29 October 2021
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There’s a Motley-shaped Hole in Our Hearts – Will It Ever Be Filled? rector of The Motley, and The Motley head managers. “We are hoping to get it open this semester… we are really trying to make it work. It also depends on what the administration expects from us and they really expect a lot from us now, especially with COVID,” said Pereira. “I feel like we're very hopeful to [open in] some capacity, whatever that looks like. Even if the space is open and we're not serving any cof fee or anything…I think [it] is hopefully feasible.” said Thomason. Upon its reopening, the staff is try create a more inclusive environment for students. According to Medha Gelli ’23, a former events manager, this includes a narrower focus on sus tainability and physical accessibility through the creation of committees among the managers and baristas. “The [sustainability] subcommit tee was…making sure that all the in gredients of the things we were sell ing [have] labels…We were trying to Photo by Chloe Gorman '22
By Lindsay Ravetz ’25 and Belen Yudess ’25 Staff Writers
W
walk by Seal Court, they see a va cant building with dark blinds shield ing the windows. Juniors and seniors see this area as it once was: the heart of Scripps culture, otherwise known as The Motley Coffeehouse. “The longest line would be right when we opened at 8 a.m.,” said Victoria Genao ’22, a former music manager for The Motley, “It would go out the door.” Those who have never experienced the vibrancy of The Mot ley have one question on their minds: what is going on? The Motley has been closed since March 2020 when Scripps shut down last spring. Upon returning to cam pus, students believed the reopen ing of the Motley would be on the horizon. Much to the dismay of the Scripps community, the Motley has remained closed, even though other 5C cafes, such as Pitzer’s The Pit Stop, and Pomona’s The Coop Foun tain, have opened. run business, traditionally employs around 60 baristas and 10 manag
ers. At the bare minimum, The Motley requires one head manager, as well as facilities, products, and personnel managers. This past summer, only three to four managers indicated that they were willing to return in full capacity due to the heavy workload and pres sures of these positions. Without a full staff, it was challenging to take the necessary steps to begin the pro cess of reopening. However, after returning to campus person learning, many students are eager to join The Motley team. The fo cus has now shifted to training man agers and staff as quickly as possibly. “We are really speed lining everything,” said former Lead Barista Diya Pereira ’22. “The problem is …getting trained by Bon Appetite…We also have to hire new managers and hire baristas.” While some obstacles have been overcome, a much greater one still stands. Since the closing of the Mot ley, delayed communication, Scripps administration has prevented Motley leadership from taking further action to reopen as soon as possible. “I think we just honestly weren’t a priority,” said Genao. A small group of former Motley em ployees have been spearheading the
struggle to reopen the coffeehouse as soon as possible. This includes se niors Julia Thomason ’22, Uma Naga originally being told that The Motley would not be opening in Fall 2021, Pereira had a strong reaction. “I had a big issue with that be cause…you are taking away a piece of the community, you are putting people out of jobs who are relying [on working] at the Motley and [having] that source of income,” Pereira said. “It’s a space on campus that is cen tral to Scripps. I can't imagine Scripps without The Motley.” The clock is ticking on preserving The Motley’s culture, as seniors are the only class who have experienced a full year of Scripps’ beloved cafe. Managers reminisce on their time at The Motley fondly. “We would be blasting music, usu ally Kali Uchis or, I don’t know, some thing upbeat,” said Genao. “You can chat with the baristas…and then the sitting room space is usually super crowded.” Former staff agree that there is protocols in place. This is dependent upon communication between ad ministration, the faculty primary di
[of] waste water as well,” said Gelli. Additional plans to remodel The Mot ley were put to a halt, but conversa tions to make the entryway to the cafe more accessible for people with wheelchairs and other needs contin ued. Gelli then said, “We were all work ing towards the same theme…trying to make The Motley better one step at a time.” From daily innovative whipped cream flavors to the Valentine’s Day Drag Show, The Motley was a unify ing force within the Scripps commu nity and helped showcase the vibrant student body. “The Motley [is] not only geographically the center of campus, but it really was the heart of all social life in my opinion,” said Genao. This is a shared sentiment among many upperclassmen, who consis tently express utter shock when re have never stepped foot in the coffee house. “I feel so bad…Honestly fresh men and sophomore year were two of the best years of my college experi ence here…And that was because of The Motley,” said Periera. It is safe to say that the community is anxiously awaiting The Motley to liven up Seal Court. “I’ve had enough of this weird vibe,” said Pereira. “I need my coffee. I need to be around the people I love. And I want other people to be a part of that.”
IN THIS ISSUE Q&A with First Year Class President Abbie Oh Arroyo
Super Seniors Search for Community
"Ghost" Poem by Aviva Maxon
COVID Safe Style: A Masterclass in Masks
1030 Columbia Avenue | Claremont, CA 91711 | Box 839 | scrippsvoice@gmail.com | Volume XXX | Issue One
2 • News
Scripps Transitions to SHS COVID-19 Testing
By Ellen Hu ’24, Alyssa Leong ’23 Copy Editor, Design Editor
O
n Oct. 4, Scripps students received an email from Interim President Amy Marcus-Newhall announcing that COVID-19 testing would no longer be administered at the 240 House. Instead, the college would transition to testing solely at Student Health Services (SHS). “Relocating student testing to SHS will streamline students’ access to testing and align Scripps’ student testing protocols with those of most of the other Claremont Colleges,” said Newhall in the message. “We are making this change to increase students’ compliance with the College’s weekly testing requirement, which is essential to protecting the ongoing health and safety of our entire community.” Prior to this announcement, Scripps was the only college that was holding independent testing; nurses and Scripps staff held testing at the 240 House. Students made appointments through the Healthfully app to get a nasal swab COVID-19 test. Results were usually returned to students within two to three days. “Relcocating student testing to SHS will streamline students’ access to testing.” - Interim President Amy Marcus-Newhall SHS uses saliva COVID-19 testing. Students can now get tested at Pomona College’s Walker Hall, Harvey Mudd College’s Hoch-Shanahan Dining Commons East Patio, or the Tranquada Center. Unlike the nose swab tests conducted at the 240 House, saliva tests at SHS require students not to consume any liquids or food one hour before their test. Additionally, application of chapstick and brushing teeth can interfere with test results.
