April 11, 2013

ESTABLISHED ESTABLISHED 1921 1921 April 27, 11, 2012 2013 September Volume Volume91, 91,Issue Issue39 7

www.laloyolan.com Your Home. Your Voice. Your News. loyola marymount university

Students advocate for sustainability University experiences blackout DPS works to figure out why the power went out at LMU and in the surrounding area.

By Allison Croley and Zaneta Pereira Loyolan Staff

Chris Delgado | Loyolan

Senior film production major Alex Salazar, freshman liberal arts undeclared major Jacob Stuivenvolt Allen and freshman art history major Ana Engstrom (left to right) carried water between St. Rob’s and Von der Ahe building during Convo on Tuesday, April 9 to simulate the journey many students make every day around the world. This was during the JerryCan March as part of Environmental Week.

Two service orgs and the club ECO Students team up to promote environmental causes.

By Leslie Irwin Photo Editor

To promote individual action and increase sustainability awareness, students are presenting a variety of events on campus as part of Environmental Awareness Week.

The Ignatians and Espérer service organizations teamed up with the club ECO Students to plan documentary screenings, discussions, speakers and a talent night all promoting sustainability and waterrelated social justice issues in the Los Angeles area and in underprivileged countries.

Ignatians is selling reusable water bottles throughout the week to promote sustainable practices and to fundraise for RISE International, an organization in Angola that builds primary schools and funds children’s education. According to Genna Bloombecker, a sophomore dance major and Ignatians member, Ignatians chose the program as its special project for the year in an effort to rebuild the country’s education system after its civil war stretching from 1975 to 2002.

Emmeline Weinert, a junior political science and dance double major and

FEATURED FESTIVALS Loyolan staff offer their insights into the various music festivals on the horizon.

A&E, 8-9 Bluff,Pages Page 12

Ignatians chair for social justice and reflection, commented on the situation in Angola. “A lot of kids have to walk several miles every day to bring clean water to their family, and often it’s not even clean water. These are the types of things that schools have to combat to even get students into their classrooms.”

The April 9 JerryCan March, named for the jugs that are used to transport gallons of water, simulated the journey many would-be students around the world make every day. Participants carried a full water bucket 50 yards down the path between St. Rob’s and the Von der Ahe building, often struggling with the load.

“This is a small amount [that we can do to] be in solidarity with others and think about their situation,” said Yoni Carnice, a sophomore environmental science major and Ignations member. “This is nothing compared to the realities around the world.”

Instead of viewing sustainability and education as separate issues, the organizations are “trying to connect environmental problems to the education system … to show how everything is connected,” according to Bloombecker, who is also the co-president of the ECO Students club.

Brian Treanor, associate professor of philosophy and director of the

Cesar Chavez Sponsored by Campus Ministry, Chicano Latino Student Services and Students for Labor and Economic Justice, the life of Cesar Chavez was celebrated on Tuesday, April 9 in Sacred Heart Chapel. Chavez, an influential Latino labor leader and civil rights activist, lived from 1927 until 1993. Students, faculty and staff gathered to honor Chavez’s legacy and attend a workers appreciation lunch after the service.

Classifieds.............................4 Opinion.........................6 A&E................................8 Nightlife...............................12 Sports.............................16 The next issue of the Loyolan will be printed on April 15, 2013.

See Outage | Page 5

University celebrates the life of

"I think the Cesar Chavez Mass and workers appreciation luncheon is a great event because it brings [together] the students and workers, who normally don’t get to have any meaningful interactions with each other."

– Charles Riley, sophomore economics major and asst. Business manager for the Loyolan

"LMU campus workers serve us every day. Today we served them, but it’s not about service. It’s about being one."

– Nestor Pimienta, senior political science and urban studies double major

Information compiled by Ali Swenson and Sonja Bistranin, Loyolan Staff; Photo: Associated Press; Graphic: Mercedes Pericas | Loyolan

See Environment | Page 5

Index

A problem with the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power caused a two-hour campus-wide power outage on Monday, April 8, according to the Department of Public Safety (DPS).

“I was on my way to the elevator … when a loud boom resounded and the power went out,” said Lauren Kisich, a sophomore animation major.

The outage began around 6:30 p.m. and lasted until about 8:35 p.m. Around 7:02 p.m., the LMU Emergency Alert System sent a message to the community stating that the outage was due to winds. By 7:45 p.m., DPS confirmed to the Loyolan that the outage was in fact due to a “city problem,” and that DPS was coordinating with L.A. Department of Water and Power to get its systems “up and running” so that LMU could do the same.

At the time of the Loyolan’s print deadline, DPS Chief Hampton Cantrell said that DPS was still conferring with the Bureau of Water and Power (BWP), but the true reason behind the outage remains unknown. He did, however, confirm that it was “wind-related.”

All students, faculty and staff on campus were affected by the outage. According to a separate message sent out by the LMU Emergency Alert System at 7:16 p.m., classes were canceled for the evening.

The emergency lights in U-Hall did not turn on, which caused concern among some people.

Cantrell said that the generator in U-Hall failed for an unknown reason. DPS, Facilities Management and the ITS Department are all looking into the cause of the generator’s

THURS

FRI

67˚ - 56˚

64˚ - 57˚

SAT

SUN

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OUT ON THE TOWN Read about playing hard to get and the top places to watch sports games in L.A. in the Loyolan’s Nightlife section.

Nightlife, Page 12

News

April 11, 2013 Page 2

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DPS chief talks about his transition to LMU implement a dismount zone between U-Hall and the Lair. He never anticipated the amount of backlash he received from students, especially skateboarders. But after a demonstration march down the Palm Walk and discussions between angry students and DPS, Cantrell realized that managing LMU’s safety service was very different from running Inglewood’s police department. Although arguably overly passionate about certain issues, LMU students want to “get it right,” Cantrell said.

Cantrell likes many things about LMU, such as the fact that the school is filled with “smart and talented” students and faculty.

and implementing them, Cantrell admitted he had to learn patience.

When asked if the slow process of Chief Hampton Cantrell discussion and collaboration were beneficial to LMU’s community, he came to LMU after many hesitantly agreed.

He continued to explain that the years on the police reason behind the slow process is the University’s desire to come up

By Allison Croley with protocol that is “as right as News Editor [they] can make it.” According to Cantrell, this is where the value As he stepped through the wideof getting a variety of perspectives open door of a house in Inglewood, comes into play.

Hampton Cantrell, then an “Even though we think what we’re Inglewood Police Department (IPD) doing is right, we want people to feel officer, expected to find chaos and and understand that it is right,” he disorientation – something that said. “It took some time for me to signified a break-in or robbery. embrace that, but now I really do Instead, he found almost understand it.” nothing. No furniture, no A tall man with a deep shuffled cabinets, no emptied voice, Cantrell is a strong safe, nothing but several “I really do care that students presence in the DPS office. grocery bags sitting in the Vogel, a sophomore middle of an empty room. To his are treated well and that my Sarah accounting major, works in surprise, when he walked up to the DPS lobby and said she the bags and peered inside, he officers act professionally.” enjoys working with Cantrell. saw cash – wads of 20, 50 and “He is so kind and really 100 dollar bills. appreciates the student This, Cantrell explained, was the first time he witnessed He said he admires how most of assistants,” she said. “It’s a privilege the volume of money circulating the community is passionate and working for him.”

However, most students don’t see through the drug industry. He willing to do the right thing.

This, however, was also an him except when in trouble, or hear speculated that it is the reason there adjustment for him. In a municipal of him except when a new policy is still a drug problem today.

“Criminals don’t really want to setting, policies need to be executed is implemented. Because of this, quickly and efficiently. Cantrell Cantrell feels that students don’t change their lives,” he said.

Two decades later, Cantrell explained that this doesn’t leave truly know him or other officers and was hired as LMU’s Department much time for discussion or administrators at DPS. “I wish they knew that we are of Public Safety (DPS) chief. He collaboration when deciding on and nice people,” Cantrell said about the went from arresting drug dealers, implementing polices.

On the contrary, in light of a desire student population. “I really do care rioters and burglars to dealing with intoxicated college students to do what is right, LMU values that students are treated well and and confiscating pellet guns. Yet, discussion and collaboration. He that my officers act professionally.”

DPS Assistant Chief Patricia according to Cantrell, he doesn’t explained that there is a need to talk to a number of people before making Coffelt agreed, saying that Cantrell’s regret his decision. goal – along with the DPS goal – is “There are students who have a decision about anything.

“As a result, it does take a longer to uphold the University’s mission messed up, but there seems to be a general willingness to do better,” he time to implement a policy or idea,” by supporting students.

