Swinging Bridge Magazine: May 2018

8 MY STORY BELOSAN JEKALE

18 BEEF INDUSTRY D I F F I C U LT C O N V E R S AT I O N S

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RING BY SPRING

AT H L E T E E D I T I O N

THE

SWINGING B R I DG E THE PULSE MAGAZINE MAY 2018

12 G R A D U AT I O N looking back & moving forward

Worried about missing ___________________ during your summer days?

Keep up to date with campus happenings online at pulse.messiah.edu (ANSWER: THE SWINGING BRIDGE MAGAZINE)

Being away from campus doesn’t mean you have to miss out on listening in on _____________________.

New artists are added into our rotation every week! Tune in online at pulse.messiah.edu/pulsefm (ANSWER: PULSE FM)

WE

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THE

SWINGING B R I DG E VOLU M E 1 0 0

EDITION 6

STUDENT DIRECTOR MIKAELA MUMMERT

M AY 2 0 1 8

ASST. STUDENT DIRECTOR DAKOTA VAUGHN

ART DIRECTOR GRACE DEMMER

DESIGN ASSISTANTS CARLY KRAIHANZEL

STUDENT LIFE EDITOR MAEGAN NEGRON

JACQUE SAUDER CULTURE EDITOR TARA KLEINMANNS

AMELIA MARKEY

SPORTS & REC EDITOR MEGAN BOMBA

AUDIO & VISUAL MANAGER AUSTEN BOWER WEB MANAGER KELLY WEBBER

AUDIO & VISUAL ASSISTANTS BUSINESS MANAGER DAN HUSMANN MARISA HARRIS KAI YUEN LEONG

DESIGN MANAGER, YEARBOOK KERRI DENTON

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S

When I look back on my four years of college, it’s been one unknown journey after another. I began these four years in Philadelphia as a fashion major. Though I still have a shopping addiction that irritates my parents to no end, never did 18year-old-me think I’d be where I am now.

We are looking forward to new schedules in the fall, new housing situations and a new year, while still finishing up the current semester. Seniors are looking forward to beginning careers or continuing their educations here or elsewhere. Whether you’ll be returning to Messiah or saying goodbye to Grantham, change is ahead.

raduation is always a reflective time for those of us ending our college career and heading out into the world.

And I’ve found myself doing just that these past few weeks.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF BECKY KIMMEL

ONLINE EDITOR MADDIE CONLEY

LETTER from the EDITORS

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER KAITLYN WOLF

But, I’m happy for this change and feel like maybe I found where I’m supposed to fit in this crazy, big world.

I once heard a quote that went something like, “Journalism is like the first rough draft of history.” I like the sound of that.

It’s been a pleasure to serve as Editor-in-Chief of this magazine. And I hope that, through reading each issue, you learned even a fraction of all that I have.

Monday - Friday | 1pm - 5pm 717-691-6081 1 COLLEGE AVENUE SUITE 3058 MECHANICSBURG, PA 17055

(Downstairs South Wing of the Larsen Student Union) The Swinging Bridge Magazine is published through The Pulse: Messiah College Media Hub, run by students. The Pulse consists of Pulse FM, The Clarion yearbook, and The Swinging Bridge Magazine. The Swinging Bridge staff strives to publish quality student writing, photography, and design. To learn about job and volunteer opportunities, email thepulse@messiah.edu.

If I could offer one final sentiment to each of you, it is this: Find something to be passionate about, and act on that thing.

It’s always easier to go through life not caring, but I think you’ll see there’s not much purpose to be found in that.

See you between the pages, one last time . . .

pring always brings about thoughts of change for me.

With the changing of the weather —or lack thereof this spring — and graduation soon upon us, it seems like change is all around.

For me, I will be entering my third year as a Falcon in the fall. I will be moving into an apartment for the first time, navigating the more difficult classes in my major and occupying a new position here at the Pulse.

As you may have noticed, there is a change to the name and the picture appearing with this Letter from the Editor. Transitioning from Sports Editor to full fledge Editor-In-Chief is another change I’m anticipating. I am excited to take on this new responsibility starting in the Fall!

I hope to bring change to the Swinging Bridge, to build on what Becky has already established.

So, I invite you to join me on my journey of finding what it means to lead a campus magazine at Messiah.

Race me to the back cover,

Becky Kimmel Editor-In-Chief

Megan Bomba Future Editor-In-Chief THE SWINGING BRIDGE

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STUDENT LIFE

CULTURE

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CONTENTS PHOTO BY ERICA ENGLE

TABLE

CAMPUS CLOSET COUPLES’ FASHION

6

MESSIAH STUDENTS ON: BEING BILINGUAL IN AMERICA

MY STORY

BELOSAN JEKALE

1₂

GRADUATION

LOOKING BACK, MOVING FORWARD

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PIXAR’S COCO

A NEW SPIN ON FAMILY MOVIES

1

DIFFICULT CONVERSATIONS HOW DOES MY DIET AFFECT THE PLANET?

THE INTERNATIONAL BANQUET

OPIOID EPIDEMIC IN PENNSYLVANIA

SPORTS & REC

6

STAND-OUT SENIORS

THE YEAR IN REVIEW

30

RING BY SPRING ATHLETE EDITION

STUDENT LIFE

CA MPUS CLOSET

BY MEGAN BOMBA

FOREVER 21

MADEWELL

J CREW URBAN OUTFITTERS

PACSUN

PIPER & SCOOT

FOREVER 21 GAP

CALLED TO SURF

ADIDAS OUTLET

V I RGI L A NGELE S & M A DISON H A R LOW “I he lp e d h i m pic k out h i s out f it , a nd I k ne w he w a s w e a r i ng de n i m , s o I ju s t s t uc k w it h bl ac k a nd w h ite ,” Harlow says about the process of picking their outfits for the picture.

Virgil Angeles and Madison Harlow opt for classic styles as they get dressed in the morning. They share the belief that dressing up equals a better mood and better self esteem for the day. They have sworn off sweats because of this belief. Both sporting a staple denim, they choose different ways to incorporate it into their outfits. Angeles has embraced minimalism as he has matured, seen with his denim-on-denim. He strives for complete outfit coordination, down to the shoes. Harlow layers a jean jacket over a turtleneck, paired with black jeans to offset the jacket. She provides a pop of color on her toes, choosing a maroon pair of patent oxfords. The couple has struggled to find the happy medium for this pre-spring fashion, but agreed that the best way to dress in this ever-changing climate is by finding a hybrid. Definitely a great tip for all those who are having similar trouble getting dressed in the morning!