In a follow-up email, Interim Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students Adrianna diBartowould be assigned to get tested on certain days. First year students are assigned to Mondays, sophomores are assigned to Tuesdays, juniors are assigned to Wednesdays, and seniors are assigned to Thursdays. Students who were not able to get tested earlier in the week can get tested on Fridays. While students no longer have to schedule appointments to get tested through the Healthfully app, weekly symptom tracking surveys on the app are still required. Vaccisurvey every Monday, while unvacchecks. However, according to Scripps College’s COVID-19 dashboard, 99 percent of students and 96 percent of employees are vaccinated. Since Sept. 3, the school has reported three positive student cases and three positive employee cases. Scripps’ policies for a positive test remain the same as the beginning of the year, according to the Scripps Strong website. Upon receiving a positive test, students will be contacted by the location that provided their test, as well as their dean on call. The student will be moved to an off-campus isolation space for 1012 days, with food being delivered from Malott Dining Commons. However, students who have been in close contact with other students who have tested positive are put in are allowed to stay in their residence, attend classes, attend SHS appointments, attend Malott commons and use shared bathrooms, but they must remain masked and cannot attend any social events on or off campus. Additionally, the Scripps helpline at (909)-308-2711 must be called
upon a positive test of close contact. This is also a Scripps Nurse triage line, which helps students evaluate symptoms, and if necessary, advises testing, isolation or quarantine. Students who do not comply with weekly tests will be reprimanded in student does not get tested, they will receive a warning email. After they suspended. With the transition from 240 House to SHS testing, many students found warning emails in their inboxes despite the fact that they had tested at the 240 House location. “The results do arrive much quicker (now)... if you’re worried that you may have COVID-19 it’s much easier to isolate yourself.” - Jacqueline Loh ’22
Nastia Kurochkina ’21 received one of these emails over fall break. In the email, she was alerted that SHS did not have any records that she had completed a COVID-19 test during the fall semester and warned her that further lack of testing would result in more disciplinary action. Kurochkina, who had completed a COVID-19 test at SHS the week prior to receiving the email, was initially worried. Yet, after emailing Dean diBartolo-Beckman explaining her situation, she was reassured that she would not face further disciplinary action. “I’ve read through the procedures and I think what the college is implementing is perfectly reasonable,” said Kurochkina. “It’s just really frustrating when you do get tested, get your negative results back, and then receive a [warning] email.” While Dean diBartolo-Beckman’s quick response counteracted the
initial stress of receiving the email, Kurochkina was still annoyed. do things separately and then decided to join SHS, we kind of have to adjust half-way through the semester and it’s just such a mess,” she said. More problems arose surrounding communications of results from the 240 House location. Some students who got tested at the Scripps location the week before transitioning to SHS did not receive the results from their tests. Jacqueline Loh ’22 was one of these students. She and a friend completed their tests on the Thursday before the transition but have yet to receive their results for that day. “I think maybe something happened in the transition from 240 [House] to Student Health [Services], but I think it’s a little ridiculous that this is still happening in October,” said Loh. “It’s halfway through the semester.” Still, students have found that testing at SHS has been a good pressed by students has been the quick turnaround for results. “I liked 240 [House] because it was closer and faster for the nose said Loh. “I do like getting the results faster.” Kurochkina echoed this sentiment, emphasizing how the quick reshowing possible symptoms. “I am really glad that they’re doing the saliva tests because the results do arrive much quicker and so I do think that if you’re worried that you may have COVID-19 it’s much easier to isolate yourself,” she said. If students have questions about Scripps’ COVID-19 testing policies, more information can be found on the Scripps Strong Website. Scripps’ testing results can be found on the COVID-19 dashboard.
Student’s Guide to Flex and Claremont Cash By Cecelia Blum ’24 Design Editor
T
he nature of orientation this year has left many new and returning students with questions regarding various aspects of campus life. One common question, among many about campus dining, is about Flex Dollars and Claremont Cash. What are they? What is the difference? And most importantly, where can I spend them? The primary difference between Claremont Cash and Flex Dollars is how they are acquired. Flex Dollars (also called Board Plus) are included in the meal plan, and the amount of Flex depends on the meal plan. The 19-meal plan comes with $190 flex dollars per semester, the 16-meal plan comes with $160 Flex Dollars per semester, and the 12-meal plan comes with $120 Flex Dollars per semester. Flex Dollars do not roll
over from one semester to the next, so any surplus flex will go to waste if not used by the end of the What are (Flex and Claremont Cash)... and most importantly, where can I spend them? semester. Claremont Cash, on the other hand, is not included with a meal plan, and must be added to your account by you or another party, such as a parent. Claremont Cash will remain in your account until graduation, and you can withdraw at any time. You can add money online or via phone for a $1 fee. If you want to avoid the fee, you can add money by visiting the Connection at Honnold-Mudd. You are likely familiar with Claremont Cash, since it is the only way to pay for laundry on campus. What you may not know is that you can also spend Claremont
Cash at any location on campus, including the Scripps Store, and at many off campus locations as well. These retailers include: 42nd Street Bagel, Domino’s Pizza on Foothill Blvd, Hendricks Pharmacy, Jamba Juice, Legends Burgers, Pizza ‘n Such, Round Table Pizza, Some Crust Bakery, Wolfe’s Market, and Z Pizza. So pizza lovers, you’re in luck. Flex Dollars can only be spent around the 5Cs, and due to our limited dining options this year, they can technically only be used at two places — Malott Commons and the HMC Café (also called MuddBucks). You can use flex at Malott in the event that you run out of meal swipes, you can swipe in for the cost of a few Flex Dollars, depending on the meal. In pre-pandemic times, Scripps students could use flex dollars at all of the undergraduate dining halls, as well as 5C retail locations such as The Scripps Store and
the Coop, and at other 5C dining locations, such as Jay’s Place, Pit Stop, and the Hub. When crosscampus dining is reinstated and the Motley opens, students will be able to use Flex Dollars there as Remember, we only have about seven weeks in the semester, so if you haven’t already – get to spending, and keep your fingers crossed for the returnof the Motley. well. To use Flex Dollars, simply hand the cashier your card and tell them you want to pay with Flex. Remember, we only have about seven weeks left in the semester, so if you haven’t already- get to spending, and keep your fingers crossed for the return of the Motley.