“Our goal is to always care for the said. “You don’t really find that in Cantrell said.

With these longer periods students,” Coffelt said. “Supporting police work.”

In 2010, Cantrell helped between coming up with policies our students is of great importance.”

NEWS FEATURE

Hampton Cantrell

After working with the Inglewood Police Department for years, Hampton Cantrell was hired as LMU’s DPS chief in 2008.

Born and raised in Berkeley, Calif., Cantrell earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in political science at UC Irvine. He admitted that, at one point, he seemed an unlikely candidate for work in the security sector. As an undergraduate, Cantrell wanted to get a Ph.D. in political science and become a professor.

“I did a complete 180,” he said.

Regardless, Cantrell said he enjoyed his time in law enforcement, and is glad he is now at LMU. Again, he emphasized that his background in the police force has given him a great appreciation for the LMU

community.

When investigating the bags of cash left in the house in Inglewood, Cantrell found that narcotic dealers were using the house as a storage place for their profits. He surmised that the dealers were forced to evacuate the house in a hurry, leaving the cash behind without worry.

While reflecting back on this experience, Cantrell paused, then said, “If you asked me the difference between working for the police department and working here, it’s that LMU really does care,” he said.

“I like that,” he added.

News

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April 11, 2013 Page 3

Student voice ‘important’ in hiring process at LMU Despite their approval rating, professors endure multiple steps before hire.

By Sonja Bistranin Asst. News Editor

As registration proceeds and class evaluations approach, students have the chance to reflect upon their professors at LMU. According to LMU’s website, there are currently 534 full-time faculty members employed on campus.

With so many positions, it would appear that gaining employment at LMU would be uncomplicated. However, many LMU students are unaware of the process their professors go through to be hired.

“I feel like it wouldn’t be insanely different from any other job,” said Luke Braun, a senior film production major.

“I think LMU professors are kind of hit and miss. With some professors, I learn more in one class than I’ve learned in all of college.

Some professors seem extraordinarily incompetent.”

While some may receive mixed reviews, the process of hiring professors at LMU is an extensive procedure.

Richard Plumb, dean of the Seaver College of Science and Engineering, explained that the hiring process starts with a need for a new professor.

“Either a vacancy occurs in one of the departments, or a new position is created through the University’s budget process,” he said.

When a position opens, the college starts by compiling a request for the Provost’s Office. The request must provide reasons why the department wants to fill the position, such as new course opportunities, student learning and student experiences.

According to Dennis Draper, dean of the College of Business Administration, the Provost’s Office decides

if the request will proceed to the next step.

“The request is … granted, postponed, returned for more information or rejected,” Draper said. “If rejected for the upcoming year, it can certainly be requested again in the future if it continues to be warranted.”

If the provost approves the request, a search committee is selected to review potential professors.

Plumb explained that search committee members vary. “For small departments, the whole department might serve as the search committee, but with larger departments, a search committee consisting of four faculty members is fairly typical,” he said.

According to Shane Martin, dean of the School of Education and dean of graduate studies, search committee members look for multiple qualities in a potential professor, including “strong content knowledge, evidence of strong teaching ability, evidence of strong scholarship,research, creative works, evidence that the candidate supports and can contribute to the mission of LMU.” After the search committee decides which candidates to interview, the top three potential professors are invited onto campus. The on-campus meeting includes standard interviews with the search committee and multiple introductions, according to Plumb.

“The on-campus interviews typically last two days each and candidates have the opportunity to meet everyone in the department, the dean’s office and students from the department,” Plumb said.

Students often have the chance to discuss their thoughts on the candidates during the hiring process.

According to Draper, the candidate is expected “to give a presentation, which anyone can attend, and usually teach a class session with one or more faculty present along,

of course, with the students.”

Grace Goodwin, a senior dance major, said that the interview process is “competitive and meticulous.”

“It allows select students to sit in on the hiring process,” said Goodwin of the dance department. “It takes into account what the students think about potential professors, which I think is really unique because, after all, we’re the ones learning from them.”

Plumb emphasized that students’ opinions are taken into account, saying, “Student feedback is very important.”

Draper also said that a candidate needs to make students a priority. “The ‘student focus’ of the faculty candidate is important.

We want faculty to put the education of the students first.”

After the on-campus interview, the process continues.

“The department then lists the strengths and any potential shortcomings of the candidates and presents their findings to the dean,” Plumb explained.

Finally, in the last step of the process, the dean of the college takes the recommendation from the search committee.

The dean, with the provost’s permission, extends an offer to the potential candidate.

After a process that can last up to six months, LMU may finally expand its staff.

DO YOU WANT TO WRITE FOR

NEWS? CONTACT

Allison Croley

acroley@theloyolan.com

Ali Swenson | Loyolan

Rosenthal does not think he was a funny kid. Instead, he says his humor did not develop until well into his authorship.

11 BURNING QUESTIONS with a published professor

Thisissue,Asst.NewsEditorAliSwensonsitsdownwithLMU english Professor Chuck Rosenthal to discuss his career as an author and how he developed his sense of humor.

1. Why did you decide to become a professor?

I thought I wanted to be one early on. I got two degrees in philosophy, and then at SUNY [State University of New York] Buffalo I was going for my Ph.D., and they wouldn’t let me do my dissertation on animal cognition.

So I went back into the work force. I collected garbage, and I didn’t like that so much because all I did was go to work and then get drunk and then go to work. So I started writing and I decided to go to writing school, and everybody said, “You’re crazy. You can’t do anything with a master’s in writing.” But I did.

2. Your wife, Gail Wronsky, is another professor in the English department and a published poet. How did you meet?

We met in Utah, in Salt Lake City, in the graduate program there. We were kind of like, you know, Salt Lake City, there wasn’t a lot of choice. We were there for each other. We hid out together.

3. What brought you to LMU in particular?

Los Angeles. Gail and I were always going to go to Los Angeles, no matter what. So we got jobs.

4. You’ve written and published several books. Which book are you most proud of, and why?

It’s always my most recent one. There’s maybe 20 books I’ve written and published now. I’ve got another one coming out next year. And I have one that just came out, finally, on animal cognition. My memoir, which deals with my sexual abuse as a teenager, is probably the story that’s helped most people.

5. What do you think is your best-written book?

I don’t know. “Loop’s End” is a really good book, I think. Maybe “Loop’s End.” That was my third published novel and the third book of the Loop Trilogy.

6. If you were to give one piece of advice to a prospective author, what would it be?

Write every day. Read a lot. But that’s two.

7. Your daughter is a musician who lives in Australia. How did that come about?

She’s a performance artist, technically. She’d been in several bands here, and she came in touch with a good friend of an Australian, and his father is the producer for the Yeah Yeah Yeahs. He became their producer, but they never really cracked it big. And so she left that band and some of those kids she met in Australia said, “Why don’t you come to Australia?” She was involved with the Cozy Castle warehouse here, where artists are living in a warehouse. … So she said, “Well, I’m going to go to Australia and start my own warehouse in Sydney.” That lasted for a little more than a year.

Some bikers came and threatened to kill them all, so she had to leave that warehouse.

8. What exactly happened with the bikers?

I don’t know. They said that they were making too much noise. I think the landlord wanted to use the warehouse for something else, and he hired these kids.

9. Do you have a favorite book?

Too many. I was probably turned on to writing by Kerouac’s “On the Road,” but that’s not my favorite Kerouac book. “Doctor Sax” is my favorite Kerouac book. I read a lot of Roberto Bolaño now. I think “Distant Star” is my favorite of his books.

10. How do you think you became funny?

I don’t know when it happened. When I started “Loop’s Progress” ... I just started being funny. I was funny in the classroom, I guess. ... I’d put the table in front of the door, get up and jump on the table and say I wouldn’t let them leave and do funny stuff like that.

11. What’s your favorite place that you’ve traveled?

Well, Big Sur is my favorite place, I think. But I loved India, and I like Rome and London. We taught in London in the fall of 2011.

To read the extended version of “11 Burning Questions,” visit the News section of laloyolan.com.

News

April 11, 2013 Page 4

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Event connects climate change to social justice Environment from Page 1 environmental studies program, will speak at an an event today at Convo about climate change as a social justice issue. The presentation

aimed to connect various issues presented throughout the week and illustrate the importance of action in the community.

Daniela Corona, sophomore

OVERHEARD

@ LMU

THIS WEEK’S SUBMISSION

political science major and president of Espérer service organization, said she believes the events will inspire the community.

“You can’t be empowered if you don’t know what you’re working toward. … Once you know about this, you’re going to feel the need to do something,” she said.

