Currents 2011 96

CURRENTS Off campus: Where three students are making their mark

Exploring L.A.’s hidden treasures

a look at five secret spots buried in the urban jungle

Dine and

Discover:

two restaurants rising in popularity

Loud&Clear:

one athlete’s determination to speak for a muted community

a letter

editors from the

Today is the day to discover something new. Or perhaps, to rediscover something lost.

It’s all too easy to lose our keys or ID card or even what we’re passionate about. Small aspects of our lives and aspirations become buried over the years, hidden underneath the monotony of routine. So, it’s time to grab your shovel and dig.

What exactly are we looking for? Well, hidden treasure of course. It’s time to dig underneath the surface of the urban jungle and treat it for what it truly is: an adventure. We’re surrounded with beautiful gems just out of sight and untold stories just one more layer deep. They’re not easy to uncover, but the adventure is what makes buried treasure so fun to find.

The captivating beauty of the bright city lights and miles of sandy shoreline are not all that this city offers. It’s time to diverge from PCH and forge a road not yet traveled.

Google maps can’t take you where we’re going — only a hand-crafted treasure map can.

Lucky for you, it’s in your hand. And what better guide than Indiana Jones?

College is more than four years behind a desk; it’s a journey. So we might as well make it interesting. For this issue of Currents, we want to encourage you to discover or rediscover something you love, and maybe it’ll start with this magazine.

CURRENTS MAGAZINE ISSUE 96 | SPRING 2011

Pepperdine University, Seaver College 24255 Pacific Coast Hwy Malibu, CA 90263 Questions & Comments? email us at currentsmagpep@gmail.com or heather.manes@pepperdine.edu

2 | CURRENTS

We’d like to extend a special thanks to each of our contributors and for your wonderful dedication to the production of this magazine. Thank you to Houston Costa for bringing Indiana Jones to life, to Tim Nguyen for teaching us what we very much needed to know and to Elizabeth Smith for helping us with every bump along the way. And of course, to our beautiful assistant, Giulia Scotti. We can’t thank you enough for all the hours, ideas and cupcakes we so desperately needed.

We hope you enjoy this semester’s Currents. It was worth every dollar we spent at Starbucks and every hour in the newsroom. Each of us invested every ounce of our hearts in the production of this magazine, re-editing and redesigning to make sure every reader can find something new within its pages.

Editor

Co-Editor CURRENTS | 3

Currents

Contents

SPORTS An Overshadowed Nation.....................22

Spring 2011

Behind the Stats: Maurice Torres........................................24 Trends: Hot Yoga....................................27

OFF CAMPUS L.A.’s (Secret) Spots................................30 Living Off Campus..................................36

ON CAMPUS­

FOOD

The Heroes of Social Justice...................8

Hemingway Getaway..............................39

Finding a Dream Internship..................12

Villa Blanca Beverly Hills.....................40

Spotlight to Candlelight:

Ladyface Ale & Brassiere.......................41

A class with Randall Wallace................16

Koreatown’s Café Scent.........................42

TECHNOLOGY Tech Central: Best Technology For College Students...............................18

4 | CURRENTS

CURRENTS | 5

Giulia Scotti assistant editor Giulia is a Journalism major from Milan, Italy. She left the fashion capital to try out a new trend: late nights in the CCB. Currents got her addicted to caramel macchiatos, cupcakes and Pandora. In five years, you’ll find her somewhere between Paris and New York editing fashion magazines, planning weddings and publishing cookbooks.

Ashton Bowles photo editor Ashton is a motivated sophomore and an aspiring creative, expressing himself through the channel of photography. He hopes to succeed in his passions as well as strive to better those around him by continuing to allow his relationship with God to lead the way.

Houston Costa art photographer Houston is a third year Film Studies major, and founder of PFM, a movement created to bring stories to life through the art of photography. If there is anything Houston has learned through his growth with PFM is, “There is only one thing worse than being talked about, and that is not being talked about.”

6 | CURRENTS

contributors EDITORS Heather Manes CO EDITOR Haley Odorizzi ASSISTANT EDITOR Giulia Scotti

PHOTOGRAPHY Ashton Bowles PHOTO EDITOR Houston Costa ART PHOTOGRAPHER Harrison Yager Genevieve Smith ON CAMPUS Stephanie Nelson Haley Odorizzi Eunice Kim Heather Manes Stan Parker ADVISORS Sonya Singh Elizabeth Smith Jennifer Gardner OFF CAMPUS Niles Jeran TECHNOLOGY Sarah Attar Tech Central Stephanie Nelson Giulia Scotti SPORTS Kayla Ferguson FOOD Karley Osborn Derek Jech Anna Kennedy Eunice Kim Hayley Decker DESIGN Owen Lloyd Heather Manes Haley Odorizzi MODELS Giulia Scotti Tucker Alleborn Danielle Kim Joelle Takahashi COPY EDITOR SPECIAL THANKS TO Aubrey Hoeppner Tim Nguyen Graphic staff ONLINE Starbucks Kayla Ferguson EDITOR

on our cover The inspiration for our Spring 2011 photo shoot is Indiana Jones. Tucker Alleborn models as Indiana and Joelle Takahashi as our damselle. Photographer Houston Costa shot the photos at the Old L.A. Zoo at Griffith park. Jewelry provided

by Rochelle Gordon.

An adventure

in your own backyard

Adventures always start somewhere. Usually, it’s right where we’re standing. Finding that small, golden clue can be enough to point us in the right direction. Here on campus, we have real-life heroes and other students forging their own paths to serve as our hints to venture off the grid.

Photos by Houston Costa Jewelry courtesy of Era Jewelry by Rochelle Gordon Models: Joelle Takahashi & Tucker Alleborn

on campus life >

Volunteers:

They walk among us: average citizens who don capes of compassion and sacrifice during the day and night to battle injustice, hunger, poverty, illiteracy and sickness. They call themselves Volunteers.

By Haley Odorizzi These are the unpaid heroes of our time. And at Pepperdine University, they come in the form of students. Some build houses for the homeless or teach English to non-English speakers. Others can be found teaching the undereducated, and still more are spotted providing food and comfort to the hungry.

Emily McNally’s volunteer work comes in the form of yoga with kids.

This is her second semester directing the Yogacore program at Pepperdine.

Emily, a junior Public Relations major – with no previous yoga experience – provides lessons to more than two-dozen 3 and 6 year olds in need of role models.

Yogacore works with low-income schools where physical education classes have been cut from the California budget. On Wednesdays, the volunteers go to John Muir Elementary School in Santa Monica, and Friday classes are at Westside Children’s Center in Culver City.

This program targets both physical and health education, is a nonprofit that has only been in existence for two years and is in its first year as a Pepperdine volunteer program.

When Emily applied to work with Pepperdine’s Volunteer Center, she didn’t expect to be asked to direct a program right off the bat, but she stepped up to the plate with a willing spirit.

“It was difficult having to learn the yoga at the same time as the volunteers,” Emily admitted. “But this semester it’s easier.”

Yoga for young children may seem a little unusual, but these physical movements are specially geared for a young audience. Emily described the typical order of events.

“We start out with a high energy workout – such as an interpretive ‘pizza party.’ It is a creative, fun activity that engages them in the beginning.

“Then we go into actual yoga poses – some real, like ‘Downward Dog’, and some kid-friendly originals, like ‘Lion.’

The moves are meant to help them learn balance and focus.”

The last segment of the session is a 8 | on campus

relaxation time where the volunteers read a story to the kids. This gives the youngsters a chance to calm down and “center” themselves.

Yoga is not the only activity the kids enjoy during their weekly sessions with the volunteers. They also love to share.

And that’s one of the best parts of the experience, according to Emily.

“You can see how in need the kids are of someone to share with, begging to tell us what had gone on in their day. The other day, one kid had to tell me their name and that they went to Disneyland.

They are so eager to share because their parents aren’t always around.”

This type of intangible reward is what draws Emily to volunteer. She has been involved in various volunteer activities since she was a young kid, such as working in her church’s café. With a passion for non-profit work, Emily realized Pepperdine University would be a perfect fit in her journey to accomplish her dreams.

She has even chosen to minor in NonProfit Management.

“Volunteering is strong at Pepperdine, so it’s the perfect place for me,” Emily says. “It set me on the path to work with nonprofits and has given me experience.”

Emily’s experience has impacted her personal life, as well.

“The Yogacore experience, and being around kids in general, brings me back to reality,” she explained. “Usually college students don’t have access to small children. This lightens my day and brings me back to what life is really about – it’s not all studying and hard work.”

Emily hopes that other students, too, will take time away from their studying and busy lives to make a difference in the life of a child, who is in need of someone to look up to and give them at-

Real-Life Superheroes Al, Program Coordinator for “Unit- each activity with a theme that teaches ed Friends” — a program that works a lesson or purpose.

But Al said he finds inspiration in the with United Cerebral Palsy – is only a sophomore. He volunteered with UF as hard work and tenacity the clients have a freshman, and decided to take on the within them.

“Initially, it might be hard, but the leader responsibilities this year.

“Being a leader involves more research whole experience changes how you see and trying to understand why clients life,” Al said. “There are a lot of small things we complain have their disabilities about, but being so I can choose certain If you treat them with there and seeing all activities to do with the barriers and obthem,” Al explained. a special love, they will stacles clients have “There are so many remember. to face and how they levels of disabilities, overcome is so enso I’ve learned to separate the disabilities and create activities couraging. I admire their fight.”

Al’s admiration and compassion for geared toward that specific one.”

Each week, Al creates and prepares the disabled developed at a young age. an activity for his clients, ranging from Born in Brazil, Al wasn’t introduced crafts and board games, to themed days to traditional volunteering until he bewhere they carve pumpkins for Hallow- gan high school in the United States een, make ornaments for Christmas, or and participated in mandatory comwrite cards for Valentine’s Day. Some- munity service. He became involved in times, the volunteers can attend field Best Buddies — a program that creates trips where they go to the movie theatre opportunities to establish one-on-one

“ ”

photo by Harrison Yager

tention and encouragement.