29 October 2021 • The Scripps Voice • Volume XXX • Issue One
News • 3
Get to know the First-Year Class President: Abbie Oh Arroyo!
your target. So you try to stick a sticker on their back without them
By Belen Yudess ’25 Staff Writer
O
do a karaoke gaming night, bring in a boba truck. I also mentioned doing a beach day in winter if the weather’s nice enough, maybe spirit weeks. October is spooky season. This is a bigger event idea, so I might have to dip into the budget for this one, but it’d be really fun to do a showing of the Korean show Squid
n Sept. 30, Abbie Oh Arroyo ’25, was announced the winner of
president, winning more than 50 percent of the 185 validated votes. Oh Arroyo, the daughter of a Mexican father and Korean mother, notes that her ethnicity is a driving force behind her passion for diversity, equity, and inclusivity. On a typical day, Oh Arroyo can be found heading to her morning Korean or Core class followed by a visit to Roberts Pavilion to exercise and socialize. A Claremont local, she enjoys exploring the village and visiting a self-described “curated thrift store” called Deeluxe. Oh Arroyo plans on majoring in political to reform the education system as a catalyst for social change. The Scripps Voice (TSV): Why did you run for first-year president? Oh Arroyo (OA): I was involved in student government at my old school. So I knew that that was something I wanted to continue here at Scripps. I’m the type of person that when I feel like things need to change, I step in. There was a lot of feedback on how we basically didn’t have any bonding So I wanted to make that happen. Also speaking to other students, especially students of color about their experiences with coming to terms with being at a PWI or just having to relive that again, after being away in quarantine, it was a lot. So I just really want to be a force to help people bond and welcome people with open arms. I just want to make a comfortable environment for people. TSV: How do you feel that your past leadership experiences have helped prepare you for this particular role? OA: I definitely think communication is huge — not just in student government, but through other positions I’ve had with stage managing, orchestra and being a part of an all women just all about community and communication and being able to read your audience and tell what they need; what they want from you. Also making sure that there’s a bridge between students and admin so that students don’t necessarily feel intimidated by power, but rather understand that because this is their institution, they should have the power to shape it as they want it.
Photo by Chloe Gorman ’22
TSV: During your campaign video, you encouraged people to lead with empathy, understanding, and open-mindedness. How are you planning on motivating this leadership style? OA: I think leading by example is like a good way to do that, which is hard...how do you lead by example? I will never forget my Dean who said you need to learn to not be afraid of being awkward. Everyone is anxious, everyone wants to make friends, just be open, be welcoming and warm to people. TSV: Are there any pressing issues that you want to bring up during your first couple of meetings in SAS? OA: These are more personal issues, but I have issues with the dorm and dorm conditions, like the ACs. And honestly, I don’t know who to bring that up to. I would like that issue to be addressed. Please are having issues with laundry too. I really just want to help people settle. I know we’re not all going to be friends but just be there for each other. Bonding right now is the main concern, especially coming back from quarantine. I understand that making friends can be hard, especially being out of practice with socializing in
general. We did also bring up the putting period products in the bathrooms. TSV: How are you going to ensure that the voices of the class of 2025 are heard and acted upon? Class of 2025 Instagram to make posts or reminders for people or if to see just DM the account and I’ll get back to them. I think it’d also people want to come in and talk, I can bring snacks, and we can have a good time. Just creating a space where people can even just rant or vent about things that they are unhappy with. I’m down to listen. If there’s something that you truly want to see, please, please let me know. You don’t have to just be okay with anything. I want you to be happy with the way things are going. TSV: What kind of events can OA: I want to challenge myself, see if I can do monthly events, especially with the holidays coming up. Maybe not major Someone mentioned playing assassin, which is when you get a name in an envelope, which is
doing a donation drive for a local organization or the Galilee center, which is a center for released ICE detainees, could be a good way to get the community together. TSV: This question was a recommendation from a fellow peer who really loved this part of your campaign. Inspired by the karaoke/boba night idea, what is your favorite karaoke song and boba? OA: Well, my favorite artist is Mitski. Oh, you know what, if I start singing Mitski, I will probably start crying. So I’m not going to do Mitski, but I do enjoy songs that get people very much hyped. So a lot of old Taylor Swift, like “Love Story.” That’s like my go-to song. “Love Story,” the Taylor version. And my favorite boba flavor…this dependent on the weather. In warmer weather, I prefer fruit teas. So a lot of lychee with aloe jelly or boba. And then in colder weather, I prefer milk teas: brown sugar milk tea with boba, something more warm and comforting. Some good boba places in the village are Tea and Joy and CK AM. So if you guys ever want Boba late at night, go to CK Cafe in the village. TSV: Is there anything else you would like to say to the Class of 2025? OA: I mean I already put out a thank you statement but really, truly, it means a lot to have that much support behind me. To know that so many people have their trust and put their faith in me to carry this out. It’s a big job and I’m a little intimidated, as a freshman, to kind of go in and hit the ground running again, just coming back from quarantine senior year being, like all right, let’s do this again. You know? I’m ready though. And, I’m very honored to have this position and I really do want our freshman year of college to be one to remember. I want these “golden days” to be good for you all and to make it memorable and I’m going to do my best to just make it great.
29 October 2021 • The Scripps Voice • Volume XXX • Issue One
4 • Features
Super Seniors Search for Community as They Return to Campus By Ellen Hu ‘24 Copy Editor
A
the last few weeks of her junior year over Zoom, she knew that
This is not the case for all super
onto campus. She left campus as a a leave of absence for the following fall semester. “It was way more important that I give myself the chance at having one
in the spring of 2020 when campus “I was only on campus with the
absence to enjoy Spain for one more semester, although her plans were cut hit. Upon return, it was the lack of an
of absence, a choice that became
Photo by Ellen Hu ‘24
support system. “I’ve been slowly getting to know people or just meeting people in small
semester off. However, upon return, this sense of lacking a Scripps community has
really helpful because just knowing
most important thing for me is the
These interactions between
makes me feel like this is more my
people or having that community has to take the 2020-2021 school year off. While Vhugen was the first of
However, just because they are
previously know.