Derek Fortney, a junior applied

information management systems major and the Ignatians service organization’s chair of special projects, calls for a more environmentally friendly way of life. “Accepting a push towards living a more sustainable lifestyle is something that needs to be practiced on a more common level, he said. “It takes going the next

step ... and making a difference.”

Bloombecker said she hopes that actions now will have a lasting impact on the community outside of LMU. “As LMU students … we’re going to take what we’ve learned with us. [I hope we] can really make a difference by … making it the norm of caring and doing things with the environment in mind.”

M unch M ARKET The new convenience store outside the Lair has sparked reactions among LMU students. Here is what they have to say.

Ashley Warren

Freshman, film production major “I really appreciate it when the Lair is really crowded, and I can get fresh food and gluten-free food. Even though it’s a little more expensive, I appreciate the options.”

Brendan Martin

Sophomore, business management major “They’re trying too hard to sell foods that are healthy, and as a result, in my opinion, nothing is that appealing to eat.

They could get better healthy food.”

Taylor Tarantino

Sophomore, business marketing major “Not only is it convenient, but it’s a healthy choice for when you’re on the move.”

Bridget Monroe

Freshman, marketing major “I really like it. I like how they have fresh fruit and healthier options for us on campus.”

Cartoon: Georgia Henderson; Graphic: Mercedes Pericas | Loyolan

Classifieds Employment

Dr. Gee, great for grad student (310) 678-7070

Summer Day Camp San Fernando and Conejo Valleys.

Counselors, instructors for horses, gym, arts & crafts, swimming, rock climbing, petting farm, music & drama and more. Make a difference this summer! www.workatcamp. com

social media, word press blog, Need someone to do blog posts and social media. Must know how to work word press blog. initially at my home in Playa Vista. $12 hour. (310) 600-3458

SUMMER JOBS: FUN & FRIENDS! Get paid to spend your summer playing outdoors! Enthusiastic, motivated, and reliable Day Camp Staff & Swim Instructors needed for summer 2013. Visit www.pbcstaff.com Help Wanted Calling all students!

Looking for a job?

Come work at Roxy’s Cafe & Eatery, a new eating establishment for students and locals who want to hang out and grab a quick bite to eat.

Located right up the street at Lincoln and Manchester.

No experience necessary.

Email us at roxyscafeandeatery@ gmail.com if interested.

Room/salary in exchange for care assistant needed for adult male. $ 800/ mo Must be able to perform activities of daily living and transfers. Person will be provided with suite in quiet family home in Playa del Rey. Work tine needed in home 3-4 hrs Contact

On Campus BOOK YOUR PROM DRESS! Help the Do Something club make the prom dreams of girls come true by donating a gently worn dress.

Dresses can be dropped off between April 8th and 19th at the housing office or at the Lair Patio during convo on April 9th, 16th or 18th. All dresses will be donated to Westchester High School.

RATES 1-35 words: $10 36-50 words: $15 Additional words: $40

First line bolded: $1 All bolded: $2 visit www.laloyolan.com

and select ‘Classifieds’ from the Advertising Tab to set up your account

TODAY!

Information compiled by Carly Barnhill, News Intern; Graphic: Mercedes Pericas | Loyolan

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News

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April 11, 2013 Page 5

DPS responds to campus-wide power outage

Outage from Page 1

failure and reviewing power outage response protocol.

While students living in houses directly outside the back gates reported that they

Liana Bandziulis | Loyolan

Students congregate in Seaver Hall while awaiting news if their classes will be cancelled due to the power outage Monday.

did not experience an outage, senior English major Michael Goldsholl, who lives in the Playa del Oro apartments close to campus and is also a staff writer for the Loyolan, confirmed that he lost power around 6:15 p.m.

“I left my apartment at around 6:30 [p.m.] so I could watch the NCAA championship game, leaving my cat in the dark,” Goldsholl

said. “I was at first worried that the electric company shut off my power for being late on my bill, but then I realized it was probably the wind.”

Cantrell said that houses on Bluff Creek Road also experienced an outage, confirming that it was an area-wide problem.

When the power came back on around 8:35 p.m.,

DPS said that they did not know how or why the power came back and that they would alert campus. Cantrell confirmed that around 7 p.m.

Burbank Water and Power came to campus and reset LMU’s power system, but the cause for the outage is still unknown.

- Additional reporting by Casey Kidwell, asst. news editor

Opinion Student Editorials and Perspectives

April 11, 2013 Page 6

BOARD EDITORIAL

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lmu

Board Editorials represent the voice of the Loyolan. They are written in collaboration by the Executive Editorial Board.

Zaneta Pereira Managing Editor

Kevin O’Keeffe Editor in Chief

Jenna Abdou Asst. Managing Editor

Dan Raffety Managing Editor Michael Busse Copy Editor

Selection of professors is vital for LMU

P

rofessors are among the most defining forces shaping students’ college experiences. The professors who are extremely passionate about teaching their subject can profoundly impact students’ lives, often exposing them to new ideas and opportunities that dictate their journeys long after their time at LMU. Likewise, disinterested professors can steer students away from an area of study completely.

As quoted in the article “Student voices ‘important’ in hiring process at LMU” on Page 3, junior film production major Luke Braun said, “I think LMU professors are kind of hit and miss. With some professors, I learn more in one class than I’ve learned in all of college.”

As such, the Loyolan believes it is imperative that the University not only continues using the implemented process for hiring professors, but also improves it by placing a large emphasis on finding professors who are dedicated, innovative and accessible to help students grow and experience new things during their time at LMU. As a smaller school that values the relationship between faculty and students and focuses more on teaching focus than on research, this is particularly important for LMU. Presenting complex ideas in a simple, and more importantly relatable, fashion is one of the most significant ways that professors influence students. Class discussions that engage students on a deeper level often mark the moment when class assignments become projects that students are truly passionate about. It is often these projects that guide

Alcohol may improve breast cancer survival rates

students to opportunities and even careers in the fields that really excite them.

Given the increasingly important role of new media in our lives, we encourage the University to seek professors who are both well-versed and interested in utilizing new media in the classroom. Whether professors have students create a blog to post their assignments or share inspiring TED talks in their classes, the use of new media taps into an endless source of knowledge that otherwise might not be utilized.

The Loyolan believes that a majority of students who attend LMU want to be challenged both in and out of the classroom.

By selecting professors who are dedicated to working with students individually to help them grow, the University is empowering students in an extremely important way. In that vein, accessibility plays a prominent role in professors engaging with students. Professors who meet with students outside designated office hours because they are truly dedicated to their students are the mentors who leave their mark on the LMU community.

These growing experiences are crucial for every student who attends LMU, and ultimately reflect the University’s mission to “educate the whole person.” Furthermore, the Loyolan feels that this can be best accomplished by hiring professors who are extremely passionate about their jobs. Even if they’re teaching a basic course, every class is an opportunity to inspire.

We strongly encourage the administration to focus on hiring professors who are eager to leave their mark on the LMU student body.

Moderate drinkers may be more likely to survive breast cancer, according to a newly published study. While alcohol is still a known factor for developing breast cancer, a study from the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle, Wash. shows that once diagnosed, those who consume alcohol moderately have slightly increased rates of survival compared to non-drinkers. Moderate drinking is defined as three to six drinks per week. The study followed 25,000 breast cancer patients over 11 years. Beyond finding no adverse consequences, those who maintained their drinking habits were 25 percent less likely to develop cardiovascular diseases, a contributor to mortality among breast cancer survivors. What do you think about these findings?

California high school dropout rates decline

The high school dropout rate for the state of California declined to 13.2 percent, 1.5 percentage points down from 2011 to 2012, according to the L.A. Times. At the same time, graduation rates are up. State graduation rates increased 1.4 percentage points from 2011 to 78.5 percent. The largest demographic increase is amongst Latino students, rising 2.4 percentage points. AfricanAmerican student graduation rates decreased by less than a percentage point, while the student dropout rate decreased 1.8 percentage points in this demographic.

The Los Angeles Unified School District decreased its dropout rate by 2.3 percentage points in 2012, leveling the rate at 20.3 percent. How do you think LMU students can help contribute to this successful trend?

