Pursuit | Fall 2015

Volume 6. Issue 1. Fall 2015.

SHUTTER SPEAK Language of cross-cultural photography

'Maximize Your Gratitude.

Minimize Your Envy' 50 years with Dr. Gary Collins

Political Polarization Growing divide between America's major political parties PURSUIT | 1

FEATURES 10 'Maximize Your Gratitude, Minimize Your Envy' 50 years with Dr. Gary Collins

23 We Need to Talk About...

Political Polarization Growing divide between America's major political parties

32 Shutter Speak Language of cross-cultural photography

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Cover photo by Kayla Plouffe

CONTENTS CONTENTS Relationships 6 Dear CBU 8 Victory 15 Clarifying Blind Dating

Lifestyle 18 Technology Terrors 20 More Than Her Title

Arts 28 Unlikely Visitors at Linhurst 30 Summer Music Reviews 38 Pursuit Staff Tries Balloon Animals

Travel 40 Taste of India 42 Destination: Pasadena 45 Finding Fall

Trends 48 Reclaiming the Desert 50 Pen & Prayer 52 Gotta Play ‘Em All PURSUIT | 3

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staff

Lauren Koski Editor-in-Chief

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Kara Lamphere Managing Editor

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Jared Overstreet Photo Editor

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Caleb Bol Design Editor

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Brooke Biddle Relationships Editor

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Courtney Coleman Arts & Trends Editor

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Hannah Burnett Lifestyle & Travel Editor

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Mariss Eanes Assistant Photo Editor

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Krysta Hawkins Assistant Editor

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Raine Paul Graduate Assistant

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Jim Veneman Photojournalism Consultant

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Sonya Singh Writing Coach

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Dr. Michael Chute Adviser

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Contributing Writers: Iona Brannon, Ashley Dinkel, Andria Garcia, Randy Plavajka, Meghan Rowland, Natilee Ruiz, Breeanna Schmidt, Lauren Shelburne, Hannah Tamimi, Bekka Wiedenmeyer Contributing Designers: Allison Cordova, Lauren Koski, Ashley Lopez, Lisa Orona, Jared Overstreet Contributing Photographers: Hannah Burnett, Lauren Koski, Nadia Nawabi, Katie Ring, Lauren Shelburne, Daren Stevens 4 | PURSUIT

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1 In pursuit of

Community

'The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and delivers them.

Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good!

Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!

Oh, fear the LORD, you his saints, for those who fear him have no lack!

The young lions suffer want and hunger; but those who seek the LORD lack no good thing.

Come, O children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the LORD. What man is there who desires life and loves many days, that he may see good?

Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking deceit.

Turn away from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.'

Psalm 34:7-14

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t’s too hot to be sitting here. It is fall, yet my eyes squint up to look into the endless abyss of a cloudless sky. A low murmur from the engines of Cessnas flying overhead mixes with the all-too-familiar sound of skateboards slapping against the cement.

The Church Ministry Fair is in full force and a LeCrae song is lulling passersby.

The ice is melting and diluting my cup of Lift brew from Wanda’s.

In the foreground of study groups outside of the Campus Xpress, a girl wearing a green dress twists the cap on her Naked juice absentmindedly. The boy she is with has the straps of his backpack so loose I am fearful for his books.

A student leader cuts through my vision as he quickly walks to join a friend – cuffed jeans, brown loafers and a journal in hand.

To my left, a muscular guy cradling a gallon jug of Crystal Geyser water is engaged in a political conversation. The girl standing with him smirks and tosses her dark hair while discussing the history

of our nation’s politics – something about drunk presidents, the Whig Party and loyalists. Their friend walks up to join the conversation with his Styrofoam cup crushed on top of the Chick-fil-A bag he is clutching.

I can envision the meal falling out of his hands as he rocks his body to the music playing through his bright blue headphones.

I sit here in the midst of the California Baptist University community. All around me, different colored hands are wrapped around coffee cups; different colored noses are buried in iPhones. Yes, off the top of our minds we can easily say that coffee, iPhones, smiles and sunshine are the defining factors of CBU’s culture, but when we pause, what do we see? Who do we see?

When we are searching for the very last parking spot, when we are too consumed to socialize in the El Monte line, when a student moves seats in your general education class so that you are now sitting next to a stranger – do we, in these moments, open our eyes and look at the different people who create our community? Do we

see the international students, the gamers, the athletes, the lovebirds, maybe even the other political party?

This fall, the Pursuit staff sought to offer a diverse range of stories that reflect the diversity of our campus community.

Fellow students, as we ponder this, as we look around us and see different faces, may we hold each human life as precious as they truly are. To the commuter and the resident, to the freshman and the senior, to those of different cultures and beliefs – you are one of the unique threads woven into this culture.

May we be a community that genuinely cherishes each individual on campus, whose faces shine radiantly with love and who seek peace and pursue it.

In pursuit of him,

Lauren Koski LaurenAnn.Koski@calbaptist.edu

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RELATIONSHIPS 1

DEAR

CBU Written by Breeanna Schmidt

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ach year, students mature during their season at California Baptist University, forging new paths and gaining insight to pass on. Sophomores, juniors, seniors and graduate students shared tips for those following behind them on the path to graduation.

Dear Freshmen, “Delete social media that will be distracting.”

Donovan Knutson (3), sophomore sociology major

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“Try to get along with your classmates, go along with the jokes, go along with the professors even if it seems dumb. It’s going to make your time better than it is sitting around not having a good time.”

Shay Spencer (5), sophomore electrical and computer engineering major

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Dear Juniors, “Use your meal swipes. You don’t want Provider to win. You pay for those., so get those meal swipes in. Bring your mama and dad and say, ‘Come on, swipe it up.’”

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DeAnna Hall (10), senior psychology and leadership studies double major “Sleep.”

Vanessa Avila (8), senior nursing major

Dear Sophomores, “Really connect with your professors. It’s important, especially as a sophomore. That is a great time in college to be proactive in what you are pursuing.”

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Dear Seniors, “Go to the beach more often.”

Bobby Frisch (6), master of business administration student and graduate assistant for Community Life

Stephanie Lipscomb (7), junior sociology major

“Get out of the CBU bubble. Once you graduate there is a culture shock of going back home and not having things just handed to you.”

“Get out more. I felt like I spent a lot of time in my apartment because I was excited to live the apartment life, but definitely get out and look for people outside (of) your roommates and build friendship in other places on campus.”

Megan Turner (9), master of organizational psychology student at Vanguard University and graduate assistant for the Career Center

Haley Gibson (2), junior international studies major

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“It’s not too serious after college; God has so much grace if you make a wrong decision.

Don’t worry too much about taking the wrong path because he will always steer you back on the right one.”

Christian Hassler (1), master of higher education and student development student and graduate assistant for the Office of Leadership and Transitions “I would eat less doughnuts – they don’t make you feel good. They don’t help you study. One is enough for the year.”

Lisa Cross (4), master of English student and graduate assistant for the Office of Spiritual Life

Photos by Jared Overstreet

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VICTORY Instantaneous Bond Scored Through Touchdowns and Tortilla Chips

Marco Flores, sophomore pre-nursing major, Stanyan Buckingham III, junior liberal studies and Christian studies double major, Ben Calcagno, junior theology major and Gabriel Lara, junior Christian studies major.

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Written by Hannah Tamimi

G

ame day. A day that brings thousands of fans together to support their teams. The pass is perfect, the play is made, the touchdown is scored and cheers fill the air. High-fives and hugs are exchanged between strangers and, suddenly, these strangers have a connection.

Social barriers are broken as fans become family.

Students at California Baptist University have the opportunity to gather at sporting events as members of the Lancer Nation as well as bond over professional sports teams with friends and

form relationships they would not have otherwise.

Stanyan Buckingham III, junior liberal studies and Christian studies double major, says watching sports is an ice-breaker between strangers and allows for easy-going conversation.

“Rather than focusing on the conversation, you can focus on the game and don’t really have to think about what the other person is thinking,” Buckingham says. “The only thing you think about is that the both of you want your team to do well and score.”

A lot of commonalities are revealed at sporting events, whether it’s a favorite food,

Photo illustration by Jared Overstreet

RELATIONSHIPS

drink or favorite team. Cheering on sports teams brings about a sense of unity among one another because everyone wants the same outcome: a win for his or her team.

People become excited when they have a common goal and can develop friendships through this connection. “(If you're) at sporting events or watching it on TV and your team does well, you get excited and high-five a guy, hug a guy maybe,” says Ben Calcagno, junior theology major.

Sporting events create an energy that draws fans closer to one another.

“It’s the adrenaline of it all,” says Gabriel Lara, junior Christian studies

major. “All the people around you are rooting for the same team and the energy is high. Suddenly there’s three seconds left on the clock and your heart stops, but the ball goes in the net and everyone is celebrating.

It feels good.”

Buckingham agrees there is an exciting aura when your team is winning.

“It feels good to support a team through their ups and downs,” he says.

“It’s great to be able to see a team succeed.

You feel a sense of accomplishment when you support them.”

Through the support and love for a team, people are able to connect. While watching sports brings people together through support for a team, playing sports can create an even stronger bond.

