Whitman College Pioneer - Fall 2009 Issue 1 by Whitman College Wire

Red Light Blue Light, Combo Pack, Dabbles in Bloom, Orange Fight

Campus bands preview

Opinion:

Words of wisdom:

Filling in the blanks: what health care reform means for college students

President George Bridges welcomes new students to Whitman

OPINION, PAGE 12

A&E, PAGE 7

FEATURE, PAGE 10

WHITMAN COLLEGE Walla Walla, WA Volume CXXV / Back to School Edition September 3, 2009

Class of 2013 ‘most diverse’ Incoming first-years start their Whitman careers, set records by JOSH GOODMAN Associate News Editor

First-years Claire Sobetski and Libby Arnosti move into their new dorm rooms in Jewett and Anderson. Sobetski is from Littleton, Colo. and Arnosti is from St. Paul, Minn.

First-year Autumn Knutson was moments away from enrolling in another college when a phone call from a Whitman parent changed her mind. “The moment I walked down my stairs towards the computer, the phone rang,” she said. “It was a Whitman parent who wanted to tell me how Whitman had impacted his two sons that attended this college. Somehow he convinced me enough to set up a day trip within that same week.” That last-minute trip was all it took for Knutson to know Whitman was the right fit for her. Each of the 422 students in the class of 2013 had a slightly different reason for choosing Whitman. According to Director of Admission Kevin Dyerly, the class of 2013 is historic—a higher number of applicants from more diverse backgrounds than ever before. “We had a record 3,437 applications,” said Dyerly. “It’s the most ethnically diverse class…in the history of the college. We also have more first generation college bound students, 13 percent, in the entering class than ever before.” Each student had a different reason for choosing Whitman. “I chose Whitman because it went above and beyond similar schools in one area particularly important to me: the outdoors,” said first-year Matthew Morriss. “Not only does Whitman stress a continued exploration of the outdoors through its classroom work, but also, Whitman provides students with an opportunity to explore the great outdoors.” Isabella Lowery had no trouble listing off her reasons. “Small classes with students who acFIRST-YE ARS, PAGE 2

Whitties

INSIDE

• News

Whitman and Walla Walla brace for potential onset of swine flu epidemic in the community .

• Opinion

How to spend your four years at Whitman— ‘make the most of it and remember almost as much’

• Feature

The inside scoop: Whittie reflects on summer job with College Prowler

• Sports

Completed Sherwood renovations provide luxury, convenience for student athletes

• A&E

Pio Picks: dining out on a student’s budget in Walla Walla’s poor economy

• Humor

New editors welcome students “Back 2 School” and seek more members for their team

VISIT US ONLINE whitmanpioneer.com

twitter.com/whitmanpio

head

Back to School by GALEN BERNARD News Editor

hile first-years begin their college journey, seniors enter the homestretch to a diploma and the rest of the student body resumes their trek, it’s easy to neglect the many aspects of Whitman operations that shape students’ experiences. Whether student or staff, arriving or returning, Whitties likely missed one or more of the summer happenings. Some events, like teenage debaters and dancers swarming the grounds for summer camps, probably won’t affect Whitman life very much, but other developments have a direct or subtle impact. Many of the topics referenced below are issues that News will examine in-depth as the year progresses.

1650

The National Science Foundation awarded two grants to Whitman, totalling $795,000, to purchase a 1,200-pound, $388,000 nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometer and a $407,000 scanning electron microscope. Maxey Hall renovations began, with planned additions of 18 offices, four classrooms and three student lounges. Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer Paul Harvey estimates that the project will be completed by June 2010. Whitman’s Board of Trustees elected three new members—Megan Salzman Medica, of The Plaines, Va., Nancy Serrurier, of Menlo Park, Calif., and David Nierenberg, of Camas, Wash.—to fouryear terms. The Career Center and Community

The weight in pounds of the sculpture commonly known as the “Giant Paperclip” but formally titled “Joined Together, Let No Man Split Asunder”

Service Center became the Student Engagement Center, while Fellowships and Grants services moved down the hall to occupy two former study rooms in Reid. The Princeton Review’s annual collegeselection guide ranked Whitman at #15 in the Happiest Students category, down from #1 at the start of the ’07-’08 school year. Director of Admission Kevin Dyerly notes that simply being on 10 of the top 20 lists boosts Whitman’s visibility. Whitman signed on to participate in the new Yellow Ribbon GI Education Enhancement Program. Through the pro-

gram, Whitman will give over $18,000 per year each to two students with veteran status. The VA then matches this aid. As opportunities for scientific research increase and sources for party costumes decrease, a new school year begins, with students eager to leave their mark by utilizing what Whitman already offers and

Key downtown destinations for students closed: Luscious, 26 Brix and the Blue Mountain Humane Society

Percent of the incoming class from California, second-most represented state

Whitman’s ranking on Forbes’ list of America’s Best Colleges

779

Days in Whitman’s summer College Horizons Program, which offers a college prep workshop students converted to Whitmail

perhaps forming new possibilities where they find something missing.

1 75

First-year general studies class changed from “Core” to “Encounters”

The cost in cents of a one-way Walla Walla bus fare (x3 last years’)

New members of Whitman’s Board of Trustees

422

The boxes of onions sent to new Whitties

the PIONEER

September 3, 2009

News

New students adjust to college life, start class Expectations high for first week from FIRST-YEARS, PAGE 1 tually care, a nice campus and location, plenty of resources and opportunities, and a good community,” she said. With the semester now underway, she and 421 other first-year students are adjusting to college life, from classes to coed bathrooms. “I expect to feel overwhelmed, scared, and lost at times. I expect to have a lot of fun and meet some great people,” said Lowery. “I expect to be challenged right off the bat academically,” Morriss said. “I hope to learn quite a bit about building a routine for school and handling a tough workload, all of which will help

All about the

Class of 2013

me gain the feeling that I am really in school now.” The class of 2013 is already an accomplished group. Three hundred twentysix were involved in community service in high school, 74 were captains or cocaptains of a varsity athletic team, and 34 started a club or organization, from afghans for Afghans to Quidditch Club. They also tout a median GPA of 3.84 and a score of 2000 on their SATs. With such a background, the Class of 2013 is certain to become a group of leaders integral to the Whitman community. They’ve already become one thing: Whitties.

I hope to learn quite a bit about building a routine for school and handling a tough work-load, all of which will help gain the feeling that I am really in school now. Mathew Morris ‘13

INTERNATIONAL PACIFIC ISLANDER NATIVE AMERICAN HISPANIC/ LATINO

Accomplishments Completed photojournalism projects around the world. Raised funds for and taught in a Burmese Orphanage Surviving Cancer A 2012 Archery Olympic hopeful Organized a seven week trip through New Zealand, working on organic farms around the country Won an essay contest for NACAC Summited Denali Marathon runner Very successful triathlete Awareness and activism surrounding a paper company’s mistreatment of the environment and its workers in Latin America Volunteered at a summer camp for Siberian orphans Interned for MacWorld magazine as a product tester.

ASIAN

CAUCASIAN

AFRICAN-AMERICAN

FEMALE MALE

Statistics:

Top States:

74 (17%) were captain or co-captain of a varsity athletic team 34 (8%) founded a club, including: Fly Fishing Club, Model UN, Quidditch club, Spanish Culture Club, Interact Club, Afghans for Afghans, Pink Ribbon Club, Student Anti-Genocide Coalition, Outdoor Club, Environmental Club, Frisbee Golf Club 25 (6%) were editor or co-editor of their high school newspaper or yearbook 14 (3%) were ASB or class president 8 men and 5 women (3%) earned their Eagle Scout recognition or Girl Scout Gold Award

Washington, 159 students, 38 percent California, 79 students, 19 percent Oregon, 55 students, 13 percent (tie) Colorado, 12 students, 3 percent 4) (tie) Minnesota, 12 students, 3 percent 6) Idaho, 11 students, 3 percent 7) Alaska, 9 students, 2 percent 8) New York, 8 students, 2 percent 9) (tie) Texas, 7 students, 2 percent 9) (tie) Wisconsin, 7 students, 2 percent

DID YOU KNOW • Aniatetum iure feu facin ute et utpatuerc • Lure feu facin ute et utpatuercing elisi blan venim zzril in utat, quat. • Feu facinWis nos aut alisit • Wis nos aut

NEWS

September 3, 2009 Jacobson

College administrators prepare the campus for potential spread of swine flu in student population; students with flu-like symptoms asked to visit health center.

Administration preps for fall swine flu risks by JOSH GOODMAN Associate News Editor With the start of the school year and the continuing spread of H1N1 influenza, also known as swine flu, Whitman’s administration is urging students to take steps to prevent the spread of the virus. Students should “wash hands frequently or [use] hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol [and] avoid

touching [their] face with hands,” urged Tracee Anderson, Chair of the Whitman College Pandemic Planning Team. These recommendations come on the heels of H1N1’s arrival to Walla Walla in June and forecasts from the Centers for Disease Control and World Health Organization predict-

ing that up to 40 percent of the world population will become infected during the next two years. Those who become sick will have additional steps to take to prevent the spread of H1N1. “More than ever, it is critical that we stay home from work and/or do not attend class or participate in group

3 activities if we are sick,” Dean of Students Chuck Cleveland, also a member of the Pandemic Planning Team, wrote in an e-mail to all students. According to an online survey, Whitman students seem to be getting the message. “I’ll go into the health center if I get sick so they can check me out,” said senior Kelsi Evans, who also professed to washing her hands more and to being more aware of sick people around her. That, in addition to staying isolated, is exactly what students should do when sick with flu-like symptoms, according to Anderson. “Students and staff have been advised to seek medical attention if they do become ill, [and] stay isolated for 24 hours after their fever [or] symptoms have passed,” she said. Anderson also underlined that those who are sick should wear a mask, minimize contact with objects used by others, such as doorknobs, and stay at least six feet away from other people. While students across campus understand some of steps they can take to reduce the odds of infection, they have mixed reactions to the college’s response, which includes e-mails on how to stay protected and the assembly of kits to prevent transmission for students who become ill. “It seems a bit overdone, especially having Scramble leaders take masks on trips to quarantine people with flu-like symptoms,” said first-year Rachel Alexander. “It’s crazy how many people die every day from preventable illnesses like malaria in developing countries. No one seems to care, but when a slightly more virulent strain of the flu comes to a developed country, everybody panics.” “It’s good they’re being careful,” added first-year Ethan Maier. “But their response seems to have been

based on trying to frighten us into action, which I believe is rather low brow.” First-year Tyler King had a better impression. “It has been adequate,” he said of the College’s response. “They have addressed the problem without stoking the coals of apocalyptic fear that seem to spread as fast as the disease itself. That balance is tricky, so I applaud their efforts.” Down the road, students are positioned to get the H1N1 vaccination. “The Walla Walla Department of Health will be given one percent of the vaccine allotted to the state of Washington in the initial distribution that is predicted in late October,” said Anderson. “The current plan is that Whitman will receive an on-going allotment of the vaccine from the county Department of Health.” So far, the College’s efforts to prevent the spread of H1N1 to students have not seriously affected operations. Summer trips to Mexico, Ecuador, and Sweden—countries where H1N1 is widespread—went ahead as planned, according to the Off-Campus Studies Office. Still, health staff are urging students to take H1N1 seriously, and to do all they can to prevent its spread. “I cannot emphasize strongly enough the importance of students taking responsibility to isolate themselves and see their health care provider if they suspect they are ill with the flu,” Anderson said. “We know that H1N1 will spread in Walla Walla. We cannot prevent its spread entirely, but we can minimize its impact by taking steps to protect ourselves and others during this volatile situation.” So take out the hand sanitizer, get a vaccine, and hope that H1N1 stays away.

