October 11, 2012
Ke Alaka i Volume 101: Issue 6
THE LEADER
Historic Missionary Change: Conference shocker spurs more missionaries 4
Copper Controversy: Why the penny is a hot topic in America 6
Money Matters: Business professors give financial advice 8
Ke Alaka i
Photo of the Week
October 11, 2012 • Volume 101: Issue 6 Editor-in-chief
Advisor
M a r i ssa E l d e r
L e e an n L amb e r t
COPY EDITORS
VIDEO PRODUCTION
Na t ha ni e l Wa s d e n Ab i gayl e B u t l e r Martin Milius
A llie Gardin e r Ian L in ds ey
PHOTOGRAPHERs
ART & GRAPHICS
Ba r t Jol l ey Za c h Ko n e ck i M a t t M cD o n a l d
Mic h ae l Gulde n Ste ph an ie T s e Make n z ie H e ad Reb e c c a H aw s Wh itn ey Yun
MULTIMEDIA JOURNALISTS G i sel l e R a mi re z , M a ke n z ie H e ad, L is a T uttle, M a . V i s O. Ta g u ba , Te r i na C h r is ty, Ste ph any F ra nc e, C l ove r C h e n g, Matth ew B le ds o e, Amy Ku n i h i ro, D y l a n W i lc ox, Eth an To le do, Al ec B a r n ey, Je f f M cLe o d, Sydn ey Ode ll, Zo e S a f eer, Je n n i f e r H e r re ra INTERNS M ei Y i n Phi l l i p A n d r u s
AD MANAGER Matth ew B le ds o e
Participants in the Polynesian Cultural Center’s Haunted Lagoon ride are ready to greet visitors. Photo by Matt McDonald
Table of Contents
CONTACT
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ON THE COVER
BYU-Hawaii students hold their national currency in front of the Little Circle and the McKay Auditorium. They are standing from left to right: Caesar Pormar from Indonesia, Zach Konecki from America, and Aaron Tsai from Taiwan; and kneeling left to right are: Marie Pais from South Korea, Hongjun Lu from China, Patricia Kwok from Hong Kong and Roth Hamberg from Cambodia. On pages 8 and 9, two of our BYUH Business professors give financial advice to students. Photo by Mei Yin
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Ke Alaka‘i
[page 12]
Ge n e ral conf erence u pdat e
Secret s of t he dol l ar bi l l
[page 6]
[page 14]
Sh o uld penni es be removed f rom U. S. c ur re n c y
Non-Hawai i an mu si c remove d f ro m th e gym
Share with us your photo of the week and we may feature it in our next issue. e-mail us at kealakai@byuh.edu
Robert R. Holland D.C., L.M.T.
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CALENDAR
OCT
Game Center is hosting a 12 The dance event, entitled, “Orange
Bright Blacklight.” The event admission costs $3 for students with ID and $5 for admission and bowling. The dance will be held from 8:30 p.m. to midnight.
NOTE WORTHY news headlines
OCT
will be the third annual half 13 There marathon and 5k races at Gunstock ranch. The half marathon costs $35 and the 5k costs $20. The event will be an all-day event.
OCT
Lady Seasiders of the women’s 13 The volleyball team will face off against Cal Baptist in the CAC at 7:30 p.m. on Fri. Admission is free for students with ID.
‘‘
‘‘
the week in
QUOTES
“I a m pleased to announ ce t h a t ef f ec t ive immediately, a ll wor t hy a nd a bl e young men wh o h ave gra du a ted from high sch o o l or it s equ iva l ent, regardless of whe re they l ive, will have the o p t ion o f bei ng recommended f o r m is s io n a r y ser vice beginning a t t h e a ge of 1 8 , i nstead of age 19.… wor t hy you ng women who have t h e d e s ire to ser ve may be recom m e n d e d f or mi ssionar y ser vice beg inni ng a t age 19, instead o f a ge 21.” -Ac c ording to LD S.org, Pre s id en t T homa s S. Monson of the LD S C hu rc h announced this h is t or ic cha nge at General Con f e ren ce. “O u r f eelings of separa t io n fro m God w i l l diminish as we becom e more childlike bef ore H im . T ha t i s not easy in a world whe re t h e opi ni ons of other human being s ca n have such an af f ec t o n o u r motives.” -sa i d President Henr y B. E y r ing of t he LD S Church said a t G e n e ra l C onf erence.
Students of the BYUH Korean Club perform the dance from Psy’s “Gangnam Style” viral music video at Performance Series event. Photo by Mei Yin.