“Playing sports with people helps to make connections a lot easier than having a normal conversation,” Lara says. “The conversation can get deep when you’re having a normal conversation with someone, but when you’re playing sports the conversation is more easy-going.”

As resident advisers, Calcagno, Buckingham and Lara are able to build relationships with residents as well as with each other through sports.

“A lot of my residents play soccer and it isn’t my favorite sport, but I know Gabe (Lara) plays it and it’s easy for me to invite my residents to things like playing soccer on the roof,” Calcagno says. “It creates a type of bonding that people like and respect because you actually want to spend time with them and you get to know people on deeper levels.”

Sports not only aid in building relationships, but also help to build a relationship with your "best self." Calcagno said that through basketball he felt motivated to develop his skills on the court.

“A couple years ago I wasn’t that great at basketball,” Calcagno says. “But my friends played and kept inviting me out and I started to want to play more and get better. Other people can push you to do things you didn’t think you could do.”

Whether you are on the field, cheering from the sidelines or yelling at your TV, relationships are formed through sport.

Winning and losing together opens the door for friendships to be built. ◆

‘People get excited when you have a common goal and you can develop friendships through that.'

Ben Calcagno, junior theology major

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Maximize your gratitude.

Minimize your envy.

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RELATIONSHIPS

50 YEARS WITH

DR. GARY COLLINS Written by Lauren Koski

H

e has a spirited smile teeming with genuine interest, his eyes quietly intent, never distracted. You may be the only other person in the room, he may have just met you, but his aura says otherwise. He lounges comfortably in one of the two chocolate-colored swivel chairs in his office while conversing with visitors – the prestigious chair behind his desk remains empty. He kicks his leg up to rest upon the other and sits up straight, hands folded neatly in his lap, and he chuckles.

Charming is a good word to describe him. But even more than that, there is depth, relevance and awareness behind the charming mannerisms of Dr. Gary Collins, professor of psychology at California Baptist University. Even within his pristine office, books, diplomas and old photographs tell the transformative story of a young Collins, a young CBU and the timeless friendship between the two.

Collins arrived at California Baptist College not the product of a traditional Christian home as his fellow students, but a first-generation college student with a baseball scholarship, who was presumably destined to go into the family glass business.

Although he had become a Christian at the age of 11 at a vacation Bible school, Collins says it was through the literature he studied at CBC and the faith-based environment that he had a “wake up” in his personal faith.

The atmosphere Collins found himself in was the beginning of a now 50-year relationship with a college that was once located in a single building – the president just down the hallway, the administration and faculty around the next corner. Collins says he “bumped into” people frequently at CBC, and that community-feel has stayed with him.

“Even early as a kid I could really see the difference here, the commitment and the dedication and the desire of most people to be forgiving and redemptive, while maintaining their values and boundaries, and that is a lifelong dance. I got it, I saw it,” he says.

This meaningful and relational attitude remains today as Collins makes his way across campus quite slowly, stopping often to speak with dear friends. This is something he has instilled within the School of Behavioral Sciences at CBU. After graduating with a double major in English and religion from CBC and then receiving a bachelor of divinity in theology degree from Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary, Collins was asked to join the CBC staff as director of Men’s Housing in 1966. This was the first of many staff positions he would hold: dean of men, associate dean of students and then dean of students.

After receiving a master’s degree in social psychology from Loma Linda University, Collins resigned as the dean of students and became a professor. In 1968, Collins taught his first course as a CBC faculty member – cultural anthropology.

“I had to prepare diligently because I did not know a lot more than my students,” says Collins with a smile. He was 26 years old at the time.

Matt Sonke, resident director of University Place Apartments, met Collins through a clinical psychology graduate course in 2010. He remembers the way Collins would precisely choose each word he spoke in class so that each lecture was well-crafted and purposeful. Sonke says Collins was different as a professor because he fostered individual student-professor relationships.

“Dr. Collins was the same in the classroom as out of the classroom,” Sonke ➤

Photos courtesy of the Office of Marketing and Communication

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Collins received a scholarship to California Baptist College for baseball.

says. “He was very similar in his approach.

He was always available, always offered up himself to get to know students and interact with them. He knew everybody’s name in big classes; I would love to hear all of the names he has memorized from the years that he’s been here.”

Throughout the years, Collins has seen the dramatic growth from president to president, graduating class to graduating class and CBC to CBU. He compares this growth to the difference between a seedling and an entire orchard. Collins says it is the original interpersonal feel of CBC he hopes to incorporate into the individual schools on CBU’s campus. It is carefully cultivating each seedling in the orchard.

“This now is a university that has microclimates,” Collins says. “Here in (the School of Behavioral Sciences) we have 12 | PURSUIT

worked really hard with a lot of intention to maintain this. This school feels very much like my first years here and all the way through, and I am grateful.”

Dr. Nathan Lewis, professor of psychology and former student of Collins, has seen the way Collins has navigated university changes and has fostered a sense of community.

“Face-to-face communication cannot be replaced by electronic communication,” Lewis says. “He is passionate about that.

That has been a very valuable lesson for me.

That is because of not only his wisdom, but his understanding of the way relationships operate.”

In 198 0, Collins began law enforcement and forensic work including threat assessment, hostage negotiation and profiling, alongside his academic work at

CBC. He says this was a time in which he truly saw the “underbelly” of Riverside County. In the eyes of his students, balancing academia and forensics and balancing it well, was profound.

“The ability for him to do so well (at CBU) and then manage all of the other things he was doing was always astonishing for us and inspiring,” Sonke says. “You can accomplish a lot if you are devoted and faithful.”

Collins says his faith in God, and balancing his life to include teaching, was what helped process the deeply disturbing situations he came across while in law enforcement. He specifically attributes this to his close relationships with those at CBC. It is the people, he says, who make the university so special.

That may be true, but maybe the people owe some of that community to Collins himself.

“He is so much a part of this institution,” Lewis says. “People don’t even realize; they have no idea. He is an influence. He is a power here, a presence. When he leaves, he will be forgotten because all of us are, but his absence will be felt and people won’t know why.”

Lewis attributes part of Collins’ immense, but underlying, presence on campus to his ability to hold onto the core values CBU has expressed since the beginning. Like a hidden support beam for a large building, Collins has evolved with CBU while still supporting the warmth of a Christian community.

“He embodies the original spirit of (CBU) – a commitment to academic excellence, Christian faith and believing in people, professors investing in students outside the classroom. It is more than academic,” Lewis says. “He is a walking history book of (CBU).”

This history of CBU also walks at the front of the procession of faculty at every commencement ceremony, carrying the academic mace of the university. The privilege of carrying the mace during CBU’s commencement ceremonies is given to the most tenured full professor currently working on campus. Collins has held this position for many years.

While the remaining faculty is lined up either to the right or left of the procession,

RELATIONSHIPS Collins leads front and center. The mace, crafted of bronze and walnut, displays the Great Commission and acts as a symbol of the authority Collins has achieved throughout his 50 years.

Dr. Jeff Barnes, dean of academic services and current staff member given the responsibility of organizing the alignment of faculty at commencement, says Collins leading the procession is an excellent display of the way he has cultivated CBC’s legacy along with CBU’s innovation and modernization.

“We have old-school faculty, meaning from before CBU became what CBU is today, and we have a lot of faculty that are new faculty and Dr. Collins bridges both of those groups seamlessly,” Barnes says.

With that seamless connection between both the past and the present, Collins has made an enormous impact on the individual hearts he has touched on campus. Lewis

says the School of Behavioral Sciences is honored to have Collins as a patriarchal figure of its program.

“None of us want to disappoint him.

We can be honest with him and he never acts disappointed. Need I say more?” Lewis says, his eyes glowing with affection for a man who has been a mentor to him in addition to a professor and colleague.

For 50 out of the university’s 65 years of growth, Collins has devoted his time to the university as a whole, but also to its people.

Dr. Ronald L. Ellis, president of CBU, says Collins’ allegiance is immensely valuable because of the way he invested his own life into the institution.

“His life and the life of the institution are interwoven,” Ellis says. “When I think about Gary and his relationship to the university, the word ‘treasure’ comes up in my mind. He is a CBU treasure. He has ➤

‘He is a walking history book of (CBU).'

Dr. Nathan Lewis, professor of psychology

Collins has been given the honor of carrying the academic mace during each commencement ceremony for California Baptist University.

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‘When I think about Gary and his relationship to the university, the word ‘treasure’ comes up in my mind. He is a CBU treasure.'

Dr. Ronald L. Ellis, President of California Baptist University Since his first year as a CBC faculty member in 1968, Collins has invested more than just his academic knowledge with his students and with the School of Behavioral Sciences.

His colleagues say it is his devotion that has kept the feel of a small, Christian college in the thriving university.

not only seen a lot of the history, he has been a part of it and has helped make it.”

Through dedication and the nurturing of relational culture, the wisdom that Collins has is a quality attributed to him by many.

“I don’t like clichés; I don’t do well with themed phrases,” Collins says with a laugh. “What I do well with is finding for yourself something that is really genuine, that you believe in, that is congruent with your faith, that not only allows you to thrive but you’re paying it forward.”

As CBU continues to evolve and the “orchard” of the university grows in stature

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and acreage, it is this philosophy Collins stands by: “Maximize your gratitude.

Minimize your envy.”

