October 15, 2009 • Volume 79 • Issue 5

NEWSBRIEF

Pg. 9Athlete Spotlight: Debra Grijalva

Pg. 11Faculty Focus: Dean Graham

C OV E R I NG the C A M P U S and C OM M U N I T Y

T he W E E K LY T R IA NG L E

Wi ng at e Un ive r s i t y, Wi ng at e , NC Marc h 1 8 , 2 0 1 0 • Volu m e 7 9 , Is s u e 2 0

New Master’s of Accounting program Pg. 2 Who is going to win the NCAA Tournament? Pg. 3 Day for Wingate Pg. 5 Intramurals prepare for spring season Pg. 7

Charles A. Cannon’s legacy Pg. 12

Movie review Pg. 13 W’International camp out and free movie tickets Pg. 16

Merkerson’s journey includes more than just football, inspires others

Photo by Megan McVicker

Senior Tylan Merkerson’s story of faith has caught people’s attention. As a result, his writing may be featured in a book.

Steven Grandy Staff Writer

Imagine that you are about to play in the biggest game of your life with one of your parents about to undergo a life threatening operation the day after the game. Hard to stay completely focused on the game, isn’t it? However, Wingate senior football player Tylan Merkerson was able to do just that by doing something that sounds simple, but isn’t: trusting in God. Because of Merkerson’s trust, an opportunity that “I never dreamed of” may be knocking on his door. On Sept. 24, Merkerson and his Bulldog football teammates played Tusculum in one of the biggest games in school history. The game marked the first time that Wingate was presented to a national audience as the game was shown on CBS College

Sports. “It was a special moment,” said Merkerson. “I dreamed of playing in a TV game and it was my first and only opportunity.” As part of Wingate’s coverage of the game, Merkerson was asked to do a blog of his experiences, which included details of a battle much more important than the one that took place on the football field. The day after the Bulldogs game against Tusculum, Merkerson’s father

was scheduled to undergo an operation to combat liver cancer. Despite the significance of the operation, Merkerson kept all knowledge of it to himself. “I knew the importance of the game and didn’t want to show weakness or create a distraction,” said Merkerson. “I had the high of playing in such

a big game but legit fear for my father. I just gave it up to God.”

That decision turned out to be the best choice Merkerson

could make. “I had to trust in God in that situation,” Merkerson said. “Without Him, I would have been a wreck. He gave me the confidence on the field and belief in the doctors. I didn’t worry. I saw what happens when you give it up to God.” In the Bulldog game against the Pioneers, Merkerson played one of the best games of his career. Merkerson had four tackles and two interceptions. Both of Merkerson’s interceptions came in the end zone, preserving a 41-34 victory. “My dad was able to watch the game in the hospital. Seeing my game I think gave him the strength and confidence he needed for the operation.” Recently, Merkerson was contacted by Pat Williams, vice president of the Orlando Magic. By e-mail, Williams explained See ‘Merkerson’s journey inspires’ on pg. 8

News2 The Weekly Triangle

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Samantha BareNews Editor

Wingate University’s School of Business is offering a Masters of Accounting (MAC) program starting this fall. According to Joseph Gra-ham, dean of the School of Business, the program can be completed as a full-time stu-dent in one year – “two semes-ters (fall and spring) plus one summer,” he said. The summer courses do not have to be com-pleted on Wingate’s campus, and part-time students will be able to complete the program in two years. He said, “The course content is geared directly toward the content of the CPA exam. This is the premier professional credential in the accounting profession.” While most states require a CPA to have com-pleted 150 credit hours, the MAC provides students with at least 155 hours, he explained. Also, many large firms only hire those students with a master’s degree. Normally, MACs are only offered at larger schools. However, students who came to Wingate for its small school, community feel can continue

to experience that atmosphere when completing their mas-ter’s. “Students who come to Win-gate for their undergraduate degrees and meet certain grade requirements in the prerequi-site courses will be guaranteed admission into the Master of Accounting program,” he said. Students who are not cur-rently accounting majors can also apply for the program. They must complete 18 credit hours of prerequisites before being admitted to the program. Those classes include: Prin-ciples of Financial Account-ing, Principles of Manage-rial Accounting, Intermediate Accounting I and II, Federal Income Tax and Auditing. The School of Business’s accrediting agency, the Asso-ciation of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs (ACB-SP), the same agency that ac-credits the School of Business, has given the school permission to begin the program. “As is normally the case with new programs, we will apply to them in two years for full accreditation. We sent a pro-spectus in early October of last year describing the program to the University’s regional ac-

crediting agency (the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools),” said Dean Graham. “We expect to hear from them in the near future.” Jobs in the accounting field can include public accounting, corporate accounting, govern-ment and non-profits, accord-ing to Dean Graham. “Many students who take a master’s in accounting and pursue the CPA exam look for initial employment with a pub-lic accounting firm, where they will be exposed to many differ-ent types of businesses while working in either auditing, tax, or consulting,” he said. “If they decide to move out of public accounting, they are in a good position since they have accumulated valuable experience and learned how a lot of different businesses or organizations operate.” Applications are now being accepted for the program and can be requested by e-mailing mac@wingate.edu or by going to Dean Graham’s office, lo-cated in Bridges 112. For more information, contact Dean Gra-ham at graham@wingate.edu, Dr. Tom Crawford at tcraw-ford@wingate.edu, or Profes-sor Bob Threatt at rthreatt@wingate.edu.

School of Businessto of fer Masters of Accounting program

Avery DayStaff Writer

This past weekend, three students took the stage in the Batte Center and performed the hit musical written by Jonathan Larson, “tick, tick…BOOM!” Starring in the musi-cal were Zackery Morris, Jes-sica Bachelder and Alex Yost. The play is set in 1990 where Jonathan (Morris), a strug-gling composer who is turning 30, has yet to accomplish his dream of performing on Broad-way. His best friend Michael (Yost) just bought a high rise in New York City and is trying to sort out issues with his girl-friend Susan (Bachelder). The musical is meant to be funny and light-hearted, de-spite the characters’ troubles. Larson also wrote the famous musical “RENT” for which he won a Pulitzer Prize

and a Tony Award. “tick, tick…BOOM!” however, is the autobiographical story of how Larson’s career started. As you may have noticed, there are only three perform-ers in the whole musical. Larson actually designed the play this way so that the actors would have to play multiple roles. Morris, as he said it, had “healthy anxiety” about only having two other people performing on stage with him. He said, “There is nothing like rehearsing for weeks, having no clue as to how you are do-ing other than what a director tells you, then finally having an audience to react to what you do.” He believed the show, which consisted of three per-formances between Mar. 11-13, had a great outcome.