Since coming to Pepperdine and immersing herself in the world of volunteering, she already knows where she wants her passion to lead her. Emily’s dream, after graduating, is to work at the Los Angeles branch for the MakeA-Wish Foundation and work directly with the families.

Volunteering, Emily says, has given her a great deal of fulfillment. And little do people know that as they walk past her every day, this girl is making the world a better place as she helps to make children healthy and happy.

Interacting with children might not be everybody’s forte. Take Al Lai, for example, who has ventured a different route on the path of volunteerism. He has a special passion for people with disabilities and spends every Saturday morning at two group homes in Westlake Village that care for adults with Cerebral Palsy and Down syndrome.

photo courtesy of United Friends

or to a Pepperdine basketball game.

Al’s gift for creativity has come in handy. When he first began leading the program, he thought that coming up with a fresh activity each week would be his biggest challenge. But instead, he discovered that creating something new is his forte. And he makes sure to tie

friendships with people who have mental disabilities.

After completing his required community service, Al discovered his passion for non-profit work. At the end of his sophomore year, he organized “House our Art,” which provided a space for all types of artists to display their pieces.

The money received from fundraisers was used to send supplies for schools in Ghana and Brazil.

“Service is a part of me,” Al said.

He is majoring in Integrated Marketing Communication and Media Productions, which he hopes will aid him in pursuing his passion to own a non-profit organization.

“I want to help kids who have a passion for entertainment,” Al said. “My non-profit will provide free lessons for underprivileged kids.”

And it won’t end there.

“I would love to fund their first work.

So I would give them support and get them started, not just teach them and say goodbye.”

This type of attitude is what keeps Al volunteering.

“I know [this program] is tough because it’s people with disabilities and it can be awkward,” Al explained. “The first time can be challenging, but when they come back, they feel rewarded. A lot of volunteers have created connections and the clients teach volunteers lessons too.”

United Friends is a special experience that Al says he hopes other students will try out.

“I think the biggest rumor that people believe is that people with Cerebral Palsy don’t remember. But they have feelings and they do remember.”

Al recalls one of his favorite memories while working with United Friends.

It was when he heard one client named Sharon say these simple words: “I love you, Al.” She is the only client that remembers his name, rather than calling him “Friend,” like the other clients.

“If you treat them with a special love, they will remember.”

Chloe Smith, a senior, also works to express a special love: a love for the misunderstood and the disregarded.

She spends about 15 hours a week mentoring and tutoring juvenile criminals at Camp David Gonzales. Chloe began on campus | 9

volunteering there during her first year at Pepperdine. As the blonde-haired girl with a prevalent Texan accent spoke her first “Hey y’all!” as she entered the cold cafeteria with the goal of helping minors learn how to read better, she had no idea how that place would end up changing her own life.

For about an hour each week, Chloe, along with several other student volunteers, would sit at a frigid, metal table across from a young man who had a drastically different past from her own.

The purpose of the Monday night program was to help the boys increase their reading levels so they would be better prepared when they are released, and hopefully continue their education.

But her one-on-one experience was different. Rather than spending the hour reading, Chloe couldn’t help but just talk to the boy she was assigned. She showed an interest in his life and in his future – something not many people had ever done for him. And that’s where it began for Chloe. She had found a place where

she could make a difference. ter going there, I can’t not go there now,” After interning at Camp David Chloe explained. “I can’t go there and throughout her junior year, Chloe had witness what is going on and then not go discovered her passion. The psychology back every day and do something – even major, who had originally planned on if I get one kid to do math that day.” becoming a marriage counselor, decided Chloe acts as a tutor, mentor and that her new dream was to work in a friend to the incarcerated young men juvenile correctional facility as either a at Camp David. With her help, numerprobation officer or ous boys have passed the mental health counGED. With her encourI wasn’t kidding in selor. agement, many boys have there, Chloe.

You really Chloe, now a seapplied and been acceptare changing my life. nior and the coored to attend junior coldinator for Camp leges after their release.

David’s volunteer program, still works Because of her ability to listen, countless four days a week at the facility. She plans more have been able to open up about to attend the University of North Texas their lives and future goals. And thanks and obtain a Master’s degree in Criminal to Chloe, several boys have eaten their Justice. first Christmas cookies that were baked “After being exposed to that popula- especially for them. tion, I believe this is a group of society “I ain’t never had a cookie with a scarf that people have forgotten,” Chloe said. on it,” said one boy as he bit into his “It may not be intentional, but it’s hap- snowman-decorated sugar cookie that pening.”

Chloe had stayed up late baking.

She has taken it upon herself to give “Nobody ever made me a cookie beattention to this “forgotten” group. “Af- fore,” another admitted quietly under

“

”

photo by Haley Odorizzi

10 | on campus

his breath.

“People like him don’t know how to accept this kind of love and care,” Chloe explained. “Many don’t feel deserving of it, or worth it.”

Chloe described another boy who sat in the back of the classroom with an expression of brokenness. At 6-foot-five, he appeared intimidating, but never spoke a word. His teachers saw his silence as disrespect, but Chloe saw beyond his wall.

She knew something was wrong.

One day, she walked up to him and asked if he was interested in taking the GED test. Then he spoke the first word she had ever heard him say.

“Yes.” It didn’t take long for him to begin opening up to Chloe and sharing the story of his past. He had just needed someone to take the initiative – and that’s what Chloe was born to do.

During a session where the boys were able to give feedback to the administration, tears streamed down this boy’s face as he told Chloe in front of the class, “You’re the first person who still wanted to get to know me after knowing what I’ve done.”

That’s because Chloe lives by this motto: “We are a whole lot bigger than the worst thing we’ve ever done.” She got this phrase from Father Gregory Boyle, author of the book “Tattoos on the Heart.”

“Gregory Boyle is my hero,” says Chloe. Boyle is the creator of Homeboy Industries – an organization that provides jobs, training and encouragement to young people in a neighborhood with the highest concentration of gang activity in Los Angeles. She was able to meet her hero a couple months ago, which was a dream of hers. She has used his experience as inspiration and guidance in her own work with juveniles.

When others would freeze and become speechless as a boy describes the day his “homie” was shot right in front of his eyes, Chloe always knows the right thing to say. In fact, the young men will often walk in the door and head straight

to the back table where Chloe is waiting.

When that happens, she knows he has had a rough week and just needs to talk.

“I just ask if they are OK. I make an effort. I always remember that as much as they look and act so different, and even seem intimidating at times, we are all the same.

“All of us – white, black, Mexican, poor, rich – want to be validated. Everybody wants to be heard and given respect. In gangs, you have to prove that you are worthy and do certain things to earn their respect. They are so receptive to someone who – without any expectation – wants to hear about their day. And once you get on common ground, you can say anything.”

The connection Chloe has made with the boys at Camp David is very special to her. She describes, with tears in her eyes, how difficult it will be to leave the facility for the last time when she graduates at the end of April. It has become such a huge part of her life.

“Camp David has brought me fullcircle,” Chloe explains. During high school, she had volunteered with Impact, a church in her hometown of Houston, and also participated in inner-city mission trips to New Orleans and Pensacola, Florida.

“I always have felt this connection to inner-city but I never knew where this would take me,” said Chloe. “But when I came to Camp David, all that started to resonate. I knew this is what I was meant to do.”

One day, a minor asked Chloe if it ever bothered her “to be around all these criminals.” But before she had a chance to answer, one of the other boys answered for her.

“Naw man, she don’t think we’re criminals. She loves us. She just thinks we’re good kids who made a bad choice.”

It’s those moments in which Chloe knows she is making a difference in their lives. After helping one kid with his scholarship letter for “Beat the Odds,” he told her, “I was thinking that I don’t know how I could have gotten through

all this scholarship stuff without you.”

Then, a while later when Chloe was leaving for the day, the same kid stopped her and said, “I wasn’t kidding in there, Chloe. You really are changing my life.”

The hardest part of her experiences, Chloe shares, is that “Unless they get killed or come back or get sent to another jail, we may never hear from them again.”

“A lot of hope is involved,” she explained. “We just have to keep hoping that they stay on the right path.”

Chloe has gained the respect of these young criminals and receives numerous letters each month, in which boys express their sincere gratitude for all she has done and promise to begin a more productive future.

Over the past few years volunteering at Camp David, Chloe has seen many boys come and go. Some boys return to jail or get sent to state prison. But others are doing well. One was just accepted to Pierce College with a scholarship. Another is working as a chef at a restaurant.

“The sad truth,” Chloe says, “is that I know most of them are not going to fall into the path I would hope for. But just knowing that one kid is going to college or quit a gang makes it all worth it.”

So Chloe returns each day with a bright smile and looks forward to those moments that make it all “worth it.”

These volunteers know firsthand that what they do is worth every second. And they represent many other students who are quietly changing lives in powerful ways.

They don’t do it for the glory or money or fame. These heroes go about their lives, fighting social injustices, serving the underprivileged, teaching the undereducated, and mending the broken spirits. Emily makes children happy and fit, while Al does fun activities with disabled adults, and Chloe sits in a classroom and explains the Pythagorean theorem so juvies can pass their GED. All three, by their actions, are convincing their fellow-humans they are valuable to this world. 

"Knowledge calls ultimately for a life of service." on campus | 11

photo by Harrison Yager

Stand out from the crowd: Your dream internship doesn’t have to be in your resume’s hands. Three successful students share their advice on how to stand out and, ultimately, land that perfect internship. By Heather Manes

T

he real world looms right outside of Pepperdine’s heavily fortified gates, safely held at bay by our rugged security guards.

It’s daunting to think about, especially knowing that it’s T minus 4 years until we’re kicked out into its cold, apathetic hands.

Luckily, there’s a process to ease us out into the working world. It’s called an internship.

However, finding an internship can be just as daunting. Scaling the CCB stairs on a Saturday morning in 90 degree heat sounds more appealing. But with a little work (well OK, a lot of work), finding an internship — even a dream internship — may not be as out of reach as it seems.

“It’s something that can be the highlight of your undergrad experience,” said Nancy Shatzer, Career Center internship coordinator regarding internships.

And here at Pepperdine, students inherently have two very important factors that other students across the nation don’t: location and reputation. Los Angeles is right in Pepperdine’s backyard, providing students with an excess of internship options across a variety of fields. In addition, Pepperdine’s reputa12 | on campus

tion within Los Angeles and its major corporations is well-established.