K E V I N LYO N & GA B BY K U RT Z “I f I w or e fe m a le c lot he s , t he y w ou ld pr ob a bl y b e G abb y ’s c lot he s ,” explains Lyon.

Gabby Kurtz and Kevin Lyon have been dating for over a year, during which Kurtz has helped Lyon develop his personal style. Before, Lyon would appear in the typical t-shirt and cargo shorts combination that is the norm for high school guys.

Now, as seen in the photo, Lyon has learned to piece together a noteworthy outfit even amidst the struggle of getting dressed with only the flashlight on his iPhone while his roommates sleep. They both favor basics in neutral tones as the basis of their outfits, making sure to give off a “young professional” vibe. Kurtz has chosen green distressed pants to make the outfit trendy, with a striped blouse and brown boot-mule hybrid.

Lyon matches black jeans with a pine green oxford over a grey sweater, also adding brown boots. If they were to match by accident, it is usually involving black jeans, a similar top and boots.

.

THE SWINGING BRIDGE

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STUDENT LIFE

Messiah Students on:

BEING BILINGUAL I N

A M E R I C A

BY CHARMAINE LIM

T

he ability to switch from one language to another is a dream for some, but for others it’s just a part of daily life. Being bilingual is about far more than just speaking two languages fluently; with it comes the gradual understanding of a new culture, a new world and people different from ourselves.

Even if the path to bilingualism is different for each person, those who do reach fluency can speak to a new appreciation for culture that they would not otherwise have.

“To me, it’s something that’s always been natural,” says Jemi Lui, sophomore middlelevel education major.

Like many other international students on campus, Lui came from a country where being bilingual was the norm. Growing up in Hong Kong, where Cantonese and English are the national languages and Mandarin is commonly taught in schools, she was used to always being surrounded by other bilingual people.

“It was natural to know two or three languages at least, growing up,” Lui says.

“If you only knew one, you had problems.”

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In Hong Kong, it’s common for students to speak either English or Cantonese at home and with their friends and learn basic Mandarin in school. If a student chooses not to take Mandarin as their foreign language, they can choose from Spanish, French or German as some of the most commonly taught languages.

“English is my first language now,” Lui says. “But, I actually only spoke Mandarin for the first two or three years of my life.

My extended family spoke Mandarin, my parents spoke to me in English because they grew up in the States and I learned Cantonese because that [is] what’s spoken in Hong Kong.”

According to a 2015 article by the Pew Research Center, learning a second language in America can depend on your state and school district. That results in inconsistent nation-wide language education and lower levels of bilingualism in high schools across the country.

Students who are required to take a language class in high school and college might view it as more of an inconvenience than a chance to learn about a different culture, but this is not the case for everyone.

STUDENT LIFE

“Our culture and language is all a big mix from other cultures and languages.”

Hosana Kawashima, a junior double major in Biblical and Religious studies and Peace and Conflict Studies, says that learning English at an earlier age than most other Japanese children made her stand out.

“I was excited all the time,” Kawashima says. “I was able to make more friends.

Standing out was fun.”

For those who learned a second language later in life, this process can look very different.

“I’ve been able to [converse] in Spanish since I was 17,” Elizabeth Zimmerman, sophomore English-Spanish double major, says. “But I didn’t really consider myself bilingual until I studied abroad in Spain.”

Though she began learning Spanish at the age of 11, Zimmerman says that learning through a textbook wasn’t very effective for her. It wasn’t until she was able to

communicate in Spanish through an online class with other students that she began the journey to fluency.

“I expected [being bilingual] to feel differently,” Zimmerman says. “But, I realized I’m at the level where it’s acceptable to call myself bilingual because I can get cultural context and slang, have conversations with people and learn in Spanish.”

In 2015, Pew Research also released a survey of 291 million people in America and found that while 231 million people speak only English at home, over 60 million people speak a language other than English at home. Of that 60 million, more than half speak a variation of Spanish, almost 16 percent speak Indo-European languages, around 15 percent speak an Asian language and the remaining three percent speak other languages.

“There are so many more opportunities when you have a second language,” Lui says. “Yes, there are job opportunities, but you also learn so much about the culture that the language comes from. It expands your worldview so much.”

“Living in this country — a multilingual, multicultural country — it means that more people from other cultures are coming,” Kawashima says. “I think that to help those people and be friends with them, being bilingual will definitely help.”

However, it is still important to understand that speaking a language doesn’t automatically make one an expert in that culture.

“Even if you’re bilingual, even if you can translate word for word, you still have to be mindful of the culture,” Kawashima says. “Language and culture are tightly connected, but still, the local culture has different norms.”

In a country where immigration is becoming more common, the need to learn new languages is becoming increasingly important. No longer is it about fulfilling an academic requirement, but rather learning about our neighbors and finding ways to accept others into this country.

“I think it’s an irony that Americans are so narrow-minded and nationalistic,” Zimmerman says. “Our culture and language is all a big mix from other cultures and language. It wouldn’t make sense [not to] engage with those other cultures because we were called the ‘melting pot’ during the immigration influx, and people are beginning to forget that.”

There is a whole other world out there that can be experienced through learning a new language.

“I think you can stand to learn more about other people,” Lui says.

If we can think about learning Japanese and Korean for the sake of understanding anime and Korean dramas, we can learn about other languages and cultures to understand our friends and neighbors.

231 MILLION speak only English at home

over 60 MILLION speak a language other than English at home

a variation >50% speak of spanish an indo16% speak european language an asian 15% speak language THE SWINGING BRIDGE

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STUDENT LIFE

MY_ ST0RY

BY BELOSAN JEKALE AND MAEGAN NEGRON

Three countries, two languages, one culture and one decision that will change the course of her future.

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STUDENT LIFE

INVESTED IN HER LOVE AND PASSION for her family, friends and education, and with plans for the future, she would have never expected to live the life she has thus far — to abandon all she knew to study in a country she had never visited, for the greater good of a plan she did not then know God had in store for her.

THIS IS HER STORY.

“I

was actually born in Norway and lived there for the first five years of my life. After those first five years and completing primary school, better known as pre-K in the US, my family uprooted and moved back to our ancestral country of Ethiopia. I studied in Ethiopia until sophomore year, but decided to transfer to Lancaster Mennonite school my junior year of high school. I had never even visited this country but knew that the opportunity was greater than my fear.

Growing up with an Ethiopian education, it was customary for teachers to move up with their students and for everyone to know everyone else. We had the same uniform, schedule and the same friends since childhood. We studied with a British curriculum and were tested in practical ways to ensure we knew the information inside and out.

