The Beacon - Issue 18 - March 3rd

Page 1

In a Winter Wonderland Living, pages 8-9

Vol. 112, Issue 18

Dance Team works it out

The

Living, page 6

BEACON The University of Portland’s student newspaper

little person

Thursday March 3, 2011 www.upbeacon.net

B I G MESSAGE

Reality TV star, Matt Roloff from ‘Little People, Big World,’ kicks off Diversity Dialogues Week Amanda Blas Staff Writer blas13@up.edu “Little People, Big World” reality TV star Matt Roloff left such a big impression on UP students this week that many of them quoted him on their Facebook. “Watch your thoughts, for they become your words. Watch your words, for they become your actions,” Roloff said. “Watch your actions, for they become your character. Watch your character, for they become destiny. But what if we were to change the word ‘watch’ to ‘craft’?” Monday night, Roloff spoke at Buckley Center Auditorium to kick off Diversity Dialogues Week. Drawing on his own personal experiences, Roloff shared how he chose to shape his life to embrace his

differences, leaving students thinking about how they could shape their destiny when it comes to diversity as well. Born with diastrophic dysplasia, a rare form of dwarfism that affects cartilage and bone development, Roloff spent most his childhood in and out of hospitals. It was during those days that Roloff first experienced diversity, encountering people with various medical conditions. “I was submersed in diversity,” Roloff said. “At the time, I thought it was a bad thing. But looking back, it was a blessing to be surrounded by people so different.” Though Roloff attributes much of his success to the way he handled his circumstances: he initially did not accept his differences. Born to a couple of high school sweethearts and having what he described

as “the perfect specimen of a human” sister, Roloff had a hard time dealing with his condition. “I was so different that when

“I was submersed in diversity. At the time, I thought it was a bad thing. But looking back, it was a blessing to be surrounded by people so different.”

Matt Roloff

I was born, the doctors didn’t even want to show me to my mom,” Roloff said. “They were so freaked out about my short arms and short legs.” But Roloff’s family embraced him as he was, which helped him to accept himself and his condition. “I used to come home crying

because people would tease me at school that I’m short,” Roloff said. “And one day, my dad said, ‘So what? You are short!’ And I thought about it and said, ‘You know what? You’re right.’” Thanks to the support of his family, Roloff began to view his differences as empowering rather than hindering. “When it comes to diversity, there are two sides to the coin,” Roloff said. “You can practice being the victim, or you can practice the other side to be the person who’s accepting when people you encounter are different. I decided early on I wasn’t going to be a victim.” Having encountered many people who did not accept him because of his appearance, Roloff gave students some useful advice. “Submerge yourself and

Diversity Dialogues Week schedule Thursday, March 3 Heroism and Disability: A Roundtable Discussion

2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. St. Mary’s Lounge Sponsored by: Diversity Dialogues Committee

Black Student Union's Commentary of “Good Hair” By Chris Rock 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m. Franz Hall 212 Sponsored by: Black Student Union

Doing Christian Theology, Asian Style, Lecture: Eat, Pray, Love by Peter Phan 7:30 p.m. – 9 p.m. Buckley Center Auditorium Sponsored by: Theology Department

A Conversation on Nicaraguan History

8 p.m. – 9 p.m. Franz Hall 128 Sponsored by: Nicaragua Immersion Trip for Moreau Center for Service and Leadership

Friday, March 4 Noche Caribeá (Caribbean Night)

5 p.m. – 7 p.m. Mehling Hall Ballroom Sponsored by: Latin Dance Club

CPB Coffeehouse, Slam Poetry with Jon Goode

10 p.m. – 11 p.m. Location: St. Mary’s Lounge Sponsored by: CPB

See Diversity, page 2

Photos by Bryan Brenize | THE BEACON

Tuition increase announced for next year Jocelyne LaFortune Staff Writer lafortun12@up.edu The Board of Regents has approved a 4.5 percent increase in tuition for the 2011-2012 academic year, according to Denis Ransmeier, vice president for Financial Affairs. “This increase is similar to what we’ve seen in recent years,” Ransmeier said. “And I think you’ll find that other schools are seeing similar raises.” Tuition for the 2011-2012 academic year will be $33,640 for full-time undergraduate students, according to Ransmeier. In comparison, tuition for the current academic year is $32,190, according to Ransmeier. The professional tuition charge will rise from $35 to $50 per credit hour. Additionally, combined room and board charges will

also increase 4.5 percent, according to Ransmeier. The increases in tuition are due to rising costs in energy, maintenance of buildings and some salary increases, according to Ransmeier. “There are some modest salary increases that will be put in place,” Ransmeier said. “But most of the increases will go toward maintaining buildings on campus, whether that means worn out furniture or roof replacements now that we have more buildings on campus.” Additionally, changes in staff will require more funding, according to Ransmeier. “With the addition of Fr. Poorman, and John Goldrick sort of retiring, we’ll need a little more funding.” Ransmeier said. “And there are a couple new positions with the RISE Campaign that will also require some funds.”


2

NEWS

March 3, 2011

On On Campus Campus WINTERHAWKS TICKETS

Signups are open for the Winterhawks vs. Thunderbirds hockey game Friday. The tickets are $5 with a current student ID. Only 50 tickets are available. To sign up, go to www.up.edu/ activities/registration, and drop your money off at the Office of Student Activities in St. Mary’s.

View on the news

Beacon reporter Philippe Boutros takes a look at the upheaval in the Middle East

‘TRON: LEGACY’ Friday and Saturday night, “Tron: Legacy” will play in the Buckley Center Auditorium at 10. TAMALE SALE Tomorrow and Tuesday, the Border Plunge is taking orders for tamales to fundraise for its trip. It is $2 per tamale. There are pork, chicken and veggie (olives, potato and tamale sauce) tamales. Orders made tomorrow will be ready Tues., March 8, and orders made Tues., March 8, will be ready Thurs., March 10. The tamales can be picked up from the Moreau Center from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. If interested in ordering tamales, e-mail borderplunge@up.edu. FORT STEVENS TRIP Saturday, there will be a mini immersion service trip to Fort Stevens in Astonia with Student Justice Coordinator Brittany Cannon. Students will experience Fort Stevens Park, nature conservation, service, environmental justice and marshmallow roasting. Students will depart Saturday morning and return Sunday afternoon. If interested, contact cannon12@up.edu. PILOT EXPRESS Through March 8, you can sign up for Pilot Express in the Office of Student Activities in St. Mary’s. The drop-off dates are Fri., March 11 and Sat., March 12. The pick-up date is Sun., March 20. The fee for one-way, either to the train station or airport, is $3, and the fee for round-trip is $5. The fees are non-refundable, and late sign-ups will be taken on a space-available basis until 11:59 p.m. on March 9. DRIVERS WANTED Drivers are needed for Pilot Express. Drivers must be 21 years or older. The signup is at https://appsone. up.edu/PerfectForms/player. htm?f=oYgAgAgE. Drivers are paid $10 per run. There is no limit on the number of runs made. After, the complete registration can be filled out at the Office of Student Activities. Accuracy in The Beacon

The Beacon strives to be fair and accurate. The newspaper corrects any significant errors of fact brought to the attention of the editors. If you think an error has been made, contact us at beacon@up.edu. Corrections will be printed above.

Philippe Boutros Staff Writer boutros14@up.edu If you’ve been on the Internet, turned on a TV, looked at a newspaper or crawled out from under the rock where you currently reside, chances are you’ve heard something about “unrest in the Middle East.” “What’s new about that?” you might ask yourself. The wave of revolutions seemingly started in Tunisia, where, over the course of days,

protesters overthrew the 23-year dictatorial “presidency” of Zine el Abidine Ben Ali and his corrupt regime. This rapid reversal took the world by surprise, only to stun it again with more dissent in Yemen, Bahrain, Algeria, Morocco, Oman, Jordan, Iran and Kuwait. However, no protests captivated the world’s eye as much as in Egypt. “I tell people it was the best revolution ever,” Professor John McDonald said. McDonald taught at the American University of Cairo for close to three years and was most recently a Fulbright fellow in Amman, Jordan. The revolution in Egypt was sparked by the Tunisian uprising and was fueled by rising food prices. It culminated in the overthrow of the 30-year rule of five-time president and vote-rigging aficionado Hosni Mubarak. With reporters already in the area, members of the media were easily able to focus on the often brutal treatment of protesters.

