QUAKER CAMPUS November 9, 2023
The voice of Whittier College since 1914
Volume 22— Issue 6
Athletics Cancellation: One Year Later Jonathan Bermudez ASST. NEWS EDITOR
Mental health resources will be accessible to homeless people.
Courtesy of la times
Newsom Announces New Homeless Plan Meylina Tran CAMPUS LIFE EDITOR
On Oct. 10, Governor Gavin Newsom announced new action plans in his ongoing efforts to combat and address California’s homelessness problem. These new plans add to Newsom’s pre-existing multi-billion dollar approach to tackle the needs of individuals experiencing homelessness. One such plan involves moving people in need of assistance into affordable housing funded and provided by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD).
California is home to nearly a third in grants for the Homekey proof the nation’s homeless popu- gram—a statewide effort to sustain lation, which was exacerbated by and rapidly expand housing for the COVID-19 pandemic and the persons experiencing homelesslabor market slowdown. Forbes ness, as well as for those who are predicts that the employment rate at risk of homelessness—in order could rise from 3.7 percent to 4.8 to build at least 700 housing units. percent—or nearly two million peo- These housing units will be built ple—by the end of next year. How- through nine developments in ever, as Newsom states, “The state’s Fresno, Los Angeles, Sacramento, homelessness crisis has been decades San Diego, Visalia, Modesto, and in the making. While there’s more San Buenaventura. work to be done, we are challenging Furthermore, this announcement the status quo with new, innovative builds upon a previous $736 milsolutions to get Californians off the lion investment made to address statewide homelessness “through streets and into housing.” Newsom’s newly released tactic the acquisition and construction of involves allocating $179.7 million See Homelessness page 2.
How Expensive is CA Cost of Living? However, a study conducted by the University of California, San Francisco indicates that nine out of 10 people experiencing homelessness blamed housing costs for their state of living. California holds the US largest homeless population of around 161,548, or 27.89 percent, of the total homeless population in the country. For comparison, California’s homeless population is nine times greater than that of Oregon’s, which is about 17,960. Several Californians, especially families and those living paycheck courtesy of shrm foundation to paycheck, have to work multiple Inflation in California is affecting the cost of living. jobs at a time in order to be able to Bureau of Economic Analysis, the afford food and maintain a home. Anna Gaber HEAD COPY EDITOR average annual cost of living in CalThe current minimum hourly With a population of over 39 mil- ifornia is around $47,915, which wage in California is $15.50. Even lion people — with 10.5 million is mainly made up of housing and when all necessary bills have been being immigrants, California is the utilities, health care, non-restaurant paid (e.g. rent, gas, electricity, wafood, gas and energy, and “other ter, insurance), it is unlikely that most populous state in the US. there will be any leftover money However, California’s gas, food, personal expenditures.” Specifically in regards to housing, to set aside for savings, let alone to transportation, health care, and housing prices have made it the sec- the California Association of Real- spend on clothing, going or eating ond most expensive state to live in tors reports that the median hous- out, hobbies, holidays, etc. Wages have increased over the in 2023, with Hawai’i taking first ing price in California is “forecast to decline 8.8 percent to $758,600 in years, but they have not kept up place. The disproportionate difference 2023, following a projected 5.7 per- with the productivity of workers, between California’s wages and cost cent increase to $831,460 in 2022.” nor do they meet the cost of living. The most significant consequence The Employment Development of living has caused countless residents to become homeless or expe- of the high cost of living is home- Department has resources available lessness. that pertain to housing and recievrience financial disparity. According to the World Popu- Homelessness is caused by a myr- ing food stamps for needy families lation Review, the average income iad of reasons, including addiction, and individuals at edd.ca.gov/en/ of a California resident is roughly substance abuse, and mental health about_resources. $77,393. And, as indicated by the and medical issues. The Worst of Wars: Who Do Celebrities Support? Articles: Opinions: A&E: Cozy and Cool Fall Outings
It is almost the one year anniversary since Whittier College announced the discontinuation of three sports programs. On Nov. 12, 2022, Whittier College announced that Men’s Football would be terminated— with the addition of Men’s Lacrosse, and Men and Women’s Golf, after football was a part of athletics for 135 years. The College states that the reasoning was due to statistics that showed the decline of youth playing tackle football, and also the intent being to protect students from chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). This was a heavily reported story to come out of Whittier College at the time, causing an uproar in the community, most notably from alumni who formed the group Save Whittier College in response to the sports’ cancellation. The decision was reported by NBC, Los Angeles Times, Fox 11 and the local Whittier Daily News. Students who were in the sport programs had to find other colleges to transfer to. Poet Caroline Valle was quoted in the LA Times saying that, “Not getting a proper reason from the College, I feel like I’ve been tossed aside.” A lot of the students in the program were not properly informed of the cuts. “When we dropped these sports, it was a difficult time for all of our students whether they were student athletes or non-student athletes because of the impact athletics has on an institution, especially a small institution like us,” says Rock Carter, Director of Athletics. Carter has been the Director of Athletics since 2019 and remembered the challenges he faced after the loss of the sports. “There were definitely some fires that had to be put out,” he said. He recalls that people were angry, but not just the students but more so their parents. Carter reports that he had spent a lot of time answering questions and concerns and tried to give the best answer he could, but his knowledge of the school’s intentions was limit-
