Feb. 7, 2013 issue by Pepperdine Graphic

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Volume XLIII, Issue 14 | February 7, 2013 | www.pepperdine-graphic.com » Meet the men’s tennis team’s internationally ranked transfer, Nino Alcantara, on B9.

Sophomores debut survey with impact By Falon Opsahl News Assistant

Succeeding after 75 years By Christopher Chen Staff Writer

Ever since its inception, Pepperdine has been involved in a perpetual balancing act. On one hand is the university’s mission to provide top-tier academics. On the other, however, is its affiliation to the Church of Christ and its founder’s vision to prepare students for lives of purpose, service and leadership. At different times, one was promoted over the other, said Gary Selby, director of the Center for Faith and Learning. Few schools manage to

IP closing in on new Shanghai director By Nate Barton Assistant News Editor

For the first time since he helped to found the program in 2008, Chris Van Velzer will not direct the Shanghai program for the spring semester, instead passing the baton to his wife and interim director Corrie Van Velzer. IP administrators have narrowed the selection process for a permanent director down to about three candidates, and a decision is expected to be made in April, said Director of Admissions and Student Affairs Jeff Hamilton. “All of them are very intriguing in different capacities,” Hamilton said. “Two of them are directly associated with the university. We do have one individual who works here currently that we’re all very familiar with, another who is an alumnus of the university and another who is at a renowned institution.” Chris Van Velzer reportedly accepted a position at the Center for International Education and Exchange, which is a “world-renowned institution

»See IP, A7

INDEX DPS Reports..A2 Calendar........A2 Editorial..........A8 Horoscopes....B7 Sports............B8

do both well, and historically, universities have lost their religious heritage as they developed their academic prestige. But in 1999, Pepperdine received a $2 million grant from the Lilly Foundation to create the Center for Faith and Learning on campus. The university then reshaped its mission statement to reflect its dedication to academic rigor and Christian ideals, and Pepperdine has since striven to advance in both, according to Selby and other administrators.

The ultimate goal, as outlined in President Andrew K. Benton’s 2010 paper, “Boundless Horizons,” is to establish Pepperdine as the leading Protestant liberal arts university. Pepperdine’s leadership wants the university to represent Protestants in the top 50 national universities much like how the University of Notre Dame represents Catholics, Selby said. “We admire Notre Dame

»See 75, A5

Results of the survey debuted at the Sophomore Lockin are likely to have a significant effect on campus. Sophomores who attended the lock-in event in the Caf on Jan. 18 were asked survey questions that would provide SGA representatives with quantifiable data, which will help SGA focus its efforts to pass resolutions that are most important to the student body, Sophomore Class President Molly Ingle said. In the past, survey questions have been too broad and resulted in vague responses, but the recent yes or no questions were more efficient and clearly depicted the voice of the students, Ingle said. The most influential questions on the survey included proposals for the installation of water filling stations, the implementation of a dead week before testing and the extended add/drop period. Ingle said she believes the survey results will help SGA representatives pass and implement resolutions through the administration. “Empirical evidence works wonders,” Ingle said.

Tour guides share tales “

We are very optimistic about the tentative installation of the water filling stations.

By Amy Fan Staff Writer

Campus tour guides introduce Pepperdine to visitors while reflecting on their own love for the school. Mondays through Fridays, mornings to afternoons, students can find smiling blue-shirted narrators leading crowds up the hills and through the buildings of Seaver College. These tour guides are not professionals sought out by the Office of Admission, nor are they faculty members. The Pepperdine campus tour guides are undergraduate students. To see a tour, prospective students, their families and visitors are asked first to schedule a tour online. The Office of Admission’s new system, Target X, allows prospective students to enroll automatically onto Pepperdine’s mailing list after signing up. According to senior intern Bailey Taylor, there’s a noticeable range of both people and levels of interest when they visit the school.

—Molly Ingle Sophomore Class President

”

Rebecca Herron / PHOTO EDITOR

AND TO YOUR RIGHT — Freshman Nicolas Gordon leads a 50-minute campus tour for the Office of Admission. Students typically receive three weeks of training before they can start working as a tour guide.

“Our tours range from oneon-one to large group tours of even 50 people,” Taylor wrote in an email. “You can get the sarcastic high school group

Women in Combat Should women be allowed to serve in combat positions alongside men?

»PERSPECTIVES, A9

that asks silly questions just to bug you, or you can get students who really blow you away and you know they are meant to come to Pepperdine.”

The set tour given to every group includes a trip to the Waves Cafe, the Sandbar, the HAWC and the

»See TOUR, A7

Lovey Dovey Explore your local options for making this Valentine’s Day a special one.

» LIFE & ARTS , B5

Likewise, concepts that are not generally supported by the student body can help SGA focus its efforts on aspects that are more important to students. “We are very optimistic about the tentative installation of the water filling stations,” Ingle said. “The SGA sustainability committee has been involved in the discussion between Pepperdine and the outside company looking to install. The stations may be installed as early as by the end of the month.” Junior Class President Wil Fisher said the survey at the Junior Town Hall on Tuesday will have a few questions that reflect those asked at the Sophomore Lock-in. “We are interested to see what members of our class

»See SOPHOMORE, A4

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NEWS

February 7, 2013

Honest mayor reveals past with ‘wiseguys’

ARIANA PATTERSON Staff Writer

Some teachers deserve a timeout

Mariella Rudi / NEWS EDITOR

MOB TALK — Former mayor of Fort Lee, N.J., Burt Ross (right), spoke at Payson last night in a packed Surfside Room of half students, half Malibuites, including Malibu Mayor Lou La Monte. The event was the first time in years that Ross publicly spoke about his time as a young mayor in the late 1970s who was bribed a half-a-million dollars by the Mafia and subsequently wore a wire for the FBI.

1/28/13 3:27 p.m. Incidents – Suspicious Circumstances Location: Seaver Drive Booth Summary: A Public Safety officer observed four individuals on a hillside above the Seaver entrance booth. The individuals stated that they were hiking and had identification with them. They reported that they had no affiliation with the university and were warned for trespassing on private property. 1/29/13 12:52 p.m. Traffic Related – Traffic Enforcement – Reckless Driving Location: Banowsky/John Tyler Intersection Summary: Public Safety received an anonymous report of an individual driving recklessly on campus. 1/29/13 1:51 p.m. Crimes – Trespassing

Location: Thornton Administration Center Summary: There was a report of a verbal altercation between a boyfriend and girlfriend. A student reported her boyfriend was refusing to leave. Public Safety warned the boyfriend of trespassing on private property and escorted him off campus. 1/30/13 11:22 a.m. Incidents – Heat and Smoke Alarms Location: Rockwell Academic Center Summary: A fire alarm smoke detector was activated. The building was evacuated. There was no fire, and the LA County Fire Department response was canceled. The cause was determined to be excessive steam from a food-serving tray left by catering services. 1/30/13 11:38 a.m. Crimes – Larceny/Theft – Theft from a Vehicle

Calendar THURSDAY Hula Lessons 9 – 10 p.m. Fitness Studio

FRIDAY 2013 Chinese New Year Celebration 6 p.m. LC150 Drescher SATURDAY Auditorium Saturday Cinema: Skyfall 7 – 9:30 p.m. Elkins Auditorium

MONDAY

TUESDAY Chinese Heritage Dinner 4:30 – 8:30 p.m. Waves Cafe

Zumba 5:30 – 6:20 p.m. Fitness Studio

Location: Seaver Drive Summary: A student reported observing a vehicle with a broken window. A Public Safety officer responded and contacted the registered owner and determined that the vehicle’s window was broken during an off-campus burglary. 1/30/13 2:16 p.m. Traffic Related – Hit and Run, Non-Injury Accident Location: Public Safety Lot Summary: A vehicle collided with a parked vehicle. A student reported returning to their vehicle and discovering new damage. The responsible party left no contact information at the scene. Minor damage was reported. 1/30/13 6:49 p.m. Incidents – Suspicious Person Location: School Of Law Summary: Public Safety officers responded to a report of a

suspicious person. The officers spoke with witnesses but could not locate the individual.

1/31/13 1:18 a.m. Fire/Hazards – Gas Leak inside a Structure Location: Drescher Student Housing Apartments Summary: Public Safety officers and the LA County Fire Department responded to a report of a carbon monoxide detector activation. FM&P detected a gas leak from behind a stove inside an apartment and remained on scene for repairs. 2/1/13 4:46 p.m. Fire/Hazards – Gas Leak inside a Structure Location: Cultural Arts Center Summary: There was a report of an odor of natural gas in a building. Public Safety officers and FM&P responded. The odor was determined to be the

fumes from a freshly painted student project that was carried through a nearby hallway. 2/3/13 3:07 a.m. Incidents – Disturbance – Loud Noise Location: Lovernich Student (Seaver) Apartments, A Block Summary: Public Safety officers responded to a loud music complaint and discovered an alcohol violation inside the student apartment. 2/4/13 10:06 a.m. Service Calls – Miscellaneous Service Call Location: FM&P Summary: Mail Services staff member reported a white powder leaking from a package. Public Safety determined that the powder was non-hazardous and was stored at Public Safety for the owner to retrieve.

WHAT’S BREAKING

The ‘Bu

World

Businesses remain open at Trancas

UK approves gay marriage equality

Thieves target electronics in Malibu

Skydiver fell faster than thought

Body of Missing Diver Found

Founder buys back Dell

Reports compiled from Malibu Patch

Reports compiled from BBC News

Because of the renovation at the Trancas Country Market in Western Malibu, several long-standing business are temporarily moving. Drill, Starbucks, Trancas Canyon Nursery, Sea Lily Malibu, Trancas Tailor and Cleaners and Postal Annex are open at temporary locations in the shopping center.

Thieves stole electronics from several places around Malibu this week. The first theft occurred at noon on Jan. 26, resulting in a missing laptop worth $1,500. The second was at 10 p.m. that same day resulting in $450 worth of stolen items. According to the Lost Hills Sheriff ’s Station, the investigation is ongoing, and residents should be aware of the recent thefts and take precautions.

According to the United States Coast Guard, snorkelers found the body of a 50-year-old diver on the north side of Santa Cruz Island on Friday afternoon. The man was reported missing about four hours before he was found. The name of the diver is being withheld until his next of kin is notified.

Parliament voted in favor of the Marriage Bill, which proposed the legalization of same-sex marriage, despite the opposition of nearly half the Conservative members. Prime Minister David Cameron said he thought the passing of the bill was “an important step forward” for society.

Austrian Felix Baumgartner fell faster during his space jump last October than originally thought. Analysis has revealed that the skydiver reached a speed of 843.6 mph — 10 mph more than initially reported. However, the jump altitude has been estimated down at 127,852 ft. from 128,100 ft. He leapt from a stratospheric balloon Oct. 14, 2012.

Michael Dell, founder of Dell computers, said he will buy back the company for $24.4 billion. Dell is the world’s No. 3 PC-maker and has made its founder among the richest men in America. Dell hopes to turn the tide against its rivals by competing with tablets and smartphones.

Students, get out your notebooks. We have a report on the oddest teacher behaviors going on in the country. A Colorado high school teacher is being investigated for posting some inappropriate photos on her public Twitter account. Carly McKinney, 23, allegedly posted pictures of herself that possibly show her smoking marijuana, and drinking alcohol, as well as posting other pictures of herself that were practically nude, according to the International Business Times. Some of her students felt that it was strange to see the photos of their teacher, and they preferred not to know about their teachers’ personal lives. I can’t disagree on that point — we have all thought at one point that our teachers’ first names were either “Mr.” or “Ms.” Surprisingly, some of her other students have started a Twitter account defending her — stating that she was simply practicing her First Amendment right. However, the First Amendment doesn’t draw a boundary of how far is too far — especially for teachers. Teachers are supposed to act as positive role models to their students, whether they like it or not. But, are they only obligated to act that way when they’re at work? She is after all, not only a teacher. She is also a young woman. She did not take those pictures and engage in the activities as seen in her pictures on campus. So, where exactly should the line be drawn? Fox News conducted an interview with radio talkshow host Michael Graham and civil litigation attorney Anahita Sedaghatfar. Both argued that nobody, not even teachers, has a right to free speech without some sort of consequences for what they say and how they express themselves. Sedghatfar stated in her interview with Fox that if a teacher’s social media posts cause a “substantial disruption to the teaching environment” then it can override the First Amendment. McKinney is on paid leave right now. Or as I like to call it, teacher detention. Let’s hope she thinks about her actions during her time-out. And yet another teacher is under fire for a regrettable social media post. Ohio middle school teacher Melissa Cairns is on unpaid leave for posting a photo on Facebook of a group of students with duct tape across their mouths. The caption read, “Finally found a way to get them to be quiet!” according to ABC News. Cairns initially had a piece of tape to fix a student’s binder, but when the student put the tape over her mouth, other students joined in and put tape on their mouths. Then, the students asked Cairns to snap a picture. This “joke” may potentially cost Cairns her job. In the age of social media, how do we really define privacy? Cairns’ incident seems to be more of a technicality issue than an ethical one. From racy Twitter pictures to a “funny” Facebook post, it’s becoming increasingly evident that teachers ought to walk on eggshells with their social media. g

ariana.patterson@pepperdine.edu

NEWS

February 7, 2013

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Records from 70s disappear professor who had left Linfield the previous semester. The sudden and haphazard In the spring of 1974, Dick arrangement of the program Hughes went to Greece for a led Hughes to worry that probsemester to study lems could arise if anthropology, but he ever needed to a snag has come request records up as he is applyfrom Pepperdine. ing for master’s When he graddegree programs uated from Lin— Pepperdine field in 1975, his has no record of transcript showed Hughes or of a credit from PepGreek program perdine; he still, ever existing. however, needed Dick Hughes During that the records from Blogger and Journalist, Lost from Pepperdine time, Pepperdine Pepperdine itself Records kept no records to show which of non-degree -seeking stu- classes were taken. With the dents, and Hughes — who was advent of computerized record completing his undergraduate keeping, such a problem will studies at Linfield College in likely never present itself again, Oregon — was participating in Bryan Reeder, associate regwhat he thought was an official istrar in the Office of Student Pepperdine program, led by a Information and Records Ser-

By Patrick Rear News Assistant

vices, said. “Now, when a student applies for admission, a PeopleSoft record is created. When attending classes, records are transferred from the Office of Admission to the Registrar’s office. Even non-degree students are transcripted,” Reeder said. Though at the time, Pepperdine’s policy was not to keep records of non-degree seeking students, the computerized system makes it easy to do so, and students are prevented from slipping through the cracks because it is impossible to register for classes or pay tuition without a record in PeopleSoft. All coursework taken at Pepperdine is added to a student’s degree audit report, which is an immediate document listing all graduation requirements.

