Volume 97, Issue 18 by The Collegian

28 February 2013 Volume 97 Issue 18

THE HOPE FOR MENTAL HEALTH 15

CALENDAR

SNAPSHOTS

CULTURE

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Emily Muthersbaugh HEAD LAYOUT EDITOR Ricky Barbosa

INTRODUCTION the 2013–2014 school year. (You can read more about the four individuals elected on page 14.) These individuals gave impassioned speeches, offering solutions to current concerns or frustrations with ASWWU and providing hope for a better student body.

HEAD COPY EDITOR Cedric Thiel HEAD PHOTO EDITOR Josh McKinney

Emily Muthersbaugh

CONTENT DIRECTOR Philip Duclos

NEWS EDITOR Jaclyn Archer

Editor-in-Chief

RELIGION EDITORS Rob Folkenberg Nick Ham COLUMNIST Rebecca Brothers CREATIVE WRITING EDITOR Kayla Albrecht OPINION EDITORS Elliott Berger Grant Gustavsen FEATURE EDITORS Braden Anderson Elizabeth Jones James Mayne Christian Robins CULTURE EDITOR Grant Perdew DIVERSIONS EDITOR Eric Weber TRAVEL EDITOR Megan Cleveland HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITOR Karl Wallenkampf SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY EDITOR Spencer Cutting

There is pride in being the first person to come up with an idea. There is even more pride in developing an idea independently. We have developed copyright systems to protect original ideas. If one’s genius results in success, he or she is applauded for ingenuity. Awards such as the Nobel Prizes are designed to reward thinkers and developers of new ideas. Today, we are facing challenges regarding the economy, energy scarcity, violence, immigration, and debt, to name a few. Many politicians, writers, philosophers, and indeed even surgeons, have claimed solutions to the

problems America faces. It has been popular to claim the promise and opportunity America provides, and Americans are generally ingenious when facing difficult problems. But how much does America invest in understanding the many possible solutions proposed by other countries to solve our problems? Even if America is believed by some to be the best country in the world, could it not be made even stronger by learning from others’ strengths and absorbing the tried ideas of others?

When stepping into important positions of leadership, one brings countless ideas to restructure, revitalize, and refocus. But it is always important to consider the perspectives of those who have demonstrated strength to develop the strongest administration and association possible. Responsible leadership is balancing tradition and ingenuity to synthesize strength and sustainability.

On Tuesday, the student body, faculty, and staff elected the new ASWWU cabinet for

FOOD EDITOR Amy Alderman SPORTS EDITORS Trevor Boyson Tye Forshee THE HEEL EDITOR Julian Weller STAFF WRITERS Amy Alderman Casey Bartlett Hilary Nieland Annie Palumbo Daniel Peverini LAYOUT DESIGNERS Allison Berger Alix Harris Greg Khng Cory Sutton COPY EDITORS Amy Alderman Rebecca Brothers Carly Leggitt Ryan Robinson DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Alex Wickward OFFICE MANAGER Heather Eva SPONSOR Don Hepker EDITORIAL BOARD Braden Anderson Jaclyn Archer Elliott Berger Philip Duclos Rob Folkenberg Grant Gustavsen Elizabeth Jones James Mayne Emily Muthersbaugh Christian Robins Julian Weller AD SALES MANAGER Brenda Negoescu aswwu.ads@wallawalla.edu

Photo by Ivan Cruz

Context

3–7

News ASWWU/Admin Week in Review Week in Forecast

Photo by Greg Khng

Photo by Ivan Cruz

Perspective Religion Column Creative Writing SM/ACA Opinion Snapshots

8–13

Feature 14–17 The Hope for Mental Health

Life 18–24

Culture Diversions Sports Foodie Science Human Sexuality

If you are interested in contributing to The Collegian, contact our page editors or the editor-in-chief at aswwu.collegian@wallawalla.edu. The Collegian is boosted by regularly incorporating a wide range of student perspectives. Cover Photo Credit: Greg Khng, Ricky Barbosa, Josh McKinney, Ivan Cruz The Collegian is the official publication of ASWWU. Its views and opinions are not necessarily the official stance of Walla Walla University or its administration, faculty, staff, or students. Questions, letters, and comments can be mailed to aswwu.collegian@wallawalla.edu or emily.muthersbaugh@wallawalla.edu. This issue was completed at 1:55 a.m. on 28 February 2013.

The Collegian | Volume 97, Issue 17 | 204 S. College Avenue | College Place, WA 99324 | collegian.wallawalla.edu

NEWS

A Call to the Artists Casey Bartlett Staff Writer

The General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists has put out a call to the young people with artistic capabilities in painting, photography, video, illustration, sculpture, and graphic design to use their creative skills in a contest. The church’s official website, adventist.org, is currently being redesigned. During this process, original artwork from young Adventist artists is being sought out to display on the new website. The artwork will illustrate one of the 28 fundamental beliefs,1 reinterpreted by the artists. Submissions in all of the categories mentioned above are welcome. The artists’ work will appear with credit on the new adventist.org and will not be shared with any other entity or organization, even within the church. The artist will also retain full rights for use of the work of art.

“The artists of Walla Walla University have a wonderful opportunity to make the doctrines of our church come to life.”

Any artist interested in participating in this project should email Dania Aragon at aragond@gc.adventist.org, giving contact information and the fundamental belief that he or she will illustrate. The final deadline

for submissions is April 15, 2013, and final selections will be announced June 10. To submit an entry, simply fill out a form giving contact information and information regarding the artwork, attach a photo of the work of art, and send it to Dania Aragon as mentioned above. The artists of Walla Walla University have a wonderful opportunity to make the doctrines of our church come to life in a visual display of truth that renders the word of the doctrine both more tangible and more memorable; it also helps with the renovation of the church’s website. Additionally, it provides an opportunity to help countless people better understand what Seventh-day Adventists believe. The contest provides a platform for the artwork to be seen by an enormous worldwide audience. It offers the chance to inspire and to move people through artistic expression using the talents God has given. For more information, contact Dania Aragon at aragond@gc.adventist.org.

1. adventist.org/beliefs/fundamental.

Social Work Department Takes on Olympia The Walla Walla University social work and sociology department released the press statement below addressing their recent trip to Olympia. Social work and sociology students participated in Lobby Day to observe the results of their in-class advocacy planning — research and bill examination aimed at the informed advocacy of a group or organization.

social-justice issues, and to understand more clearly the legislative process.

of licensure for the profession for purposes of job classification.”1

“Lobby Day turns textbook ideas into real-life skills that transform students into engaged and active citizens,” said Emily Tillotson, assistant professor of social work and sociology at WWU.

The students were able to meet with Rep. Maureen Walsh and Sen. Mike Hewitt and voiced their concerns on social-justice issues.

Walla Walla University social work and sociology students attended Lobby Day held by the National Association of Social Workers in Olympia, Wash., on Presidents Day, Feb. 18.

Walla Walla students were advocating for House Bill 1213 — Concerning Social Work Licensure and Senate Bill 5163 — Relating to Child Protective Service Workers. While the students were advocating in Olympia, House Bill 1213 was passed. This bill “requires licensed advanced social workers and licensed independent clinical social workers to both be considered the top tier

Lobby Day is an opportunity for social workers throughout the state to advocate, to speak with state legislators concerning

“The social work lobby day was an exciting experience. It was especially satisfying to see the advocacy planning we had done in class happen right in front of us,” said Audrianna Wahlen, junior social work major. For more information, contact the social work and sociology department, (509) 527-2273 or socialwork@wallawalla.edu. 1. “Bill Digest,” Washington State Legislature, leg.wa.gov.