“tick, tick...BOOM!” explodes onto campus

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OpinionsThursday, March 18, 2010 3

Jill CorboEditor-in-Chief

Cameron QuickManaging Editor

Sam Bare News Editor Doug Coats Opinions Editor Megan Wood What’s Going On Editor Steven Grandy Sports Editor Kevin Goode Features Editor Allison Smith Copy Editor Chris Siers Copy Editor Zach Wallace Distribution Manager

Staff Writers: Morgan Bourne, Sarah Briggs, Chelsea Cancelliere, Avery Day, Tim Elliott, Sabra Hart, Jennifer La

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Get involved: Join SGA

Student SpeakWho is going to win the

NCAA Tournament?Brittany HornerSenior

Barry Gulledge JrSenior

Jared GardnerSophomore

Chelsea CancelliereSenior

Drew DavisSenior

Rory GreenJunior

“Kentucky”

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“Kentucky”

“Syracuse”

The Triangle staff asks to please recycle this

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Opinions4 The Weekly Triangle

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Doug CoatsOpinions Editor

May 8, 2010 is a day that looms large for graduating seniors. It marks the ceremonial conclusion of hundreds of students’ college careers. Those students and their families are not the only group readily anticipating that day. Celebratory event merchandiser Herff Jones takes full advantage of high school and college graduates and their families, in addition to churches and sports organizations. The official term, “commencement” suggests starting a new chapter in one’s life. In fact, we do have to find something else to do for the rest of our lives, whether that is attend med school for several more years or join a marketing team for a Fortune 500 company. Leaving college also means starting to pay back the several thousand dollars worth of loans that accumulate over four years. Of course, having to pay for tuition and loans is financial burden enough for graduates, especially since entry level-paying jobs are on the horizon. In addition to these huge payments, seniors were hit with a whopping $90 graduation fee on their account. Isn’t paying for tuition and room and board enough to cover the cost to hold an

annual on campus ceremony? According to Assistant registrar Latia Allen, the fee goes towards the labor and rental for setting up the stage and chairs in the Quad. The graduation fee is just the beginning for the class of 2010. At the graduation fare, a representative from Herff Jones provided information and prices regarding announcements and class rings. They also offer diploma frames. It is great to contact as many people as possible to remind them of graduation, but the prices for such services are monopoly-like. To send out 25 announcements with all the proper inserts and envelopes costs $67.85; and that does not include shipping fees. A package of 50 announcements and thank you notes and 60 return address labels will set you back $181. This is not the only area under the control of the Indiana-based company. Graduating families from Reed College in Portland, OR to Rollins College in Winter park, FL pay crazy fees for packets of paper and a monochromatic gown. What other article of clothing besides the graduation gown will you pay $26.88 for and only wear for a few hours. Crossing that stage will be one of the most gratifying feelings we will ever experience. This experience comes with a price, though. If only there was another competitor in this

Last Tuesday, students were given an opportunity to get a taste of “real world” dining. Rebecca Pitts, a Personal and Professional Protocol Officer and Wingate Alumnus, presented a full Laverne Banquet Hall crowd with a lesson in dinner etiquette. The dinner, which was provided by 60 families in the Parents Association, was designed to help students improve their etiquette in order to get an edge on the competition in the business world. Sharon Robinson, Director of Internships in the Office of Career Services, thought the event provided great benefit to those who attended. “It was fun to have a nice meal and get together,” Robinson said. “Knowing proper etiquette builds confidence and is a great learning experience.” Even before given a chance to take a sip of juice, the first lesson Pitts taught was how to sit down properly with a guest. Other lessons Pitts presented were how to eat soup, break bread and even pay for the meal. The several course meal with all the proper dining wear consisted of soup, bread, lemon chicken, mixed vegetables and strawberry-covered pound cake. Although some of these tips were old hat to some, Pitts had an answer or every aspect of a meal. “I learned a lot of tips about how to handle the entire bill-paying situation,” senior Kristina Lawless said. Pitts encouraged those who are

inviting a business guest to a meal should give the hostess the credit card prior to coming in for dinner. Pitts certainly has ample experiences in the world of etiquette. She recently retired working as the Protocol Officer for Bank of America and is certified and trained by the Protocol School of Washington, D.C. The tips and techniques offered can help someone land a job, gain a promotion or seal a sales pitch. “It never hurts to know how to behave in a business dinner situation,” Lawless said. Students who may have felt overwhelmed by the volume and detail of the properly-mannered dinner should not worry. “Sometimes those dinners may not be as fancy,” Robinson said. The packet given out included diagrams of setting with up to 11 pieces of silverware. Like any Lyceum, the dinner was free to students. According to Robinson, presentations like these usually cost $1000 and not many schools offer them. Lawless is not the only one who enjoyed the dinner. The Office of Career Services sent out surveys to the attendees. “We received rally good feedback from the surveys,” Robinson said. “We can now represent ourselves and the university well,” said Lawless. The next Career Service event is the Career Fair on March 24.

Doug CoatsOpinions Editor

Paying for graduation:Who really celebrates?

Impressing beyond the resume

What’s Going OnThursday, March 18, 2010 5

Weather WatchThursday, March 18 Friday, March 19 Saturday, March 20 Sunday, March 21 Mostly Cloudy Sunny Mostly Sunny Showers High: 68 High: 70 High: 69 High: 64 Low: 42 Low: 43 Low: 52 Low: 39 Monday, March 22 Tuesday, March 23 Wednesday, March 24 Sunny Partly Cloudy Mostly Cloudy High: 63 High: 63 High: 66 Low: 38 Low: 47 Low: 41

2010-2011

W’International Trips: Denmark, Egypt, Caribbean,

France, Norway, Switzerland

Camp Out begins March 22 at 7 a.m.

Things you should keep in mind...

Junior registration begins•Last day to withdraw with •grade of a “W”

March 18

March 24Sophomore registration begins•

Kevin GoodeStaff Writer Five years ago, Wingate made changes to one of its long time traditions. What had been in the past, a breakfast for invited volunteers interested in garnering support from the community has flourished. It’s now a dinner set with keynote speaker alum, an address by the University’s President and student speakers. Day for Wingate has al-ways been about those that already love and know Wing-ate, educating those that have an interest in learning what the university has to offer, said Judy Davis, coordinator of events and services. March 15, annual volunteers that have been asked to be table captains at a dinner held in Laverne banquet hall will invite several guests to come to campus and hear all about Wingate. The guest will not only hear about what Wingate has to offer, but more impor-tantly, guests will be given the opportunity to give financial support for some to help some

of the universities programs. “It’s one of the few times during the year that we do use so many volunteers to actu-ally tell the Wingate story and to help us kindly solicit gifts,” Davis said. The dinner itself each year features a keynote speaker which is usually alum. This year’s speaker is Reverend C.F. McDowell. “I graduated in 1985,” Mc-Dowell said. “The day I walked on the campus I developed a love for the school and I have enjoyed keeping a relationship with the university. It’s really great that I get to chair such a great event 25 years after my own graduation.” The theme for this year’s dinner is touching the future. All money raised will go into Wingate’s annual unrestricted funds. The money in the past has been used to support student internships, foreign travel and even study abroad programs. This year as was last year the money is going to sup-port students. This year with the economy the way it’s been the university

made the decision that all an-nual fund money raised would be used to help students that might be having a little bit of a problem afford college cost, such as books or other fees,” Davis said. Day for Wingate will also feature student speakers. Each will give the audience just a bit of background about themselves as well as inform-ing those in attendance a little about what Wingate has meant to them personally. Those in attendance will be locals and businesses. Each year, along with its list of individual supporters Wingate has also gotten sup-port from the local business community as well. That list of supporters includes: Intrigrity Marketing, Flying Bridge Roy-all Co., Goulston Technologies, Contemporary Benefits, Fifth Third Bank, Union Power Co-operative, First Citizens Bank, McCollum Trucking, Hinson Electric, Love Plumbing First Baptist, Laurinburg, Elevator Technical, and Services Goo-drich.

Day for Wingate incorporates school’s alumni, current students

What’s Going On6 The Weekly Triangle

UPcOMING eVeNtSThursday, March 18

Lyceum: Leadership Certificate @ 6 p.m.Lyceum: BB&T Lecture: Democracy is

Development @ 7:30 p.m.Grill Out Hosted byDelta Sigma Pi

@ 9 p.m.Friday, March 19

Softball v Georgia College (DH) @ 2:30 p.m.

Xi Hop @ 10 p.m.Saturday, March 20

Scholarship Recognition DaySGA Game Day- Softball v

Tusculum (DH) @ 1 p.m. Monday, March 22

W’International Camp Out @ 7 a.m.SGA @ 7 p.m.

