Tuesday February 5, 2019
Volume 15 Issue 4 Student publication of Corban University
Hilltop News
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@corban_hilltopnews
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Wonder By Megan Trahan Editor-in-Chief
In Matthew 18:3, Jesus said ,“Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” And what do little children do best but use their imaginations to marvel at everything from something as small as a bug to something as a big as the sky. Did you know that God loves it when we wonder? He invites us to wonder. He encourages us to wonder. What causes you to wonder? God has built a whole world for our exploration and examination, our admiration and appreciation, our discovery and dazzlement. William Blake says in his “Songs of Innocence,” “To see a World in a Grain of Sand And a Heaven in a Wild Flower, Hold Infinity in the palm of your hand And Eternity in an hour.” So, smell the coffee: deep, bitter. Hear the birds: soft, melodious. Taste the chocolate: sweet, smooth. What makes you wonder? Everywhere we look we can find joy. We can marvel in the complexity of mathematics, in the curiosity of learning, in the depth of music and in all parts of our lives. Each and every time God blesses you, it is a time to wonder. That time a friend brought you coffee when you truly needed the caffeine. The time your professor cancelled an assignment. The
Mr. VG contestants pushed in numerous tests - pg 4
How to get involved on campus - pg 6-7
time when your parents sent you a package in the mail. All are blessings, and all are something to wonder at. What causes you to wonder? And when we look at one of God’s greatest creations, man, how can we not be amazed? Did you know that the brain can create as many ideas as there are atoms in the universe? Did you know that our bones are four times stronger than concrete? Did you know that a red blood cell can circumnavigate your body in less than 20 seconds? Our bodies contain awe-inspiring worlds that are so often overlooked and taken for granted. Wonder at everything, for everything can be wonderful. In my favorite children’s book, “The Phantom Tollbooth,” the protagonist, Milo, enters a land where the people of a beautiful city walked so fast and took no notice of anything that, eventually, the city faded away into nothingness. That sounds like a world I know. Students, heads bowed over their glowing hands. Eyes glued to the screens. Walking faster and faster. And as the world of winter turns into that of spring, will we see it? For it will slowly begin to fade. Milo was told that only after the return of Rhyme and Reason would this city be repaired to the way it should be, the way it used to be. And when that day came, the people took notice, and the city was transformed into its pristine and glorious self. Fully visible. When we wonder, Rhyme and Reason return. Appreciating the world around us will enrich our experience in it, and we can be as beautiful as the city. For, just as it is in our nature to be creative, it is in our nature to wonder at God’s creation. Let’s not neglect the world God has gifted us with, but cultivate it and wonder at it, for wonder leads to wonder. And so I ask you, what makes you wonder?
Valentine’s Day from different perspectives - pg 9
Baseball starts season with young team - pg 11
2 | Editorial
THE
HILLTOP Student publication of Corban University 5000 Deer Park Dr. SE Salem, OR 97317
Editor-in-Chief Megan Trahan Photo Editor Michaela Sanderson Staff Writers Trevor Bond Hannah Brumage David Miller Columnists Jessica Abbott Rachel Stadeli Guest Writers Isaac Calderon Allison Herrin Jeslyn Pool Freelance Writers Makenna Dillon Maxwell Jeffrey Connor Morton Nathanael Schellenberg Natasha Wilson Online Editor Jennifer Hutson Yearbook Editor Maddee Hawken
The Hilltop | February 5, 2019
Editorial: Ignore the gradients Good or bad. Yes or no. Is this how life works? Is it all black and What would it look like if God judged you for these “small” sins? He white? Or is it more of a grey scale... slowly darkening until we reach does not see gradient. We are pure black, dirty with our selfishness, full black? Maybe it depends on how we see the world. hands dripping with dark, oily sin. It can get pretty messy when we use a grey scale to look at others. Romans 3:10 says, “Do we have any advantage? Not at all! For we We judge them based on their gradient. have already made the charge that Jews and Gentiles alike are all Did he curse? A spot of black in the mix. Was she wearing a reveal- under the power of sin. As it is written, ‘There is no one righteous, ing shirt? A couple more. not even one.’” We compare ourselves to their grey and feel better about ourselves. We have no advantage over others who we may see as worse sinIt can be easy to think that as long as we are doing better in our walk ners, for God looks at the heart and sees the brokenness of all. In with Christ than someone else, we are doing all right. His eyes, we are as depraved as the worst of us all. After all, we are grey, but it is like chalk But that isn’t the end of the story. compared to their slate. The most pivotal part of our lives as We compare ourselves to We are so good at being right. Christians was when we chose to follow their grey and feel better For some reason, we think we must always Jesus. We may have been young, or it act perfectly. We go to a Christian college; could have been last year. But when we about ourselves. It can be it’s what we do. did, God came and did something only easy to think that as long We must always do the right thing and perGod can do. form the expected tasks. Go to church, serve God turned black into white. as we are doing better in the poor, post Scripture on our Instagram And isn’t that the greatest news you have our walk with Christ than story. While none of these things are bad ever heard! in the least, when we use them to put up a For we are the most broken anyone can someone else, we are doing front of our perfection, we are telling a lie. find, no matter how many Bible verses we all right. Even worse, we can tend to shun others have memorized. Nothing we can do can when they aren’t as “clean” as we are. They cleanse our hearts. don’t match the stereotype for the Christian student. God made it clear that it is not about what we do, but what Christ One student may still be learning not to swear. Another may did for us that makes us holy. be struggling with pornography or drinking. How are we treating So, when we look at our fellow Christians here on campus, let’s them? look at them with the love that God has given us. Let’s look at them Obviously, we shouldn’t condone their behavior, but does that as God did, as if they were the whitest snow. mean we ignore them? Sit on the other side of the lobby. Never ask When we see those people, the ones we try to avoid, let’s reach how they are doing. And, heaven forbid, people see us hanging out out a hand and walk along with them, hear about their troubles and with them. They might think we are as flawed as those people. listen to their stories. Matthew 7:1 says simply, “Judge not, that you be not judged.” We are all struggling with something. And when we learn to ignore Such a simple sentence that stops us in our tracks. the gradients and simply care about others, when we stop judging, Take a minute and think. Think of every little thing you did wrong: then we will no longer consider ourselves better and will be able to gossiped about a friend, talked back to your parents or thought see “white” instead of “grey.” about a person with lust.
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Thank You Thank you, freelancers, for being willing to take time out of your busy schedules to write for Hilltop. You made this issue possible.
Shoutout to: Freelancers: Makenna Dillon Maxwell Jeffrey Connor Morton Nathanael Schellenberg Natasha Wilson
Guest Writers: Isaac Calderon Allison Herrin Jeslyn Pool And to all of those who were ready and willing to write!
Advisers Dr. Steve Halliday Ellen Kersey
Staff Column:
The Hilltop publications – newspaper, yearbook and website – serve as a student-led forum for the student body. Their mission is to tell true stories that contribute to authentic Christian community at Corban. Their staff seeks to practice journalism that is true, substantiated, fair and dedicated to Jesus Christ. Hilltop publications do not represent Corban’s faculty, administration or trustees; rather, they provide a significant student perspective. Letters are welcomed and will be printed on a first-received basis. They must include the author’s name and phone number. Letters are subject to editing for space and clarity. The staff can be reached at hilltopnews@corban.edu. Front page artwork by Hannah Brumage
Why do I do what I do? By Megan Trahan Editor-in-Chief
I decided to serve Corban by becoming Hilltop’s editor-in-chief. Did I love being a staff writer? Honestly, not that much. Am I a journalism major? No. Do I want to be involved in journalism in the future? That is a pretty strong “no.” So why did I agree? Because, even though I’m not a fan of journalism, I saw the importance of having a school publication. I wanted to fix some of the problems I saw as a staff writer, and I wanted to continue with the great traditions and methods that have worked so well. First semester was great. Sure, it was a lot to handle, but my team helped me and backed me up. I was doing okay. I was encouraged by friends who immediately picked up the paper after distribution. I was encouraged by the faculty and staff who emailed me to say they appreciated what I wrote. I was encouraged every time I saw a student reading the paper, knowing that even if I never would officially meet them, my work and my words were making a difference, no matter how small. But there are times when I hear that people would rather have an underground paper than read the Hilltop. I tell myself no one cares about the paper I try so hard to produce. Does it really matter? Would anyone notice if Hilltop never came out? These doubts can crowd my thoughts, discouraging me. I must remind myself of the truth. There are students who will never pick up a paper except to shove it under a wobbly table. But, on the other hand, there are students who look forward to reading what we have to say. And I can’t please everyone. And that is okay, because, first and foremost, I need to please God in my work. I need to do my best, not because I want recognition, but because God has given this responsibility to me, and I need to steward it well.