Despite shutting down the Internet, protesters kept the world informed with eyewitness reports, grim pictures and even more harrowing videos, such as the now infamous video of protesters getting mowed down by a pro-Mubarak van. “I liked how the Egyptian people had a lot of international support but managed to get what they wanted without the involvement of the international community,” Saudi Arabian and senior Muhammad Al-raddadi said. “I was very worried that international forces would be sent in and that this would cause chaos.” In part due to the UP’s growth in international students, many members of the UP community have been affected by what is going on. “I just wonder if my friends in Egypt and Bahrain are going to be OK,” Al-raddadi said. Middle Eastern students aren’t the only ones worrying about the well-being of their friends. The advent of social networking has

led to a smaller, better-connected world, even through unlikely channels – such as Farmville, the popular social farming game. “I met my friend Fatma through a Farmville chatroom,” freshman Logan Heyerly said. “She lives in Libya. I haven’t heard from her since Thursday; she was really scared because her brothers had been out protesting.” The current revolution capturing the world’s attention is in Libya. Moammar Gaddafi, 40-year dictator, maintains a firm hold on Tripoli, the nation’s capital. However, Gaddafi has lost control of most of the country. In a recent televised speech, Gaddafi blamed the protests on youths “drinking Nescafe spiked with hallucinogenic pills,” and has taken military action against the protesters, resulting in thousands of deaths. The world, however, has been asking him to wake up and smell the Nescafe. See Unrest page 5

DIVERSITY: Roloff an ‘eye-opener’ for students Continued from page 1 practice celebrating diversity,” Roloff said. “I would hope all of you at your age take the opportunity not to wait until later in life, but begin practicing now.” Though some students were initially drawn in by Roloff’s stardom, they found themselves learning more than what’s in store for “Little People, Big World.” “He’s so much more than a celebrity on TV,” sophomore Hillary Theriault said. “He’s a bigger person with a bigger goal.

Thanks to him, I learned how diversity is a bigger spectrum.” Other students were moved by Roloff’s life experiences. “It was super cool learning about the experiences he overcame,” sophomore Joel Barrett said. “It was a total eye opener. It was a humbling experience that broadened my view, hearing from someone so different from me and how their own differences came to make them understand diversity.” These days, Roloff focuses on his work as a motivational speaker, inspiring audiences with his personal story. However,

Roloff is best known for his family’s reality TV show “Little People, Big World,” which was created to help people understand and accept little people. “If you can wrap your head around a little person being equal to you, you can wrap your head around all kinds of diversity,” Roloff said. Though “Little People, Big World” has come to an end after being featured on TLC for six seasons, there is talk of the show’s return. “Right before this, we were on the phone with our lawyers,” Roloff said. “They were talking

about us having a Christmas special.” In 2009, UP was featured in one of the show’s fifth season episodes, “School of Hard Knocks,” in which Roloff’s twin sons, Jeremy and Zach, visit the campus with his wife, Amy. The twins ended up enrolling at Portland Community College, but UP may not be completely out of the picture. “I noticed you guys have a photography department,” Roloff said. “I’ll have to let my son Jeremy know to check it out.”


NEWS

The Beacon — www.upbeacon.net  3

Pence Amendment: UP responds

The University community debates federal funding for Planned Parenthood

Harold Burke-Sivers, Director of Public Safety

Erin Flotte, junior

Jeffrey Gauthier, philosophy professor

Lissy Richards, sophomore

Sasha Tenzin, senior

Elizabeth Vogel Staff Writer vogel11@up.edu

in federal funding. Because current law already prohibits federal funds from being used for abortion, the Pence Amendment would take away funds used for other services, including birth control, STD tests and other reproductive health services for low-income women provided under Title X. Students in the Feminist Discussion Group strongly oppose the amendment because they see it as an assault on women’s health care. “The amendment takes away from basic health care needs,” senior Sasha Tenzin, co-president of the Feminist Discussion Group, said. Members of Voice for Life support the amendment.

“The point of the amendment, and the reason we support it, is to keep those morally opposed to abortion from having to financially support them or the businesses that provide them through tax dollars,” junior Erin Flotte, vice president of Voice for Life, said. Supporters of Planned Parenthood argue cutting federal funds puts the health care of millions in jeopardy. “Just looking at the statistics: 3 million people in the U.S. alone need these services,” sophomore Feminist Discussion Group member Lissy Richards said. “That is a lot of people who may not have an agency to turn to if Planned Parenthood loses funding.”

Flotte says Voice for Life is not interested in shutting down Planned Parenthood. “We recognize that Planned Parenthood offers many positive medical services,” she said. “The point of this amendment is not to put Planned Parenthood out of business, nor will Planned Parenthood go out of business if the amendment is passed.” Richards attended a rally to support Planned Parenthood at its regional service center on Northeast Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Northeast Beech Street on Feb. 21. “There was a phenomenal atmosphere of support for Planned Parenthood, women’s health care and social justice. I am proud that I was a part of such

an amazing rally for change and social awareness,” she said. Harold Burke-Sivers, who is a Catholic deacon as well as UP’s director of Public-Safety, supports the Pence Amendment and frequently speaks out publicly against abortion. “I don’t think any government money should go to Planned Parenthood,” he said. On Jan. 11, Burke-Sivers was the featured speaker at a campus event sponsored by Voice for Life. The title of his talk was “The Legacy of Margaret Sanger (founder of Planned Parenthood): The Death of the Black Family One Child at a Time.” According to Associate

A congressional proposal to defund Planned Parenthood and any other organizations that perform abortions has evoked strong emotions within two UP student groups on opposite ends of the spectrum. Since Feb. 18, when the House of Representatives passed the Pence Amendment, it has been the subject of passionate discussion within Voice for Life and the Feminist Discussion Group. Under the Pence Amendment, sponsored by Rep. Mike Pence, R-Ind., Planned Parenthood would lose approximately $75 million

See Debates, page 5


4

NEWS

March 3, 2011

VP for Financial Affairs announces his retirement UP will begin the hiring process in this spring Jocelyne LaFortune Staff Writer lafortun12@up.edu Denis Ransmeier, vice president for Financial Affairs, has announced his plans to retire, effective July 1st. “Denis will certainly be missed,” University President Fr. William Beauchamp, C.S.C., said. “He brought a lot of expertise and served the University very well.” Ransmeier has worked as vice president for Financial Affairs since coming to the University in February of 2008. In addition to spending more time with his children and grandchildren, Ransmeier is looking forward to having a simpler schedule during his

retirement. “My wife still lives in Seattle,” Ransmeier said. “I’ve been commuting back and forth on the weekends, and this will make life much easier.” The University will begin looking for Ransmeier’s replacement this spring, according to Beauchamp. “There will be a nationwide search, but I wouldn’t preclude hiring someone from within the University,” Beauchamp said. “If the best person for the job is here, we’ll hire them.” The University will chiefly be looking for someone with a background in finance, according to Beauchamp. With the addition of Fr. Mark Poorman, C.S.C., to the executive

staff, the University will have the ability to reorganize the officer structure, according to Beauchamp. “Depending on who we hire, we could make some organizational changes,” Beauchamp said. “Though I can’t say for certain if that will happen.” Despite Ransmeier’s involvement in the development of the River Campus, his retirement will have little affect on the progress of the project. “My retirement really won’t make much difference.” Ransmeier said. “Jim Kuffner has been heavily involved with the River Campus. He currently reports back to me, and he will continue to report to my replacement.”

