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PEPPERDINE GRAPHIC MEDIA
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Volume XLIII, Issue 18 | March 22, 2012 | pepperdine-graphic.com » A look at how the consumption of plastic can affect the human body.
Law school rank goes up & away
» L&A B1
Waves dominate Dirtbags
By WHITNEY IRICK NEWS ASSISTANT
The Pepperdine University School of Law was recently ranked No. 49 on U.S. News & World Report’s list of the nation’s “Top 100” law schools. The school has moved up five spaces from its No. 54 spot last year. It is also the third highest ranked law school in Southern California. In addition, the School of Law’s Straus Institute remains ranked No. 1 for its specialty in dispute resolution. “We are so gratified that the U.S. News and World Report rankings have recognized the outstanding work being done at the Pepperdine Law School,” Dean Reece Tacha said. “By every measure, this law school has achieved remarkable success in the past few years. 1. Yale We continue 2. Stanford our commit3. Harvard ment to student-centered 18. USC learning and 49. Pepperdine to educating 51. Loyola our students Marymount for successful careers in the —U.S. News “Top 100” Law Schools law and related endeavors.” Tacha emphasized the role of the faculty due to their dedication to teaching as well as the legacy of alumni. “Our faculty is nationally prominent in their scholarly work and in service to the profession. Our alumni honor us with their accomplishments and leadership in the legal profession. As we adapt to the challenges of a changing legal environment we are reaching very important milestones in our continuing quest for excellence in legal education,” Tacha said. According to U.S. News, two types of data are considered when calculating these rankings: expert opinions about program excellence and statistical indicators that measure the quality of a school’s faculty, research and students. The data comes from surveys conducted during fall 2011 and the beginning of 2012. Twelve measures of quality are considered including an assessment score by lawyers/judges, employment rates for graduates and the bar passage rates. A school is ranked by the number of schools that sit above it. U.S. News’ “Top 100” list is the most popular law school ranking list. These rankings assist prospect students by giving them information to choose the law school that suits them best. On the other hand, specialty rankings (such as Pepperdine’s specialty in dispute resolution) are based solely on votes by legal educators. These legal educators were chosen from a list in the Association of American Law Schools Directory of Law Teachers 2009-2010. The recession had initially spurred interest in graduate school programs, such as law school, however, as of January, a Legal Skills Prof report indicates that American Bar Association applicants are down 16.7 percent.
INDEX DPS Reports..A2 Calendar........A2 Editorial..........A8 Horoscopes....B7 Sports............B10
whitney.irick@pepperdine.edu
RACHEL MILLER/ PHOTO ASSISTANT
Roll Waves: Freshman Steve Casey helps lead the Waves to victory during their game against the Long Beach State Dirtbags on Monday.
»See SPORTS, B9
Urgency ordinance threatens chain stores By HANNA HOUGLUM CURRENTS EDITOR
At the request of Councilmember Pamela Conley Ulich, the City of Malibu is reconsidering an urgency ordinance, originally requested in 2006, to ban chain stores in Malibu. This item on the agenda is not for immediate action. However, if Conley Ulich is able to persuade at least two of her partners on the platform that this is an issue worth going forward, the city staff will put together a decree to be presented at a later meeting. “I began to look at this issue after Malibu got its fourth Starbucks many years ago,” Conley Ulich said. The security of local business in Malibu has been the talk of the town for quite some time and was especially ignited last spring after
the Trancas Canyon Nursery was to Oxnard/Ventura, or over the hill to the San Fernando Valley or down susceptible to being dislodged. Some feel Malibu, once a tourist the coast to Santa Monica/Venice/ attraction for its beaches and unique Culver City, and everything you want in the shops and restaurants, is now history of the becoming just world is easily “I think that Malibu is another outdoor available.” still charming today, mall with the reMarcus said although I think the cent addition of he was in supLevis, Sephora, high-end stores are kind port of Malibu banning chain Kitson, and other of pretentious.” stores. “I have name brand shops —Ben Marcus driven a lot in the local CounWriter and Malibu local for eight years around the try Mart and United States Lumberyard. and all AmeriWriter and local for the past eight years Ben can cities look the same: strip malls, Marcus said, “One of the problems Costco, billboards, yuck. I think with small stores in Malibu is they that Malibu is still charming today, cannot possibly compete with what although I think the high-end stores is so easily available only 30 minutes are kind of pretentious.” away in three directions. Drive West Before the Lumberyard and
name-brand shops, Malibu had the appeal of giving both locals and tourists the opportunity to buy or eat things not available anywhere else within driving distance. Before Sephora and Salvation, there was a small bookstore and a unique clothing shop. Over the past decade many “mom and pop” stores have had to close after being overshadowed by more popular chain shops. The Malibu Country Mart was purchased in 1986, by Koss Real Estate Investments and has gone through multiple transitions of tenants over those years. In an interview with the Malibu Surfside News, Michael Koss, the general partner in the Country Mart, stated his opposition to the ban. Koss reminded the council of the city’s study of retail outlets that there only 16 out of the
»See LEGISLATION, A5
Autopsy dispels murder suspicions By IAN MCDONALD ASSOCIATE NEWS EDITOR
The Guido’s kitchen worker who was found dead Sunday night has been determined to have died from natural causes, despite earlier reports of a shooting or a beating, according to the Los Angeles County Coroner and Sheriff’s Department. The man, 32-year-old Carlos Ivan Rodas, who worked washing dishes at the popular Italian restaurant in the Malibu Country Mart, was last seen taking out the trash before being discovered dying in a pool of blood outside the restaurant at around 8:30 p.m. Employees called 911 and paramedics along with
Church bell panic sets in Student offers last-minute advice as the “ring by spring” deadline quickly approaches.
»PERSPECTIVES, A8
the LA County Sheriff were dispatched. Paramedics pronounced Rodas dead at the scene. Initial reports from the Sheriff’s Department indicated that Rodas had been shot to death, and Homicide detectives were sent to investigate. Monday morning, investigators said they believed the cause of death was actually a brutal beating, and a search for suspects began. After conducting an autopsy, the official cause of death was revised on Wednesday to complications from an upper respiratory infection, according to the LA County Coroner. Ruling out a homicide, the search for the killer was suspended.
ian.mcdonald@pepperdine.edu
IAN MCDONALD / ASSOCIATE NEWS EDITOR
Securing the scene: LA County Sheriff’s deputies investigate the mysterious death of Carlos Ivan Rodas, a Guido’s kitchen worker.
Help the SAC A look at the life of no one’s favorite building, the SAC
The Waves of Malibu Fri. 2 ft @12s
Sat. 1.5 ft @12s
Sun. 2.5 ft @17s
Mon. 2.5 ft @15s
» L&A, B1 magicseaweed.com
NEWS
A2 Graphic
March 22, 2012
Maurice’s dream fulfilled SIENNA JACKSON
S
COPY EDITOR
Cultural ignorance imperils mission
IAN MCDONALD/ASSOCIATE NEWS EDITOR
Pray the night Away: Students, faculty and community members participated in a 24-hour prayer marathon, in which they systematically went through lists of the entire student body, ensuring that every student on campus was prayed for — an idea Athletic Chaplain Maurice Hilliard had before he died last week.
DPS REPORTS Weekly update from the Department of Public Safety 3/12/12 11:17 a.m. Incidents – Suspicious Circumstances Location: Tyler Campus Center Summary: Public Safety observed two students tampering with multiple mailboxes in the Sandbar area. No contents from the mailboxes were removed. 3/13/12 6:45 p.m. Traffic Related – Traffic Accident, Non-injury Location: Seaver Drive and President’s Drive Summary: Vehicle vs. vehicle traffic collision. A vehicle struck another vehicle while making a U-turn at the intersection. Public Safety officers and Los Angeles County paramedics responded. No injuries were reported. Major damage was reported and one vehicle was towed from the scene. 3/13/12 9:55 p.m. Crimes – Larceny/Theft Grand Theft of Property Location: Banowsky Boulevard Summary: A visitor reported that money and a laptop computer were stolen from a vehicle’s trunk. 3/14/12 9:26 a.m. Incidents – Suspicious Circumstances Location: Center for Communication & Business Summary: A professor registered with both Cal State Dominguez Hills and Pepperdine University’s mass notification systems reported receiving a text message of an unconfirmed person with a gun on campus. A Public Safety officer confirmed with the Cal State Dominguez Hills Police Department that the text message was sent from their campus. 3/16/12 1:36 p.m. Crimes – Trespassing Location: Baxter Drive Summary: A Public Safety officer responded to a trespassing complaint. Three visitors were warned of trespassing on private property and escorted off campus. 3/16/12 4:03 p.m. Incidents – Unauthorized Solicitor Location: Hall 10 - Roy P. Crocker Summary: A student reported encountering six solicitors selling extreme sport packages that might be fraudulent. 3/18/12 4:24 p.m. Incidents Disturbance – Loud Noise Location: John Tyler Drive Summary: A Malibu Country Estates resident filed a noise complaint about a bus idling near their house.
News of the WORLD Earthquake rocks Mexico
A 7.4-magnitude earthquake with the epicenter in Guerrero state shook Mexico on Tuesday. A pedestrian bridge collapsed and crushed a microbus in Mexico City due to the force of the quake. No deaths have been reported. However, around 500 houses were damaged in Guerrero state, according to the state’s governor.
Canadians riot on St. Paddy’s
Dozens of police and firefighters were called late Saturday night to deal with several out of control parties in the Canadian city of London, Ontario. Rioters threw bottles at police and set a TV truck on fire. Authorities arrested 11 people and estimated that $100,000 worth of damage was done.
Moroccans protest rape law
Women’s rights activists protested outside Morocco’s parliament to protest against “article 475.” This penal code enables a rapist to avoid prosecution if he marries his underage victim. These protests come a week after a 16-year-old, Amina Filali, killed herself after being severely beaten during a forced marriage to her rapist.
French manhunt begins
After four people were shot dead at a Jewish school in Toulouse, “scarlet alert” has been declared for the first time in France’s history. Authorities do not know who the killer is, however about 200 investigators from Paris are pursuing two main lines of inquiry — an Islamist motive or the far right. As the investigation continues, guards are posted at high-alert areas. Reports compiled from BBC
Around the ’BU Candidates oppose condos
City Council candidates continued their campaigning as all seven candidates attended a forum hosted by Malibu West Beach Club. The candidates answered questions about possible developments of condominiums in Trancas Canyon. All of the candidates expressed that, if elected, they would be against the idea of condos being developed on the property.
Hate-behavior policy reviewed
The Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District’s Board of Education reviewed the district’s policy in regards to hate-behavior Thursday evening. Hate-motivated behavior is described as actions or attempted actions that target a student’s race, ethnicity, gender, etc. The previous policy was roughly one page long. The new policy addresses how to investigate the incident, who to notify and how to punish the perpetrator.
Plans on satellite campus effort
Malibu recently announced plans are progressing to collaborate with Santa Monica City College’s efforts to build a satellite campus on Los Angeles County property in the Malibu Civic Center area. The campus is expected to offer more educational opportunities to the Malibu community and add to law enforcement’s ability to serve the city.
Soccer at state championship
The girls AYSO Extra G14 team of Malibu went to the State Championships for only the fifth time in the city’s history. The girls’ team recently finished third after playing through rain and injuries — with only 11 players. Reports compiled from Malibu Patch
This afternoon, Payson Library will play host to the closing comments of the Borders of Faith Panel. The panel, moderated by the School of Law Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution, is focused on improving interfaith relations. Thursday’s closing comments will address “informal efforts at joining religion with the political process in the Middle East and elsewhere.” Would that such dialogue had occurred sooner, on a national level. The war in Afghanistan is drawing to a bloody, uncertain close, marked by scandals and slip-ups as the United States begins the tedious process of withdrawing Americans troops by 2014. From the leaked video of Marines urinating on the corpses of Taliban soldiers in January, to the Korans burned at a U.S. base in February, to the horrific massacre of 16 Afghan villagers (nine of them children) by a rogue Army Sergeant just this month — this trifecta of unfortunate events is grounded in the disconnect between military leadership, forces on the ground and the Afghan people. Our problems in Afghanistan (and the region in general) can never be solved by holding hands in a circle and singing “Kumbaya.” But a little cultural introspection, now, that’s a different story. That opportunity to build — be it roads, schoolhouses or relationships with the people of Afghanistan — is long gone. Now the only choice that remains for the United States is to withdraw and hope that nothing else goes wrong. The key to slackening al-Qaeda’s hold over Afghanistan lay in the hearts and minds of the people, who are predominantly tribal, Sunni Muslims, who have adhered to the same traditions for centuries. Supplanting an American ideal of democracy in that country failed decisively under the previous administration, and the Obama Administration has turned its focus to encouraging dialogues with tribal leaders to quiet unrest. The events of the past three months have crippled that effort severely; the shootings in Kandahar have permanently alienated tribal leaders, who had previously allied themselves against the Taliban and had been sympathetic to the Americans. The Taliban have suspended peace talks with the Americans, which complicates the timetable for a peaceful withdrawal. The killings of March, and the Koran burning on February 20, sparked riots throughout Afghanistan and drove a wedge between America and president Hamid Karzai. In his own words (made during his comments to grieving families in the aftermath of the shooting): The Americans “are demons.” And the Koran burnings in February were “satanic acts that will never be forgiven by apologies.” This rhetoric has toned down but the sentiment remains. The American occupation has lost all legitimacy with the Afghan people, and we can’t be out fast enough. We came to route out al-Qaeda and its defenders (the Taliban), but that simple mission devolved into democracy building and slipshod attempts at humanitarian outreach, pockmarked with the suffering of Afghan civilians, to say nothing of the costs in blood and treasure to our nation. Afghanistan has been the “graveyard of empires” for a very long time—turning away everyone from Alexander the Great to the British Empire, the Soviet Union and now the United States. With that in mind, Obama has played a shrewd game of juggling peaceful (and speedy) withdrawal from Afghanistan while refocusing and redirecting American resources to dismantling al-Qaeda. The events of the last three months jeopardize any hope of peaceful withdrawal, and the very real possibility of Afghanistan’s descent into chaos after American withdrawal looms large. The plain reality of our situation in Afghanistan is this: If we had truly understood the costs and cultural/political/social landscape that the United States would have to navigate to achieve “victory” in Afghanistan, we wouldn’t have invaded in the first place.
sienna.jackson@pepperdine.edu
CALENDAR A conversation with filmmaker Dano LeBlanc 4 p.m. CCB 140
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Liz Callaway and Ann Hampton Callaway in BOOM! 8 p.m. Smothers Theatre
The Wish Upon a Star Fashion Show 7 p.m. Waves Cafe
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The Cinematic Gaze: Distinguished Panel on Women and Film 4 p.m. Elkins
Nonprofit Leadership Speaker Series 6 p.m. Fireside Room
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NEWS
March 22, 2012
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SGA boosts Towers living experience By ASHLEY THURMOND NEWS ASSISTANT
As the semester winds down, SGA officers focus on bringing up possible legislation aimed at advancing the student experience. In this week’s SGA meeting, a total of seven resolutions were brought forth offering solutions to issues the constituents have expressed to the SGA representatives. Sophomore Senator and Towers resident Keb Doak authored a policy resolution prompting the creation and use of Rockwell Towers parking passes. The passes would restrict only Towers residents with passes to be able to park in the Towers lot. Sophomore class representatives explained the concerns they have received from constituents regarding parking and believe the passes will help alleviate some of the issues. “There are still not enough spaces for all residents, but this will make the pool smaller,” Doak said. The resolution was passed to continue and further communication efforts between SGA, HRL and DPS to implement the plans for this project. Passes such as these are already used by George Page residents, and the resolution poses no costs to SGA.
