21 February 2013 Volume 97 Issue 17
CAMPUS UNITY16
NEWS
5
SNAPSHOTS
12
FOODIE
21
2
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Emily Muthersbaugh HEAD LAYOUT EDITOR Ricky Barbosa
2
INTRODUCTION
HEAD COPY EDITOR Cedric Thiel HEAD PHOTO EDITOR Josh McKinney
Emily Muthersbaugh
CONTENT DIRECTOR Philip Duclos
NEWS EDITOR Jaclyn Archer
Editor-in-Chief
RELIGION EDITORS Rob Folkenberg Nick Ham COLUMNIST Rebecca Brothers CREATIVE WRITING EDITOR Kayla Albrecht OPINION EDITORS Elliott Berger Grant Gustavsen FEATURE EDITORS Braden Anderson Elizabeth Jones James Mayne Christian Robins CULTURE EDITOR Grant Perdew DIVERSIONS EDITOR Eric Weber TRAVEL EDITOR Megan Cleveland HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITOR Karl Wallenkampf
Four weeks ago, Dr. Charles Joseph came to Walla Walla University to speak for our special Martin Luther King Jr. CommUnity. Joseph’s visit to WWU during MLK Jr. Day and just before Black History Month incited discussion among students as to the purpose of and the need for these periods of commemoration. The troubling oppression which led to the civil rights movement has largely subsided, though some may question if its traces remain in the present society. In response to these questions, our staff began to consider what traces of segregation or segmentation may be seen on our campus today.
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY EDITOR Spencer Cutting
In this issue, our Feature explores the question of unity on our WWU campus. Informed by a focus group conducted earlier this month, it examines fragmentation and segregation in our student body, the value of unification, and opportunities to promote this unity on our campus. Celebrating diversity and promoting unity on our campus and in ASWWU honors each different perspective represented in our student body. We can foster the strongest and richest community here when each voice contributes. Because ASWWU encompasses the entire student body, it is a primary facilitator in unifying students from different backgrounds.
This Tuesday, the WWU student body will meet together in the WEC to elect ASWWU executive officers for the next school year. ASWWU is designed with internal checks to monitor how successful the organization is in representing the student body in the form of student senate and this weekly, free-press publication. The students elected to executive offices will have access to over $300,000 in financial resources, as well as over 100 student employees hired by these executive officers for the coming year. With the ASWWU elections approaching, it is important for students to consider how ASWWU will use these resources to enhance the quality of student life, represent their student body to the university, and promote unity among the students.
FOOD EDITOR Amy Alderman SPORTS EDITORS Trevor Boyson Tye Forshee THE HEEL EDITOR Julian Weller STAFF WRITERS Amy Alderman Casey Bartlett Hilary Nieland Annie Palumbo Daniel Peverini LAYOUT DESIGNERS Allison Berger Alix Harris Greg Khng Cory Sutton COPY EDITORS Amy Alderman Rebecca Brothers Carly Leggitt Ryan Robinson DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Alex Wickward OFFICE MANAGER Heather Eva SPONSOR Don Hepker EDITORIAL BOARD Braden Anderson Jaclyn Archer Elliott Berger Philip Duclos Rob Folkenberg Grant Gustavsen Elizabeth Jones James Mayne Emily Muthersbaugh Christian Robins Julian Weller AD SALES MANAGER Brenda Negoescu aswwu.ads@wallawalla.edu
Photo by Arella Aung
Context
3–7
News ASWWU/Admin Week in Review Week in Forecast
Photo by Darin Berning
Perspective Religion Column Creative Writing SM/ACA Opinion Snapshots
8–13
Photo by Josh McKinney
Feature 14–17
Campus Unity: The Whole Body Approach
Photo by Amy Alderman
Life 18–24
Culture Diversions Sports Foodie Science Human Sexuality
If you are interested in contributing to The Collegian, contact our page editors or the editor-in-chief at aswwu.collegian@wallawalla.edu. The Collegian is boosted by regularly incorporating a wide range of student perspectives. Cover Photo Credit: Josh McKinney, Ricky Barbosa, Aurella Aung, Kate Gref, Amy Alderman The Collegian is the official publication of ASWWU. Its views and opinions are not necessarily the official stance of Walla Walla University or its administration, faculty, staff, or students. Questions, letters, and comments can be mailed to aswwu.collegian@wallawalla.edu or emily.muthersbaugh@wallawalla.edu. This issue was completed at 1:42 a.m. on 21 February 2013.
The Collegian | Volume 97, Issue 17 | 204 S. College Avenue | College Place, WA 99324 | collegian.wallawalla.edu
NEWS
Wa-Hi Bond Fails A bond to make much-needed improvements to Walla Walla High School has failed after months of debate in the community. The Walla Walla County Auditor’s Office reported 5,056 votes in support of the bond and 4,430 against. The 53.3-percent approval fell short of the 60 percent supermajority needed for the bond to pass.
with architects to draw up a proposal that met the school’s need. The $48 million bond, if passed, would have modernized a school which has not seen many improvements since its completion in the 1960s. According to the Walla Walla Union-Bulletin, “The school’s academic and science buildings in particular would have benefited from the proposal with more spacious and energy-efficient classrooms. Newer science labs and classrooms, and better technology overall, would have helped make students more competitive.”
The bond has been several years in the making, as the Walla Walla School Board studied the needs at Wa-Hi and worked
The bond would have cost property tax payers an additional 68 cents per $1,000 of assessed value, bringing their total tax on all
Annie Palumbo
Staff Writer
BY THE Walla Walla School District bonds to $1.95 per $1,000. Opponents primarily focused on the current state of the economy, the large price tag of the project, and the burden of more property taxes. In a press release, Walla Walla School District Superintendent Mick Miller thanked the staff, parents, students, and community volunteers for helping inform the community about the proposal. No decisions have been made regarding future bond proposals.
Fourteen Students to Attend Theater Festival Casey Bartlett Staff Writer
All who were privileged enough to catch a showing of wwudrama’s presentation of The Importance of Being Earnest last quarter know that our drama program is superb. The talent found in every facet of theater featured at WWU, from acting and directing to set and prop design and sound production, is being recognized by critics from the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival. Fourteen WWU students have been invited to attend the regional festival in Sacramento, Calif., this week for their work in the productions The 39 Steps (fall 2011), Romeo and Juliet (spring 2012), A Falafel Musical (spring 2012), and The Importance of Being Earnest (fall 2012). The KCACTF was formed in 1969 and serves “as a catalyst in improving the quality of college theater in the United States.”1 It is an annual event involving more than
18,000 students nationally from seven different regions across the country. The festival features an abundance of workshops for the invitees to attend to gain more knowledge of their trade while interacting with fellow theater students from other universities. Nicole Im (The Importance of Being Earnest) is excited to “learn new techniques and [to] play with new actors.” Im says that she will be engaging in such activities as “clownology, belt singing, and interpretive dancing” as she enthusiastically notes that, “There is so much to try!” Jordan Stephan, a new face to the WWU stage in The Importance of Being Earnest, says he is “unsure how much of a fit drama could be for [him] here at WWU” and feels the festival will give him the answers for which he is looking. When asked what excites him about the festival, Stephan commented, “I’m mostly looking forward to meeting new people.” Joshua Haddock (The Importance of Being Earnest) summarized the event with the words: “There’s just going to be so much creative juju going around.”
CONTEXT
Several of the WWU invitees will be auditioning at the festival for a chance to attend the national festival in Washington, D.C. According to David Crawford, director of drama at WWU, the national festival provides participants with valuable opportunities, including the opportunity to receive full-ride theatre scholarships to nearly any school of their choosing. When asked to comment on what it means for a school of our size to have so many students invited to the regional festival, Crawford said, “I am constantly surprised by both the talent we get coming into the WWU drama program and the materials they produce.” Crawford notes that WWU produces a lot of talent from a small pool and hopes these nominations will help the whole university recognize what the drama department is doing and what it is capable of doing. He hopes “every student on campus [can] say, ‘we have an awesome drama program. You should see one of their shows.’” 1. kcactf.org/kcactf.org_national/kcactf.html.
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NUMBERS
$3
BILLION
Reward of the Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences, a prize for excellence in research for curing intractable diseases.
4,300 Years of meteor strikes recorded in an interactive online map.
1,361
Ballots recorded in ASWWU’s primary elections.
$750,000 Amount of campaign money Jesse Jackson Jr. plead guilty to using for personal spending.