Bryan Brenize | THE BEACON

ROTC has a ball

Photos by Scott Chia | THE BEACON

Last Saturday night in The Bauccio Commons members of both the Army and Air Force ROTC danced the night away at their formal ball.

The UP Public Safety Report

5

1. Feb. 24, 12:18 p.m. - Public Safety officers made contact with three individuals outside of the library who were passing out books. They were advised they could not do this without proper permission and were asked to leave campus.

2

3

2. Feb. 25, 2:23 p.m. - A student reported a physical assault by another student that occurred off campus. Public Safety and Portland Police took reports and the investigation continues.

4 1

3. Feb. 25, 11:08 p.m. - Public Safety officers responded to a medical call at Fields Hall where a student was extremely intoxicated. AMR also responded and the student was transported to Emanuel Hospital by ambulance. 4. Feb. 26, 1:24 a.m. - Public Safety officers responded to a noise complaint at the intersection of N. Olin and N. Harvard. Officers made contact with the renters and asked them to have everyone come inside and quiet down. 5. Feb. 26, 11:24 p.m. - Public Safety officers responded to a party complaint at the 5400 block of N. Yale. The resident was contacted and the party shut down.


NEWS

The Beacon — www.upbeacon.net  5

No need for squatters to abandon ship Shipstad Hall squatting woes resolved despite wing switch

Luke Riela Staff Writer Riela14@up.edu Next school year, Shipstad Hall is switching from six female residence hall wings and two male wings to an even ratio, according to Shipstad Hall Director Tyler Ochsner. “The goal was to create a truly balanced coed community,” Ocshner said. The decision created some stress for female students in Shipstad Hall last Thursday who wanted to “squat,” or secure housing for the following year in the same residence hall, according to freshman Marissa Shumaker. Thursday, Feb. 24, was Shipstad Hall’s squatting night, when current residents lined Shipstad Hall lobby to hopefully be called to sign their housing contracts. “It’s really a mess right now,” Shumaker said of the squatting process. She was concerned some female students who showed up still wouldn’t be able to get a spot in Shipstad Hall. Ochsner was also worried about women showing up for squatting night and not getting approved for housing. “Realistically, I didn’t think we could get all the female squatters back into Shipstad,” Ochsner said. He pointed out there were more female squatting

applications submitted than there were spaces available. However, in the end all current female residents in Shipstad Hall who wanted to return secured a spot in the dorm. One reason for the limited space is that some of the rooms must be reserved for freshmen arriving next school year. “We want to have a good blend of freshmen and returners in the community,” Ochsner said. Some students were not only worried about space, but were also frustrated about having to sit around the lobby on a school night. “I wish it would have been handled differently or at least on a Friday,” freshman Erin Spies said. Freshman Katrina Palancia would have preferred to find out if she was accepted for squatting via e-mail, instead of in person. “Why do they have to waste our time when we could have done this electronically?” Palancia said. Both Spies and Palancia were in favor of the upcoming wing

Alissa White | THE BEACON

Shipstad Hall is switching from six residence hall wings of female students and two wings of male students back to four and four. The decision initially created stress for female students who wished to remain in Shipstad next year. However, every female student who wanted to stay in her rooms was able to secure a room for next year. switch, but wished the squatting process was a bit simpler. “This isn’t ‘American Idol,’” Spies said, referring to being called up one by one. Ochsner commented on the difficulties of setting up the squatting process, especially when faced with a lack of housing for female students. “It has been

Photo Illustration by Alexander Domingo | THE BEACON

DEBATES: The Pence Amendment

Continued from page 3

Professor of philosophy and adviser to the Feminist Discussion Group, Jeffrey Gauthier, taking away Planned Parenthood’s funding is not the way to stop abortion. “One of my main concerns is that to cut off Planned Parenthood is a short-sighted goal if your goal is to reduce the number of abortions,” Gauthier said. Burke-Sivers disagrees. “It makes no sense for us to give them government money,” BurkeSivers said. Burke-Sivers and other supporters of the Pence Amendment

in the Portland area have organized a prayer event this Saturday to kick-off a series of vigils called “40 Days for Life.” Participants will gather outside the Planned Parenthood facility on MLK Boulevard at noon, and BurkeSivers is one of the speakers. Planned Parenthood supporters are circulating an online “Open Letter to Congress” calling the Pence Amendment “the most dangerous legislative assault in our history.” While the Democraticallycontrolled Senate is not expected to support the defunding proposal, the passionate responses it has evoked on both sides are expected to continue to fuel political debate.

stressful and created some anxiety for female residents,” Ochsner said. “Housing can be a pretty complicated process.” Ochsner said he was still trying to improve the squatting process since it was initiated just last school year. “There were some misunderstandings that needed to be clarified,” Ochsner said. According to Ochsner, the initial e-mail about the squatting process wasn’t clear to some residents, so a couple more were sent out. Spies said she was definitely thrown off by all of the different e-mails she received about squatting and didn’t know ahead of time that the submission date of the squatting application determined priority among freshmen. “They kept changing their minds,” she said. “It wasn’t until (last Tuesday) we found out it was first come, first serve.” For some female residents, the squatting process wasn’t much of a hassle. Freshman Allie Teel said she was high on the list to be accepted for squatting and was easily able to get a third person into the room from

another residence hall. “There was a lot of tension, but I luckily filled out my application on time,” she said. According to Ochsner, everyone who showed up on squatting night was able to get a spot despite the puzzlement. “It was confusing, but it got worked out,” Ochsner said. “Nobody was turned away on that night.” All female squatters made the cut because some who filled out the squatting application decided against it. “About 12 people jumped off the list, so that worked out really well,” Shipstad Resident Assistant Hayley Brand said. Female residents were ecstatic to take the extra spots after much uncertainty. “Everyone at the end of the list was really happy to make it in,” Brand said, referring to residents jumping up and down after being called. Ochsner was also glad about the result. “I am relieved for all the Shipstad residents that were able to get back in,” he said.

UNREST: Unrest in the Middle East Continued from page 2 “I think they need to find a more humane way to control the situation than using their airforce on civilians,” sophomore Garrett Gustafson said. Gaddafi’s bloody retaliation against the protesters has sparked international condemnation, especially owing to the proliferation of on-the-ground YouTube videos uploaded by Libyan civilians. “They’ve been able to put a lot of videos on YouTube of protesters getting blown apart

by Gaddafi’s forces – I don’t advise anybody to look them up,” freshman Katie Husk said. “They’re less appealing than an M. Night Shyamalan movie.” All in all, the world is hopeful for the possibilities of a Middle East free of autocratic rule. “It’s spring in the Arab world, symbolic of a new beginning,” McDonald said. - Philippe Boutros lived in Beirut, Lebanon for the last 10 years.

Muhammad Al-raddadi Senior, Saudi Arabian


6  March 3, 2011

LIVING Dance Team steps it up

Rachel McIntosh Staff Writer mcintosh14@up.edu

Lights, camera, dance. The University of Portland student body will take center stage with its wide array of talent at the fourth annual Dance Showcase. On April 2 at 7 p.m., the Dance Team is hosting a program in Buckley Center Auditorium to showcase students who dance, sing or play musical instruments. Admission is free. “The Dance Showcase is open for any students to perform,” senior Dance Team co-captain Marianna Hunnicutt said. “They must provide information about themselves, their routine, song and group by signing a registration and contract form. The Dance Team leadership committee reviews/approves the routines during the dress rehearsal.” The Hawaii Club, an a capella boys group, tap-dancing students and brave students singing solos are lined up to entertain us. The Dance Team will also perform all of its dances from basketball games throughout the year. “We organize it because it’s a great way to get the student body involved with the Dance Team and on campus,” senior Caity Walsh, co-captain of the Dance Team, said. The Dance Team’s efforts to get the student body involved in activities on campus were creatively demonstrated in the flash mob (a group of people performing a spontaneous and unexpected dance) performed during the Pilots vs. Gonzaga men’s basketball game on Feb. 3. “We coordinated the flash mob as one of our biggest efforts in trying to get our name out and improve our image,” Hunnicutt said. “We wanted to