Moving to the U.S. for my junior year was a culture shock I wasn’t necessarily prepared for. Suddenly I could wear whatever I wanted, everyone had a friend group and education was based on how well you could take tests. It was weird to see how friendships formed. Cliques were based on how you identified yourself rather than knowing each other since birth. Walking to every class was weird, and I never had the same teacher twice in one day.

I chose to come here because I knew that academically, my opportunity was almost endless. I initially came to this country dead-set on being a lawyer. That plan however was discarded upon the realization that the laws [here] are drastically different than those in Ethiopia, so my education would be virtually useless back home.

THE SWINGING BRIDGE

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STUDENT LIFE

I envisioned Ethiopia as a country FULL OF

to grow

POTENTIAL in technology.

I was at a loss and did not know the direction in which I wanted to take my life. That is until I visited an uncle who lived in the states. He talked about his love of computers, technology and the endless possibilities in [the] ever-growing cyber business. His passion and drive convinced me to take a computer programming class in school.

It’s funny, as much as I loved the community aspect of my education in Ethiopia, the ability to choose my courses and the direction I wanted to take my life was much more liberating than I anticipated.

Electives are nonexistent in Ethiopia, so had I not come here I would’ve missed my chance to find a passion for computers that I was unaware I had.

When I succeeded in my programming courses, my motivation to advance grew.

I realized that this new drive was not about me at all. I started to think about my family back home and how Ethiopia in general had closed themselves off from a world of possibilities [by] neglecting to advance with technology.

I envisioned Ethiopia as a country full of potential to grow in technology. A place where people would learn to embrace change instead of run from it. That became my dream — to change the mindset of Ethiopia from naïve, to novelty.

The only piece missing was a school to help me achieve this goal.

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STUDENT LIFE

TAKE IT FROM ME: I decided to look into schools that would allow me to further my skills in computer technology and landed upon Georgia Tech. It was everything I ever wanted — advanced, fast paced and ever changing. My head was 100 percent in love with the idea of graduating from this school, but my heart was telling me something different.

Faith and family are the two most important things in my life, so when my sister mentioned Messiah College, the school she attended, there was a natural attraction. Messiah had my sister, my faith and my major, but I wanted to carve my own path.

I decided to put Messiah on the back burner for the majority of the decision making. As deadlines approach[ed] I couldn’t help but feel pulled in a million different directions with no clear path. I reconsidered Messiah and after weeks of thinking and praying, I came to the conclusion that this was the only school in which God allowed my head and my heart to align.

My life has been full of scary and uncomfortable decisions, but I once heard someone say, ‘It’s not about where you’re comfortable, it’s about where you are uncomfortable. That is the only way change can happen.’

That is exactly what I want — to make a difference and to spark change in those who [don’t know] about the endless opportunities that await in the cyber industry.

I have come to realize that my future is not about my comfort . . . I would love for others to be inspired to be willing to be uncomfortable because I can assure you that the outcome will be greater than the process.

fear will be the one thing that might make you miss out on a dream you did not even know you had.

Take it from me, fear will be the one thing that might make you miss out on a dream you did not even know you had.”

The choice to switch from [law] to cyber security, as well as from Georgia Tech to Messiah were both decisions that have massively impacted my life. It’s scary to think that had I decided not to come to the U.S., I might have missed my chance in discovering my passion.

THE SWINGING BRIDGE

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STUDENT LIFE

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STUDENT LIFE

GRADUATION looking back, moving forward

BY TARA KLEINMANNS & BECKY KIMMEL

O

n May 19th, 750 students will exchange four years of hard work for graduation caps and gowns. For some, this long-anticipated moment cannot come soon enough, and signals an exciting transition to bigger and better things. Others who are more reluctant to leave college life behind dread walking across the stage to receive a diploma. The extremes of emotion that strike seniors during this phase of life are almost inexplicable. Many look back fondly on positive experiences, and many others encounter regret over those campus traditions they just never got around to experiencing.

The Pulse interviewed some seniors from different programs and perspectives to find out what made their time at Messiah so special, and what advice they would give to those whose time at Messiah is not quite finished.

From Left to Right: Junmey Wang Corey LaQuay Kelly Shea Paul Smith

THE SWINGING BRIDGE

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STUDENT LIFE

JAMIE-CLAIRE CHAU:

KELLY SHEA:

student body president

What’s something you wish you would have done while at Messiah?

What’s something you wish you would have done while at Messiah?

I wish I went on a long road trip or backpacking adventure to somewhere fascinating with good friends. I wish I met strangers and ate strange foods with people I trust. I wish I had busked with friends on a street full of people I’ll never see again.

I wish I had gone sledding down Cemetery Hill. It’s my one regret.

What’s the most rebellious thing you’ve done in college?

When half the road was blocked off near Eisenhower, I drove the wrong way through the one-way construction zone.

I once skinny-dipped in the breeches with my best friend.

We won’t discuss this any further.

What excites you most about post-grad?

I’ve learned how to talk the talk. I’ve learned how to sound like I care about justice in the world, for people and creation. Now I want to see how this talk can walk, and what it really looks like to do the work of restoring shalom in society, against a culture opposed.

Do you have a piece of advice for underclassmen?

Learn outside of the classroom, because that will be the best way to prepare you for life. Take initiative to ask your professor crush to coffee and listen to all the wealth of experience and knowledge they have. Grab opportunities to go places, especially if they’re free or discounted. Study abroad, go on excursions, get internships, visit out-ofcomfort zone churches, attend other colleges’ events, eat at Taco Mi Tierra and shop at Asia Mall. Ditch class one day to have a life-changing conversation with someone with an amazing story. Take charge in a club especially when you feel you’re not ready.

298

seniors hav e studied abroad (according to the Intercultural Office database)

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worship leader

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2018

What’s the most rebellious thing you’ve done in college?

What excites you most about post-grad?

I’m excited about putting what I’ve learned and studied here at Messiah into practice. I’m also excited for a new set of responsibilities, and for carrying out what I believe God’s call is on my life.

Do you have a piece of advice for underclassmen?

Have a learner’s mindset and make use of the resources around you! There are so many students, educators and opportunities here. Maximize your use of the fitness center, library and office hours. Partner up with students to learn from one another and strengthen what you desire to learn.

top 5 majors (CLASS OF 2018) 1

ENGINEERING

4

APPLIED HEALTH SCIENCE

2

NURSING

5

BIOLOGY

3

BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

g

STUDENT LIFE

PAUL SMITH:

RICH SPEEN EY:

adventure education/ the loft team

host of late night with rich speeney

What’s something you wish you would have done while at Messiah?

What’s something you wish you would have done while at Messiah?

Slowed down a little more. These four years fly by and then they’re just memories to look back on.

I wish I kissed a girl in the Boyer basement.

