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Men’s Soccer Falls in Quarterfinals
A Christmas Concert in Laurie, Vespers and Christmas on Oakmont kick off the holidays.
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The Death of Nelson Mandela 1918-2013
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The Holiday Spirit Takes Hold of Trinity
Volume 111, Issue 14
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Serving Trinity University Since 1902
Women’s Soccer Competes in Final Four
Naomi Wolf discusses state of U.S. liberties Social critic, activist and author, Wolf argues for adherence to U.S. Constitution by Sonam James NEWS REPORTER
courtesy of Miguel Webber Junior and midfielder Kelsey Falcone (9) moves past a player from Wheaton (Ill.) on Nov. 23. In the match, the Tigers finished victorius with a 2-1 win over No. 4 Wheaton. Trinity (24-0-2) will play No. 13 Middlebury in the Final Four, today, at San Antonio’s Toyota Field.
• December 06, 2013
Naomi Wolf noted author and activist, spoke as a part of the Trinity University Maverick Lecture Series on Nov. 19. She presented a lecture entitled “Public Liberty, Private Liberty: When the State Tries to Get into Your Private Business.” Wolf is the noted author of “The Beauty Myth”, “Give Me Liberty: A Handbook for American Revolutionaries”, and many other books. Her lecture revolved around the topics she covered in her books, including the future of America and its increasing restrictions on civil rights and liberties. Wolf spoke about America slowly turning into a closed society. “It is so important to remember that there are civil societies like Spain and more recently like Britain who have experienced terrible ongoing
terrorist attacks decade after decade. They don’t respond by giving away their civil liberties and they don’t say ‘Lets close down the reason we are Britain, the reason we are Spain.’ In fact, they amplify their transparency,” Wolf said. Wolf started off her lecture stating that governments slowly begin to close society off by taking away civil rights and liberties via heightening security threats. According to Wolf, governments will use threats like these to justify legislation, that restricts personal freedoms. “The easy thing about freedom is that you don’t feel it - you have it. It’s when you start to lose it. It’s when people have to become aware of what it feels like to be free,” Wolf said. Wolf’s allegations about the U.S. government slowly becoming a surveillance state have been controversial. “I do not think anything was too controversial. There were obviously some things that I was taken aback on and really didn’t know what to think about it,” said Nikita Viswasam, a junior.
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Lecturer David Gordon weighs research versus teaching Gordon advocates keeping research balanced with traditional teacher instruction
by Luke Wise NEWS INTERN Visiting professor Daniel Gordon of the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, recently gave a lecture regarding the issue of teaching and research and how a professor should approach the issue. Exploring the historical conception of today’s tension between the two practices, Gordon analyzed the current standards and how important it is for teachers to find a balance. Gordon began by explaining how the modern construction of research formed, stating that the division between it and
teaching did not form until after World War I. “Until the late 19th century, there was no tension between research and teaching: research served the purpose of teaching,” Gordon said. The division came later in time, with the practices of teaching and research developing into distinct areas that would later fuel the debate. “Teaching and research were closely intertwined,” Gordon said. “Following World War I, the conceptual meaning of research began to change as something done for the benefit of society, something good that is so powerful that it can be justified against teaching.” This new distinction raised the question that Gordon addressed later in his lecture: should professors be more devoted to teaching or research? To many professors, including Gordon, this is seen as an issue not
only of time management, but as an ethical issue as well. “We generally see this as an issue in time management. How can we make enough time for teaching and research?” Gordon said. “However, in contrast to the conceptual difference between the two, there is a moral aspect between balancing teaching and research. It is really a competition for our hearts and minds”. With merit from both sides, the issue is hard to settle. In many universities, research can come to dominate teaching, a fact that Gordon finds unsettling. “Research should be kept consistent with teaching at all universities,” Gordon said. “There can be a little bit of inequality so long as one does not come to dominate the other.” At Trinity, the concept of research versus teaching is an issue acknowledged
photo by Jennie Ran Gordon discusses the historial conecption between teaching and research in Northrup 040.
by professors and students alike. To many faculty, like assistant professor of political science, Keesha Middlemass, research and
teaching are both significant and must be balanced so that they further one another.
see GORDON Page 3
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News
theTrinitonian DEC. 06. 2013
compiled by Cassandra Watson
LOCAL
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The city council voted unanimously on Thursday to approve H-E-B’s $100 million plan to expand its downtown campus and open a new store there. The plan also includes shutting down their S. Main Ave. location permanently, which many local residents resisted. Several new offices and mixed-use developments will be constructed along S. Flores St. Mayor Julio Castro cites the projected addition of 1600 jobs to the San Antonio as the reason for his support.
One-day labor walkouts were planned in 100 cities across the U.S. on Thursday, and several more cities and towns than expected participated. Organizers and labor advocates are pressing for a higher national minimum wage, pay of $15 an hour to fast food workers, and the right for fast food workers to unionize without harassment. Current minimum wage is $7.25, or an annual income of $15,000 for full-time work. The protests have been met with considerable pushback.
Nelson Mandela, former president of South Africa, leader against apartheid and recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, died Dec. 5 in Johannesburg, South Africa. He was South Africa’s first black president. After spending three months in a hospital, Mandela received intensive medical care in his home. Addressing South Africa on national television, current president Jacob Zuma said that flags will fly at half mast and that Mandela will receive a full state funeral.
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usatoday.com
bbc.co.uk
graphic by Caroline Jakubowski
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Index 1 News 6 Opinion
12 Campus Pulse 18 Arts&Entertainment 22 Sports
Staff
editor: Rachel Puckett managing editor: Lydia Duncombe business manager: Gaby Serrano ad director: Paige Lanford creative director: Katherine Kroll news editor: Carlos Anchondo campus pulse editor: Kenneth Caruthers arts & entertainment editor: Megan Hageney
sports editor: Aly Mithani photo editor: Anh-Viet Dinh web editor: John Mendiola graphic editor: Caroline Jakubowski reporters: Sonam James, Aynav Leibowitz,
Rose Minutaglio, Meagan Oglesby, Chloe Pope-Levinson, Kailiegh Phillips, Maddie Smith,
Mason Walker, John Mendiola, Ben Conway, Julie Robinson, Elif Yucel
columnists: Allison Smith, Lauren
Schroeter, Abby Miracle cartoonists: Sarah Fulton copy editors: Brooke Griffis, Jennifer Miller, Evan Snow photographers: Aidan Kirksey, Megan McLoughlin, Jennie Ran, Matthew Brink distribution manager: Caroline Jakubowski advertising executives: Krista Campolo, Ali Campion, Allison O’Hanlon, Rodrigo Gallegos Anda, Hayley Malone creative staff: Kristy Hamilton, Kristin Erin Ashley business assistants: Ben Dart, Elly Yeo adviser: Katharine Martin
photo by Anh-Viet Dinh
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Candles inside of bags Santa’s little helpers Used to build houses Striped sweet Reindeer with red nose The parasitic plant used to pucker up The name of our favorite snowman Baby Jesus once lied in this
Creamy holiday beverage Christian season of anticipation Tchaikovsky’s famous ballet Annual TU holiday service Treat left for reindeer Deck the halls with boughs of... Visit houses here for a treat Number of wise men
compiled by Carlos Anchondo, made using puzzle-maker.com
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News
theTrinitonian DEC. 06. 2013
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CCI convenes focus group Wolf warns against government spying Idea of co-curricular transcript proposed and student presence at lectures is discussed by Sonam James NEWS REPORTER Trinity has been conducting focus groups in order to gauge students’ opinions about topics including student presence at campus lectures and the concept of a co-curricular transcript. The focus groups were done over two days and involved 12 students. Participants in the focus group were asked why they did or did not go to lectures and whether they thought a cocurricular transcript would be useful. “The focus groups served as a way to seek ideas, suggestions, and feedback from students,” said Jamie Thompson, director of campus and community involvement and facilitator of the focus groups. A co-curricular transcript would document all of the extracurricular activities students have done at Trinity with official verification. “So just like we have an academic transcript with all
the classes we took and credits that may have transferred from high school or from other universities, we could also have a transcript that documents all of the clubs and organizations that we were members of and what we contributed to those clubs and organizations,” said Bria Woods, sophomore and focus group participant. In the focus groups, the administrator asked if students would use a co-curricular transcript and whether they thought it would be useful on a résumé. “They were just kind of feeling if people thought it would be useful, if it would be worth introducing,” said Emily Blount, a junior and focus group participant. “I think especially for your average Trinity student that is really heavily involved, it would be really nice to be able to show that to your employers as well,” Woods said. According to the data collected by the focus group, students thought it would demonstrate the holistic experience students have on campus. One weakness students identified was that employers might not care to see it.
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Gordon urges an even balance • continued from Page 1 “I am a more effective teacher because of the research I do,” Middlemass said. “By engaging in the literature and material of our area and by wrestling with our own ideas, we can incorporate that into the classroom and better our actual teaching.” Likewise, the practice of teaching often furthers research. To assistant professor of history Kenneth Loiselle, both teaching and research can build on one another. “Teaching classes, in, say, in the French Enlightenment or the French Revolution, it forces me to think about my own research in a broader sense. Why does this matter, how is my research changing the conventional ideas?” Loiselle said. “In that way research and teaching are complimentary to one another.” Research can also further a student’s academic experience. “One real benefit of Trinity is the research that professors do that incorporates students into it,” Middlemass said. “With smaller classes, it is easier to incorporate our students into our projects, which then gives them a leg up in graduate school and provides a good context and analysis of the real world.” To students, as well, the opportunity to work alongside professors is an important one. Sophomore and history major Matt Favaro said that both practices lend themselves to various uses, with the
inclusionary research offered at Trinity as an important product. “I think being exposed to research is enormously beneficial to students, as it pushes us harder and exposes us to the field of study in a new way,” Favaro said. While research helps to involve and engage students intellectually, the concept of teaching is equally important. To many students, a balance of the two should be sought in order to reap the benefits of both. However, students recognize that professors should focus on their strengths as well. “Performing research keeps professors at the top of their game and keeps evolving their ideas, which is extremely helpful for students,” Favaro said. “Balancing the two is crucial to be a good teacher, but it’s important to accept that teachers should do what they are best at overall.” Unlike many other larger institutions, Trinity’s unique composition allows for highquality research blended with an emphasis on teaching to better the students’ experience overall. “Trinity is one of the best places to conduct research. Since our teaching responsibilities are more robust, there is less research from a quantified point of view, which lends to higherquality work,” Loiselle said. “I think teaching and research really do go hand in hand, as being a great researcher enables you to teach and help students better.”
• continued from Page 1 Throughout the lecture Wolf spoke about the importance of the Constitution and how legislation like the Patriot Act is a violation of the U.S. Constitution. “Our founders had such a beautiful, perfect vision. What our founders created is constitutional rights. They are not perfect, the document is not perfect, but the seed of the vision they had is perfect because it grows and grows,” Wolf said. Wolf went on further to state that the militarization of the domestic police force is another step toward a closed society. “More and more you are getting the militarization of police forces. These millions and millions of dollars of the department of homeland security money is coming like tanks into domestic police forces,” Wolf said. Towards the end of Wolf’s presentation she spoke about the imminent and current danger of the growing presence of surveillance in the U.S. with the NSA. “The reason why people in closed societies love surveillance is that it gives them a tool for blackmail and do not
photo by Jennie Ran Wolf spoke about U.S. freedom, demilitarization, government surveillance and more.
think this is not happening in the United States of America,” Wolf said. “To know that the thing that I normally didn’t think about could be thinking about me all the time is quite strange,” said Eloise Warren, a sophomore. According to Wolf, the NSA spying programs have extreme political ramifications. “The first people who get surveilled with the surveillance apparatus is the congress people and leaders,” Wolf said. “Everybody’s secrets are now in the hands of the NSA on the hill,” Wolf said. The fear of losing basic rights and liberties encompassed the conclusion of Wolf’s speech.
“The scariest thing is losing your freedom, the government becoming your stalker, your survileire, your master, taking away your right to your lawyer, taking away your right to your privacy, taking away your right to the constitution. That is scarier than any terrorist,” Wolf said. Viswasam states that the lecture was very informative and eyeopening. “I felt after the lecture that I had a better sense of the importance of the issue and the urgency of the issue regarding surveillance,” Viswasam said.
4 News Trinity’s Doctor Who Society celebrates program’s 50th theTrinitonian DEC.06. 2013
TARDIS and all, DWS members congregate to commemorate Day of the Doctor by James Godfrey NEWS INTERN The popular British Broadcasting Channel program Doctor Who celebrated its 50th anniversary two weekends ago on Nov. 23, setting the record for the largest international multicast ever run, and celebrating the show’s anniversary with millions of fans worldwide. Trinity’s Doctor Who Society, who meet weekly, held a special showing of the episode to celebrate the event themselves. “Everyone was really excited for the 50th anniversary episode, and the fans have been discussing it and who might be in it for several years now,” co-president of the DWS Kelli Hallmark said. Rumors about the 50th anniversary episode had been circulating for several years before its announcement, with much speculation as to
what the writers would do for the momentous occasion. Because of the nature of the show, which follows the story of a time-traveling alien named simply Doctor Who, the opportunity to bring past incarnations of the Doctor from its 50-year history caused much excitement. The show originally began in 1963, with a hiatus between 1989 and 1996. It began in earnest in 2005 under the watch of Russell Davies. Since then, the show has followed the reign of the ninth, tenth, and eleventh Doctors, with the twelfth Doctor joining the show next year. In the 50th anniversary broadcast, every prior Doctor is represented either by their actors returning to the show to play parts, or through digital manipulation. This came as a surprise to many fans of the show, as up until that point the cast and crew of the show had put forth the idea that they would focus predominantly on the modern “reboot” cast. “It was really exciting and surprising seeing the eighth and fourth Doctors in the episode,” DWS secretary David Herman said. The 50th anniversary was true to the original broadcasts’ date and was
photo by Anh-Viet Dinh Members of Trinity’s Doctor Who Society watch the 50th anniversary episode, “Day of the Doctor,” in Northrup 040. The Doctor embark on their greatest adventure when “something terrible” awakens in London’s National Gallery.
displayed on Nov. 23 all over the world through the use of a simultaneous broadcast on screens across the globe. This simultaneous broadcast led to the show being noted by the Guinness Book of World Records as having broadcast the largest simulcast in the world to date. Because the show aired in many countries, there was much to be done with regards to redubbing
and translating the show for its respective broadcast languages, and the broadcast was a very complex, organized feat. The widespread impact of the anniversary around the world was cause for much celebration and a review of the shows’ history – having nearly been let go by BBC many times in its earlier incarnations due to funding cuts. The widely viewed episode was
a testament to the support of fans and dedication to the show around the world. “The big show change was that the futuristic episodes became very popular,” Hallmark said. “Doctor Who had always been written for the purpose of educating children, but now it has become far more complicated.”
see BBC Page 5
theTrinitonian DEC. 06. 2013
News Desired goal of more advertising • continued from Page 3 “The feeling I got is that it would be a useful tool for Trinity to have just within itself - maybe not to give to employers or put it on your résumé, just something for students to catalogue all that they have done over college,” Blount said. According to Thompson, the institution is interested in engaging students to attend campus lectures. “They were asking us why students may not be attending. On one hand we were thinking about the advertising,” Woods said. The data the focus groups collected based on students’ responses suggested that there was a lack of advertising for events. Students were mainly motivated to go if they got extra credit for a class. Also, one reason students did not attend lectures was that the lectures are typically political or political science-based. “We were trying to brainstorm different ways that we could get the word to more people that different speakers are coming to campus,” Woods said. Focus groups discussed different ways to advertise the lectures to reach more students and encourage attendance. “A good portion of the people there went to the lectures and really liked them, so it was just more focused on maybe how to advertise them better,” Blount said.