From the young man who was transformed through faith and by the community of a small liberal arts college, to an icon of an innovative Christian university, Collins says he hopes those connected to the university in the present and the future will understand the blessing they have been given to be at CBU. But with such a blessing comes the responsibility to be excellent in their passions and put others before themselves, just as Collins has done all these years. ◆

clarifying

BLINDDATING Written by Lauren Shelburne

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hakespeare once said, “But love is blind and lovers cannot see.” Pursuit put this to the test by randomly selecting Jennie Lee, sophomore history major, and Michael Gotz, sophomore business administration major, to break free of the dating standards they were accustomed to and go on a blind date.

“We are social beings. We are hardwired to be relational,” says Dr. H. Bruce Stokes, professor of anthropology and behavioral sciences and director of the Professional Ministry Counseling Program at California Baptist University.

In the past 30 years, technology has completely transformed the way people interact with each other and created a world of dating that is not as personal, Stokes says. Before going on a date, most couples have followed each other on Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. They think they know who they are dating before spending any time with them. This raises a question: Is this form of dating OK? Most people fall into two separate dating styles: casual vs. purposeful. Lee describes her style of dating as a casual, “get-to-know you-process.” She prefers getting to know someone from the start and figuring out along the way if it will work or not. With that, she says, comes less pressure.

Gotz describes himself as a “purposeful dater” who would choose to get to know a woman from a platonic standpoint over a month or two. He wants to be sure his partner is someone he can see himself dating and having a future with before pursuing a romantic relationship.

Lee and Gotz went into this date completely “blind.” Without a name, a face to look for or any information, the two found themselves “a little in the dark,” Lee says. Without social media, they could not prep questions to ask about each other’s lives; they genuinely had to get to know each other.

Although he said he was slightly nervous, Gotz agreed to go on the date because he thought it was an interesting concept and wanted to try something new.

Under the red, green and white lights of Tio’s Tacos in downtown Riverside, they met for the first time. Although they were shy, they smiled and greeted one another.

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When asked about his first impression of Lee, Gotz said, “Wow, she’s cute!”

Over carne asada tacos and quesadillas, they got to know each other.

They strolled through the art pieces on the property talking about their lives and learning more about each other. They did not know one another’s hobbies or lifestyle details posted to their Instagram account or their favorite bands they followed on Twitter. They got to know each other in a more organic form.

“It was cool for two random people to meet up and start talking,” Gotz says. “It was nice. We don’t do this, we don’t talk to people."

As admittedly shy people, they discussed how they usually do not approach others. Both Lee and Gotz became more open to casual dating through this experience.

“It really opened my eyes,” Lee says. “I learned that blind dating is not as difficult or awkward as everybody makes it out to be.

I had a great time and it was a wonderful experience.”

In an age of social media and technology, dating has changed and people may not meet others as easily through friend groups as their parents did. People are now able to connect through social media, dating websites and apps.

“If you find the right person, you find the right person,” Gotz says. “It doesn’t matter how you meet them.”

Although Gotz and Lee decided to not go on a second date and remain single at this time, they are both thankful for this experience. For Gotz, this experience was a confidence-booster. For Lee, this was a positive experience.

“You are meeting a new person,” Lee says. “Whether or not that works out, you have that experience to add to your life.”

Starting new relationships may be scary and many people shy away from the risk involved in order to potentially find love.

Stokes says this generation craves having relationships, yet at the same time, people have lost the idea of how to make friends.

Casual dating, even if you are “blind,” might shed needed light on the importance of building a foundation of friendship and help bring back the concept of a simpler, more traditional form of dating. ◆

Michael Gotz and Jennie Lee get to know each other for the first time over dinner at Tio's Tacos. This blind date was set up by Pursuit magazine to analyze relationship trends among California Baptist University students.

Photos by Jared Overstreet

RELATIONSHIPS

‘I learned that blind dating is not as difficult or awkward as everybody makes it out to be.'

Jennie Lee, sophomore history major

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LIFESTYLE

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What is your technology terror?

T

echnology is constantly advancing. As time passes, new technology brings with it an endless capacity for innovation, but also an endless capacity to stress people. The anxiety of crafting the perfect AOL away message has transformed into everything from the threat of online identity theft to the dread of accidentally double-tapping an acquaintance’s 65-week old Instagram post.

Technophobia is the fear of technology or complex devices.

Whether it's struggling to keep up with new forms of technology, falling victim to autocorrect, or being a little skeptical of the computer's webcam, many people share the same technology-related horrors.

“Facebook moms: It got really weird with Farmville and it’s still going.”

Trevor Berndt, senior civil engineering major

“I feel like there isn’t that much privacy with technology and I always worry that the government is accessing all of my personal information.”

Kelsey Fillmore, junior philosophy major

“I recently just watched ‘The Terminator’ and ever since then I’ve had a fear that a robot will be developed that will end up destroying mankind.”

Kevin Rojas, freshman mathematics major

“One time I was texting my fiancee and she was having a rough day at work. I sent, ‘I can’t imagine working this long. I hope you are doing well, baby.

Hope you sleep like a rock tonight,’ to a group text she was in with her entire family.”

Addison King, senior accounting major

“I’ve had a Facebook since I was 13. Going back and seeing my posts from back then is a horrifying experience.”

Joshua Pinkerton, senior Christian studies major

“Taking a really ugly Snapchat and sending it to the wrong person. I’ve done that more times than I can count.”

Caylee Jackson, junior mathematics major

“Whenever I am dancing or singing alone in my room, I always feel like someone is watching me through my laptop webcam.”

Katie Liddell, senior kinesiology major

“I always fear that Siri will randomly start talking to me in the middle of the night when I am sleeping.”

Marnie Kavern, junior business administration major PURSUIT | 19

MORE THAN HERTITLE Written by Krysta Hawkins

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LIFESTYLE

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t’s move-in day at California Baptist University and for many students, the first time away from home. However, one student finds herself returning to a familiar scene.

Makenna Lammons, junior psychology and criminal justice double major and president of the Associated Students of California Baptist University, looks at her new apartment in Lancer Arms, just two doors down from the apartment in which she lived as an infant.

“I’ve always been seen as a CBU baby, growing up here going to all the volleyball and basketball games,” Lammons says.

Lammons was born in Portland, Oregon, and moved to California after her father, Anthony Lammons, became the dean of students at CBU. Her Lancer ties also include her older sister, Mikayla, who is a CBU alumni and graduate assistant in the Office of Leadership and Transitions.

“We are extremely different individuals but have a very strong bond,” Lammons says. “We are both fairly stubborn, so I’m

not going to sugar coat it – we do argue sometimes. But we love each other very much and would do anything for one another.”

Makenna’s mother, Sandy Lammons, is one of her biggest role models. It is her big heart, constant motivation, and walk with Christ that inspires Makenna.

“She has always enjoyed being an involved parent as I was growing up and would always be the first to volunteer in the Parent-Teacher Association,” Lammons says.

She is also the biggest cheerleader for Mikayla and me. Whether it’s coming to flag football games or sticking “Vote 4 Makenna” stickers on hundreds of candies, my mom is always there supporting and cheering us on.”

Because of Makenna’s strong bond with CBU, she was comfortable entering her first year of college. However, her freshman year was not what she expected.

Her faith was tested when her mother was diagnosed with cancer.

“(The diagnosis) was really difficult for me because I was living on campus and trying to get accustomed to college life while she was going through radiation. I wanted to be there for her during her treatments, but that was not possible for me,” she says.

“During this time, God surrounded me with a great group of friends who supported me and prayed over my family.”

Lammons says God gave her the peace she needed during that time as she was reassured of God’s perfect timing.

She was challenged to rely and trust in God, the holder of her future. Faith was always present in Lammon’s life and has strengthened during her time at CBU. “I do not have a crazy background story but it’s amazing to see how God is really faithful,” Lammons says. “One thing I do know is that God is gracious and he extends mercy. I’ve seen it time and time again in my life and that is what my faith is built on – that Jesus died on the cross to forgive us. It is something I do not have an unwavering doubt about.” ➤

Makenna Lammons, junior psychology and criminal justice double major and president of ASCBU, says she receives most of her support from her family, which fuels her drive for success.

Photos by Mariss Eanes

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Taking on the role as ASCBU president is a huge accomplishment, however the title that sits in front of her name can sometimes erase the fact that she is still a 20-year-old college student.

“It’s funny because guys will tell me I am intimidating and I’m thinking, ‘No, I’m really not,’ but people place this persona on you when they see a female in power,” Lammons says.

Her interest in television shows such as “CSI Miami," “Criminal Minds" and “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” shaped her career goal of being a forensic psychologist.

She will graduate in the spring with hopes

of working with law enforcement to profile criminals.

Before Lammons graduates she says she wants to leave a mark on campus and give CBU students and staff something they can enjoy after her term is over.

Jackson Burge, junior kinesiology major, is serving as executive vice president of ASCBU this year and says he admires Lammons' dedication to her position.

“One word that describes her would have to be ‘ambitious,’” Burge says. “She is that leader who knows how to have a good time and takes advantage of those times to get to know her coworkers, but she

also knows when it’s time to get down to business and is amazing at what she does.”

Lammons says she does not see the title as something that makes her a boss over her cabinet, but rather as an opportunity to cultivate them into leaders.