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Don’t reject the friend zone

I

don’t have a face like there was no part of me that In realizing this about Brad Pitt or a body like wanted to be in a committed myself, I understand the purChanning Tatum and prob- relationship. I want to have pose of a friend zone. We’re ably never will, if my head- healthy, casual encounters in college, and many people shot hadn’t already clued you with girls I respect rather are not looking for a serious in on that. I know I’m not the than a long-term commitment. relationship. person that I am now the friend-zoner, However, to the guys that people are and I have the same muscle constantly and anonymously going to tone that I did in high school. (thank you, LMU Confessions) p l a s t e r It seems as though some peo- malign about the dreaded o b s c e n e ple like me are only looking friend zone, you must realize messages on for noncommital situations, the two types of being friendL M U c r u s h and others are complaining zoned. One is the type when about, but I about constantly being exiled only one person has romantic have to say to the friend zone, so what feelings towards the other. In I do well gives? that case, so what? There are despite my While I have my bros, my many other fish in the sea, Chris Culture d i s a d v a n - wolf pack, my entourage or and it looks like this one isn’t tages. whatever you want to call it, going to swim its way into

By Christopher Basically, I also have valuable female your bed.

James if romantic friends, some of whom I do Then there’s the other type, A&E Editor c o m e d i e s have deeper feelings for and when both parties are prachave taught you anything, I others I just enjoy having as ticing the obscene trend of am that third banana left off company. Yet, despite possi- being too cute and quirky to the poster who gets friend- ble deeper feelings, I would say their real feelings because zoned by the protagonist. rather be a friend than noth- they are afraid of what the All through high school, ing at all. I work three jobs, other person feels. Say what there were plenty of attractive have two majors and enjoy you want, and let the chips people who placed me in fall where they may. the dreaded friend zone, The friend zone is a sad and some who moved me excuse for being emotionout of that zone as we “I am now the friend-zoner, and ally lazy. moved towards a rela- I have the same muscle tone as I Overall, be open, be tionship. People often communicative and be complain that girls only respectful. Just because did in high school.” like jerks and that nice you’re interested in guys finish last, a motion someone does not make I used to second wholehim or her obligated to heartedly, thinking of myself some alone time. On a cam- be interested in you. Even if as that sweet, doting friend pus that is rumored to be 60 they do like you more than they wish they would have percent women, I do have the a friend, they might just not married come the 15-year advantage of picking a quality want a relationship. The reunion. mate despite not being silver- friend zone should not be a Once entering college, I screen-ready in this lifetime. death sentence, for it can lead realized that girls weren’t While there are incredible, to lasting, meaningful friendjust beautiful, vapid bimbos smart, attractive and funny ships without further complitoying with the emotions of women I encounter on a daily cations. good-hearted, earnest guys basis, I know that there are This is the opinion of Christopher James, like me. more pressing matters in my a junior screenwriting and marketing As I started to get involved life than pursuing an in-depth double major from Lodi, Calif.Please send at LMU, I also realized that relationship with them. comments to cjames@theloyolan.com.

Loyolan Staff

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Opinion

April 11, 2013 Page 7

Are you smarter than a kindergartener?

S

he’s 4 feet tall, with thin, wavy brown hair that barely touches her shoulders. She has shiny, bubbly cheeks that pop against her coffee-colored skin and big, glossy brown, innocent eyes.

Her navy and white uniform – a little big – sags off of her tiny body.

She is a kinCroley Moley d e r g a r t e n e r

By Allison Croley at the school I volunteer News Editor for called St. Columbkille, and she is my new role model.

She knows all of her classmates by both name and age, and treats everyone with the utmost kindness and respect.

When someone starts complaining that the current recess game is not fair, she encourages everyone to play a different game. Everyone agrees because she is a natural, decisive leader, and everything she does seems to be fun.

Last week, the school had pajama day. I dressed in my Star Wars pajama bottoms and prayed that the kindergarteners hadn’t yet decided they were too cool to participate in spirit days. To my relief, they hadn’t, and most of them came dressed in fullfledged PJs. It was a fun day filled with reading and playing, but by the students’ lunchtime, I had to finish filing their papers.

“Are you coming outside?”

Jackson Turcotte | Loyolan

she asked.

“Maybe once I finish filing your papers,” I said.

“Will you take care of Teddy then?” She extended her arms up, clutching a stuffed brown bear dressed in pink pajamas.

“Of course,” I said.

I took the bear and laid it in her cubby on top of her workbooks. She took off her sweater and laid it over the bear, tucking the sleeves under it. She looked up at me and smiled with her big, brown eyes, then ran off to the schoolyard. It was in that moment that I realized this 5-year-old had it all figured out.

She was going to be at most 20 feet from her beloved bear, yet she was concerned for his safety. I live 250 miles from

my closest relatives and yet I rarely ever think about their safety, let alone their health, daily life or new accomplishments.

She was running outside to eat lunch and play with classmates that she has known for a few months. She wasn’t thinking about where they came from, what they wanted to do with their lives or how much money their parents gave them that day.

She was just eating, playing and having a good time.

Yet it takes me weeks, if not months, to trust someone enough to truly have fun with them. Only on rare occasions, when I am feeling especially carefree, do I let people in without overanalyzing their backgrounds and life aspirations, or trying to figure out

all the different ways they could end up hurting me.

I realize that my sense of guardedness and reluctance to let people in is rooted in life experience – something that a 5-year-old can’t necessarily grasp. But I don’t think that our general demeanors have to be direct results of our circumstances. We have the ability to decide how we react to situations. While college can be stressful (and at times very difficult), we are not entitled to disregard the simpler parts of life.

It’s easy to look at kids and be jealous of their seemingly easy lives, and then proceed to convince myself that I have responsibilities and knowledge that require me to be rigid and serious.

But, as a college student,

what responsibility do I really have? What will happen if I spend too much money?

What will happen if I get a bad grade?

I know the answer. Both of those things have happened at least once in the last month, and what happened? Nothing life-changing. I got paid again, and I studied harder for the next test. So what? Why does that matter? When I look back 30 years from now, will I even remember those things?

Probably not. I will, however, remember my time spent volunteering and interacting with children who made me realize the importance of letting things go, living in the moment and loving unconditionally.

I think that it is important to stay involved on and off campus. After all, if it weren’t for my volunteering I would never have met such a bright, inspiring child. But we cannot let our obligations overshadow our long-term aspirations.

It’s so easy to get caught up in school, work and extracurricular commitments while trying to balance a social life, but making a few mistakes here and there isn’t worth stressing over. Of course, I always want to do my best, but sometimes – especially when I overcommit myself – I can’t do everything perfectly; and that’s OK. It took a kindergartener to teach me that.

This is the opinion of Allison Croley, a sophomore English major from Danville, Calif. Please send comments to acroley@theloyolan.com.

Festival fashion: Less clothes and more fun

A

s summer approaches, so does musical festival season. Since most of these events are not clothing optional, like the infamous Burning Man, a music festival style has emerged. This spirit of the young, wild and free revives many of the fashion choices circa Woodstock 1969, as the musical festival tradition is carried on by Coachella, Stagecoach, Outside Lands and many others.

Although I would not recommend wearing Burruel’s bell-bottom pants Boutique in the desert, there

By Alicia Burruel are many vintage Staff Writer styles that are still applicable today. This boho-chic style is embodied in brands like Brandy Melville, Urban Outfitters and Free People. No matter where you shop, the goal for music festival style is being comfortable, cool and cute.

One of my fashion must-haves for this warm season is the high-waisted short. This spin on the classic denim short is a versatile option to beat the heat. They look flattering on almost every figure, and come in many different colors and styles. The light-wash denim is great for a more natural look and serves as an excellent contrast to a dark band tank. For the more daring fashionista, Brandy Melville and Urban Outfitters are among the many stores that sell high-waisted shorts in a variety of colors. However, if you are doing a colorful bottom, you probably want to stick with a more neutral top. Overall, the high-waisted short is an essential pick for a weekend in the desert, and conveniently fits in any form of luggage.

During the summer months, bandeaus are this girl’s best friend. They are a cuter, less bulky alternative to a camisole under loose-fitting tops. They are also a great way to hide certain undergarments that you may or may not want the public to see. However, for a weekend in the desert, it is completely acceptable to utilize a bandeau as a cool, comfortable top option. In the heat, I feel that less clothing is more fun, functional and acceptable. Although it is easy to go with neutral colors for a piece of clothing that is often categorized as an undergarment, sometimes it is good to step outside the boundaries and try a bright pop of color or a lacy option.

Flickr Creative Commons

High-waisted shorts and comfort are two of the essential components of a successful music festival wardrobe.

Contrary to popular belief, lace is not just for girly girls.

Although the desert is known for its heat, the evenings are known to get quite cool. My recommendation for the changing climate is knitwear. I’m not recommending people wear a wool sweater in the desert for the entire weekend. I’m talking about loose-fitting knitwear, preferably a piece that has a larger looping series or lighter yarn material to allow for open air exchange to keep you cooler in the heat and more protected from the elements.