While there have been challenges
Lev believes that this is in-part the opportunity to take a leave of
reason for taking a leave of absence: community. “All of us were really remembering how much joy we get out of the connection with other
there be nothing to really facilitate the
Still, the initial sense of isolation As a result, her transition back to campus has been fairly smooth. “I am very fortunate in that most of my
campus life before the fall 2021 semester. “I just feel like I know so much more
sense to me here because I’ve known
of her classmates chose to continue through online classes because it
agree that taking a leave of absence
to make Scripps feel like her own.
Laura Kipnis Creates Chaos After Speaking at CMC Athenaeum By Jihae Oh CMC ‘24 Staff Writer n Oct. 6, culture critic Laura
O
a trigger warning for the talk
against survivors. A banner went up the support for survivors.
Kipnis is a professor emerita in
more I saw his case as a lens hypocrisies of the current campus
in response to the negative
Kipnis in her book.
writes that Northwestern professor,
In 2017, Kipnis spoke at Wellesley
Northwestern University. In 2015, of those working to make the Title In the article, she argues that the a victim blaming mentality that has
Awareness for Everyone (SAAFE)
email went out after the talk from resources for any community
a survivor as a survivor, Kipnis
on their Instagram “Survivors, we
this to their stories, combatting the
IX complaints against Kipnis for
investigation on Kipnis. the Title IX case against him along
arguments. Kipnis’s visit to both Wellesley question the process through which speakers are brought to campus. for a high-functioning community, not have a place on a liberal arts campus?
29 October 2021 • The Scripps Voice • Volume XXX • Issue One
Features • 5
Scripps Voice: Halloween Crossword
ACROSS 6 Actor who played Frank-NFurter in The Rocky Horror Picture Show; Indian dish 7 Say his name three times and he’ll scare the living away 8 The state of the chainsawwielding slasher film 10 Movie Title: Three Sisters come alive to torment three humans and a 300 year old cat; ‘It’s just a bunch of ____” 13 The spookiest month of the year 19 Raggedy Ann of your nightmares 22 M. Jackson song featuring the voice talents of Vincent Price 23 The Muppets released a film based on this Disney ride in 2021 29 Most famous vampire (pre2008); “Son of the Dragon”
30 Pumpkin King turned Sandy Claws: Jack ____ 32 The largest of this fallflavored dessert was more than 6m in diameter and weighed more than 350 pounds. 33 It’s the Great ____, Charlie Brown 36 There are this many films in the “Halloween” franchise 37 Jamie Lee ___; “Halloween’s” Laurie 39 Hitchcock Film, 1960 41 The ____-Man, he hides under your bed and kidnaps children 42 Creepy and kooky family 43 __ The Dummy; Goosebumps creation 44 The Gaelic holiday our Halloween is based off of 45 “They’re coming to get you, ___” - Night of the Living Dead
DOWN 1 The most popular halloween costume 2 Mike/Michael - one is Austin Powers, one is a serial killer 3 The Tibetan Snowman of the Himalayas; featured in Disney/ Pixar’s Monster’s Inc 4 D. Ackroyd’s character in Ghostbusters 5 Most popular halloween candy 9 Jareth was the ___ King, played by David Bowie 11 “supernatural, mystical, or magical beliefs, practices, or phenomena” 12 R. L. _____; Author of Goosebumps series 14 T. Swift’s Lucky number; beware if on a Friday 15 Mary Shelley’s Scientist 16 ‘The 6th _____’; “I see dead people”
17 The first name of the trinamed queen of Tim Burton films 18 Last name of psychic duo at the center of The Conjuring 20 You can pick, bob, or press this fruit in autumn 21 Ghostbusters’ green monster 24 Protagonist of the “Halloweentown” Franchise 25 Use this to scare vampires away 26 ____ O’Lantern 27 Edward Cullen 28 The mask of Jason 31 Jim Henson’s 1986 film, David Bowie stars 34 Clown from ‘It’ 35 Mystery solving pup 38 8-legged arachnid 40 “I put a ___ on you, and now you’re mine” Answers on pg. 8
29 October 2021 • The Scripps Voice • Volume XXX • Issue One
Opinion • 8
Scripps students face burnout: transition back on campus proves stressful
By Alyssa Wend ‘24 Copy Editor Intern
I
n the midst of writing this article, I was burnt out—I felt completely overwhelmed from the combination of classwork and trying to balance life on campus for the first time. This has been a common feeling for students this semester as many have faced both academic and mental burnout. The experience of being back on campus in a year and a half, or for some the first time ever, has led to many students feeling more academic pressure as a result of their expectations of finally being back at Scripps. “[I’ve had] some breakdowns because I put so much pressure on coming back and everything being so much easier now that I’m not online, but it doesn’t resolve itself immediately by being in person,” Isabel Evans ‘23 said. Having lived on campus this past summer while working at Denison Library, Evans felt that the transition to in-person classes was easier as she eased back into in-person academics. However, even with this advantage, the combination of school, personal life, and mental health caused Evans to burn out. “I wasn’t getting enough sleep, I was doing work all the time, and as a consequence I didn’t have the energy I needed to,” Evans said. Prekshi Lohia ‘24 felt similarly, finding that being on campus for the first time added to the stress of her fall semester.
“I put so much pressure on coming back and everything being so much easier now that I’m not online, but it doesn’t resolve itself immediately by being in person.” - Isabel Evans ’23 “Here it’s much harder to stop studying because you’re constantly feeling like you haven’t studied enough,” Lohia said. “Coming into college as a sophomore is very different, even though people say it’s not, it is. You have to adjust to the whole college life and the tempo of working and balancing all of that.” Contrary to last year, this semester had a fall break from October 16 to 19. While this short break was a chance for students to unwind, many students had assignments due right before and after. As a result, they spent most of their time studying. “When I came back from fall break, it didn’t really feel like a break because I was coming back to more work,” Lohia said. “Even in my fall break I was studying and I didn’t get a full minute to breathe.” While it was not a traditional break, students like Evans who
Graphic Courtesy of Pixabay
went home felt more positive about the experience, especially when comparing it to last year. “They didn’t do fall break last year and I couldn’t manage, so I think it’s really nice to have a builtin ‘okay you need to take some time for yourself’ even if it’s only a little bit,” Evans said. “I was writing an entire paper during fall break so it wasn’t able to be a true break for me, but it was really nice to be in a different space and go a little slower.” Although many students are feeling burnt out, being back on campus has been able to create a sense of community by allowing students to feel more supported by professors. Asking for extensions and talking to professors during office hours when having a hard time has been something that has helped both Evans and Lohia. “Being in person, it reminds you that [professors are] people too and they also have various things going on in their lives,” Evans said. “I think that they’ve been really supportive and helpful and it’s really helped a lot knowing that the professors that I’ve had at Scripps really genuinely want you to be happy and learn.” Aside from outside support, students have found various strategies that have helped them with burnout, whether it’s meditation, coloring, therapy, or taking time for themselves. “I do something every day, whether that’s go to sleep early, go for a run, or spend five minutes with a friend,” Evans said. Lohia shares this sentiment of finding time for herself. “Spending time with my friends [helps] because we’re all in the same boat,” Lohia said, “there is an understanding that we all have work to do and we all want a break.”