get UP more involved with Dance Team. About 90 students were involved in that performance, and we got a lot of good feedback from the school and community members. We got the idea from Bryan Brenize, who saw the flash mob on ‘Modern Family,’ and got really excited about performing one on campus.” The elimination of the cheer squad has left Dance Team members with their hands full. They took on the responsibilities of sideline cheering and incorporating pom-poms into their routines. Its status as a club instead of a sport means the Dance Team does not have a coach, so the captains are responsible for organizing practices with 15 girls and coordinating with the Athletic Department about performances. The Dance Team is working hard to raise money for its trip to Las Vegas in March to attend the WCC tournament with the men’s and women’s basketball teams. “We have been doing everything we can to raise the money for the team,” Hunnicutt said. “We ran two kids’ camps, helped out at a Blazer game and did three cleanup projects.” Through all their hard work, the team members have spent a good deal of time getting to know one another. “We do a lot of team bonding,” senior captain Amy Tolman said. “We try to have fun while getting work done.” After perfecting a routine for a game, the team celebrates together. “We love to have dessert nights, games, movie nights and sometimes we have cookie parties,” Walsh said. “Those are really fun.”

Follow the Dance Team on Facebook! www.facebook.com/PilotsDanceTeam Bryan Brenize | THE BEACON

From speaking Arabic to playing bass, McDonald does it all Philippe Boutros Staff Writer boutros14@up.edu Professor John McDonald’s list of accomplishments is unique: suspected by the Lebanese police to be a spy. Bass player for the Low Bones. Member of the editorial advisory board of The International Journal of ArabicEnglish Studies. “I don’t want it to sound like I have a huge teacher-crush on him, but I totally do,” Olivia Alsept-Ellis, a freshman, said. “I’ve decided to become an English major in large part because of my experience in his class.” McDonald’s office is adorned with mementos from his experiences around the world. He’s been to Italy, the Netherlands, Lebanon, Israel, Mexico, Canada and Romania. He’s been to some of the world’s major hotspots, such as the Golan Heights, which is a violently contested territory between Syria and Israel. Recently, his years spent in Egypt have pushed him more into the spotlight. “There was a message on my phone from a right-wing radio station affiliated with Glenn Beck asking me to come on air and

provide some commentary. I told them ‘no thanks,’” McDonald said.

“I’ve decided to become an English major in large part because of my experience in his class.”

Olivia Alsept-Ellis freshman

Having taught at the American University of Cairo, he is in touch with some of his former students who have been a part of the protests that overthrew the 30-year regime of Egypt’s erstwhile head of state, Hosni Mubarak. “I’m very proud of Egypt, they still have a long way to go to achieve what they want, but it’s a good start,” McDonald said. McDonald himself has come a long way from being a self-described nervous and over-friendly foreigner mistaken for a tourist. In 1997 he applied to 40 jobs and ended up being rejected by every single one – except for a position in the English department at the American University in Cairo. “My wife and I talked about it, sold a bunch of stuff and moved there,” McDonald said. “I was able to get into the rhythm of life,

because you have to get used to everything. After I improved my Arabic, everyone wanted to bring me home!” McDonald returned to the Middle East in 2008, when he was awarded a Fulbright Fellowship to teach in Amman, Jordan. He took advantage of that opportunity to delve deeper into the area’s literature and cultures. “The Egyptians harass you in a sweet way, the Jordanians are a lot more serious and the Lebanese drink beer while driving mopeds,” McDonald said. His appreciation for Arabic literature eventually led him to join the editorial board for The International Journal of Arabic-English Studies, a journal that promotes research into language and cross-cultural studies. First and foremost however, he remains an English professor, preferring Emily Dickinson, e.e. cummings and Joan Didion to more “mainstream” poets like Robert Frost and T.S. Eliot. “I wish I could find a word for what McDonald’s like – I can’t put it down. See, that’s going to make him sound like he’s a bad professor because I can’t think of a word, but it’s just that no word would really do him justice,” Alsept-Ellis said.

Alissa White | THE BEACON


The Beacon — www.upbeacon.net  7

UP presents a Shakespeare ‘bromance’

Will Lyons Staff Writer lyons14@up.edu

If William Shakespeare were alive today he might use the term “bromance,” to describe his first comedy “Two Gentlemen of Verona.” The Performing Arts Department will feature a modern version of the original bromance in Mago Hunt Theater. Performances of “Two Gentlemen of Verona” are tonight through Saturday and March 9 to 11 at 7:30 p.m. There will be also be a performance this Sunday at 2 p.m. The updated interpretation comes from the vision of Director Rico Nan, a graduate student

whose master’s thesis is the performance of this show. “I knew that I wanted to do a comedy for my thesis, and I thought of this one because it’s not done as much,” Nan said. “With ‘bromantic comedies,’ like ‘I Love You Man’ and ‘Superbad,’ becoming more and more popular, it seemed only natural.” The two gentlemen and best friends, Proteus and Valentine (seniors Alex Kirby and Connor Eifler), fall in love with the same woman, Silvia (sophomore Jessica Hillenbrand), upon entering college. Proteus conspires against Valentine and has him expelled from school in order to win over Silvia, much to the dismay of his betrothed Julia (sophomore Mad-

die Eberhard) who comes to the university to find Proteus. Once apart, a series of mishaps put the gentlemen in the position of choosing to rekindle their “bromance” or seek romance with Silvia. “The setting and approach we take makes (this show) accessible to everyone because it’s set on a college campus,” senior Hillary Burrelle, who plays both Pantina

“With ‘bromantic comedies,’ like ‘I Love You Man’ and ‘Superbad,’ becoming more and more popular, it seemed only natural.”

Rico Nan Director and Graduate Student

and the hostess, said. According to Nan, the Shakespearian script is roughly the same, but has been condensed in some areas and has various literal changes. For example “dorm room” is used throughout the show instead of “chamber.” “It’s its own entity using modern theater devices,” Kirby said. The most obvious reflection of the show’s modernization is the costume design done by junior Megan La Fleur. “I decided to go with warm colors and the hipster vibe, lots of flannel and layers,” La Fleur said. “I’m pretty stoked. I’m loving how cohesive it looks.” For Nan, this show is the payoff for a lot of hard work.

“It’s like birthing a child,” Nan said. “It’s awesome to see the show come into fruition.” Whether the setting is 16th century England or 21st century Portland, the real appeal of this show is the relationship between Proteus and Valentine. The onstage chemistry between Kirby and Eifler seems authentic because backstage a real life bromance is coming to a crescendo. “Connor and I have been friends the past four years, so it’s fitting that this show is the capstone of our time here,” Kirby said.

Photos by Scott Chia | THE BEACON

“Two Gentlemen of Verona” • March 3-5 at 7:30 p.m. • March 6 at 2 p.m. • March 9-11 at 7:30 p.m. • Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students or seniors. • The box office is open for reservations, or call 503-9437287 to get your tickets.


8  March 3, 2011

A Winter Wonderl Snowball fight

Building a snowman

Bryan Brenize | THE BEACON

Bryan Brenize | THE BEACON

“I think the snow made me most excited because it reminds me of home. Portland doesn’t get snow, just rain. Lots of rain. So when it does snow it is something special.”

Jenny Doyle Junior

“The campus is beautiful in any season. Snow highlights another perspective we don’t normally experience. And since we’re in Portland, it’s a fleeting experience, so there are not too many opportunities to capture images of the moment.”

Bob Kerns Freelance University Photographer

Snowball fight no. 2

Photo Credit Bryan Brenize


land at UP

e | THE BEACON

The Beacon — www.upbeacon.net  9 Design by Andrea Jackle | THE BEACON Photos Courtesy of Bob Kerns

“Everyone’s mood just brightened up as people ran around the campus with big coats and even bigger smiles.”