CONTEXT BY THE

NUMBERS

2,700

POUNDS Weight of a bronze sculpture of Rosa Parks newly installed in Washington, D.C.

501 DAYS

Time a private Mars flyby mission will take, from 5 Jan. 2018 to 21 May 2019.

37 PERCENT

Amount Apple shares have fallen since 19 Sept.

40 HOURS

Amount of listening time Pandora will limit free users to per month on mobile devices.

CONTEXT SENATE UPDATE

ASWWU/ADMIN

University Master Planning Committee PURPOSE The Master Planning Committee oversees all major developments on campus such as the construction or remodeling of buildings, critical academic changes, budgets, capital campaigns, and long-term strategies.

New Business F.L. 24 — Bike Pump for the Tread Shed Purpose: Buy a bike pump for the Tread Shed. F.L. 25 — WWU–WWCC Auto Clubs Drag Race Day

CURRENT PROJECTS The committee is working on several current projects including the installation of a new gym floor and the library remodel. They are also reviewing the 2010–2013 strategic initiatives in preparation for the 2013–2016 strategic initiatives.

Purpose: Provide funding to the WWU Auto Club to participate in Drag Race Day. F.L. 26 — Google I/O Conference Purpose: Provide funding to students wanting to attend the Google I/O Conference. F.L. 27 — AIA Travel Expenses Purpose: Provide funding for AIA Travel Expenses. S.R. 2 — Increased Budget for Student Activities Department Purpose: Ask for an increased budget for the Student Activities Department.

LONG-TERM PROJECTS The committee is working with the city of College Place in planning for improvements to College Avenue, which is projected to begin in 2014. The committee is considering changes that could be made to the street, including crosswalks, crossing lights, and a median, as well as cosmetic improvements that would better delineate the campus from the rest of the city. The committee will also be involved in the formulation of a longer-term vision for the university to help guide strategic planning in the future.

Old Business

The committee has a unique cross section of campus demographics. It is one of the only places on campus where staff, faculty, administration, and students are all represented. The chair of the committee is required to be a faculty member of the rank Professor or Associate Professor, with at least one year of experience on the committee. The faculty elect one of two candidates selected by the president. Four other faculty members serve on the committee. Three represent the humanities, the sciences/mathematics/engineering, and professional/technical. The fourth is appointed by the Nominating Committee. The President appoints one member from the Office of Enrollment, University Advancement, or Student Finance, another from the physical plant entities, and another from Academic Support. Administrative members include the president, the vice presidents for Academic Administration and Financial Administration. The chair, in conjunction with ASWWU, selects one student to serve on the committee.

Linda Felipez | Kristy Guldhammer | James Klein Jerry Mason | Dorita Tessier | Glenn Carter

F.L. 22 — Memorial Fund F.L. 23— Girls’ Dorm Parking Lot Lights Key:

Greg Dodds

CHAIR

F.L. | Financial Legislation G.L. | Governance Legislation P.L. | Personnel Legislation

REPRESENTATION

FACULTY/STAFF COMMITTEE COMPOSITION

ADMINISTRATION John McVay | Bob Cushman | Steve Rose

STUDENT

Emily Oliver

NEWS

CONTEXT

Pilgrim’s Progress Revisited Caitlin Stoodley Contributing Writer

For the past six years, Kyle McCluskey, senior mass communications, has been developing Pilgrim, a live-action web series based on John Bunyan’s allegorical novel, Pilgrim’s Progress. “I liked the story when I was younger, and there was a lot of potential for character dynamics,” McCluskey said. Most of the work thus far has been preproduction and figuring out story, but filming began on his senior project this quarter. The 15-minute pilot episode is set to premiere March 14

on the Walla Walla University campus. McCluskey hopes the premiere will draw attention to the project and hopefully help get funding to film more episodes. Each season will consist of 12 episodes, most of which are planned out already.

writing, something in which he claims a lot of Christian media falls short. One thing McCluskey has done with his series is to give backstories to all the flat characters that interact with the main character. They are not just there to test the main character.

“When Pilgrim’s Progress was written, it was a tool for getting young people interested in getting into Christian things,” McCluskey said, “It didn’t hide the spirituality but captured the interest of youth at the time.”

“If you’re a traditional Pilgrim’s Progress fan, it may seem a bit strange, but you’ll recognize the allegory,” McCluskey said.

McCluskey wants to do the same with his web series. He says one of the goals of the project is to portray a Christian message while having a high quality of

Everything in the world is meant to strengthen the allegory, including colors, shapes, and even the armor, but it’s also entertaining. McCluskey has also done extensive CG work for the series. Most of the world

The Festival of One Acts This Saturday night, March 2, the annual Festival of One Acts opens. The festival will play in Village Hall on March 2, 3, 7, 9, and 10 at 8 p.m. Reservations can be made in advance at drama.wallawalla. edu. For this particular festival, wwudrama is working with the film/TV program in the department of communication and languages to present four live one acts and one short film. Each night, all five shows will play. At the end of each night, the audience members will vote for their favorite show. At the conclusion of the last show, the director whose show received the most votes will be awarded “audience favorite.” The night will begin with “The Spot,” written by Steven Dietz and directed by Joshua Haddock. Actors for this show will include Jennifer Landaverde, Andrew Woodruff, Jaclyn Archer, Elisa Westman, Elliot LaPlante, and Brooklynn Larson.

A new feature this year, and third in the lineup, will be the short film “Hat Trick,” written by Alisha Lang. The film features WWU alumnus Richard Wallace. Fourth will be “A Time of Green,” written by Anna Stillaman and directed by Randall Lutz. For Lutz, this comedy “is an opportunity to make the audience laugh and enjoy the productions we have worked hard to accomplish.” Actors for this show will include Madeleine Boyson, Kenton Gonzalez, and Rory Ross. Finally, the festival will close with “The Romancers,” written by Edmond Rostand and directed by Sabrina Tym.

McCluskey said it’s been a challenge filming due to everyone’s school schedules, but they’re set to wrap filming March 7, a week before the premiere. To view the trailer, visit the series’ Facebook page at facebook.com/pilgrimseries.

wwudrama David Crawford. “I am looking forward to the great stories each director will tell.” Crawford encourages students to attend performances of the festival “to show support for students on campus who are working really hard to bring something new and entertaining to their peers and community. … Also, it’s really fun.”

“The festival offers drama minors the opportunity to direct on the stage, many for the first time,” commented Director of

For further information, interested readers may contact David Crawford at (509) 527-2641 or wwudrama@wallawalla.

ASWWU POSITIONS

Staff Writer

“The communications department has been very open in letting us build a green screen and lending equipment,” said McCluskey.

Tym commented, “‘The Romancers’ is a delightful romantic comedy that never ceases to amuse me. It means a lot that my actors have joined me in making this show, an idea in my head, a reality.” Actors for this show will include Dustin Harter, Carlton Henkes, Faye Celestino, Colin Pummel, Brandon Pierce, and Charles Oroko.