Greek life elects new officers, now in shadow period by Carlos Anchondo NEWS EDITOR On Monday, Nov. 25, the Greek Council elected a new set of officers for the next calendar year. Leading Greek life will be Men’s Co-Chair John Pederson and Women’s Co-Chair Sarah Gambell. Pederson, a member of Omega Phi, said he ran for Co-Chair because he feels he has shown commitment to improving Greek life at Trinity in the past. “I could not be happier about being elected,” said Pederson, “I value my participation in Greek life and I am excited that I get to play a hand in ensuring that future Trinity students have access to the same life enriching opportunities that can come from being a life-long member of a fraternity or sorority.” Gambell, a member of Chi Beta Epsilon, said that previous experience on Greek Council as Women’s Recruitment and Orientation Chair influenced her decision to run for Co-Chair. “I found a greater appreciation of all of the Greek organizations on campus, and became devoted to unifying them and serving as a medium between them and administration,” Gambell said. Also elected was Kimberly Siu as Women’s Recruitment and Orientation Chair, Xavier Vargas Hall as Men’s Recruitment and Orientation Chair, Ernest Alumanah as Treasurer, Vivian Ha as Judicial Chair, Angeline
BBC’s Doctor Who turns 50 • continued from Page 4 The Doctor Who Society on campus held a showing of “The Day of the Doctor” on Nov. 24 which included, of course, the showing of the episode as well as Doctor Who-themed snacks and discussion of the show. The meeting drew around 40 fans to watch the episode in the lecture room in the basement of Northrup, and was a meeting of much excitement – fans considered what Doctors might appear, as well as what would happen next, as the Twelfth Doctor following this past representation of the Eleventh Doctor by Matt Smith has already been announced. After the broadcast was over, the club members gathered to discuss not only the episode they had just viewed, but also its nods to past events in the series and affect on what might happen in the future. “Originally, Doctor Who had pockets of interest from the BBC,” Hallmark said. “It has really come a long way with regards to viewers and the focus it receives from the network.” Following the broadcast, which is called the Day of the Doctor, the response of critics and fans varied. While it has largely been received as well-loved, the writing
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of the episode has brought about consideration for how its storyline affects the history of the prior several Doctors, particularly those post-2005. As Doctor Who commonly alters time and history, this shift is not impossible, it simply brought about more questions and scenarios for fans to consider in the future. The Twelfth Doctor played by Peter Capaldi, who was briefly represented in the Day of the Doctor episode, will begin his role this month during the Christmas special. The Day of the Doctor was a huge commercial success with regards to its viewership and the set up of the broadcast and fans around the world enjoyed the inclusion of not only the modern Doctors, but also earlier incarnations. The Doctor Who Society will continue holding meetings next semester on Sunday nights at 8 p.m. in Northrup 040. For anyone interested in meeting with the club beforehand, they gather outside of Mabee Dining Hall at 7 p.m. to have dinner together before continuing on to the viewing. “We are building from the ground up and doing things on the fly,” Hallmark said. “Anyone is welcome to join us, we have a lot of fun!”
Bottera as Service Chair, Jonathan Box as Standards and Scholastic Chair, Zach Motz as Risk Management and Jenny Epperson as Secretary. Candidates were given two minutes to address the voting audience and a person speaking on their behalf was given one minute. The voting body was composed of the president and a Greek Council representative from each fraternity and sorority and each member of the Greek Council, excluding the current Co-Chairs. Every fraternity and sorority is represented on the Greek Council except for Chi Delta Tau, Phi Delta Kappa, Iota Chi Rho and SPURS. Delts, PDK and IChi did not have candidates run for any position on the council. No fraternity or sorority has more than one member on the council. During candidate speeches, common themes included Greeks leading by example, membership in Greek life being a defining experience, making difficult and occasionally unpopular decisions, collaborating with administration and establishing relations with the overall Trinity community. Pederson said he would like to see Greek organizations become a more recognizable and positive influence on campus. “When it comes down to it, the only people that know what positive work their organizations are doing are
the members themselves,” Pederson said. “I want to work on cleaning up the Greek image at Trinity until it is viewed in the positive light that it deserves.” Gambell said that she wants non-Greek students to know more about the community
service projects Greeks are involved in and that the Greek GPA average is consistently higher than the campus average. All officers are currently in a shadow period and will completely take over duties after Bid Day on Jan. 31.
20
Christmas
Concert
Trinity University’s 20th Annual Christmas Concert FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6 7:30 pm, Laurie Auditorium Featuring the combined talents of nearly 200 of the University’s singers and instrumentalists FREE and open to the public Seating is on a first come, first seated basis
Keeping your sanity
Columnist Allison Smith reminds us once finals are over, the holidays are here to enjoy. Page 7
EDITORIAL
Opinion
theTrinitonian DEC.06.2013
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The culture of surveillance
As of about midnight Thursday, this editorial was going to be a sort of advice and support column revolving around the struggles we make during this last week of class and the devastating hurricane of finals week. While we still want to offer all of you the utmost support and encouragement and we recommend checking out our annual holiday guide on pages 8-11 during one of your study breaks, we feel that, given the events of Thursday, this editorial should perhaps move in a different direction. Yesterday afternoon (8:30 p.m. in Johannesburg, South Africa), Nelson Mandela passed away in his home following a lengthy battle with various health ailments. For those of you who might need a crash course in why this is such a big deal, we raise our eyebrows at you, but we will help you out. Mandela was an integral part of the fight to end apartheid in South Africa. His efforts landed him in prison for 27 years. Less than five years after his release from Robben Island, Mandela earned a Nobel Peace Prize and was elected president of South Africa. He was the nation’s first black president. Now, usually these editorials strive to link massive historical and cultural events to the happenings on our own campus, but this week we think it would perhaps be okay to let this event stand alone. Nelson Mandela is and will forever be an international icon in the fight against inequality. His speeches, writings and general life work are applicable not only to the fight against racial inequality but also against injustice in any form it may take. As the world continues spinning, even in the wake of his death, we urge you to consider and reflect upon the impact Mandela made. Our lives are so much more than our triumphs. The whole thing is a series of hills and valleys, and the trick lies in appreciating the falls and the climbs in the same way we appreciate standing on the peaks. A significant portion of Mandela’s life was spent in a valley, and, instead of letting the darkness overshadow the rest of his life, he used his experiences to revitalize a nation and, eventually, to revitalize the world. Because the Trinitonian is a creature of habit, we cannot resist linking this important cultural moment to a current Trinity event. Today at 1:30 p.m. in Blossom Stadium, located on Jones Maltsberger Road, the women’s soccer team competes in the Final Four round of the NCAA Championship. This is the team’s first trip to the Final Four since 2002. Should they emerge victorious, it will be their first national title. Ever. Whether the weekend is a valley or a hill for the women’s soccer team, we plan to lend our support, and we strongly suggest that you do the same. Watch and cheer and remember the immortal words of Nelson Mandela (honestly, there are way too many to choose from), “Do not judge me by my successes, judge me by how many times I fell down and got back up again.”
Media With Medina Cynara Medina, Professor Last week, Elan Gale’s flight was delayed, and he was annoyed, not because of the delay, but because of Diane in 7A. According to Gale, Diane was abusive to the flight attendants, obnoxious and just plain spoiled. She deserved a lesson in manners, and Elan Gale, a reality television producer, decided to do what many would have done in his place. He live-tweeted his annoyance. Not only that, he scripted and produced a feud that went viral by exchanging notes with Diane. Soon enough, BuzzFeed’s Rachel Zarrell had picked up on it. She added a couple of sentences between Mr. Gale’s tweets and shaped them into a story. She chose the title, “This Epic NotePassing War On A Delayed Flight Won Thanksgiving,” and essentially praised Elan Gale. He, and he alone, had the guts to put Diane in her place. Except for the fact that none of it actually happened. Elan Gale made it up “to give people a few laughs over a slow Thanksgiving weekend.” Mr. Gale is a funny guy. He’s also a perfect example of the phenomenon of our highly connected era: surveillance. Every day we’re being watched, and not just by the
NSA. We’re being watched by strangers with smartphones. Some of them have no qualms about criticizing our behavior, overhearing and posting snippets of our conversations on Facebook or transforming our images into memes. As a result, the expectation of privacy is an endangered species. Any deed or word can be recorded, reported, posted, shared and re-shared. It can be framed as funny, shocking or heartwrenching. It can be transformed. It can take on a life of its own.
“What troubles me is the normalization of surveillance. It’s something we should now expect, and sometimes, we can even reward it.”
What troubles me is the normalization of surveillance. It’s something we should now expect, and, sometimes, we even reward it. Elan Gale, after all, picked up several thousand Twitter followers as a result of his “hilarious” tweets about a feud that never happened. However, many of us believed it did take place. It sounded plausible because we have tools that allow us to broadcast anything at almost any time.
In the best of circumstances, those tools have been used to shed light on terrible situations that affects people’s lives, such as natural disasters, uprisings, government crackdowns, police brutality and any number of abuses of authority. Yet the same tools are also utilized to pry, dissect and otherwise shame private individuals for their behavior — even in cases in which the behavior is nothing to be ashamed about. That’s how C.D. Hermelin, a.k.a. The Roving Typist, became a meme. Hermelin is a New York City-based writer who writes original stories for people on his Royal Safari portable typewriter. In exchange, people can pay him whatever they want. One day, a stranger photographed him at work. That person shared the image to Reddit, and notoriety followed. As Hermelin describes it, it was an eyeopening experience. He writes, “Yes, I know that I am pretty much always being watched (especially at a beautiful tourist attraction in New York City, doing something partly designed to attract attention) but that didn’t prepare for me for the reality of seeing myself taken out of context.” I’m not prepared to see myself taken out of context either. Big Brother is watching. So are countless Little Brothers. Cynara Medina is a professor in the communication department.
Holiday cheer: obnoxious, uncomfortable, overrated Staff Column
Lauren Schroeter, Columnist Sometimes I feel like I’m the only person who absolutely hates the holidays. Of course, being the only vocal nonbeliever in a family of absolute nuts, it’s not really hard to believe. But I still participate in the traditions and everything, like a good child should, and I hate it. First off, let me make this clear that when I say that I hate “the holidays,” I
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really mean Christmas in particular. I hate Christmas. That’s my opinion, and I am in no way saying that everyone should hold the same contempt for the holiday that I do. Why do I hate it? I don’t know! I just do. It’s horrible and vile and I dislike it, and if you call me a grinch or say “Bah humbug” to mock me I will punch you in the face and scream my hatred at the top of my lungs. You aren’t funny. You aren’t original. You’re just annoying. “Okay, really, it’s not that bad,” you say. Well, what about the near-constant bombardment of horrible in-season songs that hits you every time you walk into a store? What about all the horrible inflatable Santas
and snowmen that sit out on people’s yards? Those snowmen aren’t fooling anyone; it doesn’t even snow where I live! Whatever. It doesn’t matter.
“Okay. Maybe the real reason I hate the holidays is because my mother brings out this horrible clock that plays Christmas songs every hour.”
Okay. Maybe the real reason I hate the holidays is because my mother brings
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out this horrible clock that plays Christmas songs every hour. Its sound resonates through the whole house, so there is no escape from its horrible death call, no matter where you try to hide. It’s been about 14 years now that she’s had that clock, and not one year has she gone without it. At this point, the clock is so old that I can no longer even recognize some of the songs it plays, but it just keeps going and going, marking every hour that passes with warped versions of overly cheerful tunes. Eventually, the repeated songs just fade into the background as my mind adjusts to hearing them. Maybe you think I only hate this clock so far as I can
Story Suggestions: Story suggestions should be e-mailed to the Trinitonian two weeks prior to the event. Guest Columns: Guest columns should be arranged with Lydia Duncombe (lduncomb@trinity.edu) one week prior to publication. Columns submitted without such arrangements will not be accepted. Columns may not run if they exceed 500 words. Letters to the Editor: Letters to the editor should be concise (under 350 words), typed and submitted by 5 p.m. Tuesday prior to publication. Please indicate your name, year and major(s) or department. There is no guarantee that letters will run.
complain about it, maybe you think it’s one of those things that I love to hate, maybe you think that I don’t actually hate the clock, but only pretend to because it’s embarrassing. The truth is I actually do hate this clock, and my hatred goes much deeper than regular hate. I don’t just hate the clock, I hate what it represents. I hate this clock because it acts as if my willingness to waste time is something to celebrate. You see, it’s not just a clock; it’s a symbol! It’s a symbol of things and stuff. You know how it is.
Lauren Schroeter is a junior majoring in geology and religion.
Opinions expressed in The Trinitonian are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the opinions of Trinity University, its students, faculty, staff or The Trinitonian. Editorials represent the opinions of The Trinitonian Editorial Board. The first copy of The Trinitonian is free; additional copies are 50 cents each. ©2012. All rights reserved.
theTrinitonian
Opinion
DEC.06.2013
“What the $!@#. He isn’t real?!” Sarah Fulton Junior
Powering through finals sidewalk • sidewalk • sidewalk • sidewalk • sidewalk • sidewalk • sidewalk • sidewalk
How did you find out that Santa wasn’t real?