ed and he admits it still is. Carter and the Athletics Department had to prepare and keep the students and parents of the athletes informed but he admitted that the institution and its integrity became a question. Carter says, “It doesn’t even stop at athletics, people were talking about the school, how long is Whittier going to be around. Is Whittier in as bad shape as they say it is?” The Athletics Department had to not lose its hold. Carter says his coaches and Department did a great job at keeping things together. “We had to build the trust again,” says Carter. He shares that the athletic department was disappointed to be put in that situation. He assumed that the Administration knew their decision was going to have backlash but considers it a disappointment for everyone. “The games were always well attended, and our patrons and fans had nothing but good things to say about the game day experience, I don’t think it was a thing anyone saw coming,” said Jack Goodwille, Assistant Athletic Director for Communications. Goodwille remembers being shocked for the Men’s Lacrosse team as they had a roster of 45 players, the college maximum. According to the College, the Athletics Department is still going strong. With 18 sports teams still at Whittier College, Carter assures that there is nothing more important than doing the best for the athletes still here. Goodwille says that, although the anniversary is approaching, the Department is only looking forward, and not to the past. “We have a great thing going here,” says Goodwille before praising volleyball athletes Analise and Brenna Kusleika for receiving athlete of the year. “There is one of two ways you can respond to getting punched in the face. You can fight back, or stay down for the ten count, [Whittier College] got up and we fought back,” says Goodwille.
jacob perez / quaker campus Multiple sports programs were cancelled last year.
Index:
News — 1, 2, 3 | Sports — 4,5 | Campus Life — 6, 7 | Opinions — 8, 9 | Features — 10 | A & E — 11, 12
NEWS
2
Nov. 9, 2023
Legislation Aims To Alleviate Homelessness
Courtesy of los angeles times
Los Angeles has the largest homeless population in California. Homelessness continued from pg. 1 the city and county of Sacramento to build a tiny home village on interim and permanent homeless Stockton Boulevard that will be a housing.” Thus, the total Homekey model for the rest of the state. Resunits expected to be built and sus- idents will be embedded in a comtained throughout the state expands munity wellness campus, specializing in substance abuse disorder from 700 to over 13 thousand. Additionally, since Newsom’s an- treatment and mental health care. This combination of housing and nouncement earlier this year to purchase over a thousand small homes assertive treatment is the recipe for for the purpose of relocating home- helping our unhoused neighbors less individuals, the administration and providing relief to our neighhas made great progress in collab- borhoods.” Several California cities, however, orating with local governments to distribute these small homes have opposed the bill, arguing that throughout the state. However, the it would take away local control Newsom administration has yet to over housing developments. Definalize a contract for the state and spite these concerns, the adminislocal governments to purchase these tration is determined to move ahead and solve the state’s homelessness small homes. The law also allows nonprofit crisis. Senator Scott Wiener, who colleges and religious institutions collaborated with Newsom on anto turn their little used parking lots other housing bill, says, “California and other properties into low-in- desperately needs to ramp up houscome housing. A recent study done ing production, and the Governor’s by the University of California, actions today help put us on a path Berkeley estimated California reli- to achieve that goal.” Beyond establishing affordable gious institutions and higher education campuses have more than a housing throughout the state, the combined 170,000 acres of unused land. The administration is looking to bypass most local permitting and environmental review rules to rezone those locations for residential use. According to Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg, “Gov. Newsom’s office has been working closely with
new law also overhauls the state’s mental health system as another tactic in combat the homelessness crisis. The new law expands the definition of “gravely disabled” to include individuals who are unable to attain for themselves basic needs, such as food and shelter due to an untreated mental illness, unhealthy drug use, or alcoholism. This means that authorities will more easily be able to provide the proper care to those with untreated mental illness, many of whom are homeless and vulnerable. In order to facilitate this new proposal, Newsom plans to borrow $6.3 billion for 10,000 new mental health treatment beds, which is expected to ease counties of the burden of paying for mental and behavioral health programs. “California is undertaking a major overhaul of our mental health system,” Newsom says. “We are working to ensure no one falls through the cracks, and that people get the help they need and the respect they deserve.”