OPEN

Daniel Peverini

Playing second will be “Trifles,” written by Susan Glaspell and directed by Estée Pummel. “Trifles” is a murder mystery that speaks to the triviality of many human experiences. Pummel commented, “Many of us get so caught up in our own importance and in the importance of doing our duties that we miss the little details around us, which are what really matter.” Actors for this show will include Jerad Booth, Sean Longfellow, Kyle McCluskey, Rachel Scribner, and Kayla Albrecht.

is already built in the computer; the filmmakers just need to film the scenes and drop the characters into those worlds. He’s also worked on tracking faces and adding 3D characters to that.

ASWWU TV Manager ASWWU Webmaster Collegian Opinion Editor Collegian News Editor Collegian Religion Editor

CONTEXT

WEEK IN

REVIEW Photo by Ivan Cruz

Photo by Joshua McKinney

Photo by chasingwinterfilm

33rd Annual Egg Drop

Chasing Winter Premier

ASWWU Battleground

21 February

22–23 February

The Associated Students of Mechanical Engineering held the annual Egg Drop in front of Kretschmar Hall as participants tossed their contraption off the roof in attempt to hit a frying pan 30 feet below.

ASWWU hosted this rock-climbing film in the FAC auditorium. Attendees brought a $2-or-more donation to benefit the Mission Mozambique wellbuilding project.

Speaker Sheldon Parris brought a weekend of spiritual emphasis entitled “Love Defined” to the WWU campus.

Photo by Erik Edstrom

Photo by Grayson Andregg

Fast Film Fest Screening

ASWWU Elections CommUnity

25 February

26 February

Participants gathered in groups of three to five people and had 24 hours to write, shoot, and edit a three-minute film. Winners received prizes for their quick, speedy, and efficient work.

This special CommUnity was held in the WEC as students had the opportunity to elect the ASWWU executive cabinet for the 2013–2014 academic year.

CONTEXT

WEEK IN

FORECAST Photo by Blackgoldmovie.com

Thursday |

28 FEB 52° 43°

Black Gold Film Screening 7 p.m. ADM 117

Photo by Ivan Cruz

Friday |

1 MAR 66° 41°

Vespers: Ricki Schwartz 8 p.m. University Church

Photo by Gungormusic.com and Greg Khng

Saturday |

2 MAR 63° 45°

Gungor Concert 7:30 p.m. WEC

The Festival of One Acts 8 p.m. Village Hall

Photo by Joshua Nathanson

Photo by Sgt. Kenneth Toole

Sunday | 3 MAR

Monday |

National Anthem Day

Hug a GI Day

50° 36°

The Festival of One Acts 8 p.m. Village Hall

4 MAR 55° 37°

Photo by Ivan Cruz

Tuesday |

5 MAR 63° 36°

CommUnity

11 a.m. University Church

Wind Symphony Concert 7:30 p.m. University Church

Photo by WWU Career Center

Wednesday |

6 MAR 61° 36°

Health Professional Panel 6 p.m. Alaska Room

PERSPECTIVE

RELIGION

Belong

Question What do small groups mean to you?

Response

Nick Ham

I’m a believer in support groups. There is such a wide variety of what kinds of things those groups can do. Some study the Bible; others exist as more of accountability groups. They can operate as incentive to live up to the commitments you've made for the week — in worship, service, or a random act of kindness thing — because I know that I’m going to have to tell people about that when we get together the next time. Support groups also work well for people who have been through similar kinds of circumstances. There is a group in town that meets once a week for people who’ve had a friend or family member commit suicide. I’ve referred a few people to that in the past few months. I think all of us need to be involved in some place where we feel relaxed and comfortable enough to be able to share our true self and feel heard, encouraged, and prodded to some extent — encouraged to be the best we can be, not just lifted up. Those experiences are crucial. Some classes function in that way, some of the smaller ones at least. These classes can be useful as places that provide that encouragement or prodding. It helps for any small group to know what they are discussing. A class provides that clear reason for coming together and provides some clear goals. It’s easy for people to just come together and talk about what happened in their week. —Darold Bigger

Have a good question? Email robert.folkenberg@wallawalla.edu.

REAL QUESTIONS

Religion Editor

While spending a year teaching in Thailand, I came into contact with a few incredible and alive individuals. Walking home one day near the library, a dude named Austin buzzed by on a BMX bike, stopped, and talked with me for a second. We found out we knew some of the same people, and the next moment I was standing on the pegs of his bicycle headed back to my house, talking about anything and everything with him. Shortly after that, I met Austin’s cousin Doug, and shortly after that, we were bouncing, or trying to bounce, from a trampoline up onto a shed roof. The ideas didn’t stop there: barbeques, drinking maté in the morning, music, trips, and whatever other shenanigans with whomever else wanted to join. The shared experiences of that school year added up to friendships. Those friendships were nothing short of a community, and one that wouldn’t hold up without all the energy some key people added. People were brought together by common interests, good food, and fun. Beyond those things, there was belonging and a mutual search for God and the full potential in the life He deals out. During the first 200 years when Christians began spreading the gospel, meetings weren’t taking place in the local Christian church buildings, since those didn’t actually exist. People would met in homes with friends, probably talking over a shared meal. The oldest known church buildings date back to around A.D. 300. Regardless, in the Bible — for example, Romans 16 — there is a church mentioned: the church of Cenchreae. After this church is mentioned, Paul lists name after name. The subtitle of the chapter is personal greetings. Paul knew the people that would be attending the church. He didn’t just know the homeowner, or the

name of the church where he preached along with a few of its key members, he knew (and greeted) everybody. There are around 50 names — 50 names. Paul actually knew them, and he was writing to encourage those people and their goal of living in a Jesus Christ–inspired way. Knowing the people with whom you’re finding God is essential.

sure that there are small groups by finding people willing to lead and by facilitating their small-group ideas. On that belong poster you’ll find names like Kofi Twumasi, Travis Sandidge, Megan Moore, Ciara Stewart, Blake Engelhart, and Karl Wallenkampf. And you’ll find women’s groups, Impact, Bible studies, and groups going through authors like Bob Goff. Small groups bring people together in a real way with Christ. There are so many advantages to being a part of a group larger than yourself. You’ll find renewal in it, and you’ll have the opportunity to impact those around you, to encourage and be encouraged, and to question. Go with people you care about and talk about what you care about.

“When you find something life changing, generally people share “There are that.” so many advantages Perhaps you’re looking for God in a solo sense. Maybe you’re developing to being that personal relationship with God, it’s working, and you’re basically keeping a part of that between you and God. It’s probably a a group possibility. This may not be true in every instance, but when you find something larger than life changing, generally people share that. How many times have you heard, yourself.” “Hey, you gotta check out this song — it’s great!”? When people find something great, they will talk about it and share it, especially when that something has no limit on how many people look for it and experience it. It’s no surprise, then, that on a Christian campus people talk about God. Sometimes what is said may not be so good; when people are talking about God, it may not be like they’ve found a new song they want to share around. There are some people who are talking about God in this way. Around campus, you may have noticed posters with Goldfish on them. In the upper left, there is a word, an important word — belong. Paddy McCoy and campus ministries make

The early church may not have been perfect, but at least Paul knew the people he was writing to by name. Today, we’re too many for that — and it’s awesome, but so is talking about God with a tight group that knows not just your name, but who you are. You may not find anything on that poster, but keep looking for that word in the upper left regardless — belong.