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CONTEXT
ASWWU/ADMIN
SENATE UPDATE
Old Business F.L. 22 — Memorial Fund Purpose: provides $5,000 in aid to a needy family. F.L. 23— Girls’ Dorm Parking Lot Lights Purpose: install lighting in the girls dorm overflow parking lot. Key:
President McVay’s New Aides Darold Bigger: Assistant to the President
Alex Bryan: Advisor for Vision and Strategy
Dr. Darold Bigger coordinates the work done in the president’s office in order to allow President McVay to focus on long-term planning, funding, and improvements for the university. Bigger’s tasks include fact finding; building and reviewing McVay’s appointment calendar and travel schedule; and coordinating the planning of major events like board meetings, graduation, and meetings of faculty and staff. In addition to serving as assistant to the president, Bigger is also a professor of religion and social work.
Dr. Alex Bryan, who is also senior pastor of the University Church, works with President McVay to develop long-term strategies for the Th university. Issues that Bryan works on withpressu McVay include controlling the cost of tuition,who preparing WWU graduates to thrive in the dif-backg ficult job market, and offering a first-rate educa-called tion while providing a rich spiritual community.to co Seattl Current projects for Bryan and McVay include a “10-year (2013–the N 2023) vision and strategy” plan and creating a “dynamic, entrepre-deter neurial environment on campus.” measu
Current projects involve compiling a manual for members of the board of trustees as well as working with senior class officers and sponsors to coordinate graduation.
Ho also k which of pr way crimi
F.L. | Financial Legislation G.L. | Governance Legislation P.L. | Personnel Legislation
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OPEN ASWWU POSITIONS ASWWU TV Manager ASWWU Webmaster Collegian Opinion Editor Collegian News Editor Collegian Religion Editor
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NS
NEWS
CONTEXT
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Gun Control in Washington Annie Palumbo
Staff Writer
The National Rifle Association is increasing pressure on Washington state lawmakers who have endorsed a plan to expand gun background checks. Recently, the NRA called for “urgent” action from its members to contact Representative Mike Hope, a Seattle police officer, urging him to support the NRA. The group said Hope’s vote could determine the fate of a “sweeping gun control measure.” Hope currently supports House Bill 1588, also known as the “background check bill,” which would require background checks of private gun sales, saying it is a reasonable way to help keep guns away from violent criminals and the mentally ill. The bill
would also expand checks to sales between private parties. Hope says of the NRA, “What frustrates me is that they’re not really looking at that stuff, they’re just looking at a unilateral ‘no’ to everything, and they’re not looking for a solution.” Criminals purchase guns privately to avoid having to prove they are legally allowed to own one, and expanding the background checks to include private sales would help ameliorate this problem. Hope believes there are a lot of misconceptions about what the bill will do. The NRA told its members that the bill would have no impact on criminals and would be “the first steps toward universal registration of firearms and owners.” It called the background-checks plan “a massive regulatory scheme with huge burdens and obstacles.” According to Hope, this is inaccurate. Records of the background checks would not be maintained or part of a registration system.
ASWWU Elections Hilary Nieland Staff Writer
Just around the corner are the annual ASWWU elections. On Feb. 26, CommUnity will be held in the Winter Educational Complex. During this time, candidates for ASWWU president, as well as the candidates for the social, spiritual, and executive vice presidential positions, will present their campaign speeches. Students will then vote on a ballot for whom they want in leadership positions during the 2013–14 academic year. Presidential candidates are Natalie Slusarenko and Jono Pratt. The job of the president is to oversee everything within ASWWU. The president works with the vice presidents to make sure they
fulfill their goals and works as a student representative to the administration. Candidates for spiritual vice president are Adan Rodarte and Karl Wallenkampf. The spiritual vice president works to be a spiritual leader on campus and plans events such as student Week of Worship, Battleground weekends, and aftervespers programs. The candidate for social vice president is Nancy Patiño. The social vice president organizes all social activities on campus, such as the Barn Party and dead week events. The executive vice president works with the governance of ASWWU and is the chair of student senate and sits on faculty senate. Candidates for this position are Philip Duclos and Alec Thompson.
Instead, two people wanting to complete a transaction could go to their local gun shop or local law enforcement agency and pay for a background check of $20 or less. Washington state has recently started a gun buyback program to take guns off the streets and out the hands of criminals. In Seattle on Jan. 26, a buyback event was held where people could trade in their guns for gift cards worth up to $200. The police announced that no names would be recorded, thus inviting anyone to turn over their gun with no questions asked. At the end of the day, officers recovered a total of 716 weapons, including a missile launcher, in exchange for $68,000 worth of gift cards. Many believe this is the first step to taking guns out of the hands of criminals. A study published by The National Research Council in 2004 about gun buyback programs disagrees; instead suggesting that
the guns surrendered are those “least likely to be used in criminal activities.” Some argue that these small steps are not enough. The Huffington Post recently published a study reporting that for every 100 people in the United States, there are 88.8 firearms.1 If that statistic holds for Seattle’s population of 620,000, then approximately 550,000 firearms are owned privately in the city. Hope believes that the background checks will serve as a way to monitor the flow of these weapons, ultimately cutting down the violent crime rate in Washington. 1. big.assets.huffingtonpost.com/transparency. jpeg.
The Festival of One Acts Daniel Peverini Staff Writer
Next Saturday night, the annual Festival of One Acts opens during for the 2012–13 season. The festival will be held in Village Hall on March 2, 3, 7, 9, and 10 at 8 p.m. Reservations can be made in advance at drama.wallawalla. edu. For this particular festival, wwudrama is working with the film/TV program of the department of communication and languages to present four live one acts and one short film. Each night, all five shows will play. At the end of each night, the audience will vote for their favorite show. At the conclusion of the last night, the director whose show received the most votes will be awarded “audience favorite.”
The night will begin with “The Spot,” written by Steven Dietz and directed by Joshua Haddock. Playing second will be “Trifles,” written by Susan Glaspell and directed by Estée Pummel. New this year, and third in the lineup, will be the short film “Hat Trick,” written by Alisha Lang. Fourth will be “A Time of Green,” written by Anna Stillaman and directed by Randall Lutz. Finally, shows will close with “The Romancers” written by Edmond Rostand and directed by Sabrina Tym. “I am looking forward to the great stories each director will tell,” says David Crawford, director of wwudrama. For further information, contact David Crawford at (509) 527-2641 or wwudrama@wallawalla.edu.
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CONTEXT
WEEK IN
REVIEW Photo by Arella Aung
Gospel CommUnity 10 February The office of diversity led out in a special CommUnity celebrating black culture.
Photo by Arella Aung
Photo by Arella Aung
ASWWU Town Hall Meeting
Vespers: Campus Ministries
14 February
15 February
Students gathered in The Atlas and had the opportunity to pose questions to candidates for ASWWU president and vice president positions.
Photo by Paddy McCoy
Portland Mission Trip 15–18 February Campus Chaplain Paddy McCoy led a group of 20 students to Portland over the long weekend for the sixth annual Portland Mission Trip.
Tim Oliver led out in worship and Pastor Kris Loewen gave a spoken work about calling, purpose, and mission.
Photo by Flickr user photologue_np
Career and Internship Fair 20 February Students headed to the WEC with résumés in hand to introduce themselves to potential employers and to find opportunities for the future.
CONTEXT
7
WEEK IN
FORECAST Photo by Flickr user Pockafwye
Thursday |
21 FEB 55° 37°
33rd Annual ASME Egg Drop 11:30 am Kretschmar Lawn
ASWWU Town Hall Meeting 7 p.m. The Atlas
Chasing Winter Movie Premier 8 p.m. FAC
Photo by Flickr user The Rocketeer
Photo by Darin Berning
Friday |
22 FEB
Vespers: ASWWU Battleground
Monday |
National Tortilla Chip Day
Fast Film Fest Screening
55° 37°
7 p.m. Black Box Theater
25 FEB 54° 30°
Saturday |
23 FEB 52° 34°
Battleground 10:30 a.m. Village Hall
Sheldon Parris 8 p.m. University Church
Piano Vespers
5 p.m. University Church
BSCF: Impact 9 p.m. SAC
Photo by Flickr user fensterbme
Sunday | 24 FEB
59° 36°
Photo by Alex Barcelo
Tuesday |
26 FEB 55° 37°
CommUnity: ASWWU Elections 11 a.m. WEC
Guest Piano Recital: Duo Junction 7:30 p.m. FAC
Photo by Flickr user beingmyself
Wednesday |
27 FEB 57° 41°
International Polar Bear Day
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PERSPECTIVE
Question Why do Adventists go door to door sharing literature?