However, there are those that worry about the increase in homeless Californians with untreated mental illness being detained against their will and forced into treatment. These opponents stress that—although the new law was drafted with good intentions—it will result in more people being locked up and deprived of their fundamental rights. Democratic Senator Susan Eggman—who authored the legislation—is aware of these concerns, and reasons that the detainment of a person with mental illness against their will should only be used as a last resort, not as the main strategy. “Our state prisons are full of people who, after they’ve been restore to competency, are in our state prisons because of serious mental
health issues and drug addiction issues,” Eggman says, “I think that is the most inhumane way to treat the most vulnerable of us.” The overhauling of the state’s mental health system is expected to go into effect in 2024. As for the establishment of small home communities, Newsom expects the first groundbreaking ceremony to take place before the end of this year. For additional homeless resources, the Mental Health America of Los Angeles is providing housing support for individuals affected by homelessness with several chapters located throughout LA County and can be contacted at mhala.org. Calbudget.org also has resources.
“We are working to ensure no one falls through the cracks, and that people get the help and the respect to deserve.” -Gov. Gavin Newsom New housing projects are in development.
Courtesy of los angeles times
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
QUAKER CAMPUS STAFF EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Emily henderson
CAMPUS LIFE Meylina Tran
STAFF WRITERS Estasia McGlothlin Sean Frank Piper Guinn
DEPUTY EDITOR Alissa portillo
FEATURES EDITOR Emily henderson
MANAGING EDITOR Sage Amdahl
A&E EDITOR Shelby Silva
deanna outten
NEWS EDITOR Sarah Licon
PHOTOS EDITOR Julia Centeno
emma galvan
ASST. NEWS EDITOR jonathan bermudez
HEAD COPY EDITOR Anna gaber
OPINIONS EDITOR Alissa Portillo
SOCIAL MEDIA Alissa Portillo
SPORTS EDITOR Lucy Campbell
FACULTY ADVISOR Joe Donnelly
alejandra ortega allara baker
COPY EDITORS chelsea bartilad paige meyer-draffen
PHOTOGRAPHERS nune papiyakin
Submissions may be emailed to qc@poets.whitttier.edu in .doc or .docx format. Submissions must include the author’s name and year of graduation or position at the college in the signature. Letters are due by Tuesday at 5 p.m. to make it into that week’s issue. Submissions should be no more than 500 words. Letters should be well-proofread, as they will not be edited. Letters that fall outside of these guidelines will be returned to the author with a request for revision. Due to the high cost of publication, members of the Whittier College community are permitted three copies per issue. Additional copies may be purchased with prior apporval for 50 cents each by contacting the Quaker Campus. Newspaper theft is a crime, and those who violate the three copy rule may be subject to civil and criminal prosecution.
jacob perez
The Quaker Campus does not change material posted on online articles once they have been published in the paper — with the exception of an error being found. Only then will a correction be made to the online version. The Quaker Campus is a publication of Whittier College. Columns and Signed editorials do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Whittier College or its affiliates.