COLUMN & CREATIVE WRITING

Good Fences Rebecca Brothers Columnist On a trip to Barnes & Noble last summer, I came across a table stacked with books about surviving college. As I glanced at the titles, it quickly became apparent that a major source of anxiety for many college students was roommates, which surprised me. I’ve heard the horror stories about parties that go extremely late, significant others who move in for the weekend, and dirty dishes stacked to the light fixtures, but either my tolerance level is extremely high (stop laughing, there’s another option coming) or WWU attracts an entirely different crowd. In the past four years, I’ve had some of the best roommates for which anyone could ask, beyond two small complaints: First, they have the audacity to graduate early and move out at the end of winter quarter (Amanda Rich, I’m looking at you), and second, they don’t give me many tales of woe to share. “My roommate is so frustrating,” someone might tell me. “She refused to pay her share of the utilities deposits, and she swore that this sweater was hers even though my name is in black Sharpie on the tag, and she smuggled in her cat and pretended it was mine and now I think I’m going to be evicted.” “Yeah, my roommate is pretty frustrating too,” I’d admit. “She made brownies yesterday and didn’t use organic vanilla.” Where I do find heaps of stories, however, are my neighbors, and not just during college — in my 23 years of existence, I’ve had some interesting ones. One set of neighbors invited endless speculation. We never saw anyone leave or enter the house, nor did we ever see anyone at the windows, and yet we did see lights and hear noises from time to time. I once heard a yelp, which I chose to believe came from a dog; at other times, there were brief shrieks, which I blamed on those wild Mondaymorning parties for which humanity is known. Whenever I was home alone at

night and heard noises outside, I would automatically tell myself, “It’s probably the neighbors,” and it would take me another second or two to realize that this was not a comforting thought.

“I blamed the noises on those wild Mondaymorning parties for which humanity is known.” Another time, several years ago, my neighbor to the northwest found his tires slashed and sugar in his gas tank, and he believed that it was the result of a domestic kerfuffle with my neighbor to the southeast. If he was correct, then the southeast neighbor had probably used our unfenced yard as the shortest route to his target, sneaking through our azaleas on moonless nights with a knife in one hand and a bag of sugar in the other — a comforting mental image when the dog had to be taken outside at 3 a.m. Once I stop moving houses every nine months, I have three criteria by which to prove my adulthood and independence: one, buy a magazine subscription; two, adopt a cat; three, bring fresh bread to new arrivals in my neighborhood. I’m positive that all three criteria can easily be fulfilled, if only I can get some neighbors who don’t make me nervous. I’ll begin taking neighbor applications the Monday after graduation. Feel free to mention organic vanilla on your résumé.

PERSPECTIVE

Over Chelsea Stewart Contributing Writer

It’s over. The dust has settled; the smoke cleared. The calm after the storm is somehow more eerie than the one that came before. She is standing, dazed and confused, in the midst of a crumbled world, arms outstretched and eyes wide open. It’s over. The chaos has ended; stillness prevails; she can breathe again if she could just remember how. There’s something about the downhill side that isn’t the way she thought it would be. Still dizzy from spinning, battered from fighting, and empty from screaming, there doesn’t seem to be room for relief. So she stands — dizzy, battered, and empty — in the midst of her crumbled world. Perhaps someday there will be relief. Perhaps someday there will be breath. Perhaps someday it will truly be over. For now she stands and waits for the world to start turning again.

Calling all creative writers: The opportunity to publish your work has come! The Creative Writing section will be collecting any and all creative writing submissions starting NOW and ending March 1 in The Collegian’s first ever Creative Writing Competition. The first-prize winner will receive the honor of having his or her talent displayed in the March 7 publication, along with a $15 gift card. Ready? Set? Write! Send submissions to aswwu.collegian@wallawalla.edu.

PERSPECTIVE

SCHOLARS ABROAD

Do you have a passion for helping others?

Photo by Robbie Hill

Let Me Think Peru

If you ask any person about his or her experience serving as a student missionary or a student abroad, you will likely get a response similar to this: “It was the best year of my life.” The person will say he or she matured more in that one year than in four years anywhere else, or that it changed his or her perspective on life. After some self-reflection, I realized this was my experience too, and here are two major reasons. The first, most obvious reason is because I was able to observe and experience a different culture. It is not a coincidence the wise man in many stories is portrayed as a traveler. When you live in another country, you learn how other people in a foreign country think, how they live life, and you are able to take these observations and ideas and compare them to your current ideals and ways of thinking, revising your own ideas when necessary. According to American writer Robert A. Heinlein, “I never learned from a man who agreed with me.”

When you travel, you expand your worldview and learn from experiences you would not have just hanging out with your usual group of friends. The other, and more important, reason is that I have the time to ponder and reflect on aspects of life and on things more important than just the organic chemistry test I will be taking tomorrow or why I can’t dance like Psy. In the evenings I am able to think about the kind of man I want to be or the principles which are most important in my life. Socrates said, “The unexamined life is not worth living.” Taking time for this selfexamination is a critical step in every person’s life. I challenge you to schedule some quiet hours to think about what is important to you. When you get the inclination to browse the newest Facebook updates, instead you might contemplate the complexities of your life. What makes you happy? What is justice? What are your core values? You may find it makes your life richer and more meaningful. You might learn something about who you are and what is important to you or what you want to do with your life.

Come to an Information Meeting at Walla Walla University to find out more:

12:00-1:00 p.m., 2013 4:00-5:30 p.m.,Monday, SundayMarch March4,13, 2011

Walla Walla University Winter Educational Complex Social Work Conference Room (located upstairs) Corner of 4th St. and Davis Ave., College Place, WA Light refreshments will be served For directions call (509) 527-2590

288041 SL

Robbie Hill

A Master of Social Work Degree may be right for you regardless of your major in college.

WILMA HEPKER SCHOOL OF SOCIAL WORK & SOCIOLOGY call: (800) 854-8678, visit us online: socialwork.wallawalla.edu or e-mail: socialwork@wallawalla.edu for more information

OPINION

Timothy Barbosa

Most of us today have been born into a society that has incorporated television and movies. Instead of developing beliefs and opinions

No matter the era, humanity has yearned for a distraction from our tiresome pursuit of purpose and meaning in existence. The majority of quick fixes have not stood the test of time and have eventually revealed themselves to be negative, subtly undermining our race’s moral status. Unfortunately, the utility of modern media has grown alongside the popularity and influence of meaningless rubbish, as enticing as it is demoralizing.

“We find ourselves incorporating what we learn from films into the real world.”

Contributing Writer

of our own through experience and contemplation, kids are given prejudices, disdains, and preferences to emulate, taking on the beliefs set out by an industry in place of those given through practice. We are taught from an early age that insulting others is an easy and effective way to be funny

Movies and Stationaries Elliott Berger

Opinion Editor

Movies of any length have the potential to be incredibly influential tools that can quickly turn the tide of motivation and achievement. You all remember the “Kony 2012” video, don’t you? It was interesting to step back and take a look at the hype this near-30-minute film caused in such a short amount of time. Granted, films can be incredibly influential in bad ways, but I challenge you to think of something good that can’t be defiled. People tend to find what they look for, and a film can certainly raise a crowd.

You find what you look for in the media, and movies can be an exceptional tool of learning and discovery. The relatability of human thought represented through captured reality brings the beautiful concept of sharing experiences and an understanding that humanity is not meant to be alone. The influence that film brings to people can be incredibly rewarding. Next time you’re looking to be motivated or inspired, take a one- or two-hour break and watch a movie.

Nothing says democracy like apples, doughnuts, and leadership.