Upcoming campus events Now through Sunday, Sept. 6

Friday, Sept. 4

Saturday, Sept. 5

Walla Walla County Fair

Coffeehouse

SCVNGR Hunt

Walla Walla County Fairgrounds

Reid Coffeehouse – 9-11 p.m.

Reid Side Lawn – 2-3:30 p.m.

Hours Vary

Enjoy music from Portland band

Receive clues and send answers via

Livestock, Frontier Days, and

Point Juncture, WA at the first Cof-

text message for this unique scav-

cooking contests are among the

feehouse of the year

enger hunt

displays at this annual tradition Saturday, Sept. 5 and Sunday,

Saturday, Sept. 5

Thursday, Sept. 3

Sept. 6

B’nai Mitzvah Party

Pioneer Release Party

Walla Walla Valley Farmer’s Market

Reid Ballroom – 10 p.m.-1 a.m.

Reid Side Lawn – 4-6 p.m. Join the Pioneer staff and bands

Main Street – 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

this event open to the whole Whit-

such as Red Light Blue Light to cel-

Find fresh local produce, artisan

man community

ebrate the Back to School Issue

baked goods, and art while listen-

Party like you turned 13 again at

ing to live music

Tuesday, Sept. 8

Fulbright Information Session

Saturday, Sept. 5

Annual Fair for Off-Campus Study Programs

Frontier Days Parade

Reid Ballroom – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Reid G02 4-5 p.m.

Main and Alder Streets – 10 a.m.

Get more information about study-

Learn more about becoming a Ful-

Start

ing in places ranging from Spain to

bright Scholar

Walla Walla County Fair and Fron-

New Zealand

Friday, Sept. 4

tier Days participants will be front and center in this downtown pa-

-- Josh Goodman

rade

the Pioneer Editor-in-Chief: Kim Sommers Executive Editor: Gillian Frew Director of Content: Andy Jobanek Managing Editor: Margaux Cameron Art Director: Rebecca Fish

editors production

News Editor: Galen Bernard Associate News Editor: Josh Goodman A&E Editor: Connor Guy Sports Editor: Melissa Navarro Feature Editor: Hanna Ory Opinions Editor: Gabriela Salvidea Humor Editor: Alex Kerr Photography Editor: Simon van Neste Illustration Editor: Tricia Vanderbilt

reporters

Maggie Allen, CJ Wisler

columnists

Russ Caditz-Peck, Lisa Curtis, Gary Wang, Derek Thurber, Matt Manley, Alethea Buchal Reviewers: Andrew Hall, Becquer Medak-Seguin

Senior Production Associate: Quinn Taylor Production Associates:Tessa Matson, Alyssa Fairbanks Copy Editors: Sara Rasmussen, Kirsten Larson Web Manager: Andrew Spittle

photography Isabel Hong, David Jacobson illustration Sam Alden, Kelly Douglas

business

Payroll Manager: Jordan Estes Advertising Associate: Shellin Tran, David Mae

Sustaining Whitman by ELENA GUSTAFSON Contributing Reporter It’s that time of year when new students arrive at their school, eager to start classes and make sure that campus is the right fit for them. Between college Web sites and publications, outside rating companies and word-of-mouth, firstyears hope they’ve found a place that matches their academic, social and aesthetic needs. Now you can add “green needs” to that list. In the past few years, campus sustainability credentials have taken a front role in university advertisements and students decisions. Several ranking systems have emerged to rate colleges in areas of green compliance, such as the Sustainable Endowment Institute’s “Green Report Card.” For the past two years, the Princeton Review has included a “Green Rating” in their college information books. The Review created this rating after 63% of college applicants said that a college’s commitment to the environment would impact their ultimate school choice. Developed with ecoAmerica, the rating is based on three broad areas: how environmentally responsible school policies are; how healthy and sustainable the quality of campus life is; and how well the school prepares students to make responsible and sustainable decisions after college. Whitman has a tradition of environmental responsibility, promoted by the list of environmental principles and standards that many new students probably scanned at some time on the website. And in the past few years, Whitman has taken several big steps forward in their commitment to sustainability. Based on student interest and following other colleges’ lead, Whitman developed a part-time student Sustainability Coordinator position that debuted last fall. The position was created to provide a point person between students, staff and faculty. The Coordinator’s main task is to provide the information and resources that those working for sustainability on campus need to succeed. The Sustainability Coordinator currently reports to Jed Schwendiman, Chair of the Conservation Committee and associate to the President. Junior Karlis Rokpelnis was the first sustainability coordinator. He was involved in three significant green developments last year: the installation of the solar panels on the Bratton Tennis Center, completion of the greenhouse gas audit, and the GoPrint system. Rokpelnis is “particularly proud of the team [of students] that worked on the greenhouse gas audit…the audit is a significant first step in understanding the College’s environmental impact in a detailed and accountable way.” Rokpelnis believes the solar panels highlight Whitman’s commitment to the environment and that GoPrint shows that real-time feedback systems can reduce resource use significantly. Feedback systems for dorm energy and water use have been proposed by students but have yet to be implemented. Senior Lisa Curtis takes over the position this fall. A leading member of student climate activism the past few years, Curtis is looking forward to becoming a

link between students and faculty. She hopes to use the position to get students involved in community sustainability issues off campus as well. Though excited about the position, Curtis is also nervous about the greenhouse gas audit done last spring. “It is pretty controversial (in audits) as to what gets counted and what doesn’t. We want an audit that adds to our baseline knowledge and is used to create our next steps,” she said. Curtis believes that Whitman can develop a better sense in graduating students of “what they can do to ensure a more sustainable future…having experienced a culture of sustainability on campus.” Both Rokpelnis and Curtis believe that the ultimate goal is to have a fulltime sustainability coordinator position. “Whitman is ahead of the game, but not as far as we could be,” Curtis said, “there are a lot of other colleges that have done more things to commit themselves to sustainability, but our administration is very open to student initiatives.” Based on various rankings, Whitman’s performance is about smack in the middle. “Whitman students and employees have a lot of enthusiasm for sustainability, but the environmental efforts have often been unplanned and sporadic,” said Rokpelnis. Curtis and Rokpelnis hope the continuity of the coordinator position and the links they create between factions on campus will go a long way towards more effective student and school environmental action. Students are excited about this position as well. Senior Tyler Harvey helped Rokpelnis create the new Sustainability Wiki last fall, which highlights campus commitments and is a space for student groups to share their accomplishments. “[The Wiki} is pretty much the most exciting development in green information sharing that’s happened while I’ve been here” said Harvey. Senior Camila Thorndike, was copresident of Campus Climate Challenge last semester. “Having been a part of a group (CCC) that pushed for this position, it is very exciting to see the creation of this viable role that provides such a great bridge into the administration, and hopefully the coordinator can help streamline our sustainability efforts.” Thorndike was a student representative on the hiring committee for the coordinator position the past two years and has interviewed Rokpelnis, Curtis and all the other applicants. “I hope to see the position expand to a full-time and more established and far-reaching position, on campus and in the community,” Thorndike added. Students interested in joining student sustainability action on campus and wanting to know where to start can attend the Green Meeting this Friday, September 4th, at 12 pm in Reid 207. The meeting will cover the different environmental groups on campus and the general plans for this year to inform students about initiatives they can join to push Whitman’s sustainability commitments over the next few years. Students can access the Wiki and find out more about campus sustainability efforts at: www.whitman.edu/sustainability.

NEWS

September 3, 2009

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September 3, 2009

Summer flicks by BECQUER MEDAK-SEGUIN Movie Reviewer For cineastes like myself, summers are an enigmatic haystack, ripe with farcical blockbusters and quixotic art house films that frequently leave our voracious movie appetites longing for something so simple, so believable and so modest that the product cannot, by any stretch of the imagination, resemble a movie. Enduring some five months of movies ranging the gamut from a Burtonesque (soon-to-be Selickesque) stop-motion adaptation of a twisted children’s one-part-fantasy-twoparts-horror novel to the fourth, but perhaps not the most Ludacris, installment of the chromed-out, nitrous oxide- injected “The Fast and the Furious” franchise, summers are the time for movies that show us that the repository of reality is enough from which to construct some sort of transportive meaning. Last summer, “The Visitor,” Thomas McCarthy’s real-life gem about a middleaged professor whose life suddenly turns on its head after meeting an illegal immigrant couple, was the lucid needle in the rick. The unornamented, slice-of-life drama managed to study the delicate nature of human emotions without mollycoddling the audience, without holding the audience’s hand every time the plot took a step forward. The film was so successful in doing just that (“showing” what most movies “tell”) that the Academy nominated Richard Jenkins for Best Actor in a culture where summer films traditionally go unnoticed by the Academy come February. This summer has been generous—indeed philanthropic—to fans of both Hollywood cookie-cutters and art house idiosyncrasies. The former have been courted by the likes of “Star Trek,” “Up,” “Public Enemies,” “District 9” and “Julie & Julia”: all better-than-average summer blockbusters that found their niches among the mercurial general American movie-going constituency. The latter have been wooed by an unusually long group of films, including “The Hurt Locker,” “Goodbye Solo,” “Lorna’s Silence,” “Tulpan” and “The Cove”: an amazing turnout—including some fresh, young talent—for an artistic demographic that finds itself increasingly marginalized because of the current economic crisis. My predilection for Italian neorealism and its contemporary renaissance, which A. O. Scott of The New York Times has called “neo-neo realism,” has cultivated my appreciation for directors, especially those who write their own scripts. Great actors possess a creative genius of interpretation, whereas great directors, more importantly, possess a creative genius of creation. Because of the Academy’s subterranean bias toward end-of-the-year release dates, most great directors, including Quentin Tarantino, Ang Lee, Francis Ford Coppola and Steven Soderbergh, usually hold off until then to release their films. This summer’s cinematic hors d’oeuvres, however, prove that the age of great directors releasing their films in the summer, after going almost completely AWOL for a few years, is back. All three aforementioned directors released their films—”Inglourious Basterds,” “Taking Woodstock,” “Tetro” and “The Girlfriend Experience,” respectively—this summer, and many more directors of similar category followed suit. And, then, there are those directors whom few have ever heard of. They, too, released their films this summer: Ramin Bahrani (“Goodbye Solo”), the Dardenne brothers (“Lorna’s Silence”), Kathryn Bigelow (“The Hurt Locker”), and Hayao Miyazaki (“Ponyo”). Consequently, selecting a group of this summer’s best films—and, thus, directors—feels like drinking most, but not all, of a glass of chocolate milk. The most succulent chocolate is typically not that which saturates the milk, but that which settles at the bottom of the glass. I could say that “Inglourious Basterds” seamlessly picked up where “Kill Bill” left off and that Tarantino has, once again, mixed genres, written impossible characters and poked fun at our hemophobic society. I could also say that Bigelow has proven that silence, rather than gratuitous explosions and improbable shootouts, creates the most compelling tension and affords great war films their visceral importance with audiences. Or I could say that “Goodbye Solo” (and Bahrani’s previous films “Chop Shop” and “Man Push Cart”) makes us aware of the subtleties of life: the improbable circumstances that bring disparate people together, the timeliness of their interactions, the life trajectories that lead them apart, and the implications thereof. But I will not. This was the summer of the auteur and, thus, the winner is the audience.

