed Luda’s name. held out the microphone for the These and other questions Ludacris welcomed the crowd in crowd to sing along to “Break Your flooded in my mind as I found a most politically correct fash- Heart” and most of the crowd sang myself smashed between anxious ion by asking for all his “Asians” Taio Cruz’s part. But without Taio Georgia Tech students waiting to scream, followed by Latinos, Cruz the song did not have the to hear the famous rapper on a Whites and finally “all his Blacks.” same excitement. He began per- small stage in a large abandoned Proud to be in Atlanta, he talked forming another old school song I parking lot. about his beginning days with Lil’ was unsure of, forcing me to bring For Eyez, the opening act, Fate. Luda asked for all the fans my fist down and awkwardly bob gave a forgettable performance, that followed him since his first my head. except for teaching the crowd album in 2000 to scream. There Ludacris performed with a how to put our “fists up in the was a slight roar in the crowd and commanding style and a confident air.” Having never been to a rap I began to wonder if anyone at this flow. Still, when it comes down to concert, I quickly shot my fist up concert was a true fan, or if most it, the concert was best suited for in the air and followed the rest of were simply there because of the the true fans. Maybe one day I will the somewhat apathetic crowd in famous name. appreciate Ludacris’ music and this the motion that I assumed was a Luda performed some of his concert more. But for now I’ll stick part of rap concert culture. older songs such as “Yous a Ho,” to his hits, thinking about how As soon as For Eyez left the “Get Back,” and other songs the “When I was thirteen, I had my stage another mediocre opening crowd half-knew. What really got first love.” act performed. The crowd was ea- the crowd hollering was when SMARTSEXYRICHCRAZY.COM Features 5

To Market, to Market Chattanooga Market bursts with local flavor & creativity

by Molly Anderson crafted jewelry, tie-dye t-shirts, and nooga economy. A local farmer and [email protected] trinkets. vendor from Flat Top Mountain Vendors relish putting out a vari- Farm described the customer profile Have you ever had a real tomato? ety of products because it attracts a at the market. “I would use words How about a real strawberry? Okra? variety of customers. like ‘hippie,’ but really ‘educated’ is Squash? Green Pepper? Fresh “[The Market] is the only business better,” he said. “ It is just smarter YOUCLUBVIDEO.COM produce grown on a local farm by of this type. With all of the differ- to buy local. You get better flavor people you know has a flavor all its ent attractions here at the market, for the same price, and you are own. On Thursdays, Saturdays and your product is really visible. stimulating the local economy. “ Sundays, the Chattanooga Market And the customers are genuinely And what could be better on a bursts with local flavor. interested about the local busi- Sunday afternoon than shopping Chattanooga Market is a step nesses. We educate people on the outdoors, sampling good food, and above the typical farmers’ market. importance of locally grown and hearing free concerts by local musi- Along with produce and vegetables, handmade products. We support cians? the Chattanooga Market sponsors each other,” said Joan, who has “I come almost every week. I local artists, clothing designers, been selling her homegrown lettuce peruse the merchandise, always grab craftsman, and non-profit orga- and handmade salad dressing at the something to eat—usually barbeque nizations. In the First Tennessee market for two and a half years. or a slice of Lupi’s—and stay and Pavilion, the concrete warehouse Many of the vendors know their listen to music for a while,” said plots look like a fair ground, with customers by name because they Katherine, a local who faithfully stands lined up in front of a dining come each and every week to buy attends the market. “It is like a area and live music stage. Walk in their produce. comfortable, neighborly party every and sample the homemade salsa at When products sell for the same Sunday.” the produce stand. Try the delicious price as the grocery store, sup- So taste some fresh fruit. Buy a ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF CHATTANOOGAMARKET.COM pumpkin bread by the baked goods. porting local farmers and artists handmade glass wind chime. Local Browse the hodgepodge of hand- is simply smarter for the Chatta- is better.