“Take a breath, child, Close your eyes and breathe, Find your peace in Me. Now open your eyes, warrior, Fight the battle and conquer, Find your strength in Me. Pull back your hair, beautiful, Hold your head high and your smile wide, Find your worth in Me. Reach out your hand, loved one, Lean into My embrace, Find your purpose in Me.”
- Megan Trahan
February 5, 2019 | The Hilltop
Campus Voice | 3
Plummeting head-first into a semester abroad When confronted with the option of studyThis morning breakfast dish of rice, beans, ing in Europe or studying in Latin America, peppers, onions, cilantro and Salsa Lizano there was no chance of me picking anywhere was incredible, especially for someone with else in the world. Latin America, with her col- as many food allergies as I have! I thought ors, her music, her native tongue, her brilliant that coming to a foreign country would make foods, passionate people and her complicated it more difficult to eat safely, but I could not history had won my heart from the get-go. have been more wrong. One of the most important things about Maybe that extra layer of happy made me studying abroad was learning a language braver, but I actually felt safe to experiment and a culture very different from my own, there. In fact, by the time I got back, it was and Costa Rica gave me that opportunity. In hard for me to adjust to eating differently my program, we were very than everyone else relationship-oriented, and again. In Costa Rica, language was (and is) a the difference in my The funny thing about fundamental part of reladiet was hardly notrying to learn a tionships. ticeable to others. The funny thing about Dinner was a social language through trying to learn a language time, and I got to enimmersion (even with a through immersion (even joy food with people. with a little bit under your What a novel idea! little bit under your belt belt from previous study) As for what I learned from previous study) is is that it feels like trying to spiritually, I appreciknit a parachute while in ated what I learned that it feels like trying the process of free falling. about God through to knit a parachute All rules that I'd applied the believers there. to my education -- the art I'm still learning to while in the process of of forcing good grades question quietly and free falling. through pure work ethic-listen intently, so I were utterly useless to me don't miss when God while I rewired my brain in is teaching me somea different language. thing fundamental through a brother or sisWhat a great experience though: remind- ter. I'm learning that God expresses himself ing me that the world thinks in so many dif- differently in different cultures. God is too ferent sounds and expressions. I knew only great, too complicated, too powerful, too inone way until I took the time and effort to tricate and beautiful to be tied down to any learn another. one culture. My days in Costa Rica began early. The sun It was truly a privilege to glimpse our great was up at 5:00 and so was I. It's incredible God by experiencing just one more of the what a little vitamin D can do for your system! many cultures in our world. By knowing His My "Made in Oregon" brain was blown. It was people in Costa Rica, I learned more about His such an incredible experience to wake up hap- love, His forgiveness and His desire for justice. py and warm and ready to start the day! I can only imagine how much more about Mi Mamá was always up at the same time, God I will learn in life as I learn and experibustling around the kitchen making gallo pin- ence other cultures, and as I learn to love the to. diversity of His children, my people.
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By Jeslyn Pool Guest Writer
Deciding to study abroad was not necessarily a leap of faith for me. It was more a leisurely stroll off the edge of a cliff. I didn't have any idea what God had in store for me, and, although it terrified my security-oriented personality, I just kept walking until the path ended, and I signed on and plummeted headfirst into a semester abroad. I studied in Costa Rica, located just north of Panama at the very tail end of Central America. Latin American culture has always had a place in my heart. As the culture of many of my friends’ families, it was a part of my childhood, and it was a part of my high school years because I chose to work in the Christmas tree fields, where I learned the majority of my Spanish outside of the conventional classroom. Working long hours out in the field listening to a Mexican radio station, eating lunch in the still scorching shade and chatting as we worked our way down the long rows with the other ladies, I learned to build relationships in Spanish. I had a hard time not knowing where to fit that love of Spanish and culture into my college life.
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Artwork by Jeslyn Pool
We strive to make your voice known. Send your ideas, photos and writing to hilltopnews@corban.edu.
Jess sayin’
By Jessica Abbott Hilltop Columnist
Over the past three and a half years, I’ve learned college students have only one commodity of greater value than overrated chicken nuggets and “late night adventures!” where you literally just go to WinCo: stress. Just go up to people and ask how they’re doing. Chances are they’ll say fine, then ask you the same question. Tell them you’re stressed because you have a big paper coming up. You probably won’t be able to finish your sentence before they respond: “Oh, you’re stressed? Well, I have a paper due in my lit class, my lesson in Teaching the Bible is on Friday, and all of my Lit Crit readings are due tomorrow – and I haven’t done any of them for the past month. There’s a physics test on Thursday, and I’m not even in physics, but my best friend is, and wow he’s a mess right now. I should work on my capstone that I don’t have to do until senior year, but I want to get a head start on. I have a group project meeting tonight and another meeting for work after that, and…” And they won’t stop until you crinkle your eyebrows, briefly nod your head, and say “Wow. I’m sorry,” as if you had no right to be stressed in the first place. For maximum results, I recommend doing this experiment with a junior or senior education major. They won’t shut up. Trust me, I’m student teaching, and wooah Nelly! I have to do the edTPA and my capstone while doing full-time teaching, and, even though I’m not fully planning the lessons yet, it’s still just so hard and ... have you seen my Instagram story? You should already know how stressed I am if you have. I’m so much more stressed than you will ever be, and I’ve already had seven cups of coffee today and… And let’s stop this. We’re all stressed. We all have assignments and projects to finish. Maybe you do have a lot on your plate, but that doesn’t mean someone with a little less isn’t also stressed. Yeah, some seniors have demanding capstones and projects, and we’re going to complain about them (except the English majors; they don’t get to complain. Amirite, ladies?). But everyone else has plenty going on, too. I guess if this is a stress competition, you’ll want to waste all of your time comparing your stress to other people’s. It’s like a glitch in the system. Or a cheat code, like the ones I used to get more coins in Club Penguin, so I could buy a puffle. I’m a highly competitive person, so the idea of winning is appealing. But I don’t want to play this game anymore. All I get out of it is more stress and no puffles.
4 | News
The Hilltop | February 5, 2019
S. Korean students experience culture: Costco hot dogs and Walmart By Makenna Dillon Freelance Writer
The Center for Global Engagement coordinated a cross-cultural experience for 10 students from Cheongju National University of Education in South Korea. The students arrived Jan. 25 and will be staying through Feb. 23. They will gain valuable experience for teaching, learning and experiencing other cultures in an authentic way. Sam Pearson, the associate director for the Center for Global Engagement, and the Education Department worked together to bring the South Korean students to Oregon, and will be taking a group of Corban students to South Korea this summer. For the first week they were here, the South Korean students stayed in dorms with Corban students. Emily Olson, who is both hosting these students and visiting South Korea this summer, said she participated again because of the positive experience she had last year, and she
wanted to prepare for her time in South Korea. “I learned about k-pop and the ‘little kiss’ hand gesture,” she said. She was also surprised to learn that church services in South Korea were virtually the same as in the U.S. The goal of the exchange was to teach South Koreans and their hosts about each other’s cultures. One of their activities was visiting a South Korean restaurant and allowing the exchange students to order their hosts’ meals. Olson explained that for her “food was a meaningful way for us to relate to each other.” Olson’s guest, Su Min, enjoyed experiencing American culture by eating a Costco hot dog and taking a late night Walmart run. They laughed together at that weekend’s basketball games and over Olson’s use of chopsticks. By the end of the week, Olson announced that Su Min “went from being a guest to a friend in a matter of days.” During the remainder of their three weeks in Salem, the exchange students will be helping in classrooms at Salem Academy in accordance
with their expected bachelor’s degree in education. This program fulfills the requirements of their student practicums, not only refining their teaching skills, but also adding experience in another culture. In addition to time in the classroom, the students will explore the territory via local attractions. Portland, Seattle, Woodburn Outlets and the coast are just a few of the sights on the itinerary. The connections Corban has around the world are a valuable part of how students and faculty fulfill their mission statement, “making a difference in the world for Jesus Christ.” The group of Corban students going to South Korea this June will be teaching English in AWANA programs for two weeks. The experience will offer valuable Photo courtesy of Natasha Wilson insight into a new perspective and will Experiencing Portland and the freeway leading back to Salem, sustain fruitful relationships around the these 10 South Korean students seem to be enjoying their globe. visit.