Response Through providential workings, I ended up in a program called Youth Rush. It was in my head that solicitors were an annoyance, and I showed up to the program angry with myself for agreeing to be one of those “annoying” people. However, my heart softened as I realized that some people behind those doors had prayed for someone like me to come. My heart softened as I realized some people had no way of going to a church, had no way of knowing about Jesus, unless I came to their door. My heart softened as some people cried and told me that they were tired of hypocrites, but I was able to remind them of a Savior that loves all hypocrites and even the church. My heart softened as I met a new-age lady that told me, “You came at just the right moment. I am seeking truth.” I came back at the end of every evening full of joy. Literature evangelism is the work that has changed my life. Prior to it, I had never experienced a miracle before, had never known what a divine appointment was like, and had never felt the joy that I received as a result of knocking on strangers’ doors. It is the reason that I am still in the church. The ministry of door knocking reminds me of Jesus. He came to seek and to save that which is lost. They might not always come to you. You might have to go to them. Every positive experience has brought me so much joy, and I am certain that it is how Christ and heaven itself feels over one sinner who repents. — Jordana Ashburn, WWU alumna and former Upper Columbia Conference literature ministries director
Have a good question? Email robert.folkenberg@wallawalla.edu.
REAL QUESTIONS
RELIGION
Thoughts at the Beach Rob Folkenberg Religion Editor
I stood on the rocky beach, listening to the waves gently toss up onto the shore. It was dark, but the full moon lit up enough of the sound to make the experience incredible. As I squatted near the tideline, I tried to find peace, tried to let loose all the tension I felt inside. But I was distracted. There was something that bothered me. There was something external keeping me from totally relaxing: the planes. There’s a naval air station nearby, and I still wonder why they have so many planes flying above the sound. We’re not at war, but those planes were flying by that night. I heard them coming from a good distance off, the noise bellowing louder and louder like thunder as they flew near and then past me. As one disruption died off, another plane almost always seemed to be right on its heels, the noise barely dying off on one horizon before a similar one began to grow from the other.
“I want to keep on going, steady, unchanging, always trusting Jesus.” I found it hard to meditate, to think, to soak in the beauty and what God was putting in my mind. I was always looking up at the sky to see the lights of the next plane coming, anticipating the possibility of a little window of peace. And peace did come occasionally. As the plane flew off, the sound would quickly, suddenly die
off, and there would be only the sound of the gentle, steady waves. It was such a wonderful feeling, the contrast.
“He pulls us out and uses us for an important purpose: to reflect His light.” Regardless of the sound I heard, waves were always washing up on that beach. It didn’t matter that all I could take in was the planes. The waves were steady, always there. I want to be like the waves. This world can go off into chaos, with scandal, sin, terrorism, and crises thundering all around me and above me, but in spite of the roar, I want to keep on going, steady, unchanging, always trusting Jesus, always keeping my eyes on Him. No matter the circumstances, I want to go on. Above the waves, the moon was beautiful and full. Some clouds were in the sky,
but they didn’t cover the moon — they were accentuating it. I’ve heard that we should “Be the moon — reflect the Son.” All I could see at the time was the moon. It was beautiful on its own, showing me what the sun was like. Sometimes, the Son just can’t be seen either. People are blinded by preconceived ideas or pain. It gets dark, and I want to be a Christian that is a consistent reflection in the night. We can see the Son, and we reflect the Son. And Jesus uses us to reveal His brightness. Not that Jesus couldn’t show Himself to people, and be very convincing, but He’s using us instead. It’s for our good, and it works well for the one receiving the light as well. The moon is beautiful, even inspirational. As I sit in my cabin after this beach experience, I thank God for the help and patience that He gives us. He encourages us to be consistent, steady followers. He waits, He calls for us, as we wallow in the noise, distracted and trapped in this world. And still He pulls us out and uses us for an important purpose: to reflect His light. I’m glad He chose me. I’m so thankful He’s patient with me, guiding and training me to live for Him. It’s hard to be like the ocean or like the moon. They’re both huge, but God made them both. If He made the ocean and the moon, He also wants remake and use someone like me. Knowing that gives me peace.
Design by Greg Khng
COLUMN & CREATIVE WRITING
The Ancient Sorority of Lodge Lurkers Rebecca Brothers Columnist On Sunday, I found myself settled at a table at the main ski lodge at White Pass surrounded by a group of people who I believe are officially known as “ski widows” — the people, mostly women, who have accompanied their friends and families to the mountain for moral support, and then waved them off and settled in for a day of knitting, reading, and defending their groups’ stockpiles of Triscuits. Ski widows, also called lodge lurkers, take to the lodge for at least one of four reasons: (1) They are injured; (2) they do not like skiing; (3) they do not know how to ski; and/or (4) they still mentally convert any expense to hours spent working at minimum wage. Citing reasons three and four, I happily joined their numbers, taking a seat at a long table with a woman in a gray sweater. For two hours, stillness reigned supreme, broken only by the tap of coffee cups on the tabletops, the swish of pages being turned, and muffled screams from the slopes outside. Then came lunchtime, and I had a new definition of chaos. I had never before realized how popular skiing is with children under the age of 10; I suppose I had thought that skiers popped up from the ground, fully formed, at age 18. One minute I was sipping Numi Berry Black and contemplating life, the universe, and everything else; the next minute, I was surrounded by grade schoolers, who were tangentially related to the woman in the gray sweater. We knew each other quite well by the end of lunch, and I mean that in the least creepy way possible. There was Angie, the gray-sweater woman; Bradley, approximately age six, who had begged to come down to the lodge for lunch and then declared that he wasn’t hungry; Leslie, a redhead who successfully lobbied for her own basket of fries; and Maddie,
roughly age eight, who sat immediately to my left and was soon engrossed in the book I was reading. (Don’t worry — it wasn’t anything controversial, just a scathing indictment of the Catholic Church’s treatment of women.) The group had bags of animal crackers and Cheez-Its floating around the table so freely that I sensed that it would not be improper to reach out and take a handful, although I did not test this theory. At one point, Angie asked the group at large if anyone wanted pizza, and I was seized with a mad desire to chip in with my order and see what happened.
“It wasn’t anything controversial, just a scathing indictment of the Catholic Church’s treatment of women.” I didn’t, naturally, but my point is that it was an endearingly open group, even if they did leave crumbs on the table and throw away an entire slice of untouched pizza. They almost succeeded in making me jealous that I wasn’t putting on my hat and gloves too and joining the stream of skiers queuing for the lifts and wending their way down the hill like brightly colored ants. Almost, I said — in the meantime, I’m still a devoted member of the Ancient Sorority of Lodge Lurkers. Give us another 10 years and we’ll have a website and matching jackets.
PERSPECTIVE
On Writing Joshua Haddock Contributing Writer
There’s an ache that exists in the heart of a writer that not everyone can understand. To write, to be read, and to be understood is a longing so terrifying and exhilarating that there isn’t anything I know that can compare with it. The ache is so powerful it could almost be described as a need — much like eating or sleeping. You will never be done with it; you will simply satisfy it for a time. For to stop, just as any other need, would somehow result in your death. Only through the medium of written language do the secret avenues of a writer’s heart seem to unfold. And when they do, there is an outpouring of power flowing to the minds of any who wish to read it. The writer is powerful, dangerous, and raw. A professor of mine said, “The great writer holds incredible power, and if held by the wrong person, it can be a terrible thing.” The thoughts of writers may extend far beyond the grave. Their insights can last forever. The minds of generations can be molded by the scribbling of ink written from the hand of a frail human from generations earlier. But it is not the power that attracts. It is the ache. There is a fire that licks at the bones of the writer, igniting their fingers into pounding pistons against the keys until those thoughts which had once consumed them may rest in peace upon the page. It is the ache of the human condition made tangible. The mind coming in contact with reality. Shapes personifying immortal feelings. A love poem will continue to be so long after the writer has stopped being in love. This ache, this longing, is deep at root within my own heart. The written word taking form upon the stage is a desire of mine which can be described as nothing less than the deepest passion of my soul. It is the fire in my bones, an avenue through which I meet the divine and the divine speaks to me.
Calling all creative writers: The opportunity to publish your work has come! The Creative Writing section will be collecting any and all creative writing submissions starting NOW and ending March 1 in The Collegian’s first ever Creative Writing Competition. The first-prize winner will receive the honor of having his or her talent displayed in the March 7 publication, along with a $15 gift card. Ready? Set? Write! Send submissions to aswwu.collegian@wallawalla.edu.