More Towers parking issues were discussed as sophomore Senator Melissa Carr presented her resolution. The resolution addressed the concern of FM&P maintenance vehicles parking in Towers, an already small space, in spaces designated for students. Maintenance and staff have reserved parking spots that account for approximately one-sixth of the Towers parking lot and SGA passed the resolution on the basis of mutual parking respect. “It becomes a battle between FM&P vehicle and student vehicles,” Carr said. The resolution was passed after the SGA voted to amended the resolution to describe how the resolution will build mutual respect for parking seeing that students also take slots designated for maintenance vehicles. Resolutions focusing on Towers residents continued to appear as sophomore Jonathan King authored a printer funding request resolution. The SGA passed the resolution and gave $800 to help support the installation of an official payper-use Pepperdine print in the Towers residence. King drafted the resolution after many students had been advocating for the need of a printer in a more convenient location other than
Payson Library. “This is a legacy, a lasting project,” King said. “It’s a good $800 spent.” King also authored another Towers-related resolution passed in this week’s meeting. The funding request resolution granted $750 from the SGA General Fund for an event being planned for Towers residents referred to as “SGA Dinner at the Rock.” The monthly dinners have been a tradition this year at Towers and King wanted it to continue despite HRL’s budget. Partnering with HRL, the SGA Sophomore Class will be hosting the Final Towers Dinner At The Rock on April 4 at 6 p.m. “This event definitely fosters community,” Jessica Thompson, vice president of finance. “We also plan to use this event to publicize our other events,” King said. SGA also passed a resolution regarding the surveys that each class designs, hands out, collects and analyzes. Senior Jordan Womack authored the resolution calling for online town hall surveys to be the default way that SGA conducts these surveys in the future. This requires that the SGA budget $200 annually for the cost of the online survey
service provider. Online surveys were tested during the final senior town hall and according to senior class representatives, it was a huge success. Womack suggested that online surveys are not only more environmentally friendly, but also yield much more thoughtful responses from students in comparison to paper surveys handed out at town halls. At first the resolution received some hesitation because some people may not complete it before the town hall and lose their chance at receiving a class giveaway. Senior class representatives addressed this by explaining how they offered students the option of completing the survey in the Sandbar at the town hall. “It’s the best thing because people take their time,” Womack said. The senior class received more than 300 responses to the online survey. SGA tabled two resolutions, one regarding potential extension of mail room hours, and the other giving SGA representatives access to the main parking lot when representatives are setting up for or attending an SGA event.
ashley.thurmond@pepperdine.edu
Graziadio lowers future target enrollment By ANDREW KASSELMANN NEWS ASSISTANT
As a result of changes in graduate school markets and university philosophy toward graduate programs, Pepperdine has recently cut back on the target enrollment for the Graziadio School of Business and Management. “These changes are the result of multiple factors including the fact that the markets for graduate students in education and business are changing, even volatile,” Provost Darryl Tippens wrote in an email. “These changes are taking place also because our philosophy about graduate and professional education is also changing. We are seeking to be less market-driven by becoming somewhat smaller and, in time, more selective.” Cuts to enrollment targets have been
implemented successfully before. Over a year ago, the Graduate School of Education and Psychology (GSEP) lowered its enrollment targets. GSEP is currently meeting its targets and doing well, according to Tippens. The School of Law is also currently thriving, according to a memo sent out to faculty earlier by President Andrew K. Benton. “We think that is a prudent path. We are achieving these new models through very careful planning, both at the school and University levels,” Tippens wrote. “We are finding efficiencies at the schools, lowering the cost of operation, in other words.” Although cuts are being made to the enrollment targets, eliminating programs is not the only focus. An effort is being made to use existing money in the most efficient way possible. Some new
programs are going to be implemented by the graduate schools, as well, according to Tippens. Funds that will help in the implementation of new programs as well as simply help with the functioning of the University are supported by a special fund set up by the University in anticipation of the 2008 financial crisis. This foresight is now becoming very useful. “The University, after the 2008 financial crisis, went through a University-wide reallocation which allowed us to set resources aside, to develop a kind of ‘rainy day’ fund to help us through market changes, much like what we are experiencing today,” Tippens wrote. “That fund is now helping us with the transitions currently going on.” How Seaver fits into the equation is a different topic, and not something to
necessarily be used to offset the lower growing consensus to review what the enrollment in the graduate schools, ac- future for Seaver will look like, accordcording to Tippens. Decisions about ing to Tippens. “If we can grow the what will happen with school slowly, intenthe undergraduate tionally, without harmschool are less defined. “We are seeking selectivity and qual“We carefully limit ing to be less ity, then it’s something the size of Seaver in market-driven by we think should be an effort to ensure becoming somethe very best possible considered,” Tippens what smaller experience for our wrote. “It might even students. Will Seaver be possible to grow a and, in time, grow in the years to bit and increase the more selective.” come? All I can say is quality of the student —Darryl Tippens perhaps.” experience. It’s someProvost Seaver, according thing we fully intend to Benton’s memo, is to study over a period currently thriving and of months, perhaps not suffering from the years.” market-induced enrollment difficulties that Graziadio has. However, there is a andrew.kasselmann@pepperdine.edu
Campus remembers Hilliard with prayer, Chapel By AUBREY HOEPPNER NEWS EDITOR
Former Athletics Chaplain Maurice Hilliard was scheduled to speak in Chapel yesterday, but the time was instead filled with tributes to his life. Members of the Pepperdine community shared stories of the way Hilliard had loved and ministered to them. Hilliard was found dead on the beach on the morning of Monday, March 12. He had worked in Athletics since 2001 and was the program director of the Boone Center for the Family. Students, faculty and staff responded with prayer memorials honoring Hilliard last week and speeches in Chapel highlighting his impact on the campus. Hilliard had instructed Convocation Director Sarah Jaggard that he wanted a 24-hour period of prayer to take place in Heritage Hall following his Chapel. True to his request, volunteers assigned to pray from 11 a.m. yesterday to 11 a.m. today prayed through a list covering every Seaver student. Religion professor Raymond Carr began Chapel, noting Hilliard’s gift of encouragement, felt in Hilliard’s insistence on calling him “Dr. Carr” while Carr finished his doctorate, despite Carr’s refusal to accept the title. He closed with an adapted quote from “The Shawshank Redemption”: “Sometimes it makes me sad, though, Maurice being gone. I have to remind myself that some birds aren’t meant to be caged. Their feathers are just too bright. And when they fly away, the part of you that knows it was a sin to lock them up does rejoice. But still, the place you live in is just that much more drab and empty that they’re gone. I guess I just miss my friend.” Sports medicine professor Cooker Perkins said she and Hilliard had had several disagreements, as good friends do, one “over the divinity of chocolate.” Clasping her own pearl necklace, she said they did agree on the value of a pearl as a metaphor for the human heart and an image of the incalculable worth of human life, referencing Hilliard’s book, “The Price of a Pearl.” “Maurice fought for this. … He was a warrior, but not the typical warrior,” Perkins said. “He was the gentlest of the fierce warriors and the fiercest of the gentle warriors.” Alumnus Greg Lee spoke of the value of
Hilliard’s mentorship during Lee’s time as student body president, and alumna Christine Yi Suh sang “His Eye Is on the Sparrow,” as Hilliard had asked her to do at his Chapel. Assistant Director of the Pepperdine Volunteer Center Meredith Miller shared her experience of God’s faithfulness in comforting those in mourning, using her story of giving birth prematurely to twins at five months, too early for the babies to survive. She called those mourning Hilliard’s death to refuse to be overwhelmed by grief but to lean on God’s protective power. Between speakers, a slideshow played, showing the depth of Hilliard’s involvement in the Pepperdine community. He was pictured with students
at events from dinner at Roscoe’s Chicken and Waffles to graduation to a wedding. Perkins emphasized the spiritual impact he had on the campus, saying it was difficult to pick one scripture to describe him beHilliard Former Athletic cause “it’s the whole Bible.” Chaplain “Most of us don’t wake up feeling a Christ-like patience and selflessness,” she said. “Because of Christ we have freedom. Freedom to speak and behave how we choose. Maurice didn’t wake up
feeling Christ-like. Maurice made a choice every morning. Probably every hour. And every moment as needed.” Perkins then read Galatians 5:13-14. “For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” “This is the word of God,” Perkins said, “and this is the heart of Maurice.” A memorial service to be officiated by Francis Chan will be held Sunday at 11 a.m. in Firestone Fieldhouse.
aubrey.hoeppner@pepperdine.edu
NEWS
A4 Graphic
March 22, 2012
Earn your degree in education in 12–18 months at APU. Darin Curtis, M.A. ’95 Tierra del Sol Middle School 2011 California Teacher of the Year
With more than 36 credential and master’s degree opportunities, we’re confident we have a program for you. MEAGAN MCCARTY / PHOTO EDITOR
Hall pass: Pepperdine Dean of Libraries Mark Roosa, left, stands with former Congressman and Ambassador Tony Hall before his keynote at the “Borders of Faith” Symposium on Tuesday.
Q&A
Tony Hall Interview conducted by IAN MCDONALD ASSOCIATE NEWS EDITOR
Graphic: For those who won’t get the opportunity to attend your speech, what is the essence of what you hope to communicate? Tony Hall: I think the essence of it is really “Do the thing that’s in front of you. Mother Theresa told it to me once. I got to spend a lot of time with her. One time I visited her in Calcutta and in the afternoon she took me down to an area of Calcutta that was extremely busy, with people living on the street. I thought I knew something about hunger and taking care of people. There were just masses of people living on top of one another. And I said to her “I’m supposed to know something about this, but I’m not even sure where to start to take care of this problem.” She didn’t say anything to me. She got some men to pick up a man who was lying in the street — he was just in terrible shape — she took him home and began to wash him off and take care of him like she always did. She came back to me later in the afternoon and said, “not everybody can come to Calcutta like you. I want you to always remember to do the thing that’s in front of you. “ She always did the thing in front of her and always one at a time — pretty much right out of Matthew 25. I thought that was a pretty good message. You don’t have to go to Los Angeles to look for poverty, hunger or people that are in trouble. Look around: it’s right here; on your campus; in Malibu; people hurting. Do the thing that’s in front of you. G: How would you explain the deeper significance of the symposium title “Borders of Faith”? TH: I think in the Middle East the answer is not just politicians trying to work together to solve these problems. I think you’ve got to bring all the religions together — especially the principle three: Christians, Jews and Muslims. And I think you have to build relationships with one another where, over time, those people begin to trust one another, and when you do that, you can begin to make something happen. Religious leaders can’t solve the problems for you — they can’t create peace — but you can’t have peace without them. For 2,000 years we’ve been trying to solve a peace problem in Israel and the Middle East with politicians, and you’ve got to have more than that. You need to bring the whole faith community into it, and from what I understand, that’s what Pepperdine is trying to do with this. G: In your time as a Congressman and Am-
bassador, what did you learn that you are now applying in your initiatives? TH: I think collaboration is very important — you have to work together, you have to bring everyone into the same room, and you can’t go it alone. So many times, people try to go it alone or as one organization, they try to handle the problem and they can’t handle it because it’s too big. When you try to solve a problem like hunger or homelessness, you have to bring in all aspects: non-profits, government, corporations, individuals, universities and work it out together. That’s how you solve problems. G: What do you think is the most important current issue in the fight against world hunger? TH: Lack of political will. We don’t have the will to end it. We have the ability, we have the knowhow — we know what to do, we just don’t have the political will to do it. We need elected officials that really want to take it on as an issue, and make it their issue and really do something about it. It’s never been a high priority issue for them, so as a result it always gets pushed off. It might be out of 20 issues, 13 or 14. It’s never the number one issue, but this is an issue we can solve. G: So, when there is an ongoing debate over whether to continue aid and welfare for American citizens, how do you think you can get congress to continue working to sponsor international aid? TH: It’s a tough issue, but as I read the scripture — and there’s over 2,500 verses in the Bible that deal with it — God says “Feed the people.” Whether it’s women and children, orphans and widows, poor people, elderly people — it doesn’t say “I just want you to feed those people in the United States.” You feed them overseas, too. And you feed the alien, and you feed the people in Sudan and North Korea and the Congo. You do your best to help them. I take the scriptures very seriously, and I think that’s what God wants us to do. G: You serve on the board of advisors for Opportunity International. What role do you see microfinance playing in solving global economic justice and poverty issues? TH: I think it’s important because microcredit is one of the keys to getting people back on their feet. To get people to start their own businesses, to give small loans, to provide financial services to the poorest of the poor: something banks really do not do. Microcredit really works. Opportunity International and groups like them provide an invaluable service, especially to women. And, 98 percent of the loans are paid back — most banks would like to have that kind of record. It produces a lot of jobs, it increases the gross domestic product of the country, and increases the wealth of the family of the individual.
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Tony Hall was a Congressman from Dayton, Ohio, for 24 years and served as U.S. ambassador to the United Nations Agencies for Food and Agriculture from 2002 to 2006.
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ian.mcdonald@pepperdine.edu
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NEWS
March 22, 2012
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A5
A private affair: Star-studded Malibu struggles with celebrities’ privacy, paparazzi’s free press By HEATHER MANES SENIOR STAFF WRITER
The price tag on Malibu real estate is already pretty steep, but it often pales in comparison to the value of those residing within those hillside homes or beach front bungalows. Photographs alone of A-list celebrities around town are often sold from anywhere between $6,000 to $100,000 each, which has inevitably turned Malibu into a celebrity gossip hub teeming with paparazzi. Getting that golden photograph, however, has become a greater issue in recent years as some paparazzi will stop at nothing to get the perfect shot. Whether it’s trespassing, speeding through stop signs or using a telephoto lens to take a photo of Jennifer Aniston sunbathing topless in her backyard, paparazzi have broken laws and in some cases explicitly violated some celebrities’ fleeting rights to privacy. On the other hand, some argue that celebrities have positioned themselves in the public’s eye and the first amendment gives press the right to be that eye. The debate between the right to privacy and freedom of the press is an ongoing issue in Malibu especially, even forcing residents into the courtroom. In June 2008, at Little Dume Beach, Malibu residents Skylar Peak and John Hildebrand ended up in a fight with a French paparazzo who was attempting to photograph Matthew McConaughey surfing. Peak and Hildebrand faced assault charges following the incident, which were dropped after a second mistrial in 2010. “The most important thing that stemmed from that incident was the public safety issue,” Peak said. “The paparazzi pose a public safety problem here in Malibu, running stop signs and speeding through residential neighborhoods, which should be stopped.” Peak, who is running for city council, agrees that paparazzi have a right to do their job and sustain a livelihood. However, he believes they frequently
overstep their boundaries, such as during the 2008 incident that took place on a private part of the beach, according to Peak. “The people that were there that day know what happened, and I think we all agree we wish nothing physical had happened,” Peak wrote in an email separate from the interview. “I felt in the moment I was doing something to protect the privacy of our community and was very threatened by them … I will always stand up for privacy in this community.” In Malibu, residents frequently run into paparazzi mobs around town and for some, the celebrities aren’t the only people bothered by their presence. “They’re a pain in the neck,” said Malibu resident Sheila Becker, who has lived in Malibu for 12 years. “They’re obstructive — especially when they’re hanging around store fronts and windows and you can’t get through them.” Setting boundaries for paparazzi, however, is difficult to enforce, even in “Paparazzi Free Zones” such as at the Malibu Lumber Yard. Paparazzi can disguise themselves as private citizens before walking onto the premises or wait and take photos from the sidewalk of celebrities entering or exiting businesses. Despite their tactics, paparazzi do have the right to take pictures in public spaces. And because Malibu is known as a popular spot for paparazzi, residents and celebrities alike expect inconveniences from paparazzi in a town as starstudded as Malibu. “The paparazzi are fine. As far as the inconveniences and what they put people through, it’s the price you pay for asking for $5 or $10 million to be in a movie,” explains Malibu resident Ron Weiner. “It adds to the color of Malibu. They can be a little out of hand … but it’s a glorious place to live out here. The stars have a presence here and the paparazzi add to the color of our community… otherwise we’d be bored to death.” When it comes to determining the
rights of celebrities, privacy is difficult Though these cases were successful to define. Technically, even private citi- for the celebrities, the press usually has zens can be photographed and videoed the upper hand in legal battles. In orin public places. (Usually this isn’t the der for a celebrity to obtain a restraincase because a photograph of a private ing order or file a lawsuit, he or she has citizen isn’t newsworthy enough to me- to direct it at a specific paparazzo, who dia outlets.) One of the would be diffibiggest differences in cult to identify privacy rights between when they swarm “The stars have a celebrity and a private in packs. Often, a presence here citizen is that news outit may not even and the paparazzi lets can pry into private be the same paadd to the color of lives of public figures, parazzo causing but not for private citiproblems. our community… zens. “There’s no otherwise we’d be “In the eyes of the such thing as a bored to death.” law, they [public fig‘keep the world ures] are selling their away’ restraining —Ron Weiner Malibu Resident image and so do give up order,” Pfeiffer some privacy rights,” said in regard media law Professor Jon to lawsuits filed Pfeiffer said. Pfeiffer by celebrities atalso works as an entertainment lawyer. tempting to obtain blanket restraining That is not to say that paparazzi have orders. the unhindered rights to push cameras In addition to the problem identifyin celebrities’ faces. There are still lines ing specific paparazzo, celebrities are ofpaparazzi can cross even in public places. ten caught in overwhelming situations In 1973, one of the first groundbreaking that lead to reactions that paparazzi then trials involving paparazzi took place be- use as front page stories. For example, tween paparazzo Ron Galella and Jackie in 2006, Britney Spears was swarmed Kennedy Onassis. Galella stalked the by paparazzi near Starbucks in Malibu Kennedy children at their schools and and while attempting to make a quick closely followed the family, often jump- getaway, she drove off with her baby in ing in their path and endangering their her lap. Paparazzi sold these pictures as a well-being. Jackie O., though a public story, which people later bought off the figure, was able to obtain a restraining shelves in the supermarket. order against Galella. “They [celebrities] are human beings “This case showed there are limits and they aren’t how the paparazzi preson paparazzi and there actually is a such ent them. There’s a falsity about it all,” thing as harassing and being too intru- Becker commented, regarding how the sive,” Pfeiffer explained. In this case, the celebrity gossip industry uses the photos constant obstructions in the Kennedys’’ taken by paparazzi. lives were ruled as more significant than Yet these photos are used because, the newsworthiness (or the value to the simply enough, the celebrity gossip news media) of Galella’s photos. industry is an extremely lucrative one. The 2006 case involving Jennifer An- The more vigorous paparazzi can make iston suing a paparazzo for photograph- upwards of one million dollars a year. ing her sunbathing topless also helped Also, circulation of tabloid magazines define privacy. Because she was in her such as People or US Weekly are somebackyard and because the paparazzo times more than double the circulation had to use a telephoto lens, there was of major U.S. newspapers. For example, a reasonable expectation for privacy for People magazine, one of the more popAniston and was able to win the case. ular celebrity gossip magazines, had an
Legislation: Malibu ordinance planned to ban chain stores
could buy something where you couldn’t buy it at every mall it was a destination store.” It terms of the banning of chain stores, council of the cities study of retail outlets that there only 16 out of the 66 stores Malibu local Marshall Coben commentare chains and “it is disingenuous to say ed, “I would say it is clear that if they are successful, Malibu will continue to the chains are coming.” Koss went on to say that banning attract tourism and shoppers other than chain stores in Malibu is simply address- locals. If they allow developers to direct development in Malibu, we will look like ing a “problem that doesn’t exist.” every other rat s*** hole The man behind the from San Diego to Santa deli counter and the ownMonica and we will lose er of Malibu Kitchen, whatever charm we still Bill Miller, said, “I have “Malibu will have. People love rural to make the decision if I maintain its and quint places.” want to stay in this. This rural character According to the was never what I wanted. by establishing Malibu City Council I don’t know that I want Agenda Report prepared programs and to be in the same shopon March 2, 2012, planping center where Sephopolicies that ning staff is scheduled to ra is five steps away and avoid suburbring a linked detail to Nike is five steps away banization and the Council at its regular and every brand in the commercializameeting on March 26, world is five steps away.” 2012, This linked detail Miller went on to say, tion of its natuwill request guidance “When I came here 10 to ral and cultural on whether or not the 12 years ago this shopresources.” staff should begin putping center was all wood. ting together a statement It looked like we had —City of Malibu’s General Plan that requires commercial porches all over it looked modification to start the like we had an old, you public review process. know. Except for hitchThe question of ing posts for horses, it whether or not banning chain stores will really looked like an old Western town.” When asked about how Malibu has help or hurt the economy in Malibu as changed over the past decade Miller well as how that will affect the local busiclaimed, “Apparently Chipotle is coming nesses still up and running is one of the and so that is going to really annoy the key issues at hand. With gas prices poised people that are locals, it is going to kill to surpass five dollars this summer, it is Howdy’s or at least really hurt him and any persons wonder why people would he is going to have to make a change of drive up the coast to Malibu to do their shopping at stores that the could shop at what he does.” Miller continued “These are all mall by their own home. Miller said “It worries me that this experiences coming to a place where people used to come here to get away from place is going to expand and expand. I that, to come to a place where you go to am a big believer in expanding by conone of a kind, you go to a store that you solidating by making it grander by pullFrom A1
ing in and pulling back, maybe making it smaller. I believe that, especially in these times, keeping it simple will make better people and it will be a better life for all of us.” Malibu has been a homey destination location since well before its incorporation as a city in 1991. The City of Malibu’s General Plan in part reads: “Malibu is a unique land and marine environment and residential community whose citizen’s have historically evidenced a commitment to sacrifice urban and suburban conveniences in order to protect that environment and lifestyle, and to preserve unaltered natural resources and rural characteristics.” The mission statement goes on to say that “Malibu will maintain its rural character by establishing programs and policies that avoid suburbanization and commercialization of its natural and cultural resources.” Ulich said her goal of this ban would be so “Malibu can retain its unique character and charm.” She added to her statement “Please note, any and all chains may come to Malibu under the draft ordinance, they just have to have unique signage and 51 percent unique merchandise.” An extensive amount of research remains before the banning of chain stores could ever become a reality for Malibu, and there are plenty of other urgent issues going on in this town currently.