“My present was a bike and I caught my parents rolling it in.” Emma Lichtenberg First Year
“My cousin yelled it to me during an argument. I hate her.” Lizzy Celentano First year
“I slept under the Christmas tree and saw my aunt putting presents under it.” Julia Florek Junior
“Let’s just say my espionage skills came in handy at a young age.” Anna Van Buskirk Junior
“My dad pulled Santa’s beard off at the mall.” Brady Iba Junior
“The same time I found out the Tooth Fairy wasn’t real. “ Jacob Hall Junior
“Common sense.” Maddie Nguyen Sophomore
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compiled by Anh-Viet Dinh
Staff Column
Allison Smith , Columnist It’s that time of year. Thanksgiving has come and gone and at long last the Christmas season has arrived. But even with the long break mere inches away, there are many things to stress about during these last few weeks of school before the end of the semester. There are finals to take and research papers to turn in. Every hour seems like a strenuous chore— the endless study sessions, the constant stacking of textbooks to be returned, those unearthly hours you spend cramming and typing away on your computer at 3 a.m. in the darkness. For some students, it is hell on earth. Each student has their own individual response to the coming of the end of the semester, some more confident than others. First years always seem to
have it the worst. They’re still adjusting to the strain of college life and don’t always know what is the best possible work option to take in that brief period of reading days and paper revisions. Most of the seniors, on the other hand, are most likely snickering under their breath, unfazed and fearless for what’s to come. The sophomores and juniors are always somewhere in the very middle, concerned yet detached at the same time, languidly shrugging off the mention of finals while inwardly preparing themselves to dive into the depths of tension and toil over the course of the next few days. Yes, these final weeks always seem to draw some sort of reaction out of students. Many among them will stress out to the very end, losing sleep and eating very little, slowly turning into manic study-skeletons. What they forget is that the holidays are just around the corner. Yes, it is crucial that we all study and do as well as we possibly can on our finals, but it is also important to take a few hours off for some muchneeded mental relaxation. Christmas is almost here
and the time for families and good cooking and gift exchanging is soon to arrive. Worry about your grades, but don’t drain yourself to the point where you can barely function. If you’re too exhausted to think, then what is the point of all that hard work to begin with? Let your mind rest for a few hours and set aside some sections of the day to take a breather. Find a quiet spot and nap or read or listen to music. Have enough confidence in your abilities to know when it’s okay to pause the cramming for a few minutes. The last few weeks of the fall semester are always a challenge to get through. But always remember that your health and sanity matter above all else. There’s much to look forward to in the near future. Pardon my geek lingo, but in the words of the iconic Eddard Stark in the “Game of Thrones” series, winter is coming. In spite of all the studying and stress and hardship that’s soon to come, let’s all try to have some fun when we can find it. Allison Smith is a junior majoring in english.
Holiday guide Winter wonderland, dorm style theTrinitonian
8 DEC.06.2012
by Luke Wise Everyone loves holiday decorations, but with finals just around the corner, many of us struggle to find the time or lack the inspiration for sprucing up our dorms. However, all it takes is some creativity and a little bit of free time to get your room into the holiday mood. Here are seven festive suggestions to make your dorm the bestdecorated on campus: 1. It isn’t the holidays without some lights to hang up. Grab some cheap lights from Walmart or Home Depot and hang them up on your balcony or around the room. Tip: get yourself the solar-powered ones for outside—they are cheap and incredibly easy to use. Also, grab some red and green light bulbs and turn your boring lamp into a festive decoration. 2. Also, what would the holidays be without a tree? Go out and purchase a nice Christmas tree, or, if you are at the end of your budget, grab a cheap fern from a nearby nursery. Throw some tinsel and ornaments on that bad boy and you are all set. Charlie Brown would be proud. Not a devoted arborist? Bust out the Menorah or Kinara instead. 3. Got some cardboard boxes lying around? Grab some festive wrapping paper or make your own and showcase your superb present-wrapping skills. Once done,
place them under your new fern “tree” and pretend they are all the amazing presents you never got as a child. 4. Get yourself a great holiday playlist. Nothing puts you in the holiday mood better than Christmas music, and it really adds a nice touch to the overall ambience of the room. Turn up the music especially loud to cover up your neighbor’s crying over the horrors of finals week. 5. Speaking about ambience, an important part of the holidays are the wonderful smells. Sure, we can’t have candles in the dorms, but what about Febreze? Choose between the incredibly appealing “Glistening Pine,” “Winter Frost” or “Cranberry Cider” and go to town. It doesn’t get more festive than that. 6. Don’t forget the door, either. Cover the entire thing in wrapping paper like a present, put up some stockings, cut out some paper snowflakes or hang a nice wreath. Or, do all of the above—the more the merrier. 7. Finally, you can’t forget the classic mistletoe. Put it over your door and you can be sure no one will disturb your studying during reading days. Add some personal touches to your dorm and adornments, and before you know it, you’ve got the most festive room on campus. Have fun decorating!
A guide to roommate gifting
With Thanksgiving and our food comas behind us, and Christmas music now officially legal postTurkey Day, it’s time to start brainstorming gift ideas for your roommate(s). In true holiday spirit, I have compiled this guide to aid you on your gift-giving journey of joy.
The Best Friend Roommate:
Be thoughtful! Don’t rush. Think about their hobbies, their musical interests, what they like to read in their spare time (I’m told it exists). Find something that is tailored to their personality. For instance, do they have a favorite cologne or perfume that only has a few spritzes left? Personal products are a safe route. Want something more meaningful for your bestie? Look for an activity you can do together to create even more glorious memories. Do you both enjoy art? Take a painting class. Spurs fans? Tickets are a must. Get creative and make this gift unique.
The Roommate with No Boundaries:
This roommate does not realize there are two sides to every dorm room. “Mi casa es tu casa” is their favorite motto. Buy something of yours that they always borrow. Maybe it’s your basketball, your new skirt, your shampoo or toothpaste. Purchase a new, similar product and you’re set. No more worrying that you’ll run out of Herbal Essences mid-rinse.
The Non-Texan Roommate:
Look no farther than the closest H-E-B, Walmart or convenience store. All come completely stocked with tacky yet understandably proud Texas mugs, picture frames, blankets, t-shirts and maybe the random snow globe (the Alamo surrounded by red, white and blue glitter). They will be “home” for weeks, and odds are they’ll be stricken with homesickness (because Texas is their new home). A nice Lone Star State reminder will comfort them during those lonely weeks away.
The Roommate You Hate:
So this is the person you can’t wait to get rid of. You literally dream of the day you walk down to the Witt Center and erase them from your life. I understand. But, hey, it’s the holidays, and no one likes a Grinch. Odds are you’ve shared a meal at least once. Buy a gift card to their favorite off-campus restaurant. Maybe they will break bread with someone else and this time you’ll have the room to yourself. by Carlos Anchonado graphics by Caroline Jakubowski
Best Holiday Music Compiled by Alessa Hutter From classics to new features, here’s a list of Christmas songs that will have you rockin’ around the Christmas tree before Santa Claus comes to town:
“All I Want for Christmas is You”— Mariah Carey “Baby, It’s Cold Outside”—Dean Martin “Blue Christmas”—Elvis Presley “Chanukah Song”—Adam Sandler “Christmas [Baby Please Come Home]—Michael Bublé “Feliz Navidad”—Jose Feliciano “Hark the Herald Angels Sing!”— Frank Sinatra “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”—Ella Fitzgerald “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus”—Jackson 5 “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas”—Perry Como “Jingle Bell Rock”—Bobby Helms “Last Christmas”—Wham! “O Holy Night”—Céline Dion “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree”—Brenda Lee and Johnny Marks “Santa Baby”—Earth Kitt “Santa Claus is Coming to Town”— Bruce Springsteen “Sleigh Ride”—Ella Fitzgerald “The Christmas Song”—Nat King Cole “Where Are You Christmas?”—Faith Hill “White Christmas”—Bing Crosby You can find all of these and many more on Spotify’s “The Ultimate Holiday Playlist.”
graphic by Caroline Jakubowski
Holidayguide
theTrinitonian DEC.06.2012
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Holiday Recipes
Compiled by Jennifer Miler, graphics by Lydia Duncombe
Maybe it’s just the Texan in me, but I love me some hot peppers. Since not everyone in my family shares my enthusiasm, it’s very rare that anything “hot” shows up on our table, but it is my firm resolve this Christmas to make a snack worthy of both this season and this great state. When I saw this cheese ball recipe, my mouth began to water. Jalapeño peppers, bacon and cheese – what could be more perfect?
Bacon-Jalapeño Cheese Ball 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature 2 ounces Cheddar cheese, shredded (about ½ cup) 6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and chopped, divided 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped, divided 1 garlic clove, minced 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley 1 teaspoon lime juice ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce ¼ teaspoon ground cumin Pinch cayenne pepper ¼ cup chopped pecans, toasted In a medium bowl, stir together the cream cheese, Cheddar cheese, half of the bacon, half of the jalapeños, garlic, parsley, lime juice, Worcestershire sauce, ground cumin and cayenne pepper until well combined. On a large plate, stir together the remaining bacon, the remaining jalapeños and the toasted pecans until evenly combined. Shape the cream cheese mixture into a ball. Roll the ball in the pecan mixture until coated on all sides. Wrap the ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving. Serve with your favorite crackers. Leftovers should be wrapped tightly and can be refrigerated for up to three days. Source: browneyedbaker.com Just because we’re easing into winter doesn’t mean we should give up pumpkin. A few weeks ago, my boyfriend made these pumpkin ginger cupcakes with an Irish cream frosting, and they were completely to die for. I’m not much for cupcakes, or even cake, but these cupcakes fulfilled every dream I never knew I had. Make them for those nights of sitting around the fireplace, leave some out for Santa, or give them out to Christmas carolers for all I care; for heaven’s sake just MAKE THEM. Moist, spicy, and full of pumpkin goodness – welcome to heaven.
Pumpkin-Ginger Cupcakes 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 (3.4 ounce) package instant butterscotch pudding mix 2 teaspoons baking soda 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1/3 cup finely chopped crystallized ginger 1 cup butter, room temperature 1 cup white sugar 1 cup packed brown sugar 4 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree Preheat an oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease 24 muffin cups, or line with paper muffin liners. Whisk together the flour, pudding mix, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ground ginger, allspice, cloves, and crystallized ginger in a bowl; set aside. Beat the butter, white sugar and brown sugar with an electric mixer in a large bowl until light and fluffy. The mixture should be noticeably lighter in color. Add the room-temperature eggs one at a time, allowing each egg to blend into the butter mixture before adding the next. Beat in the vanilla and pumpkin puree with the last egg. Stir in the flour mixture, mixing until just incorporated. Pour the batter into the prepared muffin cups. Bake in the preheated oven until golden and the tops spring back when lightly pressed, about 20 minutes. Cool in the pans for 10 minutes before removing to cool completely on a wire rack. Source: Joshua Pedrick and allrecipes.com. And, because cupcakes aren’t muffins, they deserve frosting. This is one option, although I would recommend substituting Irish cream for milk, based on the delicious success of my boyfriend’s frosting. Butter Cream Frosting 1 cup butter, room temperature 3 cups confectioners’ sugar 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1 to 2 tablespoons milk or cream In a mixing bowl with electric mixer, combine the butter with confectioners’ sugar. Beat on low speed until sugar is moistened, then beat on medium to high speed for about 2 minutes. Add the vanilla and 1 tablespoon of milk or cream and beat until smooth. Beat in more milk or cream, as needed for spreading consistency. Source: southernfood.about.com The Christmas song “Here We Come A-caroling” is a contemporary rendition of the original carol in which is called, “Here We Come A-wassailing” If you don’t know what wassail is, this is the perfect time to find out. The easiest way to describe wassail is to call it hot apple cider, but there are countless ways to make it, including using wine (or, traditionally, ale) as the main ingredient. Here is one rendition of this classic Christmas beverage. Hot chocolate and eggnog, step aside.
Best Ever Hot Wassail 8 cups apple cider 2 cups orange juice 1/2 cup lemon juice 4 whole cinnamon sticks 12 whole cloves, or 1 teaspoon ground cloves 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg Combine all ingredients in a large pan. Bring to simmer over medium-low heat. Reduce heat and continue simmering for 45 minutes. Ladle into cups or mugs and enjoy. Source: yummyhealthyeasy.com
Holiday guide
DEC.06.2012 10 theTrinitonian
Are you familiar with the “white elephant” gift exchange? The premise is that you show up with one totally useless wacky gift that is typically under $10, draw numbers to see who goes first and then let them open a gift. As subsequent participants unwrap their gifts, they can steal away another’s newly acquired goods. A white elephant gift party is a fun and inexpensive way to celebrate the holidays, whether it’s with family, friends or co-workers. Do you have a white elephant party coming up, or perhaps you merely have friends with goofy senses of humor? Then let the gift-swapping begin! Let’s start with the gag gifts… 1) A framed and autographed photo… of yourself. Clearly, everyone will know who the present is from once it’s opened, but that is just the sacrifice you’ll have to make for this gag gift. The frame is the only thing that will cost you, and Walmart has a selection, some for under $3. Also, even though the gift is a joke, the recipient can use the frame for something else (or, who knows, maybe they’ll keep your picture). 2) Set of rechargeable batteries with the “toy not included.” Just like the picture frame above, this may be a gag gift, but a pack of rechargeable batteries is also useful. This gift can cost as little as about $10, it’s easy, and these batteries are energy efficient—they’re the gift that keeps on giving! Just buy a pack of “green batteries” and label it with a tag that says “toy not included.” 3) City dweller’s s’more kit. Here’s what you do: just box up some candles or tea lights, an old pronged fork, some marshmallows, chocolate bars and graham crackers. Voilà! You have a s’more kit perfect for any indoor dwelling—even the white elephant party! And now for the gift gifts… 1) A gift card. Gift cards are the perfect white elephant present, because there is always somebody who will love it. Keep in mind that with a $10 budget, a card to, say, Barnes & Noble isn’t going to do much good, but a card for a coffee shop, iTunes or some other business with inexpensive items will make a great gift. 2) Accessories, gadgets, toys—oh my! If you have never been to the site ThinkGeek.com, go to it now—even if you don’t have a white elephant party coming up! This site has gadgets and gizmos for anyone, many for under $10. Check it out. 3) Edible goodies. You really can’t go wrong with cookies, candies or chocolates. I mean, who doesn’t like something sweet—especially around the holidays? These are inexpensive to buy, but if you want to save even more money (and make the gift even more special!), you can make your own. Remember, the key is to wrap the gift nicely to make it look more extravagant than it really is. After all, the best part about exchanging gifts is the anticipation of what is inside. Happy gift-giving!
1. Photo coasters. For this gift, you will need 4x4 tiles (19 cents at Home Depot), felt mounting circles, photos that are 4x4, glue stick, popsicle stick, resin (make sure it dries clear—you can purchase this at Hobby Lobby with a 40-percent-off coupon) and a straw. First, glue the pictures to the tiles with glue stick. Second, seal the picture tiles with resin. It is very important to follow the instructions on the resin label to a tee. Spread out the resin with the popsicle stick. Be aware of any bubbles that may pop up within the first 15 minutes. Use a straw to blow out any troublesome bubbles. Third, wait. For approximately 72 hours, that is. Lastly, mount the felt circles onto the bottom of the tiles so that the coasters can slide easily without scratching any surfaces. Voilà! You now have the perfect homemade gift. 2. Personalized snow globe. You will need photo or transparency paper (make sure the size is half an inch smaller than the bottle’s width and height, a glass jar (spaghetti sauce jars work well), glitter and sequins, clear/light corn syrup, water and packaging tape. The first step is to prepare your photo (print a photo onto a transparency). Next, roll up your photo and put it into your jar. After this, you will fill over half the jar with water and the rest with the corn syrup. Add glitter and sequins. Lastly, tighten the lid on your jar AS MUCH AS YOU CAN. You don’t want any leakage. Shake snow globe and enjoy! 3. Chalkboard wine glasses. What you will need: Rust-Oleum Chalkboard Brush-On in black, wine glasses and chalk. If you are looking for an easy DIY, then this is the project for you. Simply dip the bottom of the wine glass into the chalkboard paint and wait for it to dry. This is super fun, and allows you to leave a personalized message on the bottom of the wine glass. You might consider decorating the top with some fun colors (puff paint and 3D paint stick well on glass).