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PERSPECTIVE
SCHOLARS ABROAD
Snapshots of an International Holiday Break Lauren Lewis Argentina
It felt as long as a marathon as we screamed and sprinted towards the bus station. The five of us wanted to leave the small college town as much as Katie wanted to leave Tom Cruise. As we sat in the bus headed towards Buenos Aires, it finally sunk in: freedom! In less than a month, my four amigos and I traveled all around Argentina, from north Buenos Aires to nearly the tip of Cape Horn and back to Entre Ríos, where the university sits. From a flight in Buenos Aires, we started our journey to El Calafate. El Calafate is a southern backpacker town full of hippies; chocolate; and a massive, 19-mile-long glacier. The glacier’s constant movement creates continuous icefall from its jagged wall. The cracking of ice and its crashing into the water below can be heard for miles. My friends and I hiked around parts of the glacier and a mountain range named Fitz Roy. In El Chaltén, we stumbled into La Wafflería. Having had tuna and crackers for lunch (a low-budget meal) and beans and rice for the past three months (a university favorite), a Wafflería meal was unreal. Just to tantalize your taste buds, imagine a fluffy Belgian waffle hidden in milk chocolate, covered with dark chocolate ice cream, drizzled
with dulce de leche (similar to caramel), and with a hot chocolate on the side. Please shut your mouths and wipe the drool from your Collegian. Can you say diabetes? From El Calafate we left for a more northern city called Bariloche. After a 30-hour bus ride, we arrived in the mountainous town known for its chocolate. We expected a peaceful and clean atmosphere in the new hostel, similar to our experience in El Calafate. As we entered the hostel, an old, drunken man exhibiting underwear and yelling at a drunk and angry Israeli group met us. Finding no locking doors and no private showers, we left, not wanting to join the party or have everything stolen from us or puked on. We later learned, after discovering a different Israeli-filled hotel with locking doors, that Israelis often travel through Argentina, and specifically Bariloche, when they are released from their tour of duty. Now knowing that hundreds of Krav Maga– mastered Israelis were visiting Bariloche and sleeping in the same building, we locked our doors at night. Neither did we accept the routine 2 a.m. invitation to smoke weed. In Bariloche, we rented a Volkswagen Gol, which drove as well as a tin can with wheels. In the United States, you must be 25 years of age to rent a car. In Argentina, if you have money, you can do whatever. Now my friends and I have the bragging rights to have rented a car at age 19. We saw mountains, valleys,
Los Niños Locos Justin Mock Spain
Now that we students studying here in Sagunto, Spain, have recently made it past the halfway mark of our second quarter abroad, our improved skills in the language of Spanish are opening up opportunities to share life more closely with the members of our host country. For me, this new quarter brought me an opportunity to work with kids and join a team of American students who teach an English workshop every afternoon in the elementary school. Having a couple years of summer camp counseling experience, I figured that I was ready to handle the niños here in Spain. However, since starting, the other teachers
and I have witnessed much craziness. We have confiscated obscene art, broken up fights, chased runaway students, and sent many children to time out. I even had one little first grader dance Gangnam style behind my back, which made even us teachers laugh. The truth is, instructing these kids is challenging when our English is difficult for them to understand and our Spanish contains our funny American accents. I can remember a recent day that was particularly tough. I don’t know what type of evil energy was in the air, but our team of teachers was not prepared for what was to come. The energetic kids came crashing in like a tidal wave, and gaining their attention was impossible due to the storm of noise. With great effort, we captured enough attention
Photo by Lauren Lewis
rivers, lakes, animals, and chocolate shops. Embracing high blood sugar, we found the best of dark chocolate, milk chocolate, hot chocolate, and chocolate gelato. Beyond chocolate, we discovered other food on our student budgets: In an alley by our hotel, we found a $1.50 burger vender using a trash can as a barbecue. By the end of our trip, we were on a first-name basis with the “chef.” From Bariloche, we journeyed back to the university to regain a diet of rice and beans. This was my first experience with a spontaneous and independent itinerary. No parents or guided tours had influence. It was glorious! I felt it was a large triumph to travel across a foreign country, stay in shady hostels,
to explain the topic and pass out the activity, and although this decreased the madness, the storm soon returned in full force. Some were rolling and wrestling, others were using the front of the room as a Slip ’n Slide, some were tossing things, and, of course, there were the six good students sitting quietly. In this chaotic moment, one of the third-grade teachers came through the door at the back of the room and stood observing. She wasted little time in bringing order by using her commanding presence to silence the children, line them up, and give them a talk about obedience. When the time came to go, she marched them out of the classroom with gloomy looks on their little faces. After cleaning, we teachers left, feeling defeated. On our way across the schoolyard,
eat in the back alleys, and not pull a Taken. This trip taught me the importance of having enough ambition to travel as a young adult. As you might struggle to leave the dorm in the cold and gloomy winter of Washington, remember that each day can hold an adventure and a new, vibrant experience. Even in Walla Walla, surely you can find a local making a concoction in a back alley near Thai Ploy — or maybe find something more extraordinary. So get off your butts, travel even if it is only a few blocks, and “Color [your] life with the chaos of trouble.”1 Until the next adventure, adiós, chicos. 1. Belle and Sebastian, “The Boy With the Arab Strap.”
someone handed us a stack of papers. They were apology notes from those third graders. Each contained ten lines of “Me portaré bien en el taller de inglés,” or in English, “I will behave well in the English workshop.” Under that was a small apology next to their signature. Whether sincere or not, the notes were touching. Since then, things haven’t changed drastically, but each class period, I am reminded that behind every devilish grin there is a child seeking attention from someone who cares. Although every class feels like a battle, our relationships with the kids are growing. Now, when I encounter one of the students outside of class, they always smile and wave, reminding me that even the difficult people in life can be a blessing.
OPINION
PERSPECTIVE
The Agreeable Affirmative Action Opinion Editor
Any help should go to those who deserve it. Implanting rules into the workforce that deal with affirmative action is extremely difficult to regulate; you never know what or whom you are displacing to accommodate someone else. In education, success is more self-reliant. Instead of relying on the
“You never know what or whom you are displacing to accommodate someone else.” one is sought while the other is purchased. Things become touchy when you deal with someone’s income and his or her immediately affected life. Incentive from a scholarship is presented so that the individuals would work
If affirmative action does exist, it should not be from reasons of payment for past racial actions. The only type of racism that should be dealt with is that of overt origin. Education should be referred to for increasing benefits of foreigners and races that are disadvantaged. Let’s remember what has happened, but allow the affirmation to be given somewhere besides the workforce.
Diversity, Fairness, and Preferential Treatment Opinion Editor
In the 1960s, civil rights gave the black population newfound equality and fairness in society, specifically in the workplace and in educational institutions. However, simple legal equality wasn’t enough to cure centuries of discrimination and segregation, so additional measures were necessary to fully implement such equality. Thus affirmative action was introduced, a necessary measure that gave racial minorities a head start in the race to equality. Included in the measure were laws that required universities to accept a certain number of black students and required employers to have a certain percentage of minority workers. The laws were necessary and beneficial at the time they were introduced. However, 50
A study at Princeton University showed, in terms of SAT points, admissions advantages and disadvantages of minorities as compared with white applicants:1 Blacks: +230 Hispanics: +185 Asians: -50 Recruited athletes: +200 Legacies (children of alumni): +160
Racial affirmative action tends to benefit affluent and upper-class blacks and Hispanics at the expense of lower-class whites and Asians, as upper-class minorities have access to similar resources as upper-class racial majorities, while still classifying as a minority. If we want to be a nation that is truly equal, we should not allow considerations for race, income, and age to be brought into the equation in any way. In fact, the 14th Amendment already prohibits such actions. A job should be filled, or a student accepted, based on that person’s qualifications and achievements, which are independent of the color of his or her skin. 1. princeton.edu/~tje/files/Admission%20Preferences%20Espenshade%20Chung%20Walling%20Dec%202004.pdf.
Burger King’s Twitter account hacked. Fast food gets fried.
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Associated Press reports that the next Pope could be the cardinal from Boston. Red Sox still better than Cardinals.
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Grant Gustavsen
years later, those same laws are still in place. Racial affirmative action is a dated concept. It is no longer a measure that fights racism but is now one that carries on the idea that minorities are unable to compete with whites on a level playing field. It says the minorities require special treatment in order to be able to succeed in society. This dangerous concept in no way promotes equality; it suggests that all are not equal on their own, but that the government is necessary to level the playing field.
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It’s very disagreeable when you watch an experienced, trusted employee be replaced with someone new simply because the company didn’t have enough diversity. When laws start to affect how individuals treat one another, the conclusion will most likely be unbalanced. There is, however, a safer way to encourage diversity in the workforce and in education, and that is to increase scholarships and funding for less-represented races.