Lyceum: Tai Chi @ 7:30 p.m.Tuesday, March 23

Career Fair Preparation Event @ 8 a.m.Tennis v Belmont Abbey @ 3 p.m.

Baseball v West Virginia State @ 7 p.m.Wednesday, March 24

Lyceum: Great Decisions 2010: The Persian Gulf @ 12 p.m.

Career Fair @ 4 p.m.Baseball v West Virginia State @ 2 p.m.Softball v Lenoir-Rhyne (DH) @ 2 p.m.

Lacrosse v Queens @ 4 p.m.

Interested in being a voice for the

student body?SGA nominations begin

March 25For more information contact Megan Wood at

mlwood@wingate.edu

Events on campus prepare Wingate students for a professional future

The Office of Internships and Career Development Senior Etiquette Dinner was held March 9 for students looking to sharpen their dining skills to make a good first impression in front of future employers. The Office of Internships and Career Development will also host a Career Fair March 24 for students looking for jobs and internships.

Photo courtesy of Kristin Warton

SportsThursday, March 18, 2010 7

Fans have a lot to be excited about in NBA playoff push

Doug CoatsSports Columnist

The slogan does not lie: “Amazing Does Happen” in the NBA. The playoffs push is now in full force with the end of the regular season less than four weeks away. This makes it easier for even the casual basketball fan to become interested. Of course, fans in this state have had some pretty legitimate reasons for shying away from the NBA since the relocation of the Charlotte Hornets to New Orleans. It was a proud franchise, which, at one time, held the longest home sellout streak in the league, became less popular as the popular players left the team. Trading away draftee Kobe Bryant certainly did not help matters either. After all, star players are what make the NBA so unique in how it is promoted. Ever since David Stern became commissioner in 1984, the league has capitalized on the popularity of superstar players, making them huge draws both in the stands and in the marketplace. Following a lull in popularity in the late 1970s, the NBA flourished with high profile teams and players in the 80s and most of the 90s. Players already in the league when Stern took over included Hall of Famers Magic Johnson, Larry Bird and Isiah Thomas. Stern picked a good year to start his tenure, too. Michael Jordan, John Stockton, Charles Barkley and Hakeem Olajuwan were all part of that years’ draft class. The lure of exciting star

players has remained true in the last 20 years. When Jordan first retired in 1993, ratings of the NBA finals dropped from 17.9 to 12 when the Houston Rockets defeated the New York Knicks. When Jordan and the Bulls returned to the finals two years later, ratings jumped back to 16.7—the lowest of the Bulls final three championships. Even great dynasties are not immune to drops in ratings. The San Antonio Spurs have won four titles in the past 11 years, a feat only matched by the LA Lakers. Even though this college basketball crazed region values team-oriented play, most others do not. In fact, slow, fundamental basketball does not appeal to most NBA viewers. Each time Tim Duncan and the Spurs played in the finals the TV ratings are actually lower than the previous and following year. Stern was not the only league figure with good timing. Prior to the 2002-2003 season, NBC dropped NBA coverage and ABC took over. The 6.5 rating of the finals between the Spurs and New Jersey Nets produced the lowest finals rating ever. Nevertheless, the league as we know it today primarily riding on that same 2003 season. The reason? The draft that year is probably the second most productive ever, producing perennial all stars Lebron James, Carmelo Anthony, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh. Watching great players like these face off against each other week after week is some of the best entertainment on TV. It is hard to turn the channel from either part of TNT’s Thursday night double-header, as it produces riveting match ups every time.

Some skeptics argue that there is no defense in the NBA. This is partially true, but when you have the best athletes in the world aggressively driving to the basket, it is hard for even elite defenders to stop them. Also, now that a playoff spot is the goal for the majority of teams, including the Bobcats, stopping the ball has become a greater factor in these already exciting games. This is certainly one of the reasons ESPN now has two Sunday games in addition to the ABC afternoon coverage. Additionally, those who exclusively follow area college basketball have name players entering the league every year. Duke, long perceived as not producing NBA talent, now has a strong group of successful players. Carlos Boozer averages 19 points and 11 rebounds a game. Even Chris Duhon and J.J. Redick put up respectable numbers for the Knicks and Magic, respectively. Despite his embarrassing show in the dunk contest, the Bobcats’ Gerald Wallace is a player who the team and league can promote. If you go to a home game, it is easy to figure out why he is the fan favorite. Like other teams and their star players, without him, the team would be far less entertaining—and successful.

Intramurals offer Wingate students a chance to compete

Chelsea Cancelliere Staff Writer

Last week, Wingate’s intramural basketball season came to a close. Teams competed all week long leading up to the championship games played on Thursday night. On the men’s side, the faculty team, known as Triple Penetration, overcame Team Guaranteed in a very physical game. On the women’s side, Back That Pass Up won the championship title, defeating the V-Ballers. Both of the games had an outstanding turnout, making it a great conclusion to the intramural season. Quintin Robertson, who is in charge of Wingate’s Campus Recreation and also a member of the faculty basketball team, stated, “I was happy with the turn out. I had a lot of teams participate this season, and my team won the championship. It was a good season. I wish we could have played more games, but we have to move on to the next sport.” However, the season was not over for everyone. A men’s and women’s team were privileged enough to be taken to Middle Tennessee State University for the ACIS Regional Basketball Tournament, held in Murfreesboro, Tenn. Back That Pass Up represented the women, and Guaranteed represented the men’s side. Although the men’s team did not place, Back That Pass Up brought home the runner-up trophy. Campus Recreation works hard to provide opportunities for students to get involved with athletics. Therefore, even though the basketball season is

over, more sports are to come! Intramural soccer and volleyball are set to start up this week and next week. The seasons will be three weeks long with each being concluded with a championship game. Campus Recreation is looking to have 25 teams for each sport. Quintin Robertson emphasizes, “The more participation, the better the Campus Rec Department will be.” Students around campus are already getting excited about the upcoming intramural seasons. Junior Stefani Shuey stated, “I’m super excited for intramural volleyball to start. The women’s basketball team always gets a team together, and right now we are the women’s division defending champions. It is just a great way to build on our friendships and still have fun competing.” Athletes and non-athletes are welcome to compete in any intramural sport. Stop by the Campus Recreation office in the DPC, across from the mail room, and fill out a roster. Senior Jeremy Brown explains, “Intramurals is a way for those of us who may not want, or do not have the opportunity to participate in collegiate sports to feed our competitive nature. We can still compete at a high level against other high-level athletes without the pressure or time commitment of being on a collegiate team.” Now that basketball is over, bring on the soccer and volleyball!