Eight compete; Goodwin wins ‘Mr. VG,’; claims it’s his ‘razzle dazzle’ By Makenna Dillon
Meal and a Carolina Reefer. John Hagala showed off his skills by pretending the floor was lava. He walked down a table on his hands, crawled under chairs without touching the ground and Held in the Prewitt-Van Guilder dorm, the annual Mr. VG jumped from ledge to ledge like Spiderman. Luke Walker perevent brought in about 200 spectators. Kasey Sperling and formed the classic “dance like a white boy,” involving the worm Alex Ardavanis emceed the event, describing how contestants and twisting in style. Dyson Scott donned a horse mask, chugfrom each male hall were chosen to ging milk through the mask that compete in a “man pageant.” Every flowed down his front and back and competition ultimately led to the anfilling the inflatable pool he stood in. nouncement of 2019’s Mr. VG, Grant Donnell got into an argument with Goodwin. “My strategy,” Goodwin his conscience, who simply wanted said, “was to have fun, be prepared to impress the audience with counand to really show forth my signature try and rap songs. Jeremy Drake razzle dazzle.” sang a series of musical impersonThe first event began humorously: ations, even changing between a the eight contestants were paired off flowery dress and the classic white and given a single prop for an improv glove. Nick Alexander sang the “Bosession. With a minute to perform hemian Rhapsody” in various imperthe designated scenario, tension and sonations, from Obama to Ken Zhu. laughter ran high. The audience called The back lawn hosted the final event out the settings, ranging from Dr. of the day, where two of the men Nord’s bathroom to Best Buy. were paired against each other for Next, the contestants ran through “Steal the Bacon.” Both contestants a game of the infamous Spell-Or-Die. raced across a soapy tarp to bring All were given a word to spell. Those the raw pig hoof back to their own who spelled the word incorrectly had starting point. Things got messy as to battle for their place in a minithey slid and rolled on the ground, game. Once down to the last battle, trying to gain the advantage. James Donnell won the twisted spellThe day ended with the judges ing bee with a lucky spin on the Spellcalling every contestant back onto Or-Die wheel. the stage. The final four were anEach contestant was reinstated to nounced: “Nick Alexander, Grant perform his talent. Goodwin created Goodwin, Timothy Ford and Luke a musical medley and jammed away Walker.” on the piano. “Timiny Critic,” aka PVG residents spent all Saturday Timothy Ford, ate a variety of unusuPhoto by Michaela Sanderson helping their designated contesal foods: cat food, a blended Happy Grant Goodwin, winner of the 2019 Mr. VG, “blesses” the tants create incredible costumes. Freelance Writer
When Sunday rolled around, the crowd was more excited than ever. The first event began with an “under the sea” prom makeover. The four remaining contestants took five minutes to give their “girl” a makeover, and, after each described the interesting scene they had created, Goodwin was announced the winner. Alex Gowan, the Area Coordinator of PVG, stepped in for the counseling session, where the female RA’s pretended to be angry for some offense. The men had no idea what the problem was, and this event easily brought the most laughs from the audience. This was Goodwin’s favorite. “One of my love languages is to be roasted,” he said, “so being roasted by three strong, empowered women was my everything.” Walker, on the other hand, enjoyed the “pick-up lines.” A conglomeration of flirting, groveling and sticking feet in their mouths meant that every contestant left feeling a little worse for wear. Everyone moved outside yet again for “Save the Princess,” an obstacle course at the end of which was one of the expelled contestants in a dress. The final four had to avoid water balloons, wrestle two “ogres” and bring their princess back, while the judges graded the style, strategy and time. Finally, the last competition was a costume contest. Enormous costumes constructed entirely of cardboard and duct tape housed the contestants for a brief presentation. Walker came out as Jar Jar Binks, complete with a red lightsaber. Goodwin modeled the pope’s robe, complete with a 15-foot train. Ford walked out as Goku from Dragon Ball Z and even took off his outerwear for another outfit underneath. Alexander walked out as Thanos and nearly took out half of PVG with a snap of his fingers. Walker commented after the competition, “Grant Goodwin should be the next pope!” With two days of events completed, the time had finally come for the judges to announce the winner. First, the pink plunger was awarded to second place Alexander. After a thunderous drumroll, the emcees yelled “Grant Goodwin!” and the crowd went wild. Ardavanis handed Goodwin the golden hammer, thus concluding the 15th annual Mr. VG competition.
audience.
New semester sees growth in group counseling; ‘anxiety, stress relate to all’ By David Miller Hilltop Staff
After years of offering group counseling for Corban students, the Counseling Center is finally getting a significant number of participants for weekly group counseling. “Individual counseling can help you make important decisions, gain insight into your personal strengths and weaknesses, and learn to cope more effectively with the demands and difficulties of University life,” according to the Corban Counseling Service’s web page. For many, individual counseling is the preferred format for processing difficult issues. For whatever reason, students in the past have not shown interest in group counseling, and it has proven much less popular than individual counseling. However, movements such as “#metoo” caused an increase, and, with the center’s push for it, group counseling is increasing. “A number of factors have gone into the increase in participation in group counseling,” said Lori Schelske, director of the Corban Counseling Center. She explained that anxiety and stress relate to everyone, and open groups mean people can come whenever it works for them.
Whether group or individual counseling, all students may benefit from access to the free services that Corban provides. “It’s a really helpful experience for anyone,” said Jessica Abbott, who recently wrapped up her time using the service. “It can help you work through a lot of things that can really
HOW TO USE THE COUNSELING CENTER The general policies of the Corban University Career and Counseling Center are: 1.The center is not a crisis center. If the student is in crisis, they need to contact their Resident Assistant or Area Coordinator and/or contact 911 or the Psychiatric Crisis Center. 2.Students contact the Career and Counseling Center to make an appointment. 3.Students are seen on a first-come, first-serve basis. 4.When an inquiry is received for an appointment, the student is contacted by the administrative assistant for additional information. 5.Either an appointment will be made or the student will be placed on the waiting list.
hurt you in the long term if left unattended. It really helped me put words to my feelings and gave me a place to start working toward better mental health.” Many people simply need an outsider’s perspective on the difficult realities of living in the modern world. Not everybody has a lifechanging experience with the counseling center; sometimes people just need someone to help them through a particularly rough patch for a few weeks. “I only went for a couple sessions, but I’m glad I did it,” Reilly Pekkola said. “I think everyone could benefit from counseling at some point. It can be a really healthy way to process emotion and work through things, so they don’t fester and become a much bigger problem later.” The counseling center does its best to make sure they meet with as many students as possible, but spots are in high demand. “We get emails setting up counseling sessions for spring semester starting as soon as finals are finished,” Schelske said. For more information about counseling opportunities at Corban, email counseling@corban.edu or find them at www.corban. edu/student-life/counseling-services/.