Crossword Answers Across: 6. Curry 7. Beetlejuice 8. Texas 10. Hocus Pocus 13. October 19. Annabelle 22. Thriller 23. Haunted Mansion 29. Dracula 30. Skellington 32. Pie 33. Pumpkin 36. Twelve 37. Curtis 39. Psycho 41. Bogey 42. Addams 43. Slappy 44. Samhain 45. Barbara 46. Freddie
Down: 1. Witch 2. Myers 3. Yeti 4. Stantz 5. Reeses 9. Goblin 11. Occult 12. Stine 14. Thirteen 15. Frankenstein 16. Sense 17. Helena 18. Warren 20. Apple 21. Slimer 24. Marnie 25. Garlic 26. Jack 27. Vampire 28. Hockey 31. Labyrinth 34. Pennywise 35. Scooby 38. Spider 40. Spell
29 October 2021 • The Scripps Voice • Volume XXX • Issue One
Opinion • 9 The Importance of “Shang Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings” Spans Far Beyond the Screen
Photo Courtesy of NME
By Aanji Sin ’24 Copy Editor Whenever I talk or write anything about the lack of Asian representation in American media, I like to bring up Halloween c o s t u m e s . I t ’s t h e n e g l i g e n t example of casual white privilege at work that I’ve been hyperfixated on since I learned what race issues even were. Little white girls had their pick from Cinderella and Snow White and Elsa and Rapunzel, and I had an overused and historically inaccurate Mulan qipao. I can count on ten fingers the Asian characters in popular media that I had to look up to as a kid—the good representation and the bad. Which is why, in the spirit of Halloween, “Shang Chi” is so important. “Shang Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings,” Marvel’s first Asian American superhero movie, was released in theatres on Sept. 3 and proceeded to demolish the Labor Day box office record with $71.4 million in three days. It became the second highest box office opening for any movie released during the pandemic. The significance of being Marvel’s, and really the world’s, first Asian superhero is not an achievement to be regarded lightly. Just like “Crazy Rich Asians” paved the way for East Asians in romantic comedies, “Shang Chi”
is another landmark success that demonstrates our burgeoning versatility in roles across American popular media. Asians are officially more than just the man in the chair; we are writing our own stories, we are subverting the tropes. Getting a superhero? It redefines more than one might think. I think what gets me the most about “Shang Chi” is how genuinely respectful it is of Chinese culture— unfortunately, this is still something to be praised when it happens. Normalizing faces of color in roles and tropes occupied predominantly by white faces is the next step towards leaving behind the narratives constructed for us Characters practiced consistent and fluid use of Mandarin, in which sections featured both English and Mandarin character subtitles. Fight sequences were choreographed in traditional forms of Chinese kung fu, with all of the rushing adrenaline of a classic Marvel action sequence while incorporating references to other on-screen Chinese martial artists (Jackie Chan jacket move, I’m looking at you). These aspects of Chinese culture are treated without a sense of foreignity or mysticism attached to them, drastically different from how Western media has historically regarded the culture of the “Oriental.” Mandarin is spoken lovingly
between a mother and son, by the villain warlord is startling moments of powerful vulnerability, between family members poking fun at each other at the breakfast table, through proverbs and sage advice. Kung fu can be fought on the battlegrounds of an ancient Chinese village and on the scaffolding of a building while hundreds of feet in the air, and it looks cool every time. Chinese culture becomes accessible. With all of its cultural accuracy, “Shang Chi” continues to remain outside the box of a token film. There is no underlying metaphor for oppression, there is no white villain or theme of colonization, there is nothing that inherently ties the story of “Shang Chi” to an inherently East Asian experience. The same story could just as easily be applied to a superhero of Latinx, or Black, or Southwest Asian descent. With some tweaks to the world-building, they would make just as impactful a movie to their respective cultural groups. I believe that these are the kinds of stories that matter now the most— stories with Asian faces at the I don’t say all of this to suggest that “Shang Chi” has cured racism or bridged some monstrous gap in representation. It hasn’t. front of them, Asian just because they can be. Normalizing faces of color in roles and tropes occupied predominantly by white faces is the next step towards leaving
behind the narratives constructed for us. The world doesn’t need any more movies about Asian oppression. I care more about how the Asian American shows up in pop culture—what space do they occupy? Are they memorable as people? Are they only included to fulfill some ulterior motive? I don’t say all of this to suggest that “Shang Chi” has cured racism or bridged some monstrous gap in representation. It hasn’t. Everything still sucks. I’m still fighting off Twitter users replying under the official “Shang Chi” account who “didn’t get it” or “were thrown off by the subtitles,” because the fact is that it’s going to suck a lot more until it gets better. Representation— good representation—is a slow development. It’s not easily solved by a couple of above-average movies with majority Asian casts a n d a n i n f l u x o f To n y L e u n g fancams, but I believe that it’s something worth waiting for. What I’m really trying to say here is that this movie means a lot. Shang Chi is just a character to some, but he’s a symbol of something real and good for an entire community. I just thought about a group of elementaryaged superheroes trick-or-treating around the neighborhood and welcoming their friend dressed in spray-painted dragon scale armor and five cardboard rings on each forearm, and it made me kind of emotional. It means a lot, that’s all.
29 October 2021 • The Scripps Voice • Volume XXX • Issue One
Arts and Entertainment• 10
Seven Things to Do Off Campus A First Year’s Guide to the Claremont Area By Lindsay Ravetz ’25 Staff Writer
natural beauty of the vast mountainscape.