the PIONEER

A E

Out on the town The Pioneer’s guide to Walla Walla’s reduced restaurant scene by CJ WISLER Staff Reporter & JOCELYN RICHARD Contributing Reporter Students returning to Whitman this past week faced a particularly bittersweet homecoming: Though greeted by the newly polished façade of Sherwood Center, they arrived in a city still mourning the loss of many popular restaurants and pubs. Local eateries Luscious by Nature, Destination Grill, 26 Brix, Pine Street Grill and Caravaggio all failed to survive last semester’s credit meltdown. Consecutive harsh winters and debt-restructuring problems also contributed to the recent string of restaurant closures in Walla Walla. A few small business owners believe the problem stems beyond the financial crisis—according to Shawn Chriest, owner of Destination Grill, the failure of many restaurants to outwear the recession can be attributed to local residents’ preference for corporate food chains over family-owned establishments. “What’s happening here in Walla Walla [is] we bring our dreams here and invest in this area and then the local people invest in corporate restaurants,” Chriest said in a statement to the Union-Bulletin. Hopefully, residents will embrace the handful of recently opened restaurants endeavoring to outlive their predecessors. Capitalizing on low rent, the Walla Walla Bread Company and Jacobi Café both moved into empty buildings last month. Later this fall, The Pita Pit is scheduled to take over Luscious’ former digs, while the Red Monkey will premier as Walla Walla’s first light night bar. In the meantime, a number of students’ favorite spots are still open for business.

Golden Horse WallaWalla.org is quick to extol the rare charm of the city’s food and beverage industry: “Adding to the enjoyment of a trip is finding unique dining experiences. The Walla Walla Valley will afford you that opportunity with options to please every palate.” One such unique dining experience is the Golden Horse, which affords you the opportunity to please your palate with a variety of meat substitute dishes (the substitute chicken is delicious). Diners with more adventurous palates often return on the weekends, disappearing into the gold-and-red-accented recesses of the karaoke bar. Because karaoke often needs beer to achieve its full potential, you must be 21 years old to participate. 628 W. Main St.

The Green Jocelyn once had a professor who refused to make known the name of the bar he frequented once a week with the aim of hanging out with other professors and grading papers in front of other professors. Spoiler: It was the Green Lantern on Thursday nights. Conveniently located within walking distance from Fraternity Row, The Green boasts a worthy selection of microbeers from the Pacific Northwest and an even worthier selection of fish tacos, as well as a full menu of greasy foods and mixed drinks. Televisions, pool tables, darts and a beer garden create a low-key party atmosphere that is perfect for grading papers. All beer-and-taco epicures must be 21—no exceptions. 1606 E. Isaacs Ave.

Mr. Ed’s While the Green Lantern enjoys a generous burger menu, that is all in the spirit of grading papers. If you want to eat at a place that enjoys a thorough burger menu all in the spirit of eating burgers, Mr. Ed’s is the place for you. The burgers at this ’50s-era diner-style restaurant are notoriously gigantic—about the diameter of a 45 rpm record—and are reasonably priced. Ed’s “home-made” menu also offers a variety of fried steak and chicken items as well as patty melts, soups and breakfast foods. Breakfast is available all day long; daily lunch and dinner specials are popular with students and families looking to dine on a budget. 2555 E. Isaacs Ave.

Ice-Burg For those Californians suffering from acute In-N-Out withdrawal, the twenty-minute walk to Ice-Burg Drive-In is well worth the time and effort. Like Mr. Ed’s, Ice-Burg recreates the 1950s diner experience, offering both drive-in and outdoor dining options. All items on the menu—which offers a generous selection of burgers, fries and milkshakes—are made to order; pick-up is also available for those desiring to avoid the usual long lines. 616 W. Birch St.

La Monarca Taco Truck SAFFRON. Saffron Mediterranean Kitchen combines traditional dishes of lamb, quail and flatbread with American favorites, all made from local, organic ingredients. With entree prices ranging from the low to upper 20s, this restaurant is best for those who appreciate fine dining. The menu does not appear vegetarian-friendly, but the helpful staff is accommodating to special requests.

125 W. Alder

Operated by the Taqueria Yungapeti restaurant on Ninth Street, La Monarco is Walla Walla’s premier taco truck, a fleeting but consistently delicious provider of burritos, fajitas, horchata and other Latin American foods. La Monarca appears and disappears at random, sometimes resurrecting at campus events and sports tournaments. If you’re lucky, you might be able sneak up on the truck at its daytime resting place in front of John Wheatland Bakery. Recommended: the burrito asada and Walla Walla chicken burrito. 1828 E. Isaacs Ave.

Clarette’s Nestled between Baker Ferguson Fitness Center and College House, Clarette’s is a popular weekend brunch spot for both locals and upperclassmen looking to recreate their halcyon meal-plan days. In addition to its large lunch and dinner menu, the country-style restaurant offers an extensive selection of breakfast foods all day long, including its infamous pumpkin pancakes and excellent seasonal fruit dishes. Clarette’s staff has thoughtfully set aside an area for families, thus permitting students to dine without the distraction of screaming children. 15 S. Touchet St.

Sweet Basil Pizzeria

A popular restaurant amongst both Whitman students and the Walla Walla community, this locally-owned business serves fresh pizzas (both New York style and their 18” signature style), calzones and a variety of wines. Prices are affordable at $5 for two slices, and service is prompt and friendly. Some of the favorite regular signature pizzas include the Pesto Pizza, which includes garlic, mushrooms, olives and artichoke hearts; the Margherita, which includes garlic, basil and tomatoes; and the Italiano, which includes spicy Italian sausage, onions, tomatoes, fresh garlic and parmesan. Daily specials are also available. The location is very close—right down the street from Coffee Perk (on 5 S. First Ave.)—but it is often busy at dinner, so it is best to go at lunch if you want quick service. 5 S. First Ave.

Van neste

Merchants Delicatessen

If you want fancy bread, cheese and soup without feeling the need to dress up, this is the perfect place to go. Offering a variety of fresh breads from the French Bakery, as well as cookies, pastries, cakes and muffins, the actual delicatessen also offers good breakfast and even better lunch foods. On Wednesdays, Merchants hosts a spaghetti night and stays open extra late to serve their pasta with marinara, meat and butter-mizithra sauces. The hoagies are especially delicious and popular. Merchants also offers a variety of wine and cheese, perfect if you want to host a tasting party at your house. Sometimes service is a bit slow (and occasionally the servers or cashiers can be a bit brusque), so it is best to go during less busy hours (around 2 or 3 p.m.). The hours are also—like many small shops and restaurants in Walla Walla—changeable throughout the week. With its mini grocery store of gourmet apparel and its sit-down delicatessen, Merchants offers a decent price for the quality of food. 21 E. Main St.

Aloha Sushi

If you’re interested in consuming a meal and have an extra few bucks to spend, Aloha Sushi is an excellent place to go. You can’t beat the location (right next to Sweet Basil), especially if your palette is longing for something more than noodles and pizza. Aloha Sushi offers a few soups, salads and teriyaki for those less daring, and the run-of-the mill long rolls including California, caterpillar, and Philadelphia rolls. It also offers quite a few vegetarian options, including a salad roll, veggie roll and miso soup. The price is more expensive than Sweet Basil (between $10 and $12 for the long rolls), but not unusually so for a sushi restaurant. Plus, $1 sake bombs are available on Monday Guys’ Night Out (men only) and Wednesday Ladies’ Night Out (women only). 7 1/2 S. First Ave.

Van neste BRIGHTS’ CANDIES. Satisfy your sweet tooth at this candy shop, centrally located on Main Street. Whether you’re strolling with a sweetheart for a double scoop of huckleberry ice cream, picking up some fudge for your mother or snacking on a cheese-caramel popcorn combination, you will find something sure to please your taste buds.

11 E. Main St.

Onionworld

If you’re hungry on the way to Coffee Perk but do not want to wait in line at Sweet Basil, Onionworld is a nice change. The revised menu offers few new items, but the main attraction is still the Walla Walla Sweet Onion Sausage—a delicious and filling local treat. A single sausage is $5, but well worth the cost. Onionworld also offers a sauerkraut bowl (the original sweet onion sausage cut into small pieces and put into a sauerkraut portion) as well as their award-winning white bean and sausage chili. Onionworld offers a vegetarian option to the chili (but no sweet onion tofudogs, sorry) as well as lemonade, iced tea, and Arnold Palmer. Onionworld is an affordable way to eat out within walking distance of campus. Plus, it is one of the few Walla Walla restaurants open for lunch seven days a week. 2 S. First Ave. #100.

A&E

September 3, 2009

PIO PICKS Art Walk Walla Walla The first Friday of every month, including Sept. 4, 31 art businesses around Walla Walla extend their hours, allowing art enthusiasts to stroll from venue to venue until 8 p.m. Check out the new exhibit at the Kirkman House Museum on 19th- and 20th-century toys and the zany Museum of Unnatural History, among many others. A full list of participating venues and locations is available on the Web site, artwalkwallawalla.com. Sept. 4, 5-8 p.m.

B’nai Mitzvah Party Hillel-Shalom (affectionately known as Whitman’s Jew club) hosts a night of dancing and middle school-era music in Reid Ballroom to kick off the school year. The Facebook event page makes the tantalizing suggestion that limbo and “the hugging game” may make

appearances. Over one hundred confirmed guests ensure that the party will, indeed, be rockin’. Sept. 5, 10 p.m.-1 a.m.

German Folk Dancing at the Odd Fellows Home You may never have guessed it, but every Monday, just a skip down the block from campus, the Odd Fellows Home comes alive with traditional German dancing. But what if I’ve never danced before? What if I just like to speak with a fake German accent? It’s alright; they do lessons too, for the low, low price of free. That’s not to say, however, that those with mad skillz will be discouraged from strutting their stuff. Odd Fellows Homes Community Room, 534 Boyer Ave. For more information, call 509-522-3412.

Instant Play Festival revived by CJ WISLER Staff Reporter

Van neste Student actors put an unconventional twist on Shakespeare’s rarely-performed tragedy.