What’s the most rebellious thing you’ve done in college?

What’s the most rebellious thing you’ve done in college?

Los Banditos forever. I really can’t disclose much on this question unfortunately, but I’d say I’ve contributed more than a fair share in sponsorship (in the form of fines) to that new fitness center.

Hmm, did ResLife tell you to ask me this question? All I can say is that the ceiling of my apartment is a beautiful sky blue color. No idea how it got that way, but it’s nice and homey in there.

What excites you the most about post-grad?

What excites you the most about post-grad?

Getting the fresh opportunity to pour into and invest in communities and connections made throughout my time in college. And to go surfing A LOT more.

I’m excited to spend more time with people that don’t know Jesus. There’s so much value in Christian college, but this type of atmosphere is meant to be a training ground, not a permanent retreat. I’m looking forward to taking what I’ve learned here and going out to use it to “be good news” to those around me.

Do you have a piece of advice for underclassmen?

Just don’t take yourself or life in general too seriously. They’re gonna keep trying to get you to buy what they’re selling so, I mean, don’t. And turn the music up a little louder while you’re at it. Sometime when you get the chance, look up Ecclesiastes 4:6.

Do you have a piece of advice for underclassmen?

My advice would be to follow Christ, not the culture.

It’s easy at Christian college to just go with the flow and assume that because you’re here you are growing in your faith. Instead of following the crowd and the religious norms, relentlessly seek to follow Jesus daily, to grow in intimacy with the Father and to make disciples. P.S. You’ll probably have to get out of the bubble and your comfort zone to do this!

TH

61% graduating class 49% male

graduating class 51% female

where the senior class is from PA: 61% MARYLAND: 10% NEW JERSEY: 7%

THE SWINGING BRIDGE

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STUDENT LIFE

COREY LAQUAY:

JUNMEY WANG:

graphic designer for sab

What’s something you wish you would have done while at Messiah?

What’s something you wish you would have done while at Messiah?

In my last year or two at Messiah, I’ve taken a few courses related to social justice and human rights issues. These classes opened my eyes to important topics that I hadn’t really thought about or talked about much beforehand.

I would have loved to help facilitate these conversations with other students on campus. If I wasn’t already a part of SAB, I think it would have been great to be a part of Multicultural Council or Human Rights Awareness.

I wish I became friends with professors sooner! Up until junior year, I had this strange fear of being myself and being vulnerable with professors. I felt like I always had to have something smart to say, or that I had to maintain a reverent teacher-learner distance from them because that’s just how it is.

What’s the most rebellious thing you’ve done in college?

I’ve definitely climbed a few academic buildings in my day.

What excites you most about post-grad?

I’m really looking forward to living and working in Philly as a graphic designer, meeting new people and pursuing passions/interests that I haven’t had time for during college. I think a change of pace is going to be really refreshing. There will certainly be challenges, but I feel prepared. I’m so thankful and privileged to be able to approach post-grad life with an optimistic mindset.

Do you have a piece of advice for underclassmen?

Don’t be hesitant to broaden your horizons! I think a lot of students get caught up in the everyday rhythms of college life and forget to seek out new and exciting things. Find ways to get off campus every once and awhile, listen to new music, look at art, read and immerse yourself in culture!

entire class of 2018 750 students

16

international students association coordinator at isa / mukappa

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2018

In my time at Messiah, I’ve formed friendships with professors who are genuinely interested in me as a human being, rather than me as a student. They are able to share from their own experiences, support me on my own journey, and hopefully I’m able to be somewhat of a student-teacher to them. I’ve learned so much more from conversations with them than I have in classrooms.

What’s the most rebellious thing you’ve done in college?

When I was studying abroad in the UK, I took a bus in the middle of the night, without my phone or anything, to a quiet part of the city to meet a stranger in an abandoned park. He was going to sell me his guitar for 25 pounds.

What excites you most about post-grad?

Living in and learning about a new city! Also, meeting new people. Besides that, it’s mostly looming and extreme fear of the unknown — let’s be real.

Do you have a piece of advice for underclassmen?

Prioritize relationships. Spend less time overthinking — it’s okay to make mistakes. Put yourself in spaces that make you uncomfortable. Ask yourself why you feel uncomfortable. Change your mind or attitude or approach, and just strive to do better and to love better.

CULTURE

BY MADELINE SPIVEY he muffled weeps of students broke through the darkness of Parmer Cinema as the final moments of the Lost Film, Disney-Pixar’s “Coco,” lingered on the screen.

What prompted this overflow of emotional response seems to be something more than just another feel-good movie. Though Coco was released in November of 2017, it continues to receive praise and awards.

Most recently, it won the coveted “Best Animated Feature Film” award at the 90th Academy Awards.

In the “Coco” acceptance speech, director Lee Unkirch shared his thoughts on the inspiration behind the film.

“With Coco, we tried to take a step forward toward a world where all children can grow up seeing characters in movies that look and talk and live like they do,” he said.

This story stands out among a plethora of other films aimed at families, as it follows the journey of a young Mexican boy named Miguel on Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead.

Miguel discovers what it means to remember and cherish his family, those present in his life and those who have passed, during and beyond this traditional celebration.

Scenes brimming with fantastical elements are steeped in culture that lines up with a traditional holiday originating in Mexico.

For example, petals from the cempazuchitl flower, one commonly associated with Día de los Muertos, serve as Miguel’s guide to and from the land of the dead. The alebrijes, fantastical crafted creatures originally made in Mexico, also make an appearance as real-life “spirit guides” living in the afterlife. Famous Mexican artist Frida Kahlo also appears in the film, again recognizing and celebrating the Mexican culture.

A brief comedic reference to “la chancla,” the traditional Latino form of child discipline by use of a flip flop or sandal, provides another key cultural insight.

Perhaps the most central and heartwarming aspect of this story is the emphasis on family connection. The family’s ofrenda, an altar and offering dedicated to past family members, stands proudly, serving as a beautiful shrine to family gone but not forgotten.

Throughout the film, Miguel holds a dream to “seize his moment” and disobey his family traditions in order to become what he believes is his destiny. By the end of the movie, through a series of surprising events, Miguel has a change of heart and learns to appreciate not only his family and ancestors, but also his culture and traditions. This film allows audience members to learn alongside Miguel.

Disney took on the challenge of addressing a celebration misunderstood by many, and turned it into an appropriate and refreshing story from which people of all cultures can learn.

If the evocative response of Messiah students at this Lost Film’s showing is any indication, it seems Disney films like this one are moving in a direction that explores themes of identity and culture, beyond their typical plotlines and characters.