Fortunately, many of these fashion options are easily accessible for college students. If designers like Urban Outfitters and Free People are out of your price range, there are many thrift shop options in the Los Angeles area including: Buffalo Exchange; Decades, Inc.; Goodwill and Out of the Closet, which benefits the AIDS Healthcare Foundation. Your parents’ closets are also a great place to find festival clothing. I have had some successful finds among my parents’ vintage teenage duds. After all, we are all young, wild and free at some point.

This is the opinion of Alicia Burruel, a junior communication studies major from Stockton, Calif.

Please send comments to cjames@theloyolan.com.

-Chelsea Chenelle, Asst. A&E Editor

All graphics: Tyler Barnett | Loyolan

From hip hop to rock, Outside Lands: A Coachella covers it all “cool” alternative T

ry to picture heaven. Maybe you see clouds, tiny cherubs, all-you-can-eat pancakes or casual walks along the beach with J.C. himself. I, however, see Coachella, a musical paradise nestled in a desert oasis, far away from stress, sorrow and anything bad. It’s a magical place where you can wear close to nothing, dance your face off for hours to the music of your favorite bands and meet friendly Australians who think your accent is sexy.

Coachella has Sound Check drawn thousands of

By Mary Grace people to the grassy Cerni Empire Polo Fields Asst. A&E Editor in Indio, Calif., since its inauguration in 1999. Headliners for the three-day music festival have included Rage Against The Machine, Red Hot Chili Peppers – who are returning for this year’s festival – Madonna, Prince, Daft Punk and the ghost of Tupac Shakur, though some have called it a hologram. The festival consistently delivers a star-studded lineup and a slew of smaller bands that range from Internet sensations like Wallpaper. and #BEEN #TRILL to acts that are close to achieving superstar status like Vampire Weekend and 2 Chainz.

At Coachella, it’s not just about the music. There truly is something for everyone, as the festival becomes more of a glamorous weekend getaway than an uncomfortable camping trip. In addition to musical performances, there are incredible art exhibits, amazing food trucks like Kogi and Pink’s Hot Dogs and shady terraces complete with full bars.

At the campgrounds, there are games, an all-organic-pesticide-free farmers market and even morning yoga. If you’ve never

M

Mary Grace Cerni | Loyolan

Festivalgoers gather together in the bright Palm Desert sun as Santigold performs at the 2012 Coachella Music Festival.

camped before, you have nothing to worry about. The Coachella campgrounds have showers, makeup and blow-dry counters and iPhone charging stations; you definitely won’t be roughing it.

Heaven comes with a hefty price tag, however. Passes for Coachella start at $350, and if you factor in lodging, transportation and food, a weekend can cost upwards of $500. Don’t let the price scare you.

The Coachella Valley Music and Arts annual festival is everything it is hyped up to be. Go now, while you’re young, before you get cut off by your parents and start to lose your devil-may-care attitude. Coachella is a unique experience that every college student should try at least once, if not multiple times for years to come.

This is the opinion of Mary Grace Cerni, a sophomore communication studies major from West Covina, Calif.

Please send comments to mcerni@theloyolan.com.

ark Twain once said, “The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco.” With that in mind, Outside Lands is the perfect place to let the inner wild child free without having to worry about dehydration, heat stroke or melting.

Located in one of the hippie epicenters of the universe – Golden Gate Park – the vibe of the festival is old school.

Between the massive psychedelic art structures located throughout the venue and the festival Carreon My Wayward Son attendees in their

By Mary Carreon best hippie attire, it’s hard not to feel A&E Intern the peace and love.

Throughout the duration of the festival, there is a select group of artists that participate in live painting sessions, installations in the woods and various kinds of experimental art.

Along with the art, there is also a wide variety of wines, beers and food. The wine list at the festival is comprised of some of Napa Valley’s best. The beer selection is just as excellent, with over 15 beers to choose from – some of which are only available in San Francisco. Between the variety of adult beverages and the eclectic assortments of food, there’s something available for everyone – even if you’re not 21.

The best part of Outside Lands, however, is the music. The festival hosts over 72 musicians over a three-day period, with music genres that range from electronic music to the blues. Between 2010 and 2012 alone, Nas & Damian Marley, Al Green, Foo Fighters, Muse, Justice, Metallica, Neil Young, Jack White, Macklemore & Ryan Lewis and Stevie Wonder have graced the stages at Outside Lands.

At Outside Lands, it’s common for per-

Mary Carreon | Loyolan

Attendees at San Francisco’s Outside Lands music festival hang out beneath eclectic art installations placed around the festival. formers to do things that are excitingly unusual. Last year, Jack White, formerly of The White Stripes, performed an unannounced set in the middle of the Golden Gate woods to a small group of festivalgoers who happened to be in the right place at the right time. The randomness of White’s performance characterizes the type of off-the-wall events that happen at Outside Lands.

San Francisco is one of the best places in the world to experience the free-spirited festival environment. The dates for the festival are Aug. 9-11, and the lineup will be released next week. As Outside Lands is the Bay Area’s largest music festival, it is something that every music lover and adventure seeker should experience.

This is the opinion of Mary Carreon, a junior English major from San Clemente, Calif. Please send comments to cjames@theloyolan.com.

Country music haven found at Stagecoach

W

hether you want a little bit of chicken fried and a cold beer on a Friday night or to enjoy a barefoot blue jean night, the annual Stagecoach festival is guaranteed to satisfy your ultimate redneck dreams. Taking place April 26-28 at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, Calif. this year’s Stagecoach will have an exciting range of country artists performing all different forms of the time-honored American music genre.

From party favorite redneck fun with Chris Culture Toby Keith, to moody heartfelt ballads by

By Christopher Lady Antebellum and James finishing with the A&E Editor true Southern stylings of the Zac Brown Band, this is one hoedown that just won’t quit.

For those who are thinking that Stagecoach will just be three straight days of beerbellied rednecks, I would like to note the

prominent celebrities performing. It seems that in Hollywood, the best side job is to have one’s own touring folk band. Oscar nominee John C. Reilly, perhaps best known to us college students as Dale in “Step Brothers,” will have a set on Sunday as a part of John Reilly and Friends. Everyone’s favorite motorcycle mama, Katey Sagal from “Sons of Anarchy,” is joining The Forest Rangers for a performance.

However, nothing would be complete without “The Dude” himself showing up to perform. That’s right, Jeff Bridges of “The Big Lebowski” is coming to perform at Stagecoach with his band, The Abiders. Does it get any cooler than that?

From bluegrass to banjo to critical levels of twang, the people shelling out money for the pilgrimage to Stagecoach want to delve into the roots of country music. This means hearing the stories of home on the farm, dealing with the everyday crises of life and love songs about a red plastic cup. No Taylor Swift allowed.

There is more to Stagecoach than just the music. One of the cornerstone images of the festival is the Ferris wheel to enjoy the festivi-

ties from up high. For those feeling lost from being away from their horses for too long, Clydesdale horses will also be in attendance enjoying the music.

However, the non-musical event I am most looking forward to is the Stagecoach festival barbecue championships. The first day is dedicated to homestyle chili with the winner, as determined by attendees, moving on to the International Chili Society’s World Championship Homestyle Cookoff. Another day features a Texas Style barbecue with festivalgoers once again acting as judges. Finally, the last day features a barbecue evaluated by the Kansas City Barbeque Society Certified Judges, with the winners moving on to the World Food Championships in Las Vegas.

If you’re looking for a simple break from the hustle and bustle of the big city trying to enjoy down-home country music, see some A-list celebrities or interested in trying some delicious barbecue, Stagecoach is the festival for you.

Associated Press This is the opinion of Christopher James, a junior screenwriting and marketing double major from Lodi, Calif.

Please send comments to cjames@theloyolan.com.

The Ferris wheel is a tradition of the Stagecoach Music Festival when people want to take a break from the music.

Arts & Entertainment

April 11, 2013 Page 10

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Arts & Entertainment

April 11, 2013 Page 11

Prominent ‘90s cartoon animator visits LMU Event Recap

By Pamela Rios Staff Writer

I

t’s never too late to fulfill a childhood dream.

Animation majors were treated to an exclusive visit on Tuesday night from famed Hungarian animator, producer and director Gábor Csupó.

While the name may not ring a bell for most people, Csupó’s work certainly does, especially for those who grew up with Nickelodeon.

Co-founder of animation studio Klasky Csupo, Csupó has been responsible for creating some of the most be-

loved cartoons of the past few decades, including “Rugrats,” “Aaahh!!! Real Monsters,” “The Wild Thornberrys” and “Rocket Power,” not to mention animating a series of shorts for “The Tracey Ullmann Show,” which would later become its own half-hour series known for the past 20 years as “The Simpsons.” In fact, it was Csupó who made the decision to turn the famous family yellow.