Reported that after the pope retires, he’ll receive a relatively small pension. Just in case divinity isn’t enough.

A clothing company has come out with new 3D T-shirts. Then what are we?

Jennifer Lawrence trips at the Oscars. Kats don’t always land on their feet.

Scientists have discovered the reason why women talk more than men. We don’t pay attention long enough to find out anyway.

Movies are stress relievers, and not just for escaping reality. There is a lot of crossover between real life and what those pixels are telling you. A film nearly always presents a conflict and a main character, a tension and a resolve, much like real life. Even if the conflict is unresolved, simply the fact that someone else is going

“You find what you look for in the media.”

I was sitting on a train once heading to Edinburgh, Scotland, and I had yet to talk to the lady next to me who heavily resembled Judi Dench from the James Bond movies. My innovative conversation starter, “Would you like a stick of gum?” caused her to look at me, smile, and ask in her thick accent, “I’m sorry, dear, could you say that again? You sound lovely, just like the telly.” Movies interact strongly with our comprehension of language, accents, and culture. The second-best thing to visiting a place is to watch a video about it. Our understanding will be strengthened as such a powerful representation of reality allows us to experience something new.

Check my math, but it seems like your average feature film at 1,000 words per picture is around 2,000 novels long. That’s a fair bit of information to gather in a little more than an hour; a lot of what you see and hear must be sticking. Instead of books that rely heavily on the imagination to perceive objective reality, films are able to take the imagination and present it as reality. Because of this, movies are extremely personal and influential tools that may motivate emotion and enhance learning. Movies are incredible tools of communication that are beneficial to society.

through a conflict can alleviate stress and allow the viewer to feel accompanied in what they do. It’s a big planet, but feeling alone is easy. Movies are interesting when they are relatable, and if humans made it, chances are a human will understand it.

ASWWU elections.

From storytelling to the stage to the recently developed screen, fiction has been a timeless source of entertainment and has definitely been placed in high regard among the options for distraction. Fiction, as well as all aspects of life, has evolved through the influence of technology and, of course, caters to the desires of the public eye. Filmography, as the most popular current form of fiction by far, has grown to be a part of almost every American’s life, and we are far from immune to its influence.

and popular, that authority figures are to be seen as boorish oafs, and that love is only for what the industry labels as beautiful. Unavoidably, we find ourselves incorporating what we learn from films into the real world, and our hearts and minds become conflicted trying either to become the protagonist who ends up living happily ever after, or to escape being labeled antagonist of someone else’s destiny. I mean not to denounce all validity of the field of filmography; I simply wish to inspire a search for a fuller understanding of the influence that fiction has on our reality. From the prestigious art of medieval theatre to the countless films in the modern theater, the intention to benefit humanity has been slipping away. The first step to becoming a better human race is to become a more informed one; even as we are influenced by stereotypes of beauty and standards for popularity, we can still reverse the belittlement of imperfection and the influence of negative attitudes encouraged by the media by taking a more informed approach to entertainment.

COLLEGIAN WISDOM

Theatre to Theater

PERSPECTIVE

Denzel Washington says he doesn’t prefer celebrity friends. Work relationships can be rough.

SNAPSHOTS

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Submit your pictures to us via Instagram by tagging #thecollegian. Last week an Instagram photo was miscredited to @eliserachelle that was meant to be to @elyserachelle. We apologize for this oversight. Photo by Ivan Cruz

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FEATURE

ASWWU OFFICERS

President Jono Pratt

Major: Business Hometown: Paradise, Calif. Favorite ASWWU Event: Spring Jam Guilty Pleasure: Pokémon on my DS Travel Mishaps: When visiting Julian Weller in Seattle, I got turned around on a jog and ended up struggling up and down those intense hills for a good two hours Best Local Eatery: The 9th St. Muffler Shop Taco Truck

Majors: History, religion

Favorite Weekend Activity: Baking

Hometown: Roseburg, Ore.

Favorite Meme: Tard

Favorite ASWWU Event: Winter Concert

Celebrity Crush: Natalie Portman

Guilty Pleasure: Chocolate croissants Travel Mishaps: Getting in a Peruvian riot

Favorite Kids’ Show/Movie: The Emperor’s New Groove

Best Local Eatery: Rogers’ Bakery

ELECTED

Favorite Kids’ Show: Pokémon and Brandy & Mr. Whiskers Leadership Experience: APIC president, resident assistant, ASWWU financial VP

OFFICERS Favorite ASWWU Event: Small

Favorite ASWWU Event: Agape Feast

Best Local Eatery: The Olive or Taco Bell, depending on what you’re wearing

EXECUTIVE

Hometown: College Place, Wash.

Hometown: Bayside, Calif.

Travel Mishaps: Once I was in St. Petersburg and I was pulled out of a subway terminal for taking a picture; my friends deserted me, and I was alone, very alone, with a gruff, very gruff, Russian security guard

Celebrity Crush: Hugh Jackman

Major: Social work

Major: Humanities (English concentration), pre-medicine

Guilty Pleasure: Reading spy/military novels

Favorite Meme: Skeptical African kid

Nancy Patiño

Philip Duclos

Leadership Experience: ASWWU parliamentarian, ASWWU chief justice

Favorite Weekend Activity: Sleeping

Social Vice President

Executive Vice President

events, especially when I’m busy; I also love events like the Barn Party

Favorite Meme: This is a tough one; currently my favorite meme is the grumpy cat

Guilty Pleasure: Chocolate

Celebrity Crush: Angelina Jolie because of all her work in thirdworld countries

Travel Mishaps: Most of my mishaps when I travel involve me getting lost Best Local Eatery: Hua’s Mongolian BBQ Favorite Weekend Activity: Sleeping and doing anything that involves socializing

Favorite Kids’ Show: Dragon Tales Leadership Experience: Senator my sophomore year and this year; assistant to the ASWWU social vice president

Favorite Weekend Activity: Spending time talking, creating, or swashbuckling with my friends Favorite Meme: Memes?! Ain’t nobody got time for that! Celebrity Crush: Audrey Hepburn. Favorite Kids’ Show: Tom & Jerry Leadership Experience: Assistant chaplain for the men’s residence halls

Spiritual Vice President Karl Wallenkampf

FEATURE 15

The Hope for

Mental Health

Contributing Writer

I first starting hearing the terms “mental health” and “mental illness” when I began studying at Seattle Pacific University in 1994 through a work–study position in an HIV/AIDS clinic for women and children. They were terms doctors and psychiatrists used to classify those we so flippantly call “crazy.” It was in this clinic that I worked alongside medical professionals to provide services to those living in the margins. Much of our population was multidiagnosed, outcast, and living with what you might call “modern-day leprosy.” At 19 years of age, I was introduced to a population of people who were stigmatized because of their illness. Many carried psychological burdens,