With this cultural celebration of Mexico now an addition to the Disney collection, the future of family films seems brighter and more diverse.

THE SWINGING BRIDGE

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CULTURE

diff i HOW DOES MY DIET AFFECT MY PLANET?

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M AY

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CULTURE

f icult

conversations

BY BECKY KIMMEL

a

t this point in the climate change discussion, most people can agree with scientists that the climate of this planet is changing — and that is thanks to human activities.

Carbon emissions, plastic waste, contaminated streams and oceans — you have probably heard all of these things. But, what if the food you put on your plate every day was a factor too?

What if our carnivorous diets have a lot more to do with deforestation and air pollution than we ever knew?

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Research by the environmental research organization WorldWatch Institute says that if you were to subtract oil and gas, electricity and fossil fuels from the climate equation, scientists predict we’ll still exceed our maximum greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 — all from the raising and eating of livestock.

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Studies by the U.S. Department of Agriculture have also found animal agriculture to be responsible for 80 to 90 percent of consumptive water use in the United States, and that nearly half of continental U.S. land is used for for grazing, pastures or crops for animal agriculture.

And if we add the amount of waste generated, things start to look gloomier still.

The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that a farm with 2,500 dairy cows produces the same amount of waste as a city of 411,000 people.

That’s almost 150 times the amount of undergraduate students here at Messiah.

But we can’t call animal farming the sole culprit of our wasteful ways. Director and Professor of Sustainability Brandon Hoover says we are actually throwing away 40 percent of all food produced in the United States.

Hoover reminds us, though, that there’s an entire system at play here.

“Agriculture isn’t just about cow manure.

You have to think about it in terms of the whole system. You have to think about the corn and soy and other commodity crops that require a massive amount of fossil fuel in the form of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. And, the diesel fuel required to run the tractor,” he says.

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And as consumers, it’s up to us to be smart about the food decisions we make — whether that means buying organic, opting for a salad over that T-bone steak or even ditching Walmart for the local farmers market.

It’s easy to become so far removed from where our food comes from when it all magically appears on the shelves at the grocery store, and our sizzling hot plates at the steakhouse.

“How often do we thank God for the land that produced our food?” Hoover asks.

For Don Opitz, Campus Pastor and Sustainability board-member, it all comes down to what he calls, “living smaller.”

“There’s this greed that’s built right into our lifestyle — we need to recognize that first,” Opitz says. “We eat, buy and waste more than the land we live on can sustain. That’s where we need a renewal of this ‘small is beautiful’ mentality. [Let’s] stop waiting for national government to decide, and act locally.”

But of course this isn’t easy. What we eat is integral to our everyday lives, some would even say it’s who we are. So, this isn’t a change that will happen overnight, or even one that most people are comfortable making.

“It’s the American way to say ‘you can’t tell me what to do, I’ll make my own decisions.’ And we don’t [always] like to be culpable for our own actions.” Hoover says. “It’s easy to say, the system is this and I’m not part of that system, [but we] need to realize our actions are a part of a larger system. We have to change culture and systems.”

“How often God for the produced For Luke Brubaker, of Brubaker Farms in Lancaster County, he saw his 1,000cow dairy farm as an opportunity to do just that.

His farm uses a methane digester to collect the waste from the cows as fast as possible, and push it practically a mile underground. There it goes through a digester and is converted into a form readily available to use on the plants and fields on his farm, as well as for energy.

The digester makes enough electricity for the farm, and what’s leftover is sold onto the grid, supplying electricity for 150-200 homes in the area, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

This process saves fossil fuels that would be used for electricity and powering the tractors on the farm, and also saves large amounts of methane from escaping into the air.

But that’s not all Brubaker Farms does for conservation. The farm also runs partly on energy generated by solar panels on the roofs. Streambank fencing is installed to keep manure and other waste from running into the creeks and streams — ensuring clean local waterways.

The farm even buys all the leftover food from Elizabethtown College and puts that in the digester — generating energy from it and keeping it out of a landfill.

When Brubaker began these practices about eight years ago, he recalls there only being about 110 dairy farms operating similarly in the United States.

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do we thank land that our food?”

“There might be ten or fifteen more now, but if you think about it, there are 5,0006,000 dairy farms just in Pennsylvania,” Brubaker says.

When asked why more farms don’t operate this way, he says it is expensive to put in a digester, so farmers are taking a chance if they do. But, it’s a chance that paid off for Brubaker Farms.

“If we can do something that is economically beneficial and helps the environment, then it’s good for all of us. That’s kind of our slogan,” he says.

Chances are most of you don’t run a dairy farm, but that doesn’t mean these practices have nothing to do with you.

Each one of us has a responsibility here.

You could think about supporting farms and businesses who are environmentally aware and operate sustainably.

You could try one of the vegetarian options that Lottie or the Union offers, and suggest that they offer more.

You could try to buy your produce or dairy products from a local farm, instead of grabbing whatever is the Bonus Buy this week at Giant.

But, it all starts with realizing that yes, my actions have consequences, and also that yes, I care about the planet around me.

And if you do care about the environment, but think it hard to find ways to act, because maybe you can’t afford an electric car, or don’t have a house on which to don solar panels, tweaking your diet could be a way for you to play your part in being a steward of this earth.

“Get to know your ecosystem, get your hands dirty. And start to learn food culture, not foodie culture,” Hoover says.

“It’s easier not to change, that’s true for everyone,” Opitz reminds us. But then he goes on to ask if taking the easy way out is really the right move.

“We were made to love, but made to love what? Yes, our neighbors, but also creation,” Opitz says. “People are to be doing the right things for the right reasons, and the core reason is love. It’s always been love,” he says.

It’s easy to become so far removed from where our food comes from when it all magically appears on the shelves at the grocery store, and our sizzling hot plates at the steakhouse. * If this interests you, Brandon Hoover will be teaching a class next J-term titled Food Power and Society, where you can learn more about the systems behind our everyday food consumption.

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INTERNATIONAL BANQUET

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EPIDEMIC

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IN PA

BY RAQUELLE GONZALEZ

overnor Tom Wolf declared a state of emergency for Pennsylvania in January 2018 due to the rapid increase of opiate-related deaths. The opioid crisis has been prevalent in the nation over the past few years, but its impact on the state of Pennsylvania specifically is cause for alarm.

According to the Center for Disease Control, Pennsylvania has the fourth highest overdose rate in the entire country to date. 5,260 people died from opiate-induced overdoses in 2017 alone.

Disaster emergencies are predominantly called for during severe weather events, such as hurricanes, or during terrorist attacks, but the persistence of this crisis makes it the first of its kind.