Students and academic advisers can check the DAR on WaveNet at any time to ensure the records are accurate, and as courses are taken, requirements are checked off the list. Before graduation, a student’s adviser will check the DAR to make sure all graduation requirements have been met and inform the student of anything that needs to be done. For students needing to transfer credit to or from another institution, the computerized record keeping system simplifies that process as well. During the admission process, when students submit a transcript from another college or university, it is scanned in to Nolij, Pepperdine’s imaging system. All of the transcripts stored in Nolij are used to evaluate transfer credit to Pepperdine

and provide an additional record that can be checked with the DAR, if necessary. For non-degree-seeking students or others who need to transfer course credit from Pepperdine to another institution, a transcript is created for them to take back to their home college or university. In both cases, when academic records are needed to apply to graduate school or a job, students must request an original transcript from each educational institution where they have taken coursework, since their final transcript from Pepperdine will only indicate that coursework was done at another college, not the specifics of what was completed. This is the problem in Hughes’ case, as Pepperdine can not verify the records from Linfield, and no such records

were kept here. “We can’t verify if Mr. Hughes has transfer credit from Pepperdine without him sending us his Linfield transcript,” Reeder said in response to Hughes’ situation. “FERPA protection prevents us from requesting his records.” The Registrar’s office exists to keep track of all academic records at Pepperdine, and it has made an attempt to put the best tools in the hands of students and advisers to make sure records are accurate. “Students don’t need to worry; we are very scrupulous in our record keeping. We double- and triple-check everything,” Reeder said. “Students have no reason to fear their records will be missing or inaccurate.”

suggest the program is do- program, known as EDOL, ing some kind of innovative offers flexible schedules for programing,” said students across the Margaret Weber, U.S. Its strong dean of GSEP. support from adPepperdine ’s ministration and program has dethe emphasis it veloped signifiplaces on ethical cantly since it bevalues makes the gan 25 years ago program unique. at GSEP. OrigiThe program also nally the program stresses creativity was called Instiand innovation. tutional ManSchmiedagement, and er-Ramirez said June Schmiederfocused primarily the global emRamirez, Ph.D. Chair of the Organion education in phasis is what zational Leadership both kindergarsets the program Program ten through 12th apart. grade and higher education. “When you look at the enCurrently, however, the tire world [and] the issues that program is more focused on stress strong ethical values, we organizational leadership as stress those in our program,” a whole, including nonprofit, she said. business and entrepreneurship. That perspective also atShe went on to say that the tracts students.

“A student told me that they went to the Internet and looked for programs that looked for global themes; they felt they would get to know more about countries outside the U.S.,” said Schmieder-Ramirez. “As part of coursework, students go to Belize, China, India and Argentina for a hands-on global experience.” Students are also able to participate in a domestic aspect of leadership as well. Dean Weber went on to comment on a unique opportunity the program offers, where students visit Washington, D.C., and meet with legislative staff and many U.S. Government departments such as the Department of Education. Students are able to talk about issues of leadership that affect leaders and those issues that are important in regards

to leadership with people in Washington. The faculty of the EDOL program seek to ensure the relevancy of course work to the real world, according to the official press release from the university. They place an emphasis on providing the students with a skill set that will benefit them in the workplace so they are able to bring value to their organizations. Schmieder-Ramirez said students who graduate from the program have gone on to become presidents of universities, CEOs, leaders of non-profits and even heads of medical organizations. “We encourage our students to do original research. Some of them have gone on to turn their work into books, and we are very proud of that.”

patrick.rear@pepperdine.edu

Doctoral programs ranked No. 17 By Rebecca Herron Photo Editor

The Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership program at Pepperdine’s Graduate School of Education and Psychology was ranked No. 17 out of 49 universities in the nation for 2012, according to Leadership Excellence magazine. Dr. June Schmieder-Ramirez, chair of the Organizational Leadership program, said the ranking is a great step for the program and GSEP. “It means a great deal, because it shows that others have considered us strong in vigor,” Schmieder-Ramirez said. According to their website, Leadership Excellence was founded on the ideal to “redefine how businesses were conducted, how people were

motivated and how successes were achieved” through their monthly publication. This year, they evaluated more than 1,000 organizations including large and small businesses, universities, government and military entities, as well as various non-profits. Pepperdine’s recognition as a nationally ranked program is significant for the overall development of the program. Seven criteria are used to evaluate the quality and quantity of the programs: vision and mission; design, content and curriculum; involvement and participation; measurement and accountability; presenter, presentations and delivery; take-home value and outreach. “Any time a program receives national recognition it usually suggests a high level of academic quality; it may also

rebecca.herron@pepperdine.edu

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NEWS

February 7, 2013

Mailroom adjusts procedures By Arthur Adamian Staff Writer

Fall semester was witness to long lines at the Sandbar and many frustrated students waiting for their books and packages to arrive. Spring semester has been different. So far, the mailroom in the Sandbar has seen shorter lines, and for a time, package scanning stations were available. Many of the changes occurred under the supervision of Stan Jones, manager of Mail and Automation Services and John Carper, director of Mail Receiving Services. The first issue that was addressed was the long lines and waiting periods students faced during the fall semester. Jones and Carper said that the influx of about 200 new students in the first weeks of school strained Mail Services. Carper also said that Mail Services was not informed of the increase in student size

until August. “There was about a 20 percent increase in parcels and a vast increase in media mail,” Jones said. Media mail includes those class materials that students buy after the first day of school. Another problem was confusion over the arrival of packages. When a package has arrived, Jones said the Mail Services turnaround time is about three hours. In July, Mail Services swapped the standard pink slips in mailboxes that students would switch for packages to an instant, email-alert system. By the first day of school, however, the new system was coupled with long lines in the Sandbar. The average wait time to pick up a package was around an hour and 15 minutes, according to a Graphic article in September. Since then, Mail Services hired more student workers

and opened up two temporary scanning stations across from the pick-up door in the Sandbar. Mail Services also opened up facilities in Central Shipping and Receiving. Mail Services’ hours have also extended to 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and it is now also open on Saturdays. The main challenge for Mail Services is meeting the needs of students in the August and January without spending an

think of the dead week proposal and extended add/drop period. The sophomore SGA representatives do great work, and we are excited to help them out,” Fisher said. Senior Class President Scott Cowie said the Senior Town Hall survey will likely fo-

cus on policy-making issues. Some of these questions will include asking seniors their opinions about the vagueness of Pepperdine’s alcohol policy, the new smoking policies and smoker areas, and the difficulty of balancing class and internships because of the times upper-division classes are held.

arthur.adamian@pepperdine.edu

PHOTOS BY David Hutchinson

MAIL TIME — Students and staff work in the mailroom in the Sandbar and Central Shipping and Receiving. Management has its extended hours this year.

SOPHOMORE: SGA plans surveys FROM A1

exorbitant amount of money to do so, Carper said. An increase in resources would require funding that comes out of students’ pockets, and the only time Mail Services needs an expansion of resources is the first two weeks of school.

According to Freshman Class President Jackson Esker, the freshman SGA representatives are still preparing the surveys for their town hall. They are not yet sure if they will include questions similar to those the sophomore representatives asked at the lock-in. g

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February 7, 2013

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75: Benton continues legacy FROM A1

for its national reputation as an excellent faith-based institution with high academic standards,” Provost Darryl Tippens said. “We share that goal.” The Center for Faith and Learning has worked with other offices and schools at Pepperdine on several initiatives toward integrating faith and learning over the past decade, Selby said. He presented a new proposal, “Heart, Soul, Strength, and Mind,” at the Sept. 5 President’s Briefing, with a list of possible programs to promote Pepperdine’s Christian mission. The programs that will be enacted depend on funding, but one, the Spiritual Life Committee, will begin meeting this spring. The purpose of this committee is to consolidate the various faith programs in order to create and implement a “university-wide vision for spiritual formation at Pepperdine,” Selby said. The committee will include 15 representatives from different branches of Pepperdine, such as Pepperdine’s Graduate School of Education and Psychology. Selby’s proposal builds upon work done since 1999, starting with the founding of the Center for Faith and Learning. That was the year the Board of Regents approved the new mission statement: “Pepperdine is a Christian university committed to the highest standards of academic excellence and Chris-

tian values, where students are strengthened for lives of purpose, service and leadership.” In 2001, Pepperdine established the University Chaplain’s Office to provide pastoral care to students, teachers and staff. It also coordinates special events such as mediation groups as well as Thanksgiving and Easter

“

Since its founding in 1937, Pepperdine has had a mixed relationship with the Church of Christ due in part to its founder’s approach toward the role of faith and the university. —Richard Hughes Church historian and former professor

”

worship services. In 2002, the center established the annual new faculty retreat so the faculty could “explore their roles as Christian teachers and scholars.” To help enforce the duality of academics and faith, Pepperdine established the Nootbaar Institute for Law, Religion, and Ethics in 2008. The institute allows students to explore the intersection between law and religion. More recently in January 2011, Graziadio School students formed the Graziadio Christian Society. Its mission is “to serve as a community for business students devoted to living a Christ-filled life, preserving values in business

Batsell Baxter

1937 - 1939

Hugh M. Tiner

1939 - 1957

M. Norvel Young

1957 - 1971

William Banowsky

1971 - 1978

Howard A. White

1978 - 1985

David Davenport 1985 - 2000

Andrew K. Benton 2000 - Present

and fostering spiritual growth through fellowship.” This mission has thus far led to a fairly devout campus, according to statistics provided by Pepperdine’s Office of Admission. More than 65 percent of Pepperdine students are Christian, and more than 13 percent are Church of Christ. Pepperdine’s leadership has striven to have at least 50 percent of its faculty members be Church of Christ since the late 1990s, according to church historian and former professor Richard Hughes. Approximately 29 percent of the current faculty are Church of Christ, according to 2012 statistics from the Office of Institutional Effectiveness. Despite the advancements made in recent years, Pepperdine has had an inconsistent history when it comes to implementing religious policies. Since its founding in 1937, Pepperdine has had a mixed relationship with the Church of Christ due in part to its founder’s approach toward the role of faith in the university, Hughes said. The ambiguity of Pepperdine’s affiliation with the Church of Christ led to much disagreement over whether or not Pepperdine should strengthen or weaken its religious ties. When Batsell Baxter became the first president of Pepperdine’s campus in 1937, he emphasized the themes found in Christianity, Hughes said. The paradigm once again shifted when Earl V. Pullias was president and academia

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became the focus of Pepperdine in 1940. Many of the faculty members he hired were of multiple religious traditions. Then, in an attempt to bind Pepperdine to the Church of Christ, Pepperdine’s board of trustees, who were all Church of Christ members, chose M. Norvel Young to become Pepperdine’s president in 1957. As the new president, Young was not only tasked with rebuilding Pepperdine’s bonds with the Church of Christ, but also with rebuilding the faculty and creating a stable financial base for the university, Hughes said. Young decided to resolve two of the three problems simultaneously by hiring administrators and faculty with close ties to the Church of Christ, thus rebuilding the faculty and Pepperdine’s bonds with the Church of Christ. He attempted to further rebuild Pepperdine’s religious affiliation by enhancing Pepperdine’s Bible lectureship, which was designed for members of the Church of Christ. When William S. Banowsky became president in 1971, he broadened Pepperdine’s base beyond the Church of Christ to include people who cared about American ideals and conservative values, Hughes said. Only after David Davenport became president in 1985 did Pepperdine begin to shift its focus back to faith. “We are now in a position where we think we can do both,” Selby said. g

christopher.chen@pepperdine.edu

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NEWS

February 7, 2013

Alumni stick to their roots By Olivia Womack Staff Writer

With the sunny weather, the beach within walking distance and the quiet Malibu surroundings, who would ever want to leave Pepperdine? Alumni come back in large numbers to work for the university, and administrators and faculty chairs regularly recruit alumni because they generally share the university’s vision, according to Rick Marrs, dean of Seaver College. The university particularly seeks those affiliated with the Church of Christ, but alumni applicants must still be as qualified as any other candidate. Many faculty and students said they believe the Church of Christ affiliation and the sense of family at the school contribute to the high numbers of alumni employees. “Pepperdine is so small, and everyone is so connected that it feels like a big family,” junior Shelby Jones Jolivet said. Jolivet truly knows the meaning of family at Pepperdine; her grandfather, Dr. Ira Jolivet, is an associate professor of religion, and her mom, Tabatha Jones Jolivet, is an alumna and the associate dean for Student Affairs. The Jolivets moved from Texas to California when Shelby was 2 years old. The purpose of the move was to be closer to family and to go to school at Pepperdine, where Tabatha’s father had just been given a teaching position. “When I came to Pepperdine as a transfer, it was a fresh start for our family, and it holds a special place in my heart,” Tabatha said. She wound up working at the university as the dean of students and assistant director of Campus Life before making the move to her current position. Tabatha is one of the hundreds of alumni who have come back to work for Pepperdine after graduation. “Around 450 alumni from across Pepperdine’s five schools are listed in the alumni database as currently employed by Pepperdine University,” according to the Seaver College Alumni Affairs staff. That number may be slightly lower because the staff said they are sometimes unaware when someone leaves their job at Pepperdine. Tabatha and her father are also indicative of the Pepperdine community because they are members of the Church of Christ. “The Church of Christ aspect on campus adds to the family feel,” Shelby said. “It is cool that I can learn from my professors in a classroom setting, but then I can also worship with them on Sundays.” Dr. Christina Littlefield, assistant professor of communication and religion at Seaver College, is another alumna and Church of Christ faculty member. “I was an opportunity hire,” Littlefield said, meaning she was an opportune applicant who could work in both the religion and communication departments. Female Church of Christ professors in religion are rare, and Littlefield is one of only two women in the division, along with Professor Kindalee DeLong. Opportunity hires are faculty members

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RELIGION: - Ray Carr - Ron Cox - Kindalee DeLong - Chris Doran - Christina Littlefield - Dan Rodriguez - Luke Tallon

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are Church of Christ or come from an underrepresented group — like female professors in the religion department. “From time to time we have been provided special funds to hire these stellar candidates,” said Marrs. Littlefield does not believe she was shown any favoritism, though. “I was assured if I were not a top-notch candidate, I would not be given the job,” Littlefield said. It is the policy of the university to hire only members of the Church of Christ for its Religion Division. The other faculty and staff do not have to be Church of Christ, though many are. “Church of Christ candidates who are outstanding academically and attuned to the mission of the university can help us again maintain and articulate our historic relationship with our Church of Christ heritage,” Marrs said. According to the Pepperdine Office of Admission, 13 percent of the student body are members of the Church of Christ. “It was an odd transition from student to professor,” Communication Professor Caitlin Lawrence said. As an alumna of the university and Church of Christ member, she said she does not believe she is shown any favoritism, but as a new hire she was, “more comfortable than other new faculty members, and it was easy to ask for things,” because she knew the school already.

INFORMATION COMPILED BY Olivia Womack

So, does coming back to teach make the alumni professors miss student life? “I like the privileges that come with being a professor,” Littlefield said. “I can still learn and teach, and the parking is a lot better.” Other professors agree that they do not miss being a student at Pepperdine. “When I hear my students talk about their lives outside the classroom, it brings back fond memories,” Theresa de los Santos, communication professor and alumna, said. “But Pepperdine undergrads work hard and do a lot. I am happy to have done it once!” De los Santos also said she wouldn’t call it favoritism, regarding her hiring and alumna status. Many current Pepperdine students said they love the sense of family and closeness on campus. “I like having alumni as professors because they can relate to us,” junior Noah Park said. “It is nice to know that they have been through what we have to go through.” Park said he has class with four professors this semester, and two of them are alumni. There are many other alumni who stay involved with the university in ways other than working at the school. “Alumni are always willing to give back to Pepperdine because they value what Pepperdine gave them during their years at the school,” said Maxime van den Berg, a junior and Student Alumni Association member. “They offer help, advice, possible employment opportunities and internships.”