hanna.houglum@pepperdine.edu
average circulation of 3,569,811 over six months in 2011, whereas the New York Times weekday paper reached an average of only 1,150,589 people. Subscription fees can be taken into consideration, but both publications’ fees are comparable: The New York Times sells its Monday through Friday paper for $3.85 a week (which amounts to 77 cents each) and People, with a subscription for 54 weekly issues, costs about $2.00 per issue. There is no lack of online celebrity gossip sites either, as sites like Perezhilton.com and TMZ.com are extremely popular. The latter receives an estimated 19,000,000 unique visitors per month as of 2012. In this regard, the paparazzi have a huge demand to fulfill, which greatly substantiates their claim that stalking celebrities on Saturday afternoons is newsworthy. And though celebrities may feel constantly hounded and upset that they can’t go get coffee without being obstructed by paparazzi, the photos have partially brought them their fame and kept them in the limelight. The fine line between celebrities’ right to privacy and the right for paparazzi to make a living is constant battle zone, resulting in an endless stream of court battles and tabloid controversies. “They’re two competing rights… It’s a balancing act [in regards to the law],” Pfeiffer said. According to Peak, defining and enforcing that line will be a challenge, but he feels it is important to address the issue now rather than later. “I feel it’s one thing for a paparazzi [sic] to be doing a job, the client poses, they take a photo and leave. But lots of them stick around and it’s like Packer game mentality,” Peak said. “I hope people will start being more proactive and reporting illegal activity. We need to be more proactive before someone gets killed.”
heather.manes@pepperdine.edu
A6 Graphic
NEWS
March 22, 2012
In August 2012, new doors of success will open In August 2012, new in Savannah, GA. doors of success will open In August 2012, new in Savannah, GA. doors of success will open IninAugust 2012,GA. new Savannah, doors of success will open in Savannah, GA. The new Savannah Law School is honored to join the
Savannah Community and the Atlantic Coastal Region.
The new Savannah Law School is honored to join the The new Savannah Law School (SLS), a branch of SLS will offer a Juris Doctor program that may be earned Savannah Community and the Atlantic Coastal ABA-accredited Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School, in the full-time day, part-time dayRegion. or part-time evening will begin classes Fall 2012.
The new Savannah Law School (SLS), a branch of ABA-accredited Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School, With thewillnew SLS, students from the Savannah begin classes Fall 2012.
area and throughout the Atlantic Coastal RegionWith canthe begin theirstudents legal careers new SLS, from the closer Savannah area and throughout the Atlantic Coastal to home. And students from around the canworld begin can their live legaland careers countryRegion and the learncloser in to home. And students from around the a community rich in culture, heritage and country and the world can live and learn in southern hospitality just minutes froma branch of The new Savannah … Law School (SLS), a community rich in culture, heritage and some of the most pristine beaches onfrom the ABA-accredited Atlanta’s Marshall Law School, southern hospitality …John just minutes will begin classes Fall 2012. Atlantic coast. some of the most pristine beaches on the
program. At SLS, both traditional and non-traditional stu-
SLS will offer a Juris Doctor program that may be earned dents can acquire the skills necessary to enter the in the full-time day, part-time day or part-time evening well-equipped and ready stuto practice program. Atprofession SLS, both traditional and non-traditional law.acquire the skills necessary to enter the dents can profession well-equipped and ready to practice law. We are confident that the city, legal and
The new Savannah Law School is honored to join the Savannah Community and the Atlantic Coastal Region. business communities and residents will We are confident that the city, legal and welcome you and help you experience
business communities and residents will the Doctor charmed life thatthat is Savannah. SLS will offer awelcome Juris program may be earned you and help you experience in the full-time day, part-time part-time evening the charmed lifeday that or is Savannah.
program.is At honored SLS, both traditional The new Savannah Law School to and joinnon-traditional the students can acquire the skills necessary to enter the Atlantic coast. Savannah Community and the Atlantic With the new SLS, students from the Savannah professionCoastal well-equippedRegion. and ready to practice
For throughout more information, Apply today area and the Atlanticdownload Coastal our viewbook at www.savannahlawschool.org. law. For more information, download our viewbook at www.savannahlawschool.org. Apply today The new Savannah Law School a branch SLS will offer a Juris Doctororprogram may be earned from your smartphone or tablet atofm.savannahlawschool.org on thethat internet at Region can begin their legal careers(SLS), closer from your smartphone or tablet at m.savannahlawschool.org or on the internet at ABA-accredited Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School, in the full-time day, part-time day or part-time evening www.savannahlawschool.org/apply or call the Office ofWe Admissions atthat 912-346-1657. to home. And students from around the are confident the city, legal and www.savannahlawschool.org/apply or call the OfficeAtofSLS, Admissions at 912-346-1657. will begin classes Fall 2012. program. both traditional and non-traditional stucountry and the world can live and learn in business communities and residents will dents can acquire the skills necessary to enter the a Dean community richSLS, in culture, heritage and welcome andand help you to experience The is fully informed as to the Standards andthe Rules of Procedure LawSchools Schools by American Baryou Association. The ready Administration and are the Dean are With the students from Savannah profession well-equipped practice The Dean isnew fully informed as to the Standards and Rules of Procedureforforthe the Approval Approval ofofLaw by the the American Bar Association. The Administration and the Dean southern hospitality … just minutes from the charmed life that is Savannah. determined to devote all necessary resources and in other respects to take all necessary steps to present a program of legal education that will qualify for approval by the American Bar area andto devote throughout Atlantic determined all necessarythe resources and inCoastal other respects to take all necessary steps to present a programlaw. of legal education that will qualify for approval by the American Bar Association. Thethe Lawcan School makes no representation toon any applicant that theAmerican American Association to the graduation of any matriculating The Law Schooltheir makes no representation to the any applicant thatititwill willbe be approved approved bybythe BarBar Association prior prior to the graduation of any matriculating student. student. someAssociation. of most pristine beaches Region begin legal careers closer Atlantic to coast. home. And students from around the We are confident that the city, legal and
country and the world can live and learn in business communities and residents will a community rich in culture, heritage and welcome you and help you experience For more information, download our viewbook at www.savannahlawschool.org. today southern hospitality … just minutes from the charmed life that isApply Savannah. from your at m.savannahlawschool.org or on the internet at SavannahNPaparAd_SavannahMagazine.indd 1 12/14/11 some of the mostsmartphone pristine beachesorontablet the SavannahNPaparAd_SavannahMagazine.indd 1 www.savannahlawschool.org/apply or call the Office of Admissions at 912-346-1657. Atlantic coast.
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The Dean is fullyFor informed as toinformation, the Standards anddownload Rules of Procedure the Approval of Schools by the American Bar Association. The Administration more ourforviewbook atLaw www.savannahlawschool.org. Apply todayand the Dean are determined to devote from all necessary resources and in other respects take all necessary steps to present a program of legal education for approval your smartphone or to tablet at m.savannahlawschool.org or that on will thequalify internet at by the American Bar Association. The Law School makes no representation to any applicant that it will be approved by the American Bar Association prior to the graduation of any matriculating student. www.savannahlawschool.org/apply or call the Office of Admissions at 912-346-1657. The Dean is fully informed as to the Standards and Rules of Procedure for the Approval of Law Schools by the American Bar Association. The Administration and the Dean are determined to devote all necessary resources and in other respects to take all necessary steps to present a program of legal education that will qualify for approval by the American Bar Association. The Law School makes no representation to any applicant that it will be approved by the American Bar Association prior to the graduation of any matriculating student.
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NEWS
March 22, 2012
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A7
RACHEL MILLER / PHOTO ASSISTANT
Artist: Fine Arts Professor Avery Falkner, found a love for contemporary art in New York.
Falkner retires after 39 years as art prof a musician and my son Ryan is a storyboard artist.” Not only does Falkner enjoy visual art, What would the world be like without ar- he also enjoys music, travel and film, foreign tistic expression? “Drab!” exclaimed Fine Arts films in particular. He explained that he and professor of 39 years, Avery Falkner. his wife thoroughly enjoy learning about oth“[Art] is a natural thing,” Falkner ex- er cultures. In the future, they hope to travel pressed. “In all cultures, you have people do- to South America and New Zealand. ing artistic things. In the most primitive and “It’s always a joy to go to another place most sophisticated cultures, art is just a part in the world and experience a whole differof life.” ent culture. To see what people do, what Originally from West Texas, Falkner their culture is like, what their art is like. [Art earned his bachelor’s degree in art from forms] are produced in every culture with Abilene Christian University. He then trav- their own imprint, their own stamp.” eled to New York, where he furthered his For Falkner, art is like an exploration, an studies and found a love for contemporary adventure to be undertaken. His passion is art. one that has allowed him, during his 39 years Falkner did his graduate work at Califor- at Pepperdine, to combine his two loves. nia College of the Arts, and then went back “It’s the best of both worlds as an artist and to his alma mater Abilene Christian and a teacher to be an art professor. There’s the joy taught for four years, before coming to Pep- in being able to do your creative work, and perdine in 1973. then the joy that comes from the students.” To say that Falkner is passionate about art In addition, his profession has allowed would be an understatement. He lives art and him to exercise his passion, something that finds enjoyment and fulfillment in creating. Falkner believes is essential to attaining ful“You’re an artist because you have to be,” fillment. Falkner said. “In a way it’s not a choice. In a “Passion is necessary in the arts and necesway it’s something that has to be. Once you’re sary in life. I think it’s necessary that you’re into it and caught up in the activity, it be- passionate about something,” Falkner said. comes so much a part of you that if you then “Passion is to be excited, to be full of life couldn’t be whatever you did, and to fully engage in what even if you changed mediums, you’re doing, and that’s [you] would be artistic. I think when there’s fulfillment.” “It’s the best of it’s an ingrained disease.” After such a vast career Initially, Falkner considin the art profession, what both worlds as ered going into commercial kind of legacy does Falkner an artist and a art such as automotive design want to leave for Pepperteacher to be and airplanes, which he used dine and his colleagues? His an art profesto draw as a kid. He explained goal involves a plan to apthat in his youth, he was able preciate the world’s collecsor. There’s the to identify types of airplanes tive talents. joy in being in the sky, by both sound and “Live life with love and able to do your sight — the onset of his visual joy. Through that apprecicreative work, acuity. ate and love your own abiliand then the joy But he decided to shift his ties and utilize all the gifts focus when he discovered a fasthat have been given to you that comes from cination with modern art. as an individual. Also, apthe students.” “As soon as I was exposed to preciate those gifts in others the world of fine art, contem—Avery Falkner and recognize the brotherFine Arts Professor porary art in particular, I was hood and sisterhood of huamazed by that and attracted manity to appreciate what to that. I later became very seothers are doing.” rious about painting in underSenior Patrick Lenon graduate school.” said he has been motivated by Falkner’s zeal Falkner listed artist Richard Diebenkorn for teaching. as a favorite painter, in addition to Picasso “If there’s one thing I could say about and other classical painters like Rembrandt Avery, it’s that he did a great job of making and Leonardo Da Vinci. his students feel good about themselves and “I like the way [Diebenkorn] works and building confidence,” Lenon said. “When we leaves a recognizable history in his process,” turned in our paintings, he would comment Falkner said. “It is such an educational thing on everyone’s work—about something that to see, because it demonstrates beginnings stood out to him, that he enjoyed. To have and changes and finally coming around to a your professor comment about something conclusion. It really reveals the process.” meaningful and personal was a really great “Because, what is interesting about art is thing. [Through that] I developed a lot of the process. That’s where the joy is and the confidence in my artwork.” struggle is and where the meaning comes.” Both a passionate artist and father, Falkner explained that creative expression runs in his family. His children all have artistic jobs, but with differing mediums. “Art is not just in the visual sense,” he said. “My chef daughter is creating art, not only in the way it tastes, but in the way it looks, and rachel.miller@pepperdine.edu food is the medium. As well, my son Jason is
By RACHEL MILLER PHOTO ASSISTANT
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PERSPECTIVES March 22, 2012
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»Op-Ed
ZACK JENKINS STAFF WRITER
Overcommitment disadvantages students Pepperdine boasts a first-class education the likes of Stanford and Notre Dame, but its consistently slipping national rankings aren’t falling for no reason. Boasting a No. 2 ranking for Peace Corps Volunteers in 2009, 6 recent Fulbright Scholars, and some 20-plus Teach for America participants in the past two years, Pepperdine is top of the charts for bleeding hearts. Why? Pepperdine students just cannot say no — to people, charities or a myriad of activities. I’m just as guilty of this habit; my activities list as a last semester senior is just as long as my list from high school. “Successful people,” said leadership psychologist and author Dr. Marshall Goldsmith, “have a glaring tendency to overcommit.” Albeit, the things students tend to commit themselves to are typically virtuous and classy. There are the stop-humantrafficking groups, save-the-underdeveloped clubs, the do-gooder green initiatives and the up-and-coming social groups. But signing up for group after group is hardly virtuous. It’s irresponsible and reflects the wanton neediness, lack of focus and cowardly inability to say no — which are far deeper immediate problems to solve than world hunger and Joseph Kony. In a Business Week article published in 2011, overcommitment was dubbed “A happiness killer.” College students in particular “often say yes because [they] want to make others happy and are afraid to admit [they] aren’t superhuman.” It all ties to an inability to resist flattery that eventually corrodes students’ effectiveness and causes them to burn out. Few students can claim they haven’t felt burnt out at some point at Seaver. Why else would the Counseling Center focus on alcohol prevention so heavily? It’s one of the biggest ways most college students let off steam and stress, and of course, it’s hidden or pushed off campus at Pepperdine. With a student body that is hungry for fulfillment (professional, social, spiritual ... what have you), it’s all too common for students to see joining this group and that cause as a way to play the field and find a true vocation, still with the best intentions in mind. The logic fits, right? The more things I try, the more options I can have to pursue after graduation. I, too, am guilty of this flawed logic, and only now, at the end of my undergraduate education, can I see that it probably wasn’t the smartest approach. Narrowing the scope of involvement can bring much more effective results and might leave a real legacy with an organization, club, team, group or business on campus. There is a common business tip that says: “if you must overcommit, overcommit to one thing.” This could help us understand part of the Pepperdine problem. Athletic teams could perform better if our Division I athletes were able to fully commit to their training and education. Our clubs could last longer and achieve more if members weren’t committed to four or five groups and their activities. Our club teams could be infinitely more successful if members had the time and the energy to commit to training. Our social groups could have stronger cultures. Our campus could be more enthusiastic. Our faith and volunteer involvement could be more fulfilling and more consistent. Where the average university students are involved with two to three organizations on campus, my unofficial surveys have shown that Pepperdine students are involved with an average of four to six organizations. We, as eagerly ambitious students, can make our actions more intentional and effective by assuming responsibility for our commitments. For as philosopher Arthur Rubinstein said, “of course there is no formula for success, except perhaps an unconditional acceptance of life and what it brings.”