Keep calm and ‘Gangnam Style’
Students react to viral Korean pop music video Korean Pop sensation, Park Jae-sang, better known as ‘Psy,’ has taken over the Internet with his viral music video hit, “Gangnam Style.” Since its release in July, the song has garnered attention worldwide. With 350 million views on YouTube reaching the top spot of YouTube’s top 100 videos, Psy’s catchy beat and choreography has hypnotized Internet users everywhere. The song jumped in ranking from 64 to 11 in Billboard. com’s “Hot 100” within a week. “Gangnam Style” is so popular in fact that a few parodies have been made of the music video. Psy’s popularity reached students at the “Taste of Asia” event held at the Cannon Activities Center where students from the Korean chapter performed their version of the song. “I like Psy’s new hit single because I like to dance [to it] and the song is really fitting to the dance,” said Dongwook Kim, a sophomore from Korea majoring in TESOL. Considering the hype of “Gangnam Style,” there are some students who do not feel strongly about it. “Honestly, I’m not a fan of this song in the slightest,” said Micaela Hong, a
junior from Maui majoring in elementary education. “It makes me cringe just hearing the name. It’s not appealing to me nor is it catchy. In fact, in a weird way this song offends me.” At the Taste of Asia event, the Korean Chapter showcased traditional Korean music and dance as well as modern Korean pop music. Students share their thoughts on the old and new versions of Korean music. “I identify myself with the traditional music culture of Korea. I mean, even though I don’t like idols of Korea, I like Korean music culture,” Kim later said. “It is still not enough [of a] situation for music area compared to other developed countries, but we are still developing our music including ‘Gangnam Style’.” “I relate more towards the modern musical culture of Korea,” Hong said. “I’m not familiar with the more traditional music of Korea, but that’s something I’d like to explore eventually. However, as a whole, the current Korean musical scene is what I’ve familiarized myself with.” - D ylan-Sage Wilcox
October 11, 2012
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P
resident Thomas S. Monson shocked the viewers of the first session of the 182 semiannual General Conference on Oct. 6 with his statement about new ages at which future missionaries can be recommended for full-time service. After his declaration of two additional temples that will be built in Arizona and Peru in the years to come, President Monson announced the decrease in minimum ages for missionary service from previously 19 to 18 for men, and 21 to 19 for women. Monson explained that the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, in certain countries and due to military and educational requirements, have allowed this change in the age of young missionaries. Because of the success that has been found in the service of these younger missionaries, the opportunity to serve at the specified ages has been opened to all. However, the prophet made it clear that this new policy is not mandatory. Elder Jeffrey R. Holland and Elder Russel M. Nelson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles further explained that the change is an option at a press conference held right after the first session. “We are accelerating our efforts to fulfill that mandate and give more young men and women an opportunity to participate in that divine commission…We’re not suggesting that all young men will or should serve in this earlier age…Neither are we suggesting that all young women are expected to serve,” explained Nelson. With this new revelation from the prophet, BYU-Hawaii students who were getting ready to serve their missions became excited and pleased to leave early. “My very first thought was excitement when I watched it. I was so happy I could leave earlier on my mission but sad I started school and have to wait for my semester to be over to leave and serve,” said Brian Wheeler, a freshman with an undeclared major from Hawaii. “I think this is such a great idea because I know for boys the year of waiting around doesn’t help them at all. It wastes time more than blesses them with maturity. With more people going right out of high school, we will have a lot more worthy missionaries to leave and serve than we would just by waiting that year where boys
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Young women react to the prophet’s historic announcement lowering the required age for missionary service for both men and women. Photos from LDS News Room Ke Alaka‘i
don’t really do much and now girls won’t be so old and married if they want to serve a mission. They can come back early and not waste four and a half years before they marry.” “This new missionary plan for me really is significant and needful for us to meet and achieve the Lord’s plan, which is to share the gospel to others. I know the new plan will be effective and successful since there is truly a lot of work to do out there. It is just so good to know that the Lord is sure and saw that a lot of young people at these ages have really so much potential and are capable in doing His work,” also commented Diane Sia, a junior in accounting from Philippines. Though surprised of the new notice, some parents became eager to prepare their children to go on a mission in an earlier age. “My first reaction was, ‘Wow! Really?’ I was so thrilled about the possibility that my younger son, a senior in high school, could go on a mission sooner than expected. As parents, we will try to encourage him to go when he’s 18, though, it will depend upon his readiness and desire. In the end, we will honor his decision when he wants to go,” exclaimed Belinda Cruz Duke, a parent from Hawaii. “I think it is an excellent idea. I am so excited for the work and the gospel to spread forth even more now. I believe it is from Heavenly Father. Seminary will be even more important now because they can graduate from seminary and leave shortly after. That is good preparation. We can now have the children be thinking of missions sooner. The boys don’t have to think about what they can do while they wait for the months to go by. The girls won’t be too much older when they get back,” expressed Martha Magalei, a parent from Tokyo, Japan. Chantel Hunt, a senior in international cultural studies- anthropology and a returned missionary from Utah, commented on the benefits of these new changes. “I was super excited when President Monson announced the new younger ages for missionary service. It was a huge surprise. I think this will make it easier for many more young men and especially women to serve missions. Serving a mission is the best thing I’ve ever done in my whole life, so I’m a big advocate for women serving missions. Now that women can serve younger they don’t have to choose between missions and marriage – they can get both,” she said. At the press conference, Elder Holland emphasized that with this new rule, there would also be more changes regarding mission preparation. “Prospective missionaries will be asked to enhance and improve and take more seriously their pre-mission preparation. These will include total personal worthiness…supplemented by gospel study.” He expressed the main purpose of this new proclamation, saying, “God is hastening His work and He needs more and more willing and worthy missionaries to spread the light and the truth and the hope and the salvation and the Gospel of Jesus Christ to an often dark and fearful world.”