Sports8 The Weekly Triangle

Kristina LawlessSports Columnist

Greatest collegiate basketball coach still subject of intense debate

The other day I overheard two college basketball fans debating over the greatest college basketball coach of all time. This being North Carolina, the two coaches that the debate centered on were Roy Williams, as the coach of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Mike Krzyzewski as the coach of Duke University. Each fan was using the amount of National Championship titles the two coaches had won as the bases for their argument. Being a college basketball fan myself I naturally had to interject my opinion, these two fans had to be set straight about who is the greatest college basketball coach of all time, John Wooden. Wooden’s name is synonymous with success, in particular, during his years as head coach of UCLA. He is the only college basketball coach to win 10 NCAA National Championship titles. The next closest coach to Wooden is Tennessee women’s basketball coach Pat Summitt. In addition, Wooden had four different teams go undefeated, with an entire class of players going undefeated during their college basketball careers. No other coach has more than one undefeated season. Seven of Wooden’s NCAA titles were won in consecutive years. In 1964, UCLA defeated Duke in the final game to give Wooden his first National Championship. Four years later UCLA defeated UNC

in the Championship game to become the only team to win consecutive National Championships twice. In his entire life, Wooden as a player or coach has only had one losing season, his first year coaching at Dayton High School. This fact might explain why he is in the National Basketball Hall of Fame as a player and as a coach. Lew Alcindor, who became Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Bill Walton played and won national titles with Coach Wooden. Wooden was such an impressive coach that he won five National Championships without either star player. Since 1977, the most prestigious post-season award has been the John R. Wooden Award. Sports Illustrated named Wooden the magazine’s Sportsman of the Year in 1972. A similar such award was given to Wooden by ESPN when they named him the Coach of the 20th Century. Former President George W. Bush bestowed the Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor, to John Wooden on July 23, 2003. John Wooden is also a man of great conviction. In 1946, Indiana State, coached by Wooden, won their conference and was invited to the NAIA tournament but he refused the invitation because the NAIA did not allow African Americans to play. The following year Indiana State won their conference again, and this time, accepted the invitation to play in the NAIA because the NAIA changed their policy and allowed African Americans to play. Clarence Walker became the first African American to play in the NAIA. Indiana State lost to Louisville in the Championship. It was the only Championship game that Wooden coached and he lost.

Wooden is also considered to be a great leader. When Bill Walton showed up for the first day of practice one season with a full beard, Coach Wooden informed him that he can either shave the beard or play basketball somewhere else. The next day Walton arrived at practice clean-shaven. As the author of several books on basketball and life, he is celebrated as a great motivator and throughout his life has never seen himself as greater than the things that his teams have accomplished. He has said, “The main ingredient of stardom is the rest of the team.” John Wooden can also be considered to be very successful in life. He was married for 53 years to Nell Wooden and remains faithful to her even after her death in 1985. On October 10th of this past year, Wooden turned 99. This is an excellent example of how Wooden is superior. The argument over who is the greatest college basketball coach will wage on with each person supporting their school’s coaches. But in my opinion, despite the fact that I am not a UCLA fan, John R. Wooden is the greatest college basketball coach and his accomplishments will never be equaled.

Merkerson’s journey inspiresContinued from pg. 1 that he was collecting stories for an upcoming book, Chicken Soup for the Soul: Athletes of Faith and was interested in hearing from Merkerson. “(Williams) didn’t say how he heard, but I’m assuming he somehow heard about the blog.” said Merkerson. “While having the opportunity to have something published is really cool, it’s an even better opportunity to have my story be able to inspire someone else.”

With his Wingate career concluded, Merkerson turns his focus toward a possible career in the National Football League. “I was invited to participate in Wake Forest’s pro day on March 26. The same agent that represents Ryan Clark and Tyler Thigpen contacted me. It’s amazing how many doors have been opened recently.” Off the field, Merkerson has been asked

to speak at various events, including the upcoming Day for Wingate.

At press time, Merkerson did not know whether or not his submission was selected for publishing. However, Merkerson has heard from Williams again. “He sent me an email within the last two weeks saying that he found my story to be encouraging. Just him reading it was good.”

Although there is a small financial reward for having a story published in the book, it is nowhere near the top of Merkerson’s priority list. “I want to share my faith with others,” said Merkerson. “I feel that good things happen to those who trust in the Lord. If I can inspire just one person to overcome adversity, live out a dream and trust in God, then I view this as a success.”

Tennis unable to overcome injuries, illness in loss against AndersonTim Elliott Staff Writer The Wingate University three-match win streak came to an end with the 7-2 loss to Anderson University. The Bulldogs overall record dropped to 6-4 while Anderson’s record improved to 7-5. The Anderson team was able to sweep all three doubles events on their way to victory.

Wingate sophomore Samantha Alschlager was able to win her fourth singles victory in a row. She defeated junior Julie Halbert by a score of 2-6, 7-6 (3), 10-8. The match went into a super tie-breaker instead of entering a third set.

Wingate sophomore Ewa Opala was also victorious in her singles match. She defeated senior Lisa Gorman 6-2, 6-1 in

only two sets. Opala’s singles record has now improved to 7-1 overall.

Athletic trainer D’andra Mills explained that the team is currently struggling with injuries. “The girls are definitely not 100 percent healthy,” says Mills. “We only had six healthy members for the match. Two of the girls also came down with a stomach bug.”

Coach Cabana was not available for comment after the match. His wife gave birth to their first child, a girl, earlier this week.

The Bulldogs’ will travel to Tennesse this weekend for their next SAC matches. They will play Tusculum on Friday and Carson-Newman on Saturday. The next home match is March

SportsThursday, March 18, 2010 9

Year: Senior

Sport: Softball

Hometown: San Jose, Calif.

Career Highlights: 2010 South Atlantic Conference Pre-Season All Conference First Team, 2009 SAC Batting Champion (.413 avg), 2009 All-SAC second team, 2009 Southeast Region first team, All-State at San Jose City College in 2008. Who I Would Have Dinner with:

Athlete SpotlightDebra Grijalva

Lacrosse experiences thrilling victory,heartbreaking lossJamie McKennaStaff Writer

The Wingate Men’s Lacrosse team had an emotional week by both winning and losing their closely fought games last Monday and Friday. After the win against Wheeling Jesuit (0-1) and the loss against Notre Dame de Namur (3-3), Wingate fall to 3-5 overall for the season.

On March 8, the Wingate Bulldogs hosted Wheeling Jesuit, and after a hard fought battle came out on top in overtime 9-8, with the game winner coming from senior Angus Derbyshire. The game remained close throughout regulation time and then one period of overtime. However, with 1:05 remaining in the first overtime period Derbyshire picked up a ground ball and scored his first and only goal of the game from the close left wing. This is Derbyshire’s second game winner as he recorded his other against Florida Southern on March 3rd. Aside from the game winner by Derbyshire, other goals came from sophomore David Lee (2), freshman Colin O’ Donoghue (2), freshman Taylor Womble (2), freshman Tom Padden, and junior Adam Jones.

On the bounce from such an enthralling victory, Wingate then hosted Notre dame de Namur (NDNU) on the Friday. However, despite being in the lead for large portions of the game the Bulldogs gave up six of the game’s final seven goals to lose the match 11-9. Wingate’s O’Donoghue led all scorers with four goals and one assist. With Wingate in command O’Donoghue tallied a man-up goal with 6:31 to play in the third quarter, giving the

Bulldogs an 8-5 advantage. Nevertheless, the Bulldogs would score only one more goal in the game as Notre Dame began their assault on the Wingate goal. NDNU junior midfield Greg Bearson led the visitors with three goals, and it was his unassisted goal that started the final push with 5:26 remaining in the third quarter to cut the Notre Dame deficit down to 8-6. The NDNU game-winner came in the fourth quarter on the 6:17 mark and then the cushion goal came with 2:06 remaining, inevitably giving NDNU the 11-9 victory.

After a week of mixed emotions Angus Derbyshire added, “We have done what we needed to do over the last several games, but now we need to take the next step and have the composure to finish games.” Clearly an indication that despite the team’s obvious talent, being able to close games is something that needs to be addressed by the Bulldogs. Furthermore, Travis Barrett commented on the whole week’s play by saying, “It was a week of ups and downs. The game against Wheeling Jesuit we played with real determination and passion, however against Notre Dame we didn’t play our best and costly turnovers effectively lost us the game.”

The Bulldogs will enjoy an eight day break after a heavy period of games. They return to action on the road to Pfeiffer on Saturday at 1pm and will return to Irwin Belk Stadium on March 24.