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Giving cheap & Easy
The season of giving is upon us once again, and, if you are anything like me, then you have given yourself too many things. The old saying goes, “it is the thought that counts.” While this may be true, grabbing something from your dorm’s trash can does not count. Some effort, even on a tight budget, is necessary for the people we deem important enough to spend time, thought and affection on. Worry not; I am here to help you purchase cheap (in a good way) gifts that will hide how poorly you manage your finances from your friends and family. Gifts come in many different forms depending on who they are for. If the recipient is even inclined to something whimsical and fun—and definitely if they are a geek—then you should take a look at thinkgeek.com. Some of the items on this website can be on the expensive side of the spectrum (why does it cost $89.99 for a Jedi bath robe? and why don’t I have $89.99?), but they specifically have a section that is entirely filled with items under $10. At this point, I should stop writing and just paste a link to the website and call it a day. There are a lot of cool gifts, like a “Harry Potter” beanie and Superman-themed socks that have tiny capes at the top. A month may seem fleeting, but it can also be a very long time, especially during winter breaks after the novelty of being back at home with family and high school friends grows thin. I cannot think of a better companion than a subscription to Netflix or Hulu. There are literally thousands of hours of content on both of these streaming services. You can even watch said content on almost any device—even on a Nintendo 3DS! Making absolute statements is never a good thing, but I know that everyone will agree with me when I say that a person can never go wrong buying a book as a gift; the recipient will always be grateful and overjoyed. My witty, hilarious and ironic use of absolutes aside, a book is one of those gifts you can buy new for under $10, or even cheaper used at Half Price or somewhere similar. The choices are limitless. Pick one at random, look at awards or use your best judgment. If none of those gift ideas fits your designated giftee, then you could always make something with your own two hands. I understand that this may seem like the cop-out answer. I promise that this idea is not here and not last because I ran out of other legitimate ideas. Though I am also not saying that it is not on this list in some part because I ran out of ideas. That sentence was purposefully obfuscated to hide the truth within. I digress. One time, I received a piece of 8 ½ by 11 paper with some ink on the page. It was neither the most useful, the most expensive nor the coolest gift I have ever received. But it was the most meaningful one because of the person who gave it to me and what it represented. Make a comic for someone you care about or a popsicle doll or some sort of origami thing, or buy a mug and then paint it. You can even just write a note or give them a long hug. Go crazy. Just do something. Make sure you show the people that matter to you that, well, they matter to you.
Holiday guide
theTrinitonian DEC.06.2012
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Presents for parents by Julie Robinson
A gingerbread house how-to by Cassie Watson
Crafting your own gingerbread house from scratch can seem like a very simple and easy activity to undertake. It’s important to realize, however, that making a gingerbread house isn’t just an art project—it also requires a bit of architectural intuition. A shoddily built house can quickly become a pile of icing and graham crackers before it has the chance to be a gingerbread house. To get started, here is some stuff you’ll need: 1. Icing and graham crackers. Don’t go out and spend money on a prefabricated, build-your-own-gingerbread-house set. That’s for pansies. You don’t need it. A box of graham crackers and a standard container of cake icing will do just fine. The possibilities are infinite when you can use your own imagination. It’s more fun that way anyway. Plus, you can make more than one house! Maybe even a gingerbread village. If you want to get a little fancy, using an icing bag will give you a little more precision, but a butter knife will be plenty effective. 2. I’ve found that the best candies to use are M&Ms, Dots, Redhots and other small candies. Twizzlers (or red vines, if you prefer) are also good to use. Splitting them in half makes them go a little farther and actually fit on corners a little better. To avoid collapse, here are some helpful tips: 1. Start with a foundation. Don’t just start putting walls and a roof up without first using a graham cracker for the floor of your house. This will give you a place to anchor your walls and make it easier for the walls to stay in place while the icing dries between them. 2. Build the gingerbread house on a level and sturdy surface. A wobbly table (or jerky friends who shake the table in the midst of your building endeavor— sabotagers!) will likely cause your house to fall apart, especially in the earlier stages when the icing is still soft. 3. Icing is your friend. Use this stuff liberally (it’ll make the house more fun to eat later!) Especially when putting walls up, ice both inside and outside of each corner. This will ensure that the walls are super secure. This also applies to the baseboards of your house. Ice where your walls and that oh-so-necessary foundation we discussed meet, again both inside and out. The more you ice, the more places to stick small candies (again, making it more fun to devour later). This brings me to my next tip. 4. Candy is your friend, too. And it doesn’t just serve as a decorative purpose; it also adds stability to your corners and where the walls meet the foundation. 5. The roof is the hardest part. So before you start, make sure you’ve cleared your mind, centered your chi or whatever it is you do to mentally prepare for a challenge. It’s best to do this only when the icing on the walls and foundation are completely dry. This will keep your entire creation from crumbling while you try to put the roof on. Once you’ve iced the two halves of the roof together and where they touch the walls, you have to physically hold the roof together while the icing dries. Don’t worry, you won’t need to maintain this position until it completely dries, but just long enough for the icing to set a little. If this fails continuously, there’s no shame in going adobe style. We are in San Antonio, after all.
When you’ve reached the end of the semester and the end of your budget, the struggle truly begins: figuring out what to get your friends and family for the holidays. Your parents are by far the easiest demographic to buy gifts for because you truly don’t have to buy them anything. Here are my top five found-around-thehouse holiday gifts you can give your parents without spending a dime of your own money. 1. Paper Towels: There is no doubt that your parents use paper towels, so it’s easy enough to take a roll from under the kitchen sink, stick a bow on it, and attach a cute note saying something like: “you can use these to clean up all the messes I get myself in.” Cute, fun and you’re done. 2. Tylenol: You can be conservative and Ziploc the recommended 2-3 pills/day or go all out and give them the whole bottle, but just attach a Post-It note with the words “for all the headaches I’ve given you,” and this is actually the easiest gift in the world. 3. Kleenex: This might be a gift that you have to give your parents before Christmas day, specifically whenever they see your semester grades. If you’re stingy, a roll of toilet paper will do. 4. Glue: Stick it in a gift bag with a cute card saying something along the lines of “maybe this will fix our broken family” or “sorry for breaking your heart,” and this gift is sure to stick in their memories. 5. Anti-Depressants: If you don’t have these lying around the house, feel free to steal a few from your roommate and maybe take a few extras for yourself, because everyone knows you haven’t celebrated the holidays right until you’ve had your Abilify. Remember, parents shouldn’t have very high standards. They have already had years of experience acting surprised and excited about your horrific handmade crafts that you likely gave them every Christmas until you were ten. They should be thankful enough that you survived the semester, let alone thought up such creative and sentimental gifts. graphic by Caroline Jakubowski
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theTrinitonian DEC.06.2013
Singing in the Symphony of the Godesses Trinity Chamber Singers and San Antonio Symphony perform “The Legend of Zelda” themed concert at the Majestic Theater Page 16
campus
Pulse
Trinity University gets into the spirit of the season with 20th annual Christmas Concert Full house expected for concert, which begins at 7:30 p.m. tonight in Laurie Auditorium
by Rose Minutaglio CAMPUS PULSE REPORTER It’s that time of year again, folks. Christmas lights are strung and mistletoe hung. The smell of peppermintmocha permeates nearly every coffee shop, and paper snowflakes can be seen decorating store windows. What better way to celebrate the start of this holiday season than by listening to some good old-fashioned Christmas music? This Friday, December 6, Trinity University will hold its 20th annual Christmas Concert in Laurie Auditorium at 7:30 p.m. This program is free and open to all students and surrounding community members. Due to the popularity of this concert, though, all 2,700 seats in Laurie generally fill up. It is important to arrive early if a good spot is desired. The stage of Laurie Auditorium will be decorated to match the festivities, complete with a giant wreath a couple of Christmas trees.
The concert includes performances by the Symphonic Wind Ensemble, Combined Trinity Choirs, the Trinity Symphony Orchestra and the Trinity University Handbell Ensemble. The Trinitones and the AcaBellas, will perform with the Trinity Brass Quartet in the lobby for some pre-concert tunes. The Trinity Jazz Ensemble will also perform post-concert music for those filing out after the performance. The songs performed at this concert get students and attendees from the San Antonio community together with their upbeat nature. With classic carols like “Jingle Bell Rock” and “Joy to the World” on the program, there is surely something to get everyone in a cheery holiday mood. “I love Christmas music,” said David Reeves, a member of the Trinity Choir. “It is a great time of year with music to match.” One of the greatest aspects of the Trinity Christmas Concert is the opportunity for the entire community to connect with students in a way that can only be done during the holiday season. “For some people, this concert is their one and only time on campus for the whole year. It gives us an opportunity not only to showcase our student talent, but also to
photo by Anh-Viet Dinh Students sing during last year’s Christmas Concert in Laurie Auditorium. This year’s concert will begin at 7:30 p.m. tonight.
connect the community with the school,” said Gary Seighman, director of choral activities. “There is something very special that occurs when people bond over music and sing together.” With such a large number and wide variety of people coming to the concert, the sing-along pieces included in the concert are mesmerizing, and the fact that thousands of voices can come together
in song is truly moving not only to the audience, but to directors as well. “As a choir director this is really inspiring because there is something special about group singing,” Seighman said. He says that there is something inherent in human nature that makes us want to sing together. Every culture at one point or another has incorporated group singing
into their development, so there is something that is socially familiar for people about coming together through music. “I like going to the Christmas concert because it is so cool to see all of the families in the San Antonio community and Trinity students sitting together enjoying the Christmas season,” said junior Kinsey Miller. “It is a really special sight.”
Campus community ready to spend Christmas on Oakmont Tradition voted favorite aspect of Trinity University in last year’s All Things Trinity Tournament by Meagan Oglesby CAMPUS PULSE REPORTER One of the most popular traditions at Trinity is Christmas on Oakmont. Some of the Trinity faculty and staff located on Oakmont will open their doors this Sunday, Dec. 8, immediately after Vespers and invite in members of the Trinity community to celebrate the holidays together. Each of the houses participating in the event will serve a different snack or holiday treat such as hot chocolate, Christmas cookies, coffee or tamales. The Trinity University Chamber Singers will also be traveling from house to house
and will perform a few classic holiday songs. “I really love carols, so I’m just excited to be with my friends and sing at each of the houses,” said sophomore Lydia Benedict, a leader of the Choir Advisory Team and member of the Chamber Singers. This Trinity tradition is known for how much enjoyment it brings to everyone involved. “It is so cheesy, but I really like how happy students are to be participating. People are so friendly, smiling and polite. It makes me feel really happy about being at Trinity,” said David Tuttle, associate vice president of student affairs and dean of students, in an email. Sara Hartman, a senior student ambassador, is excited to be involved with Christmas on Oakmont by helping out in the participating homes, greeting the guests and serving food. “I love eating all the delicious treats and hanging out with the president. It’s
photo by Anh-Viet Dinh Trinity students sing Christmas carols in Trinity’s Oakmont properties last year as part of the Christmas on Oakmont tradition.
the best way to get into the holiday spirit on campus,” Hartman said. Last year in the All Things Trinity Tournament, Christmas on Oakmont won first place as the most popular aspect of Trinity. The tournament included other popular traditions,
organizations, people and places associated with Trinity, but Christmas on Oakmont dominated them all. The popularity of this tradition is definitely evident in the high numbers of students who attend Christmas on Oakmont. “I think the turnout is due to the festivity of the season, the
fact that students have heard about this as a storied Trinity tradition, and I suppose the free food helps,” Tuttle said. The event is also appreciated for the hospitality and friendliness shown by everyone involved.
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“I think it has to do with the faculty wanting to reach out to students and welcoming them into their homes. I think students really appreciate that. You don’t get that at every school,” Benedict said. The number of houses participating in the event has increased recently as some academic departments have been relocated to Oakmont due to construction. Last year, the biology department, the psychology department and the engineering department all took part in the holiday celebration. The annual Christmas Vespers worship service will be held at 6 p.m. in the Trinity Chapel with prelude music beginning at 5:30 p.m., and the houses on Oakmont will open their doors directly after the service from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Trinity Diversity Connection
wishes everyone good luck on their final exams!
Have a great winter break!
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Texas Freedom Network establishes Trinity group Organization works for separation of church and state among other issues by Rose Minutaglio CAMPUS PULSE REPORTER The Trinity University Student Chapter of Texas Freedom Network is now an established group on campus and is open to all interested students. This newly registered club is a student branch of the state organization Texas Freedom Network, a nonpartisan grassroots organization based in Austin. Aside from Trinity, the organization has various chapters on university campuses statewide, including Southern Methodist University, University of Texas at Austin and University of Houston. Founded in 1995, TFN is an organization that involves itself with pressing issues in the state of Texas. In essence, the organization acts as the state’s watchdog. They look to protect religious freedoms, defend civil liberties and strengthen the public school system in Texas. The organization monitors rightwing issues, institutions, money and politicians. TFN is also one of the leading groups in Texas responsible for defeating initiatives laced with religious intent, including textbook censorship at the Texas State Board of Education. TFN refers to itself as “the resource of record on the religious right in Texas.” The Trinity University Student Chapter of Texas Freedom Network hopes to accomplish much of these same goals. “The work TFN does is important to me because I am a strong supporter of the separation of church and state,” said Michelle Clifford, a junior sociology major. Since 2006, TFN has been heavily involved in youth activism, especially through its establishment of official student organizations on campuses in
Texas. These chapters have been known to host a variety of events ranging from petition campaigns to issue forums. Erin McCann, a senior environmental policy major and political science minor, hopes to get involved with Texas Freedom Network. “I’m interested in TFN because it aims to promote equality and freedom in issues that aren’t necessarily popular or that don’t get a lot of attention in Texas,” McCann said. “These issues range from topics like the teaching of evolution in public schools to preventing hate crimes involving same-sex marriage–both of which I think are important to promote [awareness about as issues].” Members of the TFN chapter at Trinity will promote these causes at a local and state level, as well as on the Trinity campus. Jean Larkin, founding president of the Trinity University Student Chapter of Texas Freedom Network, has voiced that the organization will focus on quality public education, the separation of church and state and proper sex education. “TFN hopes to work with students, faculty and staff to foster an inclusive environment and encourage activism,” Larkin said. Not only does the Trinity University Student Chapter of Texas Freedom Network give college students the chance to support or protest Texas policy issues, it also presents unique opportunities for its members to participate in exclusive experiences. “Joining TFN has been the greatest experience,” Larkin said. “I’ve had a comprehensive tour of the state capitol and was able to learn more about the Texas state legislature. I lobbied on Capitol Hill with students from all over the world and founded relationships with phenomenal people.” The Trinity University Student Chapter of Texas Freedom Network will hold its first meeting next week. Be sure to check out their Facebook page, TFN @ TU, for more details on upcoming meeting times.