-MA Vis Tagu ba
Younger Fishers of Men: LDS Prophet lowers age requirement for missionary service
October 11, 2012
3 5
Keep the change Pennies valued at more than just currency
T
Ke Alaka‘i
-Ethan Tole do
Pho
tos by Zac h
Ko
n ki
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Charities such as the Ronald McDonald House and Pennies for Patients prove the true value of the penny through their fundraising. In 2009, on the hundredth anniversary of the Lincoln penny, Pennies for Patients actually celebrated the collection of their 15 billionth penny. That's $150 million for cancer patients. In all honesty, some people just want the penny for nostalgic reasons. Referring to the connotation of good luck, freshman Taylor Bobbit said, "Pennies are a big part of America. Removing the penny would take a piece of America and it’s culture away.� It has been a part of our currency since 1793, and the Lincoln we are all very familiar with has been in production since 1909. The Lincoln penny was the first piece of U.S. currency to feature a portrait of a historical figure, and also incorporated many other things we now see in today's currency. The penny has become a part of the United States and our culture, and we should not be so quick to abandon the copper coated coin in our pockets.
ec
here have been ongoing debates over the years about whether or not the copper-coated one-cent piece we call the penny should stay in circulation. In 1989, United States Representative Jim Kolbe introduced a bill that would eliminate pennies and round all prices to the nearest nickel. It did not pass. He introduced similar acts to remove the penny in 2001 and 2006. Neither of them were passed. There are many arguments against keeping the penny. Pennies cost more to produce than they are worth. The zinc inside of a penny has proven to be hazardous if swallowed, say researchers at Duke University on radiology.rsna.org. People in general do not use their pennies, and they end up leaving circulation anyways. Despite all these arguments, a survey shows that about 66 percent of students at BYU-Hawaii would prefer that the penny stay in circulation. If the penny were to be eliminated, it is
possible that consumers would be charged more for their purchases, since every provider would raise prices to the nearest nickel, instead of rounding down, to ensure greatest profit. This is not to discredit business owners, but it is true that they are trying to make the largest profit they can. It is likely the government would do the same thing with raising taxes. If the penny was eliminated, that would make the nickel the new smallest coin produced. That would cause for an increase in the demand of nickels. "It was explained to me that the nickel costs more than the penny to make," said Erekson Short, a junior in psychology. "So if we get rid of the penny, the nickel will become even more expensive to make." Currently, nickels cost about 11 cents cents to produce, a 6 cent difference. Pennies are also produced for more than what they are worth, 2.4 cents, but that is still only a cent and a half difference. About 13.5 million pennies are produced each day, according to the U.S. Mint. If the nickel were produced at that same rate, the financial lose would be far greater to the U.S. government. "Financially, it makes sense to keep the penny in," said Short.