“Change comes from the bottom up.” struggled with health problems, battled domestic violence, and lived in chaotic homes. It made me wonder why, when living in a country with advanced medical treatments and rich with resources, was there such toxicity when encountering the mentally ill? It wasn’t until I stepped onto the WWU campus that I truly began to understand that mental, physical, and social health are vital and interwoven strands of life. Fast forward to 2007, when I began working for REACH Ministries, a small nonprofit organization in Tacoma, Wash.,

that was providing compassionate care to those affected by the chronic illness AIDS. I had spent the former 10 years in the fast lane, living a life in an abusive marriage riddled with alcohol and drug addiction. Along with missing work and standing up friends, I had experienced social withdrawal, increasing anxiety, and a mounting inability to cope. Changes in behavior were evident, but no one knew quite what to do. When I moved from California back to Washington state to leave this harmful situation, I found the new beginning I needed. My life had come full circle now; with REACH I worked closely with some of the very same children I had seen in a medical setting just 15 years before. I found myself on the path to recovery, an often difficult and bumpy road, right next to the children and families I was serving. Tony Campolo was the honorary chair of REACH Ministries and traveled on behalf of our ministry, raising awareness and much-needed funds for our small organization. I walked off the plane and onto the tarmac of Walla Walla Regional Airport in 2007 for a speaking engagement and recruiting opportunity here at the university where Campolo would be. Campolo, an author, a pastor, a prodigious orator, a social activist, and a passionate follower of Jesus, came to share his knowledge with the WWU community. He recognized our need to laugh and learn, and his love for communicating truth seldom failed to keep one on the edge of one’s pew. But his talk shifted from storytelling to the thing he is most profoundly passionate about — the needs of those who suffer and the power of those who do something to relieve it. Campolo’s mentorship over the next few years

would prove to be vital as I fell in and out of recovery; my own life experiences were shaped by supportive relationships like his. A year later, in 2008, Paddy McCoy invited Campolo back to the university for the “Revolutionary Love” weekend. Again, it was a time for transforming hearts to service. He told stories, shared scripture, and prompted boldness. “Change comes from the bottom up,” he said. “By responding to the needs of others, you will be revolutionary!” I was inspired yet again. In 2011, after hearing this talk, I decided to come to WWU to finish my undergraduate degree. When I arrived in the fall, I found myself taking history, religion, and social work classes. I loved this new learning and longed to know more. Winter quarter I was thrust into mental health first aid, a topics course offered in the social work department. It was here that I was taught how to perform early mental health intervention, how to be prepared to help a loved one in an emergency, how to offer support to someone in emotional distress, and how to assist someone in need. It was here that I learned the resulting problems and social withdrawal from my history of substance abuse also categorized me as having mental health problems. I recognized how many others had experienced this same new beginning that I had experienced coming to WWU. Peers shared their experience with bipolar, eating, and panic disorders, as well as their depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Despite our condition, we were united in hope, the most critical facet in recovery. Through this training, we learned signs and symptoms of a variety of mental health disorders, such as trauma, psychosis, sui-

cide, and non-injurious self-harm. We were not trained to diagnose, but to intervene in a helping role and to connect people to the appropriate resources. It became very evident in this social microcosm that treatment for mental health was a growing and real need right here on campus. AWARENESS The terms mental illness, mental health, and mental disorders are tossed around freely in society today, yet many aren’t truly clear about their meanings or their relevance in their daily lives. The truth is that mental health problems are more common than heart disease, lung disease, and cancer combined, and it is estimated that one in four adults are diagnosed with a mental disorder in any single year. Mental disorders often occur in combination: It is not unusual for a person with anxiety to also develop depression, or a person who is depressed to misuse alcohol or other drugs, perhaps in an effort to self-medicate. These disorders — anxiety, mood, and substance

ON E I N

Stefanie Johnson

Americans experience a mental health disorder in a year.

FEATURE

abuse — are the most common today, and trends appear only to increase over time. The truth is that mental health disorders and illnesses are likely to affect many of our family and friends.

and chemical intervention. They are comprised of designated mental health professionals who provide emergent crisis intervention services 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, to individuals who are experienc-

A national survey found that 26.2 percent of adults (those 18 or older) have experienced a mental disorder in any one year. This is the equivalent to 57.7 million people.1 One in 17, and approximately one in 10 children, live with a serious mental illness or emotional disorder.2

When thinking about those affected by mental illness, it is important to distinguish between the person experiencing a mental health crisis and the problem itself. It is dangerous to perceive people by their conditions and define them accordingly. It warrants attention, because of the dangers of this stigma and the judgment attending it are often associated with mental health. You may be hard pressed to hear someone referred to as a “cancer” or a “broken leg.” However, we often refer to people as “schizophrenics,” “manic depressives,” even “bipolars.” “Crazy” is another word we use: “affected by a psychiatric disorder,” “ridiculous or not showing good sense or practicality.” We use the word synonymously to mean foolish, irrational, peculiar, odd, and, interestingly enough, meaning very fond of, as in, “I’m crazy about tennis.” I am guilty of this derogatory labeling, which can be a formidable barrier to recovery. Fighting the stigma associated with mental illness is often more difficult than battling the illness itself.

It is likely that you have encountered someone at work, in church, or in our community that lives with a diagnosed mental disorder. You might have come across people in your classes, in your dorms, and in your apartment buildings who have faced distress or mental health challenges that have required support and assistance. Mental health is a growing concern. In early February 2013, the Excellence in Mental Health Act was introduced, which would support community mental health and addictions systems by establishing national standards and oversight for behavioral health centers. For the one in five Americans living with mental health concerns, illnesses, and addictions, this would improve access to the services and treatments needed to keep them healthy and safe in their own communities. /3 OF ADULTS AND 1 /2 OF CHILDRENWITH A DIAGNOSABLE MENTAL DISORDER RECEIVE MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES IN A GIVEN YEAR. 1

Locally, the Walla Walla crisis team helps to respond to individuals experiencing mental health concerns. They are an integrated unit providing both mental health

mental illness.” The stigma assumes many forms, overt and subtle, and can negatively affect all aspects of life — access to housing, employment, and friendships. It can appear as discrimination, prejudice, fear, distrust, and stereotyping.

Photo by Greg Khng

ing debilitating symptoms associated with emotional distress or chronic mental illness. The primary role when responding to individuals in need is to assist in their stabilization. They work closely with friends, family members, physicians, and/or other professionals who are involved in the person’s life to conduct a mental-status evaluation. What you might not have known is that the crisis team was on our campus an estimated 12 times last year, right in our own backyard. Right in your backyard — here. WHY TO HELP Many people avoid individuals in distress or don’t offer help because of the widespread stigma of mental illness. “Stigma is a cluster of beliefs and negative attitudes that motivate the public to fear, avoid, reject, and discriminate against people with

The negative attitudes and beliefs about mental health are common, and the ramifications are often serious. So many stumble and suffer in silence while the debilitating effects of the stigma affect access to care and quality of care. Shame has far-reaching impacts. The person needing help might deny a problem or refuse help because of the stigma. They might distrust the motives of one who tries to offer them help. This means that by stigmatizing individuals affected by mental health, we have set up another barrier to their recovery. RECOVERY Good mental health and mental illness are not polar opposites but are points on a continuum. Mental health “is a state of successful performance of mental function, resulting in positive activities, fulfilling relationships, and the ability to cope and adapt.”3 It includes emotional balance, the capacity to live fully, and the flexibility to deal with life’s inevitable challenges, trauma, and stresses.