Allison SmithStaff Writer Debra Grijalva swings to a different beat than most softball players; from her swagger in the box by bobbing her head to her “California Love” walkout song, or her cornrow braids, or her smooth, effortless plays shooting the ball across the diamond to first. Yes, Grijalva swings to a different beat but she is athletic, quick, motivating and stands out among her competition.

Grijalva began playing baseball growing up in San Jose, California. She began playing due to the influence of her grandfather. Grijalva shared the field with boys all the way up until her sophomore year of high school when she began playing softball. She has always been athletic. Grijalva was named first team All Conference four years in a row in high school as well as sophomore of the year and she played guard on the basketball team all four years at Evergreen Valley High School.

After graduating high school, Grijalva attended San Jose City

College, where she immediately made an impact. She had a batting average of .472 and slugging percentage of .822. Grijalva transferred to Wingate in the fall of 2008. She said she chose Wingate because of “the great environment and the chance for a new experience.” She also made an immediate impact at Wingate. Grijalva came from San Jose playing third but made the adjustment to catcher. In her first season at Wingate, she led the team and SAC in batting average .422 and hit eight home runs. She ranked second in on-base percentage and third in RBI and slugging percentage with .711. This year Griljalva is again in a different position. She plays shortstop now for the Bulldogs and it is easy to see she is the leader on the field with her positive talk and her ability to fire up her team. She is again up for a successful year at the plate with a batting average already of .400 and three home runs.

While Grijalva is very proud of the 2009 team, as she has high expectations for this season. “I feel we have done great so far but there is more to come and work for”. However,

she feels that this team has the chance to surpass the successes of last season, especially since the addition of Assistant Coaches Emily Price and Natalie Layden. “Our coaches have a great knowledge of the sport and I feel their recruiting was big for us both on and off the field.” However, she feels that it will not come easy since conference play is so tough. “Every team in our conference is tough, but Carson-Newman is a big rival for us. Last year Carson-Newman beat us in the conference tournament and went to Super Regionals. They are a big game because we want revenge.” Grijalva hopes to end her senior season with a bang, “I want our team to win both regular season and conference tournament, as well as go farther into regionals than we did last year, but we are taking and winning one game at a time.”

Photo courtesy of Allison Smith

Sports10 The Weekly Triangle

1. The Wingate men’s and women’s swimming teams traveled to Canton, Ohio last week for the NCAA Division II National Championship meet. The Wingate men brought two national titles back to Union County on their way to a sixth place finish. Wingate senior Gus Chagas won his second national title in the 200 Freestyle with a time of 1:37.53. Chagas’ previous title came in 2007. Chagas and the rest of his 400 meter Freestyle buddies won the Bulldogs’ second national title of the meet on Saturday night with a time of 2:58.22. Other members of the team are Rory Julyan, Daniel DeFrancisco and Mason Norman. The Wingate women finished the meet in 23rd place. 2. It is not often that a 9-0 victory would earn a High Five, but this is an exception. The United States women’s under-17 soccer team defeated Haiti by this margain last week. Following the game, the Hatian goalkeeper fell to the ground in tears. Seeing this, the entire US team went over to her, helped her to her feet and exchanged a hug. With all that the Hatian team has gone through in the past three months, this gesture of support means more than any donation could. 3. Congratulations to sophomore Flavio Rothsam for winning South Atlantic Conference Player of the Week in men’s tennis for this past week. Rothsam won two matches on Monday, winning the #5 singles match and the #1 doubles match with partner and fellow Brazilian Bruno Prudence against No. 24 Anderson. The men’s and women’s tennis teams will travel to Tennessee for a pair of matches this weekend. 4. After a long season, the NCAA tournament is finally here, causing casual basketball fans like myself to tune in. Not since the Olympics has there been something on television that is worth watching every night. Good luck to all teams. 5. Although it was tough to make up for the lost hour of sleep on Sunday, it’s hard not to like Daylight Savings Time. I’d gladly give up an hour of sleep for an extra hour to spend outside enjoying the recent warm weather. 1. Baseball has been rocked in the past few years with a steroid scandal. To my knowledge, all previous players have tested positive for HGH or another “regular” steroid. Then we have

Steve Lebron. Lebron, a minor leaguer for the Cleveland Indians, tested postive last week for Boldenone metabolite. Boldenone metabolite is a horse steroid that is also used by bodybuilders. Although Lebron has been suspended for 50 games and has had his contract voided, I would love to know why he decided to use a ‘roid that is better suited for Smarty Jones than a baseball player.

2. After a long hiatus, Tiger Woods announced Tuesday that he would be returning to golf at The Masters in mid-April. What I do not understand is why this is such a surprise. Woods has long been one of the players to beat in Augusta and out of all the possible tournaments he could play in, this has to be one of the most friendly. Unfortunatly with the media’s facination with Woods, I think The Masters will end up being more of a circus and less of a golf tournament. 3. Following the release of the NCAA bracket on Sunday evening, the debate as to which team has the easiest route to the NCAA Final Four began. I have to believe that CBS wants to see coach Mike Krzyzewski and his Duke Blue Devils play on semifinal Saturday based on the teams that they could face in the early stages of the bracket. The Blue Devils will face Arkansas- Pine Bluff and will not play a team that poses a serious threat until the Elite Eight, where they may face Villanova. If Duke does not make it to the Final Four, it is because they beat themselves and not because someone else beat them. 4. Speaking of teams getting an easy ride, it amazes me that Carolina not only got into the NIT, but also got a home game. I realize that the Carolina name attracts viewers, but the NIT selection commitee needs to pick the most qualified teams, not the teams that have the best brand name but have a .500 record. 5. Alexander Ovechkin may be one of the top players in the National Hockey League, but his actions in Sunday’s game against the Chicago Blackhawks were more like what one would find in a weeknight beer league. Ovechkin checked Blackhawk defenseman Bryan Campbell dangerously into the boards when Campbell had no idea he was coming. Ovechkin needs to be suspended for more than two games, but due to his superstar status, its a surprise that he was even suspended at all.

Steven Grandy

High Five

LOW FIVE

Sports Stumper Has a #16 seed ever defeated a #1 seed in either the

men’s or women’s NCAA basketball championships?

Answer to last week’s question: UConn’s women’s basketball

team has won 72 games in a row.

Softball earns sweep of regional rival UNC Pembroke on March 16

Triangle News Services

The Wingate University softball team swept a key NCAA Division II Southeast Region doubleheader over host UNC Pembroke. The Bulldogs won the first game 1-0 and the second game 6-3. Wingate is the number 14 team in the NFCA/NCAA Division II top 25 poll. The Bulldogs are 21-3 overall, while the Braves are 19-12 overall. Wingate hosts Georgia College and State University Friday at 2:30 p.m. “We played a quality opponent in Pembroke today,” Wingate Head Coach Michelle Caddigan says. “These (wins) are two great region wins. Brittany (Blankenship) and Allison (Smith) combined for two good pitching performances that we really did need. This is a great way to go into the weekend.” Game #1 #14 Wingate 1, UNC Pembroke 0 For the second time this season, junior outfielder Emily Chavis provided all the offense with a solo home run while classmate Brittany Blankenship retired the final 16 UNC Pembroke batters for the win. Chavis hit a towering shot down the left field line with two outs in the fourth. It was her sixth of the season and 14th of her Bulldog career. Senior infielder Leyila Myers sophomore outfielder Jessica Bowen and junior second baseman Gina Ager each had a hit for the visiting Bulldogs. Blankenship twirled her fourth shutout of the season, improving to 11-2 overall for the 2010 campaign. The Braves had a runner in scoring position in each of the first two innings, but managed only one hit the rest of

the game. Blankenship struck out five batters. Game #2 #14 Wingate 6, UNC Pembroke 3 The Bulldogs went in order in the first, but turned things around in the second with three runs to take the early lead. With two on and two out, sophomore outfielder Joya Wortham delivered a RBI single up the middle to score Chavis. An errant throw back into the infield allowed Myers to score as the ball found the Brave dugout. On the next pitch, Ager ripped the Jamie Burwell offering back up the middle to score Wortham and give Wingate a 3-0 lead. After each team plated a run, the Braves pulled within two after four complete innings. UNC Pembroke posted consecutive singles to start the inning against Wingate junior pitcher Allison Smith. Burwell helped her own cause with a bloop single over third base to make the score 4-2. After Pembroke cut Wingate’s lead to one after six, Myers gave the ‘Dogs much- needed insurance. The former Wheeler High standout hit a two-run shot over the right field wall to give the Bulldogs a 6-3 lead. The Braves had the tying run at the plate in the bottom of the seventh, but failed to tie the game. Smith earned the complete game victory, improving her season record to 10-1 overall. Smith allowed eight hits, three runs (two earned) and no walks.