County Coroner records suggest the number of overdoses in Dauphin County jumped from 85 in 2016, to 102 in 2017. These chilling numbers place the need for opiate addict support programs and aid at an all-time high.

In a press statement, Governor Wolf said, “I don’t take this action lightly. We know that this crisis has taken far too many lives. It has decimated far too many communities and it has gone on for too long.”

The declaration of a disaster emergency waives certain requirements that were previously in place for the roughly 800 treatment facilitators throughout the state of Pennsylvania. The hope is that these waived requirements will make help more accessible to those struggling with opioid addiction.

THIS REFLECTS A 15 PERCENT INCREASE FROM 2016.

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Dauphin County spent nearly $20 million to help the roughly 3,000 people who suffer from opiate addiction in the county — a 400 percent increase in those seeking out help and recovery programs from just five years ago.

Currently, the county is in the process of suing 11 drug manufacturers and doctors who have marketed opioid sales to residents of the county and state. Many of these companies sell and prescribe opioids in search of huge profits, prioritizing monetary gain over health and wellness.

The governor’s administration is seeking to fight the opioid crisis through the implementation of a drug monitoring program, with the intention of cutting down on patients with opiate addictions.

They also hope to minimize “doctor shopping,” a term used to describe patients who visit multiple doctors and obtain multiple prescriptions to feed their addictions.

Highmark, one of the three most dominant health insurers in the central Pennsylvania region, started limiting new opioid prescriptions in the beginning of the year. For prescription holders, this means being limited to receiving only a seven-day supply of certain prescriptions in an attempt to limit further addiction disasters.

According to an announcement from Highmark, members will be required to obtain authorization for extensions if those members have not previously been on an opioid prescription with the company.

Governments and health insurers alike are implementing various measures to counteract the negative effects of these dangerous drugs. Local and statewide efforts are growing in force and number to counteract the opioid abuse crisis. But as the severity continues, citizens of Pennsylvania and beyond continue wondering what — if anything — will be the cure for this drug abuse sweeping the nation.

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STAND-OUT

SEN I O R ATH L ET ES

BY MEGAN BOMBA

MEN’S SOCCER KIRBY ROBBINS is becoming a Graduate Assistant with Eastern University’s Men’s Soccer Team, where he’ll coach alongside Messiah Men’s Soccer alumni and pursue a two-year master’s degree.

DAKOTA ROSENBERG is looking for a graduate position or internship in collegiate athletic training field.

“Our seniors this year did a brilliant job of modeling our core values, and led by example of what it means to be fully committed to both meaningful relationships and the pursuit of excellence. I’m so proud of who they are as young men and look forward to the impact they have on their communities after graduation.” — Coach McCarty

FIELD HOCKEY CARISSA GEHMAN is attending graduate school at Messiah for occupational therapy.

KRISTIN DONOHUE is attending graduate school at Messiah for doctorate of physical therapy.

NICOLE WILKERSON is working as an athletic trainer while continuing to coach high school over the summer.

TAYLOR HOLT is attending graduate school for Occupational Therapy at Thomas Jefferson University.

“The seniors have provided excellent leadership both on and off the field. They really set the tone for this past season, yet their influence has been evident through their entire collegiate experience. The seniors elevated our play and set the standard of excellence for the program.” — Coach Good

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CROSS COUNTRY + TRACK AND FIELD

RACHEL AUKAMP is attending graduate school and pursuing an Environmental Engineering PhD. AARON GRAY is pursuing a masters degree in athletic leadership while serving as a graduate assistant in the Athletic Communications Department.

“Our senior members’ modeling of commitment to team unity, dedication to yearround training and wisdom from their past experiences on our teams is vital to the Christ-centered and team-enriched culture of our team. The seniors definitely impact the spirit of our team dynamic and athletic success, and this year’s graduating class has fostered a very positive atmosphere and competitive success. They will be missed, but they leave a legacy of how to model and lead well for next year’s seniors.” — Coach Fogelsanger

MEN’S VOLLEYBALL TRAVIS HOOVER is pursuing the MD program at Penn State College of Medicine, for either pediatrics or ophthalmology.

LOGAN HUNSBERGER is working with Push the Rock Ministries as a coach.

“Our seniors have been extremely influential in helping us build the culture of Messiah men’s volleyball. We were in need of good senior leadership to transition smoothly from club to NCAA Division III, and we received that from this year’s group. Despite having only played one year of NCAA Division III volleyball, this group of seniors has left a lasting impact on the program.” — Coach Beachy

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL HANNAH BROWN is enrolling in Central Penn Occupational Therapy Assistant program while coaching basketball at Mechanicsburg High School.

JEN FAIRBANKS is completing an internship with Capital Blue Cross Insurance.

KAITLYN HOFF is attending Palmer College of Chiropractic in Iowa.

“HB, Jen and Kait were a wonderful team of leaders. Individually and collectively they enhanced the team spiritually. They worked hard to be a tight cohesive group, and they kept the group on task. This success of this year on and off the court does not happen without them.” —Coach Miller

MEN’S BASKETBALL MATT HESS is working at an accounting firm while studying for the CPA exam.

NEIL MURREN is deciding between either Graduate school for Kinesiology at LSU or working for Training Leaders through Athletics ministry.

“All four of the seniors are really special people and I am excited to watch them grow and to stay in touch with them as they get jobs, get married, start families…I personally will miss being able to spend several hours a day with them, but their friendship is something that I will cherish for many, many years to come. I hope that they will come back often!” — Coach Van Pelt

SOFTBALL ALYSSA HAMILTON is planning to get a job teaching, hopefully in special education.

CARRIE FIX is pursuing Messiah’s Doctorate in Physical Therapy graduate program this fall.

NATALIE LAMOREAUX is planning to attend graduate school for physical therapy and use it for missionary work in the future.

AMBER BINGAMAN is looking for a job in the business/marketing field as well as a

CULTURE SPORTS & REC possible assistant coaching position in Austin, Texas this summer.

“We will miss our seniors as each of them has contributed in their own unique way to the Messiah Softball program on and off the field. They have brought lots of energy, dedication and commitment to the team and have helped to shape our program for the better.” — Coach Weaver

WRESTLING JEFF HOJNACKI is working at a financial services firm in Ohio called Stratos Wealth Partners, where he will be in a business development and advisory operations role.

HUNTER HARRIS plans to pursue either a master’s degree in public health (application pending), or a career in Health/Wellness Coordination. He plans to coach wrestling in the future.

“This group of seniors has been invaluable. On the mat, they are the most accomplished class in program history.