Time to
change
things up
Why the penny is just not worth it
A
law change eliminating the penny would benefit penny hoarders across the nation and would save the United States millions of dollars in production costs. CNN Money reports that as of 2011 it cost 2.4 cents to make one penny and 11.2 cents to make a nickel. As the United States looks into a cloudy economic future, saving over $100 million a year in production of a penny seems more than necessary. As of February 2012, the Obama administration took action by asking Congress for permission “to change the mix of metal that goes to make pennies and nickels.” This could save millions of dollars. Since 1982 pennies have merely been coated with copper cutting down the cost somewhat, but pennies made prior to 1982 were made up of copper and zinc. Those hoarding and saving pennies could be rewarded for their unique efforts if the penny is taken out of circulation. Toby Redd, a junior in finance from Bremerton, Wash., said, “I think it is a good idea to collect pennies, but I haven’t gotten into it. My dad’s friend collects pennies that are made prior to 1982 and makes easy money.” Some collectors have begun visiting banks just to get extra pennies and sort the pennies to find those made before 1982. The demand and prices of copper have been rising in recent years, making it very appealing to those looking to make an extra “penny” in tough economic times. The demand for copper is so high, ABC News reports in San Diego, “so much copper wiring has been stolen from eight different city parks, that soccer teams can't practice because the field lights stopped working.” Copper theft such as this is also common in Hawaii. If pennies are eliminated, hoarded pennies will be melted and converted into copper, selling them for about three times the value of one cent. This unique business opportunity would open up yet another avenue of business in an everstruggling economy. A visit to eBay convinces anyone that penny hoarding might not be as obscure as it sounds. Surprising sales of $10 in pennies
pre-1982 are selling for $20. Although not everyone is on board, an elimination of the penny would save America money and rid us from an unappealing currency. A senior in finance from Virginia, Jordan Tesimale, boldly stated, “The worth of the penny isn’t in its monetary value, but in its value as a medium of exchange.” He said we can’t value the penny as just one cent, but value it by how often we use it.”
-J e ff McLe od
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Money Matter$ Money management
advice from Business Professors
$
"Bob" tudent, Bob, is 20 years old and decides to start saving. The plan will call for $3 a day, every day till retirement at age 65. His $3 a day = $1095 a year, and an average growth rate of 12 percent (S&P 500) for Age: 20 45 years compounded annually, that totals $1,487,262. "The Other Guy" If Bob waits until he is 25 years old, to start saving the same amount per day the total at age 65 is $839,965. Five years of delay cost Bob almost $600,000. The objective of this article is not to Age: 25 give investment advice, but to simply illustrate the time value of money and the importance of setting goals and making plans. When it comes to financial decisions, Erin Fredrick, an associate professor in the School of Business, said, “I don’t consider myself to be the smartest person. I don’t know any magical secret, but as for myself, I can put in the time and make my personal finances a priority.” Finances can be managed simply by putting in the time to make smart decisions. If students are wise with their money, they may eventually enjoy financial freedom.
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How to make smart financial decisions and secure a successful future
College is the time to start making big life decisions. Students ask questions like the following: What do I study? Where do I go for an internship? Where do I plan on getting a job? However, an even more important decision is, “How do I manage my money?” Many people are uninformed about money, bank accounts, budgets, savings, bank fees, investments, and how to buy a house. To be a financially sound and successful person later in life, a solid understanding of money is vital. In an interview with John Taylor, an associate professor in the School of Business and instructor of the Personal and Family Financial Management class (IDS 3180), Taylor shared some key advice for all students should heed regardless of their level in school or field of study. Debt is not a good decision
Taylor admonishes students to avoid unnecessary debt. Students have debt from student loans, but Taylor cautions students to 8
Ke Alaka‘i
Save
$3/day
> =
$1,487,262
Age: 65 Save
$3/day
> = Age: 65
$839,965
)Five years of delay cost "The Other Guy" almost $600,000.
avoid maxing out credit cards or going into debt in order to purchase luxury items such as a new car or flat screen TV. “The biggest challenge that I see is how to manage credit cards. They are so easy to get and the solicitations are endless. It is so incredibly easy to use and buy things and easy to borrow money (cash advance) from the credit card company, and the interest rates are bad. It is a horrendously stupid decision,” said Taylor. Credit cards may look and feel like cheap free money to some people because of low introductory rates and low monthly payments sometimes close to $25. However, once teaser rates expire the cost of debt becomes very clear. For example, a credit card with a balance of $3,000 at a contract rate of 19.99 percent will end up costing the debtor, after making the minimum monthly payments, $6,098 and take over 12 years to finish paying the card off. “Use a credit card faithfully, with fidelity,” said Taylor, “Don’t buy anything unless you have the money for it. That may not always be possible. There are emergencies, but generally speaking if you pay the credit card off monthly, there will be no late fees, no interest, no penalties, and you will help build a good credit history and hopefully buy a home at the most favorable rate. If your credit history stinks because you can’t manage money, then you are going to pay very high interest rates or be told ‘No’.” Fredrick shared her philosophy. “I am not 100 percent against debt; it can be a financial tool if used correctly. Any time you use debt, it needs to be part of a plan, or in the case of an emergency, not to buy gifts on Christmas,” said Fredrick. When using debt, Fredrick asked, “Do you understand how much that is costing you? It is important to look at numbers for what they are and not just to talk about like they are nickels when they are really the size of a man hole cover.” Unnecessary debt is bad, and should be avoided, but debt in the right
places can also be taken to an extreme. College tuition, cars, and houses often require students to borrow money, but this debt can become abused. “A good way to test if you are borrowing too much,” said Fredrick, “is if you had the money in your bank account, no loans involved, would you write the check?”