February 5, 2019| The Hilltop
News | 5
New name, structure to increase efficiency, trust... By Natasha Wilson Freelance Writer
In an effort to increase efficiency, trust, and responsiveness to the student body, the Associated Student Body (ASB) has formally changed its name and structure. As of spring semester 2019, the group is called the Student Government Association (SGA). The conversation leading to the change began last fall, when former ASB cabinet members recognized that the former structure prevented them from effectively representing and advocating for Corban students. The change has been a long time coming, according to Aric Wood, the current executive vice president. “This restructure has been in the idea phase for three years,” Wood said. “We have known for a while there’s something not quite operable about the way ASB conducts business.” In the new structure, the first-place nominee will become the president and the second-place nominee the vice president. The president will propose cabinet members and the senate will confirm them. Critics called the former process too slow and unwieldy and said it delegated little power to the student-elected senate. In the new structure, “The senate will have more financial power and control of the hiring for the president’s nominations,” Wood said. The senate will now confirm the SGA cabinet positions and approve or deny financial requests. According to Wood, this change is meant to give student representatives from each
dorm more responsibility, along with a greater voice in decisions. Cabinet members should then be able to administer those decisions more efficiently. “The senate is going to have a system called mandates, which are basically laws,” Wood continued. “They will be able to dictate how SGA does its business. They will set the goals of SGA.” In addition, senate elections will occur at the end of every semester, both to foster student involvement and to encourage senators to “steward” their roles, Wood said. Jake Devries, vice president of Community Engagement, said the new system will encourage “more student involvement and more democracy,” and will allow change “more quickly than if you have to wait a whole year.” Some changes have been included to balance the senate’s legislative power with the cabinet’s executive power. These checks and balances will function much as does the U.S. federal government. Further changes were sparked by shifts of responsibility in departments sponsored in part by the former ASB. Eugene Song, vice president of Student Ministries, said, “Chapel responsibilities will be moved over to Student Life,” which led to the creation of a student chaplain position. A unanimous vote of the senators must confirm the person holding the position. Song said he hopes the person in the position will be “able to communicate what the spiritual life of the students is,” and, in addition, “more directly and more accurately rep-
resent where the worship is coming from.” In addition, SGA hopes to encourage and help facilitate “a team of students who are organizing chapels, just not connected to SGA,” Morgan Schmidt, SGA president, said. “But we’ll be encouraging the student chaplain to have a seat at the table and still have that representation there.” Community Engagement, which for the last few years has overseen spring break mission trips, service and commuters, will also see some changes. Lea Huizenga, vice president of Finance, said, “Unfortunately, we do not have a lot of the details yet regarding which responsibilities will be moving or who will be taking care of them in the future. Here’s what we do know: some of the responsibilities that have been traditionally handled by the Community Engagement branch will be moving over to student workers hired by Student Life.” Devries explained the changes were made in light of SGA’s restructure. “I believe we created a system that works best under the new circumstances and gives more representation to the students,” he said. While he said these changes will help shape SGA’s new vision for the future, above all, Devries said, “SGA will just keep on doing what we always try to do, represent the student voice and cater to student needs.” To read more about the changes to SGA, go to https://hilltop.corban.edu/
Hilltop Harmony, smallest group, takes fourth at competition By Allison Herrin Guest Writer
percussion!” wrote one judge. “The tone in this one is the best of your songs,” said another. Hilltop Harmony said it saw the competition as a chance to represent Corban to the community through its performance, set list and interactions with other groups. “We are showing that, yes, we are a school with heart and mind dedicated to God,” Desmond said, “but that doesn’t mean that we are secluded from, or don’t know what’s going on in, the world and culture outside of Hillsong and hymns. We were able to show that we are doing what we do for God.” Desmond, a graduating senior and Hilltop Harmony member for four years, said he felt especially touched by the group’s performance and awards. “As a senior, this is the ultimate send-off,” he said. “It was incredible. We had the best set, and the group this year was just incredible: everyone had so much passion and dedication. Every rehearsal, we knew that everyone was going to have a blast and was giving it their all. Getting fourth place really felt like our hard work paid off.”
Despite multiple setbacks and being the smallest group in the competition, Corban’s Hilltop Harmony took fourth place and an Outstanding Composition award at the International Collegiate Competition for A Capella (ICCA) last Saturday. Competing for a third straight year, Hilltop Harmony’s 10 members performed at the Elsinore in Varsity Vocals ICCA Quarterfinals—the largest collegiate a capella competition in the world. Group members included Steven Sullivan, Sydney Jackson, Audrey Creager, Rachel Ross, Madeline Grassi, Alexis Cable, Jeremy Drake, Evan Merklin, Michael Anderson and Devin Desmond. “We were the smallest group there,” said Devin Desmond, Hilltop President. “Everyone was doing their own part.” Although a smaller group has fewer voices to cover each vocal part, the performance has less room for error. The Hilltop Harmony members saw this as an advantage. “There are certain things you can do with a smaller group, both visually and vocally, that you just can’t do with a larger group,” Desmond said. With this in mind, the singers chose to focus on making their set list enjoyable for them and for the audience, performing arrangements of Soft Cell’s “Tainted Love,” Green Day’s “21 Guns” and a mashup called “The Middle.” “Our goal was to do our best and give the audience a great show without the pressure of trying to win,” Merklin said. “Without that pressure, it made performing feel more natural and fun.” The five judges acknowledged both this effort and the comparatively small size of the group. “For a smaller group, I didn’t feel the lack of anything,” one judge wrote on the anonymous note sheet. “You’ve been very smart with arrangements. Thank you! Loved it.” The judges took particular notice of Desmond’s mash-up of Jimmy Eat World and Zed’s hits, both titled “The Middle,” and awarded it the outstandPhoto courtesy of Devin Desmond ing composition of the night. Each Hilltop Harmony members Michael Anderson, Audrey Creager and Devin Desmond perform one of their numbers at the recent International Collegiate Competition for A Capella (ICCA). judge had a lot to say. “Clever arrangement idea and stellar
News briefs Bill proposed to allow third trimester abortions Louisiana governor Ralph Northam has shown his support for a bill that would allow third trimester abortions. The bill accounts for abortions up to when the mother dilates, and, given that the birth would harm the mental or physical health of the mother, her physician could perform an abortion with the mother’s consent. Northam gave the example: “The infant would be delivered. The infant would be kept comfortable. The infant would be resuscitated if that’s what the mother and the family desired.”
Govt. shutdown finally ends The federal government shutdown that lasted 35 days finally ended. President Trump signed the final documents that would fund the government from Jan. 25 to Feb. 15. The shutdown that left more than 420,000 government employees out of work began when Trump did not receive the desired amount of money for border security. This became the longest government shutdown in U.S. history.
Sexual assault case under investigation Louisiana Lt. Governor Justin Fairfax is currently under investigation for allegations of sexual assault. Fairfax denies the accusations, but has admitted that he did have consensual relations with his accuser. The accusations, Fairfax claims, are a smear campaign made against him at an inopportune time. Fairfax is next in line for governor, should Louisiana Ralph Northam step down due to a recent controversy.
Area homeless forced to leave areas Conditions for the homeless in Salem continue to worsen. Recently, the bridge under Marion Street was cleaned out due to excess trash, pests, feces, and an increase in violence. About 50 people were living under the bridge until the Oregon Department of Transportation cleaned it out. The Salem community is being asked not to hand out meals to the homeless in this area in order to move people to nearby missions or other living accomodations. Latest drops in temperature across the entire Pacific Northwest are posing a serious danger to the homeless population.
British P.M. continues to support Brexit British Prime Minister Theresa May survived the vote of “no confidence,” but she continues with her support of Brexit. The United Kingdom is currently negotiating its departure from the European union, but will leave regardless of whether an agreement is reached on March 29. May is scrambling to create a second withdrawal agreement to be approved by Parliament before that date. Although the U.K. will still necessarily follow some E.U. laws, the U.K. will have newfound freedom regarding their borders, not to mention economic and political advantages.
6| We should all get involved in clubs and endeavors because being a part of a club is a carefree way to do things with friends and people who have similar interests. You can enjoy activities, cultivate hobbies, serve others and hang out with friends. If you have a hobby you already do with friends and don’t see it listed, create a club!
-Taren Ikea-Mario, VP of Student Initiatives
From clubs and leadership to even
To see a full list of the clubs offered, go to initiatives.corban.edu.
ways to be involved on this campu
don’t limit yours
C L U B S
WestTrek President: Moriah Harris
The character and workmanship of God are displayed daily. One of the many forms through which we witness this glory is in creation. The purpose of WESTREK is to enjoy the handiwork of our God. As a club, we hope everyone who comes can stand in awe with us, as we enjoy the scenery and the company of peers. WESTREK is a club that encourages students to leave campus for a day and encounter some beautiful views, ranging from the tops of mountains to the base of waterfalls. Please join us as we explore the beauty of Oregon!