NEWS
Nov. 9, 2023
3
Watch Out! Car Accidents on the Rise
Automobile accidents have increased since the pandemic.
Alissa Portillo DEPUTY EDITOR
Car accidents and car accident related deaths, are more prevalent in California and Los Angeles specifically than they were a few years ago. TRIP, a non-profit organization that researches transportation, published a report that highlighted the increase in traffic fatalities in California between 2019 and 2022. It was found that there was a 22 percent increase in traffic fatalities between 2019 and 2022. Alongside that, the likelihood of being killed in a traffic crash increased by 28 percent during the same time period. Additionally, Los Angeles County was found to have “the highest county-wide vehicle accident rate in the state,” according to LA serious injury attorney Kenneth Sigleman.
Courtesy of Amendt Law
According to data from the Los may be an effect of changes in the Angeles Police Department, 312 traditional hours of rush hour in people were killed by traffic colli- LA as now drivers may disperse at sions in 2022. This was a five per- different times throughout the day, cent increase from previous years of especially with some people still 2020 and 2021, and it is labeled working remotely or hybrid as a reas the deadliest record the city has sult of the pandemic. seen yet. Compare this to the year So if traffic has returned to its lev2015, when 186 people were killed el of pre-pandemic, yet rush hour by traffic fatalities. With more than has changed and improved ever so 52,000 car accidents in LA within slightly, then why are traffic fatali2022, it leaves “roughly 1,000 per ties rising? week and more than 140 per day.” The rise in traffic fatalities comes During the mandatory lockdown, from rooted issues of dangerous mandated by Governor Newsom, vehicle traffic had decreased dramatically as people were mandated to remain at home. But now, traffic returned almost to its pre-pandemic level in 2022. According to a study conducted by the University of North Carolina, rush-hour traffic in LA is not as bad as it had been pre-pandemic. This
driving behaviors. Rocky Moretti, and victim of the Route 91 Harvest the TRIP Director of Policy and County Music Festival in Las VeResearch stated, “We’ve seen a sig- gas–who also provided aid during nificant increase in the number the massacre shooting in 2017–was of people unbelted being killed in struck and killed on his motorcycle traffic crashes; we saw a 23 percent while on his way to work on Oct. increase in speeding-related crashes 5. He was struck after a vehicle had and a 22 percent increase in alco- made an unsafe change lane. hol-related crashes.” This does not On Oct. 17, four young women include the 159 people who were from Pepperdine University were killed in collisions involving pedes- killed in a violent crash on PCH in trians and motorists, and 20 people Malibu. The driver who struck and who were killed in collisions in- killed the four sorority sisters lost volving bicyclists and motorists. LA control of his vehicle and struck saw another increase of 19 and 11 three parked cars before hitting the percent in these deaths compared to four women on the side of the road. 2019 as well. Authorities said that at least four veThe prevalence of these collisions hicles were involved and speed may is still found in 2023 thus far. For be the likely factor in this crash. instance, just recently on Oct. 31, During a press conference, LASD a man was struck and killed while Capt. Jennnifer Seetoo also exriding a Lime Scooter in East Hol- pressed that speed is a top concern lywood early Tuesday morning. The alongside PCH. man was struck by a black sedan Damian Kevitt, the executive diand ejected off the scooter where rector of the nonprofit organization he was hit again by a silver Lexus. Streets Are For Everyone––which On Saturday, Oct. 28 a delivery aims to improve the quality of life driver’s leg was severed after he was for pedestrians, bicyclists, and drivstruck by a suspected DUI driver in ers alike by reducing traffic fatalities Boyle Heights. to zero–had stated, “It’s frustrating Chad Swanson, a Manhattan and infuriating…all of these fatalBeach Police Department officer ities are preventable.” Vision Zero, the city’s program also seeks to eliminate and end traffic fatalities by the year 2025. Both of these programs hope to educate the public about the outcomes, consequences, and promotion of safe driving. This article has been condensed for print. If you would like to read the full article, it is available at medium.com/thequakercampus.