If you’re like me and you’re itching to get off campus, but excessive amounts of homework prevent you from doing anything but stare at your computer screen, you’re in luck! I’ve done the dirty work something to do, so give your brain a break from the 5Cs for a bit. Here is a collection of activities in the area that are accessible, affordable, and most importantly, fun! 1. The Claremont Wilderness Trail is located only 15 minutes from campus in the Claremont Hills Wilderness loop, you can take in the
enough to get your endorphins flowing, Potato Mountain from Claremont Wilderness Park may be more desirable. It is a nine mile trail that will present you with even more gorgeous mountain views. 3. Angeles National Forest also has a wide range of trails to choose from. From easy walks to strenuous hikes, there is an option for every style of hiker. Gather some friends, bring sandwiches and a picnic blanket, and bask in the sun during your day outside of the library. 4. The California Botanic
Garden right in Claremont can provide you with the touch of nature, without all the trouble of ascending a mountain. Tickets are only $6.00 if you arrive with a student ID, but they must be purchased in advance online. 5. The Claremont Museum of Art is within walking distance from campus, making for the perfect quick day trip. It features local artists and its exhibits change regularly, so you can rely on this small museum to continue to bring a fresh pop of creativity to Claremont. 6. Mission Tiki DriveIn Theatre is perfect for a chill night out with friends. Unlike your typical drive-
in experience, Mission Tiki shows newly released movies — so if you’re dying to see Timothée Chalamet on the big screen, get your tickets to see “Dune” now. It is cheaper than the local theater in the village, but the obvious caveat is that you need a car to attend. 7. Last but not least, check out Venegas Family Farms if you are craving a taste of fall. This is a quaint pumpkin patch where you can pick the perfect head for your jack-o’-lantern or a gourd to decorate your desk in the halloween spirit. Bring some markers, and your goodies from the farm will make great canvases to doodle on. Happy adventuring!
Photo Courtesy of Tony Webster Photo Courtesy of Daily Bulletin
Photo Courtesy of Discover Claremont
Photo Courtesy of Earl Leatherberry
Photo Courtesy of California Botanic Garden
Photo Courtesy of Yelp
29 October 2021 • The Scripps Voice • Volume XXX • Issue One
Photo Courtesy of pxfuel
Entertainment • 11
COVID Safe Style : A Masterclass in Masks
By Maddie Moore ‘22 Fashion Columnist
O
ur return to campus meant donning a new, mandatory accessory: “ I n L o s A n g e l e s C o u n t y, individuals two years of age and older must wear a mask in all indoor places (including indoor classrooms), whether they have been vaccinated or not” read the Aug. 12 email sent by Interim Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students Dean di Bartolo-Beckman.
A colorful mask can ensure
Upon hearing this news, about one thing I was absolutely positive: I needed to up my mask game. Over the past year and a half the only people who had seen my masked face were In-N-Out employees — either the ones on my shift or the ones who handed me my Neopolitan shake every Saturday. But I knew the two massive black masks I used to hide my face so acquaintances from high school wouldn’t notice me at Target were just not going to cut it — literally, because I could not hygienically survive off of only two masks if I wanted to avoid The Novel Coronavirus. So my quest to achieve the COVID-avoider assortment of my dreams began. What do I look for in a mask? My 50 pack of disposable pink surgicals and the handful of pink KN95s my mom mysteriously dropped in my room one day indicate that I welcome any opportunity to pink-ify an outfit. A colorful mask can ensure a
Photo by Maddie Moore ‘22
more cohesive fit by bringing out an accent color or print, and are great for hiding your face from an accidental Tinder Super-Like. I also appreciate that, like stickers on a laptop or posters on a dorm wall, masks can be tools to proudly trumpet your nerdy obsessions to the world. I met with resident mask fashion aficionado Isabella Melsheimer ‘22 to get their take. Melsheimer is a Scripps fashion icon, with pink hair and a pink fashion sense that I am incredibly jealous of. Every time I see them in Seal Court, it is as if my Pinterest “fashion inspo <3” board has come to life. According to my sources, they also star ted making the SICKEST masks over quarantine, so I knew I simply had to get their take. To d a y M e l s h e i m e r w a s
sporting a Twilight baby tee layered on top of a neon pink long sleeve with light wash jeans, planet earrings, and a bejeweled belt that spelled out “BITCH.” Most of their outfit was thrifted, with the exception of the Twilight tee, which they got off of the Etsy store mustardyardpress (as a third grade Twihead, it was absolutely mandatory that I flirted with buying it after our interview). Their mask of the day was a hot pink cloth one with lace trimming that they had made themselves.
Melsheimer’s two favorite types of masks are homemade dense-weave cotton ones and the Athleta packs — which they sport when working out (apparently they are quite breathable and washable). They started making masks last September, and sold them online for over a year. However, they are currently on hiatus due to being separated from their sewing machine. “What I was making were reversible masks…because they create more fashion options,” said Melsheimer. When planning their outfit (on a super fancy app called LookScope), their mask is a key component. “I usually
match by color or by accent color,” said Melsheimer. “I like having another thing to match colors to, because a lot of little accessories, you don’t get like big pops of color with. So I like having something where I can put a big pop of color that ties together my whole outfit.” For Melsheimer, their daily mask is “the finishing touch” to an outfit. “Generally, my masks say that I’m a fashionista. That I like to be coordinated,” Melsheimer said. Then suddenly, they produce an adorable frog mask from their purse, pronouncing that this one “[lets] people know that I’m not like other girls.” We both conclude that this is an incredibly important thing for the world to know. Our meeting left me wondering, what did my masks say about me? With the end of mask wearing not at all on the horizon, I have plenty of time to find out. XOXO, That One Pink Girl (AKA your new fashion columnist. Surprise!) Need more masks? You can find free disposable masks at Scripps Office of Student Engagement (OSE), the student union, and at SHS COVID-19 testing sites. If purchasing reusable masks is a financial hardship, reach out to your primary contact dean.