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Trinity Chamber Singers link with San Antonio Symphony for “The Legend of Zelda” concert Trinity alumnus Alex Bretoi arranges opportunity for Trinity students at Majestic Theater by Chloe Pope-Levison CAMPUS PULSE REPORTER On Tuesday, December 3, the Trinity Chamber Singers, under the direction of assistant professor of music Gary Seighman, had the opportunity to perform “The Legend of Zelda: Symphony of the Goddesses– Second Quest,” with the San Antonio Symphony at the Majestic Theater in downtown San Antonio.
“One of the alumni from the Trinity choir is Alex Bretoi, and he works at the Majestic and arranged for us to sing the chorus part for the symphony for that performance,” said sophomore Lydia Benedict. “The conductor was asking around to see what choir should sing for this song, and Alex said, ‘Oh, I think that the chamber singers should sing. They’re really quick learners, and they can sing this really well.’ It was because of Alex that we were given this opportunity.” The performance was based on the best-selling video game “The Legend of Zelda,” which was first released in 1986 for Nintendo. “In ‘The Legend of Zelda,’ the main character is Link, and he’s going through the land of Hyrule protecting the Triforce,” said first
year Javan Stalls. “Link’s usually fighting Ganondorf, which is the evil force, and he is always trying to save Princess Zelda. That’s pretty much the gist of the majority of the games.” As the choir and orchestra performed, gaming clips of various versions of “The Legend of Zelda” from over the years played on a full screen hanging down behind the performers. “The music coincided directly with the action happening on the screen, and there were lots of lighting effects during it as well— it was a very big multimedia event,” Seighman said. “One of the creators of ‘The Legend of Zelda: Symphony of the Goddess’ tour mentioned that he always envisioned what Zelda would be like if it were a feature film.
His idea was to have the music done by a full orchestra, which would give a lot more dramatic intensity to the storyline behind the Zelda franchise.” The “Legend of Zelda” performance was a prime opportunity for members of the audience to indulge in one of their favorite childhood pastimes, and the members embraced it fully. “It was a huge audience, and a lot of them were avid ‘Zelda’ fans—I grew up with the game myself, with the very first version ever on Nintendo gaming,” Seighman said. “Lots of people dressed up in costumes, there were sword fights in the aisles during intermission, and people had their Nintendo DSes playing along with the concert.”
The chamber singers only had a little over a month to rehearse for the performance, which coincided with both finals and tonight’s Christmas Concert. However, the singers were able to nail the music after only five classes. On Tuesday, the choir met at 1 p.m. at Trinity to practice and then traveled down to the Majestic Theater to practice with the orchestra from 3 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. prior to the show. “Performances are always a rush of energy for me, and the larger the concert, the crazier it is,” Stalls said. “It’s a big deal to be able to perform in a venue like the Majestic Theater with an ensemble of that caliber— it’s really exciting.”
Loon-E Crew honors vision of group’s founder with show Free performance will also feature Prowlers, CoCo Bros and Korean Student Association by Meagan Oglesby CAMPUS PULSE REPORTER
Need a good break from studying for finals? Come out and watch the Loon-E Crew’s annual free dance show at 8 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 9, in Laurie Auditorium. The Loon-E Crew Experience will include eight different dances choreographed and performed by the members of the crew. Dances will also be performed by the Prowlers, the CoCo Bros and the Korean Student Association. According to senior Peter Dancy, a former Loon-E Crew co-captain, the show is a tribute to Maduka Ogba, the founder of Loon-E Crew. “The show is a celebration of what the Crew’s original founder, Maduka Ogba, wanted to achieve with it, as well as a showcase for all of the work
and effort that has been put in by Loon-E Crew and the other dance groups involved,” Dancy said. The members of Loon-E Crew have been working on some of these dances since the beginning of the semester. It takes a surprising amount of time and hard work to put together just one dance routine. “For me, it takes a long time,” said Ronja Behrends, a sophomore and co-captain of Loon-E Crew. “I’d say about two to three hours per minute of good diligent choreography.” This process takes a long time because there are so many different things to consider when putting together a dance. “You have to come up with choreography the dancers can learn, that will look good in a large group, that’s different, but looks good. It’s just difficult to do in general,” said senior Krista Campolo, the captain of Loon-E Crew. “Other important factors include formations, stage lighting and mixing music.” Although choreographing these dances can be very difficult and time-consuming, it is also very rewarding. “You get to represent yourself. You get to envision something
photo by Anh-Viet Dinh Trinity’s hip-hop dance group, Loon-E Crew, dances at Momentum last spring. The group is hosting a free show on Monday.
you want to do, and people will be able to recreate and amplify that expression,” said junior Po Lin, a member of Loon-E Crew and one of the choreographers for the upcoming show. Any of the members of Loon-E Crew can choose their own music, put together a dance and teach it to the rest of the crew. “We like to get a lot of the members choreographing so we get diverse choreography,” Campolo said. “I commend all the choreographers who have stepped up this year.” A lot of the inspiration for a dance can come from hearing catchy, interesting music with a
good beat. “I like to pick songs that are hard-hitting but also ones people can recognize. People like songs that are familiar, that they dance to on a regular basis, but some of the songs might not be recognizable,” Campolo said. Another form of inspiration behind the dances has come from YouTube videos featuring popular dancers such as Ian Eastwood, Brian Puspos and SoReal Cru-a dance crew made up of middle-school-aged children. The members of Loon-E Crew are excited to see how
the audience will react to the upcoming show. “People who aren’t as into dance as we are don’t really expose themselves to that type of media. To me, it’s really exciting that it’s an eye-opener for them and they get a peek into our world,” Lin said. The students are ready to show off all of the hard work they’ve put in over the course of the semester in preparation for this show. “It’s a great study break, and it’s just nice for people to come out and see what we’ve been working on for the entire semester,” Behrends said.
write letters to children in the hospital. “Many bears are needed because Chelsea, her family and those who want to carry on Chloe’s legacy give the bears to children with cancer in a Houston Hospital and a San Antonio Hospital,” said junior Andrea Moniaci. “These bears mean a lot to the children. It brightens their day. It shows that someone cares. These children do not get much interaction with people beside their family and doctors. People who come in, such as Trinity students, make their day.”
Last year, Trinity students themselves brought bears to children, which had a positive impact on the students as well as the children. “I had the privilege to deliver bears last year at the San Antonio hospital, and it changed my life,” Moniaci said. “I definitely got more out of it than the children receiving the bears did. It is really eye-opening, and it taught me to not take life for granted. These children are going through a really hard fight.” There are multiple ways for other Trinity students to get
involved. One can volunteer at the table, which is in the library from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 9, and Tuesday, Dec. 10, to get collections, donate to help pay for bears with Tigerbucks or cash and write a card at the table. Other volunteer options include purchasing a $10 e-gift card through the BuildA-Bear website (http://www. b u i l d a b e a r. c o m / s h o p p i n g / eGiftCard.jsp) and sending it to Castillo at ccastil5@trinity.edu or building your own Build-aBear and dropping it off at the table in the library.
Trinity University Volunteer Action Committee wishes “beary” Christmas to kids by Chloe Pope-Levison The holiday season is supposed to be a time of magic, beauty and wonder, and Trinity University Volunteer Action Committee’s group, Can-Survive, is bringing that wonder to children battling cancer through the Chloe’s Wish project, which brings Build-A-Bears to these children. Started by Chelsea Castillo ‘12, this project is carried on by Trinity students. “The Build-A-Bear event was started by Chelsea and her sister in honor of their other sister
who died of cancer when she was little,” said junior Rachel Barnes. “It was originally held only in Houston (where they’re from), but when they came to Trinity, they started it here. The whole purpose is to try to brighten up the holiday season of those kids that have to battle cancer.” After being diagnosed with cancer, Castillo’s little sister Chloe thought it would be a good idea to give Build-A-Bears, which were her favorite toys, to other patients in the hospital. Castillo decided to carry that legacy on, and now Trinity students bring bears and
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Which teachers are on the nice list and which ones are on the naughty list? The one way to find out: student evaluations
xoxo
It is strange how a semester—or time itself— can seem to move past us at an incredible pace while it simultaneously feels slow. I am now a junior in college finishing my fifth semester, with only three more semesters to go until I have to go out and find a job. As I prepare to embrace the big, scary world of adulthood, I recognize that a lot has also happened in my life since entering college. I hesitate to say that I am a different person from who I was in high school, but I have definitely learned a lot since then (multiple
programming languages, obscure comic series), experienced many new things (having a job, doing laundry) and met very different types of people (intelligent, interesting and strange people—some having all three qualities). It seems that a lot happened during those few days of Thanksgiving break, yet I hate the fact that I am back in school doing work so soon. All this pontificating about time leads me to my main point: time is just a figment of our imaginations. We are all just a part of The Matrix. Is this real life, or is this just fantasy? I think the entire paragraph above is a good start to a course evaluation, but it is definitely lacking in some areas. The fiery and spirited existential debate that is constantly raging inside your head between your two imaginary friends needs to
be more prominent. It is also imperative to showcase the varied histories of your past lives. This is very important. Some may say that course evaluations are pointless and a waste of everyone’s time. Some may say that evaluations are important so that the professor (and the department) can better assess how effective their methodologies are. It provides feedback from the people learning—and learning is arguably the whole point of college and school in general. Evaluations could affirm a professor’s good practices and curb bad ones. But some may have had horrible classes where their self-esteem, attention span or GPA were damaged. For those poor souls, the course evaluations are not a way to provide constructive criticisms for those who will come after them. Instead,
course evaluations are their last hope—one last chance to satisfy their thirst for petty revenge. This is the time to rise up and gather your keyboards in anger—hands in home row position, ready to let everyone know what you really think (so long as your name is not attached to the message). Just in case the overt and blatant (and crummy) satire went unnoticed, I would like to note that most professors really take into consideration what is said on course evaluations. I had one professor give out his own (that was still anonymous) course evaluation halfway through the semester to gauge the students’ thoughts on the class. Though it may be difficult when frustrated by an assignment or a grade, it is important to realize that they are just people, too: people who try new things or do
well-intentioned things that do not turn out so well. Even in those rare classes where all you want to do is hate the class and the professor, some restraint and thought should always accompany the evaluations—not necessarily due to the possible emotional damage any really harsh criticism might bring; it is just too easy to dismiss valid points and concerns you may bring up when you say one small passive-aggressive thing that detracts from your message. Just because you don’t have a better idea to fix something, it doesn’t mean there isn’t a problem. Really, that isn’t your job. Even if all you have is nonconstructive criticism, be sure to be as thorough as possible. Most importantly, do not be an insensitive, rude jerk— anonymity does not give you the right.
In a few more weeks, yet another year of cinematic highs and lows shall be left behind us. It was not a great one, like last year, which brought us everything from “Les Misérables” to “Moonrise Kingdom,” but it was a commendable and creative year nonetheless. Soon we will see a deluge of “best” and “worst” lists meant to put that year into perspective. For this last column of 2013, I would like
to take a look at some of the overlooked works that will not make those lists as well as some overrated ones that probably will. Let us start with the bad— or, more accurately, the not-asgood-as-they-say. For me, no major release this year was greeted with hugely undeserved critical hosannas quite like “Gravity,” a theme park ride disguised as a thinking man’s picture. I, too, was awed by the special effects, but even as I sat staring in amazement at the immaculately constructed CGI environments, I could not help but roll my eyes at the fauxdeep “story.” With this picture, Alfonso Cuaron fell victim to the George Lucas Curse, growing
so enamored with the worldbuilding abilities afforded by special effects that he forgot to fill that world with interesting characters. Meanwhile, in “Iron Man 3,” the most critically and commercially successful of this year’s super-flicks, Shane Black was struck by the Marvel Movie Curse, which I discussed in a previous column. Almost every major character is threatened with death, but the sheer franchise feel of the picture makes that highest of stakes feel impossibly low. Also, did Tony Stark totally have that Mandarin attack coming, or what? Dude literally gave the bad guy his address. That man of iron, combined with “Man of Steel,”
overshadowed the strongest superhero film of the summer: “The Wolverine,” a perfect example of how to marry character-building with big explosions. Speaking of marriage, a word of advice: even if a romantic dramedy about Orthodox Jews does not sound like your thing, check out “Fill The Void” anyway. It may be the best of all Israeli films, and that’s coming from an amateur Israeli film buff. You will be bawling by the time the credits roll, and not in a soporific, Nicholas Sparks way. This bold and careful drama earns your tears. Yet perhaps the most overlooked film of 2012 is “The East,” an eco-thriller starring Ellen Page, which did
not even earn back its own budget. You should help it do so by renting the thing. The picture does not just use the social and political climate of the United States as a backdrop—it foregrounds urgent questions of reason and responsibility and does so with as much moody intensity as any film featuring Jason Bourne. It is not perfect, and you must forgive it a few moments of unintentional silliness, but it is more than worth your patience. And with that, I put down my metaphorical pen and go on holiday. Have a great break, everyone. Drink hot chocolate from a mug. Watch some great movies. Read some great books. See you again in the spring.
The most overlooked movies of 2013
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theTrinitonian DEC.06.2013
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Indie Overnight Playlist
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How to do Wizard World right
Our Christmas angel Matthew Peebles, who should guide Santa’s sleigh, provides another fantastic mix this week. “Ich Dich Leibe” by Pink Martini “Nevermind the End” by Tei Shi “Unaware” by Allen Stone “I Wanna Be Your Man” by Willy Moon “Untie My Shoelaces” by Sister Sparrow and the Dirty Birds
KRTU 91.7 Excuses to hibernate By Subrat Mahapatra, Intern
Time and time again we have learned the importance of sleep, especially in relation to academic success. But during finals, we often sacrifice time to sleep in order to achieve academic success. Well, here lies the main paradox of finals: we need sleep but we don’t have time to sleep. So here are excuses you should use in order to get some shut eye. I know the material: I will definitely be able to catch up. This bed is far too soft to leave.
How is it time already? My watch must be wrong.
I will be late if I leave now. I don’t want to be embarrassed. I need to sleep to heal my brain.
Sleep is important for mental development. I have been so stressed out lately, I need a break. I don’t think I got enough REM last night.
Sleeping is just so much easier than anything I have planned today. I think I might have the flu.
My alarm didn’t ring loud/long enough.