zack.jenkins@pepperdine.edu
EMILY BRANCH/ ART EDITOR
STAFF EDITORIAL Students overextended, complaints peak during Songfest season As the smoldering ashes of Songfest 2012 grow smaller in our rearview mirror, whispers echo through the halls of Seaver College: “Remind me never to do this again.” Fastforward 51 weeks into the future to Songfest 2013. These same students stumble around campus in a haze of sleep deprivation and malnutrition. They have mysteriously ignored their own advice from the previous year and once again, they believe themselves oppressed. But who is to blame? Is it not these bedazzled, bumbling students who signed up for the late rehearsal hours and prolonged time commitment in the first place? We suggest this editorial be rolled up and tucked into a time capsule, only to be opened pre-Songfest 2013 as a reminder to the aforementioned participants. We agree that Songfest is an honorable and unique tradition, and as such, should be supported by the campus. Undoubtedly, it brings students together in earnest competition while accomplishing the impressive feat of uniting Greeks and non-Greeks. In the same vein, no one can deny that a couple of hours of harmonized mash-ups and flashy choreography is just good clean fun. But the attitude that accompanies this tradition is often characterized more by complaints than by appreciation for the opportunity to perform. Now, we’re not exempting ourselves from this behavior. The Graphic staff is as guilty as anyone else. Indeed, we have mastered the craft of complaining about strenuous
schedules we’ve imposed on ourselves. Again, we are all culpable of the “woe is me” tendency, but let us offer some helpful touchstones if you plan to take up your Songfest cross again next year: • First of all, remind yourself that you chose it. Despite the taskmaster attitude of your directors, not one of you was abducted and forced to jazz square for two hours each night. You paid the costume fee and, with your own hand, signed over your soul on that roll sheet. Like any other commitment, weigh the pros and cons, and roll with the consequences. If your roommate was an athlete and constantly complained about early morning practice and traveling on the weekends, you would tell him or her to quit, right? • Do not, we repeat, do NOT use Songfest as an excuse to get out of class work. Staying up late is certainly not unique to the Songfest clan, so remember your zombie-like state before diving back into the commitment again next year. • We all agree that Songfest is highly entertaining, and truly a wonderful experience for non-performance majors to get a chance to shine (among several hundred other people crammed onto the Smothers stage). But, at the same time, try to keep a balanced perspective. Just take into consideration the fact that there are pale, nocturnal thespians all around you who are continuously rehearsing and performing like you have been for the last couple of weeks. • Remember that this is a com-
petition between friends. While all groups may not have the same, ahem, resources, it is just a fun display of talents among circles of friends. • For all you boys anxiously scrubbing off that pesky eyeliner from last week’s show, two words: baby wipes. • Of course, every group thinks it deserves to win (and if it doesn’t, it’s convinced it took second). If the glorious prize — bragging rights — did not shower down upon your group, have no fear. There’s always next year. We see some of this complaining as a manifestation of the greater Pepperdine psyche. The whining is a symptom, if you will, of the archetypal Pepp student that is all too happy to continue signing up for activities, overbook his or her own schedule, then write a dozen Facebook statuses about the late nights and wearisome schedules — not just Songfest. We are all guilty of this. It can be applied to all aspects of our college lives, from research papers and 8 a.m. classes to chapter meetings and internship requirements. All this is voiced shortly after our parents have wired checks to pay for the very tasks that we deem irksome and stressful. So, as your mother always said: “Quityerbellyachin’.” (What’s that? Your mother isn’t an Appalachian hillbilly?) We should all take a moment in these few quiet, postSongfest weeks to evaluate the state of our schedules and think twice before complaining about the stress that costs each of us fifty thousand dollars a year to endure.
FACE OFF
Executive Editor Sonya Singh Managing Editor Jessica Abu-Ghattas Creative Director Alexa Stoczko News Editor Aubrey Hoeppner Associate News Editor Ian McDonald News Assistants Whitney Irick Andrew Kasselmann Mariella Rudi Ashley Thurmond Sports Editor Narine Adamova Assistant Sports Editor Alysha Tsuji Sports Assistants Mariana Lizarzaburu DeAnJilo Platt-Friday Andy de Burgh Sidley Perspectives Editor Madison Leonard Assistant Perspectives Editor Grace Stearns Life & Arts Editor Edgar Hernandez Assistant Life & Arts Editor Benjamin Kryder Life & Arts Assistants Caneel Anthony Sarah Racker Section Designers Amy Cummins Mallory Cummins Nikki Torriente Garrison Wright Photo Editor Meagan McCarty Photo Assistant Rachel Miller Art Editor Emily Branch Assistant Art Editor James Chung Copy Editors Breanne DeMore Sienna Jackson Lindsay Jakows Kristina McClendon Brooklin Nash Online Managing Editor Al Lai Online Content Editor Kayla Ferguson Online Photo Editor Rebecca Herron PGM President Scott Lawrence Director of Student Journalism Elizabeth Smith Assistant Director of Journalism Courtenay Stallings
“Is Songfest worth the stress?” MARLA HINTON Sophomore YES: I did songfest this year, and I’ll probably do it again next year. I’ll do it again, not because I really want to spend another three weeks up all night or because I love musical theater, but there’s an unspoken social pressure to participate. It’s like, if you don’t do it, you’re not cool anymore. Songfest is fun, but it’s like, after it’s over, I did all that work for a week of shows. Regardless, it unites the school around one thing, whether that is the drudgery of being in the show or the satisfaction of getting to watch it.
WENDY RENTERIA Junior NO: I didn’t do Songfest this year, but I did notice the stress that seems to take over campus while it was happening. One of my professors even rescheduled a midterm just so the students who were doing Songfest would be able to spend more time preparing for the test. That seemed a little weird, since the people in Songfest volunteered to do it and had known about the midterm all semester. Songfest is a great tradition, but I wonder if there is a better way to plan the rehearsals. Instead of scheduling it in the very middle of midterm season, what if it was moved to a different time of year? Or, rather than have three weeks of intense, all-night rehearsals, rehearsals could begin earlier and take place every few days.
Mission Statement: The Graphic is an editorially independent weekly student newspaper for the greater Pepperdine community. It serves the community with news, opinion, contemporary information and a public forum for discussion. The Graphic strengthens students for purpose, service and leadership by developing their skills in writing, editing and publication production, by providing a vehicle to integrate and implement their liberal arts education, and by developing students’ critical thinking through independent editorial judgment. The Graphic participates in Pepperdine’s Christian mission and affirmations, especially the pursuit of truth, excellence and freedom in a context of public service. Although the Graphic reports about Pepperdine University and coordinates with curricula in journalism and other disciplines, it is a student and not a University publication. Views expressed are diverse and, of course, do not correspond to all views of any University board, administration, faculty, staff, student or other constituency.
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PERSPECTIVES
March 22, 2012
Graphic
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Mexico offers speedy election model The blind leading the blind
Ring by Spring: from urban legend to urgent deadline GRACE STEARNS
ASSISTANT PERSPECTIVES EDITOR
Dear Grace, I never realized “Ring by Spring” was so real until this month — it seems like everyone is getting engaged! As a senior with less than two months to seal the deal, what do you recommend I do? Ready to Mingle Dear RTM, I remember the days leading up to my freshman year of college, days I spent laughing at the absurd notion that Pepperdine students frequently got engaged before their 22nd birthdays. I scoffed at those stereotypical Christian school kids, racing down the Stauffer Chapel aisle, eager to jump into a life of Godly wedded bliss without ever experiencing the excitement of the post-grad dating scene. How silly, I thought to myself. How short sighted and irrational. It was easy for my 17-year-old self to laugh contemptuously at those impulsive, naive college seniors, rushing into lifelong commitments without any thought as to what such serious vows might truly mean for the future. I figured they had all been home schooled and were looking to star in the next version of TLC’s “18 Kids and Counting.” I knew better. It was easy for me to laugh. Perhaps it was easy because at 17, something within me felt sure that I, too, would have no problem tying the knot no more than a week after my scheduled graduation date. Back in 2009, 2013 was light-years away. The idea of college life held promise and hope, hope of new people, tall boys and pale green summer 2013 save-the-dates dusted with shimmery embossing powder. Not wanting to appear irrational and dreamy, my cynicism was nothing more than an elaborate ruse to be maintained until the inevitable arrival of a marriage proposal intended for me. Inevitable indeed. Freshman year passed. Sophomore year flew by. I entered junior year with great hope. Hope waned. I, too, have reached the 11th hour of my college dating career sans significant other or trace of any remotely interested party. As I prefer early autumn weddings, I need to get invitations in the mail no later than August, leaving me practically no time to cultivate a serious relationship, provoke a marriage proposal and order a dress in time for the ceremony. Few options remain, RTM, and those that do require extreme confidence: No. 1: Time the Perfect Swoop Scan Facebook for those tiny broken hearts indicating an ended relationship. The emotional stress of intense heartbreak can be quickly manipulated into a rebound situation from which you may benefit. Act quickly enough and the wounded, unsuspecting party may adjust seamlessly into another serious situation, picking up where they left off in the last. Sure they intended to marry someone else a week ago, but who can afford to be so picky in matters of this urgency? No. 2: Woo a Professor Sometimes Pepperdine students are just too immature to embark upon the challenging seas of marriage without elaborate and time consuming coercion. Turn your attention instead to one of the many eligible, elderly faculty members more suited for a long-term commitment as his or her life may not extend much longer. Not only do Pepperdine professors have a stable income (rare in undergrad students), they have all the charm and allure exclusive to members of academia. No. 3: Pop the Question Yourself Humiliating though it might be, you may need to stoop to one knee in the interest of a timely wedding. Embarrassed? Think how flattered the subject of your declaration will feel. Ask enough people and you will no doubt receive at least one tentative yes. You too have entered the elite ranks of “Ring by Spring,” seniors!
grace.stearns@pepperdine.edu
EDGAR HERNANDEZ LIFE & ARTS EDITOR
For many countries around the world, 2012 is a very important year. No, I’m not talking about the Mayan hype. Rather, a number of countries will have elections this year, meaning there’s potential for a lot of change. On July 1, Mexico will hold federal elections in which a new president and 128 members of the senate will be elected to serve six-year terms along with 500 deputies to serve three-year terms in the Chamber of Deputies. Besides that, six states will have gubernatorial elections. Mexico presents an interesting electoral process that requires less time, less money, no vice president picks, and a bit more structure. On the other hand, U.S. elections drag out for more than a year of messy campaigning and require millions of Super PAC-fundraised dollars spread out among way too many nominees (at one point there were nine Republican nominees, nine!). And about vice presidents, let’s just say things might have been a bit simpler without Sarah Palin on the ticket last time around. The electoral process in Mexico is different than what we see here in the United States. Therefore, it presents an interesting model that
contrasts with the current U.S. model of more than a year of heavy campaigning for a party nomination that typically turns into a circus. Presidential candidates are chosen in a very different fashion. The whole process is much faster, and much cheaper. There’s no parade of candidates, vicious attacks on television, or long debates. Mind you, those are just saved for the actual federal elections. In Mexico, every election is a non-incumbent election because of its multi-party system, with three political parties at the head, and a number of small ones. Alliances and coalitions are common in elections and usually are done at the state level. Typically, these alliances end up being a combination of one of the three major parties with any number of the smaller parties. The Party of the Democratic Revolution (PDR), a leftist party, announced Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, known as AMLO to his followers, as their candidate in November. He received the nomination after an internal campaign. This is his second time running for President since losing in 2006 to the National Action Party’s (NAP) Felipe Calderon Hinojosa by less than 1 percent. AMLO, like any democracy-loving individual, called the elections a fraud and hosted massive protests. The Institutional Revolutionary Party (IRP), a center-left party,
officially chose Enrique Pena Nieto as their presidential nominee. The process was also an internal one, but one in which Pena Nieto incidentally ran unopposed. The NAP, the right wing party and the current party in power, chose the first serious female contender for the presidency, Josefina Vazquez Mota, as its nominee. Lastly, the most recently formed party, the New Alliance Party, chose Gabriel Quadri de la Torre as its nominee for the federal election. The four parties have similar ways through which they choose a nominee. All pre-candidates to the presidency have to submit applications for the pre-candidacy within their own party. Each party has a different variation as to what qualifies people to apply for their party’s nomination. Once the applications are reviewed, pre-candidates are allowed to do internal campaigning within the party. In the case of the PDR and IRP, this year the selection process was not a very difficult one seeing as both candidates virtually ran unopposed. The NAP, on the other hand, held primary elections to choose Vazquez Mota. However, these are not primaries like the ones that we see here in the United States. These primaries happen a lot faster. The actual federal election also happens a lot faster. Official campaigning doesn’t start until March 31. This gives the nominees a little under three months to actually cam-
paign throughout the country. This makes the entire process a little less of the media circus that it has become in the United States. Although this doesn’t mean there’s no circus at all. Pena Nieto was the target of heavy criticisms after he couldn’t mention the name of a single book when he was asked about the last book he had read. Another occasion, when someone asked what the price of the tortilla was, he replied by saying that he wasn’t the lady of the house, therefore he didn’t know the price. The Federal Electoral Institute organizes federal elections, which is an autonomous entity that is not supposed to have any connection to any political party and follow the political constitution of the nation. Elections can be divided into two types. On the one hand there are ordinary elections, which are held every three years on the first Sunday of July. Political parties register their candidates at the Federal Electoral Institute. Campaigning is only a few months and must completely stop three days before the election day. On the election day, voting booths are open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. unless there are still people in line waiting to vote, in which case the booths have to wait to close until the line is gone.
edgar.hernandez@pepperdine.edu
Social media spurs armchair activism BROOKLIN NASH COPY EDITOR
The Internet is taking over social life. Everything has shifted, not only to an online focus but an online dependence. Our social, political, cultural and economic lives have all come to be defined by our online presence. A business without a website is more rare than a political candidate without a Twitter account, and when somebody tells you that they don’t have a Facebook account, you can’t help but look at them like they’re cross-eyed. Nevertheless, the question of Internet activity remains relevant as we navigate current issues. The way we use the Internet must constantly be evaluated so that it does not become a crutch for social belonging or self-esteem, but a vehicle for self-actualization. (If you don’t know what I’m talking about, take a minute to Google Abraham Maslow.) Pithy lines and academic jargon aside, there is a current Internet-related question that must be addressed in light of recent events. Modern movements like Kony 2012, Occupy Wall Street and the progression of the GOP race are all clear examples of the presence of armchair activism in our newly minted Internet age. Armchair activism existed long before the first iPhone came out, let alone when the PC was invented. But it is just now coming to see its full potential, what with the plethora of social media tools at our fingertips. The current Urban Dictionary definition of an armchair activist (which is obviously most relevant here) is, “one who sits in their armchair or desk chair and blogs or posts activists issues … without ever really doing anything about said issues or exercising any form of activism.” While this definition may be mostly accurate, it makes one assumption that is unfair to some social media and activists (both armchair and actual): namely, that armchair activism is not actually doing anything for the cause. Online movements get a bad rap merely because they are online. Liking a status, sharing a video, or linking to an article is not seen as “real” action. Critics ask, “Why don’t you get out and do something?” Sure, it’s not as physical as volunteering at a soup kitchen or signing up for Project Serve. But
JAMES CHUNG/ASSISTANT ART EDITOR
we cannot be so naive as to think that these actions have no effect. This assumption ignores the power that the online world has to aid a movement or help a cause. This power comes in two forms: informing individuals and spreading ideas. Sharing the Kony video is nothing near flying to East Africa and volunteering for the Red Cross or Invisible Children. Arguing politics on Facebook with your great-uncle is not the same as attending a rally. But social media allows those who are unable or unwilling to take an active role a chance to play their part (however small that may be). As I write this, the KONY 2012 video on YouTube now has more than 84 million hits. It may be hard to visualize just one person when faced with such a large number, but it took millions of individuals viewing, sharing and liking this video for it to reach the global significance it has achieved. Throughout this process, millions of people who as of last month were unaware of Kony’s existence are now informed of a real and relevant world issue. Regardless of criticism, it
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Letters to the Editor must bear the writerʼs name, signature, class standing, major, address and phone number. Letters must be fewer than 300 words and will be edited for syntax, grammar and brevity. Letters can be mailed to student publications or emailed to graphic@pepperdine.edu.