Shake Up the end of summer with Shakespeare’s ‘Timon of Athens’ by CJ WISLER Staff Reporter Picture a world full of social decay, inlaid with corrupt people, violence, war and hedonism—a world where the most benevolent and philanthropic of people turn away in disgust at the nature of this society and perhaps the nature of humanity itself. This picture is the basis of this year’s Summer Shakes, the littleknown tragedy “Timon of Athens.” Summer Shakes, a recurring summer program at Whitman, is a studentdirected, acted and produced program that brings interested Whitman students back to school two weeks before the official start of the year to rehearse a Shakespearian play. They perform the play during the first week of school in the Amphitheater. This year, senior Ian Jagel took the reins as director of the play, focusing on understanding and interpreting the text as well as finding the essence or “kernel of truth” in the play. “I want to direct as a career, and the slot was open so I decided to take it on,”

said Jagel. “It’s a rarely performed piece, but it’s a real gem of a story, really. It asks fundamental questions about the nature of man with a frankness and honesty. A lot of Shakespeare plays approach that, but ‘Timon [of Athens]’ is quite unique in its approach.” One of Jagel’s most surprising interpretative decisions—one that introduces a different dynamic between the characters and adds new elements to the play—involved giving Timon’s role, a masculine role, to a woman. “I wanted to give the role of Timon to a woman because the original play is so saturated with men…making Timon a woman in a world of men adds a level of sexual tension to the play once the circumstance of the character changed,” said Jagel. Sophomore Justis Phillips, who is taking on the role of Timon, jumped at the opportunity to play the title character. “It has been a big learning experience for me, since I’m relatively new to Shake-

speare,” said Phillips. “It is intimidating to be in such a large role, but it’s been so comfortable to learn the language and style amongst my peers. It means a lot to be supported and given this opportunity in such a casual and loving setting.” The changing of the title character’s gender also intrigued Phillips. “[Timon] is more vulnerable now instead of merely philanthropic. It shows her growing and living through so many different losses, financially, socially and emotionally. It adds to the drama of her demise.” “Timon of Athens” will be performed Thursday, Sept. 3, at 5 p.m. at the Ampitheater (located between Maxey and Lyman Hall). Students are welcome to come, bring a snack and enjoy the free play. And according to Phillips, Timon being a woman is just one of the smaller twists. “It’s going to be really fun,” she said.

Despite a turbulent year for the arts across the country and budget cuts here at Whitman, the theater department has brought back the Instant Play Festival, a successful program started last year that teaches students about the playwriting process. The festival, proposed and designed by Associate Professor of Theatre Chris Petit, includes a three-week series of workshops in which student writers learn about and practice playwriting under the guide of guest playwrights. This culminates into two performance events that introduce the young writers’ new plays—all written the night before and rehearsed and organized the day of the performances. “It makes for great theater,” said Petit. “When you’re forced, because of time restraints, to follow your initial instincts fully, often what emerges is a deeper sense of creativity and imagination than what might happen with more time to censor those impulses. It is a wonderful lesson for young artists and extremely useful for their development.” Although the college budget cuts reduced the theater department’s guest artist endowment, Theatre Department Director and Garrett Professor of Dramatic Art Nancy Simon ensured that they “are all very careful with…expenditures” in order to bring back their programs, including the Instant Play Festival. “This year we will reduce all production budgets by 7 percent and bring in fewer guest artists,” said Simon. “Because we are unable to offer playwriting in our curriculum, we felt it was vital to maintain the funds for visiting playwrights from our guest artist budget.” The positive response, packed audi-

torium, department and community interest and available budget also helped ensure the return of the festival. “The program came back because of last year’s success and our desire to expand the department’s curriculum by offering the writing workshops,” said Petit. “The program is part of the Harper Joy Theater season and is paid for by that operating budget.” Although the festival is one of “minimal” expenditure, according to Simon, the budget used goes mostly towards bringing in guest playwrights. This year, 13 Whitman student writers will learn under the tutelage of three playwrights: returning playwright from last year’s festival Kristen Kosmas, and new faces Adama Rapp and Sheri Wilner. Each professional playwright will introduce the student writers to the playwriting world, as well as present various techniques, structures, forms, approaches to writing and prompts. While the basic structure of the festival is the same as last year’s, Petit hopes that the intrigue of a lively, energetic and instantaneous event will draw campus members to Harper Joy. “Last year I had many people come up to me after the performance and say that they have been part of the Whitman community for years but have never stepped into the Harper Joy Theater until the festival. I think the festival helps to bring people out to the theater and keeps Harper Joy at the center of our community.” The Instant Play Festival runs Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 26 and 27, on the Alexander stage. Students wishing to be involved in the performance will be able to sign up the week prior to the event.

B and review he ad

The Fiery Furnaces – I’m Going Away (2009; Thrill Jockey) by ANDREW HALL Music Reviewer The Fiery Furnaces—the New Yorkbased duo of Matt and Eleanor Friedberger—has made a name for itself by being, more than anything else, increasingly weird and exhaustingly prolific. By the end of this decade, the band will have (since 2003) released six full-length albums, a double-live album, an EP long enough to be an album in any other band’s opinion and two solo albums to their name, as well as a threatened silent album (to possibly be released exclusively as sheet music later this year). Until 2007, this was mostly a good thing. “Widow City,” released that year, was a strangely muted, by-numbers affair with few moments that developed their sprawling, labyrinthine pop. Instead of being polarizing, like their grandmother-narrated “Rehearsing My Choir” or “Blueberry Boat,” where Matt Friedberger’s story-songs sported violent shifts in style and structure often within seconds of each other, “Widow City” struggled uncomfortably between a straightforward pop album and something stranger, never taking a successful hold as either. On “I’m Going Away,” the band reins

in their eccentricities; these songs sport simpler arrangements, Eleanor’s lyrics are predominantly fairly straightforward, albeit detailed breakup narratives, and the moments of weirdness almost never swallow songs whole as they have many times in the past. In essence, it’s the Fiery Furnaces album that sounds the least like the Fiery Furnaces, and predominantly through repetition and often striking songwriting they pull it off. Whereas the band’s most out-there records ran well over an hour and often veered close to rock opera territory, this one barely breaks the 45-minute mark and its songs are remarkably concise, with most ranging from three to four minutes and relying on more conventional pop structures, with clearly defined verse-chorus assembly and moments of abrasion often reduced to obligatory guitar solos. “The End is Near,” the album’s first single, is driven by a few piano parts and back-and-forth vocals between the Friedbergers as the verse’s insistent melody takes hold. “Even in the Rain” uses the same basic trick and its melody goes from pleasant to annoying to relentlessly catchy by the time the chorus repeats it for the umpteenth time.

Lyrically, the record is certainly dense and wordy, but rather than lengthy narratives about pirates, lost dogs that find religion, curses, or missionaries that use ghosts to translate from Japanese to English, these songs are much faster and more immediate. “Drive to Dallas” has verses about getting caught in speedtraps and being unable to see out of a rear view mirror, but the sentiment repeated so many times is “if I see you tomorrow I don’t know what I will do,” and that’s a whole lot easier to digest on a first listen. “Keep Me In The Dark” gives the chorus entirely to its title, rather than everything surrounding it. There’s still moments of more immediate craziness—the chorus of “Staring at the Steeple” is about two women preachers, one who “keeps time while the other keeps a pistol”—but rarely do they get to dominate the band’s songs like they would have earlier. Strangely, “I’m Going Away” seems like a logical progression from the band’s first record, “Gallowsbird’s Bark,” which initially got them lumped in with other blues-rock revivalist duos like the Black Keys and the White Stripes. As a conclusion to half a decade of some of the most eccentric pop to ever find an accepting audience, it’s almost as baffling as the material that precedes it. Whatever it is,

it’s unlikely that it’ll be a defining moment for the band—that is and likely will be the explosive “Blueberry Boat” and its psychotic all-medley live arrangement— but it’s a welcome progression for a band that had lost me and proof that they haven’t gone off the deep end entirely,

though I’m not entirely certain. We’ll have to see if they make good on the threatened silent album before closing the book on that matter.

A&E

September 3, 2009

T he Pioneer

Campus Bands

Preview

by CONNOR GUY A&E Editor

When ASWC brings major bands and artists to campus each semester, they are oases in a desert of musical entertainment, serenading us or sparking a wild night of dancing. In recent years, we’ve heard the likes of the Blue Scholars, Girl Talk, Guster and Flogging Molly. But what about the rest of the time? What about the vast majority of Friday and Saturday nights, when our college can’t afford to fly in famous performers? Fortunately for us, the well-rounded Whitman student body fosters homegrown musical talent, resulting in a wide variety of student-organized bands. Today, we bring you a short glimpse of what seven of them have planned for the semester.

Combo Pack This group of fun-loving sophomores met last year when they were all (except one) living in the Lyman Tower, and got its start at open mic nights. “We’re all pretty much best friends,” said sophomore Chrissy Delicata, the group’s rapper. Working with instruments like Ukulele and Accordion, they cover songs from the pop and rap genres, ranging from TPain’s “Buy You A Drank” to Soulja Boy’s “Kiss Me Through The Phone.” “Our accordion player, Hannah [Joseph], just bought her accordion on eBay last year, so she’s totally self-taught,” said Delicata. “And Annie [Truscott], our violinist, is classically trained, so she’s just incredibly talented.” For that reason, Truscott will most likely lead the artistic thrust as the band prepares to pursue its goal of composing original songs this year.

Red Light Blue Light This year, Whitman’s premier rock/ bluesy/soul/reggae band is aiming for the stars, or, to be more precise, Walla Walla’s fine music venues. After finding success at various house parties last year and opening for Grand Old Party during their appearance at Whitman, the group is now setting its sights on the Walla Walla scene. “It’s been mostly campus gigs for us so far, but this year, we’re trying to play some bars in town; just for playing a few hours, you can make like 100 bucks a person,” said rhythm guitarist senior Dan Oschrin. The band, led by the guitar duo of Oschrin and junior Charlie Procknow, is looking forward to spreading their guitar-oriented music and collaborating with new members such as drummer sophomore Matt Logan, who spent the summer competing with his drum corps group, and saxophonist junior Ian Coleman, who’s been involved with the band in the past.

Peeled Tangerines You may remember these guys from last year’s Phi-sponsored Battle of the Bands, when they made it to the “final two” to

Across

1 – A mutt 4 – Egyptian god or common interjection 7 – equal to about $1.42 11 – Law School organization (acr.) 12 – Soviet Union secret service, 19231934 13 – DeWalt products 15 – Father of American Anthropology 17 – Host of former PRI show “Fair Game” 18 – O, U and sometimes Y 19 – Lars of Metallica 21 – Nessie (acr.) 22 – Swedish for “cleared area” 23 – Finger- or toe24 – ___ of Man 27 – Used to hold a tent in place 28 – “____ my ___ Jill?” commercial 30 – Basketball assist 33 – Ferrari founder 36 – “___ ___ or the Dog” on Animal Planet 38 – “____, Nelly!” 39 – The most prestigious Indian university (acr.) 40 – Unique (acr.) 41 – Italian for “oven” 43 – Historic Nashville musical venue (acr.) 45 - ___ Magnette by ___: a car 46 – Types of plums 48 – A function operating on complex numbers 50 – Passé for “couple” 51 - ___ ships or ferries 53 – Brake safety feature 56 – Controversial sports selection system

compete against Danger Mermaid, a band that was then composed of all seniors. “It was just really nice to get that kind of recognition,” said sophomore Julian Helmer, the drummer. “We respected them so much, so it was great to share the stage with them.” In the past, they’ve mostly done covers of bands like The Black Keys, to great success. This year, they aim to keep on truckin’ with original compositions by vocalist/guitarist sophomore Aaron Zalman, which he describes as “alternative soul.”