Csupó stopped by to speak to a small assembly of animation majors after being invited by longtime friend and Bellarmine College of Liberal Arts Administrative Assistant Eszter Zakarias.

“It just dawned on me that I should make this happen.

It would be a great opportunity for the students before the end of the semester,” Zakarias said. “I see that it could benefit [LMU] and be great for him at the same time.”

Csupó used the time to impart guidance to the student animators, and to divulge his personal journey from a struggling but talented animator in Hungary to producing some of the highest-rated and most fondly remembered animated series on Nickelodeon.

Before the event, senior animation major Jane Mahoney said, “There’s a ton of nostalgia for that and I think people are probably going to be curious as to what working on those [shows] was like.”

Other animation students expressed their enthusiasm towards simply having an animator as accomplished as Csupó stop by LMU. “We really don’t know what it’s like to be animators [in the real world], so having someone come in and tell us helps us decide if we want to stay in this field or not,” said freshman animation major Troy Summersett.

Csupó’s story of escaping Hungary’s communist regime in order to pursue his dreams inspired the animators. Sophomore animation major, also a cartoonist for the Loyolan, Georgia Henderson said, “He traveled far and risked a lot to become an animator. It was motivating to know that he came from such humble beginnings to create things that so many people love.”

Viacom

Gábor Csupó the co-founder of the animation studio responsible for shows such as“Rugrats”(above),visited students to talk careers,cartoons and nostalgia.

April11, 2013 Page 12

Nightlife

www.laloyolan.com

Do not bother, I am definitely off limits I don’t know who came up with the idea of “playing hard to get.”

But I’d like to sit them down and have a nice, long talk. Because contrary to what we are told and indoctrinated to believe, I don’t think that playing hard to get is the easiest way to land your next prospective What the Heck s i g n i f i c a n t

By Allie Heck other.

Opinion Editor But it’s all around us, and has been for some time. Allie refuses to go on a date with Noah in “The Notebook” until he legitimately threatens to fall from the top of a Ferris wheel. And it actually works.

I don’t know what’s weirder: the fact that we perpetuate such a bizarre phenomenon, or the fact that we actually find it romantic. I wish I could say that if someone pulled that crap in real life we wouldn’t be so smitten, but something tells me the exact opposite. While most of the run-ins I’ve had with

playing hard to get don’t involve threats of serious injury or death, they’ve still caused me some grief.

We have an infatuation with the concept of playing hard to get, of giving off the impressions of “absolutely not” while secretly meaning “yes.” Call it whatever you want: acting it aloof, having the upper hand, instigating the chase. When it comes down to it, though, we’re telling people no and expecting them to keep on trying until they get a yes.

It seems relatively harmless – annoying, but nonetheless inoffensive. The flaw in logic, however, lies in the idea that we enable a “no means yes” mentality in our flirting situations and expect it to not transfer over into the hookup culture — two arenas that are inarguably linked.

I remember the first time I realized the power of playing hard to get. In middle school, I would run around stealing the hats of my crushes, only to ignore them later in the night. Luckily, my tactics evolved throughout my high school career. Obvious strategies were replaced with fleeting eye contact from across the room. It dawned

on me one day, however, that while I liked the power playing hard to get gave me, it never resulted in a beneficial relationship. Not to mention, I can only imagine how stupid I must’ve looked roughly 90 percent of the time. I’m not an aloof person, and I’m not good at convincing people otherwise.

The terminology itself “playing hard to get” denotes a game, and I firmly believe that this game is a loselose scenario. As a maturing woman, I find that successful interactions with people do not begin with weird plays on power. In fact, the actual idea behind this flirting tactic — making people believe you are above them — is taboo in almost every other facet of life. Bottom line: I can’t support a “no means yes” approach to dating, and I find it hard to believe that a flirting technique I capitalized on around age 13 will lead me to any kind of successful relationship at age 20.

This is the opinion of Allie Heck, a freshman business major from Dallas, Texas. Please sends comments to aheck@theloyolan.com.

Jackson Turcotte | Loyolan

Social makeover

Leslie Irwin | Loyolan

One of LMU’s sororities, Pi Beta Phi, celebrates as they welcome new members into its organization in January of 2013.

W

ith the deadline for high school seniors to commit to universities quickly approaching, these students are making a decision that will affect their lives indefinitely. Accordingly, one morning when I was wearing my recently acquired Pi Beta Phi letters for the first time as a newly initiated member, such a senior Ali’s Tally stopped me

By Ali Swenson in my tracks Asst. News Editor to ask me a question about our University’s social scene, the answer to which can’t exactly be found on the LMU homepage.

She flagged me down and expressed her concern that the nightlife at LMU could be, to put it lightly, a little less than lively. She wanted to know if joining a sorority changed that, if going through recruitment could make weekend activities more frequent and more fun.

This student’s question made me think: How did my college experience, on weekends in particular, change since going Greek?

The most distinct change was one that I noticed during the day, too. In fact, I noticed it the first day after bid night, when probably 100 girls that were previously strangers greeted me with waves and smiles.

The fact is that joining a sorority introduces you to a mass of people that you didn’t know beforehand.

As a result, going out is, to an-

swer the student’s question, absolutely a different experience. The amount of people I know when I show up to houses has multiplied exponentially, to the point where I don’t (usually) have to be that tentative freshman who doesn’t know anyone but the people with whom she arrived.

For this reason, I understand why LMU’s spring semester freshman year is notorious for being a whirlwind of novelty and flux that makes many see first semester more negatively. After all, opportunities to go out do increase after joining a Greek organization.

I don’t think, by the way, that this change is exclusive to Greek organizations. I think it’s part of becoming assimilated with the school in general, getting involved with things that interest you personally and meeting more people as you spend more time here on campus.

I wanted this curious student to realize that going Greek or partying are not the only ways to find fun at this school. I told her that I’ve seen people change when they’ve gone Greek, and though it can seem like a positive thing, holding on to who you are is more important. Finally, I urged her to remember that the friends you make first semester, if you let them be, can be some of the closest people to you and that spending time and going out with those people remains, without question, my favorite part of my college experience.

This is the opinion of Ali Swenson, a freshman undeclared liberal arts major from Seattle, Wash. Please send comments to aswenson@theloyolan.com.

Sydney Franz | Loyolan

www.laloyolan.com

Sports

April 11, 2013 Page 13

Acceptance in sports: Not quite there yet Rumors about professional athletes coming out give the public false hope.

I

n a country that once embraced gay-bashing and made bullying based on sexual orientation popular, it’s hard not to be proud of the recent swell of support for LGBT individuals in this country.

Marriage equality is a cultural buzz phrase. The promise of the It Gets Better campaign seems to be coming true for so many young people growing into strong, confident individuals.

It’s K-OK! And in the world

By Kevin of professional O’Keeffe sports, NFL playEditor in Chief ers are supposedly considering coming out.

Except, maybe they aren’t.

Former Baltimore Ravens linebacker Brendon Ayanbadejo, long on record as a marriage equality proponent, told the Baltimore Sun last week that he knew of “up to four players” in the NFL who were in talks to come out together.

“It would make a major splash and take the pressure off one guy,” he said. “It would be a monumental day if a handful or a few guys come out.”

An announcement like this was guaranteed to make waves and have LGBT advocates hopeful for real change. So of course, it took all of one day before Ayanbadejo started retracting his statement.

“Potentially, it’s possible, it’s fathomable, that they could possibly do

Associated Press

Baltimore Ravens linebacker Brendon Ayanbadejo has long been a supporter of gay rights and marriage equality. Recently, he said four players in the NFL were planning to come out together, then walked that statement back. something together, and break a story together,” he told Anderson Cooper on CNN. “And one of them had voiced that he would like to break his story with someone else and not do it alone. ... Not all these athletes are in the NFL. Some are in other sports as well.”

He might as well have said, “Hey, so everything I said yesterday? Forget about it. Never mind. My bad.”

Such developments are disheartening, particularly when the world of professional sports could really use a big push forward on the path to acceptance.

Boston University Professor Robert Volk once called professional sports “the last bastion of homophobia.” While I think that’s inaccurate (I’m pretty sure Virginia, which re-

cently passed the Crimes Against Nature law banning sodomy, has “last bastion” status locked down), it does reflect an ugly truth about the heteronormative culture of sports: Things aren’t changing as briskly as it may seem.