According to Shatzer, the average student completes between one and three internships during his or her undergraduate career.

“Students offered spots at highly competitive internships are probably not first-time interns,” Shatzer said. For the dream internship, starting small and working your way up through connections in the industry and with other students is how to end up with the big companies.

Shatzer also suggests starting with the Career Center, “I really think there are so many pieces and facets to the internship experience that students really need to get help with that process. We can help them with how to best present yourself to different employers, resume building, and we cold-call firms on behalf of students.”

CBS and Disney are two firms that have had conversations with Shatzer about what they look for most in internship candidates. First, a “killer cover letter,” will help a student stand out.

Second, passion for the company and knowledge about the company adds to a candidate’s likelihood of an offer. Third,

they look for what qualifies the student for the position and what academic preparation they can tie into the experience.

So, what’s the best way to get started?

Well, Shatzer suggests seven key tips: 1. Start preparing your first and second year at Pepperdine by getting involved in clubs and campus organizations, particularly volunteer work.

2. Start earlier rather than later— don’t put it off.

3. Look thoroughly at all the options.

4. Change your phone message to sound professional.

5. Be aware of what can be seen on your Facebook or other social media.

6. Be well-prepared for an interview.

7. Write a thank you note after an interview.

Three students in particular have been successful in landing enviable internships. Take a look at what they do now, and how they got there:

After interning with two jewelry companies, a public relations firm in London and Mandate pictures, fashion guru Lucia Valerio decided to apply to be a style ambassador for Marie Claire magazine. The Italian native now works as an official “advice-giver” for Marie Claire.

How did you get the position at about ourselves and what we observe about the people around us.

Marie Claire?

What about you do you think “Last January, I was on the website and there was a link that said if you stood out?

“Honesty. For Mandate pictures, I are interested in fashion, apply to be a had a production major friend who had style counsel member for the magazine.

I clicked on it... I went through and applied there and didn’t get it. So I was submitted it, and after a month I got just about not to go, I thought they another email that said I passed to the probably won’t want me, but I just went; second round which was short answer... I I figured it was good interview practice.

And as it turned out, was just really honest...

What we feel like we It’s created a habit in everything just clicked and worked out. I was should answer might me... in terms of dedicatreally honest with her, not be what they’re aling time every day to live and that I didn’t really ways looking for. out my passion. know movies all that About a month later, well, but I wanted to I made it to the third test the waters and see what this field round, which was making a video. It and it had to be 30 seconds where you was like. It was the same with Marie basically disclose who you are as an in- Claire; I was just really honest. You redividual… I did that on iMovie. I didn’t ally don’t know unless you try.”

What do you like best about your hear from them for about two months, and then they said I had made it to the position?

“The fact that it has created a habit last round, which was a phone interview.

About a month and a half later, I found in me. A positive habit in terms of dedicating time every day to live out my out I was selected.”

What do you do for Marie Claire? passion… It’s made me a lot more open “It’s a virtual internship, which is with people, going to different places I cool, because it gives me the freedom to wouldn’t have gone to before; it’s made go out and do internships here in L.A. and be able to work at home. It’s a new program they just launched; it’s not too time consuming, they just email you and ask you to come to local events… They email you from time to time to fill out surveys to see whether what they are forecasting fashion-wise months prior is actually following through...

The cool part is they also really motivate us to journal what we observe around us fashion-wise; beauty products, restaurants, places to visit, things you like to do, ideas you have, blogs you see that interest you, job opportunities you find, contacts you make at events…

It allows you to open up your eyes and really live through your passion.

They’ll also send us the covers to the magazine before they print to ask us which we like best and give us issues for free... Really we just report back to them

“

”

me more embracing of what we’re surrounded with…

And every internship has made me feel more and more confident about myself and more valued for what I do... I know that my work is valued and I am valued. It helps me really feel for myself that I am a valuable person because it all comes down to how you see yourself…

And knowing what’s genuine and natural is beautiful.”

What’s your biggest advice to students searching for an internship?

“Look on the internet, it has everything now a days, but you really have to look daily. And when you see an opportunity, don’t be scared. If worst comes to worst, it won’t happen. Dream big, be humble, keep it personal… Believe in your abilities and who you are. Also, confidence, for sure, and willingness...

I’ve been raised to do thing self-sufficiently. If [my parents] catered to me all the time, I’d be scared to go out there and try to do anything myself… You can succeed no matter what you set your mind to as long as you are honest and you are passionate.” 

Lucia Valerio Senior, Marie Claire intern Advertising major and Industrial Organization Psychology minor

photo by Houston Costa on campus | 13

Amir Mohamadzadeh

photo courtesy of Amir Mohamadzadeh

Senior, Lakers intern Business major, Marketing minor

For Amir Mohamadzadeh, landing an internship with the Lakers was simply a matter of confidence. After interning with Kauffman Sports Management and L.A. Sports Commission, and as the president and founder of Pepperdine Sports Business Association, he knew he had the skills necessary for the job. All that was missing was a simple introduction.

How did you get your internship?

“Well, I am the president and founder of Pepperdine Sports Business Association (SBA) and we work with West Coast Sports Associates, which is a nonprofit organization that helps intercity children get involved with sports. One time, we were at a dinner they were hosting. This one guy was there and it just so happened he worked for the Lakers.

I went up and introduced myself and I told him about my passions my interests and career path and asked him if there were any internships available... He told me to keep in contact and send him a resume and we’ll go from there.

About every month or two I’d send an email updating him on what I was doing… It came by July and I sent him my 14 | on campus

most updated resume and he forwarded it to my current boss... I sent that person my cover letter, and told them all of the qualities that I have that can make a positive impact on the Lakers. It’s all about adding value. You get picked as an intern if you’re the one they believe can add the most value to the organization.”

What do you do as an intern?

“I am the corporate partnership intern. So I support all the corporate partnerships. The Lakers have a certain number of sponsors: there’s Toyota, Verizon, Nike, Gatorade. So we put together proposals and our sales team actually presents to [the sponsors] the benefits of sponsoring the Lakers. I do a lot of background marketing research... It involves a lot of the marketing strategy so basi-

cally coming up with different proposals for sponsors.

I also help organize events. Say we do a half court shot at half-time at a select number of games; one of our strategies was having a sponsor like Mirage Casino sponsor the half court shot where someone can win $100,000. That’s attracting all the attention from the audience... so it’s great publicity… Or, a lot of time there is post game player appearances.

So I’ll take a reception of Mirage executives and bring them down to the court, have them meet the players and shoot around with them. But it changes from day to day.”

What do you like most about your internship?

“I really love the energy. In the office, everyone is really energetic and ambitious… And the Lakers are committed to excellence; committed to being the best.

And I align perfectly to that mission. So, I like that our goals are the same. The Lakers want to be excellent and I want to be excellent in everything I do.”

What’s your biggest advice to students searching for an internship?

“I would say that you must be passionate about what you do. You have to really want it. You have to be confident and willing to always be improving. If I’m passionate about marketing strategy for the Lakers, then I am going to be consistently learning and improving.

Also, there’s this quote I tell a lot of people. It goes: ‘If you’re not improving every single day, you’re wasting your most valuable asset, which is time.’ It’s a motto I go by and its gotten me places.

It’s allowed me to reach my goals.”

How can you become a successful intern?

“Going above and beyond what’s asked of you. At the Lakers for example, when I first started, a lot of the assignments I got were simple at first… So I started asking everyone in my department to give me more responsibilities because I wanted to be challenged. Since I’ve done that I’ve gotten way more responsibilities, and I’ve met a lot more people not only in my department, but also in other parts of the business.” 

Currently working as an intern for E! Entertainment Television, Gerilyn Manago started her first of six internships at home in Hawaii for Hawai’i Red Magazine. She moved on to World Telecom Group that fall, then to 944 magazine, then Bravo, then Tiger Beat and Bop magazine during last fall.

Though unpaid, she’s still found ample worth in each internship experience.

What motivated you to get started early?

“Well, I applied for a couple on-campus jobs freshman year, which didn’t really turn into anything. I was looking to get more involved because in high school I was always doing extracurricular activities... so I was looking for something to do besides school. It wasn’t until my sophomore year that a lot of my friends started to go through the recruiting process [for internships] as business majors, so I figured it was a good time to start.”

How did you find your internships?

“For my Hawai’i Red internship… I started by looking in magazines, online, and for specific email addresses or phone numbers. It was a lot of searching.

For World Telecom Group, I found through the Pepperdine internship website… I actually found most of my internships through the website. But I did have a supervisor at World Telecom Group who connected me to someone she had known from her previous job to an editor at Tiger Beat and Bop magazine. It didn’t directly turn into an internship, but she told me to keep in touch and maybe something will come up in the future, which it did.

For this semester at E!, I actually met one of my current bosses through my supervisor at Bravo… and I ended up at E!.”

What was your favorite internship?

“I really liked the fast paced environment of working at 944, although it was challenging at first because there was not a lot of direction... The low level of direction gave me more trust and allowed me to be more creative. From that experience, I learned how to adapt to different situations really quickly and be more of an observer… I really got a sense of ‘oh I really like this industry and I really like these people.’”

How do you think doing six internships has helped you?

“I think that the one thing beneficial

Gerilyn Manago Senior, E! intern English major, Professional and Academic Writing minor

photo by Ashton Bowles

from internships is you really figure out what you like and what you don’t like from an internship, which is really valuable. When you graduate and go into the work force, you don’t have that flexibility to decide after you sign the papers and take your first paycheck ‘oh it isn’t for me, I don’t really like this environment, and I don’t care for people here.’ It provides you opportunity to make mistakes early on and see what you like and don’t like.”

What’s your biggest piece of advice to students looking for an internship?

“For one, you have to be willing to do anything almost. I feel like the things you think might not mean a lot, might actually be helping out someone else in the company a lot, and might be the one

determining factor that makes you stand out among all the other interns. So, for instance, when you go to lunch, asking your boss ‘do you need anything, or can I pick you up coffee?’ and taking the initiative to go above and beyond. I feel like it’s really important to be willing.