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is always better to be informed than ignorant. Social media (and armchair activism, through it) allows for power to come to movements and causes through the sharing of information and the spreading of ideas. All of that said, we must view social media as a tool, not as an end unto itself. If any goal expressed online is to be realized offline, there must be a follow through of practical efforts. Armchair activism is the key to creating social momentum by engaging and informing individuals. The key to seeing results is to use this momentum in a useful and practical way. The long and short of modern armchair activism is that it is an opportunity for action that does not take much effort at all, but when taken collectively has the potential for large-scale influence. It’s what we have to work with, and from recent events, we know that it has the capacity to work quite well.
CONTACT US Graphic Pepperdine University 24255 Pacific Coast Hwy. Malibu, CA 90263 310-506-4311 graphic@pepperdine.edu graphicadvertising@pepperdine.edu
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March 22, 2012
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LIFE & ARTS March 22, 2012
A nondisposable problem How plastic pollutes both the environment and your body By HEATHER MANES SENIOR STAFF WRITER
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Plastic, unlike most raw materials, doesn’t come from the earth. Plastic comes from laboratories, and though it is one of the cheapest, most useful and most malleable materials available, its chemicals and waste pose a serious risk to the health of its consumers and the planet. Since the 1950s, plastic has played an increasingly ubiquitous role in our everyday lives, which warrants a closer look at the material people rely so much upon. So for one week, I decided to track how much plastic I disposed of and came into contact with, and the results were substantial.
HEATHER MANES / SENIOR STAFF WRITER
One discovery was that, every day, I consumed something that came from plastic packaging. I bought spaghetti that was wrapped in plastic, a salad from Waves Cafe in a plastic container, yogurt from a plastic cup and Snapple from a plastic bottle, just to name a few examples. Two chemicals commonly used in plastic are bisphenol-a (BPA) and phthalates; the first makes plastic hard and clear (such as in Tupperware, water bottles and the lining of soft drink and food cans), the latter makes plastic soft (such as in raincoats, shower curtains and rubber ducks). BPA, which is used in a lot of food packaging
ÂťSee PLASTIC, B5
LIFE & ARTS
B2 Graphic
March 22, 2012
Recognize a
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COURTESY OF ASK AROUND PRODUCTIONS
Unromantic: With an ensemble of fresh talent, “Exit Strategy” explores the other side of love.
Movie Review: New idea misses mark By KAYLA FERGUSON ONLINE CONTENT EDITOR
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It’s definitely unromantic and it’s definitely a comedy. It’s intentionally awkward sometimes, and unintentionally painful during others. It’s witty in thought but average in execution. “Exit Strategy,” directed by Michael Whitton in his directorial debut, premiered in Los Angeles Friday, March 9 to a sold-out crowd. Whether that crowd was impressed is another question. The cast is young, with most of the actors, including Jameel Saleem, Kimelia Weathers and Quincy “QDeezy” Harris, making their first acting appearance. Big Boy from Los Angeles’ Power 106 radio station and comedian Kevin Hart (“Death at a Funeral” and “40 Year Old Virgin”) also made an appearance, which significantly helped to boost the film’s appeal to the general movie-goer. At times the acting was marginal. It also could have been much worse. From a technical standpoint, the experienced critic could be tough. But this film was independent, and fans wanting to be impressed by Whitton’s first feature film likely overlooked the intermittent unfocused shots. The greater problem was in the script itself, with some scenes quickly building only to end in an anticlimactic “fade” edit, leaving the viewer wondering, “What was I supposed to get out of that?” Some lines seemed simply out of place and only added unnecessary banter to some already unnecessary scenes. Scoop, the comically out-of-place high school kid, was funny — at times — but definitely not essential and therefore somewhat forgettable. The critique of the script itself could continue, but the general point remains — it wasn’t a Ste-
ven Spielberg film by a long shot. But then again it wasn’t trying to be and this film accomplished what it set out to be: an unromantic comedy. So despite all the criticism, this film is still one worth seeing. This film was a first for nearly everyone involved, and for that it deserves credit. The execution of the tired “breakup” idea was original and at times very relatable. The set design was also very memorable and definitely added to the “suffocating” feeling of the tortuous relationship. The characters themselves were far from generic and remain quite memorable, each with their own discernable personality. In fact, the movie would not have existed without the overbearing “psychotic” personality of girlfriend Kim (Kimelia Weathers) in contrast with the frustratingly passive character of James (Jameel Saleem). Equally important were the friends, Carville (Quincy “QDeezy” Harris) and Leona who had intriguing characteristics of their own and allowed the misery of James to continue for what seemed to be their own enjoyment. That alone is comedic gold. Without any of these dynamics the movie simply would not have been a comedy or anything else. Much could have been improved, but the movie entertained, and therefore must be considered successful on some level. Although it felt flat in numerous areas, “Exit Strategy” overall met audience expectations. Following closely on the heels of Oscar winning movies such as “Hugo,” “The Artist,” “The Help” and “The Iron Lady,” who doesn’t want to relax with a (usually) witty and less-thanfamily-friendly comedy with absolutely nothing “romantic” about it?
kayla.ferguson@pepperdine.edu
Take a risk for a change BRITT KIDD STAFF WRITER
How many times a week do you repeat the same activities, have the same conversations and complete the same tasks? How many times a week do you try something completely different and new? How often do you throw yourself outside of your comfort zone? Most busy people tend to find themselves getting into an unbreakable, boring routine with very little change. Living life on the edge and having new experiences is important, yet most people find little time or make little effort. With these three tips, you can stop the excuses and start adding more excitement to your life. Tip No. 1 — Stop Saying No. When toddlers are first learning how to talk, many parenting books advise parents to refrain from using the word “no” in front of their children. Young children, especially in their “terrible 2’s” will hear the word and start saying “no” all the time. Although the terrible 2’s are long past, many adults use this word in their vocabulary without even noticing it. When you say “no,” you immediately cut yourself off from new experiences, meeting different people and the enjoyment of living life spontaneously. “No” has a negative and unexciting connotation. Using this word frequently may cause others to stop asking you to try new things because they know that you will automatically write them off with a “no.” Instead of immediately saying no when someone asks you to join an activity or try something new, start saying “yes” more often. I’m not saying you have to become Jim Carey in “Yes Man,” but just try making “yes” a staple in your vocabulary. How many times do you say “no” in a day? Try a little experiment and count how many times in a day you say “no,” Then, for every two times you say no, try making up for it by saying yes. By simply saying yes more often, you will automatically attract more
exciting opportunities into your life. To recap: For every two no’s, there must be a yes. Tip No. 2 — Stop Making Excuses. OK, I get it: We are very busy, and there never seems to be enough hours in the day to finish tasks. If you constantly hide behind the shield of “I’m too busy” or “I can’t, I don’t have time,” how are you ever going to meet new people and try new things? When you have a demanding schedule and lead a busy life, it is very easy to fall into a monotonous pattern and hide behind the “I’m Busy” shield. When you put up this shield, you completely cut yourself off from opportunities and excitement. If you are actually so busy to the point where you cannot make any room for change, perhaps you need to reevaluate your schedule. We are not machines built to move from task to task — something has got to give. Although some people actually do lead incredibly overbooked lifestyles, most of us do not, and we use our busy shield as an excuse. In fact, many times we are in denial about our busyness, and we end up tricking ourselves into thinking we are far busier. This sense of denial builds the shield and blocks all spontaneity. Disarm the denial and take the “shield free” challenge. Stop hiding behind your excuses, and start living more. Tip No. 3 — See the Opportunity in the Unknown. We have all heard FDR’s famous inaugural quote, “We have nothing to fear but fear itself ”… but really! Often times we hold ourselves back or place ourselves in a box because we fear the unknown. When you live in a cloud of fear and uncertainty, you will never live life to the fullest. Instead of fearing the future and fearing change, see it as an opportunity for growth and excitement. Living a repetitive and monotonous lifestyle breeds boredom and burn out. However, when you try something new every week, it keeps you on your feet seeking more excitement. When you break down the fortress of fear, you will see the thrill and enjoyment in new activities.
brittany.kidd@pepperdine.edu
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LIFE & ARTS
March 22, 2012
Graphic
MEAGAN MCCARTY / PHOTO EDITOR
This old thing?: The Seaver Academic Complex takes you back in time to the 1990s.
Please help the SAC Editor’s Note: This is a day in the life of the Seaver Academic Complex. A sad trailer. By EDGAR HERNANDEZ LIFE & ARTS EDITOR
I pray it’s Wednesday, since that’s the day I have the easiest load and deal with the least amount of students. They don’t understand that their criticisms hurt and that I want to leave as much as they want me to leave … Sadly, I realize it’s Monday. It’s 7:30 a.m. and time to get started. The first wave of students will hit around 8 a.m., then I’ll endure the language chapels that I know students only attend because they are shorter than Convo and require no effort. I dislike them. It all begins with the hollow creaking sound the carpeted wooded floor makes when those huffing and puffing people walk through the door. They don’t understand that I simply was not built for this. The main hallways make a rectangle, with a few offshoots, creating quite a few windowless classrooms inside. The worst one is classroom 124. It lies right at my core. With no windows close by and so deep inside, I can feel how I suffocate the students. At first I feel sorry, but then the apathy grows in me. What do I care about them for? The first classes settle in as the last doors slam closed, rattling me completely. I don’t
even understand why those doors are there; all they do is slam and creek, and might actually amplify the noise throughout the hallways. As the classes begin, the cacophony of students trying to pronounce foreign languages in beginner classes overwhelms me. Is that Italian? No, it’s Spanish. Wait, maybe French? I used to care in the beginning, just like I cared about those silly pictures of cell phones hanging around the hallway. Oh, how the times change. Now it’s nearing noon, another problem becomes evident — my bowel movement. I’ve tried to explain that I can’t help it. I wasn’t made to last this long under these awful conditions. However, the notoriously bad smell that clouds your hallways is only too conspicuous, and unpleasant for everyone involved. Finally, around 6 p.m., my day begins to wind down. I just sit there. I try to make conversation with the law school and the CCB, both so shiny and odor-free, but they are both busy at work and don’t have time. As unfortunate as my existence is, there’s one thing I can’t complain about: the beautiful Malibu sunsets. For the rest of the evening, all I do is sit there, admire the sunset, and look longingly at the sea. “Help,” I whisper. But no one is around edgar.hernandez@pepperdine.edu to hear.
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LIFE & ARTS
B4 Graphic JOSH DOWNS STAFF WRITER
March 22, 2012
Culinary Corner: Cake for days By EDGAR HERNANDEZ LIFE & ARTS EDITOR
My life on the Z-list: Back to the future Yesterday afternoon, a rugged FedEx worker, mid 50s, but surprisingly built, accosted me. He looked terrified (and oddly familiar), almost as if he were delivering orders for his own execution. After I signed for my package, he clumsily dropped his pen and ran toward his truck while he screamed, “Keep it, you monster! It’s only a company pen, anyways!” I picked it up and looked down into my porcelain hands. Sure enough. It was indeed only a FedEx pen. I always have the worst of luck. Anyways, I proceeded to open the package, expecting it to be my Magic School Bus Early Readers paperback collection. However, all I found was a poorly written letter. It had been hastily stuffed into a McDonald’s apple pie box and sealed with a cleverly crafted wax kiss that smelled of mint chocolate and Warheads. The letter was written on a napkin, scribbled with glistening mercury and what I can only assume was BBQ sauce (perhaps blood). I began to tremble and drool as I recognized the odd writing’s inverted grammatical syntax, the surplus of parenthetical phrases and the crude sketching of a hungry hungry hippo in the upper left corner. I knew exactly who had written this letter. It read: Dear Joshua, First off, I apologize for the odd behavior of my minion, Zachary. He is an inconsequential Kentuckian time mule who, if I programmed correctly, should have either returned to 2047 or spontaneously combusted upon your opening of the apple pie box. Remember when you were 10 and you promised yourself that if you ever needed to contact yourself from another time, you would use a Hungry Hungry Hippo as a code of trust? Well, Joshua (or J-Dog, as you will soon be called), “It’s me. Alan,” (it’s obviously future Josh, but that’s my favorite line from “Jumanji”). I am writing from 2047, where I am happily married to Aubrey Anderson-Emmons (Lily, from Modern Family — we just got married recently, it’s not weird), the proud owner of the Confederate States (yeah, they’re back and they’re mine), and People Magazine’s 2045 Sexiest Man Alive (due to a recent redefinition of the word “man”). I am shaven, happy and my toothbrush just told me that, judging by today’s plaque build-up, my probable life expectancy is 137. I have several very important things to tell you, Josh, so get cozy on the brown couch and pay attention (the blue one’s gonna break tomorrow). No. 1 Money is a scam. The general public only recently learned that it is completely legal to walk into any store, take anything you wish and walk out. The authorities can only arrest you for being sneaky about it. Being human entitles you to everything you want. Never forget it. The institution of money was created by the same prankster who invented ovenpreheating time, yield signs, Blu-rays, broccoli, France, toenails and BMIs. No. 2 Don’t trust Bieber (unless you liked the Holocaust). No. 3 The career of Adele will blow your mind. You’d be wise to follow her career. She went mainstream, lowstream, vintage, retro, druggie-rock, disappeared for four years that she claims not to remember, revival, survival, viral, sex change, techno, screamo, Broadway, sex change, soul sister and then sitcom. All before 2017. Let’s just say that it only gets better from there (she’s the Queen of Africa right now). Never let go of her. No. 4 Don’t eat that sausage you find on the beach next Tuesday. Unless you wanted to skip April anyways. The grilled cheese is fine. No. 5 CONVOCATION IS ON YOUR TRANSCRIPT. But it’s OK because you never really wanted a job anyway. Hey, J-Dog, my Hot Pocket’s done cooking (yeah, they’re still around), so I gotta wrap this up. Just keep smiling and remember to do the exact opposite of what society tells you to. Demilovato (we say that now — it means “of my little love”), J-Dog P.S. Our teddy bear Benjamin was elected president of Uganda in 2012. NEVER release that footage of his nudie rant around our room, OK?
joshua.downs@pepperdine.edu
This week’s recipe was inspired by my high school days. During my senior year in high school I started working at a Baskin-Robbins. Although I would never work at a Baskin-Robbins again, at the time it was a pretty good job for someone in high school. It required little-to-no brainpower, I got to work with a lot of my friends, and I ate ice cream every day. One of the things that I had to do besides scoop ice cream — years later my right forearm is still so much stronger than the left because of months of ice cream scooping — was help make clown cones, ice cream pie and ice cream cakes. Clown cones were really annoying to make because of the decoration required. A clown cone is an ice cream cone that is flipped upside down on a cookie so as to make the cone look like a hat. Then all you need to do is add a face, ears and hair. Often my clown cones ended up cross-eyed looking like they were wearing a bad weave. Ice cream pies were not so bad, but sometimes it was annoying to have to deal with the different things that go on top of the pie. Ice cream cakes, on the other hand, were always fun to make, unless it was a chocolate cake. When I made cakes, all I had to do was to add a layer of ice cream on top of some cake. The more difficult ones to make were anything that was a full sheet or bigger. Technically a full sheet was 32 scoops of ice cream, so you can imagine how many more scoops anything bigger would require. The worst cakes to make were the ones with chocolate ice cream. Chocolate ice cream melts at a faster rate than any other ice cream, making it more difficult to manipulate. It had been a long time since I had made an ice cream cake, and I really wanted to see if I was capable of making one without all the tools that Baskin-Robbins provides. It was also very timely since it was a special person’s birthday. I went to the local grocery store and picked up the cheapest cake mix and ice cream I could find. Some things that I already had and didn’t buy were eggs, vegetable oil, flour, PAM, a pan to make the cake in and one cake spatula. I also waddled over to the dairy section and got whipped cream that comes in a carton container to frost the cake. I had never made a cake before — the ones we used in Baskin-Robbins were sent to us frozen, so I required some assistance for this part. If there’s no one that can assist you, read the back of the box. Those directions tend to give you the desired results. I put the cake mix in a bowl and added three eggs and half a cup of vegetable oil. I started mixing it all together and was very confused when the result was very thick. Luckily I remembered I had not added a cup of water to the mix. Who knows what kind of monster I could have created if I had not added the water.