What they have accomplished has helped to bring our wrestling program to new levels on the national stage. What makes this group special, however, is what they contribute by way of character, work ethic, spiritual leadership and friendship. I truly love each one of them and don’t want to see them go.” — Coach Brunk

WOMEN’S LACROSSE KENDRA HERBENAR is going on to get her master’s degree in public health.

KYLIE HORNBARGER is applying to hospitals for registered nurse positions in the NICU.

BY EMMA MILLER

F the story found in Matthew 14:22-33

or those of us who grew up in church,

is fairly familiar. In this account, the disciples are out on a boat in a storm. Jesus comes to them walking on the water, and they think He is a ghost. Peter walks on the water toward Jesus until he starts to sink because of his fear. Jesus rescues him, they both get back in the boat, and the waves die down.

The typical Sunday School lesson from this story teaches us not to be afraid, or not to doubt God. Peter is often looked down upon because he starts to sink. However, a service trip taught me a different perspective on this story I’d heard so many times before.

All of the disciples heard Jesus say who He was. All of them heard Him say, “come,” but only Peter stepped out of the boat. Though he did start to sink, Peter was the only disciple to walk on the water at all.

Who wouldn’t be afraid in that situation? It is impressive that Peter was even willing to leave the safety and comfort of the boat in the first place.

AUDREY LIBERATI is attending the Pittsburgh Fellows program in the fall.

In what way may Jesus be calling you to metaphorically step out of the boat? How is your comfort holding you back?

“[The seniors] have worked hard to love, serve and lead the team, and in the process, each one of them have become stronger and more resilient young women who will each make an impact in their chosen profession after college. I’m so thankful the Lord brought each one of them here.”

— Coach Greer

It could be something big like going on a service trip or changing your career path.

But, it could also be something that seems small, like having a conversation with someone you don’t usually talk to or even just smiling at people as you walk to class.

It might be intimidating, but walking on the water toward Jesus is always worth it.

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THE YEAR IN

R eview

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BY LILLY KASHISHIAN

“Pursuing athletic excellence while developing Christian character,” goes the Messiah Athletics motto.

The path to excellence is not easy. Yet Messiah sports teams seem to always be at the top of their game. From National Championships, to Conference Championships, to simply proving people wrong, this year had it all.

As the semester comes to a close, come along as we take a look at the year in review for Messiah sports:

MEN’S BASKETBALL Prior to the start of the season, men’s basketball was picked last in the preseason coaches’ poll. However, as many of us know, polls can underestimate teams.

The team finished fourth in the MAC Commonwealth and saw postseason action for the first time in four years.

“The experience [of seeing postseason action] was awesome, it has been something we have worked hard to accomplish for several years, and to continue to raise the expectations for the following year is important,” says Senior guard Neil Murren.

The Falcons lost to Arcadia University 88-55 in the MAC Commonwealth play-in game, but despite the loss, the players recognize the adversity they overcame throughout the season.

Playing through injuries and proving the disbelievers wrong, the team has a lot to be proud of. Murren attributes the team’s commitment and success to three key things: “Our brotherhood and the depth of relationship that we all have with each other, our commitment to continuing to get better each day and our faith as a team,” he says. “Everybody on the team believed we could win each time we stepped out on the floor no matter what the circumstances were.”

The team holds a lot of young, rising talent, making chances of another MAC tournament appearance likely for the 2018-2019 season.

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WOMEN’S L ACROSSE The Falcons’ 2017 campaign was ended early by a loss to York College in the Sweet Sixteen of the NCAA Tournament. This season the team motto was “fight.”

“We are fighting to have each others backs, push ourselves physically and spiritually, have positive attitudes and above all, glorify God while we represent something way bigger than ourselves,” says Junior Annika Johnsen.

On March 9th, the Falcons fought against York College, the number six team in the country, and beat them 11-10 in overtime. Junior Courtney Wagner scored seven goals and Johnsen added another three goals.

“We went into that game without doubts of loss and played the entire game without doubting each other or ourselves,” says Johnsen. “The mentality during this game was focused around fighting at 100% for the next ball and our teammate beside us. After the game, our team was purely joyful.”

Expectations are high for the team, but they are ready to fight the rest of the season.

“I definitely see a deep run in the NCAA tournament,” says Johnsen. “We have a special team and we are growing skill-wise and relationally every single day. Everyday is a gift to play the sport we love together, and we don’t want to take a day for granted by just going through the motions.”

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL After winning the MAC Championship for the second straight season to solidify their spot in the NCAA Tournament, the Falcons fell to Tufts University in the Sweet Sixteen round.

The women finished the season with a 27-3 record.

The 27 wins marked the second-most in program history and were the most wins in a season since 2007-08.

During the season, Senior Kaitlyn Hoff became the 8th player in program history to score more than 1,000 points.

“It was an awesome feeling, not one I had before because I didn’t hit 1,000 career points in high

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In addition, Hoff and Junior forward Alecia Rohrer received First Team AllMAC Commonwealth and D3Hoops All-Region Honors.

“It’s a bittersweet experience,” says Hunsberger. “Not only am I ecstatic I can finally play DIII volleyball in our new gym, but having one year is like a tease. But, looking back at my experiences with our club team and the friendships I developed along the way, I wouldn’t change it for the world.”

On the defensive side, Rohrer flourished, doubling her stats in steals and blocks from the 2016-2017 season.

From a first year team to a program that is in its 10th season, there is always room to grow and learn.

“Out of season, I really push myself to improve my game whether that be in the weight room, conditioning drills or working on the court,” says Rohrer. “I work hard out of season so that when the season rolls around, I can reap the benefits of my hard work.”

“It has been a year of learning so much and bonding,” says Hunsberger. “Knowing where we came from as a club team and every alumni’s dream to play DIII volleyball only feeds my fire and reminds me how lucky and blessed I am with the opportunity God’s given me.”

school,” says Hoff. “I owe all of the credit to my teammates and coaches who helped me achieve that milestone.”

A unique aspect of the women’s basketball team this year was that it was one of the smallest teams the program has ever had.

The team consisted of 12 players, all returners from last season.

“This team was really special,” says Rohrer.

“We’ve had the same twelve people on the team the past two seasons and were really able to get to know each other at a deeper level. While we are only graduating three seniors, it is going to be different next year when we bring in several freshmen with their own unique stories and personalities.”

MEN’S VOLLEYBALL Men’s volleyball hosted its first ever NCAA match on January 27th against Lancaster Bible College. The men lost 3-1, but the atmosphere in Hitchcock Arena was like no other sporting event.

“The atmosphere at our first match was unbelievable,” says Head Coach Justin Beachy.

“The stands were packed and the crowd was very engaged. Hopefully we can continue to draw big crowds like that because it’s definitely a huge advantage for us.”