FeaturesThursday, March 18, 2010 11

Writers needed. All poets are encouraged to submit poetry to The Poet’s Corner. Professors,

please encourage your students to submit. This is your chance to

share your voice.

Submit poetry to wunewspaper@yahoo.com

The Poet’s CornerThe Marriage

by Jennifer La Vine

I only run fasterKnowing that I can’t escape you.

Your hold on my heartStrengthens with each step.

These bruises are all too familiarAnd the pain is nothing new,But I’m so scared to breathe

Afraid of what you’ll do.

I seem to be running in circlesAlways returning back to you.Why can’t I escape this hell?

Then I look down at the ringAnd remember the promises made

And I hope that one day you’ll change…

Faculty Focus: Dean Joseph Graham

Jill Corbo Editor-in- Chief

Not too far from his home-town of Lincolnton, NC, Joseph Graham dreamed of becoming a professional baseball player when he was growing up. Plans changed, however. Graham first came to teach at Wingate University in 1982 and he is currently a professor of ac-counting and the dean of the school of business. Dean Graham at-tended Belmont Ab-bey College where he earned his undergradu-ate degree. After Bel-mont Abbey College, he attended Winthrop University where he earned his master’s of business administration (MBA). Dean Graham has also been a certified public accountant since 1972. Being the dean of the school of busi-ness comes with many responsibilities. The position entails work-ing with the faculty and figuring out how to make their jobs easier to perform. “I go to many more meet-ings than I would prefer, but they are necessary as we are try to plan new programs, enhance existing ones, and just generally make Wingate and the School of Business a bet-ter place,” said Dean Graham. He also spends time working with the director of the MBA program at the Metro Campus. “I also think it’s important that I continue to teach so that I never forget what it’s like in the classroom,” added Dean Graham. Among all of the re-sponsibilities that come with

being the dean of the school of business, Dean Graham likes, “working with the faculty and students in the Business School to try to continue to enhance our programs so that our stu-dents can leave here prepared for what’s next in their lives.” Dean Graham has a great vision for Wingate’s School of Business in the near future. The new master of accounting degree that is beginning in the

fall will be taught on Wingate’s main campus. There is also hope to add another gradu-ate program in the next few years. “We are also looking at some other things, such as an entrepreneurship program which would initially begin as a minor,” said Dean Graham. In a few years, the school of busi-ness will be relocating to the current school of pharmacy af-

ter the pharmacy program will relocate to the under construc-tion Levine College of Health Sciences. “This will give us some more space to add some enhancements like a technology lab. I am optimistic about our future,” adds Dean Graham. Dean Graham, along with his wife, was one of the fac-ulty members who went on a W’International trip to Rome in December of 2008. One of

his favorite parts about the trip was the oppor-tunity to see a country with a long, interesting history. Dean Graham found Rome to be quite an experience, but also enjoyed the group’s days spent visiting Orvi-eto, Assisi, and Arrezo, towns north of Rome. “My wife and I enjoyed very much the time spent with the students and Dr. Blizzard and his wife Lucy. The students were absolutely delight-ful to be around,” he said. In his free time, Dean Graham likes to spend

time with his family; his wife, their four sons and their four grandchildren. He also enjoys photography and plans on spending more time on it in retirement. Golf too, but Dean Gra-ham claims that

he “doesn’t play very often, or very well.”

Favorite Movies:Easy Rider, Pulp Fiction, and No Country for Old Men.

Ideal Vacation Destination:As far as a place that I can get to on a regular basis, I

would say the North Carolina mountains in the summer. But, after visiting Italy recently, I will say that is one

place I want to see again.

Dean Graham is optimistic about School of Business’ future

Photo courtesy of Joseph Graham

Features12 The Weekly Triangle

Following the legacy left by Charles A. CannonRhonda Naylor

Staff Writer

How do you measure the life of a man? Is it by what he does in his lifetime or by what he leaves behind? Charles Albert Cannon was an astute businessman in his lifetime, but his humanitarian efforts are still touching the lives of many. Today, his legacy lives on!

Charles A. Cannon is remembered as a genius in the business world, earning many accolades in his career, including honorary doctorates from Presbyterian College, NC State, and Duke University. For some men that would have been enough, but there was even more the world would remember about this man. His humanitarian efforts brought him great joy. He never stopped giving back to the community he loved, keeping his eyes open to the needs for medical, educational, and community programs.

In 1955, former Wingate College presidents C.C. Burris and Budd E. Smith encouraged Charles A. Cannon to contribute to the college. Over the years this amounted to millions of dollars for Wingate. His presence and name can be found all over campus. Since 1950, nearly every new building and renovated building stands in testimony to his generosity.

The Cannon legacy lives on at Wingate today. Cannon’s wish for Wingate was to provide a place for middle class citizens and the children of his employees to receive higher educations. Recently, his wish for its success came full circle; when for the first time, his great-great-grandchildren became students here!

Mary Katherine and Charles West were brought up to appreciate their family name, but to earn a reputation for themselves.

Mary Katherine states, “You should work for what you have but keep your heart open to others.”

The Cannon Family today remains strong in their convictions and humanitarian efforts. For instance, every Christmas, the adults in the Cannon family donate to a certain cause in lieu of purchasing presents for each other.

“When Katrina hit, we donated to a school in Louisiana.” Mary Katherine explains. “This past year, we donated to military wives who had lost their husbands and wanted to provide Christmas for their children.”

The family remains close, getting together at least once or twice a month for Sunday dinners. This usually includes 20 to 30 relatives. They also have family reunions every four years. They were taught to uphold good values and their family history.

Mary Katherine chose Wingate because it was close to her home of Concord. She also liked the campus and found the professors here to be “very helpful.” Both Mary Katherine and Charles hope to run their own businesses one day. She especially would like a daycare,

as she loves children.

When asked what she thought her great-great-grandfather would say about her being a

student here, she replied, “I think he would be proud of both of us.”

Charles A. Cannon was born November 29, 1892 in Concord, N.C., the youngest of ten children. He attended Concord

city schools, Fishburne Military Academy and Davidson College. He left Davidson to begin working in the textile industry with his father in

1911. In 1912, he married Ruth Louise Coltrane. The couple later had four children, Charles A. Cannon Jr., Miriam Cannon Hayes, William Coltrane Cannon, and Mary Ruth Cannon Spencer.

At just 19 years old, Charles A. Cannon became the manager of Barringer Manufacturing Company in Rockwell, NC. In 1913, he was made secretary

and treasurer of Cannon Manufacturing Company in Kannapolis and by 1916, elected as vice president. He succeeded to the presidency in 1921 at just 30 years old.