The Breezes “Our genre?” asked junior Evan Fuller, the band’s lead singer. “Well, it’s kind of hard to put it into one word. Generically, I guess you could call it indie rock, but we really try to bring in an almost orchestral aspect, especially with our violinist, Annie Truscott [also of Combo Pack].” The band started out as a discourse of musical ideas flowing between Fuller and junior Joe Wheeler, and then grew from there as they added in new elements, such as Truscott’s violin playing. “We found a really cool, new sound when we decided to add a female vocalist, Laurel Sarfan,” said Fuller. This year, the band will continue this kind of artistic growth, looking for new ways to develop its style and sound.

Dabbles in Bloom With a serious focus on vocals, the Dabbles coalesced around sophomore duo Adriel Borshanky and Rimmy Doowa, who met when they both joined Schwa last year, and then started writing and singing original compositions on their own. After recruiting Jan-start Aaron Zalman, who Borshanky met at lunch, and his then-roommate sophomore Sam Epstein, they embarked on an epic journey to bandhood, playing simple gigs like coffeehouse and informal outdoor shows. But behind their front of humble informality, there’s some serious artistic direction; Doowa’s multi-faceted vocal talent seems to be a defining point for

58 – Former Whitman president 60 – LOL misspelling 61 – Art supply 64 – Author of La Chulla Vida 66 – Upcoming Asian geo-political summit 67 – Classic American muscle cars 68 – Spanish (Mex.) for “dude” 69 – A sac growth, mainly benign 70 – Goddess of Norse mythology 71 – New science equipment

The Peeled Tangerines

the band. “She’s from Thailand, so she grew up singing Indian classical rock,” said Borshanky—an aspect of her ability that’s led the band to some interesting places, stylistically. “This year, we’re trying to go back to what she knows best, so that it’s not her adapting to the kind of music people might expect us to play, but it’s us adapting to learn a style of music she knows really well.”

White Vowels We should really be using the singular here (i.e. White Vowel), because after firing his entire staff of 25 guitar-wielding rockers, enigmatic front man Peter Richards has made the “Vowels” a solo act. “I really wanted to do the same thing on a bigger scale, but they weren’t into it, so I fired them,” said Richards. Shaped by musical influences such as Prince and the Hives, Richards says that his electronic music is unique for its energy.

Red Light Blue Light

Orange Fight Famous for collectively holding four Ph.D.s in a five-piece band, the all-faculty band Orange Fight has been compared to the likes of Pink Floyd and Tom Petty. They’ve played an impressive list of venues and shows since their artistic birth last year. In the early days, they played as an interlude while the judges made their decision at the battle of the bands, between plays at the instant play festival, and at coffeehouse. The band came together when vocalist and rhythm guitarist Neal Christopherson, who had been recording songs in his basement, decided to try a live show, and enrolled in a battle of the bands in downtown Walla Walla during that summer. Their biggest challenge by far is perhaps the responsibility that their Ph.D.s and adult jobs carry; “everyone in the band works at Whitman and has a full time job,” said Christopherson. “So it gets really hard to say ‘hey, let’s go out on tour,’ when you have five people’s families and jobs to worry about.”

Combo Pack

1 – Recently retired Whitman prof. 2 – People of early Ireland 3 – Science fiction fanzine phrase for ASAP (acr.) 4 – Upcoming Amenábar film 5 – “___ ___ of Air”: Leiber sci-fi story 6 – Human sciences (abbr.) 7 – GRE creators 8 – Upon our arrival (acr.) 9 – Anthropology chair 10 – Underwent beautiful renovations 11 – “The View from ___” by Claude Lévi-Strauss 12 – To bind by oath, contract, etc. 14 – Other new science equipment 16 – Microsoft MP3 20 – To conceal, past tense 25 – A Telemark ___ 26 – Common conversion (singular) 27 – A delectable legume 28 – Ninth letter of Greek alphabet 29 – “___ & ___” by comedian George Carlin 30 – Last prof. to conduct external review of FL&L (acr.) 31 – Famous diner 32 – Gender Studies and Anthropology

42 46

26 29

40 44

51 58

57 63

66 69

prof. 34 – Head lice 35 – ____ code 37 – Graphs electrical activity of the heart 42 – Bono’s ____ campaign 44 – Natives of the Lesser Antilles 47 - ___ = ___ ___2

Down

45 49

49 – Rice-A- or Pasta 51 – 20th century pragmatist 52 – A Walla Walla staple 53 – First major empire to convert to Christianity 54 – Rides motorcycles 55 – American vodka 56 – Title of first complete works of Bach

medak-seguin

(acr.) 57 – Fábregas 59 – Eg., Final Fantasy or Dungeons & Dragons 62 – Multinational European airline 63 – Canadian province (abbr.) 65 – Processes visual info (acr.)

the PIONEER

September 3, 2009

Humor Meet the new Humor Editors!

Hi! My name is Finn Straley. • I was born on Aug. 5, 1930, in the small town of Wapakoneta, Ohio. • I began studying aerospace engineering at Purdue University in 1947. • After graduating from Purdue, I tested experimental aircraft for the air force, and once piloted an X-15 jet to heights exceeding 200,000 feet. • On July 21, 1969, at 2:56 UTC, I fulfilled mankind’s destiny and became the first man ever to walk on the moon. • After this happened, I would often call up people I knew in high school, saying, “What’s new with you? That’s cool. Me? Oh, nothing, I JUST LANDED ON THE GOD-DAMN MOON!!”

Hey there! My name is Simi Singh. • I was born Sept. 18, 1971, in Plano, Texas. • I love to ride my bike competitively and with friends. • I have a resting heart rate of 32 beats per minute, far lower than the average human. • I have won seven consecutive Tours de France, which many say is one of the greatest displays of human athleticism. • I was awarded the 2003 BBC Sports Personality of the Year Overseas Personality. • I have only one testicle.

What’s up? My name is Alex Kerr. • I learned to play jazz by ear when I was 11 from New Orleans alleycat Bunk Johnson. • I am the best part of Ken Burns’ documentary “Jazz.”

BACK 2 SCHOOL NEWS! FRESHMEN NEWS Freshman “pretty good” at guitar.....................................1 Freshman roommates “totally hit it off ” ........................1 Freshman grows beard .....................................................1

IMPORTAN T NEWS Hipster ignored..................................................................1 Starcraft played ................................................................14 Dance party quickly devolves into YouTube watching party....................................................7 New kid mistakes Lyman for “an okay place to live” ....8 TKE students still helping first-year girls move into dorms........................................................8

A&E 2-West deems porno film “trite”........................................8

Op-Ed by Ernest GOODBLOOD Have you seen that one YouTube video about the animals? It’s really great. There’s, like, all these people and they’re trying to catch an animal and the animal makes this noise that sounds just like a human noise! It’s crazy! I was at a party last night and I put it on when things started to wind down and this girl said I was the funniest guy she had met at college. I think I might ask her out later. I found a video about children that I might post on her Facebook wall later.

LOOK! See how we somehow got away with publishing our lame jokes? We want you to join us! The Humor Page is building our team of writers RIGHT NOW. You can fill out applications on the Pioneer Web site or find them in the manila folders on the Pioneer stands. Campus mail your application to Alex Kerr by Saturday, Sept. 12, and join the team that has the most fun doing the least important stuff!

Most purcha sed post er on c ampus

Questions, comments, vicious ridicule? E-mail: kerrag@whitman.edu.

the PIONEER

September 3, 2009

Back to School Whether you have just entered Whitman as a student for the first time or you have recently returned for another fall, coming back to school is sure to be an exciting yet

Drop the books! September events

chaotic time. From starting new classes to meeting new people, the first few weeks can often be overwhelming. To start the year off right, The Pioneer has provided you with advice and reflections on Whitman from President George Bridges, ASWC Communications Director Russ Caditz-Peck and student and College Prowler intern Sara Rasmussen. To balance academics and social life, refer to our top 10 list of places to

From a fantastic first Coffeehouse to fraternity all-campus parties, September at Whitman provides social events for any taste. Among the most popular back-to-school events are the Black Student Union dance in Reid and the Interest House Community block party on Boyer and Otis. Use this map to view the location, date and time of all your favorite upcoming campus events.

study and activity map of upcoming campus events. Enjoy the new semester!

TOP

Simultaneously with the start of classes comes the initially exciting and soon to be all too frequent trips to Penrose Library. As workloads increase, so do the number of students swarming the library. For a change of scenery, or simply to avoid the crowds, try these study locale alternatives.

1. Reid Coffeehouse

If you are the group-study-tables-bythe-window type, try this equally loud alternative. The background noises of the post office, bookstore, and café matched with continuous people-watching possibilities, make the basement of Reid the ultimate multitasking location: come prepared with some light reading, but expect the op-

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tion of other students’ surveys, I drew a few conclusions about the college. With the ups and downs I have experienced in the past year, I occasionally thought of transferring to another college. Exploring Whitman in depth simultaneously revived these ideas and helped me discover why, in the end, I’m still here, and will certainly graduate from the school. Choosing one’s undergraduate college, I have found, is not one of the biggest decisions of one’s life. One may or may not experience the best four years of their life there. Many liberal arts colleges are similar, and it often comes down to arbitrary differences that impact the decision of where to attend. Each school has its difficulties, and there is no perfect school for anyone. The experience, rather, is both fantastic and tumultuous, regardless. Another important discovery about Whitman is less about the institution as it is the students: Whitties are quite the complainers, myself included. In most of the student surveys I collected, where questions ranged from “How’s the food?” to “What is a typical Whittie?” or “How are the guys and girls?” it was easy to spot student frustrations. We criticize far more than the school probably actually merits. From Walla Walla and its weather to Bon Appétit and campus security, we could all really use a moment to step back and appreciate the school’s strengths and its weaknesses in context. Such revelations made working for College Prowler worth the experience. The book does contain some great lists, if I do say so myself, such as the “Whitman Traditions” and “Things I wish I knew before coming to Whitman.” They provide a good laugh for the upperclassmen or some quality reading for first-years that doesn’t come across as propaganda. Alternately, a student could skip the $16.95 price tag and maybe just learn it all for themselves.