ALEXA STOCZKO / CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Let them eat cake, and ice cream too: As intimidating as it may seem, an ice cream cake is actually quite easy to make. Months of working at Baskin-Robbins gave me the skills, and the forearms, to make ice cream cakes.
Before putting the mix in the cake pan, my friend sprayed the pan with PAM and had me sprinkle some flour on it. This would keep the cake from sticking to the pan. We placed the pan with the mix in an oven that was preheated to 350 degrees and forty five minutes later, out came a cake. I let the cake cool down for a while before I moved on to phase two. For phase two, you first need to cut off the top part of the cake. The smooth part won’t really let the ice cream hold on to the cake when you’re putting it on. Once the top had come off, I removed the cake from the pan and placed it on a plastic plate that was covered by aluminum foil. I took out the ice cream I was going to use, mint chocolate chip and Oreo cookies and cream, and I let it sit out for a little bit. It’s a lot easier to manipulate ice cream when it begins to melt a little — If only the SAC would melt …. (see story on B3) I then scooped ice cream onto the cake. The better shaped your scoops are the easier it’ll be to mold the ice cream on top. Be sure to have a cup of water in which you can dip the scooper — water makes it easier to scoop ice cream. Once I had covered the entire cake with a top layer of ice cream, I began to give it some shape. For this I used a butter knife and simply began evening out the ice cream. In some places I had to add a little more ice cream so that it would be more even. It was easier to use the smooth parth of the butter knife rather than the side with ridges. Once it was as even as I would be able to get it, I popped it in the freezer. Then I began to work on the whipped cream. This was hard. Unless you have one of those professional cake mixers that
will keep mixing without you having to be there holding everything in place, this is going to be difficult. Why not use regular frosting? Because regular frosting does not freeze as well as the whipped cream. I mixed the whipped cream as best I could, which wasn’t great, and added some food coloring to make it green. Once the cake was completely frozen, I took it out and began covering it with the whipped cream. I don’t remember this part being that difficult when I worked at Baskin-Robbins. However, since the whipped cream wasn’t as whipped as it should have been it was hard to manipulate it to cover the entire cake. After fighting the whipped cream, the cake was decently covered. Back in the freezer it went, and it’s done, unless you have some of those fancy cake decorators and want to have a field day with the cake. Take out the cake five to ten minutes before it’s going to be served, otherwise you’ll struggle cutting it. The process of making a cake was definitely a stroll down memory lane, and surprisingly it ended up tasting really good
edgar.hernandez@pepperdine.edu
Ingredients: 1 box of cake mix 3 eggs 1/2 a cup of vegetable oil 1 cup of water 2 quarts of ice cream 1 carton of whipped cream
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LIFE & ARTS
March 22, 2012
Graphic
Plastic: material may pose health problems From B1
and lining, has been shown to leack from packaging and into the body. In 2003 to 2004, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention tested urine samples in more than 2,500 adults and children and found detectable levels of BPA in 93 percent of the sample. Exposure to BPA (even in small amounts) has been linked to serious side effects, such as breast and prostate cancer, early onset of puberty, obesity and hyperactivity in children, according to a 2010 study by researchers Rubin and Soto. Researchers from the plastics and chemical industry, however, continue to suggest that small amounts have unclear effects on the body. In addition, BPA is similar to the hormone estrogen, and in some studies has been linked to fertility problems for males such as low sperm count and decreased sperm quality, according to a 2007 study conducted by Vandenberg, Hauser, Marcus, Olea and Weslshons. Phthalates, too, have been shown to cause similar effects. Phthalates seem to be even more ubiquitous than BPA, as they are used in oily substances such as lotions and cosmetics and are absorbed through the skin as well as ingested. Also, the refreshing scents we inhale when climbing in a new car or from a new shower curtain are phthalates released from the product. Though there are more and more studies from different researchers showing similar hormonal, neural and developmental effects from BPA and phthalates, there are still debates about how extensive the effects actually are on the general population. “I think that the reason there is disagreement among scientists is because the effects are small,” said Dr. James White, a professor
of organic chemistry at Pepperdine. “Scientists are comfortable with uncertainty and disagreeing is part of developing a consensus and figuring out what questions should be pursued most vigorously to gain more certainty.” Nevertheless, the fact that scientists are raising health concerns is reason enough to consider just how much plastic we do consume. Despite the fact that I consumed food and drink from plastic every day, I also throw away a significant amount of plastic daily — and of the plastic I didn’t throw away, most of it was single-use disposable plastic that I will throw away, such as shampoo bottles. Over the course of seven days, I threw away nine plastic bags, three plastic bottles, three disposable coffee cups (which are lined with plastic) and their lids and 10 single-serve creamer containers for my coffee. I, however, throw away less garbage than the national average, which is 4.4 pounds per person per day. One of the biggest problems with how much single-use plastic we dispose of is the fact that plastic does not decompose. Yet, plastic exploits the earth’s valuable resources. For example, Americans used 102 billion plastic bags in 2009 alone according to the United States International Trade Commission. Those bags used about 12 million barrels of oil to produce. Plastic bags, bottles, and other packaging is sometimes used for only minutes before it is thrown away — a stark contrast to the amount of time it takes the earth to produce oil. Even when plastic is properly disposed of, it still fills up our landfills, pollutes our gutters and much of it ends up in the ocean. Plastic then breaks down into small, non-biodegradable bits. In
one heavily polluted part of the ocean (called the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, created by currents in the North Pacific Gyre of the Pacific Ocean, is estimated to be twice the size of Texas), the plastic bits are 40 times more concentrated than that of plankton. Fish, birds and other marine life then mistake those bits for food. Midway Island, located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, is known to be a cemetery of sorts for Laysan Albatrosses. Researchers who have visited the island have found countless dead Albatrosses with decayed bodies decayed, but the contents of their stomachs (which include bottle caps, lip balm containers, pen caps and pieces of plastic bags among other contents) have not. Plastic isn’t going away any time soon, which means its effects aren’t either. Reducing how much you consume may make a huge impact on your health and the health of the environment, and luckily, there are easy ways to do so. First, single-use plastic bags from grocery or convenience stores are 100 percent unnecessary and can be replaced by reusable bags or backpacks. Second, making a conscious effort to go at least one day per week without consuming food or drink from plastic containers will help cut down both how much garbage you throw away and potentially harmful chemicals entering your system. Third, replacing plastic Tupperware with glass, disposable utensils with metal, single-use water bottles with reuseable, body wash and hand soap with bar soap and bringing your own produce bags to the grocery store can all significantly decrease the amount of plastic used.
heather.manes@pepperdine.edu
Just be your selfless CRAIG KNEPLEY STAFF WRITER
Ah, spring. Love is in the air. Specifically, two kinds of love are in the air: self-love and the love for others. What’s that, you say? Self-love is a bad thing? Goodness, you’re right! In that case, we’d better take pains to ensure that everyone on campus knows how selfish they are and how selfless we are. But how in the world are we going to do that? Well, after much contemplation, I think I’ve found a solution. Step one is to do a little bit of introspection and make sure you’re actually one of the selfless few. Don’t worry, it should only take a second or two. Simply take stock of both your recent and planned activities and see if any of them could be construed as altruistic. Seriously, it could be anything. You went to UM last week? Bam, selfless. You’re thinking about participating in a service project overseas? Super selfless. Hell, you could have put a Bible verse in your Facebook status three days ago and you’d be fine. Trust me, as long as you can think of something that makes you obviously better than other people, you’re in the clear. Great. Now that we’ve got that down, let’s move on to step two. Step two is even easier than step one — just look around and see if you can notice any-
thing about other people that makes them selfish. No really, anything. Did they opt out of church on Sunday to write a paper instead? Selfish. Did they tacitly endorse the ungodly slaughter of innocent creatures by ordering a hamburger in the cafeteria? Definitely selfish. Do they just look a little selfish to you, even if you don’t know anything else about them? Selfish through and through. See? It’s easy! Awesome. Now that we’ve completed steps one and two, we’ve almost grabbed the prize. Don’t get too comfortable though, because step three is the most important. It’s not enough to know that God loves you more than the person next to you — that person needs to know this, too. Of course, telling them to their face would be rude (not that it would matter — their defensiveness would only show how their own petty self-interest has corrupted their minds beyond the hope of rescue). But for the sake of social politeness, let’s investigate our other options. One way you can go is to use every social networking site at your disposal to announce your kinship with the likes of Mahatma Gandhi and Mother Teresa. Another is to simply wait until a friend of yours makes a typically selfish comment (like, for example, “My depression has kept me from eating for days”), and then immediately jump in by stating your intentions to end world hunger by visiting Uganda for two weeks, or by remind-
ing them that their problems are “like, so totally ‘first-world.’” Of course, it’s possible that both we and the selfish many are only trying to cover-up for our secret knowledge that neither of us is actually willing to take Jesus’ example of lifelong poverty and self-denial seriously. But I don’t like thinking about that, so it can’t be true. And with that unpalatable issue safely under our belts, the only other reasonable alternative becomes perfectly clear and self-evidently true: sacrificial do-gooders like you and me are just plain worth more than normal people. If skeptics need any more evidence of this, just check Facebook; our status updates will confirm it. Why, just last week I posted a status update letting everyone know that I plan to donate both of my kidneys to an orphanage in West Africa. Oh, and afterward I’m going to bring my dialysis machine to Latin America with me, where I’ll be teaching poor Brazilian children how to read and write in English. Feel guilty yet? You should. If you were like me, you’d forgo your Western consumerist technologies in order to help save the planet. Unless you’re already uber selfless, that is — in which case, using your $1,200 Macbook Pro to log onto Facebook and tell everyone how saintly you are is totally OK.
craig.knepley@pepperdine.edu
B5
PHOTO COURTESY OF HOUSTON COSTA
Strike a pose: Women of Color will be hosting their second annual fashion show on Saturday, March 24 at the Waves Cafe. Tickets are 10 dollars and all proceeds will go to the Make a Wish Foundation.
Fashion shows raises funds for Make-A-Wish By PAIGE WESLASKI STAFF WRITER
Looking to mingle with celebrities, socialites, and renowned journalists? Pepperdine’s Women of Color, WOC, club is hosting its second annual fashion show this Saturday night in the Waves Cafe. The event opens its doors at 6:00 p.m. for guests to peruse the merchandise, shop around, and get settled. The runway fashion show, which is the highlight of the night, will run from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The theme for this years show is ‘Wish Upon a Star.’ The primary purpose of the show is to raise awareness for the WOC club and promote the idea that all women are women of color, and internally have no differences.The show celebrates womanhood through fashion by embracing the differences of women everywhere. Funds raised by the ticket sales, which only cost $10 for students, go directly to the Los Angeles Make-A-Wish foundation which helps children suffering from different illnesses. Last year, the event raised over $1,500 for the foundation, as well as raising $1,000 for Autism Speaks. Two hundred guests attended last year’s event prompting the club to expect 300 guests this year. The 2011 event was meant to be a onetime engagement, but the club believed the outcome was so great that the group decided to make it an annual event. Last years theme was ‘Diamonds are a Girls Best Friend,’ which complimented the symbol of Women of Color, a diamond. The event resulted in rave reviews by the press, as well. This years invited press includes the LA Times, LA Weekly, Genlux Magazine, Angeleno Magazine, Extra, WWD and Apparel News. Last years event included entertainment by Pepperdine students and Camille Winbush from ABC’s “The Secret Life of an American Teenager.” When asked about this years performers,
Kayla Brown, a member of the WOC, said “we’re still finalizing our performance list, but we have confirmed that the famous drummer Sheila E will be in attendance, and she will be drumming the music for one of the designers. Also, Pepperdine student Jamie Grant will be performing.” Brown also mentioned that the group had been planning the event since midsummer. “It takes a long time to plan such a grand event,” she added. Michele Weaver, a co-founder of Women of Color and this year’s service chair, said “Tara Akinwande and Christina Kenney, who are the President and Vice President, did most of the planning for the fashion show.” Weaver shared that Ariel Tinsley, a FIDM student from downtown Los Angeles, was a big help to the Pepperdine WOC with the planning details. “She helped coordinate the show by contacting the designers and planning auditions for models,” Weaver says. Auditions for the fashion show were held in early February in downtown Los Angeles, and the models who tried out were all professionals. Each designer went to the auditions and hand selected who they wanted to model their clothes in the show, personalizing their collection for the show. This years featured designers include Aji by Amazinda Christine, Crave Girl, Emigee Couture, Merci Belle, Roni Burks, Sacred Hearts, and Shanna Gall. The Women of Color group meet on campus once a month. The club is open to all women on campus, and they are currently looking to add more diversity. The WOC club is hoping that the event will give them a bigger name on campus. Besides the fashion show, the group does a plethora of activities, such as attending athletic games, having organized slumber parties, and meeting to discuss issues. The WOC ‘Wish Upon A Star’ Fashion Show event will exude Hollywood glamour. Tickets are on sale in the Waves Cafe.
paige.weslaski@pepperdine.edu
LIFE & ARTS
B6 Graphic
March 22, 2012
Rogue Wave
By BEN HOLCOMB STAFF WRITER
It’s not about you The unfortunate debacle concerning Invisible Children and Jason Russell has brought forth a pressing topic within our culture today. This incident, complex and real, was vomited across the interweb with such rapidity that I can’t confirm Russell was even in the squad car before one of the attending officers tweeted, “LOL #irony.” We have an unnerving tendency to spin everything through the prism of our own significance. What would otherwise be seen as a tragedy has instead manifested itself as a microcosm to a bigger issue in our generation. The same people goofing on Russell seconds after his detainment were the ones broadcasting their concern for African children days earlier. With the growth of social networks and their role in our daily lives, we’ve never been more brazenly egocentric than we are today. Don’t misjudge this as a soapbox; it’s hardly even a bar of soap. I have a twitter (@Benjaminholcomb); love it, some may even say borderline-obsessed. But we live in a world today that has given everyone a platform, and the problem is most of us don’t deserve it. Everyone’s constantly updating about the dumbest things; how his or her pizza was “da bomb” or how “brutal” studying is. I’m here to say nobody cares. And that’s the slimy truth nobody wants to hear: the little annoying bug that crawls on your skin at night when you close your eyes, the one you hope will cease to exist if you ignore it for long enough. It’s the reminder that in this cosmic swirl called life, you’re just a repeating letter in a giant bowl of alphabet soup. The Kony video, for all its positive intentions and effects in seven days, portrayed the tragedies of Joseph Kony and the Lord’s Resistance Army — through the eyes of a white American. At one point in the film, Russell’s 5-year-old son says he wants to grow up and fight bad guys just like his dad. The onslaught of changed profile pictures and updated statuses that followed across the web worked as indicators of our own perceived placement into the epicenter of an event thousands of miles away. Too many of us got lost in our own reflection reverberating off a mirror that was supposed to shine light on those suffering children. It’s not the most popular thing to say, but it’s true. Like a goiter hanging off the excess flesh of a sagging neckline, sometimes its best to just ignore something’s existence. Altruism is an endangered commodity in this world today — more endangered than beluga whales. “Pictures or it didn’t happen” has become the mantra of our lives. We don’t just do Step Forward Day, we have a 1000 photo album two hours later; a trip to Africa spawns a Kodak moment with an adorable orphan and a new profile pic, along with a “changed perspective.” Alas — what’s the point of doing good if no one knows it happened? It’s not about you. In fact — it’s never been about you. It’s about those poor kids with the mangled faces, lost limbs and dead relatives. It’s about every person in this world who is less fortunate than you (which means most- check your backdrop right now if you disagree). The Bible says “… whoever exults himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” Next time you back up a line at a food kitchen because you’re too busy statusing about how you’re “blessed” and saint-like, know that none of us care. And I mean that with the utmost sincerity. Do something for someone because it’s the right thing to do, not because it’d make a cool wallpaper photo on Facebook. There’s so much hurt in the world today, and we’re the ones who have the ability to fix at least some of it. But we need to step outside ourselves and start thinking as members of a global community. Because even though you are just another letter in a bowl of alphabet soup, when those letters join together they can spell out some pretty amazing things, like — I don’t know — compassion.
william.holcomb@pepperdine.edu
COURTESY OF COLUMBIA PICTURES
Unlikely Partners: Schmidt (Jonah Hill) and Jenko (Channing Tatum) make an unusually entertaining duo as they return to high school as undercover cops.