Prior to the development of the Division III volleyball team, all of the current seniors, including Logan Hunsberger, had been on the club volleyball team since they were first-year students.

WOMEN’S SWIMMING Women’s swimming claimed their fifthstraight MAC Championship title in February. The team scored more than 600 points throughout the competition, which was the third-most in program history.

“I feel more thankful than proud,” says Head Coach Katie McComb. “It was really fun at MACs just seeing their faces after they got a best time, and that feels so rewarding as a coach.”

Swimmers Kaylee Hollenbach and Kaitlin Wingert earned Rookie of the Year and Swimmer of the Year at the MAC Championships. In her first season as head coach, Katie McComb earned Coach of the Year for the conference.

“I didn’t really know what to expect coming in because I had seen the whole legacy behind Messiah swimming and what Coach Luley had built,” says Coach McComb. “I was a little intimidated, but there was a lot of growth for me just learning what my coaching style is and the philosophy behind why we do what we do.”

After their regular season and MAC performances, Cassie Cotton and Wingert earned spots to swim in the NCAA Division III Championships. There, Cotton became the first swimmer in Messiah program history to qualify for a NCAA Championship event final.

“My girls did great,” says McComb. “They didn’t really have any pressure on them to win points or anything because it wasn’t like we were trying to win the meet, but it was really fun to watch them race.”

While Wingert will graduate, Cotton will stick around and seek to defend her 100 butterfly conference title and return to the NCAA Championships next season.

MEN’S SOCCER The men’s soccer team earned its 11th NCAA Championship in December.

The Falcons battled North Park University in the Championship. They fell behind early but weren’t down for long. Goals from Justin Brautigam and Ben Haines gave Messiah a 2-1 lead after the first half, and the score would hold.

The players and coaches also received numerous end of season honors. Nick West and Cooper Robbins were named the offensive and defensive NCAA Tournament’s Most Valuable Players respectively. The coaching staff, led by Brad McCarty, received the United Soccer Coaches Division III Men’s Staff of the Year honor.

All eyes will be on the men’s soccer team as the team begins spring training and preparation for the 2018 season.

“Our mentality is always the same,” says Assistant Coach Aaron Faro. “We are seeking excellence, and define that as doing all the little things to the best of our ability.

This process-oriented focus keeps us from becoming complacent or distracted by success, and fixed on things that are within our control.”

The reigning National Champions open their 2018 season on August 31st against SUNY Cortland on Shoemaker Field.

Stay tuned as Messiah Athletics continue to strive to live out its motto, as teams prepare to chase championships next school year.

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RING BY SPRING A T H L E T E

E D I T I O N

BY ROBERT BOUFFARD

“Ring by spring,”

.

a term you’ve probably heard a lot around Messiah. It refers to a dating couple getting engaged by their last semester of their senior year. Each spring brings new couples who continue to live out the Messiah tradition.

Planning a wedding, along with regular schoolwork, a social life and other every-day responsibilities can be a lot. Both members of a couple being student athletes on top of all of this can add a whole new layer to a relationship.

Austin Mellinger, an infielder on the baseball team, and Emily Schillinger, a forward on the field hockey team, are one such couple. They got engaged this past fall semester after dating for one day short of a year.

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Mellinger took her to Cork and Fork in Harrisburg, which happens to be the location of their first date. After a walk along the river, Mellinger played Schillinger a song on his guitar and proposed with the ring that was hidden in the guitar case.

Because both are a part of a sports team, they have had to be very intentional in making their relationship grow and giving it the attention it needs.

“There is definitely that theme of sacrificing your time and the time that you want “I was very oblivious to the whole thing,” to be able to spend with each other because of the role that you have as a Schillinger said. teammate,” said Mellinger.

The wedding will be in early August and will be filled with worship throughout the They both are able to find incredible entire ceremony. The couple has always support from the people around them. appreciated weddings that emphasize the spiritual aspect of marriage, and they want “What I’ve found with being on a team is that it’s more-so just like a family, so they to bring that into their own special day. all support you so much,” Schillinger said.

“We’re both pretty big into worship, and we’ve both led worship in multiple groups The same team support can be found for Senior couple, Colin Fry and Ally Reinhardt. and on our teams,” Schillinger said.

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COLIN FRY & ALLY REINHARDT PHOTO BY LIZZY COLE

MATT HESS & CARISSA GEHMAN PHOTO BY ERICA ENGLE

AUSTIN MELLINGER & EMILY SCHILLINGER PHOTO BY KELSI KRAMER HOOVER

Fry, third baseman for the baseball team, and Reinhardt, a midfielder for the Women’s soccer team, got engaged the day after Mellinger and Schillinger.

“You cherish the moments you have together,” said Fry. “It could be five minutes or it could be two hours. And those five minutes might mean the same as those two hours because of the craziness of college athletics.”

They are enjoying their engagement, but are also looking forward to being married.

Athletics has been important for Fry and Reinhardt because they are able to understand each other due to their similar roles as athletes. It also adds a level of friendly competition within their relationship.

The wedding will be in June.

Fry’s plans for his proposal were, “elaborate in [his] eyes.” He brought Reinhardt to a coffee shop in Hershey and proposed in front of a beautiful scene of landscaping and fountains.

“I had no idea what was going on the whole time,” said Reinhardt. “Which is impressive because normally, he’s not good at keeping secrets from me!”

“It’s the only secret I’ve successfully pulled off in two and a half years,” said Fry. They are looking forward to being around loved ones at their wedding in July. Their engagement is a time that they are eager to see the end of, but they are enjoying it at the same time.

“It’s a different sense of closeness,” said Reinhardt.

Because of their responsibilities as athletes, they’ve found that their relationship needs to be flexible.

“There’s a lot of trash talking that goes on,” said Reinhardt.

Whether it’s Spike Ball, a board game or their favorite hockey teams, there is always good competition between them.

Competition in a relationship is a theme among our next athlete couple, as well.

Basketball guard Matt Hess and field hockey forward Carissa Gehman even include it on dates with things like mini golf and bowling.

“You’re always looking forward to the day when your wedding is finally [here],” said Gehman.

With Hess and Gehman both being athletes, they “understand that sometimes the sport needs to come first.”

At the same time, their sports are in different seasons, which allows them to go support each other. They are grateful for support from each other, but also from fellow teammates and family members.

“You get to know people and become good friends with [the other person’s teammates] too,” said Hess.

Any romantic relationship is a bond between two people, but athletes are able to share this unique and special bond based on something they both love: sports.

They had been dating for almost two years when Hess created a walkway with candles at Gehman’s house, where he waited, ready to propose.

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