Also, definitely go in with an open mind... It’s not until you are in the actual company that you learn maybe this industry or environment is not for me. It’ll help you not be susceptible to getting down on yourself if it doesn’t work out.

It’s also really important to maintain connections with the people you meet.

It really is the backbone behind a career.

So every three months, sending an email to a former supervisor updating them on what you’re doing… it can lead to future employment opportunities.”  on campus | 15

spotlight

to

candlelight:

He’s an Oscar-nominated screenwriter, written seven New York Times bestsellers, had a cameo on “Entourage” (as himself), and has a black belt: Who wouldn’t want to take a class with Randall Wallace?

D

By Stan Parker & Sonya Singh | Photo by Genevieve Smith

esks lie empty and forgotten, scattered around the edges of the classroom. The darkness is broken only by the flickering candlelight, revealing a class seated on the floor in a circle, listening to the wisdom and stories of their instructor.

Believe it or not, this is a pretty typical Monday evening in CAC 301, where wizened Hollywood veteran Randall Wallace transforms a boring classroom into a laboratory for creativity and imagination.

Wallace, the Oscar-nominated writer behind “Braveheart,” “Pearl Harbor” and “The Man in the Iron Mask,” taught his popular screenwriting class at Pepperdine for the third time this semester.

Having a household name as a teacher is cool enough as it is, but Wallace backs up his fame by giving his students not a lecture, but an interactive experience.

16 | on campus

“He’s a very dynamic teacher,” senior Kaylani Esparza said, “unlike any I’ve ever had ... He’s really passionate about his students.”

Wallace’s stories-by-candlelight method, which he introduced spontaneously in his first semester here, breaks up the monotony in students’ busy lives and multiple-hour blocks of class, he says.

“It seemed to me that students were finding the Q&A a little bit formal, like sitting there under the fluorescent lights seemed to make them feel self-conscious about their questions,” Wallace said. “I wanted to get at the internal process of writing. The mechanics you can find anywhere, but to learn through an experience of creativity, to give yourself permission to fail... is a crucial part of the process.”

And as a passionate storyteller, Wallace says this is the closest he can get to simulating the atmosphere of the first

storytellers — ancient tribes that would sit around their campfires at night and tell the stories that formed their very identities.

“The thought of the candles and sitting in a circle is that that’s where movies really came from,” Wallace explained.

“Tribal people would tell stories around a campfire, and they didn’t tell stories except when they felt safe and together.

And stories evolve based on how the audience is reacting. There’s interplay between the storyteller and the audience; the audience is creating the story too.”

Wallace realizes the chances of his students becoming professional storytellers are low, but hopes that his instruction will carry on in other ways: “[I hope] no matter what they do … they will all have a different relationship to hearing their own muse and testing their own hearts.” 

Finding

a hidden navigator

An extraordinary adventurer must find a handy way to decipher the treasure map in order to finally reach X-marks-the-spot. What good is an explorer without a compass? College students, like any good thrill-seeker, need to be equipped with the best tools and technology to accomplish their academic journey with ease and success.

technology >

’s

best technology for college students

By Tech Central | Photos courtesy of Apple, Canon & Sony

In the wide world of technology, it's easy to get lost in the coded clutter. With a little help from the experts, however, finding the best piece of technology for a college student can be as easy as pi.

18 | technology

laptop: macbook pro For realistic buyers, Apple is making amazing products right now. Their laptops are top of the line and lead consumer-satisfaction ratings, along with customer support across the board for both desktops and laptops. Our hands-down recommendation for a laptop today is the Apple MacBook Pro (pick your own size — 13, 15 or 17 inches). These computers are built with superior quality, superior support and friendly software (speed, efficiency and security). If you really want

to run Windows, there’s nothing stopping you from doing so; we certainly run both operating systems on our Macs. If you’re a Pepperdine student thinking about buying a Mac, check with your academic program’s office to make sure that using a Mac will not interfere with your classes. Regardless of your brand of laptop, you should check with Tech Central/The Computer Store before buying Microsoft software. We sell Office and Windows for super-cheap prices.

tablet: ipad cell phone: iphone 4

Of all of the phones currently on the market, we cannot recommend the iPhone 4 highly enough. Now that it is available on both AT&T and Verizon, users have access to the two strongest cell phone signals on campus. The App Store is second to none in providing users with the best in mobile apps, both free and paid. Syncing with computers allows for quick updating and merging of information, apps and music. The iPhone is an excellent all-in-one electronic device, allowing you to receive emails, play music and videos, take pictures and video, keep a calendar, IM and, of course, make phone calls. With a new contract, the iPhone 4 runs for about $200 for the 16GB model, but you must purchase a data plan on either of the networks. If possible, we suggest that you wait to see what Apple unveils this summer; they have released a new version of the iPhone every summer since 2007.

Just to be clear, this recommendation concerns tablet devices such as the iPad and the Motorola Xoom — not netbooks, which are essentially small, less powerful laptops. In our opinion, the best tablet on the market is the iPad because of its huge App Store, amazing hardware and smooth interface.

Apple is on the forefront of innovating technology and delivering a uniform product from day one. An iPad can supplement a laptop, not replace one. Buying an iPad is only encouraged if you really can make good use of it. If you end up deciding to get a tablet, the iPad is the one to get.

camera: canon rebel t2i For those looking for a quality camera we recommend Canon’s Rebel T2i. It has an 18-megapixel APS-C image sensor that’s similar to the Canon 7D and has the same 1080p/full video capabilities. The T2i has a great screen that allows for a 3:2 aspect ratio, letting you see your picture uncropped. There is enough brightness to use in daylight along with a near-180-degree viewing angle, allowing you to see the screen in real time

when shooting video in Live View. It has the same mode dial as the standard Canon point-and-shoot, and shortcut buttons to allow you to change any parameters you need to. This camera has some heavy-duty photography specs that include 18-megapixel resolution, flexible shutter speeds, Red Eye Reduction and optical stabilization. It also comes with a good selection of lenses and sells for about $850 on Amazon.com.

technology | 19

web browser: google chrome In this category, we have another awesome Google product: Chrome.

While you’re upgrading your e-mail, go ahead and switch to this as well. Chrome is extremely lean, enabling it to run quickly. Consistent with its functionality, Chrome’s aesthetic is clean and minimal, leaving lots of room for the actual webpage to take center stage.

email: gmail Gmail offers incredible strength with the ability to sync to all of your personal devices. Furthermore, when you create a Google account, you gain access to Google Docs (a web-based MS Office substitute), Google Voice (for managing services related to your phone), Google Calendar and all of the other free Google products. So, go ahead and forward your e-mails to Gmail and upgrade.

20 | technology

game system: ps3 Ah yes, the more luxurious portion of technology. This was a highly contended issue among us, with still some filing dissenting opinions, but we came down to recommending a PlayStation 3. The Wii does have its purposes and is a great deal of fun for watching friends and family humiliate themselves at a get-together. Unfortunately, its inability to play DVDs still bewilders many of us, and its lack of processing power and non-HD graphics is, by this point, downright annoying. Of course, these drawbacks haven’t kept it from becoming the best-selling console in the United States. The Xbox 360 has the most reliable servers for online play

and a massive user base. The Xbox-exclusive titles don’t pack as much punch as the PS3, but the Xbox is still a great system; and Microsoft’s new add-on, the Kinect, is by far the best motionbased gaming utility, though it is still new and in need of improvement. That brings us to our decision on the PS3.

With literally twice the processing power of the 360, much better media support and that beautiful thing called Blu-ray, the PS3 is quite the machine.

The kicker is that it’s also the best deal — for the time being — with a 320GB hard drive, Sony’s motion detection ... thing (PlayStation Move) and a game for $399.

These recommendations are the personal opinions of the Tech Central staff, not official guidelines for student purchases. Of course, there will be plenty of disagreement among techies about these types of devices (especially regarding game consoles), and we welcome the discussion that comes along with that. As you may have noticed, Apple products were featured prominently in our reviews. We thought about changing our recommendations to spice things up, but when it came down to it, we had to agree that our honest opinions led us unanimously to select those devices. At the moment, some of the best hardware out there is Apple, hands-down. If you have questions about these recommendations or anything technology-related, feel free to come visit us on the second floor of the Payson Library.

Climbing

&

above beyond

Any journey requires inner and outter strength and skill. To overcome barriers larger than ourselves, we need steadfast teammates to lean on.

And it’s surprising just how strong they can be. There’s much more worth to a player or a team than just simple statistics.

sports >

off campus | 321

mentioned facts, I will make the bold In Davis’ (and a first-round draft assertion that the Clippers are the pick’s) place, the Clippers acquired Mo NBA’s “hidden treasure,” so to speak. Williams and Jamario Moon from the And they play right here in our own Cavs, whose “veteran” experience cubackyard. mulatively equates to less than that of You used to be able to get Clippers Davis. tickets for less than $10. They practiSo if the Clippers are indeed looking cally gave them away for free. But Clip- younger, they need look no further. And pers tickets have seen a significant in- it’s probably safe to say that the cumucrease since the team lative salaries of Wilhas made itself a The fact that Clippers liams and Moon, who force to be reckoned aren’t at the top of tickets cost nearly triple the list of recognized with. I (along with most of you) am not a what they did last season names, also equate to must mean the Clippers fan of expensive outless than that of Daare, well, good. ings, but let’s be honvis. Seems like a winest: Here in America, win. expensive is quasi-synonymous with In the short term, Davis’ departure high quality. So the fact that Clippers could have minor negative consequenctickets cost nearly triple what they did es. But in the long term, the Clippers last season must mean the Clippers are, have the ability to turn into a young, well, good. refurbished team with a lot of potenGriffin deserves most of the credit tial and minimal salary cap restrictions, for this turnaround, but even though something they couldn’t flaunt with the Clippers are better referred to as Davis on the roster. “the Blake Griffin team and his sideThe Clippers have acquired a lot of kicks” at this point in the game (pun talent over the past two seasons. So intended), numerous other players on why don’t they have more fans? That is the team are worthy of recognition. a question for the ages and one that is Three other rookies, Al-Farouq difficult to answer.