The Market rotates between Miller Plaza on Thursdays 11 am-2 pm, the Tennessee Aquarium Plaza on Saturdays 10 am-5 pm, and the First Tennessee Pavilion on Sundays 11 am-4 pm 6 Opinion Parking Article Doesn’t Soothe Frustrations by Liz Saurino ing the weekends; they are not every day. or properly marked with spaces, I the ones who become forced to park [email protected] commuting every morning to an Costs related to parking are also run the risk of getting blocked in by in Scotland Yard. I already leave early class. I find it frustrating that ambiguous. An off-campus parking students in a rush. my apartment 25 minutes before As an off-campus student, I found sophomore girls can leave their cars permit is only “free of charge” with As helpful as comparisons to class, and adding a 10-minute walk last week’s Bagpipe article on parked in Jackson during the week, a main campus parking permit; that other schools are, we are not the to that every morning is a pain- campus parking hard to swallow. and although my commute alone is to say, you must pay $100 to re- University of Georgia. The real ful thought. The solution, then, is Campus parking is very frustrating is longer than the time it takes to ceive an off-campus permit. You can comparison to be made here is equally simple: provide off-campus for me, to the point that I believe walk from Andreas to Brock, I am imagine my frustration that a mere among Covenant students: are parking in Jackson Lot, or require action should be taken. Let me somehow expected to also walk 12 parking spaces are reserved for off-campus students receiving the a greater number of underclassmen explain. from Scotland Yard up to campus. off-campus students, and 95% of same kind of parking benefits as on- to park in Scotland Yard. They will The article reports that most It’s true that Scotland Yard is an oft- main campus parking is full when campus students? Perhaps on paper, make the hike one or two times a parking complaints come from avoided lot, but common courtesy I arrive on campus. I am forced to but not on Monday morning. week. We will make it every day. off-campus students, and for good suggests that students who use park- compete with the other 45 off- The problem is simple: because reason. On-campus students need ing lots less should brave the longer campus students for parking, and off-campus students are not parked only worry about parking dur- walk, not students who commute since many of the lots are not paved on campus most of the time, we are Letters to the Editor After having read Austin Humbles’ article about Mountain Affair in last week’s Bagpipe, I was disappointed to see accusations accumulating against him on Facebook. Mere hours after people had a chance to read Mr. Humbles’ article he was being called out for “utter nonsense,” “musical ignorance,” and an inability to analyze a song. I have some questions for those who are so disgusted by the critique this article offers. Where is the acceptance of a subjective critique? The article is only Mr. Humbles’ opinion, and never claims it as objective. Is no one will- ing to accept constructive criticism? Take it as a charge to analyze your art, and hone your skills even further. Is that not part of the desire to become a better artist? If art went without critique and constructive criticism, artists would rarely feel the need to perfect their craft. The article also raised a valid question in its overview of the Mountain Affair performances. Maybe we should make it a point to prove the critique wrong, that the “... best talent at Covenant College may [not] have already JAMES HARRISON, ‘10 graduated.” You are entitled to your own opinions about this. But instead of calling out Mr. Humbles, take charge of your craft; instead of wast- ing time on Facebook and writing frustrated posts, commit yourselves to becoming even better artists. Let’s not skew one article's opinion into a personal vendetta. -Joe Dodd Bee in your

The recentBagpipe article written by Mr. Humbles was crude and at times too personal, at times breaching a level of criticism that I feel violates the bonnet? rights of any musical critic. For instance, the claim that Covenant's greatest talent may have already graduated takes either complete omniscience or a reliable form of clairvoyance. But while I disagree with Mr. Humbles on his critique, it is not my place to become either enraged or attack the credibil- ity of the Bagpipe. I don't think anyone has that right. There is a disturb- ing hypersensitivity in our psyche that makes us think differing opinions comment on an article. ought to be sugared up, ignored, or silenced entirely. But Mr. Humbles is fulfilling a vital role in the Covenant community, and that is encouraging go to bagpipeonline.com us to better ourselves through criticism. Let's face it--we have problems here. Students feel the administration doesn't care about them or cherished Covenant traditions, the administration feels attacked by everyone, and members of the faculty could use a dose of honesty from both groups as to how they teach classes and judge students. Criticism may hurt, but in the end it helps us become a better institution. As such, I don't think anyone Correction: Last week’s article, “Dark should be attacking the Bagpipe for its arts or opinions article; it has a fundamental right, and we have a desperate need, for the kind of criticism Night of the Soul a Melancholy Dreamscape” was the Bagpipe offers us. misattributed to Brian Stair. The article was writ- -Timothy Van Vliet ten by Walter Somerville. Opinion 7