Her model of leadership is one of a servant, something that was instilled in her by her adviser, Chris Hofschroer, who said, “If serving is below you, then leadership is beyond you.”

Lammons says she keeps this Hofschroer quote in her phone to remind her why she took the office: Not for herself, but to help others. ◆

A Closer Look Pursuit: What sports are you interested in?

Makenna Lammons: I am a huge fan of pingpong and love the intramural sports at CBU. P: What is one habit you have?

ML: I have a tendency to be clumsy. I can be sitting down and still fall.

P: What is something interesting about you that no one would know?

‘The higher up you go, the more humble you have to be.'

Makenna Lammons, junior psychology and criminal justice double major

ML: When I was a toddler, I was in the music video “I Knew I Loved You” by Savage Garden with my sister and dad. It was a legit video; Kirsten Dunst was in it.

P: Who is your favorite musician right now?

ML: One Republic, Sam Hunt, Maroon 5, Ed Sheeran and Tori Kelly.

P: What is your favorite color?

ML: Silver.

P: What is your favorite animal?

ML: I love camels.

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LIFESTYLE

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Talk

L A C I T I POL ZATION I R A L PO ..

about.

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PURSUIT | 23

I

t’s your grandmother’s 80th birthday.

Distant relatives gather in celebration as they reunite and amiably update one another on life events since the last family get-together. The news is on TV as background noise. That is, until the news anchors begin discussing the presidential candidates.

Once the hot topic of politics comes up, a dark cloud forms over what was intended to be a light-hearted event. The family is divided. Your uncle yells at your grandpa.

Your cousin insults your great-aunt. Each of them quickly wish grandma a “happy birthday,” get in their cars and speed off in a rampage, muttering about how their relatives could possibly have such an incorrect political outlook.

This division and argument does not end at family gatherings. It’s all over news feeds. Just click “view 13 more comments” on a political post on Facebook and you’ll witness how swiftly a conversation can devolve into hostility.

Welcome to politics! Elephants versus donkeys. Red versus blue. Conservatives versus liberals. Perhaps the United States of America has a bit of irony behind its name.

Bitter Rivals The Pew Research Center defines political polarization as “the vast and growing gap between liberals and conservatives, Republicans and Democrats.”

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According to a study by Pew, political polarization is more prevalent today than it has been since 1994, and negative attitudes toward opposing parties have also increased in recent years. In the past two decades, Democrats’ negative attitudes toward Republicans increased from 16 to 27 percent, and Republicans’ negative attitudes toward Democrats have more than doubled from 17 to 36 percent.

Mark Blincoe, assistant professor of history at California Baptist University, says opposition between the two major parties is nothing new, but rather a battle since the parties began.

“In order to win, you have to convince people that your rival is bad,” Blincoe says.

“You have to sway the population to dislike the other side. Even more than they like you, they have to dislike the other side.

Certainly our contemporary politics is as much about why you shouldn’t like the other person as much as it is why (you should).”

He adds that Democrats and Republicans have different visions for the United States and, although they engage in the same political process, their desired end result looks very different. The only time Republicans and Democrats are united, he says, is in the middle of a national crisis. When Americans feel safe, they are disbanded. Because they so often feel safe, a difference in political affiliation causes arguments and division.

Although political division in America has always been a reality, Pew research

clearly shows a burgeoning gap between Republicans and Democrats in the past two decades. Blincoe says this trend could be influenced by America’s access to the media. Since the ‘90s, the advent of the Internet and growing number of 24-hour news networks have greatly influenced the way people perceive politics. This only gives more ammunition to the already-divided country.

The Divide in Media/Agenda-Setting and Framing Theory Communication theories, such as framing and agenda-setting, say those who produce news often have a certain political view they subliminally push onto the consumer. Mary Ann Pearson, associate professor of public relations and chair of arts and sciences for CBU’s Online and Professional Studies, says the practice of these theories sets the tone for how the media is going to present political news while, at the same time, filtering through statements and views that oppose their biases.

“The people who are in power at the publication guide what is covered,” Pearson, who is also the director of master's degrees

for pubic relations and communications for OPS, says. “They try to give this illusion of freedom of the press but if you are at Fox News, you’re not going to have a liberally slanted article. It’s just not going to happen because that’s not who they are, and even though they want to be objective, they have a certain way of presenting things and that’s the framing and agenda-setting.”

News outlets such as Fox News, a more consistently conservative network, and MSNBC, a more liberal news source, have ideals that cater to a specific audience.

These values often stem from the producer – those who have the power to control what is or is not said during a broadcast.

“Once that agenda is set, there are things that are appropriate and not appropriate,” Pearson says. “And then there are gatekeepers that work there as editors or producers who edit out the things that aren’t correct. So all this takes place without people really saying ‘this is what it is’ but when you study communication, you know that is what’s going on behind the scenes.”

Every person has a bias, but when people are consuming information with several different biases and watching the tension in a newscast, it is easy to translate those opinions into everyday life.

“Because they are so divided, that might be why we’re divided, too, because research shows that media helps us remember why we like or dislike a candidate,” Pearson says. “Since the actual outlets are divided, maybe that’s why we’re divided. Because if you go back to the ‘70s and ‘60s, the early days of TV, there were about five channels and they all covered everything.” ➤ PURSUIT | 25

The Divide in Social Media Social media has given everyone a platform to be “experts” on political party affiliation. Troy Hinrichs, professor of criminal justice, says someone could have only 80 followers on Twitter, but if a major outlet picks up their tweet, someone who once had no influence beyond their 80 followers now holds a megaphone.

Social media allows people to attack one another in ways that would not normally happen face-to-face. Hinrichs says these arguments tend to escalate into perceived personal attacks.

Michael Marse, assistant professor of communication studies and coach of CBU’s speech and debate team, says the people often involved in social media arguments are not equipped to argue correctly based on evidence.

“It hurts by restricting people’s ability to use evidence and find common ground,” Marse says. “Nuanced arguments don’t fit nicely into memes and people either don’t think through their responses or they are ill-equipped to critically think through (where Democrats and Republicans stand on issues).”

Social media often hurts the relationship between Democrats and Republicans more than it unifies them.

Blincoe says these social media blasts could have connections to what society is seeing from political leaders as they attack each other and the changing culture.

“It’s not that (people) faced different issues 40 years ago. The difference is that 40 years ago people felt public things were not self-defined. Public things were defined by the collective group and we’re shifting that,” Blincoe says. “I don’t blame social media; social media is a symptom of where culture is going. We’re so focused on our own ideas and opinions that (they become)

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more important than things working.”

The agenda-setting theory paired with social media achieves one thing: greater division.

Can We End the Divide?

In an effort to stop this division, should students break away from political talk? In an issue of The Banner dated Oct. 8, 1976, the Baptist Leadership Council made the following statement in support of the Young Democrats and Young Republicans clubs present at CBU in the ’60s and ’70s: “It is the Christian duty of Southern Baptists to engage in all available avenues of political activity, as otherwise they would lose their influence.”

For students to know how to navigate the election season, they must be willing to engage in politics. Many people do not care until they feel their vote counts, but by doing that, Blincoe says they are letting others decide for them.

It is possible for Democrats and Republicans to politely disagree. Blincoe and Hinrichs both experience these conversations with colleagues in their departments. Blincoe encourages students to revive the Young Republicans and Young Democrats clubs on campus because of the value in exploring different worldviews.

This will help students understand the other side and help them develop their personal political beliefs. Blincoe says he believes there are faculty members who would happily sponsor both clubs.

“We have Constitution Day out of our department and our goal is always to try to provide multiple perspectives,” Blincoe says. “We want to expose our students to multiple viewpoints even if they don’t agree with the viewpoint because they need to understand and learn and work through that viewpoint, too.

LIFESTYLE “So even a conservative institution should want a liberal speaker and a liberal institution should want a conservative speaker because it facilitates your educational goals.”

Referring back to the research conducted by Pew, Blincoe says those in political power today have followed in the footsteps of those before them in the way they treat one another. It was not peaceful before and that has trickled down to the next generation as Republicans and Democrats become more polarized.

“The things we consider dysfunctions are learned behavior over time; you pass it on to the next generation,” Blincoe says.

“Your generation is going to have to train themselves to not escape from it.

“You’re going to have to engage in it better so that when, 30 years down the road, your generation is the one who’s running for president, you have that as your new learned behavior and then you teach others that.”

As media continues to evolve, students must maintain their awareness and realize the influence media has on their perception of politics.

“Perceptions do matter,” Hinrichs says. “If people feel or think (our nation is) more divided and they act that way, then of course, it will be that way.”

This generation of Americans is going to have to decide what political behavior to adopt. Their choice could result in a movement to change for the better or a continued cycle of division. The decision is theirs. ◆

‘It is the Christian duty of Southern Baptists to engage in all available avenues of political activity, as otherwise they would lose their influence.'

The Baptist Leadership Council in the Oct. 8, 1976, issue of The Banner

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ARTS

Unlikely Visitors at

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Written by Courtney Coleman

F

ew art galleries hand audiences a small flashlight and encourage them to enter into a pitch black room, and few galleries offer an interactive installation like “Linhurst.”