Things need to be kept interracial. Foreign students, foreign workers, and diversity should be widely accepted in every nation. Foreigners should be rewarded for their cultural transitions. You can imagine how living in another country would cause any help with the adjustment to be much appreciated. In regard to foreign races that have lived here for an extended period of time, the problems of racism may still affect these groups, whether or not we see it often.
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Carnival cruise stranded in the Caribbean. Worst carnival ever … crew didn’t clown around.
Meteor strikes Russia. Russia first in space, space first in Russia.
Over half of Americans sent their Valentine’s Day cards online this year. Nothing says “I love you” like an attachment.
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COLLEGIAN WISDOM
interracially to achieve their rewards.
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Elliott Berger
source of your coworkers, student success is more personalized and dependent on the motivation that individual possesses. A worker has a job while a student has a class;
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Woman aged 104 forced to lie about age to sign up for Facebook. Age limit designed to protect great-grandchildren.
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SNAPSHOTS
#thecollegian
@gregkhng
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Submit your pictures to us via Instagram by tagging #thecollegian. Photo by Darin Berning
SNAPSHOTS
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#40dayswwu
Photo by Ivan Cruz
Photo by Ivan Cruz
@heatherie_note
Show us what Abiding Service means to you and see how others are interacting with our community. Submit your pictures to us via Instagram by tagging #40dayswwu. Photo by Arella Aung
Photo by Arella Aung
Photo by Arella Aung
Photo by Arella Aung
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40 DAYS OF SERVICE $60,000
Pay the Visit Nick Ham
Religion Editor
Tom is 68, and a few years back the whole right side of his skull and a portion of his brain was removed. Nearly every day, anyone walking through the main doors of Eagle Meadows on Whitman Drive here in College Place would meet Tom, relaxed and sitting in a chair in the lobby. Recently, I was that lucky visitor. Spending time in a care home is cliché. Many of the students here at Walla Walla University probably have a “been there, done that” attitude about visiting the residents in a care facility. Today, while walking around the outside of the home and listening to Tom relate his story of growing up in Milton-Freewater as he pushed his tennisball supported walker out in the sun, he pulled me outside of myself in a real way. For a short while, this total stranger and I changed our routine and impacted each other. Tom’s medical needs are not standard; most of the residents have trouble getting
around like they used to, but it’s generally not due to serious medical needs — mostly it’s just part of growing older. Eagle Meadows is full of people ready to tell stories to curious listeners, and all any student has to do to be a part of it is walk in the front door and say hello.
to talk to people — people who will take an interest in them and are willing to walk at their pace for a moment and speak at their speed for a time. There isn’t a substitute for what they know; years of experience count for so much, and so many of them love sharing their past.
A walk from the library to Eagle Meadows only takes about five minutes. The “life enhancement” staff members also coordinates volunteers. They put together events like ice-cream feeds and bingo for each day so that the residents and visitors can take part. The staff at Eagle Meadows are especially interested in new ideas from volunteers about what other recreational activities could be possible. These events put meaning into the lives of residents; they spend a gratuitous amount of time just relaxing and letting life happen.
College living often distills into a to-do list. For many, it’s a must-do list. There is only so much time in each day for the people and work that fill each of our lives. Often, this leads to an “all about me” lifestyle. Essentially, you do what is required of you and hopefully spend time with the people you absolutely want to see. Because of our culture, the expectations placed on us, and expectations we place on ourselves, it’s difficult to live a life where others become more important than ourselves. An outlook that is selfless may be intangible, but striving for a perspective where others come first can bring meaning to life, and finding that meaning in life is kind of what it’s all about. Visiting Eagle Meadows is something that can pull you outside of a to-do list. It’s easy, basic — take a walk down Whitman and pay a visit.
Family visits are relatively frequent here, but visits from non-family volunteers are rare. Once a quarter, sponsored trips from the local elementary schools comprise the main visits to which Eagle Meadows residents look forward. The residents are eager
Service Organizations Reaching the Elderly Wheatland Village
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ission Mo ambique z Fundr aising Progress
Provides activities and entertainment for the elderly and disabled of Wheatland Village. Contact: Activities Director (509) 527-9600
Regency at the Park Facilitates an adopt-agrandparent program. Contact: Joe Scrivens (509) 529-4480
Park Manor Rehab
Provides companionship and visitation for the elderly. Contact: Andrea Lewis (509) 529-4218
Garrison Creek Lodge Provides entertainment, activities, and companionship for the elderly. Contact: Activities Director (509) 525-4990
Good Samaritan Home Provides conversation, companionship, and activities for the elderly. Contact: Pat Brooks (541) 938-7667
Odd Fellows Home
Provides housework and yard work as well as visitation for the elderly and disabled. Contact: Kayla Kirk (509) 526-6826
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How would you like some
$FREE MONEY$ Guess what? The money has already been donated. It’s waiting for you to claim it.
Apply at: wallawalla.edu/awards Applications are accepted Feb. 4 to Feb. 22 Learn about the donors: wallawalla.edu/endowments
EXECUTIVE
CABINET ELECTION
CANDIDATES
PRESIDENT JONO PRATT NATALIE SLUSARENKO
EXECUTIVE VP PHILIP DUCLOS ALEC THOMPSON
SOCIAL VP NANCY PATIÑO
SPIRITUAL VP ADAN RODARTE KARL WALLENKAMPF
GENERAL ELECTION
26 FEBRUARY WEC GYM
FEATURE
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Campus Unity
The Whole Body Approach
Elizabeth Jones
Feature Editor
The following article is based on the responses gained during a focus group held on Feb. 12, 2013. The group consisted of 11 participants and myself; it was composed of a survey and a discussion. As a whole, the group represented a wide variety of campus members. What is a student body? What kind of student body makes up Walla Walla University? Ethnically, WWU is 75 percent white, 12 percent Hispanic, 5 percent Asian, 3 percent black, 1.5 percent American Indian, and the rest is unknown. Socially, WWU is made up of a variety of clubs, ASWWU positions, worship groups (Berean, Hispanic Ministries, Circle Church, and others), high school cliques, and sports teams. Academically,
WWU offers a wide variety of majors, including engineering, history, chemistry, humanities, and business. There are also class-standing and year distinctions. Economically, WWU students also represent a wide variety of socioeconomic situations. With all of these potential ways to separate students, I asked a question about unity during the focus group.* While not everyone agreed on the type of segregation, or even how segregated the campus is, there was a hint of segregation found in almost everyone’s response. College is exciting because it offers students a place to find people who share similar interests and hobbies, but college should also be a time where unity and togetherness can be fostered and grow. The discussion part of the focus group centered on the question of segregation and on how WWU could move toward a more united student body.
school cliques, majors, and social groups, as well as racial groups. Almost every type of segregation stemmed from the desire to associate with others who are similar to one’s self, as well as the fear connected to stepping out of one’s comfort zone. This desire to associate with people similar to one’s self is partially a result of the medial prefrontal cortex brain region that categorizes people as being like one’s self, even if there is only one thing held in common. The MPFC then makes judgments about
students to separate from their friends in search of a more “diverse” group? Do we ignore the segregation and say we’re doing a good enough job? I don’t think either of those answers is what we as students want, and neither did the group of students with whom I talked. Ultimately, it seemed as though we all wanted a student body that allowed for diverse groups to come together on campus as a unified whole. There were many ideas that were discussed about ways to create this type of unity, and because ASWWU is the organization responsible for the reputation of the student body, a majority of the suggestions centered on how ASWWU could encourage unity. The most important, and potentially the easiest to accomplish as well, was for ASWWU leaders to lead by example. Many participants expressed the desire to see ASWWU leaders participate in a wide variety of student activities, despite the leaders’ personal interests, and to see the ASWWU leaders be the first to step out of their comfort zone and interact with students who they might not know well. Another suggestion was to increase ASWWU job advertisements in order to encourage more students to apply and to prevent job selection based on friend groups. One of the biggest suggestions for improvement was to provide more opportunities for students to be heard in smaller venues. One participant noted that the best connections he made with students
“Almost every type of segregation stemmed from the desire to associate with others who are similar to one’s self, as well as the fear connected to stepping out of one’s comfort zone.”