Emmanuel Aquino Sophomore

“We ended up building a snowman in the likeness of one of our professors. We also had a snowball fight with friends. It felt to me almost like a traditional snow day when we would go outside and sled, build snow forts and snowmen. “ Douglas Chun Junior

“I don’t have class until 11:20 a.m., so I walked around campus enjoying the snow! I made a snow angel and threw snowballs at my friend Will, just because I could. It put me in a good mood early and that stuck even after the snow melted. The fact that snow is rare is what makes it so exciting. I’m from California where it doesn’t snow, so it was amazing to wake up to a winter wonderland!”

Allie Rackerby Sophomore

Want to be in The Beacon? Send us a picture of where you and a copy of The Beacon have been for spring break! Your photo will be featured in The Beacon after spring break! Send your photos to beacon@up.edu.


FAITH & FELLOWSHIP

10  March 3, 2011

Students to receive Confirmation this Sunday Fr. Michael Belinsky C.S.C. Guest Commentary This Sunday, Archbishop John Vlazny is coming to The Bluff and will preside at the 10:30 a.m. Sunday Mass at the Buckley Center Auditorium. There, nine UP students will receive the Sacrament of Confirmation and so complete their sacramental initiation in the Roman Catholic Church. Each of them has their own story and their own particular reasons for being Catholic; each one chooses to receive this sacrament to continue to live out the fullest expression of their faith in Jesus Christ as revealed through Divine Word and Sacred Tradition. “I am getting confirmed because I feel comfortable with my knowledge of my faith to take the next step. It’s taken me a while to get here but I’m ready,” Kaity Stewart, a sophomore, said. In the choice of her Confirmation name, she “chose the patron saint of Margaret of Scotland (1045-1092) because she is the type of woman that I would like

to be like. This lady could do everything and anything she put her mind to.” As a princess born in Hungary but brought as a teenager to Scotland, St. Margaret married the king. They had six sons and two daughters and she shared her Christian faith with them; in fact, one of their sons, David, was also recognized as a saint. St. Margaret’s claims to fame were her extensive works of charity. Margaret frequently visited and cared for the sick, she founded hostels for the poor and fed them from her own table and she founded hospitals for the poor who were sick and provided for them from the royal treasury. As Kaity recommends, “If you don’t know her story, you have to read about her!” “Why am I being confirmed? The best way to answer is that it is what I feel I am meant to do. I have been a Catholic my whole life, but I want to become a fully recognized member of the Catholic Church and further my relationship with God,” Samantha Warren, a sophomore, said. She, too, discovered an amazing saint for her patron: St. Clare of the Cross (1268–1308) of Montefalco, also known as St. Clare of the Cross who lived in Umbria, Italy. “I looked for a saint that had

Samantha Heathcote | THE BEACON

an interesting story or seemed similar to a person I want to be or someone that stood out to me. St. Clare’s description stood out to me to be very devoted to Christ. She seemed to be someone that just wanted to serve God and did not care about other ambitious things. This is the way I want to live my life,” Samantha said.

“Her story only gets more interesting with her heart displaying visible symbols of Christ (after her death, medical doctors found a replica of a cross with a corpus in her heart composed of nerves and other human tissue). I found her completely fascinating. And it is a bonus that her name is my middle name!”

Let’s keep in thought and prayer those who will extend their Baptism this Sunday to include the Confirmation of their spirits as followers of Jesus Christ. Fr. Michael Belinsky is the Assistant Director to Campus Ministry. He can be contacted at belinsky@up.edu


OPINIONS

The Beacon — www.upbeacon.net  11

Dialogues on disabilities diversify discussion Kermit the Frog may have summed it up perfectly: “It’s not easy being green.” The discussion of diversity has largely been co-opted by issues surrounding color, race and ethnicity. But this year UP’s Diversity Dialogues is diversifying the dialogue by including the topic of disability. On Monday night reality TV star Matt Roloff of “Little People, Big World” spoke to students about his experiences with diversity due to diastrophic dysplasia, a form of dwarfism

affecting cartilage and bone development. Roloff inspired students who attended the event, speaking about his experiences overcoming adversity due to his condition. Diversity Dialogues is an important campus event that celebrates and discusses the important issue of diversity. Although diversity in terms of race is an important piece of this conversation, it is by no means the whole pie. In his presentation, Roloff himself brought up the fact that

there are many factors influencing diversity besides race. Differences in viewpoint, socio-economic status, religion, disability and sexual orientation – just to name a few. Disability is a form of diversity that is often overlooked. But looking closely, just the label of ‘disabled’ gives groups of people a negative stigma. Although people who have medical problems that make them unable to do certain things a non-medically compromised person would be able to do, it

doesn’t mean they are less able a person where it counts. In fact, it might be argued that they are more capable than many of us who take our health for granted. People with disabilities realize they are limited physically but often are motivated to go the extra mile to achieve their goals in spite of their limitations. They go above and beyond and often are an inspiration to many of us who have never faced serious physical obstacles. In his talk, Roloff spoke about his aversion to playing the

victim because of his disability. Some people may take pity on people who are disabled. But instead of pitying those who are disabled, it is important to consider the unique and exceptional abilities or perspectives that a disabled person offers. Understanding and learning to appreciate different points of view is definitely worth celebrating. Diversity Dialogues is made that much more rich with perspectives from those who are disabled.

EDITORIAL POLICY

The editorial reflects the majority view of The Beacon Editorial Board. The editorial does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the collective staff or the Administration of the University of Portland. Other submissions in this section are signed commentaries that reflect the opinion of the individual writer. The Student Media Committee, providing recommendation to the publisher, oversees the general operation of the newspaper. Policy set by the committee and publisher dictates that the responsibility for the newspaper’s editorial and advertising content lies solely in the hands of its student employees.

Scientific proof of the human soul? Danielle Larson Guest Commentary “I think therefore I am.” The immortal words of Descartes pondered by every UP student in PHL 101 are the philosopher’s best attempt at answering the many questions surrounding the nature of human consciousness. Sigmund Freud defined consciousness as everything inside our awareness, and tackled the issue of conscious and unconscious thought. No matter what your field of study – philosophy, or psychology, computer science, nursing, – you will inevitably ponder questions like: “What is it that makes me human? How do I know that your experience of the world is the same as mine? Do I have a soul?” Let’s just ask one question: What is it about humanity that gives rise to conscious subjective experience? As advances in neuroscience allow us to know more about the brain than ever before, scientists and psychologists basically agree subjective experience

(consciousness) both springs from and causes physiological responses. For example, alcohol changes the chemistry within your brain and consequently, your subjective experience. Advances in brain scans have also allowed us to observe thoughts – we can see which parts of the brain “light up” when you have certain thoughts. Consequently, the worlds of psychology, computer science, neuroscience and others have come to accept that the brain is basically just a complicated computer, and consciousness arises from complex computational processes in the brain. However, these advances have not brought us closer to understanding the tie between a series of biological processes and the phenomenon of consciousness. And as the Catholic Encyclopedia points out, the world of psychology has been too timid to use the word “soul” to bridge that gap, instead hiding behind the term “mind” to describe hu-

Submission Policy

Letters and commentaries from readers are encouraged. All contributions must include the writer’s address and phone number for verification purposes. The Beacon does not accept submissions written by a group, although pieces written by an individual on behalf of a group are acceptable. Letters to the editor must not exceed 250 words. Those with longer opinions are encouraged to submit guest columns. The Beacon reserves the right to edit any contributions for length and style, and/or reject them without notification. University students must include their major and year in school. Nonstudents must include their affiliation to the University, if any.

Advertising in The Beacon

For advertising information, contact Emily Lindgren, business and advertising manager, at beaconads@up.edu.