Faculty members from California Baptist University displayed their works of art at the opening of CBU’s latest downtown art exhibit, “Unlikely Visitors.”

Toward the end of summer, a call for submissions announced that the next exhibition at CBU’s downtown art gallery would be composed only of faculty-made works of art.

Andrew Hochradel, adjunct professor for the College of Architecture, Visual Arts and Design, immediately jumped at the opportunity to display something completely unique.

Hochradel requested permission to have a room to himself to create an art piece that could not only be seen, but experienced.

“I wanted to make something where you have to actively engage in the art piece,” Hochradel says. “The feeling I wanted to give people was to be an unlikely visitor in a space.”

The space Hochradel created was an exhibit staged to look like a person’s bedroom, complete with scattered laundry, a full set of furniture and a man sleeping peacefully in a bed. Hochradel was the man

“sleeping” and admits he made the mistake of only bringing along his bed’s box frame, leaving the mattress at home.

Like a trooper, Hochradel lay in the bed anyway on opening night and for almost eight hours remained completely still as “visitors” entered his space. His inspiration came from many places, such as the house in which he grew up on Linhurst Street, which gave his piece its title.

“There is a lot of time where if I’m sick or out of it, I’ll wake up and think that I’m still there,” he says.

For him, Linhurst is a place in between being asleep and awake where he imagines being back in his old home. “Linhurst” the exhibit was his way of bringing people into that same mental space.

Hochradel says he intended to create a new gallery experience for visitors. In his design, he wanted to not only show art, but encourage the audience to search for themselves the meaning within the piece.

Viewers literally had to search in the dark with small flashlights provided at the door in his exhibit.

What Hochradel calls “puzzle pieces” were hidden throughout the room for viewers to find and contemplate.

“It was crazy actually being in the space and seeing the piece completely by the audience,” Hochradel says. “By the end (of the show), it had turned around to where I felt really uncomfortable and kind of scared because it felt like these people had taken

complete ownership of the space and (my thought was), ‘now I’m the one who should not be here.’”

To some extent, that was what Hochradel expected. Within the space, he had left a large stamp that read “mine” out in the open for viewers to pick up.

“The idea behind the ‘mine’ is that you are a visitor in that space, and that stamp was for you to claim whatever you wanted and not be a visitor anymore,” he says. “What do you do when you’re in this space you know you shouldn’t be, but no one knows you’re there?”

Another puzzle piece left in the room was a black-and-white picture of a girl wearing a ski mask. The mysterious photo is reminiscent of a burglar, with the girl’s eyes just barely peaking through the mask.

Hochradel included the photos as a means to inject themes of mischief into the space and to test if people would identify with the girl after realizing they themselves were invading a space like a burglar.

With every group that entered the space, no matter how hesitant at first, the chance for mischief was irresistible.

Some groups played with Andrew’s things, one group moved a bookshelf, the “mine” stamp was used to brand everything from pieces of paper to Hochradel himself.

Hochradel says nearly every group had someone poke him and in the end, the unlikely visitors became confident invaders acting as if they owned the space. ◆ Andrew Hochradel, adjunct professor for the College of Architecture, Visual Arts and Design, lays silent and still in his exhibit bed while students rummage around through his belongings. A “mine” stamp is used to claim possession of Hochradel’s items.

Photos by Jared Overstreet

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SUMMER MUSIC

REVIEWS Written by Randy Plavajka

Tame Impala ‘Currents' Interscope Records

C

urrents,” the newest release from the western Australian powerhouse Tame Impala, lived up to its hype and exceeded expectations. After a successful sophomore album, “Lonerism,” it seemed the Perth-based band could only further climb the charts as they progressed as a unit.

The neo-psychedelic, polyphonic instrumentation for which Tame Impala has become famous was plentiful throughout the 51 minutes of art composed by lead singer, multi-instrumentalist and sole producer Kevin Parker, the driving force behind the project. Every lyric, sound and rhythm was expertly produced and, as a whole, the flow from song to song is unpredictable and yet impeccable.

For this album specifically, Parker seemed to channel a more 1980s pop vibe with a touch of R&B mixed into the background. “Cause I’m a Man,” one single from the album, calls to mind that slow build into the chorus common in R&B, but with a spin that makes it a song that is uniquely Tame Impala.

As one continues to cruise along the highway of sound, the most noticeable difference in this work is the absence of synthesizers echoing through every track.

Parker delves into a more spontaneous song pattern, all while peppering in the masterfully drawn-out interludes of sound that feel like a harmonious jam session.

The feature track, “Let it Happen,” is the most familiar, calling to mind the heavily layered, steady-paced structure that was common on the band’s two previous

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releases. The seven-minute progression of sound is worth every second and pays tribute to the skipping of old vinyl records with a section of jumps and cuts that plays well with the jam section of the arrangement.

“Currents” has its own style compared to other works by Parker, but still maintains a stong identity within the discrography and is sure to sound even better during live performances.

Parker’s personality resonates in his studio work as well as in the pacakaging

of the album, which features artwork from Kentucky-based designer Robert Beatty.

The optimal listening environment is almost a state of meditation. “Currents” is an intangible experience and beckons the audience to lay down and ponder each chord and word as they emanate from the speakers.

Taking the definition of a good album to the next level with his psychedelic vibes and melodic genius, Parker delivers again and again with each track on the album.

ARTS

Jamie xx ‘In Colour'

Young Turks

T

he latest solo album from Jamie Smith, most known for his work in The xx, was one of the funnest releases on shelves this past summer.

The production behind each track demonstrates a sound that Smith has spent years honing and reinvigorating to provide electronic music lovers with a chilled-out experience featuring his signature heavyhitting rhythm throughout.

Smith collaborated with fellow

Ducktails ‘St. Catherine'

Domino

T

he indie band Ducktails may not be known worldwide, or even nationwide, but with its fifth album, “St. Catherine,” the group has mastered a phenomenal, laid-back sound that demands a bigger fan base to come along for the sonic ride.

The instrumentation throughout the record has a homey feel to it, as if the songs were recorded in a home studio with friends enjoying each track being laid to tape.

Third Eye Blind ‘Dopamine'

Mega Collider

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any people will recognize Third Eye Blind as a staple of growing up in the 1990s and early 2000s, but let it be known that they should not be considered a band of the past.

Most known for their songs such as “Semi-Charmed Life” and “Never Let You Go,” as well as the acoustic sing-a-long “Jumper,” Third Eye Blind’s latest album, “Dopamine,” does a fantastic job of mixing this nostalgia with a more mature sound.

Each song recalls a simpler time in music production, when special effects need

xx member Romy Croft on two of “In Colour’s” stronger tracks: “SeeSaw” and “Loud Places.” These tracks call to mind familiar waters the two artists sailed with their collective project The xx.

Every song showcases the style of house music for which Jamie xx is most known, while still giving listeners something new and out of the ordinary. This is most noticeable with the hypnotic tracks “The Rest is Noise” and “Hold Tight.”

“Headbanging in the Mirror” and title track “St. Catherine” radiate a vibe that is both intriguing and satisfying. These tracks almost make listeners feel like the concert is physically in the room.

From start to finish, the record does not disappoint and is a must-listen for fans of indie music, or those just looking to expand their musical horizons with a new collaboration of relaxing sound.

not be added to every riff or voice – a time when songs could be recorded straight from the microphone to the record.

Opening track “Everything is Easy” helps set the tone of a band that still has that special sound with a simple song that is both fun and memorable. From there, the band does as it pleases with each song having its own feeling and mood.

Overall, Third Eye Blind delivers a solid album without going over the top, providing 47 minutes of quality music to jam out to in Southern California. ◆

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SHUTTERSPEAK Language of Cross-Cultural Photography

Written by Lauren Koski Photos by Jacob Gonzalez

E

ach morning he fills his camera bag with lighting equipment, extra memory cards and a large dose of compassion.

Children trail behind him as he walks through the rural village, their eyes hopeful that he will lower the camera to their level and show them

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the colorful images one more time.

Every day presents another bridge to the little community when shy smiles turn into laughter and a photo shoot turns into an invitation for tea.

Jacob Gonzalez, junior photography major at California Baptist University, used his gift of

photography as an avenue to build relationships on his International Service Project to East Asia during the summer of 2015.

Pursuit sat down with Gonzalez to discuss how building relationships and breaking barriers was as simple as snapping a photograph.

ARTS

Pursuit: What is it about photography that draws people in and makes them curious, interested or intrigued?

Jacob Gonzalez: Photography, to most people, is just clicking a button, but it is so much more than that. So many things have to come together to make a great image, and it’s the photographer’s job to put all the right elements into the frame for an image

to stand out. People are always drawn to photographs because the viewer gets to see the moment through the photographer's eye. They might have missed something and the photograph helps them to see differently. Moments are there one second and then gone, but a photograph captures that moment and lets people be in that moment forever. ➤

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Pursuit: How does your personal faith influence your photography?

JG: My faith plays a big part in my photography. God gave me this talent, and everything I have done and will do is a gift from Him. I do my best to give Him the glory through my photographs.

Pursuit: Describe your favorite moment in East Asia. Why did this moment impact you?

JG: I had some extra time one afternoon and spotted a few farmers up a hill. This man was up there working away and I started taking photos of him. He had the biggest smile the whole time I was shooting.