Wizard World provides you the oppurtunity to see celebrities like “Walking Dead”’s Michael Rooker. By: Kenneth Caruthers and Mason Walker Two of our intrepid staff members attended Wizard World Austin Comic-Con last month. Here’s what they learned…
Do order your tickets in advance online. Besides being $10 cheaper (maybe even more if you can find a discount code), buying your tickets before the day of the event saves you from waiting in line at the entrance. Well, that’s actually a little bit of a lie. You will have to wait in line regardless of what kind of ticket you purchase. It’s all part of the experience though. Seriously, throughout the day, you will probably wonder why it isn’t just called Line Con instead of Comic Con. So I guess the whole “not having to wait in line if you buy your tickets before you get there” part was a load of bs since they group everybody into the same line, but it is still worth doing to save a few bucks.
Do pack a lunch. Yes, there are areas at Comic Con where you can get food, coffee and the like, but as we have learned by this point, nothing comes quickly at Line Con. The line for food seemed even longer than the ticket line to gain admission. Even after waiting a couple of hours, the line appeared as though it had grown. Besides, most of the food and coffee is sure to be overpriced. Although leaving and walking to find a local eatery in the neighborhood is an option since your wristband grants you admission for the entire day, save yourself the trouble and needless exercise by packing a simple sandwich lunch. Heck, take the opportunity to show off that old tin “Star Wars” or superhero lunch box. Do wear comfortable shoes. By the end of the day, you’re going to feel like you’ve just trekked through all four theme parks of Disney World. Since it’s
Line Con, there’s going to be tons of standing around. Even if you’re the fittest person you know, you’re almost guaranteed to feel exhausted by the end of the day. Take this into consideration when deciding whether or not to wear a costume. Don’t hesitate to find a nice cozy spot against a wall if you need to recharge for a few minutes. Do bring money. Let’s face it. Even if you set a price limit for yourself, you’re going to find yourself spending money like there’s no tomorrow. That’s perfectly acceptable because there’s so much awesome merchandise and artwork. Don’t be that person that didn’t buy a single item at Comic Con. P.S. It’s a great place to take care of birthday or holiday shopping. Do bring some sort of bag. You’re not going to want to carry your program and purchases around the entire day. A backpack makes life much easier. Plus, you need to have your hands free in case a photo opp presents itself.
Do have a phone charger handy. With all of the photos, videos, tweets and status updates you’re going to be posting throughout the day, your phone battery won’t last as long as it usually does, and you’re really going to need your phone when you get separated from your friends (which is absolutely guaranteed to happen at least once).
Don’t feel like you have to wear a costume. Sure, there are plenty of cosplayers around at Comic Con, as can be expected, but these cosplayers are outnumbered by the number of people in just jeans and a t-shirt. It’s perfectly acceptable to wear a t-shirt from the fandom of your choice. However, if you have the time and money necessary, then by all means feel free to go wild designing a costume to wear for the occasion. Make it
Upcoming Wizard Worlds: Portaland Comic Con January 24-26 New Orleans Comic Con February 7-9 Sacremento Comic Con March 7-9 Louisville Comic Con March 28-30
as crazy and unique as possible because the people there are in no position to judge you (unless you enter the costume contest, that is).
Don’t forget to support the artists. With all the celebs and photo ops, it’s easy to forget about the Little Guys--the hardworking artists and craftsmen who make their livelihoods off of what they sell at these conventions. Don’t forget to stop by their booths. What you’ll find will run the gamut from clever (the “Mona Leia”, featuring everyone’s favorite specific princess) to creepy (some eerily explicit vampire erotica), but one thing’s for sure; it won’t be boring. Don’t hold back during Q&A’s. Seriously. Most actors at a Con are there because they **enjoy** being there. Don’t just ask the actors what their favorite part of working on a show was. At Q&A’s I arrived at, questions ranged from what the celeb’s favorite kind of dog was to whether or not they had good aim with a gun. All of these sorts of questions were enthusiastically--and often hilariously--answered. That said...
Don’t expect William Shatner to actually answer your question. By this point, we all know that Shatner, the original Captain Kirk, is actually an alien. But attending a Q&A with him serves as further reinforcement of that fact. No matter what question a fan asked him, Shatner responded with bizzaro-world, stream-of-conscious rants. Sample exchange: Q: “You played a womanizer on ‘Star Trek’. Tell us about that experience.” A: “You...seem to be asking me about a man/woman relationship. Which is sacred and unique. Beyond what has been stated up to this point, no more advice can be given.”
St. Louis Comic Con April 4-6 Minneapolis Comic Con May 2-4 Atlanta Comic Con May 30-31 Philadelphia Comic Con 19-22 San Antonio Comic Con August 1-3
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20 DEC.06.2013
arts and entertainment
There is light at the end of the tunnel! Here are A&E suggestions on what you should do when not burdened with schoolwork.
Life-Changing Reading
Rather than simply regurgitate my own utterly incoherent and random holiday reading list or start foisting my all-time favorites on you, I thought I would instead offer a list of books that, in this avid reader’s opinion, have the potential to change one’s life, to alter the way one thinks and acts in the world. Heck, if nothing else, I can guarantee that, should you read even one of them, you will come back to campus with new perspectives in addition to your new presents. Without further ado...
“Middlemarch” Yes, it is an 800-page Victorian novel— what my roommate would call a “Mr. Johnson Comes to Tea” sort of book. But if you come to this book willing to wade through a few dull parlor chats, you will likely get swept up in the story of Dorothea Brooke, a pious but troubled girl wrestling with questions of love and
responsibility in a provincial town. Its massive cast of carefully and colorfully drawn characters will not leave your head— and its clear-eyed, unsentimental celebration of little acts of kindness and mercy will remain in your heart.
“Howards End” The metaphor at the center of the book is a bit obvious— a battle over the titular estate represents struggles over countless other issues and emotions. But everything else about it— the characters, the painterly prose— is beautifully nuanced. In writing this book, E.M. Forster was grappling with, among other things, the proper response to modernity. His suggested response— “Only connect!”— still rings true today. “A Clean, Well-Lighted Place” “I am with all those who need a light for that night.” That deeply moving sentence, one of my favorites in all of literature, is at the heart of this Hemingway short story. Like the man’s best work, it finds the big in what is seemingly simple and small. Here, a chat between two waiters at closing time becomes a
stirring affirmation of human solidarity.
“Slouching Towards Bethlehem” The articles anthologized in the book’s first half are classic examples of New Journalism, but the essays in its second half pack a nigh-incomparable punch. The titles of those essays— ”On Going Home,” “On Keeping A Notebook,” “Goodbye To All That”— indicate that Didion is taking on the Big Topics, and when someone of her perspicacity and genius does that, we must listen. “This Is Water” If you want maximum genius at minimal length, check out the late, great David Foster Wallace’s speech, surely the best graduation talk ever given. Here, he touches on generational angst (we are in danger of winding up “imperially alone”), faith (“the only choice we get is what to worship”), love (which is sustained in “myriad petty little unsexy ways, every day”) and so much more. His impeccably crafted phrases are unforgettable; his generosity, which practically radiates off the page, is contagious.
How to win a cuddle buddy to keep warm over this break A dialogue of winter-themed pick-up lines for your enjoyment. By Maddie Smith “Is that an icicle in your pants? Or are you just happy to see me?” “I’ve become frostsmitten with you.” “My love for you will last forever... green. Like the trees.” “I wasn’t joking, I think an icicle fell in your pants.” “If you were a DEER, I’d never try to REIN you in. Because I respect you as an individual person with your own hopes and dreams. Do you want to go discuss our independent plans for the future? Maybe read some Margaret Atwood? I value your opinion.” “I’ll give you a real reason to wear that ugly turtleneck.” “Seriously, it’s weird that you haven’t taken the icicle out of your pants yet. It’s starting to melt... aren’t you cold?” “Also, I was so frostsmitten that my hand had to be amputated. Thanks.” “And who wears turtlenecks anymore?” “Do you want to see my snowballs?” “Okay! Nevermind!” “You and this weather have one thing in common. You’re both frigid.” “I’d like to hibermate with you.” “Okay, I’ll admit that that crossed the line.” “ Where are are you going? I wanted to eggnsnog you!” “Well, it looks like I’m going to have to jacket off this winter.”
When your mind can no longer process words
My true love in terms of media consumption definitely has to be video games. Unfortunately, time to play during the semester is limited—unless I decide to forego my responsibilities like I did when I started playing “Skyrim” or “Minecraft.” Sorry for missing class that one time, Dr. Delwiche. Video games are ubiquitous, though. I know too many people who would never touch a console, yet would play “Candy Crush” everywhere. Comics, on the other hand, are a medium that is generally viewed as a niche and carries a certain stigma. Even though
comics have been around for a long time (cave paintings being an early precursor), they do not have the same clout as books or movies. It is confusing, but I know that this medium is a legitimate form of art and everyone should be exposed to it. You should try one of these titles over the break. I would write another article about “Sandman,” but I imposed some self-restraint. I opted to start this list with “Hawkeye,” written by Matt Fraction and illustrated by David Aja. The Hawkeye series, under Matt Fraction’s current reign (since 2012), has become one of the most interesting ongoing series in the comic book industry—something I think many people (including myself) thought they would never say, similar to when “Aquaman” became interesting. Clint Barton, Hawkeye’s real name, is an ordinary guy who
just happens to be really good at archery and is part of the Avengers. He comes off as an uncaring jerk but, in reality, he has a big heart plus a great dog. The art and style of the comic might be my favorite part, though. It has a lot of straight lines (which sounds silly out of context but adds a cool effect) and concurrent elements layered on top of each other. It is difficult to articulate, so I definitely recommend seeing it yourself. The idea to do a piece about graphic novels came from the news that AMC has officially ordered a pilot for a new show. Like “The Walking Dead,” this show is based off of a comic series: “Preacher,” written by Garth Ennis and illustrated by Steve Dillon. More than any other comic I have read, “Preacher” is one I would never want my parents to read. Jesse Custer, a preacher in a
small Texas town, receives the power to command anyone to do whatever he says. In one scene, he orders a man to “go f*ck himself” and the man does so as his son watches in horror. One of the characters is a kid named Arseface due to his face looking like a… well, you get the point. Oh, also, Custer is journeying across the United States to find God and make him (God) pay for his sins against humanity. It is definitely not for everyone, but it also features amazing characters. The story may feature vampires and a cult that protects Jesus’ bloodline, but it never feels hokey. It actually feels very real and heartfelt most of the time. If I had to recommend just one graphic novel to read over the break, it would be “Blankets” by Craig Thompson because of the gratuitous amounts of snow featured in
the book. Almost every single scene was set at a time when snow covered the ground. I read it around August when the heat was bearing down on me like an angry baby (that was a Teletubbies reference, by the way). Yet reading the book gave me this feeling of comfort and warmth. All I wanted to do was curl up in a ball underneath a blanket with a cup of hot chocolate in one hand and “Blankets” in the other. Craig Thompson writes about his childhood, his first love and his early adulthood. This coming-of-age story feels incredibly personal and heartfelt. I think it is impossible not to relate to Craig and his feelings and thoughts. His life is simultaneously bittersweet and hopeful. We grow up and we lose a bit of ourselves, but we also experience new things and become a bit fuller as people.
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Women’s cross country finishes 20th Tigers have a strong showing at theTrinitonian NCAA Championships meet Page 23 DEC.06.2013
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Women’s hoops win four straight Trinity improves season record to 7-1 with wins over Thanksgiving Page 25
Women’s soccer team heads to Final Four Tigers make first Final Four trip since 2002 and will compete for title in San Antonio by Davis Mathis SPORTS INTERN
The No. 2 Trinity women’s soccer team came into this season with high expectations and, so far, are on track to achieve all of their goals. They have made it to the Final Four round for the first time since the 2002 season. This national semifinal trip is only the third in the school’s history. The road to the Final Four went through San Antonio for the Sweet Sixteen and Elite Eight matches against No. 5 Montclair State (NJ) and No. 4 Wheaton (Ill.) “We played wonderful soccer and I am extremely proud of our achievement and hope to continue our winning momentum,” said assistant coach Owen Collie. The joy is understandable after making the Final Four for the first time in 11 years, but the team is not done yet, as they have their sights and hopes set on a National Championship. “We know the upcoming match will be intense, physical, competitive, and we can’t wait to go out there and play. The coaches have been getting us into our normal practice routine, and the team has been focused on getting the most out of each session. The team feels overwhelmingly positive about the Final Four— honored to be a part of it, proud of our accomplishments so far, excited to go play,” said senior defender Jenni White. In the Sweet Sixteen game on Nov. 22, Trinity came up against Montclair State and gave a dominating performance, taking a 2-0 lead behind a goal from first-
Women’s Soccer NCAA Semifinals vs. Middlebury College at 1:30 p.m. at Toyota Field Basketball Men: Away at Albion University at 5 p.m. Women: Away at McWilliams Classic
photo courtesy of Miguel Webber Senior midfielder Michelle Lanier dribbles by a defender during Trinity’s 2-1 NCAA quarterfinal victory over Wheaton College. The victory sent the Tigers to their first Final Four since the 2002 season.
year midfielder Yasmeen Farra and an early second half stunner from outside eighteen yards from junior midfielder Kelsey Falcone.
“We played wonderful soccer and I am extremely proud of our achievement and hope to continue our winning momentum.” Owen Collie Assistant Coach
Trinity conceded one late goal, but was able to easily hold on to the win and advance to the Elite Eight.
Women’s Soccer If win Friday, NCAA Championship at 1:30 p.m. at Toyota Field
Basketball Men: Away at University of Chicago at 3 p.m. Women: Away at McWilliams Classic
In the Elite Eight round on Nov. 23, the second-ranked Trinity Tigers faced the fourthranked Wheaton College. A fairly even start led to Wheaton taking a 1-0 lead midway through the first half, but Trinity was not interested in being behind, as they quickly equalized through junior midfielder Hannah Kuhl with a strike from the right into the far corner. Junior midfielder Emily Jorgens assisted on Kuhl’s goal, putting her at 29 assists on the season, one shy of the NCAA single-season record. “I am especially proud of the resilience we showed after going a goal down against Wheaton. I think as a team, we had confidence in ourselves and knew we would bounce back,” Falcone said. After a hard-fought second half, Trinity eventually got
the winner in the 72nd minute. Sophomore midfielder Kimberly Polasek put one in the back of the net after she cut past a defender and placed a finish past the keeper to the far post.
“We know the upcoming match will be intense, physical, competitive, and we can’t wait to go out there.” Jenni White Senior Defender
The win improved the Tigers’ record to 24-0-2 on the season.
Trinity plays their first Final Four match at 2:30 p.m. today against No. 13 Middlebury College (Conn.) at Toyota Field in San Antonio. Trinity is cohosting the NCAA Men’s and Women’s Soccer Championships with San Antonio Sports for the fifth straight year. The president of the university has arranged for buses to transport students, faculty and staff to Toyota Field from Trinity for the game. Faculty members with classes at that time have the option to make alternative class arrangements as well. Should Trinity win in the semifinals, the Tigers will face the winner of Capital University and No. 3 William Smith College tomorrow at 1:30 p.m for the national championship. The Tigers have never won a women’s soccer national championship.