Students say they are glad there is such a strong connection with alumni. “Getting to know alumni and seeing how they stay involved on campus is something I believe is fairly unique to the Pepperdine community,” Shelby said. But how does she feel about being in a family of Waves? “I appreciate them more now that I am more comfortable and feel more at place at school,” Shelby Jones Jolivet said. “I didn’t necessarily like it as much when I first started here.” Her mom and grandfather said they enjoy it too. “It is nice to have some family on campus to come check on you,” Ira Jolivet said. He has Shelby as a student in his Religion 102 course this semester, and he said he could not be happier about it. Ira Jolivet said he is cautious to treat her like any other student and may even be a little harder on her. Shelby said she is happy to have her grandfather as a professor this year. “Pops is a lot more difficult as a professor than I expected him to be and I don’t like it, but his class is interesting,” she said. With such a strong family connection and love of the school, will she follow in her mom’s footsteps and work for the university after graduation? She rolled her eyes and said, “Absolutely not.” g

olivia.womack@pepperdine.edu

NEWS

February 7, 2013

TOUR: Showing off FROM A1

I’ve also been asked which species of tree it is by the Caf — more than once, actually. —Caroline Roemer Junior, Campus Tour Guide

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out to prospective students and show how unique Pepperdine is.” One of Roemer’s favorite parts of tours is the questions. “I have received the most random questions on tours,” Roemer wrote. “It’s common to be asked if we have a football team, [and] how rigorous the academics are, but I’ve also been asked which species of tree it is by the Caf — more than once, actually — and which celebrities I’ve seen. Very often I’m asked about ‘Zoey 101.’ Regardless, it’s always a fun experience to meet

Managing Editor

Rebecca Herron / PHOTO EDITOR

TOUR DE FRANCE— Freshman Danielle Shilling shows Smothers Theatre to prospective students on a campus tour. People on tours are often impressed with the breathtaking views of campus.

the new people who come to visit campus.” Although the work is fun and refreshing, the process of receiving the job is challenging because of the importance of the work. “Applying for the Office of Admission is an intimidating process,” Taylor wrote. “We had to learn a part of the tour script and went through an interview process. We know that it’s an important job for the university because most prospective families only will come into contact with the 28 students who work within the office.”

Senior Brooklin Nash, an intern at the Office of Admission and copy editor for the Graphic, explained that the training takes three weeks and that they look for students who have been involved with leadership roles and team experiences. “While public speaking skills are important for giving tours, they are not necessarily given the most weight,” Nash wrote. “Instead, we look at the role a student worker could play and what they have to bring to our team.” A common question for a tour guide is part joke, part

serious inquiry: How do students find the time to study on a campus as beautiful as Pepperdine? “Whenever I hear this, I smile to myself because I know I am blessed to go to school at such a beautiful place, but I also know that within the next 50 minutes I am getting the opportunity to open their eyes to what Pepperdine really has to offer to them,” Taylor wrote. “Every time I give a tour, I fall in love with Pepperdine all over again, and that is the blessing of being a tour guide.” amy.fan@pepperdine.edu

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In a luncheon Monday at the downtown Jonathan Club, Pepperdine University President Andrew K. Benton unveiled an open letter to local college and university leaders. The 30-page letter was created by the National Commission on Higher Education Attainment, of which Benton is a vice chair. Benton, whose vice chair position represents all private and independent colleges and universities, hosted the meeting to discuss strategies to increase student retention and graduation success. “The purpose of Monday’s meeting was to ‘roll out’ the letter on the West Coast,” Benton wrote in an email. “The first such effort was in New York City last week.” The open letter’s focus was on the issue of attainment on college campuses. It notes that too much potential is lost by students who do not make it to graduation. The letter offers several solutions, including increased flexibility and cost-effectiveness of classes as well as better use of data to help students in need of extra assistance. About two dozen college and university leaders from the greater LA area attended the meeting. This included the presidents of Harvey Mudd, Loyola Marymount, Pitzer, Cal Lutheran, Biola, Whittier College, LaVerne, Scripps, UC Irvine, UC Riverside, and Moorpark among others.

Benton said it is important to have the opportunity to meet with others involved in the project. “Each of us is engaged with one association or another, but seldom do those who represent Southern California institutions — public, independent, small and large — spend much time together,” Benton wrote. “It is important to know one another and to support one another.” This opportunity was useful, according to Benton. However, the real value in the meeting rests in seeing these ideas in the letter executed. “This meeting went well, but we will know that for sure when we observe direct engagement on the issue of student success and attainment, school by school,” Benton wrote. The NCHEA will have another regional event in Austin, Texas, but Benton’s next gathering is in March when he will serve on a panel in Washington, D.C., at the American Council of Education’s annual meeting. Despite working on attainment issues in broader strokes for campuses across the U.S., Benton also sees areas for Pepperdine to grow. “At Pepperdine, our graduation rates are strong, but I see room for improvement, and we will work on that.”

andrew.kasselmann@pepperdine.edu

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FROM A1

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institution for international study abroad and exchanges.” Hamilton praised Van Velzer’s decision, saying it was a “step up.” The position requires unique qualifications, Hamilton said. One of the most important traits is knowledge of the region and the ability to work with students and staff as a leader. “Of course the ability to speak the language is highly valued, just because it makes you more relatable to individuals in that host culture,” Hamilton said. “We do have an excellent program staff that’s already there — our associate director, William, and our program assistant, Gigi, who have been with the program since the beginning. They, as well, are Chinese nationals, and they are really well connected.” A director should interact directly with students, inspiring them to experience the native culture, sophomore Mitch Bennett said. “We want to see a director who is invested in the students,” Bennett said. “The new director should be focused on making sure that the sophomores who chose

to study in Shanghai have the best time of their lives. Ideally we would like to see a director who is fluent in Mandarin and English, has connections in China, knows the city of Shanghai well, understands the Pepperdine culture and works to grow and expand the program. Most of all everyone just wants a director who will be personable and present in the lives of students.” Bennett said the transition has been difficult for students who knew Chris Van Velzer in previous semesters. “The change has been rough for those of us who are going through it right now,” Bennett said. “The interim director, Corrie, has been key in assisting the change, though. Pepperdine students see the change as inevitable and unfortunate but are all keeping high spirits. It seems that everyone is excited to see what will happen next.” Hamilton said exposure is a very desirable trait for a Shanghai director. “From my perspective, another thing that makes a director a strong one is a breadth of experience,” Hamilton said. “Not necessarily time, but someone who has seen different places, been differ-

ent places, has lived in different places. Someone who has formed their own opinions of the world based on their exposure to it. If someone has spent time in China (specifically Shanghai) and knows that culture better, that’s something that’s going to come across as a strong candidate as well. Of the program itself Hamilton said it’s been a smooth operation. “It’s been running successfully; the enrollment has been increasing steadily since its inception,” Hamilton said. “More and more students are going in the summer.” Student opinions are an integral part of the decision-making process, Hamilton said. “That’s the exciting part about it: We truly do value the thoughts and opinions and feedback of everyone. We’re not trying to make decisions from the ivory tower — we’re trying to get down and see how this person relates with everybody at the university, someone who really resonates with the students. Our goal is that we choose an individual who resonates the greatest.”

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academic buildings. The personality of the tour group, however, is what distinguishes successful tours from the dull ones. Junior Caroline Roemer started working as a tour guide during her second semester of her first year at Pepperdine and shared that she likes the versatility of the information given during each tour. “That’s one of my personal favorite parts about the tour, being able to share my experience in Florence, the clubs I’ve been in, opportunities I’ve received through the Social Science division,” Roemer wrote. “I think it’s things such as these that really stand

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PERSPECTIVES February 7, 2013

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GRACE STEARNS Staff Writer

Completing college with no regrets Dear Grace, I am a second-semester senior and am trying to finish up my Malibu and LA bucket list. Do you have any specific recommendations about things to do or places to see before I graduate? Sincerely, YOLO Dear YOLO, Ah yes, the College Bucket List — we all have one. Whether your list centers on hiking to the Hollywood sign, rollerblading in Venice or spotting Johnny Depp in the Malibu Ralphs, it can be shocking how quickly four monotonous, isolated and unbearably uneventful years can fly past before one is able to accomplish any of these vital tasks. What’s left then but to carpe diem and make the most of these few fleeting months before inevitable economic demise and social stagnation sets in post-April 27. Here are some essential SoCal experiences you might look into before the dark day dawns: No. 1: Interact with the Malibu homeless community SOS (Standing on Stone) is an incredible opportunity through which Pepperdine students might make a lasting difference in the lives of those “less fortunate.” Indeed, all involved parties might glean invaluable personal and intellectual compensation through the verbal exchange of differing life experiences. That being said, why stop with SOS? Delve further and take in a homeless junkie in an effort to turn a slight profit in this weakened real estate market. No. 2: Conduct a SoCal Social Experiment Leave your purse or wallet in the back of a cab when traveling through West Hollywood. Having done so myself just one year ago, I cannot articulate precisely how rewarding it was to witness the extent of human goodness; I received my wallet in the mail two months later containing nothing but my PinkBerry punch card and 11 cents. A crumpled purple sticky note read: “Found on the corner of 107th and South Wilmington.” For those of you who don’t know where that is, Google Watts, South Central. That’s over 20 miles from where I lost it. God is good. No. 3: Urban Hiking With gas prices as they are, one may feel discouraged at the mere thought of having to drive at least 35 minutes to reach the closest LA attractions. Why not hop on one of the many metro buses seen veering wildly into the bus lane at the foot of John Tyler Drive? Can’t afford the $1.50 commuter fare? Simply take to the streets on foot. It only takes 11 hours and 49 minutes to reach Griffith observatory from the Malibu McDonald’s sans vehicle. Not only will this activity likely give you a chance to check No. 1 off of this very list, it is also highly probable that you will end up alone on a street corner in one of the neighborhoods mentioned in No. 2. Three birds, one Los Angeles Metro odyssey. g

grace.stearns@pepperdine.edu

Sacha Irick /ASSISTANT ART EDITOR

STAFF EDITORIAL We accept the award for best of the worst With great honor, we, the community of Pepperdine University, accept this award of being the best A+ School for B students. After many years of being featured in the top rankings of most beautiful schools in the nation, we proudly accept this new award as recognition that we are more than the school with the most gorgeous campus (with beautiful individuals — can’t forget to mention that). What an honor — to be best after the Ivy Leagues. We can now understand how Hollywood actors and actresses feel when they win an Oscar for Supporting Actor or Actress. Pepperdine wins the award of best supporting school in America. Does a B grade really reflect the values, morals and education of an institution, or is it just a label that must be created to fulfill the urge to give status and rankings to everything? For these past few days, Pepperdine students spammed Facebook and Twitter with The Huffington Post article, “11 Best Colleges for ‘B Students,’” based off the US News & World Report. U.S. News described these schools as strongly rated institutions that also “accept a significant number of students with nonstratospheric transcripts.” The methodology used

for creating the list of colleges includes being in the top three quarters of their categories in the 2013 edition of Best Colleges, being in or slightly below the top half of their categories of the 2013 ranking, having an average freshman-retention rate and of course, accepting a meaningful proportion of non-“A” students. But in short, are these parameters a determining factor of who Pepperdine students are? Why is the “B” factor a relevant issue for most people? As an institution that prides itself for its focus in building a close community and being a small, private, Christian university, we understand and know the commitment that our faculty and students have to create deeper relationships that goes beyond the classroom. By being in a small community and having considerably smaller average classroom size than most schools, Waves students are able to connect with professors in a meaningful and impactful way. It is common to find faculty and students chatting outside of the classroom about career opportunities, values, hobbies, internships, foreign programs and other topics not related to school. Rather than having a common professor-student

relationship, it is not unusual to see this become a mentor-mentee bond. In fact, professors often open their homes to have students over for breakfast or lunch while celebrating the end of a great semester. Professors truly invest in getting to know the students for who they are as an individual rather than just seeing them based on their academic performance. Because of this, students at Pepperdine are perhaps more likely to receive a more personal and possibly more impressive letter of recommendation than they might receive from a professor to whom they are merely a number in a vast auditorium of students. Take, for instance, our commitment to our international programs. The Institute of International Education ranked Pepperdine as the No. 2 school with the highest number of students who study abroad for a full academic year. In today’s business world, the globe is becoming flatter, and thus, the need to understand diversity and different cultures is imminent. Pepperdine’s emphasis on the IP department is a clear understanding of the importance of leaving this Malibu bubble to explore new territories. Also, Pepperdine provides

great financial assistance to help students pay for their education. Approximately 75 percent of our student body receive some type of financial assistance through scholarships, loans or work study. Many students choose to be Waves because they get better financial opportunities than other institutions can offer to them. On a campus where fulltime students have time to take 15 to 18 units every semester, where many have two to three jobs on campus in addition to internships, mission trips and even have time to participate in Songfest, we understand why many consider Pepperdine’s students to be overachievers. If that’s what it is to be considered a “B” student, we definitely should appreciate our lives because we have bigger #pepperdineproblems. B is for betterment, and we can only hope that we will continue to balance our over-commitment to do what we like to do, where our passions really are. Perhaps next year, we will become the average of the best, but for now, I guess we need to content ourselves in being the worst of the best, and the best of the almost best.

Letter to the Editor

I read with interest the column about the use of technology in the classroom. It seems to me that technology is neither good nor bad but a tool that can be used to aid or hinder learning. Both student and professor must be willing to use it to enhance the educational experience and not employ it as a distraction. It is also important to look at the roles the professor and the student play in the learning experience. As a professor, it is my job to present material in an engaging way so my students can learn. The problem is that not every student connects in the same way. Many of us try to use a variety of methods, but there will be days our chosen

method(s) will not reach every student. However, if my method on any given day does not reach everyone, I do not think that is an excuse for the student to check email or surf the web. The student also has a role in the learning process. It is the student’s job to come to class prepared and alert. I would also encourage students to examine their expectations of the learning process. Some students have told me that I am not entertaining enough. I am a professor and not an entertainer, so if I am expected to entertain rather than teach, I am doomed from the start. I am one of the professors who ask that students take

notes by hand, turn off their computers and phones, and put them away unless a day’s class plan requires all of us to be online. In addition to learning content, I want my students to learn interpersonal skills. You can best learn those skills by becoming involved with the teacher and your classmates — without distracting technology. These interpersonal skills are as important as critical thinking, good writing or complex content. We all must master these to communicate effectively in the workplace and at home. To prepare our students for lives of purpose, service and leadership, I must teach them how to listen, share and interact.