Stinky Bagels President: Rachel Thorn
Stinky Bagels is the longest-running poetry club in the Willamette Valley. In our time at Corban, we’ve provided a home for students to share their poetry and grow in their craft in a safe place. Whether you’ve been writing poetry for years or are looking to pick up a pen for the first time, Stinky Bagels is the community for you!
True North
Get Invo “And let us consider how
President: Kaylee Schaffer
not neglecting to meet
True North focuses mostly on missions, since we were known to help out with W.O.W. and our annual Breakaway Retreat. This year we wanted to focus on expanding the circle of conversation when we spread the gospel. Last semester we introduced this series of “Expanding the Circle,” and we started by asking people to share their fears/concerns when it comes to missions. We received many responses, especially from Club Rush, and we were able to discuss those concerns and work at understanding each other’s concerns. Throughout our series, our mission is to help people build their confidence and help ease concerns by having them listen to each other and to guest missionaries, so they know that what they feel is normal, but that it doesn’t have to hold them back.
Ministries Salt President: Joseph Elkins
SALT gospel network exists for students to be connected, equipped and encouraged to serve and share the gospel. We have recently transitioned out of being an SGA club to just being a network of like-minded students who can serve Christ together. To get involved, email josephelkins@corban.edu!
Stories of His Glory President: Stephen Anderson
Stories of His Glory is a testimony sharing and equipping ministry entering into its fourth year as an organization. Stories of His Glory exists to glorify God and proclaim His glory through personal testimonies, praising God, encouraging other believers, reaching the world and equipping believers to share. Being on the Stories of His Glory leadership team is a great way to be able to make a difference on campus and use the abilities and experiences God has given you to serve Him and minister to the people on this campus. Members of our leadership team not only get to be a part of what God is doing on campus through this ministry, but also get to be encouraged by hearing many stories of people on campus and getting to talk with people on campus who through whom God’s glory has been shown. As this ministry continues to grow and develop, this is also a great way to develop skills on campus as God prepares you here. If you are interested in being a part of the team, but are not sure what that would look like, please just let us know. You can email Stories of His Glory at storiesofhisglory@corban.edu.
but e
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Hilltop
nts and beyond, there are so many
Ellen Kersey
us. Here are a couple options, but
Co-Advisor for Hilltop News
self to just these!
Want to learn skills that will help you throughout your college life, your job life and your future life? The Hilltop is the place for you. Learn how to write: news, features, opinions, etc. Learn InDesign, the program that will allow you to create all kinds of projects with expertise. Work with amazing people who will encourage and help you. Enjoy the product of your work: the Hilltop print paper, the Hilltop Online and the Yearbook.
t olved!
Chapel Eugene Song, Katie Bozone, and Madelyn Potloff VP of Student Ministries and Worship Coordinators Chapel is a great opportunity for students to take time out of their busy schedules and come together to worship God and help create unity in the student body. Chapel allows students to use the skills God has given them to lead their peers in worship. Those who want to get involved in chapel can contact the ministries branch at katiebozone@ corban.edu, madelynpotloff@corban.edu or eugenesong@corban.edu. We would love to work with you!
to stir up one another to love and good works, together, as some are in the habit of doing,
encouraging one another.� Hebrews 10:24-25
Student Leadership RA Dayl Bacher RA for Balyo/Davidson
Being an RA has, hands down, been my favorite experience in college. When people ask me about my job, I tell them that I get paid to hang out with people I already want to spend time with. I love having the opportunity to create community in the dorms by leading Bible studies, planning community gatherings and being present. Being an RA has made me more compassionate and in tune with the needs of others.
SGA Jake DeVries VP of Community Engagement
The goal of SGA, the student government, is to both represent the students’ voices to the Corban administration and serve the needs of the students. We function very much like a government, hence the name, especially with the restructure that was put in place this year. SGA allows for direct representation from all the dorms, so everyone has a voice in the decisions SGA is making. I have loved being able to serve on the SGA cabinet this past year and use my passion to represent the Corban community. It has shown me the power of the students when they use their voices to declare what they want. If you are interested in serving on SGA next year, keep an eye out for both coordinator and senate applications in the near future!
SAB Amity Duke Student Activities Board Member
The Student Activities Board, SAB, is a team of students whose mission is to provide the rest of the student body with opportunities to come together as a community, make memories that will last, acknowledge the presence of God and, of course, HAVE FUN! We fulfill this mission by planning and orchestrating various events throughout the year, such as the Talent Show, Harvestifall, Humans Vs. Zombies, Spring Formal - and the list goes on. We are always on deck to lend a helping hand at dorm events, like the Lumberjack Games and events headed by SGA, Admissions, and Major Events like Homecoming, Corban Experience, Warrior Welcome and others. We are constantly doing our best to steward our resources, time and creativity to put on the best and most enjoyable events we can. A common misconception is that to be on SAB you need to be creative or loud and outgoing. While we do need people like that on our team, we also deal with a lot of budgeting, interpersonal communication and meticulous planning. For this reason, it’s equally important that we have detail-oriented and business-minded members on our team. If you like planning events, working with an awesome group of people, and seeing your hard work pay off through the smiles of your peers, SAB is the team for you!
8 | Feature
February 5, 2019 | The Hilltop
Jeremiah Price directs Corban’s ‘Suite Surrender’ By Trevor Bond Hilltop Staff
Jeremiah Price, who goes by JP, is taking on the adjunct theatre director position for the spring play “Suite Surrender.” Price is currently a senior elementary education major at Western Oregon University. Tamara McGinnis, director of Theatre Arts, watched Price direct a production of “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” in Monmouth this past summer; she was so impressed that she approached him and asked if he would be interested in directing the spring play at Corban. Even though Price is a full-time student, working two jobs, he still found the time to commit to making “Suite Surrender” an experience people won’t forget. Price is not only directing the play, but he “is providing an educational experience that comes with being in the play. Memorizing and performing is only one aspect of acting, but I am also providing an educational experience on acting theory as well,” he said. He has been directing theatre for five years and enjoys the act of entertainment and all the positive experiences that theatre brings. There is something special about Corban’s community, and Price has seen this clearly. “The best part of the job is being a part of the community,” he said. “Everyone I meet has been very friendly. I love it.” Even though Price has been directing at Corban for only a month, he already claims to feel welcome and loved. He has spent a lot of time directing children’s theatre and working in community theatre, and he
said he is enjoying working alongside and teaching adults. “Teaching adults allows me to dig deeper into theatrical concepts I couldn’t guide children through,” he said. Price believes theatre teaches people more about themselves when they see the human folly of fictitious characters, and, when they learn about themselves, they in Photo courtesy of Jeremiah Price turn learn more about the Lord and the lessons He has. “Suite Surrender” is a fun, lighthearted play. “I hope it is a celebration of laughter and humor; one of the Lord’s greatest gifts,” Price said. He encourages all Corban students to see the spring play, as it will be a homage to the 30’s and 40’s, a time not often represented in the world of theatre. “Suite Surrender” is an opportunity to be entertained by a silly plot and sillier characters.