Cannon consolidated the company’s multiple manufacturing plants into a single corporation entity – The Cannon Mills Company. The company made history by launching the first large scale consumer advertising

sales campaign and introduced color and other promotional innovations into the textile industry. Cannon Mills became a huge success.

Charles A. Cannon retired as president of the Cannon Mills Company in 1962, but continued on as chairman. He spent part of each work day in his office up to, and including the day before he died, April 2, 1971.

Among his favorite places

was Blowing Rock, NC. Love for the mountains ran in the family. His daughter, Miriam donated her mountain home to Appalachian University.

His personal papers, The Cannon Archives, are in the restored and renovated Efird Building at Wingate University. They are maintained by Debra H. Hargett. MLIS (Reference/Periodicals and Special Collections Librarian) and Richard S. Pipes. MLIS (Collection/Development Librarian) as an extension of the Ethel K. Smith Library. For information regarding Archives

policies and procedures, please visit http://library.wingate.edu/policy/appendixb.h.

Special thanks to Debra Hargett.

Accomplishments of

Charles A. Cannon

1917 –Convinced his father to employ a nurse for employee’s medical needs

Underwrote a research program at UNC to develop a vaccine for Tuberculosis. 1935 – Founded Cabarrus Memorial Hospital in Concord. (This was dear to his heart)

1943- Established ‘The Cannon Foundation’, to provide grants to non-profit organizations involving health, education, or community service.

1955 - Provided 1000 doses of Salk vaccine to Cabarrus county citizens, making it the most protected place in the United States and serving as a prototype for mass inoculation systems everywhere. The next year he gave 65, 000 doses of Asian flu vaccine and 40,000 of tetanus toxoid.

1961 - Opened the Charles A. Cannon Jr. Memorial Hospital named for his son lost in WW2. This hospital serves residents of a tri-state rugged area.

Photo courtesy of Mary Katherine West

Charles A. Cannon’s great-great grandchildren, sophomore, Mary Kather-ine West, and her brother Charles.

FeaturesThursday, March 18, 2010 13

Student SpotlightTracy Wilkinson

What is your favorite class? Any in the communication department.

What is your favorite sport? Volleyball

What is your favorite book? The Last Song -Nicholas Sparks

Who is your role model? My mom

What game show would you most like to be on? The Singing Bee

Morgan Bourne

Staff Writer

Not only is senior Tracy Wilkinson well on her way to becoming a radio or television personality, she is very involved with various activities on campus. Tracy is a communication major and is enthusiastic about her classes. In fact, she says that any course in the communications department she would call her most enjoyable class. “The professors at Wingate are amazing and I owe them a huge thank you for helping me throughout the years. They are one of the reasons I fell in love with this place and will miss it so much,” says Wilkinson. In addition to the courses here on campus preparing her for the working world, Wilkinson has some on-the-job experience, too. Last summer she interned at radio station 96.9 the Kat in Charlotte. The

internship turned into a part-time job, which she will take on right after graduation and hopes will lead to a full time job by mid summer. “I love my job. I get the chance to work with many talented people and learn an area of radio that I didn’t even know existed. Promotions is a huge part of all events and I am enjoying the opportunity to learn about it,” said Wilkinson Outside of her major, Wilkinson has gotten involved with several organizations on campus. She was a founder of Lambda Pi Eta, a national communication association. “Lambda Pi Etais a way for communicatiom majors to come together and share different concerns and thoughts. It’s nice to talk among students who have the same interest as you,” commeneted Wilkinson of her involvement in the Communications fraternity. Wilkinson played sports as well, representing the Wingate Bulldogs on the volleyball court from 2007 to 2009. She even

served a year as vice president of the Student Athletic Advisory Committee. Juggling that many extracurricular activities has not hindered Tracy’s grade-point average at all. She has made the Dean’s List, President’s List and served as a tutor in the Academic Resource Center. Wilkinson has also been involved with several volunteer organizations such as the YMCA and the Women’s Battered Shelter. Helping the community is very important to life here at Wingate and Tracy has certainly embodied this value. Tracy Wilkinson is an overall well-rounded and educated student. She has the knowledge and experience to enter the working world and will get to do so this May when she joins her peers in flipping that tassel.

Wilkinson’s internship provides job after Wingate

Green Zone falls shortChris Siers

Staff Writer

The film Green Zone, which stars Matt Damon, showcases the war in Iraq and attempts to portray why the war was actually started. The story follows Damon, who plays Chief Miller, the leader of a squad searching for Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) in Iraq. After faulty intelligence leads to several searches that come up empty, Miller begins to question the origins of the intelligence, and just how and why this was allowed to be passed onto his squad.

The film showcases a great deal of war, although it seemed at times built up for Hollywood stunts. While everyone knows that the war in Iraq was caused due to faulty intelligence, this film attempts to act on that and tries to tie a governmental cover-up to the Bush Administration, which is founded on no factual evidence.

The acting provided by the cast, Damon included, is solid, as well as the action and cinematography. The film reunites Damon and Director, Paul Greengrass, who worked

together on both The Bourne Supremacy and The Bourne Ultimatum. While fans of those movies entertain a realistic, yet fictional setting, this film shows a very real and hot-button issue in society today, and does not portray our soldiers as they should be. As solid as the action is, audiences do not help but feel manipulated by the political motives by the creation and scriptwriting of this movie, as Greengrass had a clear agenda in the script writing process.

Overall, the film feels like a missed opportunity of a good war movie, and tries to be too much of a political message. Movies about Middle Eastern conflicts, like Black Hawk Down, show true heroism showcased by U.S. Troops in action, rather than being part of a cover-up of a politically motivated message. The film’s reception at the box office is a clear indicator that the message in the film is old and worn out.

All in all, if audiences are seeking a fun movie experience, avoid Green Zone, and go watch something with a bit more substance rather than political propaganda.

Score: 4/10

Class of 2010Commencement Countdown:

50 daysSenior Pictures - April 14 - 9 a.m.-5 p.m. -DPC

April 22 – Baccalaureate – 9 a.m. – McGee Theatre

May 7 - Graduation Practice

May 8 – Commencement

Photo courtesy of Tracy Wilkinson

Features14 The Weekly Triangle

SUDOKU

Sarah’s Scripture Space

Sarah Briggs Columnist

I attended the Arbor Fellowship this past Sunday where we were able to talk about blessings, specifically focusing this week on letting people know we see “good” in them. A lot of the time it is difficult to se good in someone and it is even harder to verbally express those thoughts to the person. Sometimes it might even be difficult to narrow down one positive thing about someone. I think it is so cool to know that we are created to be good because we are created in God’s image. From the first book of the Bible we learn that man was formed in the very likeness of God (Gen 1: 26). What is even cooler to think about is that when we are feeling at our lowest or at our worst, God only loves us all the more. All our faults and failures are only stumbling blocks in the eyes of God, even though we might explode over the most insignificant things. It

doesn’t matter because we are unconditionally loved by a God who designed us in His own image. David wrote in Psalm 8, “What is man that you are mindful of him, the son of man that you care for him?” Even David, one of the greatest kings and followers of God felt

minuscule during his time on earth. David continues in his Psalm to say “You made him a little lower than the heavenly beings and crowned him with glory and honor.” Our lives may seem trivial in the grand scheme of things, but God has

great and wonderful plans for us. We are crowned with glory and honor because God designed us in his image. His grace flows in our veins. His mercy pours from our lips and his love makes our hearts beat. We are created to be good to others the way God is good to us. Once we begin to see the good in others, we will begin to see the good that is within ourselves; a good that is God-like.

We are crowned with

glory and honor because God designed

us in his image.

Interested in writing for Features?