In closing, I hope that all of us will use technology appropriately, and we will also recognize our role in the teaching and learning process. It is not all about content. The interactional process may be the most important thing learned. Dr. Emily Scott-Lowe, Social Sciences

Executive Editor Nikki Torriente Managing Editor Andrew Kasselmann Creative Director Alexander Hayes News Editor Mariella Rudi Assistant News Editor Nate Barton News Assistants Falon Opsahl Patrick Rear Sports Editor HuiWen Chen Assistant Sports Editor Stasia Demick Sports Assistant Marissa Baly Perspectives Editor Allegra Hobbs Assistant Perspectives Editor Breanna Grigsby Perspectives Assistants Elisabeth Armstrong David Hutchinson Life & Arts Editor Benjamin Kryder Assistant Life & Arts Editor Danielle DiMeglio Life & Arts Assistants Danielle Accovelli Chirag Patel Page Designers Esther Kang Ellen Kim Iris Lee Photo Editor Rebecca Herron Assistant Photo Editors Monica Case Gina Choi Photo Assistant Connor Wheeler Art Editor Alexandra Rangel Assistant Art Editor Sacha Irick Copy Chief Ruth Book Copy Editors Lydia Evans Matthew Finley Brittney Gibson Elise Keitz Janae Masnovi Brooklin Nash Rachel Rant Nate Tinner Online Managing Editor Whitney Irick Assistant Online Editor Genevieve Chong PGM President Al Lai Director of Student Journalism Elizabeth Smith Assistant Director of Journalism Courtenay Stallings Graduate Assistant Heather Manes

Mission Statement: The Graphic is an editorially independent weekly student newspaper for the greater Pepperdine community. It serves the community with news, opinion, contemporary information and a public forum for discussion. The Graphic strengthens students for purpose, service and leadership by developing their skills in writing, editing and publication production, by providing a vehicle to integrate and implement their liberal arts education, and by developing students’ critical thinking through independent editorial judgment. The Graphic participates in Pepperdine’s Christian mission and affirmations, especially the pursuit of truth, excellence and freedom in a context of public service. Although the Graphic reports about Pepperdine University and coordinates with curricula in journalism and other disciplines, it is a student and not a University publication. Views expressed are diverse and, of course, do not correspond to all views of any University board, administration, faculty, staff, student or other constituency.

PERSPECTIVES

February 7, 2013

Women in combat a step forward LIZ ARTHUR

Guest Contributor

Two weeks ago, U.S. Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta ordered the removal of the military’s 1994 ban on women serving in combat positions. The notion of women serving alongside men in combat has been a topic of hot debate as experts argue over whether or not this progressive measure could prove to be a grave mistake. We’ve seen it before. In fact, people have raised a fuss every time women have been allowed to do anything new, like owning property or voting in elections. The circumstances may be different, but it boils down to the same question: What kind of unimaginable chaos could break out if we let women into an arena that was previously reserved solely for men? One of the main arguments against allowing women to serve in combat positions centers around concerns about physical strength. Simply put, can women realistically meet the physical demands required of them? Yes. For one thing, women have been unofficially serving in combat positions for many years. For another, research has shown that biological differences between men and women — including that of

bodily strength — are not as pronounced as society tends to believe. In fact, the essence of male/female differences are often more a product of nurture rather than of nature. Although men may be generally bigger and stronger, it does not mean that all men are naturally stronger than women. Thus, a blanket ban on females serving in combat is not practical. Another concern is the effect of integration on unit cohesion and efficiency. Critics said the same thing about the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” arguing that the military would lose combat efficiency if gay men and women were allowed to serve openly. Did it? No. The problem of sex is frequently debated here. To some, men plus women plus long hours in cramped quarters could only lead to bad things — sexual distractions, problems of privacy and the potential for more rapes. The short response is that the possibility of sexual activity among soldiers is not reason enough to ban all women from serving in combat, just as it was not enough to prevent them from serving in the military. Furthermore, allowing women to serve in combat positions will ultimately increase their status and prestige in the eyes of their fellow soldiers, breaking down the military’s patriarchal nature and lending to fewer cases of sexual assault in the long run.

BREANNA GRIGSBY

Assistant Perspectives Editor

So, it’s Black History Month and what’s the first thing I hear in regard to it? Not a statement to appreciate what the month means, but a question. “Why isn’t there a white history month?” At first I was tempted to be offended, but then I thought more about it. Did I even have a true appreciation for Black History Month? What is the purpose of it anyway? I decided to dispel my ignorance. What I discovered gave me an appreciation and a new outlook on American history. Black History Month was established in 1926 by Harvard-educated historian Dr. Carter G. Woodson and at the time was called “Negro History Week.” So, I thought, why February, the shortest month of the year? Well, as it turns out, both Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln’s birthday fall in the second week of February, so Dr. Woodson chose that week to commemorate them. Negro History Week became Black History Month in 1976, because, as President Gerald Ford said, we need to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of black Americans in every area of

DAVID HUTCHINSON

Perspectives Assistant

Homeschooling allows students to flourish

AMY FAN / STAFF ARTIST

At the heart of this debate lies the belief that men and women are naturally and irreconcilably different and that putting them together in such an environment would be to the detriment of military forces. But recall that there was a day not too long ago when doctors advised women against entering the workforce for fear that it would cause irrevocable damage to their ovaries. The same arguments critics are making today have, in some form or another, been used throughout history to keep not only women but racial and sexual minorities out of areas where they were deemed “unfit.” Hardly anyone today would disagree with having women in government. Females have made significant gains in institutions that were, once upon a time, reserved solely for males.

Indeed, there was a day when women couldn’t participate in the military at all. But society has progressed. And we must continue to do so, rather than falling into the same traps as before. To do so, we must examine the far more complex and deeply ingrained anxieties Americans harbor over what it means to be a man or woman. In times such as this, we should not forget the reality that being born a male does not automatically make one an aggressive, stoic and combat-ready hero. Moreover, being born a female does not make one inherently unfit for such a role. Instead of seeing soldiers with varying degrees of courage and skill, military leaders see men and women, routinely assuming that the latter are

weaker and less fit for battle. This perspective is not only limiting, but it also plays a part in the overall devaluation of women in the military as well as the unacceptably high rates of sexual assault, violence and female subjugation. I believe that disbanding the gender requirement for combat roles will greatly contribute to a breakdown of our military’s patriarchal nature, creating a more unified environment and a more successful military force overall. It’s time to stop seeing gender, race or sexual orientation and start seeing one another as human beings. Allowing women to serve in combat positions is a small step in the right direction for American society. g

elizabeth.arthur@pepperdine.edu

Black history is American history endeavor throughout our history.” Dr. Woodson’s original intent was not to emphasize black history but to emphasize the acheivements of blacks in history and have them appreciated at the same level of other Americans. He expands on this point by adding, “what we need is not a history of selected races or nations, but the history of the world void of national bias, race hate, and religious prejudice.” So, his original purpose was not just to have a month to focus on black history. I dug a little deeper and discovered that, as a historian, Dr. Woodson wanted the scholarly community to which he belonged to recognize the achievements of blacks in history as fairly as they did whites. In our lives, we learn about American history all through the year, whereas black history is limited to one month. Thinking back on my pre-secondary education, I realized this to be true. The black history I learned during this time usually occurred in February. Instead of black history being presented as the integral part of American history that it is, it has been separated out by name — black history — and confined to single chapters or sections of textbooks, and for many Americans the one month of February. Morgan Freeman takes

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the stance that Black History Month is no longer necessary. “I don’t want a black history month. Black history is American history,” Freeman said. Taken at face value, I completely agree with his statement. Blacks have been a part of American history from the beginning — black history is American history. Black history, because it is also American history, should not be confined to just one month but taught, celebrated and commemorated all year long, just as American history is. However, even after research I have come to the conclusion that Black History Month is still necessary. Until black history becomes fully American in our society, one month out of the year is needed. Dr. Woodson intended

for Negro History Week, as it was then, to be deemed unnecessary only after black history became fundamental to American history. I agree with his decades-old stance here. Until African Americans become just Americans, Black History Month is necessary, because that means history has not been fully integrated as it should be. African Americans — unless they were actually born in Africa — are just American. They simply have a higher percentage of melanin in their skin and an unfortunate history due to this fact. As a side note, a person is from a country, not an entire continent. The reason black people are called African American is due to the fact that their ancestry is often unknown because of

ALEXANDRA RANGEL / ART EDITOR

unfortunate historical events. What is known, however, is that the United States is their country of birth, and being so, they are simply American. However, since history teaches valuable lessons, it should not be forgotten. The history of blacks in the U.S. shouldn’t be forgotten or pushed away. It needs to be viewed as the American history that it truly is. Although I have taken a stance in the debate, I do not believe that its focus is really the issue here. The focus of this debate should go from whether or not Black History Month is necessary to why black history is not celebrated as American history.

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breanna.grigsby@pepperdine.edu

When I reveal that I was homeschooled, people often express disbelief. “You were homeschooled? I never would have guessed.” Although a few homeschoolers will always rise to meet the stereotypes proscribed by society, these profiles do not represent the majority of our kind. Critics have accused homeschool parents of crippling their children socially and academically, but this educational system provides students with an enriching opportunity to take responsibility for their academics and relationships. Critics of homeschooling frequently turn to its effects on children’s abilities to socialize with others. However, many homeschool families group together for support and fellowship. Most homeschool students have opportunities to compete on sports teams, sing in choirs, join speech clubs and take classes organized entirely by other members of a vibrant homeschooling community. Instead of isolating students, the absence of a classroom forces them to take responsibility for developing their own friendships. While students in public schools see their friends every day at school, homeschoolers have to plan gatherings and organize logistics in order to see each other. After evaluating the effects of homeschooling on socialization, critics often turn to its academic success, claiming that most parents only have specialized knowledge and cannot properly homeschool their children. As the recipient of 10 years of homeschooling, I am not sure whether I find this argument offensive or amusing. I think most schools would scoff at the idea that college only educates a person in one subject. More importantly, this argument completely overlooks homeschooling’s greatest advantage: focused attention on the child’s individual needs. Regardless of their level of education, parents who take the time to educate their own children can customize their style of teaching in a way that a crowded classroom setting can never replicate. This adaptability proved crucial for Conor, one of my best friends in high school who suffered from extreme cases of dyslexia and ADHD. Since dyslexia made reading and writing almost impossible, his parents adapted his schooling to focus on his strengths — art, design and cinematography. Six months after graduating from high school, Conor works as a freelance artist and has begun studying animation at a local community college. I do not know whether the traditional education system would have better prepared my friend to support himself, but I do know this — homeschooling gave his parents the flexibility they needed to focus on developing my friend’s strengths and to avoid constantly reminding him of his weaknesses. I believe that when my mom decided to homeschool me, she gave me the freedom to pursue subjects that interested me and to learn at my own pace. My homeschool experience saved me from a one-size-fits-all pedagogy and forced me to start actively pursuing education, and it did so without crippling my social skills. Thanks, Mom! g

david.hutchison@pepperdine.edu

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NEWS

February 7, 2013

New Year, New Home Find yours today at Villa Malibu

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1/21/13 8:38 PM

LIFE & ARTS February 7, 2013

Housing upgrades system By Alexis Allison Staff Writer

“List seven words that people use to describe you.” Every student seeking to live on campus in 2013-2014 will have to respond to this request, along with other personality-probing questions, through the new roommate selection website that will be installed this month.

The website, designed by the company Lifetopia, presents a Facebook-esque atmosphere, a Pepperdine-blue interface and bundles of information necessary for students to select both a room and a roommate for next year. »See ROOM, B3

B2 Graphic BRIANNA MANES Staff Writer

God said, ‘Let there be evolution’ Evolution is the idea that all living things on this earth are descendants of earlier living things. First, there were single-celled organisms, but over time they changed, and these changes occurred over billions of years. Eventually, one organism became so different from another — thanks to these accumulated changes — that a new species was formed. And this is the theory of evolution. And yes, I said “theory.” How can scientists have such a strong belief in evolution if it is only a theory? Well, in the scientific world, a theory is an idea that has gained enormous support from data and has never been disproved. Thus, by definition, the theory of evolution has the same standing in science as the theory of gravity. So, just as scientists don’t doubt that their feet will stay firmly planted on Earth, most also don’t doubt that all living things have descended from simpler organisms. So how do living things change over time? As we are well aware, we have inside each of our cells something called DNA, which is a code that tells our entire body how to form. It tells us to have a large nose or long legs or blond hair or brown eyes. DNA is a long chain of nucleotides that we nickname with letters A, T, C and G. String millions of these nucleotides together, and you have one strand of DNA. When our mommies and daddies make eggs and sperm, this DNA has to be copied and packaged into those eggs and sperm, but sometimes there are mistakes in the copy, and we call these mutations. Mutations occur when the sequence changes ever so slightly, but sometimes these mutations stick. For instance, red hair is caused by a mutation in a pigment-encoding gene. Evolution relies on this process of mutation. When new eggs and sperm are made, some have mutations, and these mutations result in slightly different features on the organism, like my red hair. But over billions of years, lots of slightly different features can accumulate into a completely different organism. Scientists have much evidence for this phenomenon, including the fossil record, which shows organisms that are remarkably similar yet still show differences occurring over millions of years. Scientists also see “homology,” or similar features, in animals that have probably come from the same evolutionary line. For example, humans and bats, both mammals, have the same layout of arm bones, but the bones have different lengths and widths. This also adds to the evidence in favor of a common ancestor. As a science major with strong Christian beliefs, it was challenging for me to hear the indisputable data in favor of evolution because it meant that I now had two truths. But why can’t these both be truths? Why can’t God have worked through evolution to create us in His image? If God is incomprehensible, then it is not for us to say how He works, but we do have incontrovertible evidence giving us clues that should not be ignored. g

brianna.manes@pepperdine.edu

LIFE & ARTS

February 7, 2013

Year’s best seek sweep of awards season By Halleta Alemu Staff Writer

As we look back in fond recollection of the People’s Choice Awards, the Golden Globe Awards, the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards and the Critic’s Choice Movie Awards, it may seem that awards season has flown past, foisting upon us a bittersweet and premature farewell. But do not fret, awards–show junkies, for the biggest and best is yet to come. Watching awards shows is a cherished American pastime. It is a time when people from all walks of life can unite and pretend for one night that they are seated in the front row at Hollywood’s hottest, most exclusive events without leaving the comfort of their houses or the close proximity of their stocked refrigerators. It is a time to watch celebrities passive-aggressively ignore their cue music when their acceptance speeches are running too long. Awards season is a chance to experience the rush of seeing Ryan Gosling; it is an opportunity to witness the force and entity that is Angelina Jolie’s appalling thigh slit. It is a reminder of how ardently we wish Jennifer Lawrence were our best friend. As evidenced by the winners at the SAG and Golden Globe Awards, it looks like “Argo,” “Silver Linings Playbook,” “Lincoln” and “Les Miserables” are the top competitors in nearly all categories for this year’s Oscars. Anne Hathaway is expected to take home the tiny golden man for Best Supporting Actress for her heart-wrenching performance in “Les Miserables,” for which she won a Golden Globe and a SAG award. She faces stiff competition, however, from Sally Field and her remarkable and convincing portrayal of Mary Todd Lincoln. Daniel Day-Lewis, who already took home both a Golden Globe and a SAG award, is expected to win Best Actor at the Oscars for his role in “Lincoln,” favored over Hugh Jackman’s Jean Valjean and Bradley Cooper’s adorable Pat in “Silver Linings,” among others. The award for Best Picture is still up in the air, but critics predict that Steven Spielberg will claim Best Picture and Best Director for “Lincoln”

Courtesy of WARNER BROTHERS

UPGRADING THE TROPHY CASE — Already boasting a Golden Globe and an SAG award, “Argo” remains a favorite for the Oscar. “Argo” was directed by Ben Affleck and opened in theaters Oct. 12.