MLK Day: a time of service as the body of Christ By Trevor Bond Hilltop Staff
MLK Day may be a national holiday, but it’s a “day of service” for Corban students, who go out into the community in various ways. Shannon McHugh, SGA’s Outreach Coordinator, was in charge of planning the day. “Not everyone at Corban is raised to participate in a service project,” she said, “so it was really awe-inspiring to see them fall in love with serving and thrive.” Arranging a day of service the size of MLK Day is no small feat. Not only was this a day for Corban students, but a group of public school middle schoolers from Judson Middle School partnered with one of the service teams as well, working at a park in Salem. “One of the middle school students prayed before leaving for the
Photo courtesy of Joshua Gillis Corban students serve with others at West Salem Park.
site,” McHugh said. The teacher leading the middle schoolers was a recent Corban graduate, and she was blessed to see her students serve and pray, because that was something she couldn’t ask of them in the day-to-day classroom setting. In addition to participating, several students led Not everyone at Corban is teams to different locations. “I love raised to participate in a serving on MLK service project, so it was Day because it gives me the opportunireally awe-inspiring to ty to meet people I see them fall in love with normally wouldn’t cross paths with,” serving and thrive. said Kristen Collins, who led a site at Connections 365 therapy garden. Collins believes serving definitely doesn’t have to be a chore, but, rather, it should be celebrated. “It’s much more fun to get to know people when you’re knee deep in mud and rotten apples,” she said. “It can be frustrating because some Corban students view MLK Day as a one and done type of service project, but it doesn’t have to be that way,” McHugh said. MLK serve day is often seen as a chance to scratch that itch to serve, but service goes far beyond one day. “We not only serve in memory of great historical figures such as Martin Luther King Jr., but we serve because that is what Jesus has called us to do. Serving should not be a box that we check off, but it should become a part of our lives and our being as Christians,” Collins said.
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Roleplaying games foster community across campus By David Miller
the townhouses. “I can do whatever I want and really explore playing a character who is totally not like me,” he added. For others, the appeal of D&D is in the cooperative nature of the When Dungeons and Dragons was initially released in 1974, it was game. Because D&D is a cooperative game, it requires teamwork to met with a wave of outrage from the Christian community. Commonly progress in the game. referred to as D&D, the game revolves around the concept of one player “It’s how I’ve met some of my closest friends,” said Angela Donathan, acting as a rulekeeper, known as a game maswho plays in a separate game made up mostly ter or GM, and the rest of the players playing of people from Farrar and Aagard. “Sometimes as adventurers. The adventurers are free to do you can actually get more authentic with someMany churches denounced whatever they want, and it’s up to the GM to one by pretending to be somebody else first. interpret their actions into a compelling story. Because then you’ve already spent a bunch of the game and declared In the 70’s, 80’s and even today, some Christime working together with this person, and it to be a danger to tian parents were scared that their children you’re more comfortable.” going on adventures and defeating evil in a Others still are attracted to the acting aspect young people’s spiritual fictional world were somehow connected to culof D&D. The act of taking on a role and pordevelopment, which tish behavior. traying a fully formed character with complex Many churches denounced the game and deemotions and characteristics is a task many makes it ironic that D&D clared it to be a danger to young people’s spirfind exhilarating. is becoming so popular on itual development, which makes it ironic that “I didn’t actually expect to like the acting D&D is becoming so popular on Corban’s campart of the game when I started,” said Seth HigCorban’s campus. pus. by, who plays in the Dens and Leviathans camFor some, D&D is a way for people to do paign, a game of D&D run as a club through things they would never be able to do in the real world. This is true not Corban. “But after a while, I started to love the part of the game that only of the ability to wield giant weapons and cast spells, but also of involved pretending to be a character and having to embody this whole more nuanced things as well. In D&D, anyone can be a master carpen- other person.” ter or a smooth-talking con artist. For more information on D&D on Corban’s campus, ask around and “It’s really just playing pretend with some rules for consistency,” see if anyone has a campaign with an open spot, or go to the Dens and said Marcus Devight, who plays in a superhero-themed campaign in Leviathan’s Facebook page and reach out. Hilltop Staff
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Real Talk with Rachel
By Rachel Stadeli Hilltop Columnist
I’m known for making weird comparisons. One time, I actually managed to compare the timeline of the people of Israel to the process of making sugar cookies. And I think I may have been successful. Hopefully, this goes just as well, because here’s another weird comparison for y’all: Taking insulin and self-care. You might think that’s a bit obvious, but just hold on. It gets more complex. I take insulin shots every day – once in the morning and once every time I eat. It quite literally keeps me alive. Even though I’ve been diabetic for three years, I’m only now noticing this particular difference: from the time I get up in the morning until the time I take my “drugs,” I feel pretty crappy. I begin to question my identity as a morning person. Then, as soon as I inject that liquid life into my veins… Poof. Play Skillet in the background, my friends, because I’m awake and I’m alive. You may not be a type-one diabetic who needs insulin just to make it to tomorrow. But there is something we all need in order to make it to tomorrow – maybe not physically, but at least mentally. And that’s rest. I know this is something Corban’s been trying to implement with Sabbath Chapel. And I know I’m just as guilty as everyone else of using said Sabbath Chapels to get caught up on all the homework I would not be doing if I were at said Sabbath Chapel. But it’s still an important concept. Rest is key. God made our bodies, for whatever reason, to specifically need rest. Yet, as college students, this is the spiritual discipline we neglect more than anything else – besides maybe tithing. And it saps our lives. There is nothing more heartbreaking to me than seeing people about to have a nervous breakdown because they have taken on too much, without any time to rest. I don’t speak of this from a hypocritical standpoint, just so you know. Last semester I took on my first – and last – 18 -credit class load. But, you know what? I tried to be very intentional about taking times to rest. If I hadn’t, I wouldn’t have just limped into break; I would have been dragging myself along in a pathetic imitation of an army crawl. I’m not trying to preach at my readers. It is a proven fact that rest helps us with homework and performance in every other area of our lives. What’s your form of rest? What do you do that automatically makes you feel more refreshed? It could be sleep, getting out into nature or reading. It could be standing on your head or doing flips down the hall. Whatever it is, I hope you’ll make time to do it at least once a week this semester. The homework will be there when you get back. And you’ll be far more equipped to do it well if you’ve taken some time to just chill. Above all, make sure to spend some time with God because insulin may be what kept my body alive last semester, but He was what kept my soul alive. He’ll do the same thing for you. I promise.
February 5, 2019 | The Hilltop
Entertainment| 9
‘Suite Surrender’ to bring ingenuity to the stage By Nathanael Schellenberg
Freelance Writer The spring play, “Suite Surrender,” will be led by guest director Jeremiah Price, who has been involved in theater since a young age and has worked with AIM (Arts Integrated Ministry) here in Salem. English and drama professor Tamara McGinnis will be assisting, along with alumni Megan Douglas, Nathan Messmer and Luke Douglas. “Suite Surrender” is a door-slamming farce, an homage to the 30’s and 40’s. It is 1941. Two antagTICKET PRICES: onistic performance divas (Athena and Claudia) end $11 for students, staff, and seniors up in the same hotel suite, forcing the hotel manager $13 for adults and his staff to keep them apart at all costs. Faces will $8 for children hit doors, people will be drenched and pillows will be Purchase at the door or online at swung. inside.corban.edu/theatre/events. Why should you see “Suite Surrender”? First and foremost, to have a good time and a good laugh. This SHOW TIMES: play is meant to entertain, so don’t come expecting Thursday, March 7, at 10:30 a.m. logic; you won’t get it (according to McGinnis). Friday, March 8, at 7:30 p.m. “The Lord gives us the gift of humor,” Price said. Saturday, March 9, at 7:30 p.m. “We live in a time where divisiveness monopolizes Friday, March 15, at 7:30 p.m. our thinking. So, getting to relax and watch a humorSaturday, March 16, at 7:30 p.m. ous farce, to enjoy a comedic experience, will be treSunday, March 17, at 2:30 p.m. mendously beneficial.” McGinnis agreed. “We have far too much in our world that encourages fear, seriousness and negativ-
r ille
M d i Dav
ity,” she said. “We need levity.” It’s also worth noting that Corban’s theater program doesn’t put out a farce every year, or even every other year, so an opportunity like this won’t come again any time soon. Heather Bellinger plays stubborn reporter Dora Del Rio. “This play looks at the lives of many people over a single day,” she said, “and it examines what happens to them Photo courtesy of Madelyn Hawken when they reach their breaking The cast of “Suite Surrender” gathers for a picture during practice. point, farcically, of course.” She said about the chaotic events in the play, “Even when things go completely wrong, there’s a sort of release that comes from dealing with hard things.” McGinnis recommends attending the play for the sake of fellow students as well. “It’s a way to express brotherly love,” she said. “Your fellow students have spent many hours practicing for this, so come and support them.” “A farce isn’t done every day,” Price said. “It has a unique style that requires a tremendous amount of education in the techniques of physical comedy and comedic timing.” The final reason to see “Suite Surrender”? “We all need a little art in our lives,” McGinnis said, adding that “we need art for balance, for inspiration, for expanding our worldview, for seeing more of God and our own position in this world. We need to see creativity, beauty, and ingenuity.”