‘Jump Street’ reimagines Hollywood stereotypes “21 Jump Street”
By JOHN HAYS STAFF WRITER
The “buddy cop” movies have been a staple in cinema for about as long as cinema has been around. What you get is two seemingly unrelated characters forced to work together, despite their differences, for the greater good. While these characters usually never get along at first, by the end they will inevitably form a bond for each other they never would have expected. We have seen this formula work beautifully in films such as 1969’s “True Grit,” between John Wayne and Glenn Campbell and the 1987 cop drama “Lethal Weapon,” between Mel Gibson’s psychotic cop character and Danny Glover’s
Overview Release Date March 16
Starring
Jonah Hill, Channing Tatum, Brie Larson
Directors
Phil Lord and Chris Miller
Runtime
1 hr. 49 min.
reserved family man. Although, more recently we have seen this formula for success fail miserably in films like 2010’s “Cop Out.” Well, now we have a new buddy cop film that not only is a success but also delivers a funny fresh approach to the genre. “21 Jump Street,” the film adaptation of the 80’s Johnny Depp television series, tells the story of a popular high school student (Channing Tatum) and the overweight loser (Jonah Hill) who find themselves in the police academy at the same time. As fate would have it, the two are partnered together and sent undercover into a high school in order to investigate the spread of a new drug circulating the campus. The first thing this film does is specifically and obviously point out every stereotype being utilized in the film. While I don’t think this approach to filmmaking would be able to survive more than a few films, “21 Jump Street” took advantage of this gimmick while they could, and it paid off in the end. This film is not afraid to make fun of itself as much as it can. From the lack of new ideas in Hollywood to the trademark car chase scenes, “Jump Street” presents all of these in a way that says “yeah we are doing this … isn’t it funny!?”
Rated: R
Columbia Pictures They even use the evolution of what it meant to be cool in high school in the 80s as compared to what it means to be cool now. This evolution of coolness creates a great obstacle for our main characters who now have to relearn how to survive in high school. At first glance this film seems like another cheap remake comedy with a couple of A-listers thrown in at the last minute, however, “21 Jump Street” definitely delivers what it promises. It is hard to put a finger on one aspect of this film that made it good, but that really goes to show that it takes a great group effort to be a success. All of the elements fit together perfectly and never overpower each other. What made the writing so good was how self-aware it was. As an audience member it was very apparent that these writers knew that in order to win their audience over they needed to be funny but also connect with them on a more personal and societal understanding. By pointing out the change in what it means to be cool or making fun of recirculation of ideas in Hollywood, it tells the audience, “we are on the same level as you,” thus the viewers are more likely to buy into the film. The acting in the film wasn’t
spectacular, but it didn’t need to be. All the characters delivered exactly what the film asked of them. While Jonah Hill was definitely one of the main comedy contributors, his reserved character never stole the scene or made it into the “Jonah Show.” As much as I personally can’t stand Tatum, I will have to say some of the biggest laughs of the film are attributed to Tatum’s crazy and unexpected physical comedy. While it was obvious Tatum was somewhat new to the whole comedy thing, his reliance on the writing and his co-star made his performance perfect for this film. It is hard to deny, even just looking at them, that these two actors are perfectly cast in these roles with each other. The directors Phil Lord and Chris Miller were able to take this potentially flimsy plot and create an interesting and somewhat intricate story that never loses its audience or creates ambiguous moments. As a cop story, “Jump Street” also keeps all of the action you would hope to see in these kinds of films while not becoming too cheesy to withstand. “21 Jump Street,” gets a thumbs up.
john.hays@pepperdine.edu
‘Port of Morrow’ The Shins By HANNA HOUGLUM STAFF WRITER
After five years of silence, American indie-rock band The Shins released their newest record, “Port of Morrow” on March 20, 2012. This five-part surf rock band, originally from Albuquerque, New Mexico, formed back in 1997 and has released four full-length albums to date. “Port of Morrow” is the first Shins album not released by Sub Pop Records. Rather, this LP was released on lead singer and guitarist James Mercer’s new record label Aural Apothecary, via Columbia Records. Fitting in perfectly with the recent EDM craze, The Shins explore more electronic instrumentation on this new album. These calculated beats are paired with a cleaner and more professional sounding version of The Shins, showing off their grown and more polished selves compared to their previous releases. Though The Shins take the plunge into the mainstream electronic sounds, the quintet still keeps their melodic indie-rockpop sounds present. The new musical sounds paired with Mercer’s uniquely recognizable voice enhance The Shins’ sound.
With 10 songs on the album, in addition to two bonus tracks, “Port of Morrow” expresses lyrics about love and both the ugly and beautiful meshed together. Opening with “The Rifle’s Spiral,” the albums kicks off into a spiraling melody brought together with manufactured sounds, percussion and hoppy vocals. As the song progresses and the listener’s feet tapping commences, The Shins capture the auditor into a memorable beat and Mercer’s nostalgic voice brings feelings of pleasure and curiosity for what is to come on the record. Perfectly progressing into the albums’ single “Simple Song,” The Shins remind fans “I know that things can get really rough/ When you go it alone/ Don’t go thinking you gotta be tough/ And play like a stone.” With the percussion sounding similar to a motivational chant put together with simple piano finger plucking, this uplifting track keeps audiences plugged into the album from the start. The pace slows down as “It’s Only Life” begins to play and diverse instrumentation comes in sounding straight out of the 60’s. These perfected sounds are overpowered with Mercer’s comforting voice bringing listeners back to the “Phantom Limb” days.
Columbia Records As the songs continue to flow with ease into one another, the album brings in lyrics about childhood nostalgia and the meaning of life while somehow remaining seemingly more positive than The Shins’ previous three albums. It is very apparent by the developed sounds that the band members behind this LP have shifted including bringing in Modest Mouse drummer Joe Plummer, former Crystal Skulls bas guitarist Yuuki Matthews, guitarist Jessica Dobson and singer-songwriter Richard Swift. With fresh musicians come the revived sounds of “Port of Morrow” paired with Mercer’s vocals makes this album an improved version of the beloved Shins. Mercer’s side project with producer Danger Mouse, Broken Bells, also shines through especially with the indie-space rock melodies that take The Shins to the next level in their sounds. This 40-minute album was produced to please both long-time fans and new listeners alike. With the same front man and a fresh new band, The Shins have professionalized their sound and focused each of their individual talents and meshed them into “Port of Morrow.”
hanna.houglum@pepperdine.edu
COURTESY OF THE SHINS
Key Facts Band Members
James Mercer, Yuuki Matthews, Jessica Dobson, Joe Plummer, Richard Switt
Genres
Alternative rock, indie rock, folk rock, rock
Label Columbia Records
Website
www.theshins.com
On Tour? Yes
s o
LIFE & ARTS
March 22, 2012
Graphic
B7
Spring forward spring forward
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DOWN 2 Anaheim baseball 3 Johnny’s, Cupertino’s 4 “Incredible” daughter, Illinois’ 6 Between 2B, 3B 9 Fruit phone 10 St. Louis baseball 11 Boots, Waterloo victor 13 Thorned, variously named 15 Baltimore baseball 16 Equal light, dark 18 Spring water brand 19 Floridian capital 21 On mound 27 Spring soap brand 28 Czech spring 29 Ravishing red fruit 30 In box 31 “Flowery Land” 32 Lee’s novel’s bird 34 Islamic, vernal color 37 Chocolate seed 39 DC blossoms 41 Go wild, evidently 45 Syrian spring
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See the pepperdine-graphic.com/life-arts for solutions to this week’s puzzle. DOWN
ACROSS
14 LA baseball 2 Anaheim baseball 26 Pollinating mammals 17 Pollinating insects 28 For muffins, heroin 3 Johnny�??s, Cupertino�??s ??Incredible�?� daughter, Illinois�??s 20 Tatooine nation64 Between 33 Gaddafi’s nation 2B, 3B 9 Fruit phone 22 Oakland baseball 35 Toronto baseball 10 St. Louis baseball 23 “Spring” composer 36 Cocaine plant 11 Boots, Waterloo victor 24 Tulip nation 13 Thorned, variously named 38 Georgia’s, Mario’s 15 Baltimore baseball 25 Behind plate 16 Equal light, dark 40 Pollinating birds
ACROSS SF baseball
1 5 California�??s, breakfast�??s 7 Showers month 1 SF baseball 8 Batman�??s, Michigan�??s 12 Midwest storm breakfast’s 5 California’s, 14 LA baseball 7 Showersinsects month 17 Pollinating 20 Tatooine nation 8 Batman’s, Michigan’s 22 Oakland baseball 12 Midwestcomposer storm 23 ??Spring�?� 24 Tulip nation 25 Behind plate 26 Pollinating mammals 28 For muffins, heroin 33 Gaddafi�??s nation 35 Toronto baseball 36 Cocaine plant 38 Georgia�??s, Mario�??s 40 Pollinating birds 42 Fleur-de-lis nation 43 SD baseball 44 Christians�??, Candy makers�?? 46 Fava, Garbanzo 47 Flowers month
ARIES: Call your social security number+1 for the answer. TAURUS: Responsibility is for squares. GEMINI: You must choose — funk or punk? CANCER: Throw your socks in with Capricorn’s. LEO: Toy trains are a good investment. VIRGO: Put Gemini in charge of your PR. LIBRA: Aries has good advice. SCORPIO: Trolls lurk under staircases too. SAGITTARIUS: Let Leo manage your wealth.
47
18 Spring water brand 19 Floridian capital 21 On mound 27 Spring soap brand 28 Czech spring 29 Ravishing red fruit 30 In box 31 ??Flowery Land�? 32 Lee�??s novel�??s bird 34 Islamic, vernal color 37 Chocolate seed 39 DC blossoms 41 Go wild, evidently 45 Syrian spring
42 Fleur-de-lis nation 43 SD baseball 44 Christians’, Candy makers’ 46 Fava, Garbanzo 47 Flowers month
CAPRICORN: Your next load of laundry will burn. AQUARIUS: You can count on Taurus to get it done. PISCES: Think about your dad.
>>
g n i k par job of the week
Bad
Calendar Thursday, March 22 The Ting Tings 8 p.m. (Concert – El Rey Theatre)
This driver must have been in a hurry to not feel the right back side of the car floating above the air. Next time you’re walking down the road and see an awful parking job, take a photo and send it to us at graphic@pepperdine.edu.
Friday, March 23
Literary Los Angeles Road Guide 7 p.m. (Echo Park Time Travel Mart)
Saturday, March 24
L.A. Film + Music Weekend 6 p.m. (Downtown Independent Theater)
Sunday, March 25 Vitalic 8 p.m.
(Concert – El Rey Theatre)
Monday, March 26
Shoah 8 p.m. (Film – Billy Wilder Theatre)
Tuesday, March 27
Big Sean 7 p.m. (Concert – Nokia Club Theater)
Wednesday, March 28 Ken Parker 9 p.m. (Concert – The Echoplex)
MEDIA >>
SOCIAL
2
highlight OF THE
WEEK
SCOTT LAWRENCE / PGM PRESIDENT
A student at Florida Atlantic University reacted violently when a professor couldn’t answer her when she asked, “How does evolution play a role in the killing of all black people?” Authorities were called and she was eventually tazed and taken under custody.
B8
SPORTS
Graphic
March 22, 2012
B
Kass: Leading to the top MEAGAN MCCARTY / PHOTO EDITOR
MEAGAN MCCARTY / PHOTO EDITOR
By NARINE ADAMOVA SPORTS EDITOR
Athletics have always been a big part of senior Garrett Kass’s busy life. He is a double major in Sports Medicine and Mathematics. In addition, he leads the Pepperdine Rugby team to victories as the president of the team. More impressively, Kass did not start playing rugby until his junior year at Pepperdine. He was able to quickly gain the necessary skills to become the President. According to Kass, the main reason why he loves rugby is that “you get to run around with your friends, you get to tackle people.” “It is a fun game, that includes a lot of strategy,” Kass said. “It is a lot more
packed than football because it doesn’t stop. You play for 40 minutes in one half and then another 40 minutes. There are no downs. It is a game on a go.” Kass recalls that sports have always come natural to him. “I was always the athletic one and my brother was more into the creative stuff,” Kass said. “Sports have always been my thing.” Kass’s athletic background consists primarily of baseball, the sport that he played for 15 years. He says his gym friends sparked his passion for rugby when they once “asked him to try out.” What happened next was that Kass listened to his friends and “fell in love with the game.” The rugby club conducts elections at the end of every year in which they pick
the leader of the group. Kass’s personal qualities, hard work and physical abilities were enough to get him nominated as one of the candidates, and eventually elected. Even though it requires an extra time commitment, Kass says he likes the added responsibility. “I enjoy running the club and organizing everything together,” Kass said. This season hasn’t exactly been picture perfect, but Kass hasn’t given up on his team. “Our season has been very rough,” Kass said. “We are not doing as well as we were in the past, primarily because of the injuries and some set backs. Last year we finished top eighth in the nation. Hopefully we are going to get our stuff together and get back to the position where we were before.”
Standing tall: Dedicated senior Garrett Kass leaves big shoes to fill for next season. After the season Kass looks to build a successful career in biomedical engineering while looking to continue playing sports.
The team was knocked out of this year’s playoffs. As a result, they are determined to begin training themselves in hopes of better future performances. “We are planning on staying healthy, picking a few wins and enjoying the rest of the [post] season,” Kass said. Kass’s drive and dedication runs in the family as he mentioned his father as his greatest inspiration. “[My father] didn’t have much when he was growing up and he managed to get where he is today,” Kass said. “His hard work is what inspires me the most.” Kass has high aspirations for his future and is determined to get into graduate school for biomedical engineering. Then he plans to become a professional in the field. He also hopes to maintain his athletic career.
“I will definitely be involved in sports, but I am not sure about rugby,” Kass said. “It depends on my physical form, and where I go to grad school, but I am planning on playing it on the side of my studies.” With a packed schedule and an even busier future ahead of him, Kass explains why he places such high expectations on himself: “I have been so blessed with what I have been given in life. It inspires me not to waste it. I believe that the more you have been given, the more you are expected to be. I feel like a lot has been expected of me since I have been given so much.”
narine.adamova@pepperdine.edu
U
I have had so many incredible experiences unique to Pepperdine, not the least of which has been my time at the staggeringly beautiful Malibu campus. None of the opportunities I have had at Pepperdine—my time studying abroad in Florence, the educational field trip I took to Israel, or my countless experiences with the Pepperdine Ambassadors Council— would have been possible without the generosity of Pepperdine’s donors and alumni. I have benefited in so many ways through their benevolence, and I can’t wait to be a part of that giving community myself.
Matthew J. Flynn (Class of 2012) Art History Major Seaver College
change lives. give today. www.pepperdine.edu/campaign
Malibu • West Los Angeles • Encino • Irvine • Silicon Valley • Westlake Village • Washington, D.C. Heidelberg • London • Florence • Buenos Aires • Lausanne • Shanghai Campaign_GraphicAd.indd 2
3/14/12 2:45 PM
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SPORTS
March 22, 2012
Baseball dominates teams
CALL ‘EM AS WE SEE ‘EM Thoughts, reflections and predictions from our staff on the world of sports.
Carlos Tevez’s fans can be happy — their favorite soccer player is back from a six-month exile. Moreover, he managed to immediately revive Manchester City’s Premier League title hopes. After his arguments with his manager Roberto Mancini, nobody expected him to be back. Impressive, taking into consideration that not every athlete would put principles over team’s success.
NARINE ADAMOVA
RACHEL MILLER / PHOTO ASSISTANT
Strong Wave: Freshman pitcher Steve Casey helps lead the Waves to another victory against Long Beach State on Monday March 19.