Graphic Courtesy of iStock
29 October 2021 • The Scripps Voice • Volume XXX • Issue One
Arts and Entertainment • 12
A Definitive Ranking of folklore’s Most Autumnal Songs Madison Yardumian ‘22 Editor-in-Chief
O
K, I’ll admit it. I like Taylor Swift. Like most, I’ve enjoyed her music since I was a little kid, invigorated by the tell-all, diary-like formulation of her songs. Her songs felt like gossip, like dunking against anyone who ever wronged you, like youthfulness and all its indiscretions. It’s a really special thing to feel like an artist has aged with you, which is the way so many of us feel about Taylor Swift. Her constant reinventions leave space for life’s natural rhythm of growth and change. The somewhat acoustic, somewhat pop sound of “Red” spoke to a middle school me in need of the catharsis only singing “All Too Well” (whilst never having experienced a real heart pop record, “1989,” was released during my freshman year of high school, the exact moment my tastes streamlined into what I heard on the radio. Contrary to Swift’s typical style, the songs on ““folklore”” are more entries. Three of the songs are even chapters in a longer saga, (“betty,” “august” and “cardigan”). Other songs follow characters through struggles ranging from addiction (“this is me trying”) to the more unusual phenomena of chronicling the life of the woman who used to own your mansion (“the last great american dynasty”). The multiplicity and collectivity of this album was certainly a welcome shift in quarantine, a time of such massive disconnection from others. Swift herself has mentioned “folklore” is meant to symbolize spring and summer, while evermore, its sister album, embodies fall and winter. But without envisioning that period of time when summer turns to fall and evermore without thinking of the winter. So now that it’s fall and ‘tis the damn season, here’s my ranking of “folklore”’s most fall playlist worthy songs. 4. the 1 with “the 1” (its name of course being a double entendre for its romantic connotations as well as its placement as the beginning of “folklore”). Often overshadowed by “cardigan,” the 1 is seemingly simple, its piano part mainly consisting of the same two or three chords. The song depicts the experience of processing a relationship’s end, through bouncy yet subdued piano and simple yet effective lyrics to match: “It would’ve been fun / If you would’ve been the one.” The lyric “the 1” is also given a third meaning in the song’s bridge, as Swift sings, “I persist and resist the temptation to ask you / If one thing had been different / Would everything be different today?” The lyric “the 1” in this instance can also mean the
one thing that stood in the way of the speaker’s relationship with their beloved from surviving. Figuring the end of the relationship in the same terms as one might think of their one true love shows how precarious love can be — this person could be the one, or there might be one thing standing in their way which thwarts the entire relationship. Moreover, in pop music, choruses typically contain four chords, working together in a chord progression to give the impression of something building. However, the start of this song contains just two alternating chords (F and C). This means you don’t get that same feeling of build. Instead, the opening chords give the impression of something opening and closing, leaving and then immediately returning, mirroring the self-contained arc of the song. The fact that “folklore” begins with an ending is interesting in its own right (again, how is it not the fall album?). This sense of closure makes it the perfect fall listen. 3. illicit affairs An often neglected song off the album, “illicit affairs” chronicles an affair between the speaker and an unknown beloved, from the perspective of the person more invested in the relationship. The briskness in the guitar’s
rather than strummed chords) whisks the listener away, the same way the speaker is whisked into an affair. The minor notes in the chord progression seem to signal the precariousness of the speaker’s relationship. There’s something very heartbreaking about the simplicity of the song’s lyrics, which remove the idea of an affair from something romanticized to the harsh realities of being someone’s secret. “That’s the thing about illicit affairs / And clandestine meetings and longing stares / It’s born from just one single glance / But it dies and it dies and it dies / A million little times.” The romance of the affair is built up through the idea of “clandestine meetings” and “longing stares” only to be undercut immediately by the death of this romance. The repetition of the words “it dies” alongside the quickening guitar part give the impression of the relationship splintering, staging the painful process of its end. A highlight of the song is the selfaware indignation of the speaker in the bridge — as they reckon with the fact that they are frustrated with their beloved, and their situation, but that they love this person. The lyric: “You taught me a secret language I can’t speak with anyone else” is particularly poignant, depicting how losing someone’s presence in your life can feel like you lose a part of yourself. What do you do with a language if there’s no one to talk to? How do you deal with losing the only person who could understand you? The fact that it is a lesser known song from “folklore” makes it a perfect
Graphic by Vivian Monteiro
one to revisit this fall, providing listeners with a fresh take on a year old album. 2. august “august” is one of the songs in the James-Betty love triangle, told from the perspective of an unnamed narrator, whom I’ll call August, for clarity’s sake. August is in love with James and has a summer fling with him, but ultimately loses him--or rather realizes he was never hers. “august” details the feeling of summer slipping away into fall, a relationship slipping away, the realization that, much like the seasons, it was never meant to be something permanent. Written with a sense of knowing the ending, it curtails any hope August could’ve had of their relationship becoming something more, even as it shows listeners the hope August used to feel that this might happen: “Wanting was enough / for me it was enough / to live for the hope of it all / cancel plans just in case you’d call” The heartache of this song then comes from not just the relationship’s impermanence and one-sidedness, but the fact that we know it’s doomed from the start and yet we still have to hear it unfold. One of Swift’s biggest strengths as a songwriter is her ability to take the feelings of young people seriously, and “august” showcases this too well to not be included on the ranking (even if it’s more of a summer transition to fall song). 1. invisible string This song melts my heart everytime
I hear it. “Isn’t it just so pretty to think? / All along there was some invisible string / Tying you to me.” Even if your heart is made of stone, it’s a sweet sentiment. The speaker is almost certainly Swift speaking about her partner Joe Alwyn, based on the details listeners receive, making it the only song off the album to be clearly biographical. There’s a plucky but gentle happiness to this song. It seems to enact what Swift details in “Daylight,” released on her album Lover just 11 months prior: “I used to think love would be burning red / But it’s golden.” Much like in “Daylight,” gold imagery recurs throughout “invisible string”speaker is with their beloved. From the “color of the leaves / When I showed you around Centennial Park” to the color of the string itself (“One single thread of gold tied me to you”), the song details a love not devoid of passion but characterized by different emotions: certainty and peace. Their love isn’t so much an entity to be passionately fought for, but a natural, inevitable process by which two already connected people are pulled together. The song verges on being cheesy, but is redeemed by its own selfawareness. The inverted, story-book like structure of the verse’s opening lines “Green was the color of the grass” and its playful references to Swift’s discography “Bad was the blood of the song in the cab” give the song a selfreflexive over-the-topness that allows its listener to divulge in its faithful, glimmering romance. The golden imagery alone has to rank it in the top of “folklore”’s most fall playlist worthy bops.