Men’s Basketball Home vs. University of Texas at Dallas 6 p.m.
graphic by Caroline Jakubowski
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Women’s cross country team completes season with 20th place finish at NCAA Championships Seven runners competed in 6K race in Indiana by Julie Robinson SPORTS REPORTER The Trinity women’s cross country team wrapped up their season at the NCAA Championship race on Nov. 23 in Hanover, Ind. at Hanover College. This was a 6K race for the Tiger women, and they came into the competition ranked ninth in the nation. The men did not qualify “It was an honor to be compared to and compete with the best schools in the country. We were all really nervous for the race and it showed in our performance. The best part, though, was knowing that my teammates worked so hard to get to that one last race— especially since we are all upperclassmen and have really developed as runners together,” said senior captain Jackie Newell.
The competition was challenging—not only at the race, but also in qualifying. Only the top seven women’s runners from Trinity were allowed to attend. Each team is given a total score based on the rankings of their top seven runners. The seven runners selected to run for Trinity were juniors Nicola Hill, Autumn Kervella and Michelle Oberndorf, as well as seniors Maddy Murphy, Jackie Newell, Vanessa Moreno and Rosemary Steup. The race had 280 total runners competing.
“It was an honor to be compared to and compete with the best schools in the country.” Jackie Newell Senior Captain
Johns Hopkins (Md.) was the National Champion on
the women’s side with 85 points. However, Trinity runner Maddie Murphy led the Tigers with a 45th-place finish at a time of 22 minutes, 8.3 seconds, to help Trinity take 20th place overall with 486 points. “This cross country season was full of great accomplishments from every runner on the team. The training and hard work we started back in May was definitely shown in our performance this season and by having the opportunity to return to nationals. Even though the results weren’t as we had hoped, we were happy to have this great season end at the national meet,” said senior Vanessa Moreno. The other Trinity runners finished as follows: Steup in 101st, Moreno in 128th, Newell in 174th, Oberndorf in 202nd, Hill in 211th and Kervella in 260th. The Trinity women’s team is graduating six senior runners this year, including Jessie Dean, Moreno, Murphy, Newell and Steup on the
women’s side and Gerardo Hernandez for the men’s team. The contributions of these six seniors were a large part of this year’s cross country team’s accomplishments; however, they will all be returning to represent the Tigers in the spring on the track team.
1-0 lead until Loras’ Alex Bradley evened the score in the 51st minute of the game. Loras’ Mike Pizzello scored seven minutes later to take the lead over Trinity. Carwile received a red card in the 68th minute of play, a contentious call, forcing the Tigers to play a man down for the rest of the game.
a goal 10 minutes in. We really needed to get a second goal while we were riding that momentum because we definitely had the upper hand, but we just couldn’t get a second goal,” said assistant coach Edward Cartee. The Tigers’ overall record was 21-3-1 and 13-1 in conference games. The Tigers’ top goal scorers were junior forward Johnny Lawson, Araujo and Ribeiro with 15, 11 and 10, respectively. The Tigers had 17 shutout games this season, and Cardone had 55 saves and a .846 save percentage. Ribeiro also led the team in assists with 18 for the season. Senior midfielder Jeff Hayes was also honored as a member of the All-SCAC Sportsmanship team. Senior defender Ben Anderson was also named a member of the Capital One Academic All-America Second Team. While the Tigers’ season has come to an end for the semester, they will play a game in the spring, the details of which will be announced next semester. Last year, the Tigers traveled to Dallas and defeated SMU 2-1. “We’re retiring nine seniors, all of whom are very special kids and
“Even though the results weren’t as we had hoped, we were happy to have this great season end at the national meet.” Vanessa Moreno Senior
Many Tigers were also honored with postseason awards. This included the SCAC All-Sportsmanship team. For cross country, sophomore Chris Soto
represented the men, while sophomore Mariana Sigala represented the women. Head coach Derick Lawrence was also named the NCAA South/Southeast Women’s Cross Country Regional Coach of the Year, while Murphy was named the NCAA South/Southeast Women’s Cross Country Runner of the Year. “This season has been a great journey for all of our studentathletes with outstanding accomplishments,” said Lawrence. “A culture and tradition of excellence has been established in this program by our seniors that can be carried on by our underclassmen. We can look towards the track and field season this spring with the same desire and goal-driven attitude that has brought us success.” The Tigers will return next year with seven seniors, nine juniors, 12 sophomores and a new class of first years. The Tigers will be aspiring to win their third straight SCAC title.
Trinity men’s soccer team finishes season with a tough 2-1 loss in NCAA quarterfinals in Iowa Tigers overcome temperatures well below freezing by Elif Yucel SPORTS REPORTER The seventh-ranked Trinity men’s soccer team lost 2-1 to Loras College (Iowa) in the quarterfinals of the NCAA Division III Tournament two weekends ago. It was the Tigers’ eighth time advancing to the quarterfinals under Paul McGinlay. The matches were played in Debuque, Iowa, where temperatures were twenty below freezing. Over 1,000 viewers were watching the live streams for both the weekend games. On Saturday, Nov. 23, the Tigers defeated Wartburg 2-1 in overtime to earn a spot in the quarterfinals. Wartburg scored in the first seven minutes of the game for a halftime lead over the Tigers, but senior midfielder Darren McAfee scored on a penalty kick on a Wartburg foul in the 58th minute of the game. “We started playing really well from the beginning, controlling the ball, maintaining good possession. Although we
went down first, the team never lost its composure and we kept battling and kept trying to get a goal because we knew it was going to come soon,” said senior forward Yuri Ribeiro. The game remained tied up until the sixth minute of the second overtime period, when Ribeiro scored the game winner on a header assisted by senior defender Jeff Hayes and sophomore defender Tom Carwile. Junior goalkeeper Matt Cardone had three saves in the game. “We dealt with the conditions very well. The majority of the team isn’t used to playing in low temperatures; we showed good mental strength throughout the games. Even though they scored in the first half, we managed to fight back. We were over the moon with our victory. It was emotionally and physically draining for everyone, but we rested as best we could for the next game,” said firstyear forward Callum Squires. On Sunday, Nov. 24 the Tigers were knocked out of the tournament by Loras. The Tigers took an early lead in the game as Carwile scored in the first nine minutes of the game, his eighth goal of the season. The Tigers maintained a
“The majority of the team isn’t used to play in low temperatures; we showed good mental strength throughout the games.” Callum Squires First-year Forward The Tigers continued to play aggressively; Ribeiro and junior midfielder Victor Araujo both took strong shots on goal, but they were saved by Loras goalkeeper Dylan Milkent. Milkent recorded four saves in the game while Cardone recorded five. “The team came out in the first half hour against Loras and played lights-out. We were all over them, scored
very talented players that contributed a lot to our season this year. However, we’re also returning all of our goalkeepers and the majority of our starting defense, so I think we’ll have a really strong defensive unit next year. We’ve got a lot of exciting, young, talented players in the program ready to step up and contribute to the attack. It’s hard to see this year’s team break up, but I’m very optimistic that we’ll have a great team again next year,” Cartee said.
“We’re retiring nine seniors, all of whom are very special kids and very talented players that contributed a lot to our season this year.” Edward Cartee Assistant Coach Next year, the Tigers will return 14 seniors, 12 juniors, 19 sophomores and a new class of first years. The Tigers will be looking to make their 13th consecutive NCAA tournament.
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Men’s and women’s swim and dive teams finish strong at the Trinity University Western Shootout Women finish in second while men come in third place by Kaileigh Phillips
SPORTS REPORTER The Trinity Tigers swimming and diving teams made their marks at the Trinity University Western Shootout, held at the Carroll Independent School District Natatorium on Friday, Nov. 22, and Sunday, Nov. 24. Trinity’s women placed second (713.5 points) behind NAIA national women’s and men’s champion Oklahoma Baptist University (948). The Tiger men were third (494), as OBU (818) emerged as the winner, and Henderson State University (617.5) was runner-up. Ten teams competed in each of the meets. “If we are to achieve good things, we must first have our swimmers and divers establish a plan for the rest of their season. Then they have to have a plan for each and every day between now and then. Finally, they have to have the self-discipline to execute their daily plan and work towards great end-
of-season performances. There’s a mental side to this as well as the day-today dedication that’s got to be there. Confidence comes from doing the work and then believing in yourself. Then, if you can visualize it, you can most likely do it,” said head swim coach John Ryan. In addition to exemplary times and scores, the Tigers posted season-leading marks in the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference. Sophomore Kara Beauchamp, the 2013 SCAC Female Swimmer of the Year, won the 200-yard individual medley at 2:11.82 minutes. Beauchamp also captured the 400 IM, clocking in at 4:39.77. Sophomore Becca Bond placed second in the 100 backstroke, with a SCACbest time of 1:00.06. Senior Melanie Gustafson, the second-place finisher in the 1,650 freestyle, registered a time of 18:06.12. She also was runner-up in the 500 freestyle (5:20.67). Junior Lydia Jones, in fourth place in the 50-yard freestyle, swam the event in 25.14. “Considering my performance at this meet, I
am very excited to see how the rest of the season goes. I am also very excited for the whole girls’ team. They really stepped it up in Dallas, and I know we are on our way to completing one of our best seasons yet,” said Jones. The Tiger women swam conference-leading times in the 200 freestyle relay, the 200 medley relay, the 400 medley relay, and the 400 freestyle relay. Jones, senior Rachel Berude, first year Kate Bommer and Beauchamp were runnersup in the 200 free relay at 1:41.29. In the 400 medley relay, the third-place team of Bond, junior Kelly Holton, senior Meghan Varner and Jones clocked in at 4:07.45. The Tigers finished in the No. 2 slot of the 400 freestyle relay, at 3:41.96. The thirdplace team of Bond, Holton, Beauchamp and Jones recorded a time of 1:51.76 in the 200 medley relay. Sophomore All-American diver Ashley Heline won the women’s 1-meter board (249.50) and the 3-meter event (299.65). “We are preparing for the rest of the season by focus on our weakest dives now, so by the time conference comes
in February, we all have very strong lists,” Heline said. Sophomore Andrew Thiesse was the only men’s event winner for the Tigers on Saturday, racing to the finish in 16:41.86 in the 1,650 freestyle. He now leads the SCAC in the 500 free, the 1,650 free, the 400 IM and the 200 backstroke. “This year the team is looking beyond winning conference. We hope to move on to the national level with a bigger presence than Trinity has ever had before,” said Thiesse. Sophomore Nikita Chirkov completed the men’s 200 IM in 2:02.00 for a 10thplace finish. Junior Stephen Culberson swam the 50 freestyle in 21.13, and finished in third place. Senior Lucas Belury was runner-up in the 1,650 freestyle (17:05.58). The third-place 200 freestyle relay unit of junior Adam Thomas, Culberson, sophomore Jon Hoffman, and first year Jacob Spitz posted a mark of 1:26.17. Culberson, sophomore Thomas Jones, Spitz, and Thomas were fifth-place finishers in the 200 medley relay (1:38.01). Trinity was also runner-up
in the 400 freestyle relay (3:12.22). Sophomore Philip Whalen was the top-finishing diver at the Western Shootout. He scored 143.40 points on the six-dive 1-meter board, and 132.55 in the 3-meter event, which also consisted of six dives. “Being halfway through the season, the preparation put in up to now has been getting our voluntary dives where they need to be, now comes our optional dives, which are our harder dives. Preparing for conference not only consists of our dives, though. It also consists of maintaining a good mental game, as diving is half physical and half mental,” said Whalen. The Trinity swim and dive also swept weekly SCAC titles, with Thiesse, Jones, Heline, and Whalen all receiving honors for their performance at the Shootout. The Trinity Winter Diving Invitational will be held Jan. 10 in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Then, Trinity’s teams host Centenary College (La.), a SCAC member, on Jan. 17 at Hixon Natatorium. The Tiger Diving Invitational is slated for Jan. 17-18.
And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:10-11
This Christmas we rejoice in the Savior’s birth! Jennifer Gilmore Adamo (Human Resources) Laura Allen (Education) Debi Arbuckle (President’s Office) Leticia Argueta (Academic Affairs) E. Cabral Balreira (Mathematics) Jackie Bevilacqua (Health Services) Brenda Black (Academic Affairs) Edwin Blanton (CCI) Mary Butler (Mail Center) Oralia Carrillo (Tiger Card) Cecily Cassidy (Residential Life) Lisa Chapa (Residential Life) Jane Childers (Psychology) Stacey Connelly (Human Commun. & Theatre)
Denise Covert (Human Resources) David Crockett (Political Science) Sharon Curry (Campus Plan. & Sustainability) L. Paige Fields (Finance & Decision Sciences) Brad Fox (KRTU) Susie Gonzalez (University Communications) Arleen Harrison (Political Science) Sandra Hernandez (Laurie Auditorium) Twyla Hough (Career Services) Carl Hubbard (School of Business) Laura Hunsicker-Wang (Chemistry)
Hanna Kuykendall (Student Affairs) Carey Latimore (History) Cindy Lara (Purchasing) Carl Leafstedt (Music) Gary Logan (Finance & Administration) Grace Martinez (Purchasing) Jesse Martinez (English) Monica Martinez (Alumni Rel. & Development) Russell McMindes (Athletics) Paul Michalak (Athletics) Sonia Mireles (Education) Ann Mueller (Art & Art History) Wayne Mueller (ITS) Greeley Myers (Alumni Rel. & Development) N. Seth Nelson (Music)
Butch Newman (Athletics) Stephen Nickle (Parker Chapel) Wanda Olson (Residential Life) Marc Powell (Athletics) Lupita Puente (Human Commun. & Theatre) Chris Pursell (Chemistry) Karen Risley (Admissions) Valerie Schweers (Admissions) Maria Soto (Human Resources) Brandon Spencer (Residential Life) Gary Tanner (Internal Audit) Olga Trejo (School of Business) Jerheme Urban (Athletics) Dena Warneke (School of Business) Mike Wilkins (Accounting) Denise Wilson (Geosciences)
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Trinity women’s basketball wins four straight games including 81-55 conference victory over Southwestern Tigers defeat Division II Angelo State among others
by Claire HooblerCurtis
SPORTS INTERN On Wednesday, Dec. 4, the Trinity women’s basketball team defeated Southwestern University 81-55 at home to get their fourth straight win. After this win, the team’s record rises to 7-1 overall and 1-0 in the SCAC, and Southwestern’s drops to 2-5 overall and 0-1 in the SCAC. The win over Southwestern follows Trinity’s 72-60 win over DII Angelo State University on Monday, Nov. 25. After that, the Tigers played in Thanksgiving Classic tournament at home, where they beat DII Southern Arkansas 82-73 on Saturday, Nov. 30. The next day, on Sunday, Dec. 1, they went undefeated in the tournament when they beat University of Mary Hardin-Baylor 91-75. During the game versus Southwestern, Southwestern scored the first points of the game and led Trinity 2-1 until the 17:17 mark when Trinity pulled ahead 4-2. After that, the Pirates tied things up again at 4-4 and 14-14, but never recaptured the lead. By
the halftime mark, the Tigers were up 40-26, and from there they coasted through the second half to win 81-55. “The Southwestern game was really fun since it is such a big rivalry game, and it was really fun to control it as easily as we did. It really wasn’t any individual performance, either, which makes it even more special for our team. We moved the ball well, we played very good defense, we were active, we rebounded well, and those are all things you need to do to win games like that,” said head coach Cameron Hill. As the season continues, the Tigers are very happy with their performances and chemistry so far and feel as though they can go far this year. “The season has been amazing so far. From day one, everyone has come in and put 100 percent. We all know what’s at stake and what we’re capable of,” said junior Taylor Hollins. Other teammates echo Hollins’ sentiments on the team atmosphere so far. “We work great together and work hard all the time. Our goals are to win conference again and get further in the national playoff tournament this season,” said first-year Randi Reinhardt.
photo by Megan McLoughlin
Senior guard Murphy Burns drives past a defender during Trinity’s 81-55 victory over Southwestern University on Wednesday, Dec. 4.