Aminu, Eric Bledsoe and Willie WarIf anyone can recall the 1998–1999 ren, are all contributors to the “rebuild- Nuggets roster, stacked with Nick Van ing phase” the Clippers are currently ex- Exel, Chauncey Billups and Antonio periencing. They may not be averaging McDyess, you will also be able to recall 22.4 points per game like Griffin is, but their embarrassingly bad 14-36 record basketball is a team sport, right? Rook- (the season was shortened from 82 to 50 ies and rebuilding go hand in hand. games due to a lockout). The Clippers And we can’t forget about guard Eric this season are the revamped (and more Gordon, who is averaging 23.7 points than slightly better) Nuggets of 1999. and 4.4 assists per game this season, Talented, but not superior. Statusdespite sustaining a wrist injury late worthy, but not popular. That doesn’t in January. Forwards, like Griffin, are mean they aren’t worth watching. nothing without a successful guard, It would be tough to argue that the like Gordon. Before being dealt to the Clippers will ever reach the level of Cleveland Cavaliers at the Feb. 24 trade popularity the Lakers have sustained deadline, 11-year veteran guard Baron for more than a decade.

Davis was contributing an average of We can argue, though, that the Clip10 points and 8.1 assists in the 10-game pers have made a comeback this season stretch before the trade. His stats were and have turned into a team worth all right, but were they worth a $14 mil- talking about. Thanks to Griffin and lion contract? The Clippers obviously his sidekicks, the Clippers are arguably didn’t think so, which must mean one the NBA’s — and L.A.’s — great “hidthing: The Clippers have a lot of faith den treasure.” Next season, we should in their future as a young team. expect great things from them. 

“

an

overshadowed

N

ATION The Lakers have long been a source of pride for Los Angelenos. However, one team long hidden behind the Lakers shadow is taking the city by surprise.

By Kayla Ferguson | Photo by Harrison Yager

22 | sports

For sports fans everywhere, Los Angeles is “Laker Nation.”

And — who are we kidding? — it probably always will be. But that doesn’t mean there’s not another team worth following, a team that has gone virtually unnoticed in a basketball-crazed city (no, I don’t think L.A. should get an NFL team) that bleeds purple and yellow. That team is the Los Angeles Clippers. Ever heard of ’em?

Thanks to rookie Blake Griffin — whom you may remember from his dunk over the Kia in the All-Star Slam Dunk Contest, if nothing else

— the Clippers have managed to put themselves on the NBA map this year.

That’s not to say they weren’t there before. They were just a lot smaller “nation.”

At the close of the 2009–2010 season, the Clippers “boasted” a dismal 29-53 record. It doesn’t take a mathematician to figure out that is way below .500, which ultimately means the fan base was lacking, at best. (And I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that the Clippers also lacked a player of Kobe’s caliber, both status- and skill-wise.)

In March of the 2010–2011 season, the Clippers still had a losing record (28-44) and were eliminated from playoff contention. But they did beat the Lakers. And they do have Blake Griffin.

This means they have fans now, even if they are of the bandwagon sort and only know the team from “SportsCenter” highlights of Griffin’s dunks. Again, you have to start somewhere.

After a simple look at these afore-

”

sports | 23

setting the

pace

Sign language isn’t exactly a team sport.

But for sophomore Maurice Torres, it’s as much a part of his life as volleyball, allowing him to become a role model across both spectrums.

By Karley Osborn Photos by Ashton Bowles If you walk into a sports bar and grill in a few years and find a menu based mainly on Philly cheese steaks and carefully drizzled chocolate-covered strawberries, you’ll know you’ve found Maurice Torres’ restaurant. And if he’s working the front of the house that evening, he may brag a little about his Philly sandwich, a creation he first put together at age 16 — his family members swear it compares to genuine Philadelphia fare. But don’t worry. That’s the only time you would catch this member of the junior national volleyball team, who’s also been playing the USA pipeline for the past five years, in a little bit of self promotion. Though his restaurant may still be in the works, his career in volleyball is already plenty established.

While most rising athletes are eager to discuss their road to ESPN’s top 10 plays of the day, Maurice seems almost 24 | sports

uncomfortable acknowledging the astounding levels of success he’s claimed in volleyball in only a few short years — five, to be exact. Instead, he prefers to deflect any accolades he’s received onto the people who have shaped him.

In short, Maurice isn’t the typical world-class athlete. Sure, he wants to make it as a professional volleyball player after college. And yes, he’d like to play on the Olympic team. But ultimately, he wants people to know about the support system that gives his accomplishments and dreams all of their worth: his family.

Even though his parents divorced when we was younger, he still has a strong support system from the women in his life.

“I’m a huge family guy,” Maurice said, citing his mom, Shelly, as his “biggest idol.” Though she’s busy with her job as a high school principal in Riverside,

she tries to make it to as many of Maurice’s games as she can. She cheers him on in the bleachers alongside his sisters and nephews. When she can’t physically make it to a game, she always makes sure to follow his sets online or on television, an effort Maurice feels is intrinsic to his success. “It’s fun to have such a big fan base as my family is,” he said.

When he’s playing internationally (as he did in Italy while a member of the USA youth national team that took 10th place in 2009), he keeps in touch and shares victories with his mother through a constant flow of text messages, Skype chats and e-mail threads. The only way they don’t keep in touch? Over the telephone. Though Maurice was born hearing, both his mother and father became deaf in their early childhood, making overseas communication an exercise in creativity.

“

Nowadays, we can just pick up a phone and call whoever we want. But in the deaf community, you can’t do that. It’s kind of a slower process.

For this reason, Maurice appreciates how far technology has come. Video chat has been especially helpful, “because it’s like they get to share that moment with me, where it’s like just fresh off a win, they get to share that excitement,” Maurice said.

“Nowadays, we can just pick up a phone and call whoever we want. But in the deaf community, you can’t do that.

It’s kind of a slower process.”

When his mom and sisters do get a hold of Maurice after catching a livestream of one of his games, however, they don’t go easy on him.

“My mom’s biggest pointer is I need to serve in and play better defense,” Maurice said. “My mom played volleyball … in the deaf Olympics, and all my sisters played volleyball, so they’re very

particular about my game. And they love to pick me up and they’ll break me down just so I can be better.”

In addition to his immediate family, Maurice has another inspiration that has lately followed him onto the court: his 5-year-old nephew, Carter.

Though he’s hesitant to say it outright, it’s easy to imagine that in the eyes of his littlest fan, his 6-foot-7 uncle must look like a power-hitting hero in orange and blue.

“My sister told me he really looks up to me, so it’s a real passionate thing … I kind of want to make him proud. I know he’s only 5, but he’s like my best friend,” Maurice said.

“He’s a funny kid and I love spending time with him, and I want to do good

things to be an idol for him.”

”

An idol, perhaps, that his nephew can look to in the same way Maurice looks to his mother.

“Where she’s come from is awe-inspiring to me,” Maurice said of her. For this reason, whenever interviewers attempt to glorify the noteworthy successes he’s had in volleyball, “I try to give the credit to my mom and my sisters, because they really have made me who I am.”

His successes in the competitive volleyball world are nothing to shortchange, however. Recently, Maurice was a member of the 2010 Men’s Junior National Team, which won the North, Central America and Caribbean Volleyball Confederation (NORCECA) Men’s Junior Continental Championship in Canada. His earlier accomplishments insports | 25

clude winning a gold medal at the Junior Olympics in 2009, as well as bringing home the gold in the 2008 NORCECA Championship.

“Yes, it’s me playing volleyball,” he acknowledges. “But thanks to my sisters and my mom, they have really taught me how to be a better person and how to be a better volleyball player, and I would be nowhere without the women in my family.”

Because of the inseparable link Maurice sees between his passion for volleyball and the strength of his family’s support, he has made an effort to use his rising position in the athletic world in advocacy of the deaf community.

“Deaf people are a lot deeper than people think; they are just hesitant to get to know people because that’s the way they’ve been taught … to put their guard up because they don’t want to get attacked for being different.”

“I’m a big competitor. I want to be the best out on the court, and in volleyball I had the opportunity to do that. It kind of pushed me off and on the court to be a better person, be a better volleyball player, brother, son.”

Because of the many misunderstandings between deaf and hearing communities, taking an active role in the deaf community is something Maurice finds invaluable.

More than his talent, more than his height, more than his knack for grilling, more than the passion pushing him to serve volleyballs on an Olympic court, Maurice is an authentic servant-leader who wants nothing more than to give due credit to those who have surrounded him in unwavering support. Except, maybe, for you to stop by and try his famous Philly cheese steak sandwich. 

“I try to do whatever I can. I try to inspire kids when I go work. I do lessons, I do all sorts of things to help people out wherever I can,” Maurice said.

“It’s kind of cool because [through my success] I get to be an advocate both for volleyball and the deaf world,” Maurice said. “Whenever I can, I share about my family [and] try to get people to know more about the deaf community, that there is one and that these are just normal people.”

“Nothing is wrong with them. They just can’t hear. I think interpreting helps that, and playing volleyball at a high level kind of helps that as well.”

Maurice, who learned to sign before he could speak, is currently listed as an interpreter with two different agencies in California. While his commitment to volleyball limits his availability, he makes an effort to do interpretive work during the summers and on breaks to maintain the link between his two worlds. In particular, Maurice hopes to be able to inspire and develop the athletic talent of deaf children.

“A lot of deaf kids come from a hard place. A lot of them are the only deaf people in their family and [their] parents don’t even speak sign language,” Maurice said. “It’s kind of hard that people don’t take the time to realize or get to know these kids.”

26 | sports

“

Deaf people are a lot deeper than people think; they are just hesitant to get to know people because that’s the way they’ve been taught … to put their guard up because they don’t want to get attacked for being different.

”

A

H OT

workout

The sun isn't the only thing heating up Malibu — hot yoga, a new fitness trend steaming up SoCal, is burning more calories and toning more muscles than ever before.

By Anna Kennedy | Photo by Ashton Bowles

H

ere at Pepperdine, it’s easy to feel as though you’re getting a workout, even if you haven’t been to the gym in weeks. Just walking to class is enough to get that post-workout glow.