29 October 2021 • The Scripps Voice • Volume XXX • Issue One
SPOOKY
6
The Heinous Haunting of Toll By Bella Kan ’24 and Ellie Ruos ’24 Staff Writers To all those who enter Toll Hall, beware, for the ghost of Eleanor Toll has risen to protect her legacy. This might sound crazy, but trust us. Toll was the first woman appointed to the Board of Trustees at Scripps College, but she died suddenly before she was able to serve. She spent her life humbly minimizing her accomplishments, claiming motherhood was at the forefront of her life. It’s as if she wanted to live in the shadows. On Sept. 8, two desperate and overheated Scripps students decided to crash for the night in the Toll Hall Recreation Room. That’s us, Bella and Ellie: two unlucky sophomores with broken air conditioning units during a month where the high was a constant 100 degrees. The firm couch cushions and powdery smell were less than ideal, but at least the air conditioning worked. After a long day of studying, we grabbed our pillows and prepared to go to sleep. The first sign of paranormal activity came with the flickering of the chandeliers. Perched over the couches and tables, the light fixtures never went dark throughout the entire night. We flipped the switches on and off a few times as the blinking continued, but nothing changed. The portrait of Toll stared at us from the foyer, mocking our futile attempts. The spooky activity persisted and climaxed two hours into our sleep. I, Bella, will take over with the storytelling as Ellie cannot recount any experiences after falling asleep that night. After falling asleep around 2 a.m., we both woke up at exactly 4 a.m.. There was an eerie feeling in the air. I looked around to find Ellie sitting upright and staring at me. “What’s wrong?” I asked. She then motioned to the chandelier. At this point, the light flickering increased in frequency and the bulb was much brighter than before. It was alarming. Ellie then turned back to me and
Graphic By Vivian Monteiro
said, “Eleannnnnoorrrr,” with a slight vibration in her voice. I stared at her in disbelief–it seemed as if she was possessed by the spirit of Toll herself. We both then fell back asleep, unable to recount anything else. One could say we are being dramatic. Maybe Ellie was halfawake, muttering nonsense and trying to prank Bella in good fun. We considered this too. However, the two nights following the paranormal activity, we both woke up at exactly 4 a.m.. Both times we were back in our separate rooms, free of Toll’s piercing stare, but apparently not of her haunting. I, Ellie, live in Toll Hall. Since that
night, I always notice Toll’s probing portrait following me as I walk in the front door. This occurrence sparked our curiosity to look deeper into her life-story and understand her possible motives for haunting Scripps students. An L.A. Times article from 1926 recounts that her life was rich in accomplishments. She was vice president of Security Trust and Savings Bank of Los Angeles, the former president of Los Angeles District of Women’s club, and organized the Glendale Symphony Orchestra Association. She was a teacher at Los Angeles High School, a mother of four sons, and a wife to Charles II Toll.
The article also mentions h e r t e n d e n c y t o “d i s c o u r a g e her supporters” and default to motherhood as her main accomplishment. Why did she feel the need to depict her vibrant life as quiet and simple? Is she rolling in her grave, regretting her modesty? These questions haunt us. If anything, Toll could be calling out for recognition by sparking the attention of Scripps students living under her name. All in all, we respect her and hope that she haunts us with love. However, let it be known that if you live in Toll Hall or decide to stay the night, be wary of Toll and say her name in good faith. She is always watching.
Halloween Hilarities By Belen Yudess ’25 Staff Writer
Are you looking for a way to tickle your funny bone this Halloween? Check out these spooktacular jokes that are sure to scare up a laugh!
6. Why were the Keck students scared to learn about protons, neutrons and electrons?
1. What food did Frankenstein eat to comfort himself when he caught the Scripps cold?
7. Which dorm was the abominable snow monster’s favorite?
3. Why did the ghost struggle to write their Core question? 4. Why did the Grimm Reaper love brunch at Mallot? 5. Why couldn’t the skeleton go swimming at Tiernan? Graphic Courtesy of Charatoon
Hopefully these jokes weren’t too terror-ble and sent a shiver down your spine! Happy Halloween and #scrippsspookyseason! 1. Monster mash-ed potatoes with grave-y 2. Monster-ella 3. Because they could not phantom what the reading was about 4. Because the açaí bowls are to die for 5. Because the water chilled her to the bone 6. Because they were afraid to meet the Atom’s family *snap snap*
2. What kind of cheese did the witch ask the 5C student-run grilled cheese business, Munch, to use on her Sandwich?
29 October 2021 • The Scrip
SPOTLIGHT
7
G h o st
av i va m a x o n The ghost light stays on Well, Really the lamp in your room While you leave for a moment The ghost light stays on Well, Really the light in your car While you search for a mask The ghost light stays on Well, Really the candle you lit While you open the windows The ghost light stays on Well, Really the light from your phone While you pretend to sleep The ghost light stays on Well, Maybe this time, We can have an actual ghost light The ghost light stays on Well, Really it’s the sound of the air conditioner When you stand under it The ghost light stays on Well, Really it’s the sound of the cotton woods When the wind goes just so The ghost light stays on Well, Really it’s the sound of cars in a row When they’re waiting to leave
Well, Really it’s the smell of Piñon Where it burns in homes The ghost light stays on Well, Really it’s the smell of cookies Where they bake in your childhood The ghost light stays on Well, Really it’s the smell of rain Where it falls and you dance The ghost light stays on Well, Maybe this time, We can have an actual ghost light The ghost light stays on Well, Really it’s the taste of watermelon With a sweetness to make you smile The ghost light stays on Well, Really it’s the taste of salt With a bitterness to make you remember The ghost light Well, Really it’s the honey
stays on taste of
With a stickiness to make you stop The ghost light stays on Well, Maybe this time, We can have an actual ghost light The ghost light stays on Well, Really it’s the feeling of wood under your feet The ghost light stays on Well, Really it’s the feeling of spring coming home The ghost light stays on Well, Really it’s the feeling of warmth Who’s never yours The ghost light stays on Well, Maybe this time, We can have an actual ghost light The ghost light stays on Well, A light at least While you look at the stars, Where you were, Was always home, With them The ghost light stays on.
The ghost light stays on Well, Maybe this time, We can have an actual ghost light The ghost light stays on
pps Voice • Volume XXX • Issue One
Graphic By Gabi Seifert ‘23