Fredrick’s
1
Decide what you want. Deciding what you want establishes what is important to you. It expresses your core values and beliefs. What is truly important?
2
Evaluate your financial health. If you do not know where you are, how can you determine how to get to where you need to be?
3
Define your personal and financial goals. Once you know what is important to you and where you are financially, it is critical to define your personal goals. You will achieve what you set your mind to; you will hit what you aim for; you will accomplish the goals that are important to you. Write your goals down. Attach a cost to each goal in terms of money and effort. Be S.M.A.R.T: Specific, measurable, achievable, reportable, and time-bound. Then share them with others.
4
Develop a plan of action. It should be flexible – be able to change as your life does. Liquid – a portion should convert with ease into cash. Tax efficient – pay Uncle Sam all that it owed and not a penny more. Develop a budget and use it wisely. Remember that “debt is the enemy to growth.”
5
Implement your plan. Now that you have a plan, use it! Use common sense and moderation, set wise goals and work towards them each day. Use wisdom in your plan and stay positive. Remember that your plan has a goal to keep your eyes on, not a stick to beat yourself with. Stay on track after detours; remember good things come to those who hang in there.
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Revise the plan if necessary. Revision in an important part of your plan, review your goals annually at minimum and make sure your plans still matches you goals.
Before spending your money, save your money
“Everyone, either students or otherwise, needs to set up a 3-6 month emergency fund for surprises, to take care of medical bills, major car repair, or other emergencies,” he said. It may not be possible for many students, but students should begin saving as soon as student loans are paid off. “One thing I try to do in my class is to get students to start to plan for the rest of their lives, which means you can have a down payment on a house when the time is right, or send future children to school or on a mission, otherwise you will be buried by debt and be unable,” said Taylor. Make a budget
“Many students don’t have a lot of money going in or out right now,” said Taylor. “But I make my students track every penny that they spend for one month, and you would be surprised how much money went into trips to the vending machine and Chevron late at night.” Making a budget is not just tracking expenses. It is a tool to help control spending and live within one’s means. Money does not need to get too tight. Debt can be avoided. Budgets help people differentiate between wants and needs. Taylor said, “I try to get my students to understand the difference: do you really need the big screen TV? Do you really need to have everything that your parents might have taken 20 years to get?” Goals and plans must be in place to keep finances in order.
Financial Plan:
- So urce: BYUH Bus ines s P r ofes s or Er in Fr ed r ick
- matth ew bleD so e
October 11, 2012
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Smart Shopping Locally Highlighting locally known hot spots for cheap food and goods If students are hoping to save time and money, they need look no further than here in Laie. From groceries to clothes, there are several options for smart shopping. Bulk retailers like Costco and low-priced supercenters such as Walmart offer smart solutions for those on a budget. But it is not always possible to make the 30-mile trek to town on a regular basis. Here are some local options to save a few bucks: The Give and Take:
If you are new to BYUH, you might have noticed several large plastic boxes outside of the hales throughout campus. The Give and Take boxes are receptacles for dropping off anything students are no longer using. Volunteers sort through donations and organize them in buildings located behind the tennis courts. During certain days of the month announced in the BYUH Student Bulletin, the Give and Take center is open for business. If you are a student, you can browse the goods and take home a set amount of items, free of charge. The Give and Take is a great place to look for hangers, clothes, furniture, and other things you might need for your dorm or apartment. Before you drive all the way to Walmart, check out the Give and Take first. Sell Your Stuff at BYUH:
This Facebook group is open to all students and even some community members. It is the perfect place to find lower-priced textbooks or anything random you’re looking for. Search the page for services from other students, or post about an item you need. Student-to-student buying and selling allows for bargaining and trades that you could not get anywhere else.
Farmer’s Market:
On Aloha Fridays, twice a month, the Aloha Center hosts BYUH’s own Farmer’s Market. The market offers bargain prices on fruits, vegetables, meats, and Asian groceries. Instead of going all the 10
Ke Alaka‘i
Locally grown produce is for sale at the Farmer’s Market. Photos by Matt McDonald
way to Chinatown, you can find the items you need here on campus for the same price.