That’s what can be so tricky about going to school here: Though we get the (health) benefit of having to hike to classes in the CCB, many students often overlook the fact that extra exercise is, in fact, necessary. True, it is hard to find the time for a jog around the campus or a do a weightlifting session. Luckily, one exercise that more and more people have picked up has so many benefits it actually may be less painful (in the figurative and literal sense) to pursue: hot yoga.

What is hot yoga, you may ask? Hot (or Bikram) yoga is a series of 26 “asanas” (or postures) performed over 90 minutes. A session begins with one warm-up breathing exercise, leading into 24 asanas intended to improve strength and flexibility, and then concluding with one toxineliminating breathing posture.

Sounds simple enough, right? Maybe so, but there’s a catch: class is held in

a 100-degree room. The intense heat, though intimidating, and its numerous benfits are what makes Bikram yoga so popular. First of all, the heat relaxes muscles and joints, thus making it easier (and safer) for even beginners to twist themselves into pretzels. The heat also helps release the lactic acid buildup after muscle use, which decreases the typical postworkout soreness. Also, an obvious result of the intense heat is the sweat, which contributes to quick weight loss, toxin elimination and increased circulation.

This style of yoga was created by Bikram Choudrey. Choudrey himself began practicing yoga at age 4; he went on to win the National India Yoga Contest at only 13. At age 20, however, he suffered a knee injury so serious that European doctors predicted that he would never be able to walk again. Choudrey returned to India to pay a visit to his yoga guru, Bishnu Ghosh, who worked diligently with him for six months until he had fully recovered. After experiencing the incredible healing powers of yoga for himself, he decided to open his own school, first in India, then world-

wide. Choudrey incorporated some elements from Ghosh’s healing regime into what would become his own yoga style.

Though hot yoga has spread across the globe, it is still somewhat low key, especially among young people. Out of all the students who were asked, only a handful had actually heard of hot yoga, and only a few had actually tried it.

“Hot yoga is so intense!” sophomore Nadine Jang said. “You have to drink so much water so you don’t get dehydrated.”

“I love hot yoga,” freshman Savannah Holmes said. “My friend introduced me to it. She brought me to this yoga class, which actually turned out to be hot yoga.

It was so hard.”

Students at Pepperdine are fortunate to live in an area where many local places offer classes, namely Malibu Sun Yoga, which is right down PCH. Practicing hot yoga may be one of the best things that stressed-out Pepperdine students can do for themselves. Hot yoga requires intense focus, which in turn takes one’s mind off of the million and one things on the ubiquitous “to do” list. The only thing more satisfying than the psychological benefits of practicing hot yoga is the physical result: weight management and detoxification.

As finals quickly approach, hot yoga can be a perfect stress reliever to make it through the semester.  sports | 27

Discovering

hidden treasures

New and fresh destinations lurk around every corner on the road less travelled. Finding our way will be tough, but the searching is often more exciting than finding the buried treasure. Take time to enjoy the sights, drinking in every minute before arriving where X- m a r k s the-spot.

off campus >

5

By Niles Jeran

five (secret) spots to visit before you can call yourself a true L.A. native.

Photos by Houston Costa & Stephanie Nelson

{

As Pepperdine students, we are blessed to have an infinite number of opportunities within our grasp. Due to Malibu’s countless ocean and mountain activities, it is not uncommon for the four-year student to overlook many possibilities for exploration in Los Angeles. The city is stereotyped by glamour, fame and

photo by Houston Costa

}

superficiality, but it also has another face that is rarely exposed. Within the walls of the city lie hidden epicenters of culture that are both irreplaceable and authentic, including the Watts Towers, the abandoned zoo in Griffith Park, Olvera Street, an underground poetry lounge and a little-known art gallery.

OLVERA STREET is one of the oldest parts of the greater Los Angeles area and is known for its culturally rich architecture and layout. Olvera Street is an alley that has 27 original Mexican buildings and a Mexican- style plaza just outside. To this day, the street serves as an authentic Mexican market where crafted Mexican souvenirs are sold, authentic Mexican food can be eaten and the true beginnings of Los Angeles can be found.

While walking among the ancient buildings and vendors, it’s easy to get lost in Olvera Street’s historical essence.

One cannot help but marvel at the old, run-down buildings still standing so tall.

They linger over the passer-by, showing their brilliant character.

It’s the small things that give this place its true originality: the old bell tower, the old restaurant and pub with the cracked wood, the broken door with the missing handle, the overhanging Mexican decorations, the flowers, the hats — all of which are evidence of the real past of Los Angeles. Pepperdine students are called to explore, learn and grow. What better way to do that than to explore the origins of one of the most famous cities next door? 

Olvera Street

845 N. Alameda Street Los Angeles, CA 90012 Olvera-street.com

30 | off campus photo by Houston Costa

photo by Houston Costa

Every Tuesday night GreenWay Court Theater 544 N. Fairfax Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90036 9 p.m. to midnight Early arrival is a must

Da Poetry Lounge

Old

By Stephanie Nelson

LA Zoo Griffith Park Drive Los Angeles, CA 90027

By Niles Jeran The site of the OLD LOS ANGELES ZOO was once a thriving area that housed bears, lions, monkeys, exotic birds, elephants and various other animals. Today, however, it remains a forgotten relic. The zoo was founded in 1912 and was used until 1965, though many of the walls, cage structures and enclosures were constructed in the 1930s.

The zoo, once a city attraction and family area, is now simply a part of L.A. history. The cages are now rusted over

with vines and other plants claiming their dwelling. Puddles, dirt, graffiti and trash now coat the old zoo’s once radiating brilliance, but this new look gives the zoo a sense of originality.

To walk through the old neglected corridors, tunnels and cages evokes an eerie feeling that is intoxicating. One can’t help but be consumed by the mystery and enchantment of such an odd place. The Griffith Park zoo remains an example of the fleeting existence of man.

What once was a family outing is now a withering, dilapidated and haunting place that has become a hidden secret of Los Angeles. The Griffith Park zoo is considered one of the most amazing abandonments in the United States, and is open to the public and accessible to exploration throughout the entire area.

One can walk among the cages and structures, freely strolling through the winding hills and keeping an eye out for anything that may lie hidden.  photo by Houston Costa

32 | off campus

photo by Stephanie Nelson

Every morning, we awake to what many consider the wonderful utopia of Malibu. Yet many times it is easy to be caught in a web of blissful ignorance — a failure to maneuver outside of this city and explore what’s around in the greater Los Angeles area. I recently found myself in this place a month ago. A bored exhaustion stirred in me, and I knew I needed a change of pace. It wasn’t until one day that my roommate and I discovered something different, and I was able to see Los Angeles in a new light.

After driving into the deep roots of Los Angeles, we reached our destination and were met by a small crowd lined up outside of a small brick building. Walking inside, I glanced at the people who sat beside me and it was obvious I was not in Malibu. From the streets of Beverly Hills to Compton, everyone had gathered tonight to celebrate the art of spoken word.

A poet climbed on stage. He looked rugged and worn with age. On his face were creases and old scars from years past. He began by highlighting the various problems which accompany racial discrimination, speaking out against social class prejudices that he continually must face on the streets of Skid Row. I

noticed the audience nodding in agreement, identifying with him like he was speaking from their own lives. It was in this moment that I was struck with a pivotal realization. It didn’t matter where these poets came from. Deep down, we all had a story to tell.

Following this man was a poet by the name of “Poetri.” I recognized him from when he spoke at a convocation at Pepperdine two years ago. His first poem was called “Monsters in my Stomach,” which satirically alluded toward his struggles of being overweight and fighting food’s temptations. However, between the laughs, an underlying message was exposed, a message questioning our own monsters, whether they fester in our stomachs or, even worse, our hearts. The spotlight started to feel like it illuminated not just the poet but each of us. A powerful movement of energy waded through the room, and he walked off stage with the audience’s loud approval.

Following Poetri was the highlight of the night. His name was Rudi Francisco.

photo by Stephanie Nelson

The images he painted were a bright collage of feelings and raw emotions, causing the audience to stare numbly down at the ground in silence. Each word that dripped from his lips seemed to hang on our ears like sweet honey. In my opinion, he was the most talented and well-versed speaker that I’ve ever heard.

DA POETRY LOUNGE is truly a diamond in the rough. Since 1998, it has allowed the youth of today’s generation to provoke the mind of the multitude. Here is a place where people from all walks of life can come together and use poetry as a way of free expression and strong convictions. Each speaker saw life through a different lens, unclouded from perfection or judgment, yet beautiful.  off campus | 33

Watts Towers Gagosian

ED RUSCHA “Psycho Spaghetti Western #5”, 2010, acrylic on canvas 48 x 110 inches (121.9 x 279.4 cm) RUSCH 2010.0037 Photos Courtesy of Gagosian Gallery

Lichtenstein, just to name a few. The everchanging dynamic will always keep visitors on their toes.

The well-lit exhibition space was created by architect Richard M. Meier, who also designed the Getty Center in Los Angeles. The white buildings are graced by many windows, which help create the aesthetically pleasing designs and shapes of the buildings.

For absolutely no cost, anyone can view the imaginations of artists poured out on a canvas and experience the captivating emotions of the art. This gallery is also a leading seller of art. With its location in celebrity-congested Beverly Hills, the gallery is a hot spot for highprofile buyers to visit and purchase art.

Some of the celebrities sighted at receptions include Cuba Gooding Jr., James Franco, Nikki Hilton, Josie Maran and Sasha Alexander.

Currently, the art of Ed Ruscha and a

Gallery

By Sarah Attar

Nestled between the nooks and crannies of Beverly Hills lies a little-known art gallery called the Gagosian Gallery. With only 10 locations spanning the globe, the 40 minutes it takes to get to Beverly Hills from school is definitely worth the drive. Featuring modern as well as contemporary works of art, this gallery will surely produce spectacular exhibits of incredible sculptures, video displays, paintings, photography and even jewelry to visitors.