since academy voters generally cast identical votes in those categories. “Lincoln” will compete against “Amour,” “Argo,” “Beasts of the Southern Wild,” “Django Unchained,” “Life of Pi” and “Zero Dark Thirty.” The relatively lighthearted “Silver Linings Playbook” and the much heavier “Zero Dark Thirty” are juxtaposed perhaps most apparently in the pool of nominees for Best Actress in a Leading Role. Jennifer Lawrence’s charismatic portrayal of the off-beat and charming Tiffany faces fierce competition from Jessica Chastain’s powerful and stoic representation of Maya, the hyper-focused and obsessive CIA agent responsible for locating Osama bin Laden. Disney Pixar’s beloved “Brave” will compete with Disney’s “Wreck it Ralph” and “Frankenweenie” for Best Animated Feature Film. Wes Anderson and Roman Coppola’s poignant “Moonrise Kingdom” will face Mark Boal’s “Zero Dark Thirty” in the battle for Best Original Screenplay. With such recurring overlap between categories, it will undoubtedly be a matter of how many, rather than if, any Oscars are awarded to the films “Lincoln,” “Les Miserables,” “Silver Linings Playbook” and “Zero Dark Thirty.” The Grammys, which is set to air on CBS Feb. 10, is the

Courtesy of SONY PICTURES

SWEEPING THE SEASON— Jessica Chastain steals the show in the military drama “Zero Dark Thirty.” Chastain has already received a Golden Globe and a SAG award for her role.

next highly anticipated award show. Generally, it is more difficult to predict who will win which Grammy because genuine artistry and popularity at times do not go hand in hand. Let’s all remember the 2011 Grammy Awards when Esperanza Spalding beat out Justin Bieber for Best New Artist — needless to say there were a lot of unhappy “Beliebers.” This year, six acts are tied in the lead with six nominations each: Jay-Z, Kanye West, Mumford and Sons, The Black

Keys, Frank Ocean and Fun. Per usual, the award show is packed with performers, including Rihanna, Ed Sheeran, Taylor Swift and Elton John. Many will be pleased that Justin Timberlake, the boy-bandstar-turned-actor, will bring sexy back to rule the charts once again with his melodious falsetto and killer hooks. His performance will definitely be one you will not want to miss. Beyonce, the Queen B herself, may also be performing, which hopefully will bring

Jay-Z out to attend — which would mean Kanye West will probably attend — which would then mean Kim Kardashian and her protruding belly will likely attend. From there we can examine the possible detrimental effects the Kimye baby could impose on all of our innocent souls. Clearly, the next few weeks hold expectations higher than ever, so you’d better be watching.

of love with your valentine? Choose from a selection of fresh, warm viennoiserie and hand-crafted chocolate delights. If it isn’t apparent enough, I’m a major chocolate fan. As such, I cannot deny the recommendation of trying the toffee chocolate peanut butter cups. They are dangerously addictive and a perfectly decadent treat at any time of day. Or maybe try a fluffy warm croissant or delicate brioche. Pair that with a cup of coffee or tea and take a seat in the romantic outdoor courtyard. Decorated with sycamore trees and a three-tiered fountain, the garden atmosphere creates a quiet, tranquil setting in the midst of a bustling city. Absorb the beautiful view and maybe take a tour of the hotel. The luxurious decor and attention to detail is worth seeing. Accompanied by the soothing sounds of a gentleman on the grand piano in the lobby, the short walk through the hotel will definitely add the finishing touches to the

ideal romantic date. All in all, j’adore Bouchon Bakery! Location: 235 North Canon Drive, Beverly Hills

with heat lamps for a cool winter night –– if you can really call it “winter” in LA. Aroma Cafe also offers a variety of traditional, sweet favorites like warm apple pie served a la mode and topped with whipped cream. Other classics include fluffy croissants, delicate danishes and moist muffins. Accompany the tasty desserts with a cappuccino or hot cocoa that will send your sweet date over the top. Despite the lively Sunset location, the cafe is the definition of “homey,” creating an intimate and romantic setting for a date. Location: 7373 West Sunset Blvd, LA

halleta.alemu@pepperdine.edu

Wine and dine your Valentine By Danielle DiMeglio Assistant Life & Arts Editor

Your heart is beating uncontrollably. Your palms begin to sweat. Lips part slightly in anticipation. You take a deep breath, trying to contain the butterflies in your stomach. The anticipation deepens, and the world around you seems to stand still. But wait — can this really be? What gracious act have you committed to deserve such an unexpected and delightful sensation? Enough with the self doubt. Embrace the inevitable love. Stare back into the rich, creamy goodness of the most perfect chocolate souffle without fear of a broken heart. Take the plunge and treat yourself to the ultimate form of love –– by satisfying your sweet tooth, that is. Admittedly, I’m a sappy romantic –– the kind who cries watching “The Notebook” or “Sleepless in Seattle” time and time again. For me, Valentine’s Day isn’t about the big fancy

dinner and the lavish gifts. It’s about the little things, people. I know, cheesy, yet highly effective. If you’re finding yourself days before Valentine’s without a plan of action, don’t wallow in despair. Here are some places with sugary delights that will have the same effect as Cupid’s arrow itself.

Bouchon Bakery Home to some of the best pastries in town, Bouchon Bakery offers everything from rich, creamy chocolate tarts to classic French macaroons. Nestled within the Montage Hotel in Beverly Hills, the bakery is separate from the elegant Bouchon Bistro next door, yet holsters the same sophistication and quality in a more casual –– and less expensive –– setting. Inspired by Parisian cafes and bakeries, each delightful bite of any pastry brings a little bit of France right to your stomach. What could be more romantic than sharing the city

Aroma Bakery & Cafe Now, I couldn’t previously mention a love affair with the perfect chocolate souffle without providing you with a restaurant that serves just that –– a tantalizing, velvety, mouth-watering chocolate souffle that will make anyone fall in love. Choose between either regular or white chocolate, and within minutes, you’ll be biting into the ultimate dessert. Love at first bite, if you will. This cozy and inviting cafe is not your average coffee shop. It’s a place with savory and organic dishes –– but most importantly, it has hand-crafted desserts that will make your Valentine’s Day extra special — and make your date extra impressed. Take a seat in the spacious yet homey cafe that has both inside and outdoor seating

Whether you’re a sappy romantic or a sour cynic, these sweet restaurants will be sure to lift your spirits. Make your Valentine’s Day special and try one of these places –– or both!

danielle.dimeglio@pepperdine.edu

February 7, 2013

LIFE & ARTS

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ANDREA WIJAYA / ART CONTRIBUTOR

ROOM: Click and pick your dream housing FROM B1

“Serving the students is the biggest piece [about this new website] — giving as many ways as we can to inform the students,” said Brandon Farmer, assistant director of HRL. “It’s a hard job to be able to match people up who can live together and who have little to minimum issues. We’re trying to put the onus on the students.” The site becomes live Feb. 18 for incoming seniors and then becomes accessible for incoming juniors the following week, Farmer said. Incoming sophomores not studying abroad will select rooms and roommates the week of April 18. In the weeks prior to those dates, students will be able to create a profile, explore housing options and “shop” for potential roommates by username, lifestyle habits or even music preferences. The site provides blueprints of each living area, as well as a bird’s eye view of the living area in relation to the ocean and window views for every single room. “I’m a firm believer in choice,” Associate Dean of Students Brian Dawson said. “We should be giving you all the information — the pictures, the prices and letting you decide. If we can help educate people in a rental process and give them choices, that’s a win-win for me.” This new method will replace the manual system of roommate selection organized by HRL in previous years. “Last year, we had a lottery,” Dawson said. “This year, you can shop around. It’s firstcome, first-served, and we will do a seniority factor. If you’ve

got a block of four roommates, you’ll go first. It’s been described to me that it’s like picking classes.” Another amenity provided by the new system is the ability to link Lifetopia profiles with Facebook. In addition, after students explore various roommate options, they can request and accept roommate options and sign housing contracts via the site, which forwards a record of the activity to the student’s preferred email account. HRL will select and place RAs and SLAs in their positions before the site becomes live — another change from last year. This new method may result in “some interesting side effects that we don’t know about,” Dawson said. For instance, incoming freshmen will be able to research each hall’s RA-and-SLA triad before they select rooms. “I hope there is some grace from students as we go through [the new process], but at the same time I want them to expect a good product because that’s what we say we’re going to provide,” Farmer said. “I think the students will have a good experience with it.” The new website is not the only change implemented by HRL for next year. Sophomore housing will be divided between four themed houses on Greek Row and Towers, which will not be themed, Farmer said. The George Page apartments will now be the least expensive option for juniors and seniors, followed by the apartments in Lovernich and then Drescher. In an attempt to create competitive pricing with off-cam-

pus living areas, HRL will once again be providing discounts for upperclassmen. “If you have lived on campus, including international programs, for four semesters, you get a 10 percent discount, and if you’ve lived on campus for six semesters, you get 20 percent,” Dawson said. “You can pick where you want to go and apply your discount to it.” Although future housing improvements also include a plan to remodel freshman halls and apartments, a timelier enhancement occurring next semester is the placement of new furniture in Lovernich, Drescher and the freshman halls. “We’d like students to stay on campus as long as possible, and we’ve seen that students who live on campus have higher GPAs, more connections with faculty and staff, and higher satisfaction with what is going on on campus,” Dawson said. Students interested in pursuing these opportunities, as well as experiencing the aforementioned HRL transformations, can commence with the creation of their Lifetopia profiles beginning next week. From there, they can research, explore, ponder and select their living arrangement for next year. When asked what excites him most about the new roommate selection process, Dawson said that students will truly have a freedom of choice. “It’s bringing technology and choice together so students can have all the information at their fingertips and be able to hit ‘Yes, this is where I want to live next year.’” g

alexis.allison@pepperdine.edu

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LIFE & ARTS

February 7, 2013

Songfest brings joy and footpain By Samori Joseph Staff Writer

So, you’re thinking about participating in Songfest — you know, that show where the student body takes the stage for a couple of days and shows off their awesome moves and singing voices (or the lack thereof ). Doing the show definitely has its high points, but it comes with some low points as well. I know, I know, this is a truly life-changing decision, and it is not to be taken lightly. Thus, in order to help you with it, I’ve made this short list of pros and cons for taking part. Hopefully it helps! Pros 1. Something to do: If 10 p.m. hits and you find yourself bored, with nothing to do and nowhere to go, then Songfest might just be the cure to your plight. Practices are usually around this time, and they’re the perfect place to socialize while struggling to learn that one dance move. It’s even better when performances begin; doing Songfest gives you something to do every night — not to mention, the after-parties can be pretty fun, and if you’re the person I’ve described in this, chances are it’s the only party you’ll be invited to all year. 2. It’s your 15 minutes of fame: If you ever felt like you were meant to be star, that the whole world needs to see you or that you were meant for something greater, then Songfest isn’t for you. However, if you can settle for being in the back corner, or if you’re lucky enough to get a role in the front row, then Songfest can be your 15 minutes of shining fame — well, 12 minutes of fame, if we’re being technical. 3. Meeting people: Songfest is a great way to meet people you probably would

Courtesy of RON HALL

HARD WORK PAYS OFF — The grueling Songfest experience results in spectacular performances and lasting relationships. Songfest kicks off Feb. 14.

have never met otherwise. Trust me, you will form unlikely friendships and for at least about a week after the shows, you’ll actually still remain friends. Remember “Nervous Tick Nancy” from your COM 180 class? You have scoffed at her before, but now she’s teaching you how to do that spinning move correctly. Or how about “Bad Breath Barry” from Great Books? You may realize that there is a beautiful vibrato beyond that scent. Oh, and most importantly, let’s not forget “Breathtakingly Beautiful Betsy” — just kidding, she’s still way out of your league. 4. Bring people joy: This is definitely one of my favorite aspects of Songfest. As you’re out on stage and you look at the audience you see smiles, laughter and cheer. These people really come from all over to watch Pepperdine’s amateurs put on a show of tradition. The applause, the screaming and the occasional

standing ovation makes every single practice worth it. Of course, this doesn’t apply if your group is actually a theatrical mess on stage. 5. It’s fun: I mean, as basic as that sounds, it’s just the plain truth. The practices, the performances, the costumes, the singing, the dancing, the competition and the one group that never quite gets it right always lead to a good, clean and fun show. Honestly, I’m not sure who enjoys the show more — the audience or the performers. Cons 1. It’s time-consuming: This may seem like a total contradiction to the first “pro,” but, let’s assume that you are the type of person who has things to do during practice time. This is where sacrifice happens. You are going to have to give up some time to learn the dance moves and songs. Songfest isn’t something you can just skip a cou-

ple practices for; do that, and you risk being the laughing stock of the show — and trust me, you are still very visible in the back. Homework, going out and sometimes even things like small group, will have to be put aside on given nights. 2. Winners?: Songfest is supposedly a “competition” but, the truth is, no one in the audience actually cares who wins. Thus, you can get really excited if you win the show; however, chances are no one else (besides your group) will care about it. I’m not quite sure how much of a con this really is, but I can say that when you want to boast about your show — don’t. 3. Ranking mystery: During the award ceremony, you’ll hear the announcer call upon the winners and they will probably jump around and scream (see con above). Just like that, the show’s over. No other group gets to know

where they rank. Sometimes the satisfaction of knowing you only lost by a point or two would make you feel better, alas, you’ll never know. On the brightside though, you can just tell everyone your group came second. 4.Those people who are way too serious: During your practices, you’ll absolutely meet those who think that they’re auditioning for the next broadway production of “Les Miserables.” It’s their time to shine! They come to practice and find a spot in front, audition for every role, tell everyone to be quiet while they’re speaking and are usually just really annoying. These people might not be that fun to practice with, and they make “Nervous Tick Nancy” seem like the coolest girl in the room. They are bad enough to drive you out of the show for good. Things might get rough, but don’t let them get to you. Just ignore them, or even better, try to make

friends with them — you know, just in case they actually do become a broadway star. There you have it: 5 pros and 4 cons. We could weigh the scales, but as you can see, the good most definitely outweighs the bad. The truth is, when else are you going to be able to throw all care out the window? You have the opportunity to dance, sing and spread happiness to everyone watching. Even if you have two left feet or you’re tonedeaf, the great thing about Songfest is that no one cares. It’s all about having a great time. If donning in ridiculous costumes while belting out old and modern tunes and acting like someone you’re completely not sounds absolutely crazy, you’re probably right. You would have to be to be mad, but the thing is, all the best people are.

samori.joesph@pepperdine.edu

LIFE & ARTS

February 7, 2013

Create a V-Day to remember By Danielle Accovelli Life & Arts Assistant

Valentine’s Day is approaching fast, and the pressure is on to make this year even more romantic than last. This can be challenging for many college students who are used to giving the standard gift of roses and a box of chocolate. So, how can a college student on a budget make Valentine’s Day special? Try visiting some of these local places for a unique experience. Santa Monica Pier Although the Santa Monica Pier may not be the ideal place to be alone with your sweetheart, it provides a fun environment with plenty to do and see. The pier offers a breathtaking ocean view that is especially romantic as the sun sets over the ocean. Once the sun goes down, the whole pier lights up and becomes vibrant with brilliant lights and throngs of people that give it a carnival-like atmosphere. Then there’s the Ferris wheel, where you and your date can enjoy a few moments alone while taking in a gorgeous view of the brightly lit city of Santa Monica. The Santa Monica Pier also offers a variety of great restaurants for dinner, including Bubba Gump Shrimp Company, Rusty’s Surf Ranch and Mariasol Cucina Mexicana. Getty Villa If you are looking for somewhere a little more outdoorsy to take your sweetheart on Valentine’s Day, try visiting the Getty Villa located right off PCH in Malibu. The Getty Villa houses many unique collections of ancient Greek, Roman and Etruscan art and artifacts that will keep you occupied for hours. The

Sarah Barge / STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

QUIET PLACE, UNPARALLELED VIEWS — The Santa Monica Ferris wheel offers remarkable ocean views and a pleasant moment of serenity. The Ferris wheel is located on the Santa Monica Pier and costs $3 to ride.