Subscriptions

Subscriptions are available at $26 for the year, covering 24 issues. Checks should be made payable to The University of Portland: The Beacon. For more information about subscriptions or billing questions, contact Business and Advertising Manager Emily Lindgren at beaconads@up.edu.

man consciousness. The Church calls the mind “the thinking principle – the highest and most spiritual energy of the soul, separable from the body, and immortal.” Are these beliefs reconcilable? Can there be a biological system inextricably intertwined with consciousness, and yet that is governed by a soul that is separable from the body?

http://www.fi.edu/learn/brain/index.html

Dr. Stuart Hameroff, Director of the Center for Consciousnesss Studies, has a theory that just might do it – quantum con-

sciousness. Let’s go 25 orders of magnitude smaller than an atom to really, really tiny land – it’s called Planck Scale Geometry, and it’s the smallest level of stuff we know about. We know that the itty bitty bits of information at this level “give rise to irreducible features in physics, like mass, spin and charge.” Bear with me, because things are about to get crazy. What if we didn’t just exist at the level of neurons and cells? What if we exist at the quantum level, in really, really tiny land? Hameroff’s theory is that things in our world contain information at the quantum level, and that we as conscious beings have not just biological, but quantum processes in our brains which allow us to process that information. So when I look at the rose, it’s not just photons entering my eye and causing a series of neurological signals, it is quantum information interacting with quantum biology. Hameroff calls this a “spacetime event in consciousness.” I’m not just seeing that rose, I’m

experiencing it at a quantum level of my consciousness. Here’s what totally blew my mind: This is a plausible scientific explanation for “interconnectedness among living beings via quantum entanglement” and “the possibility of afterlife or consciousness outside of the body.” Hameroff explains that, with quantum consciousness, even if the body dies the quantum information connecting it to spacetime wouldn’t be destroyed, so the information could remain entangled in space-time. The soul could survive after the body is destroyed. This is one of many scientific theories, and I mean to present it here as just that. But I also want to ask “What if?” What if we aren’t just biological processes in the brain? What if the Western addiction to scientific proof can finally reconcile itself with what religious sages have been saying for generation upon generation? What if we can someday scientifically proof the existence of the human soul? For citations and more information, contact Danielle Larson at larsond11@up.edu

THE BEACON Editorial Board Editor-in-Chief. . . . . . . ����� Rosemary Peters News Editor . . . . . . . . . . ��������� Hannah Gray Opinions Editor . . . . . . �������� Megan Osborn Living EditoR �������������� Roya Ghorbani-Elizeh Sports Editor . . . . . . . . �����Aaron O’Connell Copy Editor. . . . . . . . . . . �������� Lisa McMahan

Contacting The Beacon E-mail: beacon@up.edu Website: www.upbeacon.net Address: 5000 N. Willamette Blvd. ● Portland, OR 97203-5798

Staff Writers

PJ Marcello, John McCarty, Bruce Garlinghouse, Elizabeth Vogel, Jocelyne LaFortune, Caitlin Yilek, Sarah Hansell, Philippe Boutros, Amanda Blas, Will Lyons, Corey Fawcett, Rachel McIntosh, Joanna Goodwin and Luke Riela.

Photographers

Alissa White, Kevin Kadooka, Bryan Brenize and Scott Chia Designer. . . . . . . . . . Alexander Domingo and Andrea Jackle Business & Ad Manager . Emily Lindgren Artist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Samantha Heathcote Web Technician . . . . . . . . . . . . Bob Alger Circulation Manager. . . . . . . Sal Liotta Adviser. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nancy Copic Publisher . . Fr. E. William Beauchamp, C.S.C.


OPINIONS

12  March 3, 2011

In defense of the English major Corey Fawcett Staff Commentary I would be nonplussed to find an English major who hasn’t experienced some degree of apprehension when asked by a stranger what he or she is studying. Although there is a rare person who reacts to your answer with pleasant admiration, one of two responses can almost always be expected: “Oh, so you’re going to teach?” Or “Why the hell would you study that?” Sometimes people are a little nicer about it. Sometimes. I’m tired of feeling like I have

to explain why I’m studying English. Not only do people make it obvious they think I’ll never make a substantial living for myself with an English degree (unless I’m a teacher), but they also seem to have trouble fathoming I’ll be able to make a tangible contribution to society (unless I’m a teacher). Let’s get this straight: the English major fosters very useful, “real world” skills – critical thinking, the ability to develop a well-formed argument, research conduction, public speaking and of course, clear and effective writing. I’ve read time and time again the ability to write is currently the number one skill young American job applicants lack. This country needs English majors!

Because these skills are considered integral to a wide variety of professions, college graduates with English degrees have career options. Lots of career options. Aside from being famous novelists, we can work for nonprofit organizations and in many areas of business. We can be editors, publishers, journalists and lawyers. We are prime candidates for volunteer programs like the Peace Corps and the Jesuit Volunteer Corps. And yes, we can be teachers – an awesome career I’m considering, but one that can be pushed down our throats by people who don’t know of the multitude of other opportunities an English degree can offer. Not only does our major give us many places to go after graduation, but it also has the power to

change the way we relate to, and interact with, the world around us. The diversity of texts we read in and out of the classroom results in a rich knowledge of American and European history, and encourages deeper cultural awareness. In her novel “Reading Lolita in Tehran,” Azar Nafisi writes, “A great novel heightens your senses and sensitivity to the complexities of life and individuals, and prevents you from the selfrighteousness that sees morality in fixed formulas about good and evil.” As Nafisi suggests, the democratic nature of engaging in and

analyzing literature cultivates empathy, understanding and humility. Are these not useful, “real world” skills, too?

Famous English majors

Corey Fawcett is a sophomore English major. She can be contacted at fawcett13@up.edu.

• Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas • Head of the EPA Carol Browner • Barbara Walters • Steven Spielberg • Conan O’Brien • Stephen King

Samantha Heathcote | THE BEACON

Students fighting for healthcare Jenny Carson Guest Commentary The fact is that the state of the current health care system affects all of us. Yes, right now all students on this campus are insured because we are required to be as students, however what about when we graduate? Besides all the dry facts and figures I could give you about how much more America spends on health care over any other industrialized nation, how many personal bankruptcies are caused by medical bills and how many people choose to be uninsured due to rising costs. Let’s go with this idea: we are the future voice of political reform. I know that you have a biology exam to study for and that right now your parents cover you, or you are supported some other way as a student, but that may not always be the case. Every student at UP upon three years

after graduation will be required to purchase personal healthcare insurance, along with all the other stressors of finding a job and surviving in the American job market at a time of economic uncertainty. I am giving you an opportunity for your voice to be heard if any aspect of federal or state health care reform has upset you or intrigued you. This upcoming Friday March 11th there will be a legislative action day in Salem to support the Affordable Healthcare for All Oregon House Bill, introduced by North Portland Senator Chip Shields. There will also be future opportunities for open discussions and presentations on this topic appearing at UP. For more information please contact me at carson12@up.edu or visit www.singlepayeroregon. org to register for Legislative Action Day and to contact your legislators regarding this important issue. Jenny Carson is a junior nursing major and can be contacted at carson12@up.edu.


OPINIONS

A brother and a hero

The Beacon — www.upbeacon.net  13

Faces on The Bluff

Joanna Goodwin

By Bryan Brenize Photographer

Staff Commentary There are times in our lives when we are in serious need of a hero. There are also times when someone needs you to be his or her hero. Unfortunately, there are times when picking who that hero is doesn’t come until it is too late and you can look back and see how much that one person has affected your life. Bob Goodwin, my big brother, was a doctor, husband, father, soldier, son and my hero. On June 19, 2010, he and his family set out on a road trip from Bremerton, Wash. to Virginia. He died only four hours into the drive in an accident outside of Moses Lake, Wash. What did he have to do to be a hero? He never invented anything or brought peace to great lands (unless you include family feuds). But what he did do is love. He had big dreams, and he achieved them. And he was never consumed by what he did, but instead by whom he could help. Ever since he was a little boy, born in 1973, he had to be the best of the best. Like any good Catho-

What’s your favorite TV show?