Cackle Fresh:
Dairy products can be especially expensive on the island. Cackle Fresh, located just past Hukilau Beach, sells the cheapest eggs on the North Shore. It also sells its eggs at the BYUH Farmer’s Market if you cannot make it to the store. -AMY KUNIHIRO
All New
Online shopping takes over
ADD TO CART
People weigh convenience with price and availability Being on an island far removed from sources of imported goods, shopping can either turn to being more local or it could also lead one to shopping online. According to Blaze Dream, a global web solution company, the “number of people shopping online has increased to 60% in the past two years, with nearly nine out of 10 (more than 85%) of the world’s web users logging on to Internet to buy.” With growing technological advancements and the convenience of participating in this new “electronic commerce” from your own home, it is easier than ever to find what you need online. Elizabeth Champney, a senior in ICS from Illinois, said she does most of her shopping online while at school. “It’s more for convenience,” she said. “For clothes [in Laie], it’s all small businesses so it’s more expensive…there’s nothing cheap and good unless you go all the way to the other side of the island.”
how it will fit, and if I have to return anything, it is just so much more of a hassle. It is a lot less of a hassle to go shop in person.” Echoing this idea, Lisa Thompson, a senior in psychology from Texas, shared that while “shopping online is convenient, it takes away the fun of finding a really good deal or an item at random, so I usually only shop online when I have something specific in mind that I want to buy.”
shipping on millions of items” after making an account with your school email. For those aware of the disadvantages of underlying shipping costs, especially here in Hawaii, these promotions truly target those users’
The bookstore is too “expensive, [so] I buy my books online. ”
- Emily Smithson
need for cheap shipping while giving them comparative prices to help them participate in more online shopping. Sites like bookbyte, coursesmart, and chegg offer students the option of renting textbooks to avoid the hassle of reselling at the end of the semester. eBay brings its users in by allowing shoppers to bid on items in an auction format to avoid impulse buys, while also giving the option of a “buy it now” price for instant purchases. Most stores are realizing that the modern shopper However, when it comes to buying textbooks, will utilize both in-store shopping, as well [The] number of people as online and are moving to make the two online shopping can begin to have more of shopping online has almost interchangeable. According to CNN an appeal. “The bookstore is too expensive, increased to 60% in the past two years, with nearly [so] I buy my books online,” Smithson con- Money, Black Friday stores like Best Buy are fessed, noting that Amazon and eBay are her now offering the same discounts online as in nine out of 10 (more than store, allowing shoppers to avoid the crowds retailers of choice. One advantage to shop85%) of the world’s web ping for textbooks online, Elizabeth notes, is and long lines in favor of shopping in the users logging on to that she can compare prices. “I usually start comfort of their own homes. Internet to buy. Online shopping is becoming a with bookbyte, but Amazon is also an op-Blaze Dream norm in our modern technological age, and tion” as prices continue to rise, more shoppers may When shopping for books, price Online shopping has many negative aspects as well, one of which being that shop- can play a big part on where students choose be persuaded to indulge in these companies’ pers cannot tangibly view their items. Emily to purchase their textbooks and lead them to- online promotions. wards online shopping. Many companies are Smithson, a senior in political science from -SYDNEY ODELL realizing this trend and banking on students’ California, said she does not care much for thrifty ways. Amazon now has the exclusive online shopping. “I prefer to do my shopnew “student” account that gives “shipping ping in person so I know how it fits,” she benefits free for six months and free two-day remarked. “If I shop online, I have no idea
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October 11, 2012
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Desire for Peace
13 Colonies
Preparedness for war The “all seeing eye” of God
Secrets of the Dollar Bill: What we can learn from the core of U.S. currency
Symbols on the American dollar bill can be foreign to U.S. students and international students alike. Whatever people think they see within the dollar, most symbols date back to America’s founding fathers. “The dollar bill can basically tell you the principles and heritage of the American people,” said Ryan Oldroyd, a political science major from Texas. According to the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia Website, the front seal on the dollar bill is also the president’s seal; it has an eagle, which symbolizes courage and strength. The number 13 is repeated throughout this part of the seal. Within the eagle’s talons, it grips 13 arrows in the right claw and 13 olive branches in the left claw. The eagle’s head faces towards the olive branch illustrating America’s desire for peace, while the arrows symbolize America’s preparedness for war. The American shield floats with 13 stripes, but no stars. The placement of the stripes is also contrary to the original American flag. The shield is not fastened to the eagle, but spread across in front of it, as 12