The president’s New Freedom Commission Report defined recovery as “the process in which people are able to work, live, learn, and participate fully in their commu-

“As members of this community, you have an opportunity to serve those in need of care.” nities.” It is a personal process of regaining physical, spiritual, mental, and emotional balance.4 People like me are experiencing good mental health for the first time in a long time, no longer hiding their story, but trusting in experiences and sharing with those who grapple with similar things. It is also important to know that recovery may not be linear; it may instead result from unexpected encounters, friends in the workplace, and mentors like Campolo — a culmination of experiences. In helping others in their recovery, it may come through the most difficult work of navigating true divisions, of considering others and boundaries before crashing through them, of pondering differences and recognizing the truest complexities of others. CHALLENGE As members of this community, you have an opportunity to serve those in need of care, to affirm others’ humanity, and to see the value of those around you. It is important to make the support systems real and personal. Relying on social media to connect and provide this system can inhibit true friendships, which are developed only through face-to-face interactions and intimacy with one another. By recognizing the presence of poor mental health or mental illness, we can be a bridge to resources for people suffering. Additionally, hiding or ignoring the needs for support and connectivity only perpetuates the true isolation

FEATURE many feel. We are an increasingly diverse nation of individuals, families, and communities that differ economically, spiritually, and physiologically, yet we share commonalities, and we must come together under conditions plagued by distrust and fear of the unknown. The needs of those around us are ever present, as are the requests for help that come our way. It is in the middle of things — in the throes of studying, planning events, singing in concerts, working on cars, engineering things, and attending meetings — that we must learn to help one another. Open the door to the peer in need, listen to the war-weary veteran, reach out to the friend with the drinking problem, those experiencing family dysfunction, and friends who are restless and weary.

“It is dangerous to perceive people by their conditions and define them accordingly.” For Christians, examples of this kind of care and provision can be identified in the life of Jesus. He dined with drunks and noshed with gluttons. He sought after the sick, the poor, and the downtrodden. He was garbed in love and blind to prejudice.

He extended what we so desperately need: social justice — love in action. He asks us to do the same. Whether Christian, Buddhist, Jewish, or agnostic, we are taught to love our neighbor as ourselves. We are urged to fight oppression and challenge stigmas, to cross social boundaries. When we are concerned for others, we are permitted to step over that line. Share your story. Mentor others. Be aware. Knock on the door. Answer when called. Assess for risks. Be willing to see problems and to bridge the gap to resources. Listen nonjudgmentally, give reassurance, and offer support. Do justice. Love mercy. Do these crazy, revolutionary things, ensuring that no one is alone when navigating the complexities of life.

1. “NIMH: The numbers count — Mental disorders in America.” National Institute of Health. Available at nimh.nih. gov/publicat/numbers.cfm. 2. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. “Mental Health: A Report of the Surgeon General.” Rockville, Md., U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Center for Mental Health Services, 1999, pp. 408-409, 411. 3. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (1999) “Mental Health: a report of the Surgeon General — executive summary.” Rockville, Md. 4. New Freedom Commission on Mental Health (2003) “Achieving the promise: transforming mental health care in America.” Final report (DHHS Pub. No. SMA-03-3832). Rockville, Md., mentalhealthcommission.gov.

MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES Life-Threatening Emergency: 911

Walla Walla Crisis Team: (509) 524-2999 (24 hours a day, seven days a week) Integrated unit providing both mental health and chemicaldependency interventions, which provides emergent-crisis intervention to individuals who are experiencing debilitating symptoms associated with a chronic mental illness or are suffering from acute emotional distress.

NAMI — Walla Walla Chapter: (509) 529-6160 Nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization advocating for access to services, treatment, support, and research. Steadfastly committed to raising awareness and building better communities. Affiliates and volunteer leaders work in local communities across the country to raise awareness and provide essential and free education, advocacy, and support group programs. Family to Family 12-week class begins Tuesday, March 5, 6:30–8:30 p.m., VA Medical Center, Building 6-9, Room 208.

The Trevor Lifeline: (866) 488-7386 Leading national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide-prevention services to gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and questioning youth.

Alcoholics Anonymous: (509) 522-5059 Fellowship of men and women who share their experiences, strength, and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism.

Campus Security: (509) 527-2222

Serenity Point: (509) 529-6036 Local organization dedicated to serving those with addictions. WWU Pathways to Change: (509) 527-2654 Expands mental health care to include anyone in need, regardless of race, gender, creed, orientation, or economic status. Provides practical learning environment in which student therapists can apply psychological principles and develop their clinical skills. WWU Campus Ministries: (509) 527-2010 Exists to bring Jesus to life in our hearts, on our campus, and to the world through the building of genuine, Christ-centered relationships. Encourages, celebrates, studies, and challenges each person to walk in the footsteps of Jesus.

WWU Counseling & Testing Services: (509) 527-2147 Committed to assisting the students of Walla Walla University in reaching their highest potential through counseling and testing. It offers holistic approaches to problem solving in an environment of respect and acceptance. A program of medication management is available when needed, and resource center containing books, videos, and materials is available. Involved in drug prevention and awareness across the campus. *Additional resources and classes can be found at in the department of social work and sociology, as well as from the Counseling and Testing Services.

LIFE

CULTURE

Auto-Tune or Not To Tune? River Davis

of tracks stacked on each other like pancakes on a Sunday morning.

Way back when I was a kid, we didn’t have MP3 files. We actually had to go to the living room and hand crank the big wax cylinder, which played the only song we owned through a big, brass, conical speaker. My mom would be sitting in the old rocking chair knitting scarves for the family, while my dad stoked the fire and read the evening news. We would sit by candlelight and listen to the pure, waxy, unaltered notes of “Mary Had a Little Lamb” until we fell asleep on the bearskin rug that my dad had skinned himself.

But there is one effect that is the forbidden fruit in music, yet almost every major artist uses it. It is something called “AutoTune.” Auto-Tune is pitch-correction software used in music production to alter the pitch of audio (mostly vocals) so that a slightly off-key vocal take can be magically fixed into a flawless, pitch-perfect track with just a click of a button. “Marvelous!” you might think. “But if everyone uses it, then why doesn’t Bon Iver sound like TPain?” That is a very good question, reader. It is because most songs use it very subtly, to the point where the listener is not supposed to know that Auto-Tune was used. “Oh, so that’s why Fall Out Boy sounds so good on their CD and then sounds like loud karaoke when in concert.”

Contributing Writer

OK, fine — I might be exaggerating a little, but still. What would Thomas Edison think? The man who made audio recording possible would shrivel up and disintegrate if he saw the technology we utilize now to create a flawless, perfect song. What used to be simply vibrations read from carvings on a wax cylinder now is represented as a cocktail of compressors, adaptive limiters, bass boosts, spread stereo plugins, reverbs, delays, MIDI, gains, and layers and layers

So, is Auto-Tune cheating? Does it take the life out of a raw vocal track, still in its beauty of humanness and flaw? For some artists, Auto-Tune is their instrument. Take T-Pain or Owl City, for example: It becomes part of their musical identity instead of a

guilty crutch used subtly to blend in with the high standard of modern commercial music. Honestly, I often find myself pulling my arm back with all of my strength as it tries to open the Auto-Tune software when I am mixing a song. How can I reach the seemly impossible standard of the big guys’ “perfect music” without using their tools instead tracking vocal after vocal until I get a halfway decent one? As I resist the temptation of letting electronics take over my voice, I take account of some warriors of the Auto-Tune resistance. Noah Gunderson, Jay-Z, Death Cab for Cutie, The Fray, and many other bands are some examples of those who keep the music real. I think that it is worth the couple of flat notes when the artist can simply use his soul to make the music great. Instead of hearing another computerized, robotic Ke$ha anthem, I give great respect to the artists that let a couple of notes slip, perhaps as a sign of saying, “This is me. This is my voice: no more, no less. Take it for what it is and let it speak to you in its own way. It isn’t perfect, but neither am I, so let it be.”