One of the first comments made during the discussion was that the segregation was not pure or an intentional racial segregation. The participants felt as though WWU was segregated into many different types of groups, such as high
people, causing humans to be drawn more towards those deemed parallel, because it is assumed these similar people will be similar in all areas of thought and activity.1 With part of the brain prone to grouping people by social similarities, a conscious effort should be made to interact with those deemed “different.” So, what is the next step? Do we force
Black — 3% American Indian — 1.5% Other — 3.5%
FEATURE who were not similar to him were made during Service Day, when he was placed in a small group. The participants felt that if there were more opportunities, such as confabs, special CommUnities, or ASWWU activities where students could simply talk to each other and ask questions, a greater sense of student body could be developed.
ds in o we Whether or doing not this group er of of students exwant, pressed ideas that with are thought and ed as felt by the entire that student body, geth- they expressed
is important to ensure that every member feels valued and a part of the student body. Taking the time and initiative to promote one, unified student body can increase friend groups, introduce new ideas and experiences, serve as a preparation for future jobs, or even make someone’s bad day a little brighter. As a member of the student body, I encourage you to start small and to think of ways that you might be able to develop an inclusive environment.
“There are little things that can be done every day to encourage a more united campus.”
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Smalls Ways to Promote Unity Make a conscious effort to say hello to those you pass on your way to class. Offer to help the new freshman at work complete a difficult task. Smile at the person you sit next to in class but to whom you never speak. Include the isolated class member in your group for a group project.
thoughts that are worth thinking dis1. Roger Highfield, “We prefer people we about. While it is hard to step out of comSit with someone new at the cafeteria. reate think are similar to ourselves,” The Telefort zones, unity is something that can be graph (United Kingdom), March 17, 2008, cause achieved by small gestures as well as grand accessed Feb. 19, 2013, telegraph.co.uk/ n reApply for an open ASWWU position. science/science-news/3336375/We-prefergestures. There are little things that can on of people-we-think-are-similar-to-ourselves. be done every day to encourage a more html. ty of united campus. As a diverse campus, it how unity. otensh as ers to rticio see “I believe it is segregated to a certain extent. If you look around campus, e in a most people tend to hang around people of their same ethnicity and don’t do ities, al ina good effort of getting out [of] their comfort zone.” WWU “I think campus is segregated, though ut of unintentionally, along racial lines.” eract know rease “It’s mostly segregated, but not just in terms er to of race but just culture wise, a certain class, superiority…” and riend “I feel it’s as unified ns for as you want it to pporbe. If you want to maller be a part of almost “In some ways, yes. In others, no. ASWWU “I think that it is very t the the whole campus, does a great job of trying to involve people dents unified from a relativistic
*Do you feel campus is unified, or do you feel as though campus is segregated? Please explain.
you can! If you want to be insular, you can make that happen as well.”
standpoint. There are still small segregations that I’ve noticed, but those may be by choice. I personally have never felt excluded or unwelcome.”
in activities during weeks and weekends, however sometimes I think that many people don’t hear about them either because they explicitly don’t want to or because they just don’t know.”
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LIFE
CULTURE
Have No Fear, the Oscars Are Here Grant Perdew
Academy Awards Mini-Ballot
Culture Editor
Well, it’s happening. The Oscars are here, and it is going to be an exhilarating night. That wicked genius behind Family Guy, Seth MacFarlane, is hosting, and we can expect the evening to be filled with tasteless delight. So don’t be surprised when you hear Stewie himself call out Daniel Day-Lewis on his immaculate acting record and swag. For those of you who hate movies and don’t know what the Academy Awards are, they are an awards ceremony set up in 1928 to honor achievement in film. The academy is made up of some of the most gifted and skilled artists and craftsmen in the motion-picture world, and depending on their professions, they nominate people with the same work to receive awards. For example, actors nominate actors, film editors nominate film editors, etc. Everyone is eligible to vote for best picture. The final results will be announced on the big night this weekend while you’re probably busy watching The Walking Dead. Sometimes, people dislike the Oscars because their favorite movies get snubbed. The
I like to watch the nominated films each year because they are usually quite phenomenal and thoughtprovoking, hmdesigns.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/oscars-2013-ballot.jpg but sometimes I think there big hit of the summer often gets snubbed, but could be a few more awards. For example, don’t be concerned: That’s really because the best stunt (stuntman Wayne Michaels broke Oscar panel members have bad memories. a world record for highest bungee jump in Many have suggested that these films would GoldenEye), best scene (your favorite inspirahave a chance of success if the public could tional speech), best title design (Star Wars or vote. I think this is a terrible idea, because then
BEST ORIGINAL SONG
This year it’s going to be Adele’s “Skyfall,” but I’ve included the other terrific tracks as well for your listening pleasure. tinyurl.com/blxpmsg
2013 NOMINEES Norah Jones
"Everybody Needs a Best Friend" from Ted This big, brassy jazz tune shines out with the power of amity and friendship, even if it’s just with a spirited bear.
J. Ralph
"Before My Time" from Chasing Ice Scarlett Johansson and violinist Joshua Bell are featured on the soundtrack of this documentary on climate change.
there’s a greater chance Hayden Christensen or a Michael Bay film could win, and the world would turn to chaos.
Casino Royale), best casting/ensemble (The Lord of the Rings), or best trailer (think how compelled you were to run to the theater after seeing that Inception teaser). This year, nine spectacular films have been nominated for best picture, and the race is a close one. If you’d like to make your own picks for the winners of 2013, fill out your own mini-ballot and compare it with the results revealed this Sunday night.
LOCAL FOCAL Inland Octopus
The goal of owner of this fantastic toy shop is to create the greatest toy store in the world, and he is well on his way to success. Just after taking a few steps inside, you already will have tried out puppets, inquired into the yodeling pickle, and quite possibly even discovered a brand-new glockenspiel to play on the sidewalk for passersby. Whether going for toy purchases or just for an amusing afternoon activity, the Inland Octopus is where it’s at. Mon.–Sun. 10 a.m.–9 p.m.
PREVIOUS WINNERS
Hugh Jackman
"Suddenly" from Les Misérables The composer of the original 1985 musical returned to write this brand new song for the 2012 adaptation.
Mychael Danna
"Pi’s Lullaby" from Life of Pi The lyrics of this serenade are in traditional Tamil, which aid the mood and evoke the feeling of the film.
A.R. Rahman
"Jai Ho" from Slumdog Millionaire The famous song accompanying the choreographed dance sequence has inspired movement across the globe.
Jason Segel
"Man or Muppet" from The Muppets Written by Bret McKenzie of Flight of the Conchords, this ballad contrasts the different identities within our hearts.
Glen Hansard
"Falling Slowly" from Once Since its popularity arose, this song has become one of the most covered songs of the decade for its simplicity and beauty.
Eminem
"Lose Yourself" from 8 Mile The first rap song to win an Academy Award, “Lose Yourself” also earned five Grammy nominations.
DIVERSIONS
YOU ASKED FOR IT
The Advice You Need to Hear Now that it is week seven of winter quarter, I’ve lost my motivation. I feel like I cannot keep up with everything, and I am so overwhelmed. How can I pull myself out of this slum of despair? — Engulfed Edna Dear EE, I have a solution for you: Get ticked off. I completely understand your lack of motivation, but your classes and homework are the enemies, and the only way you can show them who runs your life is to punch them square in their faces, with your intelligence. So, here is what you do: Take 10 minutes and spread all your homework out on the floor. Then, put on your favorite dubstep (may I suggest the Calvin Harris’ song “Iron,” or maybe Rihanna’s “Fresh Off the Runway?”) and then dance and scream and tell your homework how hard you are going to destroy it. Do a couple of air punches, then some high kicks, and after all that, silently stare at your homework. Once you’ve finished and regained your breath, grab your utensil of death and power (i.e., a pen or pencil) and regain your life and happiness. You can apply this exercise to anything you’re overwhelmed about. Every hour, just stop and take 10 minutes to jump and scream and dance and run. Take breaks, relax; you will get it finished one way or another. You are the captain of your own ship. YOU ARE ISHMAEL! GO KILL THAT WHALE!
LIFE
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Weeding Out the Weak Ones In case you haven’t read the Culture page (Lord
Eric Weber knows I haven’t), it’s the Oscars this weekend. Diversions Editor
Normally, I wouldn’t miss the Oscars: I mean who wouldn’t want to watch an awards show where privileged, undereducated white people get awards for playing charades? But this year I am unable to watch the Oscars for two reasons. The first reason is that my cat is dying and I need to shoot her in the back yard (I love you, Frankie, but I don’t love your vomit). The second reason is that when I see that many beautiful people in the same room, I’m unable to control myself. My little Amish boy façade crumbles, and I turn into Channing Tatum from Magic Mike, without the GrecoRoman chest or the angelic jawline. So basically I look like Ellen DeGeneres. But one thing I won’t be missing is the ASWWU elections: Not only do I find it interesting how candidates answer questions about pressing issues on campus, but I also enjoy how they answer questions like, “Do you prefer white bread over wheat bread?” “Do you have swag?” “Is Rachel Maddow a man or a woman?” “Did you wear that on purpose or do you like looking homeless?” and “Who is your least favorite freshman?” Hopefully questions like these can help us weed out the weak candidates. Listen to me read my column at soundcloud.com/eweberz.