the PIONEER

September 3, 2009

Walla Walla Business Listings Lodgings

Address

Phone

Restaurants

Address

Phone

HOTELS

Saffron Mediterranean Kitchen

125 West Alder

(509) 525-2112

BED & BREAKFASTS

T. Maccarone's

4 S. Colville St.

(509) 522-4776

A Room With A View

28 Roland Court

(509) 529-1194

The Marc Restaurant

6 West Rose St.

(509) 525-2200

Elizabeth Inn

939 Bergevin Springs Road

(509) 522-1688

Whitehouse-Crawford Restaurant

55 W. Cherry St.

(509) 525-2222

Fat Duck Inn

527 Catherine St

(888) 526-8718

ITALIAN

Girasol Vineyard & Inn

504 Basel

(866) 615-2301

Big Cheese Pizza

499 North Wilbur Avenue

(509) 525-4422

Green Gables Inn

922 Bonsella

(509) 525-5501

Italian Bistro

1528 Isaacs Avenue

(509) 527-8889

Inn at Abeja

2014 Mill Creek Road

(509) 522-1234

Sweet Basil Pizzeria

5 S. First Avenue

(509) -529-1950

Inn at Blackberry Creek

1126 Pleasant

(509) 522-5233

MEXICAN

Stone Creek Manor

756 Bryant Ave

(509) 593-4770

El Sombrero

4 West Oak

(509) 522-4984

The Inn at Woodhaven Farm

1341 Walla Walla Ave

(509) 529-4746

La Casita Mexican Family Restaurant

315 S. 9th St.

(509) 522-4941

The Maxwell House Bed & Breakfast Inn

701 Boyer Ave

(509) 529-4283

La Ramada

1708 E. Isaacs Avenue

(509) 525-5555

Whispering Winds of Walla

454 Van Donge Lane

(509) 525-4923

Taqueria Yungapeti

320 S 9th Avenue

(509) 526-9494

Wine Country Inn

915 Alvarado Terrace

(509) 386-3592

Winery

Address

Phone

Amavi Cellars

635 N. 13th Avenue

(509) 525-3541

GUEST HOUSE A. K. Dice Guest House

524 Catherine St

(866) 972-5342

Ash Hollow

14 N. Second Ave.

(509) 529-7565

Fischer House on Eagan

128 Eagan Avenue

(509) 540-9518

Balboa Winery

7 S 4th Ave

(509) 529-0461

Lewis Peak Estates

26 Lewis Peak Rd. Waitsburg, WA 99361

(509) 200-2131

Beresan

4169 Pepper Bridge Road

(509) -522-9912

Loma Loft

531 Catherine St

(509) 386-5251

Bergevin Lane Vineyards

1215 W. Poplar St.

(509) -526-4300

Many Waters Guest House

709 Washington Street

(206) 323-7800

Buty Winery

535 East Cessna Ave.

(509) 527-0901

Osterman Guest House

421 Lincoln St.

(509) 526-3825

Canoe Ridge Vineyard

1102 West Cherry Street

(509) 527-0885

Strawberry Canyon Lodge

9052 Mill Creek Road

(509) 529-5288

Cougar Crest Winery

50 Frenchtown Rd

(509) 529-5980

The Boyer House

741 Boyer Ave.

(509) 200-9931

DaMa Wines

45 East Main Street

(509) 520-9687

The Chestnut House

125 Chestnut St

(206) 313-0943

Dunham Cellars

150 East Boeing Ave

(509) 529-4685

The Haven

633 Pearson St

(509) 529-7400

Dusted Valley Vinters

1248 Old Milton Hwy

(509) 525-1337

The Many Waters Guest House

709 Washington St

(206) 323-7800

Elegante' Cellars

839 "C" St. at the Walla Walla (509) 525-9129 Airport.

The Vue off Main

Rose St

(509) 540-9513

Forferon Cellars

33 West Birch Street

(509) 522-9463

Tucker Inn

1134 S. Howard

(888) 399-2308

Fort Walla Walla Cellars

1383 Barleen Drive

(509) 520-1095

Restaurants

Address

Phone

Glen Fiona

1249 Lyday Lane

(509) 522-2566

Glencorrie

8052 West Highway 12

(509) 525-2585

AMERICAN Clarette's

15 South Touchet St.

(509) 529-3430

Isenhower Cellars

3471 Pranger Road

(509) 526-7896

Fast Eddy's

600 W. Main St.

(509) 525-2757

K Vintners

820 Mill Creek Road

(509) 526-5230

Ice Burg Drive-In

616 W. Birch St.

(509) 529-1793

Lowden Hills Winery

1401 W Pine Street

(509) 527-1040

Mill Creek Brew Pub

11 S. Palouse

(509) 522-2440

Mannina Cellars

760 C St

(509) -529-5760

Mr. Ed's

2555 E. Isaacs

(509) 525-8440

Morrison Lane

201 West Main Street

(509) 301-0853

Onion World

2 South First #100

(509) 522-2541

Nicholas-Cole Cellars

320 S 9th Avenue

(509) 526-9494

The River's Edge

1419 Pine St.

(509) 522-3500

Northstar Winery

1736 J B George Rd

(509) 529-0948

Otis Kenyon Wine

1793 JB George Road

(206) 463-3125

ASIAN Aloha Sushi

71/2 S. 1st Ave

(509) 527-8744

Patit Creek Cellars

325 A Street

(509) 522-4684

China Buffet

1618 Plaza Way

(509) 526-7797

Patrick M. Paul Vineyards

107 South 3rd Avenue

(509) 526-0676

Golden Horse

628 W. Main St.

(509) 525-7008

Pepper Bridge Winery

1704 JB George Road

(509) 525-6502

Ming Court

1533 E. Isaacs Avenue

(509) 522-2828

Reininger Winery

5858 W. Highway 12

(509) 522-1994

Modern Restaurant

2200 E. Melrose St.

(509) 525-8662

Russell Creek Winery

301 Aeronca Avenue

(509) 386-4401

Pacific Express Asian Bistro

435 Ash Street

(509) 525-0775

Sapolil Cellars

15 E. Main St.

(509) 520-5258

PHOSHO

123 West Alder St.

(509) 525-9794

Saviah Cellars

1979 JB George Road

(509) 520-5166

Thai City Restaurant

311 South Ninth Ave

(509) 525-2566

Seven Hills Winery

212 N. 3rd Ave

(509)529-7198

Skylite Cellars

Highway 12 & Campbell Rd

(509) 529-8000

Café Coffee Connection Café

57 E. Main St

(509) 529-9999

Sweet Valley Wines

1003 W Rose Street

(360) 823-6222

Coffee Perk

4S 1st

(509) 526-0636

Tamarack Cellars

700 "C" Street

(509) 526-3533

Stone Soup Café

105 E. Alder

(509) 525-5008

Tertulia Cellars

1564 Whitely Road

(509) 525-5700

WildBerries! Whole Foods Café & Catering

9 South 1st

(509) 529-3400

Three Rivers Winery

5641 W. Hwy. 12

(509) 526-9463

Trio Vintners

596 Piper Avenue

(509) 529-8746

DELI

Merchants

21 E. Main

(509) 525-0900

TRUST Cellars

1050 Merlot Drive

(509) 529-4511

Tony's Sub Shop

1068 Isaacs Avenue

(509) 529-5516

Va Piano Vineyards

1793 J.B. George Road

(509) 529-0900

Walla Walla Village Winery

107 South 3rd Avenue

(509) 525-9463

FINE DINING Backstage Bistro

230 E. Main

(509) 526-0690

Walla Walla Wine Works

31 East Main Street

(509) 522-1262

Brasserie Four

4 E. Main

(509) 529-2011

Whitman Cellars

1015 W Pine St.

(509) 529-1142

CreekTown Café

1129 S. 2nd, Suite D

(509) 522-4777

Yellow Hawk Cellar

343 South 2nd Avenue

(509) 529-1714

the PIONEER

September 3, 2009

Opinion

WHERE W E STAND

Stakes high for health care reform

bilt

der van

DID YOU KNOW? • In 2000, the American health care system was ranked 37th in overall performance by the World Health Organization • In 2006, approximately 16% of Americans were uninsured.

ill in the blank: When I think about “health care reform,” I feel _________________________. Chances are, you didn’t actually write anything, but let’s pretend you had. I’d wager many of us would have written “kind of sleepy and maybe hungry.” That’s okay. This article is for you. Some of us might have gone with “vaguely angry... because weren’t democrats supposed to pass that by now?” That’s great—this article is for you too. Maybe one or two Politics majors actually did try to write something, but were so angry at the corporate-owned, “moderate” Blue Dog democrats in Congress that they exploded into a million gruesome pieces. They are screwed, because we still don’t have health care reform and they can’t pay the premiums to put themselves back together. That’s why reform is too important to fail. The U.S. is the last industrialized country without a universal health care system, according to the Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Sciences. In 2000, the

World Health Organization ranked the American health care system at 37th in overall performance. In 2006, roughly 47 million—or 16 percent of Americans—were uninsured, and the White House estimates that over 14,000 Americans are now losing their insurance every day. The U.S. is tied with countries like Slovakia and Taiwan for infant mortality, and ranked last among industrialized countries for rates of preventable deaths for those under 75. Yet of any of those countries, the U.S. spends the highest percent of its GDP on health care—over 30 percent of which goes to the giant private insurance bureaucracy. Those statistics are scary, but assuming you’re young and healthy, this issue still may rank below “Gossip Girl.” You probably feel invincible right now. You look pretty good. Why should you care? Scary statistics aside, reform would affect you—especially as college students seeking employment over the next few years. Want the ability to move from job to job or start a small business without worrying about health insurance? Then you need reform. The Small Business Majority, a national advocacy group, estimates that 1.6 million aspiring American

entrepreneurs are locked into jobs to retain health insurance—that could be you next year. Meaningful reform would create a public health insurance option to address these problems, while also driving down costs of current private plans. Without reform, the cost of health insurance for an average American family is predicted to double in the next decade alone. The proposed health reform will cost $1 trillion in lost revenue. For some perspective, Bush’s 2001 and 2003 tax cuts to the wealthiest Americans have cost $1.8 trillion in lost revenue, and are estimated to cost $3.5 trillion in total. The wars in Iraq and Afghanistan will cost trillions and the annual defense budget sits at $6.5 trillion. In terms of the outlook for our economy, health care is expected to account for about 18 percent of the United States’ GDP this year. Without reform, that share is projected to rise to 28 percent in 2030 and to 34 percent in 2040. Reform is on the line in Congress this fall. The trillion dollar question remains—who will our elected representatives choose to represent: The people who vote for them, or the donor corporations that profit from the status quo?

RUSS CADITZ-PECK Columnist If our overwhelming Democratic majority can’t pass a meaningful health care reform bill this fall, it’s time to play hardball. The stakes should be high—Democrats must either pass a good bill, or those standing in the way of reform must face primary challenges as soon as possible. Democrats may lose seats in Congress. But what’s the point of a huge, filibuster-proof majority if you can’t pass a worthwhile health reform bill? Remember, this has been a priority of the Democratic party since Harry Truman’s 1948 campaign. Now is the time to care, and remind your representatives to represent you—not the health insurance industry.