After I finished taking photos and started walking away, he said something I did not

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understand and motioned me to follow him.

He started down the hill and I followed right behind him. He took me back to his house and told me to wait in the courtyard.

A few seconds later, he and his wife came out and he wanted me to photograph them together. When I was done I showed them both the photos and they smiled and laughed. I said goodbye and started walking back down the hill, but the man came with me to show me the way and walk me all the way back to the road. I will never forget that moment.

Pursuit: How many photos did you take during your ISP? JG: Probably around 20,000 pictures and video.

Pursuit: Does holding a camera in your hand change the language barrier at all?

JG: Photography breaks the language barrier. It is visual and needs no language.

Good photographs should speak for themselves and need no explanation. The village we were in had their own language that was not written. This was probably the first time they had seen this kind of camera equipment. Every time I showed them the photos they always laughed and gave me a thumbs up. The most humbling part of the whole journey was realizing that I was taking the very first portraits of these villagers – it would be really cool to get prints made and bring them back to them. ➤

ARTS

Two of approximately 20,000 photos Jacob Gonzalez, junior photography major, took during his International Service Project. Gonzalez was able to connect with people of East Asia through the use of his camera and show the people with whom he established relationships. No spoken language was required.

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Pursuit: What has God taught you through using your photography to serve others?

JG: He has put me in some awesome situations that I can be a light and share his story with the people around me. One of the biggest things I have learned is that it doesn’t matter what you do, anyone can serve and make a difference with his or her talents.

Being able to use my talent to glorify God and minister to the village was an incredible experience and meeting the people and capturing their way of life was definitely the highlight. I came back with some great pictures and even better stories. â—†

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ARTS

‘Moments are there one second and then gone, but a photographer captures that moment and lets people be in that moment forever.'

Jacob Gonzalez, junior photography major Photo by Kayla Plouffe

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PURSUIT STAFF

TRIES

Balloon

Animals

Written by Bekka Wiedenmeyer

B

alloon animals may seem like a casual form of entertainment found at a carnival or theme park. For Brandon Chow, senior international studies major, it could be considered a form of art, passed onto him by his father when Chow was in kindergarten.

The Pursuit magazine staff heard about this unusual hobby and wanted to meet with Chow to learn balloon art. Pursuit staff members Caleb Bol, sophomore graphic design major, Jared Overstreet, senior biology major, Mariss Eanes, senior photography major, and Krysta Hawkins, sophomore journalism and new media major, decided to give it a try.

The eager group set up shop in one of the cavernous racquetball courts at the Recreation Center. After securely locking themselves in, the staff huddled around Chow, who handed them each balloons and some air pumps to use. Chow reassured the staff this was not the first time he’d done a balloon animal lesson; he taught his fellow International Service Project team members two summers ago.

Before tackling the art of balloon animals, Chow started by leading the Pursuit staff in how to make a sword. The staff watched with trepidation as Chow began the first step, which was to stretch the material of the balloon out so it could fit over the nozzle of the air pump and not leak.

Some of the staff struggled with this very first step. Limp balloons refused to attach to the ends of the pumps, or staff members lacked the strength necessary to

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push air into the balloons. Some of the staff even had severe cases of the giggles from watching one another try and fail, which rendered them temporarily unable to blow up the balloons.

Eventually, however, all were ready to move on to the next step, which was to blow the balloon into an oblong shape and tie it off at the bottom. Hawkins, who has a fear of popping balloons, was particularly apprehensive as the staff wrestled with tying off the ends of their balloons.

Her fear became a reality in the third step of the process, which was folding the lower half of the balloon into two folds and then twisting it around until it resembled the hilt of a sword. Chow, surprisingly, was the first to pop his balloon, and as the sound echoed around the racquetball court, Hawkins flew to safety in the corner.

This process took longer than the first two steps as the staff grappled with twisting the balloons and making them stay in their intended shape. Once the feat was completed they all held in their hands balloon swords that they took turns wielding.

The first animal they attempted to create was a dog, which involved more complex folding and twisting. Most of the staff successfully created balloon animals that more or less resembled dogs. Bol, however, went the extra mile and made a long-necked dog that they all decided afterward to be a giraffe.

“I think the hardest part is getting (the) proportions right, like arms and legs,” Chow says.

In the end, the staff resolved that there were mixed feelings on the learning Photos by Daren Stevens

ARTS

experience. Some on staff were more terrified than others.

“It was literally the worst thing I’ve ever done in my life, but I’m grateful that I got to face my fears,” Hawkins says.

Overstreet summed up the event with a positive twist.

“Knowing how to twist balloons into shapes of animals is a nice new skill to add to my collection, along with dissecting animals on lab tables and being able to take a picture,” he says.

“If any of my friends or family are

looking for some entertainment, I can now twist a balloon into a decent-looking dog, or if they want my advanced level, I can give them a really lumpy-looking snake.”

With a new respect for Chow's expertise, the Pursuit staff took turns displaying their interesting creations and showing off their new skills. All strutted in a line down an imaginary catwalk in the middle of the racquetball court toward the camera, wielding their swords or dogs – or giraffes – happy to exhibit the fruits of their recent efforts. ◆

Jared Overstreet, senior biology major, and Mariss Eanes, senior photography major, attempt to learn the new skill of making balloon animals from Brandon Chow, senior international studies major.

PURSUIT | 39

TRAVEL

taste of

Written by Iona Brannon

B

ehind the doors of the apartment in a sleepy, gated neighborhood lies flavorful food, strong community and a blend of cultures.

Tharangini Puvvala and Sindhu Reddy, master of business administration students, and Preethi Pamidimukkala, master of public health student, at California Baptist University, have transformed this apartment from a house into a home.

All three roommates lived in Hyderabad, India, before coming to America, where they connected and became friends.

The apartment is furnished with simplicity and efficiency in mind. A pile of books rests on the ottoman as a reminder of their purpose in America: education. A calendar on the fridge venerates a Hindu idol as a reminder of their religious duties.

Spices from India wait in the cabinets to be used, their rich scent filling the kitchen.

The girls are dressed in traditional and colorful kurtis, another hint of India. In this apartment a collision of Indian and American is present.

When in need of Indian spices or ingredients, India Sweets and Spices on Magnolia Avenue is the place the women go. As they swing open the door to enter the shop, they open a portal to India.

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Encouragement in the form of food is a binding agent for the Indian community at CBU. The pungent scent of spices fills the air, captivating the senses.

The shop is covered with bright colors in every aisle and on every shelf. They enter with a comfortable familiarity. Everyone is a friend, everyone is family.

The bond between Indian students is evident from the way they interact and talk about each other.

“If we know an Indian is missing his family, we go to his house and encourage him,” Kanamata says.

Encouragement in the form of food is common and a binding agent for the Indian community at CBU as they frequently gather to celebrate birthdays and festivals over dishes from their homeland.

“Our survival is food,” Pualla says.

Spices are vital in Indian cuisine and culture.

“Without these (spices), Indians can’t live; that’s all,” Pualla says.

She hums along to a song by Rihanna

Photos by Lauren Koski

as she points out different Indian spices on the aisle.

Pamidimukkala’s spice collection cannot be found in American stores.

She brought her spices from India, along with homemade ghee – clarified butter commonly used in India – made by her mother.

The bright little kitchen is the heart of their apartment. The women laugh as they prepare the different components for dinner.

“We do everything together,” Pualla says as she asks Pamidimukkala to warm up the chapati naan.

Their language is seasoned with “sweetheart” and “dear,” reflecting their affection for one another.

The little steam cooker screeches in anticipation for the meal as it cooks the rice.

“The screams means the rice is ready,” Kanamata says.

The distinct smell of the spices quickly permeates the apartment. The classic chicken curry is a bright orange – colored by the chili-powder that hints at the zingy flavors within the dish. Yogurt drinks are served to soften the sting of spicy curry, and ghee is mixed into the rice to tame the flavor for the less spice-tolerant diners.

The smell of cooking wafts out of the little Indian apartment into the streets of Riverside. It is home away from home. ◆ As the pressure cooker sputters and steams on the stove and spicy curry fills the air, Pualla, Kanamata and Pamidimukkala hold on to a piece of their home in India.

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Pasadena

DESTINATION:

Written by Natilee Ruiz and Ashley Dinkel

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Photos by Nadia Nawabi

TRAVEL

Ashley Dinkel (left) and Natilee Ruiz walk down Colorado Boulevard toward the Paseo Colorado mall, passing shops such as Crossroads Trading Co. and White House Black Market.

Paseo Colorado and Colorado Boulevard

C

olorado Boulevard can easily be considered a popular place to roam around in Pasadena, especially if you want a break from pulling those allnighters after procrastinating.

With multiple shops, restaurants, a large park and Old Town Pasadena, students can enjoy their time outside of Riverside.

If planning further ahead, the famous Rose Parade has attracted spectators from across the country for the past century as it floats down Colorado Boulevard on New Year’s Day. Paseo Colorado is a retail property spanning two blocks with well-known shops and restaurants such as DSW, Chico’s, P.F. Chang’s, Yard house and ArcLight Cinemas.

With food, movies and shopping all conveniently located in one place, who wouldn’t have fun exploring here?