Need advice? Send me an email at eric.weber@wallawalla.edu and we can anonymously work this out together. Maze by Grant Perdew
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LIFE
SPORTS
SPORTS
Different Priorities Tye Forshee
Softball Scores Friday, Feb. 15 WWU vs. Northwestern University, 1–8 Friday, Feb. 15 WWU vs. Northwestern University, 1–6 Sunday, Feb. 17 WWU vs. Big Bend, 1–15 Sunday, Feb. 17 WWU vs. Big Bend, 0–8
The NCAA made over $800 million in revenue last year. The University of Texas made over $24 million last year alone. While the NCAA is technically an “amateur” sports league, it might as well be professional considering the amount of money it makes off TV deals. The NCAA is a money-making business that profits off students who often go to school for free. WWU doesn’t have the luxury of revenue made from our athletic programs. The university doesn’t have the capital to offer full-ride scholarships to athletes to play for the Wolves. If you want to play sports for WWU, it is not because of the prestige or the chance to “make it big,” so why does the university even have an athletic program? Does the university just have an ath-
Lauren Silberman is scheduled to be the first woman participant at an NFL regional scouting combine as a kicker. AC Milan upset Barcelona 2–0 in the Champions League on Wednesday.
It is not easy to be an athlete at WWU, though. While many schools give their athletes scholarships, athletes at WWU are often found working on campus over 20 hours a week. They still have the same curriculum that other students have, but they also may have up to 10 hours of practice a week. Athletes at the university also use many of their weekends and holidays traveling to other schools to play sports. While state schools often have a lower standard
for athletes academically, WWU holds its athletes to the same standard as all other students. The school has shown a renewed interest in its athletic program by creating team locker rooms for the athletes and a new softball field. There are also plans in the works to renovate the gymnasium itself, which would include new wooden floors. The school has to be creative financially when trying to ensure the best athletic program it has to offer. The university is still in the process of building up its athletic program for students. WWU is never going to be creating revenue with its athletic program; it is definitely creating more opportunities for students. WWU has not created a program to make money off of students like the NCAA. It has created a program to ensure students can have the best experience possible at WWU, something on which people can agree money is well spent.
Heroes Among Us
News Lance Armstrong is refusing to tell the USADA how he was able to cheat undetected for so long.
Sports Editor
letic program because other schools have one? While it may seem like it to some, the university has an athletic program to offer opportunity to students. Students play sports for WWU because they love the game, they like the relationships they form, and they enjoy the opportunity to increase their skills. Many athletes at WWU are excited just to have the opportunity to play collegiate sports. Other student athletes at WWU would not even be attending the university if the school did not offer an inter-collegiate sports program.
Trevor Boyson
Sports Editor
As a culture, we often hold sports players in high esteem. Their superhuman feats make them seem like gods to us mere mortals. South African Oscar Pistorius is even more impressive — his occupation is running, and he doesn’t have any legs. Nicknamed “Blade Runner,” Pistorius is mobilized on the track by two prosthetic legs that are bowed pieces of carbon fiber. With them, he competed in the 2012 Olympics and won three medals in the 2012 Paralympics. As a competing public figure, Pistorius is both impressive and inspirational as an image of overcoming adversity. Last week, that all changed. Pistorius was arrested last Thursday in connection to a dead woman in his home. As news developed, the facts became more and more disheartening. The woman was
Oscar Pistorius’ girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp, and she was killed after being shot four times through the bathroom door. The police revealed that there had been previous incidents of a “domestic nature” at the Pistorius home. Ironically, Steenkamp was to speak later that Valentine’s Day to high school students about how she left her hometown because of an abusive boyfriend. Pistorius has declared that it was an accident of self-defense against what he thought was an intruder. The police are pursuing charges of premeditated murder.
that life extends much further than the fields on which athletes compete.
Though what we know is disheartening, only time will reveal what actually happened. Outside the results of the pending investigation, this serves as a rude awakening to the fact that the athletes we idolize or admire are mere humans, and as such they are susceptible to the same pitfalls as anyone else. Athletes who get DUIs, Tiger Woods’ fall from dominance after his wife and the world learned of his unfaithfulness, and even this sad occasion are indications
Sadly, however this story shapes up, Oscar “Blade Runner” Pistorius’ life will be forever changed. Whatever the circumstances, Reeva Steenkamp is still dead. Either way, Pistorius’ story will no longer be remembered as a feel-good one. Although it’s sad, we must remember that the same athletes that inspire us as human beings are not immune to even the most devastating of mistakes.
In the same way, the sphere of their influence extends beyond their actions in competition. This situation has already rocked South Africa, whose citizens were more than proud to be the home of the “Blade Runner.” If the charges are true, I shudder to think how disappointing this will be to kids struggling with adversity, especially any form of disability, that had looked to Pistorius in awe and saw him as inspiration.
FOODIE
LIFE
21
Banana Crumble Muffins Amy Alderman Food Editor
Did you enjoy your long weekend? Did you get lots of sleep, get ahead on all your homework, and feel completely rested for the next few weeks ahead? Yeah, I didn’t either.
Because this month is American Heart Month, I wanted to make sure you know how great bananas can be for your heart health. Bananas are great for the reduction of heart disease when they’re included in a diet that is low in saturated fat and cholesterol. Not only are bananas fat, cholesterol, and sodium free, they’re also a great source of potassium, dietary fiber, manganese, and vitamins B6 and C.1
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Banana bread is always a good solution for old bananas (you can find a recipe in the bar at the bottom), but
sometimes it’s fun to try something new. These muffins make a great after-class snack or an excellent coffee cake alternative for breakfast.
1. chiquitabananas.com/worlds-favorite-fruit/ index-banana-nutrition-facts.aspx.
Banana Crumble Muffins Preheat oven to 375°F | Bake time: 18–20 mins
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If you left any bananas in your dorm room or kitchen over the weekend, they’ve probably gone bad by now. Thankfully, I’ve got a delicious recipe to help you use up those browned bananas before you toss them out.
What you’ll need: measuring cups and spoons,medium and large bowl, muffin pan, muffin cups Muffins: 1½ cups flour 3 bananas, mashed 1 tsp. baking soda ¾ cup white sugar 1 tsp. baking powder 1 egg, lightly beaten ½ tsp. salt ⅓ cup butter, melted Crumble Topping: ⅓ cup brown sugar ⅛ tsp. cinnamon 2 Tbsp. flour 1 Tbsp. butter.
Photos by Amy Alderman
Banana Bread
In a large bowl, mix together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, beat together bananas, sugar, egg, and melted butter. Stir the banana mixture into the flour mixture just until moistened. Spoon batter into prepared muffin cups. In a small bowl, mix together topping of brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse cornmeal. Sprinkle topping over muffins. Bake for 18–20 minutes.
If banana bread is more your thing, try out this recipe that my family has been making for decades: 1 cup sugar, ½ cup shortening, 2 eggs, ¾ cup chopped walnuts (optional), 4 Tbsp. milk, 3 mashed bananas, 1 tsp. baking soda, 2 cups flour. Directions: Preheat oven to 350°F. Cream sugar and shortening together. Add eggs and bananas. Add flour, baking soda, and walnuts. Bake for one hour.
22
LIFE
SCIENCE & TECH
More Robotic Limbs
Photo by The Independent
Spencer Cutting Science & Tech Editor
A few weeks ago, I wrote about a robotic arm being developed at the University of Pittsburgh that can be controlled via electrodes implanted in the brain. I mentioned that, despite being an amazing and futuristic piece of technology, the device provides no tactile feedback, and the researchers hope to remedy this in the future.
electrodes connected directly to the median and ulnar nerves of the arm. Signals will be received from the brain to control it and returned to the brain from sensors in the palm, fingertips, and wrist. Back in 2009, a Brazilian man named Pierpaolo Petruzziello was able to control a similar hand connected in a simi-
The hand was not directly attached to Petruzziello, but, like the Pittsburgh arm, it remained separate from him. The Micera hand will feature more sensors, but it is only a short-term test and will be removed from the as-yet anonymous recipient after a month. Furthermore, the wires connecting to the implanted electrodes will penetrate directly through the skin, and a better solution than this will be needed in the future. Also, it is unknown how the recipient will respond to having all of this stuff constantly attached to his or her arm. Despite the current limitations, this is truly a remarkable project.