Getty Villa also has magnificent Roman gardens complete with flowers, fountains and seating areas that will truly make you feel like you and your date are in another time. The Getty Villa is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and admission is free, but parking is $15. You can reserve your tickets by visiting the Getty’s online site at www.getty.edu/visit/ or call (310) 440-7300.

are brilliantly lit every night and provide a great place to take a short romantic stroll. LACMA is open from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., and tickets are $10 to $15. You can visit the LACMA site at www. LACMA.org or call the ticket office at (323) 857-6000.

LACMA If you want to take your sweetheart somewhere interesting and artsy on Valentine’s Day and are willing to travel a little farther, LACMA is the perfect place to visit. LACMA is located in the heart of LA along Museum Row and holds extensive collections of art ranging from ancient times to the modern day. LACMA is also famous for its exhibit of street lamps that

Griffith Observatory The Griffith Observatory in LA is the best Valentine’s Day spot if you are looking to spend a romantic night out amid beautiful scenery. Although you probably won’t see too many stars without a telescope, you will be able to take in an absolutely breathtaking view of LA at night. The glow of the lights from the cityscape and tiny cars below mixed with the majesty of the night sky above makes the Griffith Observatory an ideal spot for a date. The Griffith Observatory is open

the MGM fires to interviews with Sugar Ray Leonard. “Even news had its challenges,” Jacobs said. “In one of the fires, we had bleeding victims in our van. There are moments when you have to decide if you’re going to help people or cover the news.” Four years later, Jacobs migrated to San Diego, where he took the position of assistant news director at the Fox 6 news station and pushed the boundaries of traditional local coverage. They would take on national subjects, such as the genome theory, and thread them to the local level. Additionally, the station would hire people fresh out of college creating a teaching newsroom, which was unheard of. “His stories were always so full of emotion and visually stunning. He is an incredible storyteller who truly brought the news to life,” said Professor Theresa de los Santos, who worked with Jacobs at Fox News. During his time at the station, Jacobs was asked to assist on a story about a 17-year-old surfer named Jessie Billauer who had suffered severe paralyzation after hitting his head on a sandbar. Despite the injuries, Jessie’s strong motivation enabled him to get back on the board and into the water, giving hope to those with spinal trauma everywhere. “Within five minutes of meeting Jessie, I knew I wanted to film a documentary on him and his story,” Jacobs said. For eight years, Jacobs filmed the documentary that became one of the turning

points in his career. “At the time, I didn’t realize that what I was doing was God sent,” Jacobs said. “People in Jessie’s situation would lock themselves in a house and think their lives were over. He can’t move his hands, but he will go out on the surf board and hit the waves. I asked myself, what can I do in my life that can help people?” After years of working in news, Jacobs was offered a directing position for the reality show “Breaking Bonaduci,” and since then, has directed several shows. In 2011, Jacobs began directing the first season of “The Glee Project,” a reality show in which contestants compete to land a spot in the upcoming season of “Glee.” Through the filming process, Jacob recalls how producers and directors really got to know the contestants personally. “I remember on set, I was going to each bungalow to introduce myself to each of the contestants and I saw a P.A. running by. I asked why she was running and she proceeded to tell me that one of the members forgot his Bible and she had to go grab it for him. I was so taken aback,” Jacobs said. As the show progressed, one of the top contenders asked to leave the show because he felt that God was leading him on a different path. The spontaneous move shocked not only the producers, but also all of America watching. “The industry is a challenging place for Christians because you are surrounded by

Wednesday through Sunday from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m., and admission is free. For more information, call (213) 4730800. Point Dume Nature Preserve If you are looking to get a little closer to nature with your Valentine’s date this year, try hiking the trail at Point Dume Nature Preserve. This scenic walk is only about 1.5 miles long and ends on the top of a hill with an incredible view of the Santa Monica Bay, the Malibu coast and the Santa Monica Mountains. Point Dume Nature Preserve is known for its beautiful sunset. At the bottom of the trail are isolated beach areas that make for an ideal romantic walk among the crashing waves and serene beach atmosphere. The Point Dume Nature Preserve is located in Malibu just off Westward Beach Road.

Escondido Falls If you and your date are feeling a little more adventurous, the Escondido Falls hiking trail is the perfect Valentine’s Day excursion. This four-mile trail takes about two hours to complete and is for more experienced hikers; however, the amazing views along this trail of the woods, the Santa Monica Mountains and the ocean are well worth the extra effort. Escondido Falls is also famous for its awe-inspiring, three-tier, 150-foot waterfall at the end of the trail, which provides a perfect spot for a romantic picnic. Escondido Falls is located at 2700 Winding Way in Malibu.

danielle.accovelli@pepperdine.edu

Director values more than fame By Danielle Dimeglio Assistant Life & Arts Editor

From directing inspirational documentaries to wild reality shows, Emmy Award– winner Mark Jacobs speaks to students about his conversion to Christianity amid the tempting lures of Hollywood –– or as he calls it, “the pit.” “Since I came to Christ five years ago, my life has completely flipped around,” Jacobs said. “People ask me why I stay in the industry, and I tell them that someone needs to be the light in the pit.” Jacobs highlights the challenges of working in a world that mixes the glamour and glitterati of Hollywood with the omnipresence of alcohol, drugs and an insatiable thirst for fame. Specifically, the moral dilemmas of working in reality television can be intense, such as knowing when to reach out a hand to someone desperate in need or continue filming to capture the drama of a moment for a far-away audience. However, the foundation of Jacob’s career did not begin in reality television and documentaries. Before working on popular shows like “Rob & Big” and “Hell’s Kitchen,” Jacobs gained years of experience working in news and transforming the way people received stories, preferring to tell stories that brought the facts alive with a more human dimension. He officially began his television career working at an NBC news station in Las Vegas covering everything from

Courtesy of MONIQUE BATAC

MORE THAN A CAREER—Aside from an impressive professional career, Mark Jacobs’ passion for helping others is a notable example. Jacobs spoke to a class of Pepperdine students earlier this semester.

so much darkness,” Jacobs said. “God doesn’t give you more than you can handle, but at the same token, you’re expected to be a bright light in a place that’s very dark.” Since working on the show, Jacobs is wrapping up his final reality show, “Basketball Wives,” and plans to continue working on his latest documentary, “Swaziland.” To all Pepperdine students looking for a job in the

industry, Jacobs gives the same advice he gave his daughter: “If you’re interning, don’t just wait for someone to ask you to do something. Take initiative. It’s about enthusiasm and loving what you’re involved in. It’s not about creating 10 series in one year to make a lot of money. It’s about making films that you’re passionate about and believe in.” g

danielle.dimeglio@pepperdine.edu

Graphic

DIANA LOSEN

Staff Writer

Laugh away your problems Writing this week’s column alone takes a gulp of courage — let’s go with “swig.” A swig of courage. That sounds cooler. I have a confession in the form of a story: I just got my driver’s license a little more than a month ago. That’s right. At 21, baby. Admitting to this in print took almost as much nerve as it did for me to get behind the wheel. I don’t know if you guys realize this, but driving can occasionally be heart-trying-to-escape-yourbody terrifying. Even practice required courage, as each parent was a challenge in their own way. My mom didn’t appreciate the game of chicken I had going with our neighborhood’s senior citizens and would get all high-pitched about it. My dad was calmer, but he also got bored easily and wanted to get to places quickly. Occasionally, “speed” placed higher on his priorities than “legal.” So my instructions were a cocktail of “very cautious” and “as long as no police are around.” All too soon, it came time for my driving test. I was set to grab a friend of mine for coffee right after, and I had visions of waving my license around in self-satisfaction that would border, if not live directly on, smug. But this was not to be. Apparently, DMV testers have a problem with speed. Also it turns out that curbs are not acceptable access routes. I failed. I scrambled to schedule a second test a mere two days before I was set to drive six hours back to Malibu. Desperate times were nigh and the stakes were high. And rhymes alone would not get me by. So of course, day of, my mom had ingested too much caffeine and was bouncing off her seat with nervous energy. We also had a ridiculous amount of trouble finding the office in a strange town 90 minutes away. Barely making our appointment, I made two mistakes before we pulled in, which vacuumed up any shred of confidence I had left. Disconcertingly fast for the DMV, I was paired with my tester and began walking toward my car, each step heavy with dread. Things got off to an embarrassing start when I tried to start the car without gunning the engine. I realized my mistake and said, “That was a joke,” to which my tester did not laugh. Or breathe, even. The man was stone. Fifteen achingly slow minutes later, I was told that I passed and did “very well.” Take that, instructor from a week ago! I was officially licensed. After about 10 minutes of luxuriating in relief and pride, God decided I was getting annoying. So when backing out of the parking space directly in front of the DMV’s large, glass window, I backed up onto the curb. I then proceeded to accidentally rev the engine. While in park, atop the curb, a loud splutter and at least five neck turns my way had me exclaiming, “We have to leave before they take it back!” I righted the car and got us on our way in such a blur of efficient speed that I nearly ran over a passerby before driving off into the sunset. This week, share your own embarrassing horror story, laugh at yourself and invite others to join in. I dare you. g

diana.losen@pepperdine.edu

B6 Graphic

LIFE & ARTS

February 7, 2013

MOVIE REVIEW

Rogue Wave BEN HOLCOMB Staff Writer

Rethink the will to believe So Beyonce didn’t come to Pepperdine. Didn’t happen. And yet we let ourselves fall. We let ourselves believe in something. Let our minds wander off where they would. And who could blame us? News spread last week that Beyonce Knowles-Carter was on her way to Pepperdine for a private tour of the school. Our student body nearly self-imploded. And then, with half of the freshman class in tears lining the inside stairs like a nightmarish version of the Von Trapp family, the culprits claimed ownership of the prank, and laughed in our face. And I, as someone having thought some eager senior’s fiancee was walking around, was left wondering just what the heck happened. But the prank itself, if examined for authenticity, sort of falls on its face, doesn’t it? A trusted student tour guide says Beyonce is coming. Everyone questions it. Others fan the flames. People start saying, “Weird, I guess she is coming.” Then, right when we’ve given up the desire to second guess, the pranksters come out and shout, “Got ya, suckers!” right in our faces. I’m sorry, what? What was the point of that? That’s like telling a sibling that Mom died. Then, when they start crying, you punch them and laugh at them for being such a sissy. What did you expect our reaction to be? We should’ve known better, though. I’m surprised not one single person offered up the counterpoint that Beyonce was clearly in New Orleans prepping for her transformer-exploding halftime show. I’m even more surprised no one thought it weird that one of the world’s biggest superstars just randomly had the inclination to see what the Howard A. White Center looked like from inside. Can you imagine? “I’ve seen it from Google Maps, but street view can only capture so much,” says GQ’s Sexiest Woman Alive. “Hey, can you show me around the J. Pengilly House? I’m just dying to see what decorations their RAs came up with this year.” Alas, none of this happened. Maybe one day Blue Ivy Carter, in all her glory, will check in for NSO (Fall 2030 for those counting). But until that glorious day, when Jay-Z sits in attendance of Frosh Follies wondering how far he’s come — how tragically far he’s come — from the “hard knock life,” we’ll be forced to settle for Britney Spears showing up to Dance in Flight. What did the culprits stand to gain from conning the whole school? Are they somehow better for this? Maybe. Wealthier in spirit? I can’t imagine how they’d sleep at night. Maybe they’re more popular, in the way people who get embarrassed flock to their bullies as a means of ensuring clemency in the future. The takeaway from this act of foolhardy deception is that we all need to chill on the celebrity freak-outs. Beyonce could have added zero to your life — save a Twitter update. How much cooler would it have been if she did come to Pepperdine, but we were so busy living our own lives, that nobody stopped to even notice her? Now that would be a killer prank. g

william.holcomb@pepperdine.edu

COURTESY OF SUMMIT ENTERTAINMENT

LOVE KNOWS NO PREJUDICE— R (Nicholas Hoult), a peculiar zombie, and Julie (Teresa Palmer), a human girl, fall in love as they struggle to survive in a world ridden with zombies. “Warm Bodies” opened in theaters across the country Feb. 1.

Love and zombies warm hearts

By Ayden Smalling Staff Writer

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, “Warm Bodies” has arrived, a zombie romantic comedy that won’t surprise or impress you, but if you go in with low expectations, you’ll at least think it’s cute. It’s “Twilight” meets “Romeo and Juliet” meets “Shaun of the Dead,” without being as good as its inspirations — but at least it doesn’t carry the stigma that “Twilight” does. When I say “Warm Bodies” borrows from “Romeo and Juliet,” I mean it. Our loverboy goes by “R” because that is the most of his name he can remember, and he falls in love with Julie, the daughter of the zombie-killing general. R and Julie, get it? Unfortunately, the plot is lacking. R meets Julie as he’s dining on her boyfriend’s flesh, but they flirt immediately after. If I walked in on

another guy consuming my girlfriend — well, you get the picture. One minute they are hurrying to avoid certain destruction and the next they somehow have the time for a montage trying on sunglasses that would look right at home in one of Pepperdine’s NSO lip-dubs. While the logic behind it may be absent, the chemistry itself is not. Richard Hoult and Teresa Palmer do well as lead characters. Palmer has more fight in her than Kristen Stewart did in “Twilight,” which makes her more entertaining to watch. Hoult does an especially good job. He has to make blank stares, lumbering limbs and disjointed, grunt-like dialogue charming, and he does just that. John Malkovich plays the stereotypical military leader role — nothing special from arguably the biggest name in the cast. I felt cheated by Rob Corddry’s role as well.

His brand of comedy is overthe-top and dark; he didn’t do much for me as a subtle sidekick. One of the movie’s best aspects was the soundtrack. R, who lives in an abandoned airplane, has a collection of vinyls and music posters. This is a way to both humanize him and make him seem cool, both steps that need to be accomplished for the audience to buy into this romance. For people wanting to see a zombie movie, you will be disappointed. This is a romantic comedy that happens to have zombies in it. The role of the real antagonists are filled by Bonies — no, not Bronies, although they antagonize society in their own right (if you don’t know what a Brony is, spend some time Googling it; it’s fun). The Bonies are undead who have decomposed to — wait for it — bones. And these are terribly CGI-generated. Because our

bad zombies are just bones, “Warm Bodies” avoids one of the most important factors in a zombie movie — gore. This film is not scary, and it is not gory. The zombies are all intact and just have on too much makeup; it wouldn’t surprise me if I saw one working at Hot Topic (Hot being of a higher temperature than Warm). As I walked out of the theater, I felt I was not the target audience for this movie. In fact, I feel like college students are not the target audience for this movie. This movie is aimed at people who want to say they saw something edgy, but it is not for true zombie lovers. So, if you’ve got nothing else to do and want to see a cute movie with some zombies, go for it. But overall, it’s just meh.

ayden.smalling@pepperdine.edu

I give this film:

Favorite Quote: “That guy on the corner is definitely dead.”