Before hitting Old Town Pasadena, a historical district with even more shops and restaurants, you can stop by Central Park, a relaxing place to rest only a block from the boulevard.

Norton Simon Museum

Laemmle Playhouse

reat hta k ing, peacefu l and enlightening experiences await at the Norton Simon Museum, where students can view the works of Van Gogh, Picasso and Henri Matisse.

The two-story museum hosts a variety of arts: sculptures, paintings and garden landscaping. Separated into rooms classified either by century or genre, the artwork spans a vast audience. Rooms filled with art represent centuries of artists showcased together, creating works of common interest throughout the world.

Upon descending the stairs to the lower level of the museum, an entrance to the sculptures, primarily from Asia, welcomes the visitor.

Gold, bronze and stone statues fill rooms and the large windows give a glimpse to the gardens outside. Sculptures extend outside the museum and are scattered along a walk through the garden or a visit to the outdoor café.

The Norton Simon Museum is free for students and provides a creative outlet for those who can appreciate historic and innovative artwork.

ust around the corner on Colorado Boulevard stands the Laemmle Playhouse 7 Theater, a vibrant independent film theater catering to the eclectic tastes of both younger and older audiences.

The theater frequently hosts newly released indie films and provides a wide range of films and shorts for viewing.

Students are given a significant discount of $7 movies on Tuesdays, which draws in a younger crowd of film enthusiasts.

Every Monday, the Laemmle shows recordings of live ballets and operas, bringing the traditional theatrical feel back to American theater.

The Laemmle is also an official theater for Oscar-qualifying screenings.

Filmmakers and Oscar hopefuls can screen and promote their pieces at the Laemmle and often host small premieres here.

These screenings reach a local fan base for indie films, but serve as an exciting night out that mirrors a small-town Hollywood event. ➤

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Urth Caffé

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fter cruising Colorado Boulevard, take a break and enjoy 100 percent organically grown coffee, fine teas and sandwiches at Urth Caffé. The café screams hipster but it is a great place to taste something different than the usual cafés in Riverside.

With four locations in Los Angeles, the café expanded to Pasadena and features indoor and outdoor seating with mosaic designed walls to add to the hipster vibe.

Besides organic coffee, the café uses locally grown produce to complete its health-conscious menu, which features unique desserts for vegans. Along with carrying its own brand of premium roasted, whole-bean organic coffee, the independent café offers boba drinks, smoothies and fine teas from the company’s own tea garden that has been in the same family for six generations.

Urth Caffé is the perfect place to stop for a midday snack and recharge for the rest of this city adventure.

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Fair Oaks Pharmacy & Soda Fountain

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n old pharmaceutical drug store sits on the corner of Fair Oaks Avenue and Mission Street, inviting those cruising through South Pasadena to gaze at the old-fashioned store.

Still titled after its original purpose, the Fair Oaks Pharmacy and Soda Fountain offers more than its name. There is a counter sitting below a flashing neon sign that says, “Soda Fountain.”

Parents, children and teens sit and enjoy Coke floats, sundaes, milkshakes and classic Coke beverages. Enjoy one of these thirst-quenching treats on a warm day in South Pasadena.

A wall of candy jars fills the right side of the room accompanied by shelves of old-fashioned Halloween goodies. Behind the counter is a room with a wall dedicated to Star Wars and original Superman memorabilia.

Celebrating its 100th anniversary, the Fair Oaks Pharmacy is a historic landmark in the Pasadena community. This quaint and historic pit stop is a must for both residents and visitors.

Whether you are looking to explore for the weekend or unwind in a warm city, Pasadena is the ultimate Southern California city getaway. ◆

Established in 1915, the Fair Oaks Pharmacy continues to be one of South Pasadena's most treasured shops.

TRAVEL

finding

FALL Written by Hannah Burnett

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omething about fall has the ability to captivate all five senses. The new season catches us in every area of life, even in a city that experiences so little visible change when the calendar pages flip from beach umbrellas to pumpkins and colorful trees.

Like many places in Southern California, Riverside has few oak trees that turn color, wind that turns icy or woodburning stoves that put warm, homey smoke into the atmosphere.

However, that doesn’t stop the comments about feeling like fall has arrived.

To many, fall is in the little things: new school supplies, the perfect pumpkin or stepping on a crunchy leaf on the ground.

To many, fall is in the little things.

As a season of harvest, fall can break up the sameness of schedules with promise of some kind of transformation. Like Christmas came to the “Whos down in Whoville,” residents of Southern California can still have fall. Here are some tips to help you find fall in a fall-less place.

Raw honey is harvested, bottled and sold in the gift shop at Willowbrook Apple Farm.

Feels like fall Sometimes fall in Southern California is walking to class head down and involuntarily squinting to prevent rain from dropping into your eyes. Other times it’s hiding inside from the scorching heat and turning your thermostat down to 60 degrees so you can curl up with a book and drink some hot apple cider. Cloudy skies or not, fall is the inspiration to pull out boots, flannels and scarves for the first time in about five months.

Feeling fall sometimes requires an adventure off-campus. Live Oak Pumpkin Patch is a half-hour drive from campus and an ideal place to pick a pumpkin or wander through a corn maze. The pumpkin patch also has a hay ride through the property and live music on the weekends.

Looks like fall Fall color usually arrives mid-October in the mountains of Southern California.

Dusty-yellow and crimson-red run like watercolor onto the green leaves of oak trees in places like Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear.

Standing lakeside at the Lake Arrowhead Village, the atmosphere is cool and the smell of syrup from the Belgian Waffle House fills the air.

Riverside tends to lack autumn sensations but a short drive up to the mountains can revive a sense of newness.

To fully emerge in a canopy of fall leaves, take one of the many hiking trails scribbled across the mountains of the San Bernardino National Forest.

Sounds like fall Since seasons and weather occur in nature, finding fall sometimes requires a hike. Getting outside can bring attention to things that are normally overlooked. The rush of water or sound of wind through tree leaves breaks the otherwise unfamiliar silence.

Take a short trail or get lost along a river to Aztec Falls near Lake Arrowhead.

Cameron Manchester, freshman health science major, and Jessica Burnett, freshmen graphic design major, carefully choose a path through the rocks as they follow the river bank to Aztec Falls.

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Previous page photo by Katie Ring

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Some take the short section of the Pacific Crest Trail that runs along the ridge above the river while others explore the twists and turns of the river bank, climbing boulders and crossing water to the destination.

Tastes like fall Most of the time this statement is made after receiving a cup of something warm and pumpkin spice-flavored from a barista.

But fall is also a time when we eat heavier, warmer dishes.

Thanksgiving inspires buttery mashed potatoes and football season lets barbecued burgers and hot dogs live on a bit longer.

Apples reach peak ripeness and apple farms begin to bake cinnamon-infused pies and caramel dipped indulgences.

Located less than an hour from campus, Riley Apple Farms can help fulfill pumpkin spice-scented, flavored and themed desires. The apple farms that appear around the twists and turns along Oak Glen road are best experienced with a hearty appetite.

At Willowbrook Apple Farm, visitors are greeted with samples of raw honey, apple salsa and freshly pressed cider.

Fall' in love with...

Lake Arrowhead: Outside: Hike to Aztec Falls or Heart Rock Inside: Belgian Waffle House at the Lake Arrowhead Village Live Oak Canyon Pumpkin Patch Riley Apple Farms Willowbrook Farms - Apple Farm Apple Tree Village - Shops and restaurants Oak Glen Preserve - 10 miles of trails

Smells like fall Instead of standing inside trying to unwind by sniffing an aroma-therapy candle, try breathing in the smell of cider personally pressed. At the apple farms the smell of baking collides with the fresh air and the earthy-sweet smell of the orchard.

Pick apples from monstrous and majestic 100-year-old trees to take home, or better yet, dip in caramel.

Willowbrook has been nominated

by USA Today as one of the best apple orchards in America, which owner Cheryl Swanson attributes to the unwinding experience coming to the farm gives people.

“What we try and do is give people what we call re-kindling your spirit,” Swanson says. “We give them that lift that you need after the grind of day-to-day.”

Fall is a new season outside and often a new season of life. Breathe deeply, relax and let fall in. ◆ A bucket of apples waits to be hand-cranked by visitors through a cider press.

Photos by Hannah Burnett

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Reclaiming the

DESERT

Written by Courtney Coleman

D

eser t. H idden beh i nd lush green golf courses, underneath turquoise pools and surrounding richly landscaped suburban neighborhoods of beautiful California, desert is everywhere. It is no secret California is experiencing a major drought and Californians are struggling to come to terms with the fact that a large part of the Golden State is a naturally dry, hot desert.

Sadly, many Californians do not understand just how dire the situation is. Peter LeBlanc, operations and maintenance technician for the Metropolitan Water District of

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Southern California, puts facts into perspective.

“Last year, to help us through the drought, we drafted on our storage a lot,” he says.

That storage includes local lakes and underground reservoirs. As the drought has continued, the water supply continues to be drafted from these emergency sources, but at some point, there will be nothing left from which to draw.

The Sierra Nevada snowpack runoff has long been a source of water for Californians during the summer, but as of this year the snowpacks are only at 5 percent of what is normally measured. The summertime water

supply has been reduced almost completely in just a few years.