“Despite the current limitations, this is truly a remarkable project.“
Just a couple of months from now, Silvestro Micera, a professor of biomedical engineering from Switzerland, hopes to install a robotic hand on an unnamed patient, according to a press release from the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne 1 (the university at which he is employed) and The Independent.2
Unlike the Pittsburgh arm, Micera’s hand will not connect directly to the brain. Rather, it will be controlled by
lar way with only four electrodes. As in the case of the Pittsburgh arm, Petruzziello required training in order to use the hand. As he learned to use the device, he recalled thinking, “Your hand does exist; it’s there; it’s in place,” and said, “at a mental level, it’s very stressing.” While the hand only had one sensory area — the palm — he was able to feel prickling sensations when the palm was touched.
1. documents.epfl.ch/groups/m/me/ mediacomfiles/www/AAAS13/ AAAS13_Micera/EmbargoedPressRelease_Micera.pdf. 2. independent.co.uk/news/science/asensational-breakthrough-the-first-bionic-hand-that-can-feel-8498622.html.
COLUMN
LIFE 23
Women, Sex, and Value erwise you’re just asking for trouble.
Heather Moor
Columnist
At the end of my last article, I made a very broad statement that I’d write about women and sex. Since there’s so much I could talk about, I decided to start with the foundation: sexuality and value.
This is frustrating to me, because as Christians our motto is that our identity is in Christ, right? Then why do I talk to so many people who feel like they are worthless after they have “lost” their purity? What are we doing to those men and women who don’t feel ... “pure?” This past summer, my husband and I worked in the youth tent at Oregon Conference camp meeting. There was a question-and-answer session, and the most popular subject by far was relationships. We answered these questions as best we could with a panel of youth leaders ranging from older male pastors to female college recruiters.
“She was really asking the question, ‘Am I even lovable?’“
It seems to me that in this world — secular or Christian — a woman’s value often comes from her sexuality. Women are given one of two very generalized labels: pure or sexually experienced. Now different cultural frameworks place value on either status, and if we make it into a scale, it kind of looks like this: Pure
Sexually Experienced
We have two very generalized extremes and a whole lot in between that nobody really defines or talks about. And really, most of us feel like we fall somewhere in that middle. However, as young women we are taught by our culture that men like women who have taken charge of their sexuality, which is often defined not only by enjoying sex, but also by engaging in it frequently and often without attachment. There are many TV shows that revolve around sex and relationships which tell us that the women who are powerful, successful, and worthy of being role models are not afraid of their sexuality, and they can in fact use it to their advantage and advancement. On the other side, Christians hold purity in the highest regard. We point out the flaws of careless sexual pursuit and condemn it as damaging and sinful. We have been taught that sexual modesty is the best policy, so don’t even go there. And you’d better dress modestly, too; oth-
“Why do we live in a Christian world where these girls don’t know if they deserve to be loved again?“ I remember one question in particular that really opened my eyes to what damage these conflicting identities have caused: “If you have gone too far sexually, and you want to get into another relationship but you feel used and don’t feel worthy of dating again, what can you do?”
When I read this during the panel, my heart broke. This girl felt completely worthless because she felt she had gone too far. She was really asking the question, “Am I even lovable?” That question resonated with me, even as a happily married Christian woman, and I had heard this question before from friends and acquaintances who were facing the same issues after a breakup or relationship crisis. As we get older and lines of what is OK and what isn’t become blurred, that question is still there.
that we are wonderful and valuable and precious because we’ve been told so not by people, but by Jesus.
“As I get older, I realize that when I stop being so busy from trying to live up to these labels or trying to figure out which ones apply to me, I can hear that voice audibly telling me that I don’t need those labels at all.“
I talked to several other girls over the course of that week about relationships, sex, and sexual healing. It was amazing how ashamed these young ladies felt about who they were after they had gone further than they felt was OK. For one girl who had been attacked, the blame was placed on herself as she told me, “I should have been strong enough to say no.” Why do we live in a Christian world where these girls don’t know if they deserve to be loved again? I’m not really sure why. It’s almost as if we have forgotten to whom we really belong. We’ve traded in our “worldly” labels for Christianized ones that still make us feel worthless. I don’t think that’s how it was ever supposed to work. We’re supposed to trade in all the labels, knowing
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: the old has gone, the new is here!” — 2 Corinthians 5:17
I’m a new creation in Christ, so the old labels don’t apply? That certainly isn’t what the loudest voices in my life have been saying, with the noise of society telling me I must be sexy for my husband to love me, or I must be innocent for my community to accept me. As I get older, I realize that when I stop being so busy from trying to live up to these labels or trying to figure out which ones apply to me, I can hear that voice audibly telling me that I don’t need those labels at all. Women, we must remind ourselves to turn in our labels instead of holding onto them like they somehow measure who we are, and we must stop trying to make those same labels stick on the other women around us. We must respect each other enough to look past the labels and to see the people for whom they are — beautiful. Once we do that, the world can only follow.
“The best thing since sliced bread.”
Verbatim SUPER JEWEL QUEST “I wish I were Jewish. It’s a really cool heritage. Not like 20 years ago, though.” — Alix Harris
“In engineering, we don’t care. It’s mathematicians who care about those little details.” — Brian Roth
“If you don’t have time, money, or women, you don’t have anything.” — Curt Nelson
“You know ... it smells like coffee in here.” — Tiffany Nelson, in The Atlas
“Telling someone you’re a harmless virgin probably isn’t the best way to stave off a rapist.” — Kellie Bond, on Florinda in The Rover.
Taco Truck or Taco Bell?
Onions, check sjqww.tumblr.com for hints. Email me for fabulous prizes. I just stocked up.
“A taco truck, because it’s legit, homemade Mexican food.”
When Aragorn returns to town To save the world and claim his crown, The timpani will crash and boom And o’er jewel one this tree will bloom. With chocolate suit and licorice tie, and gazing through his cool mint eyes, Jewel #2 you soon will find Between the `bowl and bathroom lines. The lights designed by Ottomans, To help to light their caravans Trav’ ling the globe for beans and teas, Jewel three is lit by one of these.
“Probably Taco Bell, because it seems to be a little bit safer.”
Erika Romero
Asher Matthews
“Taco truck, because it’s real Mexican food.” Ana Mendoza
“Taco Bell, ‘cause the trucks look sketch.” Teleisha Batuik
“Taco truck, because … it’s more homemade. There’s more flavor [put] into it.” Marco Martinez
Hear something funny? Report it! julian.weller@wallawalla.edu
Julian Weller The Heel Editor
Going home can feel like your mom is trying to force you back into your old baby clothes. I don’t know if you’ve felt that way, or felt instead like your baby clothes were thrown out as soon as you left, but either way it can be weird, even painful, returning home and figuring out where you stand now. What role do you play? I’ve been talking to friends while working on this column, and I know I’m not the only one who’s noticed the way roles change once you’ve lived on your own. I felt the shift the most last summer, when I flew home from living in England
and backpacking for two months. It took a while for me to get used to living with my family and working full-time at a daycare. Those are two very different ways of life, and it took a week for me to realize I could start making long-term plans again; that I wouldn’t be catching the train out of town in a few days. The way I thought about myself had changed, too. I’ve grown up happy in my hometown, but after living in different countries with different families, I know Seattle isn’t the only place I want to be. In my mind, going to college is exactly the same as traveling. In a new campus or a new country, you’re wasting your time and money if you don’t try anything new. If you behave exactly like you would at home, what’s the point in ever leaving? In both places you learn, meet new people, and hopefully have experiences that change you for the better.
You should not be seeking out more of the same. Your vision should be expanding. Your map should look like one of those terrible Family Circus cartoons where Billy runs all over everything. If your Family Circus comic has just one set of footprints back and forth between the car and the house, you are failing. This is exactly the problem I have with Olive Garden, Subway, and Taco Bell.1 When I go out to eat, I want to taste new things, at least sometimes. Yes, reliability and structure are also important, but they’re not everything. This quarter, I’ve been writing about the balance of the individual and the community, and I’d be a hypocrite if I started waving some Emersonian, fresh-to-death, hipster banner that read “Always Be Original.” That’s impossible, but if you’re going out of your way to pay money to learn or
taste new things, actually follow through and do it. Don’t just get another soggy crunchwrap supreme or a plate of Olive Garden breadsticks. With all these changing roles, I’ve been thinking a lot about, sigh, the future. I’ll write more about that next week, Onions. What I will say for now is, while it’s alarming and uncomfortable to visit home, to see which clothes you’ve outgrown, and to wonder about what which ones you’d like to own, that is probably as it should be. And it’s still infinitely better than any bizarre sort of Benjamin Button scenario, where you’re only 20 years old but act like you’re 40. 1. I.e., the Axis of Evil.