Valentines Observations from
In a relationship, you wake up early to go make breakfast for your significant other. You quickly realize that you don’t know how to make any breakfast more complicated than Pop Tarts, so, even though you were hoping to make an omelet and bacon spread, you instead deliver a mushy egg pile and bacon that is simultaneously overcooked and undercooked.
In a relationship, you unveil your present. While shopping, you find out that oversized teddy bears are wildly expensive, and, because you’re a college student, you decide to go with a box of variety chocolates and a copy of “Paul Blart Mall Cop 2” on HD DVD instead. They are underwhelmed.
In a relationship, on the night of Valentine’s Day, you decide to stick to the classics and take your significant other to a movie. You pay roughly $45,000 for two tickets. There’s nothing you really want to see, so you settle on something dumb, starring Bradley Cooper. You go bankrupt buying a medium popcorn and a Coke.
In a relationship, at the end of the day, you get to be in love! And when you look into that person’s eyes, it makes all the getting up early, failing at simple meals, buying gifts you can’t afford and having to endure the acting of Bradley Cooper worth it.
Trevo r Bo
nd
When you’re single, you get to wake up whenever you please and reach for what’s left of last night’s popcorn for breakfast. You quickly realize that popcorn ages poorly, and you’re disappointed with your life choices yet again.
When you’re single, you don’t have to worry about buying anything for anybody. Instead, you go to the store and spend that hard earned mula on yourself and only yourself. You buy “Paul Blart Mall Cop 2” on Blu-Ray, and you’re simply whelmed, because you love giving you presents.
When you’re single on the night of Valentine’s Day, you get to do whatever you want. Do you want to drive to Dairy Queen and try every Blizzard flavor they have? Fine, no one can tell you no. Perhaps you want to take a bath, timing yourself on how long you can hold your breath underwater while blaring “So What” by P!nk on repeat. So be it.
When you’re single, Valentine’s Day ends just like every other day. You’ll probably go home and scroll through all of the social media posts about those in love, feeling bad about yourself. It’s true: those in a relationship have an intimacy worthy of admiration, but I bet they can’t hold their breath underwater for longer than two minutes.
10 | Sports
The Hilltop | February 5, 2019
Warriors basketball preps for Cascade Conference
UPCOMING ATHLETIC EVENTS February 8 Women’s Basketball vs. Southern Oregon Univ. 5:30 p.m. - C.E. Jeffers Sports Center Men’s Basketball vs. Southern Oregon Univ. 7:30 p.m. - C.E. Jeffers Sports Center
Photo courtesy of Corban Athletics Members of the men’s basketball team (and a young visitor) celebrate after beating No. 2-ranked College of Idaho in overtime at the buzzer, 85-83.
By Connor Morton Freelance Writer
As the Cascade Collegiate Conference basketball tournament approaches, the men’s and women’s basketball teams are prepared for challenging games. Both teams were on the road Feb. 1 and 2, playing Multnomah and Warner Pacific Universities. “These two teams presented a number of challenges,” men’s head coach Mitch Freeman said. “Multnomah is a team that has the capability of hitting a three-pointer from anywhere on the court and putting up a lot of points, and Warner Pacific is a strong/athletic team that is tough to guard.” This weekend, Feb. 8 and 9, the Warriors will take on Southern Oregon University and Oregon Tech. The games “will be against two of the top teams in the conference and will go a long way to determining where we end in the conference,” said Bill Pilgeram, women’s head coach. The women’s team has seven games left to play, the men’s team five. Every game will affect their placing at the start of the CCC tournament. “We have put ourselves in a position to make the tourney, but we still have a lot of work to do,” Freeman said. “Especially this year, our conference has truly shown that any team can win on any given night,” Treasure Farmer, a guard on the women’s team, said. The CCC tournament starts Feb. 19 for the women’s team and Feb.
20 for the men’s team. Both teams have to be in the top eight in conference to make it into the tournament. Currently, the women’s team is third, while the men’s team is seventh. “The atmosphere for every game is intense, as each game is do or die; win or go home,” Michael Seng, a guard on the men’s team, said. “For the CCC tournament, we hope to position ourselves in the top half in order to play at home,” Pilgeram said. “Our home crowd is such an advantage, and we love to play in our home atmosphere.” “It’s all about who shows up and wants it more,” Farmer said, speaking of playing in the tournament. The success of the women’s team is notable in light of the fact that three players, Shaelie Burgess, Shelby Campbell and Shawnie Spink, all suffered season-ending injuries. “The team has really banded together and played stronger with every setback we have faced,” Pilgeram said. “Our goal at the beginning of the year was to finish in the top three of the Cascade Conference,” Farmer said. “As a team, we sat down together before the season even started to set goals and aspirations of what the year was going to look like. I think that’s why we have been so successful.” The men’s team had to deal with its own challenges this season. “Early on, it would almost be an every man for himself mentality,” Seng said. “Over the season though, it has felt as if all the guys play for each other, and it’s a brotherhood, which is all you can ask for from a team. Each player sacrifices something for the greater good of the team, and, overall, those sacrifices add up to something big.”
February 9 & 10 Baseball vs. Menlo College 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Volcanoes Stadium February 16 Women’s Basketball vs. Walla Walla University 6:30 p.m. - C.E. Jeffers Sports Center Men’s Basketball vs. Northwest Christian Univ. 8:30 p.m. - C.E. Jeffers Sports Center February 16 & 17 Baseball vs. Central Washington University 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Volcanoes Stadium
Men’s soccer coach takes on women’s team, too February 25 Softball vs. Simpson University 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Warrior Field
By David Miller Hilltop Staff
Women’s soccer thrives under new leadership style Team dynamics are changing after the hiring of Aaron Lewis as the new coach of the women’s team. Armed with a coaching style built on positivity rather than negativity, Lewis is doing his best to build the team up in new ways. “Soccer feels fun for the first time in a very long time,” said Katie Hiller, midfielder for the team. “It’s more positive and more encouraging. We can make mistakes because we know it leads to improvement and that takes off so much pressure to be perfect.” Lewis’ approach to coaching focuses on building up the individuals on the team as people, as well as players. Practices now involve exercises, such as teammate affirmations, in addition to the usual drills and workouts. Recognizing and correcting mistakes is obviously still valuable, but now it is in tandem with celebrating strengths and victories. “He’s building us up mentally as well as physically,” said Monique Heiniger, goalkeeper. “For the first time, I’m really seeing the difference between coaching and criticizing. His coaching style is very collaborative. I feel like my teammates are really helping me grow as a player. He told us that depth was important to him for this season, and it shows.” Lewis’ emphasis on the team as a cohesive unit is encouraging players to lift each other up for the good of the individual as well as for the team. Time will tell how this new team mentality will play out on the field when preseason games start later this spring.
March 1 Softball vs. Carrol College 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. Warrior Field March 2 Softball vs. Carrol College 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Warrior Field
Photo courtesy of Corban Athletics Megan Harvey fights hard to take control of the game for the Corban Warriors.