Living Green: Grassroots momentum needed on climate change

serving wall a wall a

Sitting in a conference room in South Korea with 800 youth from 110 different countries, drafting a statement to our leaders on climate change was both exhilarating and, perhaps, enLISA CURTIS tirely futile. Columnist It was exhilarating in the sense that we were a small part of something bigger, shaping a declaration that would be delivered to ministers and presidents before the upcoming conference on climate change in Copenhagen. We are part of a growing movement of young people tired of our leaders playing fast and loose with our planet and our future. And yet, my excitement was dampened by the nagging recollection that the United Nations Environment Programme’s Tunza International Youth Conference was not the first international environmental gathering and it is unlikely to be the last. The Rio Summit of 1992 was the first prominent international environmental conference and is where many of the current annual high-level meetings, such as the Convention on Biological Diversity, Commission on Sustainable Development and the Climate Change Convention, got their starts. Recently, a lot of these conferences have been encouraging youth participation, recognizing our generation as the “voice of the future.” I’ve personally attended a few of these meetings and, although I’ve enjoyed all of them, I often wonder if they are worth it. The cost— whether you measure it in terms of car-

Vo l u n t e e r i n g . Sometimes the word seems like a glowing emblem and you want to question its merit. How can any Whitman student truly affect those in the surroundMATT ing community? MANLEY That’s why we deColumnist cided to write this column—because you can. As this is our inaugural volunteerism column of the semester, some introductions are in order. Matt Manley: I have worked for The Pioneer in various capacities for the past two years. I am extremely excited to be writing as a columnist this semester. My vision for this weekly piece is centered on discussing general volunteerism, as well as helping Whitties to involve themselves with existing volunteer opportunities in the Walla Walla community, and discussing the unmet needs of the community. I also hope to bring some specialty knowledge to the column from my position this year as the AdoptA-Grandparent intern at the Center for Community Service. Last week, I was a leader for one of Whitman’s first-ever Summer Community Outreach Experiences (SCORE) trips, and that has gotten me even more excited to connect students to the community. Alethea Buchal: I was drawn to write this column from my experience volunteering on Earth Day and at the Blue Mountain Humane Society. After stepping outside of the golden oasis of Whitman into a poorer district of town, I discovered how important it is to break the Whitman bubble! We’re here to learn

bon, time or money—is always high, and the results are often intangible. At the most recent UN Commission on Sustainable Development, over 100 youths attended to push our governments to put the sustainability back into “sustainable” development. The entire youth caucus spent long hours drafting statements and meeting with our respective country’s delegation leaders. The result: a non-binding treaty that looked eerily similar to previous treaties with the usual agriculture subsidies, tariffs and empty promises to help Africa. But what of the low-carbon alternative? I could have spent my summer in Walla Walla living in a tent entirely off the grid, planting trees and praying that those darn politicians get something done in Copenhagen. Yet a recent study by a Swedish economist showed that even if everyone in Sweden adopted the most extreme behavioral changes in favor of green consumption this would only bring a maximum of a 30 percent reduction in carbon emissions. If you apply this study to the Western world in its entirety, it highlights the need for policy change. At the same time, these conferences will only be effective if there is grassroots momentum for them. As easy as it is to complain of the money, special interests and corruption that play a role in our political system, that is no excuse not to get involved. During the recent vote in the House on the American Clean Energy and Security Act (ACES), many Congressional members reported receiving hundreds of calls urging them to vote against the bill and only a handful of calls supporting ACES. For the first comprehensive piece of legislation on climate change to receive so little support in the age of ecoeverything is absurd.

That dream starts with our own lives but does not end there. We need to live green while making sure that we make our voices heard.

I’ve often heard people my age, especially at Whitman, complain that our leaders—especially Congress—need to “wake-up.” I don’t believe that they ever will. In a very real sense, the representative nature of much of the world’s governments means that most world leaders are reactionary, not revolutionary. Even President Obama, who I believe is one of the most activist politicians to have ever lived, ran a campaign that was very much a reaction against eight years of the Bush administration. If we want our leaders to legislate a world where sustainability is put ahead of systematic extraction, we need to show them that it is possible. It is not so much that we need the world to “wake up,” it’s that we need to show it a new dream. That dream starts with our own lives but does not end there. We need to live green while making sure that we make our voices heard. This year is one of the most exciting times in history to be an environmentalist. The climate bill will soon be put to a vote in the Senate and then the entire world will gather in Copenhagen to come up with a post-Kyoto treaty. This is our moment—let’s seize it.

Student volunteer opportunities abound

ALETHEA BUCHAL Columnist

from each other, our professors, and coursework, but sometimes it’s easy to get lost in the perfection of our campus. We forget the people just down the street who wouldn’t mind talking with a college student and sharing their experiences from

the “real world.” It’s our intent to inform students about opportunities for community involvement, educate about the various needs in the Walla Walla community and help guide students toward the resources that will help them meet these needs. We also encourage anyone to write to The Pioneer and share their volunteer experiences or organizations in need of volunteer support. Finally, we want to offer an exhortation to everyone: it is never too late to start volunteering. Whether you are new to Whitman and attended your first-ever activities fair this week, or a senior with a little extra time on your hands, look at the various possibilities to lend your time to Walla Walla. If none of the campus-based service organizations interest you, meet with Lina Menard, Community Service Coordinator. It is her job to help you find a service opportunity that matches your skills and interests. If you haven’t had the opportunity to volunteer much, you should also remember the personal benefits of volunteerism. Volunteering in groups is an excellent way to meet people and build skills. Keep reading here for more info!

OPINION

September 3, 2009

The real world vs. Whitman First years—this is the politically correct and gender neutral term for those of you who care—you’ve got four (maybe five, and hopefully not three) years at Whitman College starting two GARY WANG days ago. Make Columnist the most of it and remember almost as much. You have a four-year hiatus between the conforming boredom of high school and the harsh reality of a full time working adult. Enjoy. Here’s why: In the working world, no one likes

you for you. Your boss won’t give you an extension on the TPS report because you’ve got personal problems. Whitman professors will be sympathetic at the very least. And if your TPS report sucks, then you’re fired and you have to survive on your dime, not your parents’. Based on my very limited experience of the corporate environment, rest assured that long nights at Penrose are nothing because nothing truly is at stake. You get a bad grade, fine, but at least your parents are shelling out thousands upon thousands for you to get bad grades. In many cities, the police will arrest you for underage drinking. They will bust your house party if it’s too loud, and there’s an entire industry dedicated to and dependent on bringing the war on drugs to your home and every home in

your neighborhood. Here at Whitman... not so much; you may not like your RA but at least appreciate and respect them. If you haven’t noticed by now, Whitman’s a friendly place. Even after the first few weeks of school, after people

Take your time here because, believe it or not, it’s exactly fifteen weekends until the end of first semester, or thirty days of unrestricted partying.

have forgotten to maintain their best face, people here are generally still nicer than almost anywhere else I’ve visited. After all, didn’t a bunch of frat brothers wake up from their hangovers to help you move in? Haven’t Whitman students reported extremely high rates of happiness to esteemed publications ranking colleges? After all, where are the bullies on campus? There aren’t many fights here. No outward aggression. Maybe a little passive aggression between fraternities and sororities, but little student-on-student crime. Everyone knows everyone, and if you feel overwhelmed right now, you’ll hear enough gossip to have a good idea of who everyone is at least. So, take your time here because, believe it or not, it’s exactly fifteen weeks

until the end of first semester. That’s fifteen weekends, or thirty days of unrestricted partying. Just thirty, well fortyfive if you’ve got Thursdays and sixty if you include Wednesdays. Whitman, or more precisely the Whitman environment, is relatively generous with breaks and alcohol. OK, not really with alcohol but this is an environment dedicated to letting you grow as a person. That means no draconian punishments from your RA because Whitman wants you to learn, grow, and mature. Sure, whatever that means. But, if nothing has changed since I was a freshman in Jewett, your RA will not confiscate unopened containers. That’s unlike almost every other school I’ve heard of and there for a reason. Needless to say, enjoy your stay.

study abroad: semester in london

Walla Walla’s mouse trap effect There is something alluring and familiar about going to school in Walla Walla, Wash. It is a town of few surprises and many comforts, where friends can run into each other DEREK on the street, and THURBER stores are easy to Columnist find. At first I was uncertain about the prospect of going to a school in Middle of Nowhere, USA, but in the last few years I have found that the prospect of returning to Whitman’s little corner of the world is a strangely comforting idea. When I decided to spend a semester in the opposite environment of London and not to return to the comforting Walla Walla this fall I never realized how much that would make a difference to my summer. It is always exciting to venture to a new place and to learn how to navigate a new city, especially one in a foreign country. Yet, it is somewhat unnatural to prepare for the end of the summer not by packing for school, but instead by packing for a semester abroad. It is as if Walla Walla snapped down on my mental sensibilities when I first arrived two years ago and now I am stuck like a mouse in a trap yearning for the cheese that is just out of grasp. And so I pack for a new adventure yearning for something as exciting and comforting as Whitman, knowing that the whole trip will be conducted with the allure of Whitman hanging somewhere in the back of my mind. It is a constant, yet comforting pest. I embark now on this journey of a lifetime with anxious excitement that is supported by the inherent knowledge that at the other end of this journey no matter how good or bad it turns out there will still be the same Whitman I have come to cherish. I encourage anyone who reads this to find a similar connection to Whitman and nurture it as a means of comfort even in the toughest or strangest or even

Alden

happiest of times. I know I will be thinking of all the memories I have made at this school while making new ones during my semester in London.

It is as if Walla Walla snapped down on my mental sensibilities when I first arrived two years ago and now I am stuck like a mouse in a trap yearning for the cheese that is just out of grasp.

Editors’ Note: Welcome back! By now, you’ve had the chance to catch up with friends and see some new faces. Whether you’re new to campus or returning, we hope this special Back to School Edition serves as a guide as you settle into your routines for the semester. Another special fact about this issue is that it’s the earliest one The Pioneer has ever printed, edging out last year’s first issue by three full weeks. Our editors worked throughout the summer to prepare

this edition, no easy feat. Thanks to the efforts of our talented staff, we also made the transition from tabloid style to broadside, and launched a massive overhaul of our Web site, which now offers more interactive features than ever before. Look for our first regular issue to hit the stands on Thursday, Sept. 17. In the meantime, we’re accepting applications for all staff positions, from reporters and columnists to photographers, illustrators and business associates. If you think you

may have an interest in joining The Pioneer, please come by our open staff meeting this Sunday, Sept. 6, at 7:15 p.m. in The Pioneer office on the second floor of Reid—and yes, there will be pizza. Working for The Pioneer is a unique way to engage with the Whitman community— whether by interviewing campus organizations, selling ads to local businesses or honing your artistic skills. The Pioneer is your newspaper and we need your support to provide the best coverage possible.

Alden

the PIONEER

September 3, 2009

Sports Sherwood: $15.5 million remodel opens to students by MELISSA NAVARRO Sports Editor

Van Neste

Van Neste A state-of-the-art indoor rock-climbing wall and an expanded gymnasium are among the renovated features.