Upcoming:

A Good Day to Die Hard

MUSIC REVIEW

‘We the common’ proves far from ordinary

By Nikki Torriente Executive Editor

Thao & The Get Down Stay Down released their highly anticipated third studio album, “We the Common,” Tuesday. “We the Common” marks the third project by Thao Nguyen with her band, and the 12-track album does not disappoint. Nguyen’s unique brand of indie alternative folk-rock is front and center on this record and shows a more mature sound and vocal arrangement for the front-woman. Released by the label Ribbon Music, Thao & The Get Down Stay Down have crafted a beautiful record sure to impress. Since Nguyen hit the music scene — she began recording in high school — her knack for creating catchy music has stuck with her and has grown as she’s grown in the music industry. Nguyen has proven time and time again that she’s a master songstress, and her music is a testament to her talent. Her folksy vocal range and her indie-rockwith-a-dash-of-pop genre has provided Nguyen with a sound that’s mainstream yet entirely her own. She’s an amalgamation of female indie folk artists — Feist, Florence & the Machine and Elizabeth & The Catapult, to name a few — yet her punchy musical attitude allows her to form

her own persona. “We the Common” includes all the aspects that fans have come to love about Thao & The Get Down Stay Down, but has an added dose of musical maturity and sass. The album is a catchy, upbeat indie-pop mix of vocals, instrumentation and experimentation. Nguyen’s third album masterwork is a deliciously bold punch to the eardrum that hooks tight and won’t let go. But for once, being reeled in is all too welcome with this album. “We the Common” is a smooth representation of Nguyen and her musical adventures. The opening track on the album, “We the Common” — the title track — is a beautiful teaser for the rest of the album. Nguyen’s feisty vocal quality emerges unflinchingly; paired with the whimsicality of the lyrics, Nguyen’s vocals are irresistibly alluring. It’s nearly impossible not to give in to the toe-tapping quality of the rhythm. The group harmonies scattered throughout the track also give the song a unique flair that is reminiscent of Feist; however, Nguyen manages to make the song her own by the sheer strength of her vocal performance. Nguyen knows her feisty vocals are her strong suit, and she’s not afraid to use that to her advantage. The second track on the

album, “City,” rhythmically emotes the same feisty quality that Nguyen’s vocals possess. The guitar and drumbeat create an upbeat, funky instrumentation that is carried throughout the entire track. “City” is quite the attention-getting song because it’s a lively, bold mix of Nguyen’s vocals, fast-paced instrumentation and experimentation with group harmonies in the chorus. The song builds steadily and abruptly stops, almost as if at the end of a sprint. But Nguyen crashes through the pause and continues the feisty rhythm until the very end of the track. The song is spirited and refreshing because of Nguyen’s musical experimentation with the track’s instrumentation, vocals and group harmonies. “Holy Roller” is another great track on the album. The instrumentation on the track is decidedly more sultry than most of the other songs on the album, and that gives the song a little extra dose of sass. The oriental quality to the rhythm and instrumentation creates a very unique foundation for the track that makes the song a stand-out because it sounds very different than anything else on the album. Together with Nguyen’s vocals and the lyrics, “Holy Roller” is a refreshing track that shows the maturity with which Nguyen experimented

with her sound. The song still possesses all the qualities that make Thao & The Get Down Stay Down unique, yet Nguyen takes a step past the indie-folk formula to find something new, and she achieves another great track. “Kindness be Conceived” is Nguyen’s collaboration with Joanna Newsom. The track takes on a more folk sound with its simple, guitar-driven rhythm and sounds a bit more country-twang than any of Nguyen’s other work on the album. Another toe-tapping track, the song finds a great deal of its allure in its catchy lyrics. But the pairing of Nguyen’s sturdy middle-range voice and Newsom’s high, unconventional vocals creates this extraordinary combination that teeters precariously on the cliff of not being complementary; however, Nguyen and Newsom manage to keep their vocals from competing, and the two singers find a happy balance. Thao & The Get Down Stay Down’s “We the Common” is a magnificently catchy indie folk-rock album that highlights Nguyen’s plucky vocal attitude. The album is a beautifully diverse 37-minute record that will impress even the toughest critic with its candid playfulness and poised experimentalism. g

leticia.torriente@pepperdine.edu

Courtesy of THAO & THE GET DOWN STAY DOWN

Key Facts Artist Thao & The Get Down Stay Down

Genres

Folk rock

Label

Ribbon Studios

On Tour? Yes, check out thaoandthegetdownstaydown.com

LIFE & ARTS

February 7, 2013

Graphic

Get into literary character

Down 1. Captain of the Nautilus 2. 007 3. He Who Must Not Be Named 4. The impish Lion of Lannister 6. The Great ___ 8. Searching for the Three Musketeers 9. The stand-up lawyer in “To Kill A Mockingbird” 11. “Please, sir, I want some more” 12. King of the Wild Things 13. The vengeful captain of the whaling vessel Pequod 14. The barn spider who writes in her web 16. Anti-hero in “A Clockwork Orange” 18. Jekyll and ___ 20. Hansel and ___ 21. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo 22. Mary Shelley 25. Pin the tail on this depressed donkey 31. The deadly white whale 32. “My precious”

Across 5. The Hunchback of Notre Dame 7. ___ the grey 10. The boy who couldn’t grow up 12. “In an old house in Paris that was covered in vines ...” 15. Bram Stoker 17. Stalked by the Headless Horseman 19. The lion of Narnia 20. The curious little monkey 23. The alter ego in “Fight Club” 24. Wherefore art thou__?

CALENDAR Friday, Feb. 8

PIT Show 8 p.m. (Performance –– Elkins Auditorium)

Saturday, Feb. 9

“Skyfall” Showing 7 p.m. (Elkins Auditorium)

26. ___ Hears a Who 27. Dictator of the Animal Farm 28. Stark’s bastard 29. The Old Man and the Sea 30. Arthur Conan Doyle 31. Human protagonist of Kipling’s “The Jungle Book” 33. American Psycho 34. A girl in Wonderland 35. The Picture of ___ 36. Heroine of The “Hunger Games” 37. The lightning-scarred wizard

AQUARIUS: According to celestial watchers, dark energy is upon you given the retrograde of the art of Nadir in the new moon of Venus.

LEO: Embrace your inner lion or lioness. Rawr.

PISCES: See if you can walk on water this week. Jesus did it –– so can you!

LIBRA: Marco?

ARIES: Jack Nicholson was an Aries in the last half of “The Shining.” TAURUS: Your fashion sense is pretty eclectic, erratic and bizarre. No offense. GEMINI: Get a haircut for heaven’s sake.

For answers to the crossword, visit pepperdine-graphic.com

CANCER: Cancers tend to make up words when describing complex concepts. On an unrelated note, Sarah Palin is a Cancer.

VIRGO: Forget jealousy this week. Give envy a chance.

SCORPIO: Start looking for skeletons buried beneath parking lots. There are English kings under some. This is just one path to fortune and fame. SAGITTARIUS: Get the Sorcerer’s Stone from Harry, break it into a bazillion little pieces, sell the pieces in rings and bracelets, and capitalize on the whole eternal life thing. That is just another path to fortune and fame. CAPRICORN: You are conservative and never take risks. Essentially, you are dull.

>> g n i k par job of the week

Bad

This driver took some parking liberties, assuming those little white lines were mere suggestions. Next time you’re walking down the road and see an awful parking job, take a photo and send it to us at graphic@pepperdine.edu.

Sunday, Feb. 10

Sebastian Baverstam –– Cello Performance 2–4 p.m. (Concert –– Raitt Recital Hall)

Monday, Feb. 11

Sunrise Shred 6 a.m. (Exercise Class –– Fitness Studio)

Tuesday, Feb. 12

Ellie Goulding 8 p.m. (Performance — Hollywood Palladium)

Wednesday, Feb 13 Ra Ra Riot 8 p.m. (Concert –– The Observatory)

Thursday, Feb. 14

Songfest Kick-off Event 10–12 p.m. (Sign Up –– Elkins)

Courtesy of ADDYSEN WALCHEK

SOCIAL

MEDIA >> highlight OF THE

WEEK

Have you always dreamt of becoming a hit musical sensation on Broadway? Or possibly fantasized about singing and dancing on top of hills like Julie Andrews back in the day? Well, future Tony Award winners, this is your time to shine. Join Pepperdine Songfest and add them on Facebook today for the latest news and updates. This will be your one chance to showcase your skills in front of the entire student body.

SPORTS

February 7, 2013

»pepperdine-graphic.com/sports

Fuel your body like an athlete By Stasia Demick Assistant Sports Editor

Pepperdine competes in the most competitive NCAA division in the nation and against the top teams in many sports. The Waves have won 12 NCAA Division I championships, and continue to produce powerhouse athletes every year. Athletes such as MLB player Danny Worth and soccer stars Anisa Guajardo and Roxanne Barker prove that the Waves bring in and produce some of the great athletes in professional sports. Hard work and excellent coaching are fundamental components to the path of success, but self-discipline is a skill that athletes hone to refine every aspect of their game. It is simple advice for anyone looking to tone up and gain a competitive edge in athletic performance, to eat more leafy greens and high protein meals. Here are four simple tips from an athlete that can take your performance to the next level: No. 1 Hydrate and replenish electrolytes In sunny Malibu, the Waves focus on taking in above-average amounts of sodium, electrolytes and water. The sunshine around these parts is a double-edged sword that causes great amounts of sweating and dehydrates the body faster than in cold temperatures. The old “eight glasses” rule no longer fits the bill. One old-school rule that hasn’t gone out of style is checking urine color to

determine hydration level — the less yellow, the better. Athletes who suffer from muscular cramps often increase water and sodium intake. Muscle control is dependent on a well-hydrated system.

a trip to Ralphs or the Caf is all it takes to provide oneself with food. High-calorie foods are not as crucial to the human diet. Here’s a secret to keep in mind in a grocery store: All the essential food groups are usually covered on the outskirts of the store. The inside aisles tend toward processed and junk foods. One could obtain every food group just by shopping the walls of Ralphs or Trader Joe’s. The salad bar might be the best vegetables Pepperdine has to offer, but keep in mind that the dark green and purple vegetables are packed with the most nutrients. As an athlete, I recommend kale, Brussels sprouts and beets as some of the top-notch vegetable options.

No. 2 Don’t be afraid of carbs When increasing physical activity, it is imperative to increase caloric intake. If the body is not fueled, it will burn muscle once glycogen stores are depleted. Muscle is a lot more difficult to gain back than it is to lose. One thing Pepperdine athletes don’t worry about is being judged when they go back for a second helping. But beware, one common athlete problem is eating enough while rolling on a Caf card budget. Track captain Juliet Casillas said, “One of the struggles of being an athlete is always being out of Caf points, because I’m always eating.”

No. 4 Eat in a timely fashion Athlete or not, breakfast plays a key role in waking up one’s metabolism and starting the day off on a high note. Breakfast should typically be the biggest meal of the day, as it provides the necassary fuel for the activities ahead. In cross country and track, the difference between first and last place could depend entirely on the pre-race meal. Similarly, before working out, there are some general rules that will help prevent stomach problems and allow for optimal energy use. Typically, athletes should eat a meal two to three hours before competition. One hour before is the ideal time for fueling with a snack or PowerBar. Hydrating is a process

No. 3 Lean and green Malibu Yo is a staple to any Pepperdine student’s diet, but sugars and fats are the main areas that should be curbed. Not to an extreme, since fats are necessary in a diet, but in the high-calorie, low-nutrition food world of today, awareness is key to maintaining good focus and enhancing performance. Why does one crave these foods? Well, theories date this instinctual desire back to when humans had to earn every meal. High-calorie foods were necessary to stay healthy since food was less accessible. Now

that should occur constantly until 20 minutes before the big event. Whether you classify yourself as a “grazer” or a “big-deal eater,” make sure not to skip meals. Not eating will cause the body to go into starvation mode and preserve fat and burn muscle instead. Athletes understand that it is crucial to keep the body properly fueled and healthy. Key words in the athletic world are hydration, carbs and greens. These are important aspects of anyone’s nutrition since most individuals do not get the correct values of each their body’s needs. From a young age, athletes have been taught what to eat and what to avoid, but mastering when to eat is a challenge of trial and error. Refueling the body is crucial to optimum performance and focus, whether for a track meet or a biology exam. Have you ever wondered what an early-morning cyclist, a yoga enthusiast and a nationally ranked athlete need in order to perform and feel their best? The answer is two words: proper nutrition.

stasia.demick@pepperdine.edu

Alexander Hayes / CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Basketball women keep the faith despite losses By Marissa Baly Sports Assistant

“We aren’t where we can be,” women’s basketball Head Coach Julie Rousseau said in regard to the team’s seven-game losing streak this season. After their loss at Gonzaga on Saturday, the Waves have had four wins and 16 losses this season; in the 2011-12 season they had 14 wins and 15 losses. With seven games remaining in the regular season, the Waves have already had more losses to this date than they did all of last season. Fortunately, the West Coast Conference Championships start the first week of March, and all seven of the Waves remaining games are WCC games. “The conference schedule is young and we still have a chance to do well in the tournament in Vegas,” said Associate Head Coach Darryl Brown.

Last season the women’s team finished with a conference record of eight wins and eight losses. This year, they are already 1-8 in the WCC, equaling last year’s conference losses. The Waves performance in the WCC has been a contributing factor to their overall season record. Against tough WCC schools such as Gonzaga and Portland, the Waves have won only one of nine conference games, putting them in last place in the WCC. This season, the Waves are struggling to adapt to a very young team after losing many key players this season to graduation and injury — last year’s seniors contributed to 90 percent of the team’s scoring, according to Rousseau. After four of last year’s five starters graduated, the coaches and players are experimenting to rebuild the team. The 2012-13 Waves may be

a young team, but their coaches are not easing up on them. The team faced a tough preseason schedule against some of the top 20 schools in the nation. The team is very excited for their remaining WCC games, especially since four of the seven are at Firestone Fieldhouse. Home-court advantage for any team is a great motivator, and the Waves have had fairly high attendance this year. In eleven home games, they have attracted a total attendance of 3,825 fans, which is already more than last year’s attendance total for home games. Regardless of the season’s current statistics and obstacles, the Waves women can still do well in the WCC Tournament with their young players, fresh team dynamic and experienced coaches. “It’s not just getting through this period, but how we get through,” Rousseau said. “We can count a lot of victories this

Connor Wheeler/ PHOTO ASSISTANT

DON’T GIVE UP — Coach Julie Rousseau talks to sophmore forward Tessa Martin after the loss against Gonzaga.

year. It’s not just the scoreboard; we will turn it around, and hard work will come to fruition.”

The Waves will take on the Portland Pilots on Saturday, Feb. 9, at 2 p.m. in the Fieldhouse. The Pilots recently

SCOREBOARD Men’s Basketball Women’s Basketball

vs.