March 2 Men and Women’s Track and Field Willamette Opener 10 a.m. - McCulloch Field
February 5, 2019| The Hilltop
Sports | 11
Baseball: Brotherhood batting .1000 By Hannah Brumage Hilltop Staff
Replacing several seniors with more than a dozen freshmen and transfers has reshaped this year’s baseball team. As with every change of cast, the dynamics of the team are different than ever. The season began Jan. 25 with eight away games in Rocklin and Santa Barbara, California. Jake Michalovich, a junior pitcher, said he is “excited” see how the team does with the younger players. “The mindset has changed with a young team,” Michalovich said. “There is more will to win and do whatever it takes. They’re still willing to listen to coaches and make changes to how they play.” “Good team chemistry can mean win-
ning more,” Michalovich said. “It’s about trusting and loving the guy next to you, not just wanting your shot.” Infielder Maxwell Jeffrey agreed. “I appreciate how we’ve all got each other’s backs,” he said. “We all love each other and are more than willing to sacrifice for one another.” While Corban has never won a championship in baseball, Alex Hakes, a freshman pitcher, hopes this year they will win more games than ever. “This season I’m most looking forward to competing with my brothers,” Hakes said, “and hopefully hanging our first ever baseball banner in the gym.” “I like how great our chemistry is,” Hakes said. “My favorite thing to do with the guys off the field is play Super
Smash Bros.” Off the field, Jeffrey also likes playing video games, but of a different sort. “I’m a really a big nickel arcade guy,” Jeffrey said. “My favorite thing is hitting up the nickel arcade with the boys.” When they aren’t playing Super Smash Bros or going to the arcade, they still get together, bonding over team Bible study. “We have team chaplains who come out,” Michalovich said. “We take a break from practice just to have a big Bible study and talk about stuff as brothers in Christ.” So far the team has had no victories. After eight games away, the team’s first home games are coming up Feb. 9 at Volcanoes Stadium in Keizer at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Photo courtesy of Corban Athletics Corban players discuss strategy at William Jessup University.
Golf coach set to retire; athletic director searching for replacement By Isaac Calderon Guest Writer
Tom Graves, head golf coach, will be stepping down after the 2018-19 season, according to Corban University Athletics. Graves was recently engaged and said he looks forward to focusing on his marriage and starting a family in the next couple of years. “The program has definitely grown a lot in roster size, national recognition and our overall travel schedule,” Graves said. “Greg Eide and Paul Pickerell [former head coaches] really paved the way by doing some great recruiting. Our athletic department and the university have been supportive of our missions and goals for the program. We also have had some success in tournament competition. We’ve developed ways to connect the alumni back to the program and have had some great success fundraising these past few years, allowing us to do some extra special things for all of the players.” After joining the golf program in 2011, Graves competed for the Warriors for four years before
becoming the head coach in 2015. He immediately made an impact, helping the women capture their first Cascade Collegiate Conference (CCC) regular-season title, as well as tournament titles during the 2015-16 season. He was named the CCC Women’s Golf Coach of the year in 2016. Graves also led the men to their first CCC season title in 2016-17, and then to a successful title defense the next year. Along with the season titles, the men also garnered six tournament titles. “Coach Graves was more of a friend than a coach,” said team member Marcus Frazier. “Yes, he did help me improve my golf game, but he cared more about our well-being. He always made sure we had good grades and would always ask how we were doing.” Corban Athletic Director Twiggs Reed is leading the search for a new men’s golf coach. Reed has asked that one player help him with the process. “I hope the program can continue to move forward,” Graves said. “The university really needs to give someone a full-time opportunity in order to see the program soar even more. That is what the players deserve! I plan to still be around to help out and ensure that the program is well taken care of, many years after I am gone.”
QA &
BASEBALL RICHI SEDE
With student athletes 1. Where are you originally from?
1. I am from the Dominican Republic.
ANNOUSCKA KORDOM 1. I am from Windhoek, Namibia.
2. In my home country, I started playing baseball when I was 5 years old, and I started playing baseball here [in the U.S.] in January this year.
2. When did you start playing your sport, both originally and in the U.S.?
3. Here it is more organized. Everything is set up for practice. We also set stuff up in the D.R. [Dominican Republic], but we wasted time. Here, we don’t waste time because of the daylight.
3. What is the biggest difference between sports in your home country and sports here?
4. You need to have the knowledge of the language. You need the mindset that things will not go as you want them to. Things can change, and it is very stressful. Have confidence in yourself, and don’t be afraid to ask questions of the people around you.
4. What advice would you give to an athlete in another country seeking to play in the U.S?
5. My goal in baseball is to get to the pros. The team I would like to play for is the Boston Red Sox. I like this team because many Dominicans were a part of their championships, like Pedro Martinez, Manny Ramirez and, the best of them, David Ortiz.
SOCCER 2. I started playing when I was 6 years old and started playing in the U.S. in the fall of 2016. 3. The style of play and intensity of the game.
5. What do you hope to achieve in your sport, or is there a certain team you hope to play for in the future? Photos courtesy of Corban Athletics and Richi Sede
4. Because the game in America is different to what you might be used to, you should expect growth. This can come in the form of style of play; it could be tactical/technical, your physique or many other areas. One of the biggest things they (Americans) focus on, which I appreciate, is the basics. They spend a lot of time in the off-season to work on strengthening the foundation, which could be your physique, technical skills, tactical awareness, sports intelligence and so forth. 5. My goal has always been to play professional soccer. I am a huge fan of Manchester United, and the dream of representing them was made possible by their starting a women’s team. Playing somewhere in the U.S. would be awesome, too.
12 | February 5, 2019
The Hilltop
H U M A N S of C O R B A N NOELANI ELEY
“My dad had been an elder of a non-profit ministry that helped and encouraged so many people, but when he came home, he would shift into a completely different person. My dad was abusive. He had a lot of pent up hurt from his childhood that caused him to lash out at my mom and me, but nobody would recognize it, because everyone loved him. In 2009 we moved to Salem, and I remember my mom and I leaving the house whenever my dad was around. He would constantly go through this cycle of saying ‘sorry,’ but then spiraling back out of control and into another one of his rages. When I was 14, my mom and I went to an abuse recovery center. There we learned about setting boundaries. We had lost all of our sense of worth and identity through the years of mental, emotional and physical abuse, but they encouraged us to focus on our relationship with ourselves. As God was starting to work on healing our hearts, He was simultaneously working on healing my father’s heart. Through reading, counselling and prayer, he realized that having a soft heart doesn’t make you less of a man. He began to read the Bible in a completely new light, and I got to see his heart get a little softer day by day. Now, after three years, my family has grown so much in Christ. The love my parents have for each other now is one I hope to have some day, and now there’s no one I feel safer with than my dad.”
CAMILLE WILLIAMS
“My birth mother was in jail when I was born. She got to hold me for about an hour before the hospital called someone to ask if they would foster me for a few weeks. That person became my mom. I am the third youngest of eight. Six of us are adopted from five families. I’m the only one who isn’t white. It took me a long time, until I was 5 or 6, to understand that I was different. I had to learn the hard way that white people and black people are different. In fourth grade, a boy called me the “N” word. I didn’t know what that meant, so I asked my parents, and they had to explain why some people don’t like black people. It was hard to understand because I thought ‘we’re all the same; we all have arms and legs and skin, but mine’s a different color.’ I think if I could wave a magic wand, I would remove all hate from the world. I feel like there’s so much negativity and people hating people for things they can’t change. If I could take it away, I would. When I was 13 or 14, I was more interested in the evil side of things, not how God conquers them. I went through a period where I had to declare, ‘No, my God is my God, and I won’t let anyone else take that from me.’ I was getting caught up in dark, evil things like demonology. My parents noticed that my attitude and temperament were changing. My dad put his foot down and talked me through what I was doing. We prayed about it, and I chose Jesus over my curiosity.”
CALEB FOREMAN
“My GPA was so bad that I had to write an essay about why I should be accepted despite my bad grades. I sent in my application around Dec. 20 and by Jan. 7 I was accepted, so the entire process took less than two weeks. When I came, I knew nobody, but everybody seemed to know everybody else. A lot of people did go out of their way to introduce themselves to me, but I never knew who I could sit with, so I made myself a sign that said, ‘I like people. You can sit here.’ With the sign, other people would know they could sit by me. The first time I put it out I felt very nervous about how people would respond. The first person to sit with me was a guy named Jacob Holloran, and to this day we still enjoy a lot of theological conversations. Putting up the sign was great for my first semester, but now that I’m not the new guy anymore, it seems like people don’t care. I don’t know if it’s because of the sign or just from being at Corban; but if you had seen me back home, you would have seen a completely different person. Here, I’m a people person. When my parents came to visit the first time, they were shocked at how many people I knew. Though I’ve grown in that regard, I still have a lot of selfdoubt. If someone honks in traffic, I assume it’s my fault. If anything awkward happens, I assume it’s my fault. That’s just how I’ve always been.”