Perhaps the biggest understate- they wish us to become conserva- as our highly esteemed Chalm- ment of the American life is the tive. Perhaps they hope that the ers Center) are more effective one that says politics is a difficult conclusions we draw from their in caring for the least among us issue. When it divides, as it often instruction and wisdom will lean than the government programs does, it divides bitterly, caus- the student body in a more conser- President Obama is attempting The ing anger, false rhetoric, and at vative direction. Perhaps so, but to create, you are a conservative.” times racism or hatred for those it does not matter what the faculty No Mr. Scott, this simply does who would dare to hold another and staff think of our political not follow. You have thrown a belief. Even as it unites people, it ideologies. What matters is the blanket across the entire student Thinking tends to unite people against “the official position of the college, and body. I know of Christians who other party” rather than around the official position of the college consider themselves “progressive” a set of common beliefs. This does not seem to be “to equip the or “liberal” who have no problem has been my experience growing Christian man and woman with a with Christian charities or the up in the “Deep South” in the politically conservative ideology.” church doing her job to care for Christian United States. Personally, I dislike Mr. Scott continues with “In the least among us. Simply be- broadcasting my political opinions any political circle in Washing- lieving in a charity does not make outside of my room or to close ton, D.C., if you are pro-life you someone conservative. A response to friends; however, Ben Scott's ar- are considered conservative,” and Mr. Scott would have us ticle “The Thinking Conservative” other grandiose statements about believe that not only is Covenant gave me enough pause to write an so-called “conservative” political College preparing us to be good, “The Thinking article in response. leanings or beliefs, some of which I “thinking conservatives,” but Mr. Scott begins his article believe adhere with Holy Scripture. that in our training to think Conservative” with “Covenant College is in the But adherence to Holy Scripture and assess our world critically, business of breeding thinking does not make a political belief or we will come to “conservative” conservatives.” This is a fine state- ideology, just as attitudes about a opinions. In bolstering his argu- By ment, but I believe it is misguided. person do not necessarily make a ment, he appeals to the authority In fact, I would propose that person that way. If I consider you of “Washington D.C.,” claiming Covenant College is actually in to be a goat, no matter what city I that “they” would consider us all Paul the business of breeding thinking live in, no matter where I work, no “conservative.” I did not know Christians. I would invite you to matter how hard I try to consider that Washington D.C. was the McLain look at Covenant College's State- you to be that way, it does not final authority on political beliefs [email protected] ment of Purpose, which in the mean that you have two horns and and ideologies. Yes Mr. Scott, 2008-09 catalog ­­­­—the catalog I four hooves. My consideration of you have put us in a box, but was given my freshman year—said­ you as a goat does not make you what a flimsy box it turns out to nothing about breeding any sort one, and what Washington D.C. be. I would propose to put the of political sentiment among the thinks of a few students in rural student body into a different, student body, and I think Mr. Georgia does not really matter to better box: that of the “Thinking Scott knows it. me. Christian.” Only then as a Think- But perhaps this is a little I'll examine just one more quote ing Christian will we be able to trivial. We do have some conser- from Mr. Scott: “Also, if you determine where our political vative faculty and staff on campus, believe that Christian charities and ideology lies. Shockingly, it may and perhaps in some small way para-church organizations (such not be conservative. Haddad Hashes Out Health Care A professor responds to Ben Scott’s “The Thinking Conservative”

A letter from apply if it doesn’t cost me money? efits from universal health coverage. Dr. Daphne Haddad [And don’t respond that such When my mother died two years Professor of Education care is the duty of the church. May- ago (in England – I’m English by be so, but the fact is that the church birth) after several weeks of hospi- Ben Scott’s otherwise excellent does not (and cannot) provide medi- talization, my 92-year-old father’s editorial “The Thinking Conserva- cal care, and sick people can’t wait grief was not compounded by the tive” derailed itself with this claim: until reality (the “is”) comes into line stress of having to navigate reams of “You might claim that you are for with ideology (the “ought”).] medical bills arriving in the mail. universal health care coverage, but in 2. Universal health coverage, in- When I needed antibiotics on a trip reality, would you rather pay higher cluding Great Britain’s version, does to England, I walked into the local taxes, wait longer for care, and have not prevent anyone from getting im- doctor’s office, waited about 20 min- comment on an article. less control over which doctor you mediate care or from selecting their utes to see a doctor (wait your turn can see? My guess is you would doctor. In England it’s called “going in the no-appointment mornings; go to bagpipeonline.com rather have American health care private”: pay fees for service, and you appointments in the afternoons) and coverage than that of Great Britain.” select your doctor and get immedi- got my prescription. The paperwork Um, wrong guess. ate care. And those fees are much consisted of filling out a half sheet of Let’s think this through: (much!) lower than their equivalent paper with my name and local ad- 1. If those with jobs (i.e. pay- in the U.S. dress. Oh, and in England, the stress roll taxes) pay more tax to ensure 3. At the same time, nobody is of losing a job is not compounded universal coverage for the children of ever denied access to care. It’s a fair by the stress of losing health care the poor and for those without jobs, bargain to say you can get the care coverage at the same time. isn’t that our Christian duty? After you need at no charge, but you’ll I could write more, but that all, we’re commanded to care for the have to wait in line for elective should be enough to stimulate some vulnerable and marginalized, the services and you’ll have a limited of the thinking that Ben’s article widows, orphans, and aliens within selection of doctors. recommends. our gates. Does that command only 4. There are other, intangible, ben- 8 Sports BOOM! The Scots Dazzle in Homecoming Games