By DEANJILO PLATT- FRIDAY SPORTS ASSISTANT
The Pepperdine baseball team is setting new season highs as they continue their successful season. Recent games have been a result of strong wins. The Waves (16-5) were able to get a 12-2 midweek victory over Long Beach State and have won eight of their past nine games. The Waves were led by a strong performance from sophomore pitcher Matt Maurer, who in six innings was able to prevent the Long Beach State offense from scoring. Maurer limited the Dirtbags to a mere four hits. The pitching continued with help from the bullpen. Relievers Mat Snider, Steve Casey and Alex Najera were able to limit the offense of the Dirtbags who brought a late push in the ninth inning which resulted in only two runs. Pepperdine’s offense was clicking on all cylinders in their largest offensive scoring output this season. The Waves were able to pile up 12 runs on 14 hits. This had five batters who played a multi-hitter game and four hitters batting at least two runs each. The first run of the game was not put on the board until the bottom of the third inning by the Waves, but once they got things started they were hard to cool off. The Waves went on to produce six runs in the third inning and did not ever trail the rest of the game. As junior pitcher Jon Moscott admits, “getting wins like that really helps us build some momentum and gives everyone an opportunity to play.” The Waves have been able to build strong momentum since their disappointing outing against No.14 ranked Louisville on
March 3 and March 4, in which they dropped two of three games in the series. The Waves, since then have swept teams like Rhode Island and have also won their midweek matches against Columbia and UC Irvine in the Dodgertown Classic. The Waves during this stretch have seen three complete game performances from the pitchers (Moscott-2 & Frazier-1) and some impressive performances from other players. Guys like redshirt senior Floyd Givens who has been recovering from injury during his 2010 season has received consistent playtime this season as the Waves designated hitter. As of late, Givens has caught fire and has earned five hits on eight at-bats in games he started since the Louisville series. Givens attributes “getting more of a chance” on the field as being the spark for his recent success. The team has remained dedicated even on potential days off. The rain that postponed the Waves on Saturday matchup against Kent State, allowed players like freshman outfielder Aaron Brown “to get better and get locked in mentally.” Brown has displayed this focus, leading the team the last four games with eight hits and five RBI. The Waves’ will to win will be tested again at their weekend three-game series against the No.13 Texas A&M Aggies. This will be the Waves first game against a ranked opponent since their series against the Louisville Cardinals. After this series, the Waves will go on a nine game road trip starting in Santa Barbara Tuesday, March 27 they will then start conference play on Mar. 30 against the Gonzaga Bulldogs.
By ALYSHA TSUJI
ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR
COURTESY OF NCAA.COM
Moving on: The NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball tournament moves on to the Elite 8 today.
mori picks relying only on the few games he watches each year. For this year, at least, his tactics have worked. “My brackets are generally doing okay,” Oyadomori said. “Nothing is too bad or too good. One year it blew up in my face.” On the other hand, there are more strategic “bracket fillers,” such as Ueki, who studies the game and conducts some intense research prior to penciling in his selections. “I usually research by looking at trends from past NCAA tournaments regarding the win percentages between the different seeds that play each other,” Ueki said. “For example, the No. 1 seeds are 1080 against the No. 16 seeds, and only 11 times have the No. 1 seeds won by single digits, with the last time being in 1997.” Ueki also does additional, simpler examination, as he explains: “I also look at each team’s stats, especially toward the end of the year to see if a team has a lot of momentum going into the tournament. For example, when I saw North Carolina shut down a young Duke team, I didn’t see Duke go-
ing very far, and I saw that North Carolina could go pretty deep. I have North Carolina winning the whole thing.” To a casual fan, it can seem like a lot of research for predictions that could be blindly guessed. In fact, Ueki’s brackets haven’t exactly reflected the amount of research he did beforehand, yet there is still hope for him to redeem himself. “Let’s just say that my upset picks didn’t pan out the way I thought they would,” Ueki said. “However, the two teams I got going to the championship game, Louisville and North Carolina, are still in it so my bracket isn’t completely done yet.” The teams left in the tournament represent strong programs. Ueki’s picks of Louisville and North Carolina are ranked No. 4 and No. 1 respectively. Potential Cinderella teams — though they probably aren’t ranked low enough to earn that title — are No. 13 Ohio, No. 11 North Carolina State and No. 10 Xavier. The Big Dance concludes at 9 p.m. on April 2 in New Orleans.
alysha.tsuji@pepperdine.edu
Q&A: insight on sports successes and life lessons From B10
AS: Mental toughness and work ethic. If you’re tough mentally, you can overcome anything and in sports there is so much adversity, so many outside distractions that come in. You have to stay strong. It is not just physical to me; it is way more mental. If you have those two things you can succeed in any sport.
In 2008, Delle Donne turned down a chance to play women’s basketball for the UConn Huskies who went on to win national titles in 2009 and 2010. Instead, she chose to represent her hometown Delaware Blue Hens. She made the decision to stay close to her older sister who has cerebral palsy. Flash forward to 2012, and she has led the Blue Hens to a 31-1 season while averaging 27.9 points. In an article by ABC News, Donne says her sister is her inspiration, but I think that Donne can be an inspiration to us all.
ALYSHA TSUJI
This is a dedication to my hometown teams the Washington Redskins and Washington Wizards. The Wizards and Redskins have both made trades to build toward their future. The Redskins’ trade with the Rams can eventually bring them Heisman winner RG3 and the Wizards decision to eliminate two headaches for a veteran stud and the opportunity for them to add good young talent in this upcoming draft gives much needed optimism to a sports fan who has never seen a championship run from his team.
DEANJILO PLATT-FRIDAY
ASK A WAVE
Who is your pick to win March Madness?
deanjilo.platt-friday@pepperdine.edu
Underdogs bust brackets The Waves may not have made it to the Big Dance (aka the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament) this year, but the WCC conference did have three other teams represented: St. Mary’s, BYU and Gonzaga. But all three of them dropped out within three rounds — not a great confidence booster for any team in the WCC, Pepperdine included. However, aside from the unfortunate 14 ranked team domination of No. 3 Marquette over No. 14 BYU, and No. 2 Ohio State over No. 7 Gonzaga, upsets have been the name of the game this year. This includes No. 10 Purdue’s three-point victory over No. 7 St. Mary’s. In total, 10 teams were upset within the second round of games. The only division to escape the unpredictability was East Boston, though No. 6 Cincinnati did muster up a win over No. 3 Florida State in round three. Every win counts. Not only to the schools playing, but also to the fans who have drawn up brackets in an attempt to guess the winner. It’s become a large game across the nation as groups of people download phone apps and keep a close eye on ESPN to stay updated on the scores. “I’ve been filling out brackets for the past five years,” sophomore Jeremy Ueki said. “I’m playing with a group of people from [my hometown] Hawaii, and people from my work as well. It’s a lot more fun when you play with friends.” Another student, senior Reyn Oyadomori, says he has also taken part in the March Madness tradition for about five years. He has participated with friends and the Pepperdine Math Department. Although some pick teams based off gut feelings, favorite schools or historically famous programs, Oyado-
B9
Graphic
G: Now that the team is ranked No. 8 and you’re progressing deeper into the season, what would you say the outlook is for the off-season right now? AS: We are playing much better. I haven’t been this excited about our team in a long time. We are playing with a lot of confidence. Our primary goal is to win the national championship this year. That’s more so than ever right now.
graphic@pepperdine.edu
“North Carolina.”
“Kentucky.”
“Ohio State.”
MATT WEST FRESHMAN MEN’S VOLLEYBALL
LYNN WILLIAMS FRESHMAN SOCCER
MICHAEL SWANNER SOPHOMORE BASEBALL
“Baylor.”
“Kansas.”
“Kentucky.”
JAMES GRANDPRE FRESHMAN BASEBALL
NIALA CHARLES FRESHMAN TRACK
JOSH TAYLOR FRESHMAN MEN’S VOLLEYBALL
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California State University, Long Beach College of Continuing and Professional Education Lorinda Owens 5.292 in. x 6 in. Pepperdine University Pub Date: 3/22
B10
SPORTS
March 22, 2012
»pepperdine-graphic.com/sports
Waves display strength in sand
DBS Report
By NARINE ADAMOVA SPORTS EDITOR
The Waves Sand Volleyball team continued the successful beginning of the season by winning against Long Beach yesterday. Pepperdine, represented by five duos, won the USC Tournament at the Annenberg Community Beach House in difficult weather conditions this past weekend. “We had a fantastic weekend. We won the team event, which was most important,” Head Coach Nina Matthies said. “We were tremendous in the pair’s competition also. It was hailing, 40 mph wind with rain, it was a crazy weekend but we played really well. It was a good giveaway to start the weekend. It was unbelievable” The Waves managed to win three of the five flights and earned the programs’ first-ever team title Saturday, the first day of the tournament. All five pairs showed outstanding performance by defeating challenging opponents from USC, Florida State University and Long Beach State University. In the first flight, a duo of Waves junior Caitlin Racich and freshman Summer Ross took over Caitlin Ledoux and Tara Roenicke of Long Beach losing in just the first set (19-21, 21-16, 15-11). Another win followed this victory, this time over Jese Pardon and Jekaterina Stepanova of Florida State University, when pair was leading with significant advantage in both sets (21-16, 21-14). No. 1 Waves team, Racich and Ross steped into Sunday’s
DE
SPORTS ASSISTANT
COURTESY OF RON HALL
single elimination pair’s championship with a perfect 6-0 record. Junior Victoria Adelhelm and Sophomore Kellie Woolever stayed strong against their opponents from Long Beach State and Florida State by winning in all three games in the third flight. Sophomore Kelley Larsen and senior Stevi Robinson lost in two sets but won in the last one against USC’s Bateman and Hirschmann. On Sunday, the team managed to win three out of five flights in a very undesirable conditions. According to Matthies, weather conditions could not stand in the way of the team’s victory. “We play in the rain and in the wind when we practice on the beach every day, so we are used to this environment. We are not going inside when it is a bad weather, because
narine.adamova@pepperdine.edu
Men’s Tennis Coach MEAGAN MCCARTY / PHOTO EDITOR
Interview conducted by NARINE ADAMOVA SPORTS EDITOR
& ALYSHA TSUJI ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR
Graphic: How did you start your tennis career? Adam Steinberg: My older brother was playing the sport. He started when he was 14 and you always want to copy what your older brother does. He was a pretty good player, and I saw him playing competitively. I wanted to do that too and fell in love with the sport, and 37 years later I am still in it. I still love it as much as I did when I was 8 years old. G: How did you get into coaching? AS: Playing at Penn State was a true joy for me. Playing college tennis for four years was amazing and that’s what brought me to coaching. G: What has your experience been like coach-
ing Pepperdine men’s tennis for 10 years now? AS: It’s been an honor and the greatest experience in my life professionally. I have coached at other schools, but I love Pepperdine. Honestly, coaching tennis here is so special with the tradition and everything that goes along with it. Hopefully, I will never take it for granted. I just love every day coming here. G: Are there any lessons you’ve learned while coaching the men’s tennis team? AS: I have learned a million lessons [laughing]. The most important thing you learn at Pepperdine is what’s most important in life. Winning is not the most important thing. There are too many to mention, but this is the biggest one. I have also learned how to prioritize my life differently and it has been a great life lesson for me. G: What was the most exciting event for you in your Waves career? AS: In 2006, winning the National Championship. That’s definitely our highest level. This
COURTESY OF RON HALL
season has been really special to me in a lot of ways also, because we went through a lot last year, through a lot of adversity. This year has been definitely up there, but honestly the biggest highlight was winning it all in 2006. G: What did it take to win that 2006 National Championship? AS: Playing as a team. We were not the most talented, but we were the best team regarding the true meaning of that word, that’s why we won. Guys came together and played for each other and not just for themselves and every guy on the team did that. That’s what I can point out as a reason why we won the championship that year. G: Why do you think it worked out that year, and when do you think the team will be ready to have another run at it? AS: We are ready now. We had a tough start and we have a tough schedule, but the guys are really getting on the same page and I feel great about our team. I am not saying we are the best team, but hopefully by May we improve even more and I think we have as good a chance as anyone. G: What is the most important thing you want your players taking away from your program when they graduate? AS: To learn to give to others and not just think about themselves, that’s what Pepperdine tennis is all about. The way we play, the way we practice, the way we handle ourselves on and of the court is all about giving to each other and thinking about others first. Hopefully they will take it with them to the rest of their lives, with their families, friends and whoever they become associated with. G: In your opinion, which quality is the most important for an athlete to become successful?
»See Q&A, B9
SCOREBOARD Kent State Long Beach State
Date
March 19 March 20
Menʼs Tennis vs.
Nebraska Washington
Date
March 20 March 21
Score
W, 6-4 W, 12-2
Score
W, 7-0 W, 7-0
Menʼs Volleyball at
UC Santa Barbara UCLA
Date
March 14 March 16
Score
W, 3-0 L, 3-0
Record: 15-5 16-5
Record: 10-6 11-6
Record: 11-9 11-10
A few weeks ago, Lionel Messi was unanimously considered the best soccer player on the planet and one of the best of all time. Since then, the young Argentine wizard has been in the form of his life (which, by his own incredibly high standards is unimaginable). He is now in a league of his own and the argument as to who is better between Cristiano Ronaldo or Messi is now history as ancient as Julius Caesar’s reign. He recently scored four goals in 5-1 home win for Barcelona against Valencia. He scored three in a 3-1 win for Argentina in a recent friendly against Switzerland. In a difficult away game at Atletico Madrid, Messi scored a magical free kick unlike any I’ve ever seen. The way he curved the ball into the top right corner from a difficult angle was superhuman. In a recent Champions League game, Barcelona played Bayer Leverkusen. The Catalan giants won the game 7-1 and Messi scored five wonderful goals, setting a new record in UEFA Champions League history. Just a few days later, he scored two goals in 2-0 win against Racing Santander. Each time the Argentine wizard steps onto a soccer pitch, he manages to do more and more incredible things with a soccer ball, surpassing (if that is possible) what he previously achieved. Not only does he virtually score at will, his dribbling, passing and link up play is enchanting. His brilliance transcends mere words. Messi’s origins are truly inspirational. Born into a poor family in the Santa Fe Province of Argentina, Messi’s father was a steel worker and his mother a part-time cleaner. As a child, Messi lived and breathed soccer. According to an interview with the Guardian, he would always play in the house and break household items, which would anger his mother. He was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency at the age of 11. Barcelona agreed to pay for his medical bills only if he would move to Spain to enroll in their youth academy. Soon after, Messi and his father were on a flight to Spain. Little did Messi’s father know that his son would one day be one of the greatest soccer players in history and a truly honorable role model. Lionel Messi shot up through the Barcelona youth ranks and soon became the youngest player in Barcelona’s history to score a league goal. If Leo Messi keeps improving the way he has been doing, he will no doubt be the game’s greatest player ever. The Argentine legend also does his best off the pitch. His philanthropy is inspiring. In 2007, he established the Leo Messi Foundation, a charity that supports education and health care for vulnerable children across the world. Messi is also a goodwill ambassador for UNICEF. The look on his face when he scored Barcelona’s second goal in the 2011 Champions League Final against Manchester United tells a tale of a man who tries 100 percent every time he steps on a pitch. His contributions to the world will certainly never be forgotten.
when something like that happen during the game, you are sort of prepared. We have spent a lot of time practicing fundamentals; the kids are very strong mentally and physically, so that’s how you prepare to the bad weather,” she said. The weekend tournament helped the team in preparing for the game against Long Beach yesterday. The team effectively applied their past experience and successfuly won its first ever dual match (3-2). Especially successful was the pair Kelley Larsen and Stevi Robinson who defeated Libby Fontanilla and Alma Serna of LBSU (21-10, 21-10). The team is looking forward future challenges as they play against Alabama-Birmingham, Mercer and the College of Charleston, SC, this weekend.
Adam Steinberg
vs.
Lionel Messi’s brilliance transcends mere words
Digging defense: Senior Lilla Frederick, paired with Senior Kim Hill, showed an outstanding performance with a win over LBSU yesterday (25-23, 21-16).
Q&A with
Baseball
ANDY BURGH SIDLEY
andrew.deburghsidley@pepperdine.edu
NEXT UP ... Friday, March 23
Saturday, March 24
Alabama-Brimingham at 8 a.m.
7 p.m.
Baseball vs. Texas A&M at 3 p.m. Womenʼs Sand Volleyball vs.
Womenʼs Tennis at Fresno State at noon Menʼs Volleyball vs. George Mason at
Womenʼs Sand Volleyball vs.
Track
Menʼs Golf
Sunday, March 25
North Florida at 1 p.m.
at Barona Collegiate Cup (All Day)
Saturday, March 24
Baseball vs. Texas A&M at 1 p.m. Womenʼs Sand Volleyball College of Charleston at 10:30 a.m.
at UC Invitational (All Day)
Baseball vs. Texas A&M at 1 p.m. Womenʼs Sand Volleyball vs. Mercer at 8 a.m.
at