Photo courtesy Joanna Goodwin | THE BEACON

Joanna Goodwin (left) and her brother Bob Goodwin (right) playing as children at the beach in 1991. lic boy, he wanted to devote his life to the Church. But we’re not talking some dinky priest. We’re talking head honcho – this man was going to be the Pope. He moved on from that idea and, as he grew, he proved himself an honorable citizen when he got his Eagle Scout and lettered in track, cross country and debate team. He was awarded the Congressional Award Bronze and Silver medals for service to the community and academic excellence. After high school he attended the Naval Academy, graduating in 1995 with a Bachelor of

Photo courtesy Joanna Goodwin | THE BEACON

Bob Goodwin with his wife and children he returned from his tour in Afghanistan.

Science in Chemistry and received his Doctor of Medicine at Georgetown University. He married Bridget Singletary in 2000, and they had two boys: Christopher, born in 2003, and Paul, born in 2008. They moved all over the world and he worked as an emergency room doctor for Naval assignments in San Diego, Japan and Bremerton. He served in Afghanistan for almost a year ,and his family was planning on moving back to Japan because it provided stability and less of a chance for reassignment in Afghanistan. Near the end of his life, he was presented the position of a U.S. Navy Commander, a status he had long been striving for. From that point on, thanks to him, I have become a new person. Every proud, scared or trying moment I have, I think of Bob and the lessons he has given me. I have realized the hero in my life is no longer with me, but I know I can always find him. I look into the eyes of his two sons and I see him smiling back with trust that we, as a family, will share his story. I want his boys to know their daddy as the superhero watching over them every day. My brother has taught me that the best lessons I have learned

aren’t from my statistics or Biblical Traditions class, but the lessons that never had to be spoken to understand. As collge students, we are in a time of our life right now where we have the freedom to act as crazy as we want without reaping the consequences. I can’t even imagine how many times I have wished I had taken out an evening of partying to just talk to my brother, my hero, and tell him thank you for the impact he made on my life. It is our own choice to decide on a carefree lifestyle, which I can easily admit to all too often. But don’t forget about those moments of reality that carry even more importance. When you live your life now and to the fullest, it does not always mean making every day a party. Could someone consider you his or her hero? What are you doing that makes your life an inspiration to others? When these four years are over, will we be able to claim ownership on the people we have become? Joanna Goodwin is a junior elementary education and Spanish Studies major. She can be contacted at goodwin12@up.edu.

“House…because I’ve always been into doctor shows.” Lacey Bailey, Freshman, Education

“I’m obsessed with Dexter and Entourage right now.” Adrienne Suner, Sophomore, Electrical Engineering

“Two and a Half Men…I love it even if they take it off the air.” Kaity Stewart, Sophomore, Civil Engineering

“Desperate Housewives… it’s my religion.” Erica Sampayo, Sophomore, Biology

Laugh with the BEACON

Q: Why is Mr. Kool-Aid so popular at parties? A: Because he is such a good mixer! Q: Where did the Legos go on New Year’s Eve? A: To the block party! -Elizabeth Vogel Got a joke? Send it to beacon@up.edu


SPORTS

14 ď ? March 3, 2011

Pilots struggle on Senior Night, look toward WCC

COLLEGE OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SCIENCES

Create your future with an exciting career in public health

Bryam Brenize | THE BEACON

Junior Natalie Day fights for a loose ball during the Pilots final home game against St. Mary’s on Saturday afternoon. The Pilots lost the game 62-52, but were able to clinch the No. 4 seed in the WCC. PJ Marcello Staff Writer marcello13@up.edu

Earn your Master of Public Health degree at Oregon State University q q q q q

Biostatistics Environment, Safety and Health Epidemiology Health Management and Policy Health Promotion and Health Behavior q International Health

Apply by May 1st for fall 2011

hhs.oregonstate.edu/ph/ master-of-public-health &JMFFO ,BTQBS q &JMFFO ,BTQBS!PSFHPOTUBUF FEV

Make a dierence. BEACON-OSU HHS PH Ad .indd 3

Change the future.

Apply today. 2/11/11 3:38:19 PM

It was the last game at the Chiles Center for four women’s basketball players, and while the night ended with a loss, it provided good memories and made the team ambitious to finish the season strong. The Pilots fell short in a close game against No. 2 in the WCC, St. Mary’s with a final score of 62-52. Free throws made the game appear more lopsided than it was as St. Mary’s hit 10 more free throws than the Pilots did, many of which came in the closing minutes of the game. The four graduating seniors are looking forward to the WCC tournament in Vegas but will miss playing for UP. “My time here was cool, it’s been the best time of my life,� senior forward Lauren Angel said. “I have improved both as a player and a person here.� Senior Jessica Clemens echoed her teammate’s love for Portland basketball. “I appreciated being able to be close with my teammates and close with a community,� Clemens said. “I’m going to miss them for sure.� Senior Tara Cronin made her

mark on her final game at home by leading the team in threes for the game with three and scoring 13 points. After the game, coach Jim Sollars sung her praises for her career as a Pilot. “I don’t think we could have a better student-athlete than Tara Cronin,� Sollars said. “She is excellent in the classroom as well as on the court and has been a great leader for this team.� The seniors and the team know that they still have work to do on this season and are fixed on making a run at the WCC title. With the fourth seed in the WCC clinched, the Pilots will face fifth seed Santa Clara in the tournament on Saturday. “It’s been a good long time here in Portland. Tonight was rough but we have to look ahead to the tournament now and hopefully get some revenge on Santa Clara,� Cronin said. The Pilots are excited for their opportunity to upset some teams in the tournament and are optimistic about their chances this year with a squad that is hungry for a win. “We’re going to do the best we can,� senior Egle Karolyte said. “We’ve struggled in the past in the tournament but I think we’ll do better this year.�


SPORTS

The Beacon — www.upbeacon.net  15

Lacrosse Club off to 3-1 start John McCarty Staff Writer mccarty12@up.edu Last fall, the men’s Club Lacrosse team played its first ever home game on Prusinski pitch. Now, spring season is in full swing and the Pilots are off to a 3-1 start with their sights set on making the playoffs. Last Saturday, the Club went downtown and faced off against Portland State University, losing 2-5. Because PSU is a member of Division 1 of the Pacific Northwest Collegiate Lacrosse League and UP is in Division 2, the Pilots’ divisional standings were unaffected by the loss. The Pilots began their season with three straight wins over Western Washington University, Central Washington University and Pa-

cific Lutheran University in nondivisional contests. “Against PSU, we were pretty much in it for the whole game,” sophomore defenseman and team captain Moussa Gloyd said. “Staying with a D1 team is a really good step forward.” According to Head Coach Mike Wilkerson, a strong defensive performance has allowed the Pilots to play with experienced opponents like PSU. Wilkerson says his coaching strategy emphasizes controlling the ball. “I try to get away from oneon-one lacrosse,” Wilkerson said. ”We set goals for every game and try to focus on things we can excel at from an effort standpoint, like riding and clearing.” Wilkerson, who began coaching the Club team last fall, has previous coaching experience at

Claremont University and UC Irvine. Senior, attackman and team captain Rob Church has been a member of the Club Lacrosse program since his freshman year. “Mike’s presence has helped exponentially. He’s totally transformed the team,” Church said. “We feel like we can win and we deserve to win. We’re not satisfied losing to a D1 team.” According Wilkerson, playing schools with established teams like PSU is beneficial for a team like UP with so many young players. With two seniors, eight sophomores and eight freshmen, Wilkerson says the team needs more experience playing together at the collegiate level. UP has been a member of Division 2 of the PNCLL for three years now. The past two seasons

combined, the team garnered a total of three wins within its division. Winning the first three games of the spring season is a new high for the Club team, although it’s the games at the end of the season that matter. “The first five or six games are really just stepping stones to the last five games,” Church said. “It’s (the loss) not a big deal for our conference records and we’re still undefeated in our division.” Church, Gloyd and sophomore midfielder Matt Timm are the team captains of the Club. The next game is at home March 14 against Colorado School of Mines. “Our team goal for the season is to make the playoffs,” Church said. “We have the talent and the power to make it.”

included two top-three finishes, the men’s golf team started the spring season with a sixth place finish last week at the Snowman Getaway at The Whirlwind Golf Club in Chandler, Ariz. Senior Justin Smithhisler and sophomore Nick Chianello both recorded top 10 finishes. Smithhisler placed fifth in the tournament, finishing minus-two overall after a final round 69 and Chianello placed eighth finishing minus-1 over all.