Music is an art form, remember, so there are no “wrong notes.” Some notes may fall off-key, but if they are sung from the soul, then that is when beautiful music is made, whether it is on a high-tech MP3 file or a wax cylinder. Anthems and Local Focal by Grant Perdew

LOCAL FOCAL Mama Mia’s Pasta

Homemade pasta, breadsticks, and salads. That should be enough persuasion right there. Mama Mia’s Pasta offers tasty meals that “you will surely love.” A perfect place to run in and get a load of delicious pasta to go for cheap, this casual restaurant is decently priced and evokes a pleasant atmosphere of Italy. Former ACA students, this is the place to go if you want to escape Walla Walla and revisit your sensational experiences of European culinary delights. Tues.–Sat. 11 a.m.–8 p.m.

AUTO-TUNED ANTHEMS

Forget T-Pain: These artists have used the power of pitch correction for an artistic, and even humorous, effect.

Daft Punk

Electronic

"One More Time" The French musicians proved in the early 2000s that Auto-Tune didn’t have to be a novelty effect used to mess up an already horrific song. The artificial vocals are perfect with the band’s robotic persona, making this an example of using correction for a solid reason.

Bon Iver

Folk

"Woods" Didn’t think folk rockers messed with Auto-Tune? False. This track makes completely different use of the effect than most other songs. The effect captures the ambiance of the song’s setting and adds to the transcendental feel Justin Vernon went for in this nature-inspired record.

Polica

Alternative

"Dark Star" Subtlety is generally the good way to go with any effect, vocal or otherwise. In this track, the Minnesotan indie rockers use Auto-Tune to give their lead female vocal a rather pleasing effect on the chorus.

Cher

Dance

"Believe" Back in 1998, no one had considered using pitch correction as a special effect. The futuristic effect on Cher’s vocals were revolutionary when released, and “Believe” became her biggest hit. To this day, the Auto-Tune sound is often referred to as the “Cher effect.” She did it first!

Antoine Dodson

Pop

"Till The World Ends" The report made by the eccentric Alabaman led to his Internet fame and resulted in the glorious Auto-Tuned song by the Gregory Brothers. It has sold thousands of copies and even appeared on the Billboard Hot 100 list.

Kanye West

Hip Hop

"Love Lockdown" This is your chance to pick your favorite moment from Kanye’s 808s and Heartbreak, because AutoTune is all over this sole record. West never uses it without a reason; it creates a disconnected, late-night ambience that reflect’s this track’s subdued nature.

DIVERSIONS

YOU ASKED FOR IT

The Advice You Need to Hear Eric, I have a huge problem. Walla Walla doesn't have many potential dates for me. There are lots of cute girls I could flirt with here, but most of the people I'm interested in don't have the same beliefs as me. There's this one super fly-honey, but I know she won't be mine. I like hip hop and It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, and she only listens to Christian music. Nooooooo! Plus, she's into horses. That's a financial investment I can't handle. It stings to know how fruitless most of my efforts will be despite how interested I am. On a campus where unconventional beliefs are taboo, how am I supposed to find babes who will dig me too? — Sad Face OK, SF, I going to be honest with you. You need to give her up. If you actually like her, you don’t want to change her beliefs or her to change yours. Basically, don’t go for the forbidden fruit. Eve did it once, and now we’re all paying the price. That same thing will happen if you try to go for her. You’re going to get invested in something that will be — you said it — fruitless. And then you’ll be writing back again next week saying your heart’s broken.

LIFE

Sexy Is An Attitude Eric Weber

It’s spring, and I know a lot of you weirdos are going to attempt to get a boyfriend/girlfriend. The first thing I Diversions Editor want to say is: Stop. Nobody wants to date you. Your lack of swag is apparent to everyone; go back to your room, have a good cry, and then start buying cats (there’s a buy-one-get-one-free deal at the Humane Society). It’s time to accept your new life. But for those of you who aren’t heeding my warning, here's a tip to get that significant other in your life. I have four words for you: Sexy is an attitude. A lot of people think that sexy is wearing new clothes (although I’m not going to lie — it does make a difference), but in reality, sexy is an attitude. For instance, this summer I attended a hippie festival. Not only did I look like a cross between Boy George and Phillip Seymour Hoffman, but I also had an attitude that would put any high school girl to shame. My advice is to realize that you are sexy — you’re a hot piece of you-know-what — so go out there, you little birds, and find your bees! Listen to me read my column at soundcloud.com/eweberz.

Sorry,

Need advice? Ask an anonymous question at collegianadvice.tumblr.com and we can anonymously work this out together.

Start Maze by Elliott Berger

Finish

LIFE

SPORTS

Getting to Know the Wolves Tye Forshee

News Quarterback Alex Smith has been traded to the Kansas City Chiefs. Roy Hibbert and David Lee have each been suspended for one game for an in-game fight. Russel Martin has dropped the Canadian World Baseball Classic team because he refuses to play shortstop. Martin Tremblay of Vancouver is spending 15 days in jail for tripping an opposing player following his son's hockey game.

Sports Editor

Tyreek Luckett, sophomore business major from Houston, Texas, tells about his experience playing basketball for WWU.

build trust with one another on the court. James Thorn was a good leader for the team, who wasn’t here last year. We have definitely learned how to play together better since last year and are more familiar with what Coach Hill wants from us.

Tyreek Luckett: Walla Walla University offered me the chance to play basketball during my freshman year that other schools didn’t. Because I am Seventh-day Adventist, it played an important role as well. If Walla Walla University didn’t have a basketball program, I would not be attending school here.

F: What does basketball life entail throughout the season? L: A lot of travel and a lot of practice. We practice over 12 hours a week, and that does not include working out. Playing on the road is fun in front of hostile fans. The gym at some schools is packed with fans; that makes it exciting. F: What has changed for the team compared to last year? L: We have definitely hung out more outside of basketball, which has helped

F: What have you improved on since last year, and what do you want to do to improve your game in the future? L: I have attacked the basket a lot more this year. Last year, I spotted up to score and played out on the perimeter more. This year, I have been more aggressive on getting into the lane. I want to improve my game by attacking even more; while I attacked the basket more this year, I need to do it even more. I also need to get better at my mid-range shot. It would be another way I could find a way to score the basketball. Julian Holliday has definitely helped me to improve my game this year, as well as James Thorn.

Tye Forshee: Why did you decide to play basketball for the Wolves?

“Walla Walla University offered me the chance to play basketball during my freshman year that other schools didn’t.”

next day and we ended up winning in overtime. As for myself, the game against Whitman I would consider my best. We lost the game, but I scored 31 points.

F: What is the goal for the team next season? L: To get to the national tournament. This year, we let a few games get by us that Photos by Darin Berning prevented us from getting into the conference tournaF: What do you think of Coach Hill? ment. We hope to improve at least to L: He is a good coach. He is hard on us get us into the conference tournament and motivates us, and he is fun to hang and to give our team the chance to prove around off the court. He has definitely ourselves. We should be a more exciting helped me improve my game by getting team to watch in the future. me to attack the basket more. Tyreek Luckett, Ryan Spady, and Miguel F: What would you consider the Martinez have been nominated for conferhighlight of the season for you and the ence all-American for their outstanding team? play this season. L: For our team, I would say the way we bounced back against Montana Tech. We lost the first game by 30 points, but somehow the team turned it around the