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if held by the unseen hand of God. “In God we trust” remains front and center on the dollar bill. “I like how the dollar bill says in God we trust,” said Jessica Sahlin, an EXS major and sophomore from Sweden. “Everyone in the States is more Christian than people back home. People in Sweden would never put such a phrase on our currency,” said Sahlin. “I love having God involved in our American heritage,” said Josh Packard, a freshman going into pharmaceuticals from Utah. “Even for those who don’t believe, it’s believing in a power that is bigger than ourselves,” said Packer. In the eagle’s beak there is a scroll, representing the proclamation of liberty and freedom, and justice for all. On the back of the dollar bill is the American Seal front and back. The reverse side of the seal is the pyramid made of 13 steps representing the first 13 colonies. Benjamin Franklin chose the pyramid because he thought it was a strong symbol for a firm foundation. The pyramid however remains without a cap, because at that time America had an unfinished government. The words
“Nuvus Ordo Seclorum” above the pyramid translates into “New Order of Ages.” Charles Statesman helped create the seal. He thought the Latin term helped signify “The new American Era.” At the bottom of the pyramid is a roman numeral representing the year 1776. This was the year the constitution was signed. The eye signifies God, “the all seeing eye.” The Latin motto “E Pluribus Unum” means “One from Many” or “Out of many, One.” It represents the unity between all 50 States of America as well as the melting pot of ethnicities within America. People wonder about what that symbols in the vast web around the border of the front of the dollar bill. There is a spot in the right corner where some argue there is an owl while others say it is a spider. It has been argued that it is just part of the design to keep from counterfeit bills. Some believe it is an old Masonic symbol. The symbols and images within the dollar bill remain open to interpretation.
-ALEC BA RNEY
Millers say farewell to Oahu as they retire Couple leaves BYU-Hawaii after 34 and 23 years of service BYU-Hawaii has had two individuals help shape important aspects of this university for over 34 years. Dr. Dwight Miller and his wife, Karen Miller, have retired after 34 and 23 years respectively of working at the university. The couple arrived in Laie in 1978 after Dr. Miller was offered a job to help the instructional technology and support, and after being interviewed in an airport between flights. Two and a half weeks later, the Millers arrived in Hawaii. Karen Miller related, “We intended to experience Hawaii for just two or three years but ended up staying and raising our family here because we felt like this is where we should be.” She said of the community, “Laie is a great place to raise a family. We have loved the wards we have lived in and the many friends we have made.” Upon arriving, Dwight Miller received the charge to “transform the academic instructional support services and to build the instructional technology resource base of the university.” Fulfilling this charge, he helped move the university from the film, filmstrip, and overhead transparency based media systems to video, and eventually digital based instructional support. Because of these advances, media services, electronic support services, television production, cable distribution systems, media production services and sound stage and lighting services were created. Returning from his doctoral studies years later, Miller worked closely with Dr. Ed Jensen to develop the instructional and information support (IIS) coursework, which later becoming the IDD program. Together they later opened the first academic computing labs on campus. As Director of Academic Computing he was able to work with Dr. Bret Ellis and develop the Chief information Officer approach at the administrative level. Upon his arrival at the BYUH campus, Miller taught photography classes on the side for 27 years. For the last seven years, he has worked as a professor of Fine arts and has been an administrator over the Art Department until the day of his retirement. Karen Miller served as an academic advisor and as an adjunct faculty in the English Department teaching English composition and research for the last 20 years. Her love for this campus is apparent as she said, “I love the diversity of this student body. I enjoy participating in class discussions with students form different backgrounds, since each one has a unique perspective.”
Above: Dwight and Karen Miller pose with their daughter, Leilani Miller, shortly after her graduation from BYU-Hawaii. Photo by University Communications
The youngest of the seven Miller children, Leilani, a BYUH graduate, said she has been inspired by both her parents’ work. She decided to go into visual communication because “it pulls both the arts and language arts together.” Leilani proudly spoke of her parents and the impact that they had on her as she said, “They have always been really supportive, never pushed me, but they just encouraged me to figure out things for myself.” She said they supported and went to every concert she ever played in while attending school. The hard work and dedication to the university shone through for the Miller children. Leilani spoke of her parents’ dedication, saying, “They loved it here and believed in the university, and I see that even today.” After their 34 years of hard work, Dwight and Karen Miller will be moving to Lehi, Utah. They plan to work in the temple, visit children and grandchildren, and serve a mission together. They hope to travel and find other photographic opportunities. The love and belief in the university is apparent as they look to continue inspiring BYUH students. Dwight Miller said he hoped the students would “build your own vision for your lives by staying close to the gospel of Jesus Christ and his plans for your unique destiny.” Karen Miller related, “Enjoy your short time at BYUHawaii, take full advantage of all the opportunities to learn and serve, and cherish the friends that you make here. These experiences will make a profound difference in your life. Much of what you learn here will not be in the classroom. Use all of your experiences to enrich your life and become a credit to the university. You are in charge of your life.”