This is the program’s last season following the University’s decision last October to end the program and make room for a women’s varsity crew team in order to fulfill Title 9 requirements. Part of Title 9 requires universities to field varsity teams that accurately reflect student enrollment, leading UP to have establish a women’s sport to remain compliant. The decision came as a surprise for the team because of its

success during the fall season. Smithhisler said he looks to end the season on a high point. “It’s pretty special to be able to have a successful season because it is the last one. We’ve changed things over the last four to five years and we’re just looking to end it on a high point,” Smithhisler said. Although this would be Smithhisler’s last season regardless, he said the decision last fall still serves as motivation. “I feel bad for the other guys that would still have some seasons left,” Smithisler said. “It’s definitely been a motivation for the team to come together.” For guys like Sam Kloenne, their senior season has come early. “I’m looking at this as my senior season,” Kloenne said. “It would mean a lot to have a good season.” Kloenne said he tries to make his unfortunate situation a positive. “The decision bonded us together,” Kloenne said. “We’ve always had a lot of talent and after they decided to end the program, I think it’s helped us define more of a goal for the team.” Kloenne said there is some added pressure to prove something. “We’re not only playing for each other, we’re also playing to prove something to the University,” Kloenne said. The Pilots finished sixth in the WCC last season, but Smithhisler said he expects a better finish this season. “Our goal is to make regionals and to win the WCC,” Smithhisler said. “With the group of guys we have, I believe we can do it.” Kloenne said nothing could fully redeem his lost senior season, but a regional berth would be the closest thing to redemption. “I don’t think it will ever be OK,” Kloenne said. “The goal has always been regionals and now this year we want to get there and prove to the University we should have a program.” The Pilots have three more tournaments before the WCC Championships in April.

Men’s golf ending season at ‘High Point’

After learning this would be the program’s final season, the Pilots are more motivated than ever to succeed Bruce Garlinghouse Staff Writer garlingh13@up.edu After one of its most successful fall seasons in years, which

This week in sports Men’s Basketball (conference play) 1) St. Mary’s (11-3) 2) Gonzaga (11-3) 3) San Francisco (10-4) 4) Santa Clara (8-6) 5) Portland (7-7) 6) Pepperdine (5-9) 7) San Diego (2-12) 8) LMU (2-12) The Pilots claimed the No. 5 seed in the WCC Basketball Championships. The Pilots will kick off the tournament on Friday at 6 p.m. against the LMU Lions. The game will be available to watch on BYUtv and on ESPN Full Court and ESPN 3.

Women’s Basketball (conference play) 1) #23 Gonzaga (14-0) 2) Saint Mary’s (10-4) 3) Pepperdine (9-5) 4) Portland (6-8) 5) Santa Clara (6-8) 6) LMU (5-9) 7) San Diego (5-9) 8) San Francisco (1-13) The Pilots claimed a No. 4 seed for the WCC Basketball Championships, which secures a first round bye. The Pilots will play their first game at noon. on Saturday against the winner of Santa Clara and San Francisco. The game will be available to watch on BYUtv and on ESPN Full Court and ESPN 3.

Baseball 1) Portland (5-0) 2) LMU (7-2) 3) Santa Clara (4-4) 4) Pepperdine (4-4) 5) San Diego (3-4) 6) Saint Mary’s (2-4) 7) San Francisco (2-5) 8) Gonzaga (1-5) On Tuesday the Pilots went on the road to face the No.15 Oregon Ducks, winning the game 5-3. The win pushes the Pilots to an undefeated 5-0 on the year. Next, the Pilots travel to face Seattle University for a three-game series. The Pilots begin their first game at 4 p.m. on Friday.

(courtesy portlandpilots.com, WCCsports.com)


16  March 3, 2011

At least UP isn’t BYU. This is a statement that is probably not a revelation to most UP students, who chose a small, Catholic university on the outskirts of a progressive northwestern city, as opposed to a landlocked, principally Mormon university that houses a population the size of a small city.

Staff Commentary

Aaron O’Connell

ing “sexual relations” with his girlfriend. The honor code for BYU students (which they all have signed) consists of the following (among others): Honesty, abstinence from illicit substances (including drugs, alcohol, tobacco, coffee and tea), living a chaste and virtuous life (no sex outside marriage, no pornographic materials, no homosexual behavior), abiding by the law, regularly attending church services, clean language, respect for others, following the dress and grooming standards, and encouraging others to abide by these same standards. On one hand, one is almost compelled to admire the commitment the Cougars have to the honor code. Essentially, they are risking a potentially historic season in order to remain

consistent in their enforcement of policy, and that is laudable. It’s worth noting that they lost last night without Davies to an unranked team by 18 points. On the other hand, sitting comfortably at a wholly different university (and on a throne of ignorance) I can’t help but feeling vaguely amused. No, highly amused. And curious. There are all sorts of unanswered questions. Would the consequences have been the same if he admitted to having a Venti Java Chip from Starbucks? Would he still be off the team if they found a Playboy magazine under his pillow? Was he caught having sex, or was he simply compelled by guilt to tell someone? Was he having sex, or was he

www.upbeacon.net

merely soaking — seriously, look it up — and is there a difference? The consequences are unfortunate for Davies, who surely knew that signing his collegiate freedom away to the guidelines of an honor code could result in consequences. But suddenly, the University of Portland code of conduct looks to be positively exploding with opportunity. In fact, a hypothetical person at the University of Portland, if he or she was so inclined, could go to Starbucks right now and order coffee, or maybe tea, or maybe both mixed together (the possibilities are endless!), and then stub his or her toe on the way out and roar an obscenity (DAMNIT) at a passerby. This same person could then ditch the University’s church service because she

Aaron O’Connell is the woefully ignorant sports editor of The Beacon. He can be contacted at oconnell11@up.edu

or he wanted to go get drunk at a local brewery, could then accompany a stranger back to her or his abode and do something vaguely sexual (but not in violation of a certain arbitrary policy) and then wake up the next morning and wear a torn sweatsuit to class! Then, this same person could go to a UP basketball game in the 2011-12 school year and feel sorry for all those BYU players who wouldn’t be on the court if they had had such a free night as the one the UP offers. Go Pilots.

With your eyes on the rim, extend your shooting arm and release the ball. Be sure to follow through completely with your elbow toward the rim.

INSIDE:

Be sure to keep your elbow in line with the rim as you extend your arm to shoot. Grip the ball with your fingers to create backspin when you release the ball. Your off hand should support the ball.

Look to Brandon Davies

Keep your eyes focused on the rim and not the ball. Your dominant arm should form an “L” shape parallel to the ground.

with Jared Stohl

The Beacon

Sports

Shooting the rock

A strong base is crucial for a good shot. Your feet should be square with your shoulders and your legs bent to provide both power and balance.

UP students frequently complain about the idiocy of intervisitation rules, of stringent alcohol policies and of the paternalistic tendencies of an administration that would do well to leave the students to experience college however they please. But the next time you are written up for being in a friend’s room after hours, or given a Public Safety MIP and ready to curse the arbitrary policies of a foolish code of conduct, look to the newest member of the West Coast Conference. Look to Brandon Davies. Davies was recently dismissed from the No. 3 BYU Cougars basketball program for a violation of the school’s honor code. The Salt Lake Tribune reports that Davies was dismissed this week after admitting to hav-

Spread your fingers to grip the ball with your dominant hand and place your off hand on the side of the ball for support. Then put the ball in the shooting pocket so that you are in the triple threat position and can pass, dribble or shoot.

Catch...

P. 15: Lacrosse off and running P. 15: Golf swings for regionals P. 14: Seniors look to WCC

... & Release


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.