Yes, there are allies like Ayanbadejo and Minnesota Vikings punter Chris Kluwe petitioning publicly for equal rights. And yes, there are plenty of teams, like the Boston Red Sox and the San Francisco Giants, that made It Gets Better videos to support victims of bullying due to LGBT status. But right now, all this amounts to is a more supportive public face. This begs the question: If this environment is so supportive, then why are gay players not coming out of the nearest closet they find?

The truth is that all the ‘It Gets Better’ messages in the world can’t take gay slurs out of locker rooms in a flash. The Ayanbadejos and Kluwes are incredible allies, but they are two men out of almost 2,000 in the NFL alone. Equality and acceptance are trending topics, but behind the curtain, we have no idea how well these values are truly espoused.

Athletes and pundits need to stop pretending everything is resolved already or engage in wishful thinking about groups of athletes about to come out of the closet. Instead, they should focus on tangible goals that will go a long way to creating the equal culture they so desperately want to believe is already here.

In fact, professional sports figures would do well to pay attention to

their college brethren. The NCAA took major steps forward with the release of “Champions of Respect,” its guide for creating a more accepting climate for LGBT individuals.

The guide is full of instructions and guidelines for working with LGBT athletes and coaches, it offers great suggestions for coaches and athletes, including educating themselves about LGBT issues in sports and monitoring the use of anti-gay slurs. These things may seem elementary to you and me, but for a culture that has long suffered from these issues, they really aren’t. If the guide is effectively implemented, it could signal real change in the college sports climate.

I get it, I really do: Equal rights for LGBT individuals are having a moment. I’m absolutely thrilled. The idea that we could see major steps forward on marriage equality as early as June is stunning to someone like me, a Texan kid who grew up wondering if there was anyone who understood how he really felt and would stand up for him. But attempting to catch up to the cultural trend in one fell swoop without going through the proper steps isn’t going to work. Equality is most effective when everyone understands not only the what, but the why.

Four professional athletes coming out together is an incredible idea, and one that, if it ever came to pass, would inspire so many LGBT individuals playing sports. But creating false hope, which I’m sure was not Ayanbadejo’s intention, doesn’t inspire, and it doesn’t really help create acceptance. Because the sports world isn’t there yet.

This is the opinion of Kevin O’Keeffe, a junior screenwriting major from Austin, Texas. Please send comments to kokeeffe@theloyolan.com.

Sports

April 11, 2013 Page 14

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Lions finding success without long ball LMU Baseball Home Run Totals (2007-2013)

Baseball from Page 16 Baltimore Orioles’ 33rd round draft pick and electing to play his senior season for Gill and the Lions.

“It’s the easiest way to score runs. Just tallying up runs, but as you can see it, doesn’t hold up the importance that it should with us,” said Plaia.

Through April 7, the Lions have averaged 4.5 runs per game, which ranks them No. 215 in the nation. The team is ranked No. 163 in batting average with a 2.67 and No. 216 in slugging percentage with a .337. Simply put, the Lions’ offense isn’t a prolific firepower that dictates winning games.

“The offense we try and run is more of a singles and doubles, moving guys over and in, but that doesn’t mean that we don’t have guys that can hit it out,” said Plaia. “It’s not for a lack of trying. Any time you go up to the plate, you are not trying to hit a home run. Most of them are accidents. It’s more of a doubles year, I guess.”

But this team hasn’t skipped a beat and, surprisingly, is

50 46

40

42 35

30 20

24

22 15

10 0

0

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013(as of April 11)

Statistics compiled from LMU Athletics; Photo: Chris Delgado| Loyolan; Graphic: Stephanie Schiller | Loyolan

still scoring enough runs to win ballgames. In Tuesday’s 10-3 victory over Big West competitor UC Riverside, the Lions’ bats exploded for 10 runs, eight of which came in the first three innings.

The team put up 23 runs in Las Vegas, Nev. on March 3

Lions’ Home Run Totals for 2012 season Name

Position

Homeruns

Colton Plaia (senior)

Catcher

Cullen Mahoney (senior)

Infielder

Joey Boney (senior)

Infielder

6 3 1 1

Tanner Donnels (sophomore)

Outfielder

Statistics compiled from LMU Athletics; Graphic: Gilles Meunier | Loyolan

against Bradley University and 11 against the University of Utah on Feb. 17. Despite the production, no balls left the yard for LMU. “Home runs are weird. They will come in spurts or they won’t be there at all,” said Mahoney. “I think it says something about our team when guys aren’t trying to hit home runs at the plate. That’s when you get into a slump. We are content with doing what this team does well and that’s team offense.”

The stadiums the Lions have played in this season may have been a factor in the lack of power. The Lions have made trips to the Pacific Northwest and Midwest, where the climate and field conditions aren’t welcoming to home runs.

thlete K

“Some of the places we’ve played haven’t been conducive for hitting home runs,” said Gill. “You look at [University of] Oregon in 38-degree weather, at Oklahoma State [University] with 35-mph winds blowing straight across. The college bat has a lot to do with it also.

Home runs have been down everywhere.”

Mahoney describes Page Stadium from a power hitter’s perspective: “There is a jet that goes to 365, left-center gap, but the ball doesn’t carry to right field well at all and we have a lot of left-handed hitters.”

The lack of long balls has not affected the team’s confidence at the plate. In fact, according to multiple sources, it’s brought the team closer

together and has become a laughing point among the roster.

“It becomes more of a joke, if anything. If you look at our lineup, it’s not really a powerproducing lineup. It’s more doubles hitters, gap-to-gap hitters, with occasional homerun power,” Gill said.

So how have the Lions remained competitive and in the driver’s seat to make a run at a conference championship?

Pitching, defense and timely hitting.

The team’s ERA is ranked No. 22 in the nation with a combined 2.80, and No. 38 in strikeout to walk ratio. Led by sophomore pitching sensations Colin Welmon and Trevor Megill, not to mention senior pitcher Aaron Griffin, the Lions expect to be in every single game because of their stellar starting rotation.

The Lions’ defense has also improved from the first few series, as the team has limited errors and they have made the routine play, something that was not always taking place in the beginning of the season.

“The offense is coming around,” said Plaia. “Everything is working. Our defense has been better. They are keeping us in games. We are in every game and it puts pressure on teams, especially when we are sticking around. Defense is the biggest part.”

The Lions will aim to continue their winning ways against No. 7 UCLA this weekend, and maybe, just maybe, hear the words so famously said by baseball broadcasters everywhere – “she is gone.”

potlight 4. Who is your favorite professional athlete?

Somalian sprinter Abdi Abdirahman.

evin Joerger

Sport: cross country and track Class: junior Major: biochemistry Hometown: Thousand Oaks, Calif.

The LMU track team is focused on this weekend’s Pomona-Pitzer Invitational after impressive performances at the Stanford Invitational and San Francisco State Distance Carnival last weekend. After leaving the San Francisco State Distance Carnival victorious in the section two of the men’s 5000-meter run, junior long-distance runner Kevin Joerger sat down with sports intern David Palomares to discuss his running roots, time travel and more.

1. At what age did you realize your passion for running?

I started running in seventh grade because I was kind of a chubby kid and wanted to lose weight, and then I just found I had a talent for it after all.

2. When did you begin running competitively?

I’ve been running on cross country and track since my freshman year at Thousand Oaks High School.

3. Who was your greatest source of inspiration or motivation growing up?

Probably all my teammates. It’s a lot easier to work hard when you’re surrounded by a bunch of other people working toward the same goal.

5. In your opinion, what separates long-distance runners from sprinters?

It’s basically an entirely different sport. You can get by on talent more in sprinting, whereas in distance running it’s all about how many miles you’ve run and the work you’ve put in.

6. What is your all-time favorite movie?

“Fight Club.”

7. As a biochemistry major, how do you personally find the balance between athletics and academics?

You kind of find the balance out of necessity. I really learned to manage all my time and always be doing something. You learn to pretty quickly.

8. What has been your most memorable moment thus far at LMU? Our Mammoth trip with the cross country team. We go up to Mammoth and have a weeklong training session. Lots of team bonding goes on during the trip.

9. If you could travel back in time, what advice would you give your younger self about the future?

Just to keep working hard, because it turns out pretty good.

10. Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Hopefully not still working on a Ph.D.

Photos: LMU Athletics, Graphic: Gilles Meunier | Loyolan

L

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Sports

April 11, 2013 Page 15

Softball up against conference leader BYU Softball from Page 16

Steven Douglas | Loyolan

Freshman pitcher Sydney Gouveia was named PCSC Pitcher of the Week after her performance last weekend.This is her third time being recognized.

strikeouts. She is ranked No. 3 in the NCAA in strikeouts per seven innings, averaging 11.5 strikeouts per seven innings.