BYU San Francisco

vs.

Portland Gonzaga

vs.

Men’s TennisTexas

Women’s Tennis Men’s Volleyball

vs.

Date

Jan. 31 Feb. 2

L, 63-61 L, 86-78

Jan. 31 Feb. 2

L, 57-51 L, 81-52

Feb. 3

W, 6-1

Date Date Date

USC Fresno State

Jan. 31 Feb. 1

USC

Feb. 1

vs.

Score

Date

Record: 10-11 10-12

Record:

Score

Record:

Score

Record:

Score

Record:

W, 3-1

marissa.baly@pepperdine.edu

NEXT UP...

Score

L, 7-0 L, 4-3

beat the Waves on Jan. 31, so the team will have a lot to overcome during Saturday’s game.

4-15 4-16 5-0

0-1 0-2

4-3

Thursday, February 7

Men’s Basketball at Gonzaga at 8 p.m.

Monday, February 11

Friday, February 8

Women’s Basketball at San Diego at 7 p.m. Women’s Golf at Northrop Grumman Regional

Saturday, February 9

Wednesday, February 13

Challenge (All Day)

Women’s Tennis vs. UC Irvine at 1p.m. Tuesday, February 12 Men’s Volleyball at Cal State Northridge at 7 p.m. Women’s Golf at Northrop Grumman Regional Baseball Alumni Game at 1 p.m. Women’s Tennis vs. Stanford at 1 p.m. Men’s Basketball at Portland at 1 p.m. Women’s Basketball vs. Portland at 2 p.m.

Men’s Volleyball vs. Cal Baptist at 7 p.m. Women’s Swimming PCSC Championships (All Day)

Women’s Golf Northrop Grumman Regional Challenge (All Day)

SPORTS

February 7, 2013

Graphic

Top transfer joins Waves By Wen Chen Sports Editor

Only 21 years old, Francis “Nino” Alcantara is already a nationally ranked tennis player and has played in international tournaments all over the world. “My favorite place is Paris,” said the Filipino native who has more than fulfilled his dreams of watching a Grand Slam by winning one. But his success did not come without sacrifice, as Alcantara recounts the cost of forfeiting time with family as the hefty price for his athletic achievement. It was his father who first got Alcantara started in tennis at age 5, soon after which the young athlete began appearing in, and winning, local tournaments. By age 8, Alcantara was the No. 1 player in the under-10 division in the Philippines. When his parents saw the potential, Alcantara began his career that left his mark in tennis courts all over the country. Because his father had been his first tennis coach and constant supporter, it was a heavy blow to Alcantara and his family when his father passed away unexpectedly. Alcantara was only 10. As the family struggled with grief and the loss of a father and husband, Alcantara’s young tennis career was forced to a halt for a time. It was Alcantara’s mother who got him back on track with tennis after his father’s passing, taking him and his brothers to Manila for a tennis tournament the summer after. Despite the

brief hiatus (eight to nine months) that Alcantara had from tennis, he continued winning on the courts and has not stopped since. The young athlete said he owes his success to his mother and he misses her and his two younger brothers very much. “She was really strong, she never gave up on my brothers and I and we’re lucky to have her,” Alcantara said. “Without her, I wouldn’t be here.” At 16, he won the Australian Open Junior Doubles and was the first Filipino ever to win a tennis Grand Slam. This garnered nationwide recognition and allowed Alcantara to continue playing on the international stage, where he had the opportunity to meet and befriend some of his Pepperdine teammates. Junior, David Sofaer has known Alcantara since they were 12; they met in Australia at a tennis tournament. Since then, they have run into each other on various occasions, and Alcantara said he had either met or heard of most of his teammates before joining them on the team at Pepperdine. Having transferred to Pepperdine this semester from Fresno State, Alcantara has enjoyed the opportunity to live on campus and spend time with friends and his teammates. “He is a really chill guy … [but] he plays a tricky game; it makes people go crazy. I go nuts when I play with him in practice sometimes!” said Finn Tearney, Alcantara’s doubles partner. Alcantara chose Pepperdine over other schools like UCLA, USC, UC

Berkely and the University of Florida (all top-10 tennis schools) because of the strong athletic program, great coaches and “a good chance at the NCAA championships.” When talking about what he likes doing outside of tennis, Alcantara’s hobbies may seem mild — sleeping, watching movies and hugging his (stuffed toy) penguin “Binch” — but teammate Mousheg Hovhannisyan described Alcantara as someone who “likes trying new things, very open … [and] a risk-taker.” Alcantara is a member of the nine-person men’s tennis team under the tutelage of Head Coach Adam Steinberg. Pepperdine is ranked in the top-five of the Intercollegiate Tennis Association rankings as a result of their five game winning streak this season. As for Alcantara’s hopes for this year, he said, “win the NCAA, pass Humanities and then go home for the summer.”

huiwen.chen@pepperdine.edu

Gina Choi/ ASSISTANT PHOTO EDITOR

Club rugby team kicks off spring season By Marissa Baly Sports Assistant

Marissa Baly / SPORTS ASISTANT

SCRIMMAGE — Men’s rugby play against UC Riverside on Alumni Green. The team is hopeful to advance to the playoffs this year.

Pepperdine men’s rugby started their spring season on Saturday, with a match against UC Riverside. Founded in 1955, the rugby team is one of the oldest club sports on campus. The match was played on the muddy and uneven Alumni field and ended in a loss. Collegiate rugby is yearlong — it has both fall and spring seasons — but the fall season is an unofficial preseason for the formal spring season, which leads to the regional and national playoffs in April. “The team will do very well this year,” Coach Robert Ahola said. “We’ve been playing against larger colleges, such as USC Irvine — schools with 20 to 30 thousand students — and now we’re playing in a new di-

vision against smaller colleges of our size, so that’s exciting.” Ahola is the pro bono coach for Pepperdine rugby, meaning he coaches voluntarily. Having played rugby for almost three decades, he enjoys coaching the Pepperdine men and seeing them work together. “Pepperdine’s always been great at rugby; we usually make the playoffs, and I think we will again this year,” Ahola said. Not only is Pepperdine’s rugby team unique because it is a very competitive and historic sport, but more than 10 percent of the players are military veterans. Of the 25-player team, the veterans include Peter Creech of the U.S. Coast Guard, Eric Brown of the U.S. Marine Corps Infantry and Joel Denning of the U.S. Marine Corps Air Wing. “Our veterans are bringing

FAN CENTRAL: Amanda McKee At the Pepperdine men’s volleyball game against USC Feb. 1, you could hear freshman Amanda McKee cheering throughout all of Malibu. Not only did she cheer for her Waves, but she also enjoyed professing her love for members of the USC team to distract them during play. “I’m really loud, so anything I can yell that can get people’s attention is rockin’,” McKee said. “I’m from the South, so I love my football, but now that I’m a California girl, I love my men’s volleyball, “ McKee said.

Marissa Baly / SPORTS ASSISTANT

AYO WAVES — Amanda McKee (right) cheers for the men’s volleyball team against USC on Feb. 1. The Waves won in four sets.

a lot of maturity and leadership to the team,” Ahola said. “They’ve been in real combat, so this is definitely playtime for them.” Denning, a 23-year-old firstyear student at Seaver College, started at Pepperdine this fall after serving for five years. Like most Pepperdine rugby players, he played football in high school and discovered rugby upon arrival at Pepperdine. “Being a member of the team is a great experience,” Denning said. “I think being a military veteran gives … [us] a very unique set of perspectives on things that hopefully make the club that much better.” In addition to the players on the team who are military veterans, Coach Ahola also served in the Marine Reserve. “It is really cool to be surrounded by individuals who

can relate to the military background, and the students who haven’t had our experiences have welcomed us all, which has been great,” Denning said. The rugby team has a whole season of matches ahead of them, including more home matches at Alumni Green, so check their Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/ WavesRugby) to stay up-todate with upcoming games and this season’s results.

marissa.baly@pepperdine.edu

Ask A Wave

What song do you sing in the shower?

“In Da Club”— 50 Cent

“It’s My Life”— Gwen Stefani

“Bandz A Make Her Dance”— Juicy J

Finn Tearney Senior Tennis

Hugh Clarke Senior Tennis

Jan Maehlen Sophomore Basketball

“African Queen” — 2Face

“Party in the USA” — Miley Cyrus

“Peace in a Time of War” — Soldier of Jah Army

Many Ochenje Moriba De Freitas Sophomore Junior Basketball Basketball

Nick Candau Freshman Water Polo

B10 Graphic

SPORTS

February 7, 2013

Waves teams gather momentum By Halli Spraggins Staff Writer

At the beginning of the season, all the coaches from the West Coast Conference voted the Pepperdine men’s tennis team to finish first in the 2013 WCC. Our 2012 reigning WCC champs also have several players listed on the preseason all-conference team: senior Sebastian Fanselow, 2012 WCC Player of the Year, and senior Finn Tearney, 2012 AllWCC First Team for singles and doubles. No. 7 Waves faced the No. 14 Texas Longhorns here in Malibu. In the singles competition, Fanselow and Tearney, and juniors Francis Alacantara and David Sofaer swept the singles matches against the Texas team. In the doubles competition, Tearney and Alcantara defeated their opponents 8-6, along with Moush Hovannisyan and Sofaer who beat the Longhorns 8-5. The Pepperdine women’s tennis team has also been selected to finish first in the WCC finals. The No. 33 Waves opened up the season Jan. 28 against the USC Trojans here in Malibu. The Trojans defeated the Waves in six close singles matches but the doubles

Courtesy of PEPPERDINE ATHLETICS

GOT GAME — David Sofaer returns service in a singles match. The Australian student returned for his junior year at Pepperdine.

team of sophomore Lorraine Guillermo and senior Khunpak Issara gave the Waves a glimmer of hope with their unfinished 5-4 game against the Trojans.

The Women’s tennis team faced Fresno State in their second game of the season. Issara and Guillermo continued to carry the beacon of hope for the Waves in their singles

matches, Issara defeating her opponent 7-6, 6-3 and Guillermo with a 6-2, 6-1 win. Junior Ale Granillo also defeated Bulldog opponent Bianca Modoc 6-2, 7-5.

Women’s tennis will have their next two home matches this weekend against UC Irvine on Feb. 8 at 1p.m. and on Feb. 9 against Stanford at 1p.m. The men’s team will go

to the Intercollegiate Tennis Association National Team Indoor Championship Feb. 15 to 18 in Seattle. g

halli.spraggins@pepperdine.edu

Men’s Basketball falls to BYU

Volleyball continues to dominate

By Ricardo Avila

By Stasia Demick

On Thursday night, the men’s basketball team relinquished a 12-point lead early in the second half to fall against BYU. The Waves, who seemed to be in total control of the game, couldn’t maintain the momentum necessary to defeat the third-seeded Cougars. Despite freshman forward Stacy Davis’ 17-point contribution, the Waves were unable to rally back in time to tie the game and force a potential overtime period. Overall, the Waves finished with a better shooting percentage than their rivals, 42.3 percent to 41.7 percent but were overpowered by the Cougars’ offensive prowess. BYU scored a total of 43 points in the second half. The feisty Waves were lowered to No. 7 in the standings ahead of Saturday afternoon’s big game against San Francisco, which also ended in defeat, 86-78. Pepperdine Coach Marty Wilson said, “We played hard. Our guys are getting it. They are understanding what it takes.” The increasing familiarity and team chemistry will surely come in handy for the Waves, who will be visiting conference rivals and top teams in the conference, Gonzaga and Portland on Thursday (Feb. 7) and Saturday (Feb. 9).

The No. 4 Waves finished off No. 8 USC 3-1 last Friday, at Firestone Fieldhouse. The fan section was set ablaze by Josh Taylor’s 16 kills and Maurice Torres’ 15. Final set scores were a tight 25-23, 25-18, 25-27, 2522. USC dominated the block stats with 16 total versus Pepperdine’s 6. This is the second time this season the Waves have been out-blocked; however USC couldn’t come back from Nikola Antonijevic and Kyle Gerrans’ 5-0 run that sealed the Trojans’ fate in the fourth game. So far this season, the mens volleyball team has been unbeatable on the courts at home. The team played No. 3 Long Beach State on Wednesday who beat previously undefeated BYU earlier this season, and beat the Waves in both games against them last semester. But the Waves dominated on the courts to end the game decisively in 3-0. Volleyball also plays No. 10 Cal State Northridge later in the week on Friday, who they played in split meetings last season. This will be a tough match against strong teams. “They play very consistent volleyball so we have to be ready to block and dig some balls.” said senior Maurice Torres.

Assistant Sports Editor

Staff Writer

Connor Wheeler / PHOTO ASSISTANT g

ricardo.avilaalvarez@pepperdine.edu

NOTHING BUT NET — Freshman Jett Raines dunks in front of energized fans during the home game against BYU in Firestone on Jan. 31.

stasia.demick@pepperdine.edu

Imaginations and allegations run wild about Super Bowl blackout

By Halli Spraggins Staff Writer

Who even pays attention to the Super Bowl these days, especially when your favorite team isn’t competing? It was all about the commercials and Beyonce’s halftime show for Super Bowl XLVII. I mean, who doesn’t want to sneak out of a nursing home and go to Taco Bell? Whether or not you’re tired of the E-Trade baby, he’s back again this year! Though the baby is still as witty and

hilarious as ever, many viewers have failed to notice the cast change. The original E-Trade baby Manolo Gonzalez, who warmed our hearts and put stiches in our sides with his first commercial in 2007, just turned 5 years old. The babies may have been swapped out, but comedian Pete Holmes continues his contract with E-Trade as the voice for the babies. E-Trade debuted a new commercial during the 2013 Super Bowl, with the baby explaining all the various things you can do with the money

you can save by using E-Trade. Wouldn’t you want to travel to outer space with your dog or chill in a hot tub with a panda? This year’s Super Bowl ads made an effort to appeal to those wives and girlfriends watching the game. Calvin Klein model Matthew Terry made jaws drop during his appearance in the CK commercials. On behalf of every woman who watched the Super Bowl, I would like to say thank you to Terry for making Super Bowl XLVII that much better.

Above and beyond the hilarious commericals is the subject of every Facebook status and tweet: Beyonce’s halftime performance and the surprise appearance of the whole Destiny’s Child crew. What a brilliant marketing move. Over that weekend, Beyonce’s digital album sales increased by 230 percent while the sales of her group Destiny’s Child jumped up more than 600 percent. On top of that, the group’s new compilation “Love Songs” was released just a few days before the big game. The

album features the top love songs released by the group from 1997 to 2004, including a new single, “Nuclear.” The performance had fans craving more of Beyonce and Destiny’s Child — well played. Despite the funny commercials and outstanding halftime performance, viewers are still raving about the blackout. People have speculated causes ranging from the lack of a smart grid to a sign from the Illuminati. Fans in the stands were anxiously perched on the edge of their stadi-

um seats waiting for Bane to emerge. The 30-minute delay in the game came at an opportune time for 49ers fans, as it marked the start of their 17-point streak that cut the final score to a much closer 34-31. Now that the season is over, NFL fans can start counting down the days until their beloved teams play again. And for those of us who only watch one football game a year, let’s begin the countdown to Super Bowl XLVIII. g

halli.spraggins@pepperdine.edu