Ian Tillen, senior geotechnical engineering technician, observes and tests soil compaction, a job that often requires water to compact soil.

“People should definitely be taking the drought more seriously,” he says. “I stopped watering my lawn a few months ago after going to the Sierras and seeing the nearly empty lakes and lack of snowpacks.”

Tillen has also seen how jobs are being, and will continue to be, affected by the drought.

“There will definitely be other jobs affected by the drought, anything from farm workers to recreational

river-rafting guides to restaurants that now make you specifically ask for water.”

Austin Cross, junior environmental science major at California Baptist University says, “Water has always seemed to be a ‘free’ thing to most people, but Southern California residents are learning quickly how much it really costs. The media has tricked Californians into thinking that taking less showers and watering lawns less is all people can do to help out with the drought.”

Before residents can tackle what needs to change, they first need to understand just how much water Californians use daily. According to a recent study conducted for The Los Angeles Times, San Diego County accounts for the most gallons of water used per capita at about 584 gallons daily. That’s more than what individuals in some countries use in a whole week.

Most of Californian’s daily water use goes toward flushing toilets, running faucets and landscaping.

With that understanding, it’s tempting to think the solution could lie in turning the faucet off while people brush their teeth, only

flushing when necessary and planting a few cacti, but Cross says there is more to be done.

“One of these actions is reducing the demand for beef,” Cross says.

“The cattle industry is one of the most water-demanding industries.”

According to LeBlanc, agriculture uses a large supply of water.

“Farmers have long-standing water rights,” LeBlanc says. “So what (the water district) will do is pay farmers to not grow their crops so we can have their water.”

Not letting food go to waste is a good idea, in general, but limiting beef consumption and being mindful of where the produce comes from is another step toward change.

“Southern Californians are living in a desert area,” Cross says. “This means we have to be extra careful how we use out water. Since the climate is hot most of the time, excess water evaporates quickly and is lost.”

People can be water-wise in their own ways – even small changes can add up to major impacts. Not leaving water running, taking shorter showers and only flushing the toilet when necessary are a few steps toward change.

More than anything, Southern Californians need to remind themselves that they don’t live in a lush, tropical climate. The more they live as if they do, the faster they dig a very deep hole for themselves.

Although, that might not be a bad idea. To build a well at least. ◆

Southern Californians need to remind themselves that they don’t live in a lush, tropical climate.

The Prado Dam Which holds back water that flows from the Prado River and spills into Green River, was recently updated to hold more runoff water. The update on this reservoir was from 498 feet to 505 feet and helped to preserve water in the habitats behind the dam.

Photo by Jared Overstreet

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Prayer journaling as a tool in deepening spiritual growth Written by Brooke Biddle

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edious: a word that comes to mind for many when talking about prayer journaling. However, what if journaling in its rawest form does not have a formula, but simply reflects one’s past and God’s faithfulness?

Seemingly tedious words on a page may be a radical tool and provide the spiritual discipline needed in deepening believers’ spiritual lives.

Psalm 40:5 says, “Many, Lord my God, are the wonders you have done, the things you planned for us. None can compare with you; were I to speak and tell of your deeds, they would be too many to declare.”

True followers of Jesus Christ cannot help but outwardly proclaim the wondrous deeds of the Lord in their lives. As we see in the Psalms, King David provides an example of prayer journaling in Scripture.

The words of believers today are not Godinspired, as Scripture is, but writing down thoughts and prayers allows believers to daily be reminded of God’s goodness.

“When I pray normally I forget things and do not clearly articulate what I want to say, but when I write, I can close my eyes and just let the words flow out as they come to mind,” says Jordan Stance, senior criminal justice major at California Baptist University. “It’s not a forced conversation with God, it’s just God speaking through 50 | PURSUIT

Photo by Lauren Shelburne

TRENDS

me, me hearing from God and letting my heart – and everything that’s in my heart and mind – flow out in unison with Christ.”

Aubrey Kerckhoff, senior early childhood studies major, says she enjoys journaling her prayers and looking back to see how God answers them. In addition to journaling, Kerckhoff keeps a prayer calendar.

“I write down everything I need to be praying for, like my residents and (Challenge at CBU) and my staff,” Kerckhoff says.

“Then I split it up pretty evenly between days just so I have some direction in the morning.”

Bryan Curtis, senior biology major, says believers often forget to be genuinely thankful to their Creator in prayer and journaling.

“We don’t really give credit to God even though we specifically ask him for things and we don’t take the time to praise him for that,” Curtis says.

Curtis says if he does not take time to remind himself why he is meditating on the word and journaling, there is no joy found in the task.

‘I don’t see God’s provision in my life if I don’t keep track of my prayers and praise.'

Bryan Curtis, senior biology major “I don’t see God’s provision in my life if I don’t keep track of my prayers and my praise," Curtis says. "If you do it legitimately it’s a joy, not a burden, because you see God’s actions in your life and that just pushes you toward godliness."

Jesus Christ’s purpose for his followers is to live in relation to him through the gift of salvation and growth in their knowledge of him. Prayer journaling can be a valuable tool for applying truths of faith to their lives.

“By prayer journaling, I am able to write down my dreams, my goals, ambitions, promises I have made to God, promises that God has made to me and just conversations that we have had together. I am able to go back and in the future see how God has worked in my life,” Stance says. ◆ PURSUIT | 51

GOTTA ‘EM ALL Written by Andria Garcia

T

he controller clicks as their thumbs move back and forth. Ding! Ding!

Ding! The soundtrack of the beloved childhood “Super Smash Bros.” video game fills the apartment.

Jake Fleming, senior engineering major, leans forward, concentrating his eyes on the screen. He tucks his feet underneath the couch as he focuses on his video game character. Ding! Ding! Ding! His thumbs press the buttons on his controller, but this time faster.

For Fleming, it depends on the genre of the game when it comes to keeping him entertained. In a role-playing game, it would be participating in the story that excites him, but in an artistic game, it would be exploring the world of the game.

“Games have always been part of my life,” Fleming says. “Games are the base of my social life and are the main way I connect to and relate to other people.”

Fleming and his friends explain that video games are a bonding experience, and “Super Smash Bros.” is their favorite to play as a group. The game on the Nintendo Wii U system gives eight people a chance to play simultaneously.

Fleming and Gunnar Bates, senior engineering major, have developed a

friendship around gaming.

The friends connect the wires from the Wii U system to their controllers. After playing for a couple hours it was time to charge the battery.

A piano ringtone from the “Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess” game suddenly began to play from Bates’ pocket.

“Zelda is part of my childhood memory,” Bates says. “It’s a very beautiful story that can be told through a song.”

Bates says Zelda is a blend between puzzle and action, which makes the game and story line more appealing for him. As a child, Bates became frustrated with the game because he would never achieve the level he wanted.

He explains that as he got older, a little bit of wisdom and a lot of perseverance helped him succeed.

“As an adult, I feel it’s important to play (video) games because it allows those of us who played these kinds of video games as kids to just indulge in some fun nostalgia as we sit down and enjoy a good classic game,” Bates says. “Similar to how people would enjoy a classic movie or book.”

In video games, players face challenges just like in everyday life. Some challenges are extremely difficult to overcome, but Fleming describes how important it is to complete the games he may have been ➤ Gunnar Bates and Jake Fleming, senior engineering majors, and Brent DeBord and Kameron Farmer, senior and junior health science majors, respectively, spend time playing video games together.

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Photos by Jared Overstreet

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Scott Liddell, senior exercise major, joins in on the video game craze of 'Super Smash Bros.' for Wii U. He plays with the original GameCube controller because of his familiarity with the directional pad since childhood.

unable to finish as a child in order to come full circle.

“A lot of the (video) games that people play when they were kids are left unfinished and going back to finish them just feels necessary,” Fleming says. “It just feels wrong to leave something unfinished. It’s like watching a good movie but never seeing the second half.”

Brent DeBord, senior health science major, is also part of their group of gaming friends. He grabs a white controller and makes room for himself on the couch.

Without a question, the others grab their controllers as well.

After choosing their characters, another battle begins.

“I’ve known Jake since elementary school,” DeBord says. “We have been good friends for a long time, so whether we play games together or not our friendship will continually grow.”

Although he and DeBord are very different, Fleming says playing these games makes them similar.

DeBord explains that he had the privilege of growing up with his friends 54 | PURSUIT

by playing “Pokémon” or “Super Smash Bros.” and continuing those friendships with those same games.

“Now when I play those games it brings back a little bit of the past and the memories of when we would stay up all night and talk about what we thought life was back then and what we thought our lives would look like in the future,” DeBord says.

Scott Liddell, senior exercise major, enters the apartment with his lunch from El Monte Grill. Liddell places his food on the table, grabs an extra controller near the game system and makes himself at home on the closest chair to him.

The friends in the living room discuss their video-game tactics. As soon as they press the start button on their controllers, the room fills with loud voices and clicking buttons. Ding! Ding! Ding! All eyes are focused on the screen once again.

Whether it is battling Pokémon, saving a princess or fighting with other characters, these sentimental video games create an open environment for friends to feel at home. ◆

Pursuit magazine is a student-produced publication of California Baptist University that works to utilize professional, balanced journalism to tell the stories of CBU’s community and the real-life, relevant factors that affect that community.

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Photo by Katie Ring

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