“It’s exciting that I’m getting chosen over the senior pitchers on the other teams,” Gouveia said. “I have more confidence getting named Pitcher of the Week. It’s really nice going into BYU this weekend. I feel really confident and I’m excited to get out there and play this weekend.”

Gouveia got her fourth double-digit strikeout performance on Sunday, making it her 11th for the season. So far this season, she has a 1.54 ERA. “[The recognition] just shows that we’re [a team] to be reckoned with,” Harman said. “Hopefully when we go to BYU, it makes them a little nervous. It gives the team a

lot of confidence knowing that the person basically controlling the whole game is top in the conference right now.”

The games against BYU this weekend will count towards the Lions’ PCSC record. LMU is currently second in conference rankings behind the Cougars. BYU is currently two games ahead of LMU. If LMU wins two of four games, the teams will be tied for first at the end of the weekend.

“Since they’re in first place, they have a big target on their back. Everyone wants to play their best against them,” Harman said.

The Cougars are coming off of a four-game split against Utah Valley University last weekend. Both LMU and BYU have four players who have a batting average around .300.

Harman said the team has been practicing certain hitting situations to prepare.

“Last week, we focused a lot

on clutch hitting,” Harman said. “We would have runners on second and third and have someone bat, so instead of just having someone bat one on, we’re actually working on pressure situations.”

The race to take first place in PCSC standings begins on Friday at 4 p.m. The Lions will play two games on Friday and two on Saturday.

“You do the things you’re supposed to do,” Ferrin said.

“If you execute in a timely manner, and more often than the other team executes, you give yourself a chance to win.

That’s really what any game of this magnitude is about.

We’re all really close. We’re all evenly matched teams.”

After this weekend, the Lions face the University of San Diego, another conference opponent, in a four-game series starting on April 27 at Smith Field. The Toreros are last in PCSC standings with a 2-6 conference record.

Campbell finishes regular season strong Golf from Page 16 “It just shows you that [Campbell] has a lot of talent. I was really proud of him to come through in pressure moments,” Torano said of Campbell. “He can not only play the game, but also stay strong mentally.

I’m looking for him to help us out during conference. He’s that one extra guy that can help a lot.”

Torano, who enjoyed much

success in February, finished in a five-way tie for 46th place.

He started the invitational with a par-72, but fell off pace in the final two rounds.

“My game was a little off. I had a little lack of confidence and it showed,” Torano said.

“I really want to go back and work harder to get ready for conference.”

LMU hit a hot streak in February as it recorded back-toback third place finishes in the

Folino Invitational and the Del Walker Invitational. In February, Torano was named WCC Men’s Golfer of the Month.

The Lions have stumbled since then, failing to crack the top 10 in their last two tournaments.

The road doesn’t get easier for the Lions, as they expect tough competition next week at the WCC Championships.

In the Farms Collegiate Invite earlier this season, LMU fin-

ished behind four WCC teams: Saint Mary’s College, University of San Diego, Santa Clara University and University of San Francisco.

“We didn’t really perform well against other guys in our conference. We’re flying under the radar so there’s no pressure on us,” Torano said.

“I know we have talent and it hasn’t been showing, but hopefully we can show up and surprise some people.”

Conference foe Brigham Young University is the only other school to feature a WCC Golfer of the Month this season. Senior Zac Blair was given the honor in March after he posted three top-five finishes.

“He is really talented, but I have to go out there and just play my game,” Torano said, referring to Blair. “I can’t just focus on one person. If I play to my potential, hopefully I can compete for the title.”

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Lion Sports

April 11, 2013 Page 16

No home runs? No problem

0

home runs since May 27, 2012

GOLF SOFTBALL Chris Delgado | Loyolan

Senior infielder Cullen Mahoney and his teammates have not hit a home run through 32 games this season. The Lions are the sole team among 296 Division I schools in the NCAA to not hit a long ball this season. The team has 19 regular season games remaining, including nine home games at Page Stadium.

SPORTS FEATURE LMU’s baseball team has not hit a home run this season, but is third place in the WCC standings.

By Dan Raffety Managing Editor

This one’s back – to the track – at the wall, she is gone!

These words are always spoken in reference to one of the most exciting plays in sports: the home run. But for the 2013 Lions men’s baseball team, these words have not been said all season.

When asked what significance home runs play in the game of baseball, Head Coach Jason Gill simply said, “When you hit a home run, you score a run.”

The Lions (17-15, 7-5) are the only team in all of the NCAA Division

I baseball – 296 teams – to have not gone yard this season. Despite not rounding the bases on a bomb over the outfield fence, the Lions find themselves in third place in competitive West Coast Conference (WCC) standings and have turned it around of late, winning nine of their last 12 games, three of their last four.

“I think they can serve as a momentum, as a big inning type of deal, but they also say that home runs kill rallies,” said senior infielder

Cullen Mahoney, who finished last season with three home runs. “They help you score quickly, but I don’t think they are that big of a deal.”

The Lions have averaged over 30 home runs per season the last six seasons, including 46 long balls in 2010. Senior catcher Colton Plaia led last year ’s team, which hit 22 collective home runs, with six roundtrippers and looked to improve his offense after declining to accept the

See Baseball | Page 14

LMU softball enters Men’s golf prepares for heart of PCSC play WCC Championships The softball team (25-18, 8-4) heads to Utah this weekend for a four-game matchup with BYU.

By Sam Borsos Asst. Sports Editor

After sweeping the Saint Mary’s College Gaels last week, the last thing the LMU softball team will have to worry about this weekend is its confidence. Coming off of four straight wins against the Gaels, LMU (2518, 8-4) faces Pacific Coast Softball Conference (PCSC) leader Brigham Young University (BYU) (16-20, 6-2) this weekend in Provo, Utah.

“We were saying that we had the curse of splitting games,” junior third baseman Meghan Harman said. “We could never get a three-to-one [series] win, so it definitely helps our confidence. We have BYU coming up so we need all the confidence we can get.”

This season, the team has not been able to get a sweep when playing a team four times back-to-back until last weekend. The Lions, who had home-field advantage, were able to

keep up their level of play for the entire weekend.

“We were an exciting team,” Head Coach Gary Ferrin said. “And like I told the girls after the game, it wasn’t just about winning. We were an exciting team. And if you lost one, you lost one. But we played with a sense of urgency.”

Freshman pitcher Sydney Gouveia was honored as PCSC Pitcher of the Week after her performance last weekend, but it wasn’t her first time receiving recognition. Gouveia has already won the award twice this season.

“Sydney, as a freshman, is the future of the program,” Ferrin said.

“Unfortunately [senior pitcher] Molly [Medeiros] is now injured and she was a very important, integral part of the program. But she’s out, and life has to go on, which forces Sydney to step up earlier than you would ask a freshman to do, but she’s up to the task.”

Currently, Gouveia ranks fifth in LMU’s single season record book with a season accumulation of 195

See Softball | Page 15

LMU golfers Tyler Torano and Connor Campbell lead the Lions into postseason.

By Carlton Lew Asst. Sports Editor

Junior Tyler Torano may have dominated the middle half of the season, but it was freshman who Connor Campbell who helped LMU finish strong, as he recorded his first victory as a Lion at the 33rd Annual Anteater Invitational at the El Niguel Country Club on March 26.

With West Coast Conference Championships less than a week away, the LMU men’s golf team looks to build on Campbell’s performance and make some final adjustments before heading to Bremerton, Wash. next Monday. It has been a season filled with firsts for some individuals, but the team has enjoyed relative success as well.

“Although we have a young team, we have a lot of talent and a lot of potential to play well in the future,” Campbell said. “I hope that the team

wins and hopefully we’ll move to regionals, but I’d also like to win individually.”

Despite Campbell’s finish, the Lions finished sixth behind CSU Long Beach in the Anteater Classic for the third time in a tournament this season. In every tournament in which the 49ers were fielded, the Lions struggled to place ahead of them.

At the Anteater Invitational, Campbell finished his final round with a 1-under-par 71. He shot a 2-under-par 70 in the first round and a 3-over-par 75 in the second round.

The freshman added five birdies in the third round on his way to a firstplace finish.

“I just never gave up,” Campbell said. “Even if I made a mistake, I didn’t let it get to me.”

Campbell joins an elite club of freshmen to collect an individual title. Former LMU star Brian Locke was the first Lion to win the WCC Championship in 2005. A year earlier, then-freshman Jason D’Amore captured his first individual title at the Vandal Fall Classic.

See Golf | Page 15