The team feels that some of their strengths this year that will help them achieve their goals are depth and team chemistry. “We’ve got really good instincts as a team and we do a great job blending our talents. We’ve got a lot of individually talented players and they work together great as a unit,” Hill said. Next up, the Tigers travel to St. Louis, Mo. to play in the
McWilliams Classic hosted by Washington University in St. Louis. On Friday, Dec. 6, the Tigers face off against University of CaliforniaSanta Cruz while Washington University plays Augustana College. Then, on Dec. 7, the winners of the games face off and the losers of the games face off. “Our team has done a great job taking every game one at a time and keeping a
serious mindset about our preparation, which to me is the biggest thing that helps us night in and night out is that we are a really good practice team and we are always prepared for our opponents,” Hill said. The Tigers then have a break and do not play again until Dec. 29 and 30, when they host the Trinity Christmas Classic where they will play Illinois Wesleyan University and George Fox University.
it now because I wonder why I didn’t start following a team sooner, but no one around me really followed soccer intently or it never came up in conversation. I think it’s because soccer is kind of an overlooked sport in America, which is sad. Someone once said there are two universal languages in the world: soccer and food. I would say that’s pretty accurate. Watching the World Cup bred my appreciation and fascination for soccer (and ultimately led to a soccer player infatuation starting in high school and continuing today), so every two summers it would be the Euros and the World Cup. Wherever my family was, that’s what our summers revolved around. So that’s how I became aware of the great French superstar, and that’s why I ultimately chose Arsenal. My newfound appreciation for Arsenal and the EPL made me love soccer even more. Any soccer fanatic will know the feeling that I cannot even describe here— that feeling of absolute happiness, nervousness and excitement when your team enters the stadium, when kick-off starts and when
the first goal is made. It is the same “I could die from happiness/I’m so excited I want to jump and cry” feeling I get when the NBA season starts, when playoffs start, when school starts again and I have pre-season practices for lacrosse. Now I’ve started feeling it for soccer. I started watching every major EPL and UCL game. Freshman year I didn’t have a car or a TV, so every Saturday morning when there was a 6:45 a.m. game, I ran to the YMCA near school, even when it was raining, and even in December when it was extremely cold and I didn’t want to leave my bed. But I always made it. And it was always worth it. Now, I’m one of those people who actually enjoys class, and I took HUMA because I’m obsessed with classical Greek plays and mythology. I don’t know how that translates to me having a less-than-exceptional class attendance record, but I have one…and with my resurged love for soccer, it’s gotten worse, because if there’s a game, I’m not in class (or I am very reluctantly, constantly checking updates on my phone). Since freshman year, I have only become a bigger soccer and Arsenal
nerd. I re-watch old games to see what we did well and what needs improvement. I try to plan my days and class schedule around game time, and thanks to an extremely devout Chelsea fan whom I’ve recently met, who knows everything and also does this practice, I’ve started to watch the international and club under-twenty-one teams to see who the upand-coming players in the league are.
Sports fanaticism: an observation of a crazed EPL fan Staff Column Elif Yucel, Sports Reporter
The first sport I ever loved was basketball. I started following the NBA in 7th grade (Mavs fan, Dallas pride), and, since then, I’ve only allowed two other sports—soccer and lacrosse—close to my heart. You can’t help what you love, what excites you, what makes you nervous and jittery; for me, that’s soccer, basketball and lacrosse. I really enjoy watching baseball, and I actually used to be a pretty big Rangers fan. I’m still a fan, but I don’t follow the league as rigorously as I used to in high school. I’ve started to appreciate and develop an interest in football, but it’s only basketball, soccer and lacrosse that really do it for me, and even then I don’t even follow any lacrosse leagues. I love it because I play the sport. I know, I’m not one of those die-hard-since-birth kind of fans. I really wish I had been one of those types,
so I’m sorry that I don’t know as much history or as many facts as you do, but I am a three-year Arsenal fan and damn proud of it. Since I am a new fan, people always ask me, “How’d you pick Arsenal?” And my answer isn’t a great one: out of my friends who followed the EPL, one was a Chelsea fan and the other was a Manchester United fan, and as incredible as both of those teams are, I wanted to find my own club.
“You can’t help what you love, what excites you, what makes you nervous and jittery.”
And then, of course, there was Thierry Henry. What a legend. I may not have followed any big leagues, but I grew up on the World Cup. My father is a huge soccer fan, so whenever there was any type of game on TV, he would be watching it. My family is Turkish, so he followed Fenerbahçe, but not meticulously. It’s strange when I think about
“Now, I’m one of those kids who actually enjoys class, and I took HUMA because I’m obsessed with classical Greek plays and mythology.”
So I may not have followed my team as long as you have, and I’m not going to be embarrassed by how I picked it, because I absolutely love my team and I love this sport just as much as you do. I am a three-year Arsenal fan and damn proud of it.
DEC.06.2013 26 theTrinitonian
Sports
Trinity men’s basketball splits games at Hoopsville Invitational and splits first two games back in Texas Tigers at 3-4 on the year but start SCAC play with win by Julie Robinson SPORTS REPORTER The Trinity University men’s basketball team had four games over the course of the last two weeks. The first was against Keystone College during the Hoopsville National Invitational Classic Division III Hoops Tournament in Owings Mills, Md. on Friday, Nov. 22. The game ended in a victory for the Tigers, with their highest number of points this year, 82-67. “The Keystone game was completely different for us as a team. We pride ourselves on defense, while Keystone likes to run-and-gun to try and outscore their opponents. It was fun for us to play a very high-tempo game, and we responded very well, winning by a good margin in easily our highest scoring output of the year,” said junior Matt Selling. The following day, the Tigers played Ohio Wesleyan University in a hard-fought game that ended in a tough
loss for the Trinity men, 7564.
“It was fun for us to play a very high tempo game, and we responded very well, winning by a good margin in easily our highest scoring output of the year.” Matt Selling Junior Guard
“Both teams played well offensively,” said head coach Pat Cunningham. “Unfortunately, we came up short as Ohio Wesleyan shot well and played offensively but we weren’t able to keep up.” At halftime, the two teams were tied at 24-24, but the Tigers were down 2015 at the 8:37 mark. Ohio Wesleyan did not score a basket until there were two minutes left in the half, during Trinity’s run. During the second half, however, Ohio Wesleyan
jumped out to a 35-27 lead. The Tigers closed to within one point, 34-35, with two free throws by Robert Kitzinger with 15 minutes on the clock. Trinity pulled to 47-44 on a basket and free throw by Jonathan Wilt at 10:46. But Ohio Wesleyan, who shot 63 percent in the half, went on a run of their own and led by 14 points, 67-53 at the two-minute mark of the game. Wilt led the Tigers with 14 points, going 4-9 from the field and sinking 6-6 free throws. Kitzinger added 12 points (4-4 at the line) and a team-leading seven rebounds. In the win over Keystone, Kitzinger became the 24th player in Trinity history to reach 1,000 career points. His performance against Ohio Wesleyan placed him past Tiger assistant coach Ross Burt ‘06 on the all-time scoring list. The following weekend, the Tiger men played at Mary Hardin-Baylor for a true back-and-forth game, which ended in a loss for Trinity 73-67. “Mary Hardin-Baylor has been an out-of-conference rival for us the past few years. Two years ago in the
NCAA tourney, we beat them, and last year, they beat us in double overtime. This year, it was another close game, but as a team we didn’t play to the best of our abilities. Definitely looking forward to a possible rematch come tournament time,” Selling said.
“Those games were tough tests that will help us down the road at the end of the season.” Josh Ingram First year Forward
In their first conference game and their first home game, the Tigers were able to defeat Southwestern University 55-47. The game was a defensive struggle as both teams combined for one point in the first five-and-ahalf minutes. At halftime, the Tigers were up 21-14. After the Pirates cut the lead to three, the Tigers made a run to go to a 45-34 lead with seven minutes left to seal the game. Kitzinger finished with
a double-double at 21 points and 10 rebounds. The points tied his season high and his rebounds established a new high mark for the year. Selling added 15 points on a perfect 5-5 shooting performance. While the Trinity men’s basketball team is young, they still have much potential for growth, despite some hard losses early in the year. “Those games were tough tests that will help us down the road at the end of the season,” said first year Josh Ingram. Even though the team may not have the record they were hoping for at this point in the season, they have played six out of their seven games away from home. The following two games are also away from home, which can prove to be a difficult challenge for young players who are still figuring themselves out and learning to be part of a team. The Tigers are now in Chicago, Ill, to face off against Albion University today at 5 p.m. Tomorrow, they will take on the University of Chicago at 3 p.m. The Tigers will next play a home game on Tuesday, Dec. 10, against the University of Texas-Dallas at 6 p.m.
theTrinitonian DEC.06.2013
Sports
27
The last year of the BCS era has a surprisingly clear national championship picture...for now Staff Column Aly Mithani, Sports Editor
This college football season represents the end of an era, even if it is a much vilified era in the minds of college football fans. This year will be the last season in which the BCS rankings will be used to determine the participants in the National Championship game. Starting next season, the top four teams in the nation, as determined by a selection committee, will compete in a playoff format for the National Championship. For now, however, we still have to utilize the arcane rankings system to determine who will play in the National Championship game. Going into the conference championship games, the top two teams in the country are the unbeaten Florida State Seminoles and Ohio State Buckeyes. The Auburn Tigers sit at No. 3, but have one loss on the season. In other seasons, there has been considerable controversy centered around
the No. 3 team having a claim to a spot in the championship game, but being denied by the rankings system. In the 2004-2005 season, Auburn was denied a spot in the National Championship game despite having an undefeated record. Instead, the USC Trojans defeated the Oklahoma Sooners 5519. Countless Auburn fans remained confident that their squad would have had a better showing in the championship game. This season, however, both Florida State and Ohio State are undefeated. No other team from one of the major Division I football conferences has an undefeated record. Auburn is the top one-loss team in the country after defeating the two-time defending national champion Alabama Crimson Tide last week. Despite having less of an argument, Auburn fans remain convinced that their team’s strength of schedule should trump Ohio State’s unbeaten record and send Auburn to the National Championship game. In the latest BCS rankings, there is a larger gap between the two unbeaten teams than there is between Ohio State and Auburn.
During the conference championships, No. 1 Florida State plays the No. 20 Duke Blue Devils for the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) title, No. 2 Ohio State plays the No. 10 Michigan State Spartans for the Big Ten Championship, and No. 3 Auburn plays the No. 5 Missouri Tigers for the Southeastern Conference (SEC) title. The SEC is widely considered the toughest conference in college football and many fans are convinced that, should all top three teams win this weekend, Auburn may leapfrog Ohio State for the No. 2 spot. This does not even include the possibility that any of these teams lose their conference championship games. It seems that in its dying breath, the goal of the BCS is to leave us with one last gutwrenching controversy. For Ohio State fans, being left out of the National Championship after being unbeaten for the second season in a row would be devastating. The school was banned from postseason play last season due to sanctions imposed by the NCAA in the wake of a scandal at the school in 2011. For Auburn fans, they do play in the toughest conference
in college football, and they just defeated the two-time defending national champion. Why shouldn’t they get a shot at the national title? Let’s be clear. If Ohio State and Florida State win this weekend, they should play in the BCS National Championship game. There is no fair way to fault a team for winning all of their games when there are only two of them left standing. However, should either or both of these teams fall, the NCAA would have a mess on their hands. Should either one of the two unbeaten teams fall, the SEC Championship game immediately holds National Championship implications. The winner of that game, either Auburn or Missouri, would be the one-loss championship of an extremely tough conference. However, Alabama also sits at one loss, but also has the large majority of the roster that guided them to the last two national championships. In this scenario, if Missouri wins, it would be possible for them to be left out of the National Championship game in favor of a fellow one-loss SEC team, even though Missouri would be the SEC champions.
The real hellish scenario would be if both Florida State and Ohio State suffer upsets. If this happens, the winner of the SEC championship game would definitely have a spot in the National Championship game. Next, a vigorous national debate would begin between a plethora of oneloss teams. Could Florida State or Ohio State stay in the discussion despite suffering season-ending losses? Michigan State also has one loss and will have just defeated the No. 2 team in the country. Alabama will also be at one loss, possibly setting up a giant rivalry rematch with Auburn for a national title. Oklahoma State could also potentially be one-loss Big 12 champions rising to the top of the fray. The only thing that we really know at this point is that a four-team playoff this season would solve a lot of problems. Presumably, the four teams would be the undefeated Florida State and Ohio State teams, a one-loss two-time defending national champion Alabama squad and the winner of the SEC title game. These matchups make fans salivate, but they only need to wait one more year.
DEC.06.2013 28 theTrinitonian
Sports
2002 The last time Trinity women’s soccer reached the NCAA semifinals was in 2002. The team photo courtesy of Miguel Webber
photo by Megan McLoughlin
Top Left: Head Coach Lance Key and junior midfielder Kirby Peddicord share an embrace after Trinity’s 2-1 NCAA quarterfinal victory over Wheaton College on Saturday, Nov. 23. Top Right: Trinity’s cheerleaders support the men’s and women’s basketball teams during their games against Southwestern University on Wednesday, Dec. 4. Bottom: The Trinity women’s soccer team huddles up prior to their Sweet Sixteen game vs. Montclair State University on Friday, Nov. 22
is looking to win their first national title this weekend.
20th Women’s cross country finished in 20th photo courtesy of Miguel Webber
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place at the NCAA Championships.
82 Trinity’s men’s basketball team beat
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output was their highest of the young season thus far.