by Chris Sossou the team's tough 1-0 defeat at the [email protected] hands of the Lady Eagles last year, and for those players still on the Around this time every year, many team, revenge was needed on this of Covenant College's alumni, par- particularly meaningful night. For a ents, professors, and students gear while though, it seemed as if Asbury up for the tradition of Homecom- were going to be the victors in what ing weekend. Marked by changing was turning out to be yet another leaves, dropping temperatures, and closely contested match between the a plethora of organized events, the two schools. fun-filled October week is warmly Goalkeeper and senior captain received by students from both the Bethany Holman, who has amassed past and present. This week's events seven shutouts during the season, were able to culminate in a newly- was playing up to her lofty stan- improved tradition: the Homecom- dards as she denied Asbury on a ing soccer matches. With new lights host of occasions when it appeared allowing for the games to be played as though the visitors were going at night, and the added promise of take the lead on a breakaway or a fireworks show following imme- close-range shot. “Bethany has a diately afterward, students took one great presence on and off the field,” last chance to display their Cov- said Coach Duble after the game. enant pride by “strutting” to the “She leads this defense and has game as a herd of unified blue and given up only two goals all season.” white supporters. And in the end, Holman's crucial saves, coupled whether truly attending to watch with the efforts of the defense in with a different type of excite- senior winger scored his second of the Scots and Lady Scots soccer front of her, kept the opposition off ment. With the sun having gone the night to end 5-0 in Covenant's teams, or to be in prime position the scoreboard, the match square down, and the field a luminescent favor. to watch the fireworks afterward, a at zero-zero, and the Lady Scots in green under the lights, the Scots “Julian definitely had a hot foot crowd of over one thousand strong the game. Then, with a mere six took to their emerald stage and on this homecoming night,” said turned out at Scotland Yard on minutes left to play, the offense destroyed LaGrange University with Coach Pifer. “He was scoring goals Saturday night. finally capitalized on the defense's a multitude of thrilling goals from and providing assists, which made With the volleyball and cross efforts and scored in dramatic the start. Covenant, riding high on it entertaining for our alumni and country teams unfortunately on the fashion. Sophomore forward Kara an eight game winning streak, had fans to watch.” road for “home” coming, the task of Lee received a pass on the left side, come out to play. Sophomore Chris Even a late consolation goal from taking the more athletically-gifted clipped it over the onrushing Lady Pifer began things when he headed LaGrange, the first conceded by the alumni back to their glory days Eagle's keeper, and slotted the ball in a pass from teammate Julian Covenant men at home this season, was left at the feet of the men's and into the back of an empty net for Allgeier just six minutes into play. could not dampen the atmosphere. women's soccer teams. the late winner. It proved to be an Allgeier then scored one himself After the on-field fireworks were The ladies were up first, kicking exciting ending and due reward for before turning provider to Chris finished, the fans hung around and off against Asbury University, which the fans in attendance. Pifer and Garrison Dale for the witnessed an impressive display of has given them trouble in recent If the women's game was a thrill- third and fourth goals in the open- real fireworks that lit up the Look- seasons. Any first year alumni pres- ing encounter at the very end, the ing forty-five minutes. Just thirty out Mountain sky and provided a ent at the game surely remembered men's contest provided spectators seconds into the second half, the proper ending to an eventful week.

ANNIE HUNTINGTON