Next at Bat:

Whitman’s newbaseball head coach steps up

by MELISSA NAVARRO Sports Editor A fresh start for the men’s baseball team was just what the doctor ordered when Jared Holowaty came on board this year as head coach. Hailing from the East Coast, where he worked as assistant coach and recruitment coordinator for the University of Maine for the last four years, the new coach is excited to offer his hand in leading the team to success this year. The Pioneer: What are you most excited about this year? Coach Holowaty: The opportunity. I know the expectations haven’t been too

Almost 18 months have passed since construction and improvement work began on the old Sherwood Athletic Center. To Athletic Director Dean Snider, the new and improved center has a lot to show off. “It’s taken years of planning and rebuilding to get to this point. It feels good to finally have it come together like this,” Snider said. Catering to the wants and needs of athletic groups, students and other members of the community, the center has a more accommodating feel. “The number one request from varsity athletes was the set up of team rooms,” Snider said, pointing out three men’s team rooms and three women’s, complete with locker space and saunas. Other than varsity athletes, Sherwood meets the needs of dancers, theatre students and yoga and pilates enthusiasts. Three dance studios, complete with mirrors, curtains and new floors are open for use. Intramural sport athletes who have used the smaller of the two old Sherwood gyms will now be able to use a gym of over 16,000 square feet, which is almost the same size as the main gym used for basketball games. Snider said that finding adequate space for practice is “always a challenge.” The new gym may solve the problem of space since it also offers natural light, bleachers and batting cages for the baseball team. Boasting a greener space, Sherwood’s multiple skylights invite in more daylight to illuminate the several spots. The “light-harvesting system” in the lower gym senses the amount of natural light

coming in and adds artificial light if necessary. Near the main campus entrance, the rain garden takes in rain from the roof, which reduces the amount of wasted water. New technology in smart classrooms and video screening and editing rooms make Sherwood up to speed with the needs of teams and classes. The new indoor climbing wall spans almost 40 feet high and over 100 feet wide. Snider credits Outdoor Program Director Brian Sheedy for his work on the wall. “Brian Sheedy is the guy who really helped out with the creation of this wall. This might be the nicest, most innovative collegiate climbing wall in the country,” Snider said. Students who have observed the changes over the last year and a half are excited to see the final product as the school year begins. “I was pretty impressed when they finished the rock wall and the addition on the west side—it really makes it look more welcoming,” senior Kali Stoer said. The Sherwood Athletic Center is now open for the year.

high, but I come here trying to build something with a lot of support from the team and the school. The Pioneer: What were your first impressions of Whitman’s baseball team? Coach Holowaty: At first glance, it’s a unique situation. I understand how losses can determine a team’s attitude and it can become ingrained in that attitude. We’re trying to change that this year and be successful in changing that ingrained idea, even if it doesn’t result in wins right away. The Pioneer: While you were at the University of Maine as a recruiting coordinator, what qualities did you look for in players? Coach Holowaty: You want the play-

er that fits the profile of the school and buys into what you’re trying to sell them. It’s important to have quality studentathletes that play hard. The Pioneer: And you saw great results? Coach Holowaty: Absolutely. I had to help rebuild the last program I was a part of and we had to fuse in our expectations with their qualities, and it ended up being pretty successful. The Pioneer: What are you hoping to achieve this year? Coach Holowaty: A positive turnaround that brings BIG energy from the support of the school.

Est. 1998

Welcome Class of 2013 and families. Go for it! Tim Sampson, winemaker and parent

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We invite you to take a break from the weekend hubbub and visit our tasting room. You’ll find a quiet little echo of historic Walla Walla and Italian-inspired wines to satisfy every palate and budget. Sample award winning Sangiovese, Barbera, dry-style Muscat Canelli and Solstice, our proprietary red blend. Finish your experience with two memorable dessert wines, Orange Muscat and port-style OpPORTunity. You can’t go wrong choosing these food-friendly wines for your next gathering. Your friends will thank you! 343 S Second Ave, Walla Walla, WA 529 - 1714 Fri • Sat • Sun • Mon 11:00 - 5:30 yellowhawkcellar.com

See the completed renovations at whitmanpioneer. com

SPORTS

September 3, 2009

Varsity athletic schedule

Friday, Sept. 4

Women’s Soccer: Northwest University (Kirkland, Wash.) vs. Whitman College in Walla Walla, Wash., 5 p.m. Game Notes: The Whitman women open the season against the Northwest University Eagles out of Kirkland Washington. The Eagles have already played twice this season, losing to both fellow Northwest Conference School Pacific Lutheran University and NCAA Division II Central Washington University. According to an August 17th poll, the Eagles were slotted to finish fourth out of five times in the Cascade Collegiate Conference. Last year, Whitman finished 11-7-1 overall and 9-6-1 in conference, good enough for fourth place in conference. Whitman lost several key seniors who handled a lot of the ball handling in the middle of the field, but return star forward Corina Gabbert along with senior goalkeeper Courtney Porter. Men’s Soccer Northwest University (Kirkland, Wash.) vs. Whitman College in Walla Walla, Wash. 7 p.m. Game Notes: The Whitman men open the counting part of their schedule after defeating the College of Idaho 2-1 in an exhibition game Monday. A lot of young Missionaries played in that exhibition and will likely need to again in this game due to the loss of several key seniors off last year’s team. One of those losses was Northwest Conference Defensive player of the year Brett Axelrod. In his place, Whitman played junior Nic McDonald and first-year Devin Kuh. Both faced a large amount of shots on goal, only allowing one in the second half. Northwest University also opens its season Friday.

Saturday, Sept. 5 Cross Country:

Whitman Cross Country Invitational (W4K, M6K) at Ft. Walla Walla Park at 10:45 and 11:15 a.m., respectively. Game Notes: Rated No. 1 in the West Region and 20th nationally, the Whitman women now begin the defense of that ranking. They’ll do so against a stiff field of competitors. Fellow NWC team Whitworth, rated 25th nationally in Division III, will participate in Saturday’s Invitational as well as Lewis-Clark State, rated No. 9 amongst NAIA schools. The men don’t face bunnies either as Whitworth is rated 22nd nationally, while the Lewis-Clark State men came in at No. 19 in their preseason poll. Both the Whitman women and men return key runners from last year’s team though as all of the runners who ran at the regional meet for the women return and five of the seven who ran for the men. At last year’s invitational, both sides finished third, behind Lewis-Clark State and Whitworth.

Wednesday, Sept. 9

Women’s Soccer: Northwest Christian University vs. Whitman College in Walla Walla, Wash., 2 p.m. Game Notes: The Whitman women play their second game of the season against the Northwest Christian University Beacons. The Beacons have already played four games this season, winning their first one before losing three consecutive games. The last two of those losses came to fellow NWC schools Willamette and George Fox by scores of 0-3 and 1-8, respectively. Whitman split its two games against Willamette last year and swept George Fox. Men’s Soccer: Saint Martin’s University (Olympia, Wash.) vs. Whitman College in Walla Walla, Wash., 7:30 p.m. Game Notes: A year earlier, Whitman crushed the St. Martin’s Saints 4-1. So

far this year, the Saints stand at 0-1-1 after a 0-4 loss against Division II San Francisco State and an overtime loss to Chico State. Four of the six Saints who received all-conference honors return to this year’s team, however, including last year’s Great Northwest Athletic Conference newcomer-ofthe-year Ruben Orozco and honorable mention all-conference selection goalkeeper Zac Lubin.

Friday, Sept. 11

Men’s Soccer: Whitman College vs. Montclair State (NJ) in Colorado Springs, Colo., 2 p.m. Game Notes: The Whitman men head to the Colorado College campus for their first road trip of the season. They’ll first face Montclair State who won their first game of the season, 3-1 over Kings Point College. Last season, the Red Hawks finished 19-0 overall and 9-0 in conference during the regular season, cruising to their third straight conference championship. The Red Hawks advanced to the sweet sixteen in the NCAA tournament before losing for the first time. Whitman missed out on an at-large bid to the NCAA tournament last season because they didn’t have a strong enough non-conference schedule against fellow Division III teams. Montclair State fits the bill this year as just such a team. Volleyball: Whitman College vs. U.C. Santa Cruz (3 p.m.) and George Fox University (5 p.m.) at the Cal-Lu-fornia Tournament at Cal Lutheran in Thousand Oaks, Cali. Game Notes: Whitman opens its counting season at this tournament and while Whitman faces a NWC opponent in George Fox, it will still count as a non-conference game. Last year, Whitman opened with 17 straight losses before beating George

Fox for their first conference and overall victory of the season. That was when they only had eight players on the squad though and this year’s team has swelled to thirteen. Also, last year’s team opened the season with a home loss to Walla Walla Community College, but faced the same team in an exhibition game this season and beat them three sets to one. Women’s Soccer: Whitman College vs. Capital University (Bexley, Ohio) in Spokane, Wash., 4 p.m. Game Notes: In Whitman’s first road game of the season, they face the Capital University Crusaders who won back to back conference championships in 2006 and 2007. The Crusaders haven’t played a game yet this season, but both the Crusaders and Whitman will have played two games by the time they face each other. Whitman will have the advantage in terms of travel time though as fellow NWC school Whitworth University hosts the tournament.

Saturday, Sept. 12

Volleyball: Whitman College vs. Dominican University at the Cal-Lu-fornia Tournament at Cal Lutheran in Thousand Oaks, Cali., 10:30 a.m. Game Notes: Whitman concludes the tournament against Dominican who currently stands at 1-3 so far this season. Senior outside hitter Gabby Pecora and junior setter Brooke Swingle captain the team. Both were named to the California Pacific Conference 2008 All-Conference First Team. Cross Country: Lewis & Clark Cross Country Invitational (W6K, M8K) at McIver Park in Estacada, Ore., 11 a.m. Game Notes: Whitman follows it’s own invitational by traveling to

Lewis & Clark as it did last year. At last year’s tournament, the Whitman women finished second as a team and then-sophomore Kristen Ballinger began a season full of top finishes with a fourth place finish individually. Meanwhile, the men placed fifth with then-sophomore leading the Missionaries with an eighteenth place finish. Men’s Soccer: Whitman College vs. Colorado College in Colorado Springs, Colo., 2 p.m. Game Notes: After Whitman faces Montclair State to open the tournament on Friday, Colorado College faces Whitman Saturday before concluding their tournament against Mountclair State on Sunday. So far, Colorado College hasn’t played any games this season. Last year, they finished 13-6-1.

Sunday, Sept. 13

Women’s Soccer: Whitman College vs. U.C. Santa Cruz in Spokane, Wash., 1 p.m. Game Notes: The Banana Slugs made another postseason run last season for the third year in the row. They finished 12-7-1 overall and 10-5-1 in Division III competition. The game concludes the non-conference portion of the season.

Wednesday, Sept. 16

Women’s Soccer: Whitworth University vs Whitman College in Walla Walla, Wash., 2 p.m. Game Notes: Whitworth swept the Missionaries last season, first beating them 2-1 in Spokane before a 4-0 defeat at home. The second defeat was during the stretch of games star forward Corina Gabbert sat out due to a shoulder injury. The Pirates eventually finished second in the NWC at 11-4-1 and 15-4-1 overall. -Compiled by Andy Jobanek, Director of Content

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September 3, 2009

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1. David Friedman, ’13, moves into his dorm 2. Tennis team advertises at Student Activities Fair 3. First-years move into Jewett 4. Heather Smith, ‘12, and Laura Lindeman, ‘11, table at Student Activities Fair 5. Graham Toben, ’10, and Keith Hock, ’11, pass out popsicles at the Student Activities Fair 6. Voices of Whitman presentation in Amphitheater during orientation

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