-J EFF MCLEO D
October 11, 2012
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Gym Music Survey: Hawaiian music leaves gym attendees unsatisfied After complaints about inappropriate lyrics, the BYU-Hawaii fitness center now plays strictly Hawaiian music, however, 100 percent of 20 students surveyed said they wanted the music changed back. The change has led to an increase of complaints and negative feelings from students towards the gym. Some people have even requested the music be turned off completely, according to weight room trainers and Coach Anthony Clah. “There are people who come into the gym such as students and administration and some realize the music has inappropriate lyrics. What we want to do is prevent uncomfortable situations,” said Clah. Complaints about the music being inappropriate have happened in the past. Before the weight room obtained Internet access, the radio was often played over the speakers. But due to the inability to control what was being played or discussed over the radio, a decision was made to install Internet access, so music that was being played could be monitored and controlled, described Clah. “I guess some inappropriate songs slipped by and that is why now we now play strictly Hawaiian,” said Clah. A poll was taken as students entered the gym. They had the options to vote, “Yes they liked the change in music; I do not care; or No they should change the music back.” From the students polled, 20 out of 20 voted no, they wished the music being played would change back. “It’s not gym appropriate at all,” said Jessica Sahlin, sophomore and EXS major from Sweden, when asked about the Hawaiian music. “It doesn’t motivate you.” Students surveyed on campus feel the weight room enviroment does not coincide with Hawaiian music. Clah confirmed that iPods are still allowed as well as cell phones as long as they are used for music. He also emphasized the importance of having the spirit and body connected and dwelling within each other.
-A lec Barn ey
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Student works out in the gym. Photo by Matt McDonald
FOOD FEST! Food Fest canceled for Health Code violations Guidelines for sanitation and safety have been steadily and gradually more enforced on clubs at Food Fest, said David Lucero, director of Student Leadership and Honor. Due to a failure to meet sanitation guidelines, Food Fest will not be held this semester. Every year, said Lucero, the City and County of Honolulu has been more resistant to give food permits because granting a food handler’s permit creates a big risk for both BYUHawaii and the County of Honolulu. He added, “Due to the great reputation of BYU-Hawaii’s Food Services, they have been able to get a permit every time.” Clubs encounter a challenge when they need to meet all of the sanitation guidelines. Some of those challenges include having prepared and trained people to handle the foods being sold. Every club is required to have trained individuals who prepare and handle the food in a clean and safe area. BYUHSA plays a significant role in preparing clubs to be able to efficiently prepare and handle food. Every club has members who attend training in order to be well informed and well prepared to meet sanitation guidelines for this event. However, some crucial guidelines were not met in the previous Food Fest, which has forced Food Services to cancel Food Fest for the remaining year.
Some of the sanitation guidelines include the following: Keeping the food at safe temperatures, wearing gloves and hair nets, having washing stations close enough to the booths and maintaining clean areas. Lucero stated, “There has never been wide spread sickness; no one has complained. But we still need to follow guidelines because of the risk.” In an interview with Bae Aumua, coordinator advisor for clubs, she shared, “A lot of students don’t take this seriously. I hope that they realize next time that we do Food Fest what can happen when they take off hair nets. Hopefully they learn that they have to keep it up.” Although BYUH will not have the opportunity to experience Food Fest this semester, the leaders of the clubs and organizations at BYUHSA are working hard in order to give students the best cultural experience that they can. Krystelle Dimaya, junior vice president of clubs and organizations at BYUHSA, said, “As a V.P., I’ve learned from the past and from that experience. I’m trying my best to organize an event with my team to run [something] that will be a success for all the clubs.” Yuto Inamori, junior vice president of clubs and organizations who works alongside Dimaya, wants to serve students through his leadership position. Dimaya and Inamori are in the process of planning creative ways for clubs to raise the money they need for their activities. Some of these activities include combined dances, presentation of talents, Performance Series events and Christmas Around the World. Christmas Around the World will be held in December and allow students to get culturally knowledgeable with Christmas through all cultures. Lucero would like BYUH students to know, “The BYUHSA officers were just as sad as any student about not having Food Fest this semester. But I am so excited to see what creative ways they will come up with to allow clubs to get funds for their programs, and to see how this
new way of sharing cultures will turn out.” He added, “If all goes well, we should have Food Fest again by Summer of 2013.” -Gise lle Ramire z
Photos from Summer Semester’s Food Fest held in the Little Circle. Photos by Bart Jolley and Mei Yin October 11, 2012
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