The Gagosian has featured works from a wide range of artists, such as Pablo Picasso, Jackson Pollock, Robert Rauschenberg, Andy Warhol and Roy

456 North Camden Drive Beverly Hills, CA 90210-4507 Tel: (310) 271-9400 Open Tue-Sat 10am-5:30pm

ED RUSCHA “Psycho Spaghetti Western #7”, 2010-2011, acrylic on canvas, 70 x 138 inches (177.8 x 350.5 cm) RUSCH 2011.0001

34 | off campus

joint exhibit by Gus Van Sant and James Franco flood the walls. Ruscha provides a captivating series called Psycho Spaghetti Westerns (pictured), which depicts the effects of time on landscapes that he describes as “waste and retrieval.” These pieces reflect the transformation and effects that nature or culture can have. The striking horizontal landscapes and jutting diagonals bring an entrancing attention to the ordinary objects depicted in a desolate fashion.

Van Sant and Franco fill the other half of the gallery with two films: Endless Idaho and My Own Private River, accompanied by seven large works on paper create an exhibition called “Unfinished.” Franco creates two films using behind-the-scenes footage and material that didn’t make the final cut from Van Sant’s “My Own Private Idaho”. The pieces play on a loop on the wall in a comfortable viewing setting. The large pieces that accompany the video are based on the characters in the 1991 film.

Thoroughly depicted, the young men portrayed convey highly personalized characteristics that provide an overpowering presence.

Keep an eye out for the upcoming exhibits. After the current Ruscha and Van Sant/Franco exhibitions depart on April 9, Mark Tansey will fill the walls with his deeply complex paintings that typify the complexity of our age. The Gagosian Gallery is a Beverly Hills treasure that should not be overlooked. Don’t miss an opportunity to explore the wonders that fill those white walls. 

1761-1765 East 107th Street Los Angeles, CA 90002-3621 Tel: (213) 847-4646 Wattstowers.org

By Niles Jeran WATTS TOWERS: On East 107th Street in the Watts district, 17 towers stand tall, dominating the local area.

The tallest tower measures 30 meters tall, and all were constructed from steel-covered mortar and adorned with broken glass, seashells, pottery and tile. The towers were built by an Italian immigrant named Simon Rodia, who bought the triangle-shaped land in 1921. Rodia worked on the towers for 34 years, only using simple tools, extensive labor and his own genius. Rodia’s determination in his craft is nothing less than inspiring to the surrounding community of Los Angeles, illustrating what it means to create something original and meaningful. It is a trace of artistic beauty in an area so plagued by typical city characteristics — billboards, traffic lights and weathered homes and apartment buildings.

As Rodia grew old, he decided to donate the property to the neighborhood.

Shortly after, the city attempted to demolish the site, deeming it unusable and dilapidated. In response to the threat, a group that called themselves “The Committee for Simon Rodia’s Towers in Watts” fought the city and developed a test that would grade the stability of the structures. The towers were then given to the state and received a heavy amount of restoration, and today are

photo by Houston Costa

used for “cultural enrichment.” In addition, they are home to an annual jazz concert and drum festival.

The towers are a wonder of the area, but are rarely discussed outside a select group of Los Angeles residents. As you meander and climb through the structures, it is impossible to overlook the true brilliance of Rodia’s work. The magnificence lies in his meticulous placement of each adornment and his attention to detail: each sea shell, each piece of glass, each hand-shaped spire. 

As young students, it is critical that we venture beyond the classroom, especially in an area that is so enriched with activities.

As Malibu inhabitants, we should take advantage of our close proximity to Los Angeles, reaping the benefits of such an amazing city while not being consumed by its paralleled insanity. It is in our nature to explore, so explore we must. off campus | 35

The Off-Campus

vibe

Young, independent and ambitious: Three students find more than a home by moving off campus — they find a way of life.

By Giulia Scotti Photos by Ashton Bowles Willy Wonka used to sing: “Come with me and you’ll be in a world of pure imagination ...” So, let your mind wander.

Imagine breaking free of the bubble on top of the hill. Imagine a place where you can wake up and walk to the nearest coffee shop for your morning latte.

Imagine a community bustling with life and — oh dear — nightlife. Open your eyes: Welcome to living off campus.

“If you want to see paradise simply look around and view it …”

Moving outside of the ’Bu can be a big step: The threat of traffic, increasing gas prices and the hidden costs of living off campus can deter even the most enthusiastic Pepperdine neophyte. Yet, being stuck on PCH for half an hour every day and suffering the inconvenience of 14mile long ocean views can bring its own set of rewards.

“I love Malibu, but I appreciate it even more now that I’m only there three times a week,” joked junior Carson Radke, who moved into a studio in Santa Monica at the beginning of the year. “It’s phenomenal because it’s literally right off of PCH, so it’s door-to-door in 20 minutes.”

Carson has spent more time at the office than on campus in the past two years. He interns at the mayor’s office in Los Angeles and shuffles through pieces of national legislation, lists of ambassadors’ names and diplomatic reception 36 | off campus

invitations like they were the Sunday sports section. He knows them inside and out.

As an intern at the Office of Intergovernmental Affairs, he needs to be aware of what’s happening in the city as well as keeping up with international news. “My job is intuitive. I need to anticipate other people’s needs and literally be two steps ahead of them.”

Carson spent the summer of 2010 working at the American Embassy in Buenos Aires and interned at the State Department in Washington, D.C., the previous semester. Business and politics are his daily bread, spiced up with a little dab of international relations.

“I helped organize a meeting with the consuls-general from China, Indonesia and Australia. And I met them all!” he added.

Moving to Santa Monica was like opening the door to a new world, Carson said: morning runs on the boardwalks, breathtaking views and endless places to try out.

He interns two full days a week and works on diplomatic events on occasional nights. The rest of the time is spent on exploring. A typical Saturday means checking out the farmer’s market, enjoying the pool or a good brunch at Shutters on the Beach and walking around Palisades Park for a light workout.

Wilshire Boulevard, Ocean Avenue and Brentwood are Carson’s stomping grounds.

“My favorite restaurant is Portofino, an Italian locanda right off of Montana.

And you should definitely try the Tavern in Brentwood!”

For dessert, he “steps on Azzurra’s

turf”: Venice. A delicious gelato on Abbot Kinney and a quick stop for a drink at The Otheroom are a perfect way to end a weekend.

“If you want to see paradise simply look around and view it …”

Meet Azzurra Alliata Di Montereale: the youngest intern at Honor Fraser Gallery in Culver City. After spending a year in London, she discovered her passion: the ever-changing world of art.

“Los Angeles is a rising art capital: For the first time, it’s competing with New York,” said the art major. “The city has a broken identity. The art scene is not congruent, but people are starting to embrace it. It’s [as if they said], ‘We have no label, accept it.’”

Azzurra’s fascination with all things beautiful started with her frequent trips to Europe and Italy. “I’m such a romantic, but I look at a piece of art and … I understand spending that much money on a piece that truly moves you; it’s what I want to dedicate my life to.”

The Italian native lives with her sister in a condo on Main Street in Venice, which she absolutely loves: “Venice is extremely down-to-earth and casual, but there’s a certain elegance to it, a sophistication,” Azzurra said.

Thanks to her European roots, she is culturally wired to walk around cities and pace herself while enjoying the view.

A regular day unfolds through a bike ride to the farmer’s market on Main Street, lunch at organic hotspot Gjelina on Abbot Kinney and a visit to L&M Arts Gallery in Venice Beach.

Azzurra’s favorite spots are all within walking distance: Lemonade for delicious salads, The Tasting Kitchen for a hip, Mediterranean feel and the more upscale Ado for a candle-lit, intimate atmosphere.

The perks of living in Venice? Walking everywhere.

“You want to meet a friend? You can say, ‘Oh, let’s have coffee, I’ll meet you there in five minutes,’” Azzurra said. So long, PCH. “If you want to see paradise simply look around and view it …”

Finally, meet Rochelle Gordon. At 21, she has taken over six Madison stores

Carson Radke

Azzurra Alliata Di Montereale

Rochelle Gordon

around Los Angeles with her namesake jewelry line, Era. It’s a family business. The name is dedicated to her sisters Erin and Alison, and the antique coins and semi-precious stones that adorn her chain necklaces and pendants are collected by her parents in their trips around the world. Gold and sterling silver are Rochelle’s signature materials, with bracelets and necklaces selling from $50 to $200 per piece.

“I first showcased my collection to the Madison manager at the Palisades,” said the junior public relations major. “She liked it so much that she showed it to the other managers, and now Era is sold in Malibu, Melrose, Los Angeles, Westlake, Brentwood and the Palisades.” She couldn’t hide a smile.

Moving to Santa Monica was the natural next step: the allure of more freedom, a little workspace at the apartment and the possibility to be close to downtown wholesalers and manufacturers was hard to resist.

“Santa Monica is very lively, that’s what I love about it,” Rochelle said. “I haven’t explored enough, but I definitely have my little spots to go there.”

The beach city calls for an active lifestyle. Rochelle is a regular at yoga studios on Second Street and explores Main Street, Montana Avenue and Abbot Kinney Boulevard religiously.

Main Street is the girl’s true Mecca.

Caramel vanilla lattes at Groundwork Coffee Company followed by a special spa treatment at Deluxe Nails are Rochelle’s treats after a long day at work.

Morning pastries and freshly squeezed orange juice are a must at Café Montana and Huckleberry Café on Wilshire Boulevard.

Wilshire Boulevard is also home to Wilshire Restaurant, great for happy hour before a girls’ night out. In Rochelle’s words, “The vibe is gorgeous! It’s the perfect setting for a first date.” Next stop: club Voyeur in West Hollywood.

Whenever she needs a little “me time,” she strolls down the beach to find a quiet spot.

“If you want to see paradise simply look around and view it …” Willy Wonka said it well. Now it’s time to explore.  off campus | 37

Indulge

in the

journey

One destination is another’s beginning. Uncovering this lost treasure is only one chapter in our adventure — there will always be more to discover. Here, we embark on our last quest to explore a few of Los Angeles’ unique restaurants, cafés and bars and enjoy the most precious treasure of all: company.

food >

L.A.’s Hemingway getaway Old typewriters, shelves of dusty novels and velvet couches provide the perfect cozy atmosphere to spend a laid-back Saturday night.