Contact Cameron Quick at chquick@wingate.edu or

Kevin Goode at k.t.goode@wingate.edu

Spring Word SearchGod allows us to see the beauty in all things

Daffodil Flower

Gardening Puddle

Rainbow Egg

Bloom

Easter Green

Sun Rain Boots

Shower Bunny Tulip

Kite Blossom

Warm Rain Color Candy

NewsThursday, March 18, 2010 15

Marshville town meeting celebratescitizen, discusses numerous topicsMelissa Mitchell Staff Writer The Marshville Town Council meeting on Mar. 8 was full of announcements about new and exciting things for the town of Marshville.

The meeting began with a celebration of a Marshville citizen who is the oldest person in Union County. Elsie Chambers was born on April 28, 1905. She will be turning 105 years old next month. Chambers was awarded with a plaque and a key to the town. She expressed her gratitude by saying, “You gave me the key, but you wouldn’t let me open the door!”

John Edmonson, editor of Marshville’s local weekly newspaper, The Home News, asked the Town Council for permission to use Town Hall for a scheduled event. Phillip Gregory will be coming to speak on Tues. at 6:30 p.m. This event is sponsored by the Marshville Chamber of Commerce.

The issue of how all of Union County should be governed was brought up by John Pigg. Pigg is on a county committee that has been meeting to discuss representation in Union County. He proposed that there be five electoral district representatives and two at-large electoral representatives because of the how county population is dispersed. It was voted that there are to be five at-large representatives and two electoral district representatives.

An issue with the water lines provided to the new First Baptist Church of Marshville was brought up as well. The

church wanted their options for hooking their water lines to the Marshville lines in writing. This would allow for the church to use Marshville water as well as Union County water in emergency situations. The Town Council approved this letter.

Marshville has a new town administrator. Radford Thomas, who is described as a good and enthusiastic person. The Town Council is very excited to have Thomas in this position. He will begin his term on Tuesday.

The Marshville police are working hard to fix the multiple street lights that are burnt out. Marshville also received a grant to build a sidewalk on Emmett Street. As soon as the plans get approved, construction on the walkway will begin.

The principal of New Salem Elementary requested that the Town Council put a link to the school Web site on the Marshville Web site. The elementary school is expecting visitors from out of the country soon. The principal wants parents to have easier access to the Web site.

The Marshville Town Council meeting adjourned at 8 p.m.

“You gave me the key, but you wouldn’t let me open the door!”

-Elsie Chambers

Rhonda NaylorStaff Writer

Students will get the chance to bring pictures to life when they travel to New Zealand this coming May. All semester they have participated in a New Zea-land literature course with Dr. Pam Thomas. In New Zea-land they will ac-tually be able to talk to the Maori people, natives of the island. Thomas said, “This is a chance for students to travel as far from most of their homes as it is possible to go and broaden their knowledge of the larger world.” 13 students, as well as Thomas and her daughter, will embark on this journey to the world where “Lord of the Rings” was filmed. The cost for students was approximately $3450+ but included their airfare. “I took my first international

trip in January and now I can’t wait to travel more,” said stu-dent Megan Wood. “New Zea-land looks beautiful and I have become so fascinated about their lifestyle and history. I’m beyond excited to travel to such an amazing country!” The trip will take the stu-

dents to many different loca-tions including the major cities of Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. On the North Island, they will also visit Ro-turua, a geothermal landscape and home of the oldest known Maori village. In the South Island, they

will visit Kaikoura and go on a whale watching expedition. Also on the South Island, they will see Mt. Cook and boat beside a glacier, as well as Queenstown, entry to the magnificent Milford Sound and the rest of Fiord land. Thomas first became

interested in New Zealand after seeing the beautiful land-scapes in “Lord of the Rings” and watching a documentary highlighting the locations they will actually visit. Thomas said, “I hope the students will be able to take

home a respect for New Zealand

and an appreciation of both in-digenous and European popu-lations in the islands, as well as a love of seeing new places and meeting new people.” The group will depart on May 11 and return May 27, giv-ing them 15 days and 14 nights to enjoy the country.

For some students, New Zealand trip awaits end of literature class

Do you enjoy knowing what’s going on around Wingate? Do you enjoy meeting and talking

with new people? Have you considered joining the Weekly Triangle staff, either as an editor or

staff writer? We’d love to have you on board!

E-mail Jill Corbo at jrcorbo@wingate.edu for more information.

Dr. Pam Thomas’ New Zealand literature class will take a trip in May to the places they’re reading about.

FREE MOVIE PASSESBounty Hunter

March 25 Midnight Showings: Hot Tub Time Machine

How to Train Your Dragon

16 The Weekly Triangle

Interested in writing for

News? Contact Sam Bare at sebare@wingate.edu

or Jill Corbo at jrcorbo@wingate.edu

News

Passes are for Wingate students and issued on a first come, first serve basis. For movie times to go www.regmovies.com.

Also at the midnight showings on March 25: - A raffle for midnight ticket holders. Patrons can enter to win a cinema prize package.

- 80’s themed trivia questions and prize giveaway. - 80’s themed Dance Dance Revolution competiton.

- Pin the Tail on the Dragon contest.- Dart-Board Dragon Slayer game

Come to Burris 116 on Tuesday, March 23 between 7 P.M. and 8 P.M. for tickets.

Sabra Hart Staff Writer

Rising juniors will soon be able to enjoy the experience of a lifetime; an experience that Wingate has been reveling in for years. Come Monday, students will be able to begin in the sign-up process for W’International. Like each year in the past, students will have to make the difficult decision between six destination possibilities. In the fall, Dr. Kara Presnell, assistant professor of communications –public relations, will be leading a class on Introduction to Travel Writing and going to Denmark. Dr. Dennis Harlow, assistant professor of management, will be teaching From Pyramids to Modern

Nation- A Perspective Course on Egypt. These trips will tentatively leave on Dec. 28, 2010 return on Jan. 6, 2011. There will be four classes available in the spring. Dr. John Patton, dean of the School of Communication, will be leading Communication and Culture in the Caribbean and will be visiting the islands of Barbados and Trinidad. Dr. Wayne Tarrant, assistant professor of mathematics, will be exploring Mathematics and Art in France. For the more adventurous students, Dr. Abigail Dondanville, assistant professor of sport sciences, will be teaching the art of Frilusliv, which means “Open Air Life” through A Nature-Sport Lifestyle and Identity class and is traveling to Norway. As always, Wingate will host one free trip. Students

should generally expect to pay for food, their passport and souvenirs. Dr. Heather McDivitt, assistant professor of religion, is teaching a class called Protestant Reformation

and the Spirit of Neutrality: Switzerland. The spring trips will tentatively run May 16-25, 2011. All of the trips except Switzerland cost $850. An international health insurance fee of $23 will be added to

student accounts as well. The camp out begins on Monday at 7 a.m. Rising juniors will receive the secret location to camp out by e-mail. Students will line up to have their name on the waiting list, and then camp out for the day and night. Students will be excused from the line for classes and meetings, but only for up to three hours at a time. Random roll calls will take place during the day and any student who has not properly signed out and is missing will lose his or her place in line. Students who know exactly which trip they want should try to get out of work for the duration of the camp out; a position in line is not allowed to be saved. While camping out is completely optional and not necessary to sign up for the trips, students who camp out

generally are more likely to get the trip they want. Students who do not camp out will have an opportunity to sign up the following day. Each W’International course counts as two credit hours; rising juniors should keep their course load in mind during the semester of their W’International trip. For more information visit www.wingate.edu/acad/international. Students can also contact the individual professors about their course or Jennifer Armentrout, director of international studies.

W’International camp out to begin Monday

Fall 2010 Denmark & Egypt

Spring 2011 Caribbean

France Norway

Switzerland