By Hayley Decker | Photos courtesy of Hemingway’s Lounge

“L

ive the full life of the mind, exhilarated by new ideas, intoxicated by the romance of the unusual.” This advice, offered by American author and journalist Ernest Hemingway, may have inspired the concept behind Hollywood Boulevard’s new hot spot, Hemingway’s Lounge.

A time warp in comparison to the

overly trendy nightclubs that line the Walk of Fame, Hemingway’s is characterized by its dimly lit 1930s feel, towering columns filled with hundreds of hardcover books (all collected from estate and yard sales) and burgundy velvet booths. One wall holds more than 50 vintage typewriters, all feeding a sheet of paper with one of the author’s witty lines printed on it.

6356 Hollywood Blvd 1st Floor Hollywood, CA 90028 323.469.0040 hemingwayslounge.com

The tavern opens at 8 p.m. during the week, but don’t plan on eating dinner — the menu consists of purely liquids. Ranging from $15 to $20, cocktails such as “The Old Man and the Sea” and “A Moveable Feast” are named after Hemingway’s greatest works. These and other novel aesthetics (pun unintended) are perhaps what appeals to the Los Angeles hipster crowd that flocks there during the week.

Hemingway’s Lounge offers the boulevard an escape from chaos and a great place to end the day over drinks with friends. The DJ mixes an eclectic blend of ’80s pop, top 40 hits and indie rock; however, the volume is kept at a subtle level to encourage conversation. If you are looking for a casual, yet trendy place to mingle without much dancing, Hemingway’s is the place to be.

Hollywood Boulevard is notorious for the constant opening of hot clubs that just as suddenly cool down or disappear completely, but Hemingway’s has more to offer with its effortless elegance and charm. If the writer himself were still alive, there is no doubt as to where he’d hang out on a Saturday night.  food | 39

Ladyface

Alehouse &Brasserie

discover

Dine &

Villa Blanca Restaurant

Italian & Asian Cuisine

By Derek Jech | Photos courtesy of Villa Blanca

F

requented by celebrities and socialites alike, Villa Blanca is the hippest spot in town.

While the restaurant has been around for a few years now, it wasn’t until recently that I had the opportunity to enjoy a meal here.

Lately, the restaurant has been receiving much press due to the owner’s starring role on the show “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.” Lisa Vanderpump is the brainchild behind this elegant restaurant, and her attention to detail as a designer and business owner made it a truly memorable experience.

Located on the corner of North Camden Drive and Brighton Way in the heart of downtown Beverly Hills, Villa Blanca has quickly become one of my favorite restaurants in the city. I proceeded indoors and was greeted by a friendly host and wait staff. My eyes were entertained by the white hues and pewter accents that were artfully placed throughout the restaurant. The installation of mirrors throughout made the space seem much larger than it was. Giant arrangements of fresh flowers added a luxurious element to the environment.

I was seated and handed a menu with exciting selections that included multiple seafood options, pasta, pizzas, sandwiches, salads and entrees such as 40 | food

marinated chicken skewers, drunken battered fish and chips and Japanese mushroom chicken. I was eating a late lunch today, so I was impressed by the variety of items available on their lunch menu. Having a difficult time deciding, my lunch date and I sought the recommendation of our server. I picked the seafood paella and my date the salmon and vodka penne. Both were priced reasonably, at $24 and $16 respectively.

The seafood paella was a filling dish of risotto topped with calamari, mussels, shrimp and scallops. The risotto, which wasn’t dense, was lightly flavored and paired with the stronger seafood flavors, it provided an interesting balance.

In the salmon and vodka penne, there was the perfect amount of the creamy sauce, which complemented the flavorful fish and pasta nicely. It was topped with freshly grated parmesan that offered a

strong bite to complete the union.

My favorite part of our meal was the dessert. Based on the recommendation of our server, we ordered the English Sticky Toffee Pudding.

When it arrived, it sat on the plate as a less-than-appetizing-looking brick of brown cake. Next to it was a scoop of vanilla ice cream. I was unimpressed. But the blend of warm and cold, solid and liquid, and of rich and sweet was a flawless ending to an extraordinary meal.

After hearing about Villa Blanca for years through my Hollywood social circle, I had high expectations. Fortunately, my expectations were met and exceeded.

I highly recommend this Beverly Hills restaurant for any meal, social gathering or event. With its extensive lunch, dinner, dessert and cocktail menus, this venue provides an exemplary setting for an enjoyable meal. 

Villa Blanca Restaurant & Bar Tel: (310) 859-7600 9601 Brighton Way Beverly Hills, CA 90210 http://www.villablancarestaurant.com/

Alehouse & Brasserie ®

By Owen Lloyd | Photos courtesy of Ladyface Ale Companie

W

hile the name may conjure unpleasant images of a smoky bar with sticky tables and unsavory characters, let’s just say that this Belgian- and French-style microbrewery and restaurant is nothing short of a local culinary getaway.

Since their 2010 opening in Agoura Hills, Ladyface has become something like the Central Perk for my group of friends, as we have visited the establishment at least twice a week since last March. Until then, finding that elusive combination of appealing menu, atmosphere, locality, beverage selection and price was a formidable challenge. Ladyface has these qualities in spades and offers them at an affordable rate that enables frequent patronage.

Ladyface’s burgeoning popularity is partially due to its accommodation of a diverse variety of cuisine and beverage preferences, whether it’s a drop-in visit for inexpensive sweet potato fries or a dinner of succulent local-ingredient burgers. (Try the burger on the pretzel bun with Gruyère cheese.) The menu changes semi-frequently owing to the availability of local produce and a desire to create dynamic and fresh culinary experiences, so be adventurous and order that ratatouille when zucchini and eggplant is in season. Prices vary from the medium to medium-high range, but a basket of their aforementioned “pommes frites” (easily split between two, if not three, friends) can be a staple of any visit.

Seating varies from barstools along

a centrally located long table reminiscent of a medieval feast, to many booths and smaller tables along the walls and in nooks. With spring weather fast approaching, however, my favorite location is the patio with a pleasant view of the namesake Ladyface Mountain. I would suggest arriving late in the afternoon, grabbing a table on the patio and watching the sun set on the mountain, which settles into the evening as the softly lit space evokes a scene from “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.”

While the food and ambience are a healthy component of the total Ladyface experience, the pièce de résistance is the plethora of in-house brewed ales and beers — for all those over 21, of course.

Their central chalkboard ale menu with its cryptic abbreviations and percentages can be daunting for even many beer fiends, but a helpful staff and the fact that you simply cannot go wrong with any choice reduces the potential for disaster. At $5 per pint during normal hours, why limit yourself to only one of these intense and symphonic brews? During the standard happy hour, prices are knocked down to $3 per pint. If I told you that there is a way to get an even lower price, it would spoil the Ladyface mystique that I have built up to this point. I’ll let you discover this secret on your own (Hint: Think prohibition-era culture).

The waiters and staff work hard to keep Ladyface a charming and intimate locale unspoiled by the often-pretentious atmosphere rampant in many Los Ange-

les culinary hot spots. The waiters are human and not robotic, and whether you are just dropping in for a pint or for dinner, they serve you quickly and proficiently.

So tip them well for this, and you will continue to be surprised on return visits with the consistent quality of service. So if that also describes you, Ladyface Alehouse and Brasserie is worth a visit.  Ladyface Alehouse & Brasserie Tel: (818) 477-4566 29281 Agoura Road Agoura Hills, CA 91301 http://www.ladyfaceale.com/

The jug is called a growler and available for purchase for $6. Fill it up with any ale, usually for $12 (specialty ales are a little more).

Enjoy, resuse, enjoy, reuse. food | 41

treasure The aromatic scent of

W

photo by Eunice Kim

ithin the heart of the Los Angeles jungle, lays a vivid, cultural gem. Korea town now has grown into a massive sector within L.A., yielding with it a bounty of hidden treasures to seize. One in particular is the experience of a Korean café. Café Scent, located at the intersection of Serrano Avenue and Wilshire Boulevard, is one flowery treasure Pepperdine and other L.A. students can relish.

On the outside, Café Scent blends within the bustling buildings near the Wiltern Theatre. Located underneath the Aroma golf shooting range, this urban cave is a bit hard to find. This flower shop café has the ambience, décor, and aura perfect for students. The interior is furnished with comfy chairs and large couches that can seat a large study group. Or students flying solo can sit underneath rows of beautiful lights that illuminate a lengthy table with electrical outlets perfect for studying without distractions.

Scent’s softly lit interior is adorned with plants and flowers from their own flower shop inside the café itself that brings a calming environment perfect for study-

42 | food

A cultured coffee shop nestled between worlds offers students a relaxing spot to study or, simply, hang out.

By Eunice Kim

ing, intimate chatter with close friends, or even a romantic date.

While admiring the beautiful décor, customers can sip on delicious lattes, eat divine bingsoo (Korean shaved ice dessert), and enjoy the atmosphere. The café serves intriguing drinks such as sweet pumpkin latte, mango sweet tea, and green tea smoothie alongside an

order of their thin crust pizza or sweet potato cake. Although the drinks are on the sweeter side, there’s nothing like a sugar high to help with the late night studying. Ask for a glass of ice water, and that should help balance the palate.

Café Scent is a treasure worth even more than the drive to L.A. Here,

stressed students can escape the Pepperdine bubble, unwind with a delightful drink, and soak in the mesmerizing ambience without feeling the pressure of having to vacate the area. In this lovely place, customers can hang out and linger for hours, whether they are studying with free Wi-Fi or catching up with friends. On weekdays, this spot stays open till midnight, making it even more ideal for late-night study sessions. On top of that is free three-hour parking with validation Out of the many hidden treasures in Korea town, Café Scent is one worth hunting down and exploring. Sip on large cups of aromatic lattes for $6, savor delectable desserts for about the same photo by Eunice Kim price, and satisfy those late night snack cravings for $8. Students can break from the mundane patterns at school and take a part of the day to soak the relaxing aura from this café that is worth the extra costs. Come enjoy the cozy ambience, break away from Pepperdine’s routines, and delight in the popular Korean café experience. 

CURRENTS MAGAZINE ISSUE 96 | SPRING 2011

pepperdine-graphic.com CURRENTS | 43

“

We do not follow maps to buried treasure and X never, ever marks the spot.

- Indiana Jones