Los Angeles County was found to have “the highest countywide vehicle accident rate in the state.” -Attorney Kenneth Siegleman
Courtesy of KPOET
4
SPORTS
Nov. 9, 2023
Whittier Creates Big Waves at a 5K Open-Water Event Olivia Nunez STAFF WRITER
Swimming is arguably one of the most challenging sports an athlete can compete in. Every muscle in the body is utilized to push the swimmer through water, a dense substance that characteristically inhibits fast movement. Most swim competitions take place in a controlled environment, such as an Olympic-sized pool for various distances that require strength and endurance. To participate in these events, swimmers must train extensively on dry land and in the water, perfecting specific techniques, such as the backstroke, the butterfly, and the breaststroke. This can narrow the training for an athlete and allow them to focus on particular movements and lengths. However, certain swimmers may choose to compete in what is comparable to cross-country running, which is the open-water swim. An open-water swim is exactly what it sounds like: a competition in an open area that is, for lack of a better term, not a swimming pool. Terrains most commonly used in open-water swimming are oceans and extensive lakes with no clear block, lane, or push-off point. Due to external influences, such as wind or the frequency of waves, open-water swimming can practically double an athlete’s usual event times. There are no restrictions on
the technique used; simply boasted that Whittier Col- fourth place among all of with the specificity of toning swim the designated miles as lege was the only Division the participants. His re- their muscles and staying fast as possible. It may also be III school represented among cent events show a bright lean so that they are strong, difficult to gauge speed in an Division II and even Divi- future among a team com- but not too bulky so it does Men’s Basketball vs open-water swim without an- sion I schools. Not only did posed of half its members as not drag them down in the University of other swimmer pushing you they obliterate the allotted returners and half of them, water. Apart from their usual California, Santa to go faster in the next lane, hour and 15 cut-off time as Coach Jafari puts it, “fresh drills, the six athletes had to Cruz Nov. 10 – 7 PM creating a need for intrinsic (which is almost 30 minutes blood.” Jafari, is enthusias- swim further and practice in @ Graham Athletic motivation from the athlete. faster than the national aver- tic about the rest of their open-water to help prepare Center Whittier, CA The 5k is a feat most never age), but some managed to regular season. Although them for the competition. dream of undertaking, espe- push past athletes in higher they are technically a winAccording to Jafari, the cially in an unpredictable en- divisions. Anna Dyckerhoff ter sport, Swim and Dive benefit of participating in vironment with, for example, (third-year), Isabella Cabral has the distinction of lasting such an event is that, “If Women’s Swimming and Diving vs choppy waves. The distance (first-year), and Riana Barrett practically the entire school you can swim that, you can California Lutheran is analogous to 200 lengths (second-year) represented the year. For these swimmers, swim anything!” he stated University in an average pool, which is a women’s team, while Garrett there is no “off-season”, and wholeheartedly. Of course, task as physically arduous as it Dykier (second-year), Nico- training for an event such as these athletes will contin- Nov. 11 – 10:30 AM @ Slade Aquatic is mentally. It is the ultimate las Friedley (third-year), and the open-water swim may ue to train for their regular Center Whittier, CA test of preparation and overall Thomas Langlois (first-year) seem to add unnecessary events, but the benefits of fortitude that only a few ath- competed for the men’s team. stress. participating in this event letes can boast of completing, All of these athletes compete Swim and Dive are usually will propel the Poets past let alone excelling. Excel is ex- in a variety of distance events done with their weight room their opponents in the comactly what the Poets did! but have to train extensively to workouts with strength and ing contests. Recently, six members participate in the 5k swim. conditioning Coach Brad “It’s a mental grind Men’s Swimming of our own Poet Swim and Langlois, who is a first- Keane before the sun even more than anything,” aland Diving vs Dive team participated in an year from Canada, finished rises, only to jump into the ludes Coach Jafari as he California Lutheran open-water 5k event. Head mere seconds away from pool and get practice done as discusses the team’s prepaUniversity Coach Michael Jafari proudly the podium, leaving him in well. They must weight train ration for this sort of event. Nov. 11 – 10:30 AM They must power past the @ Slade Aquatic uncontrollable, and isolat- Center Whittier, CA ing feeling that occurs in open-water, and the physical exhaustion that may arise during the swim. The confidence in competing with Women’s Basketball such great athletes and pushat Willamette ing past them will indeed University carry on to SCIAC standNov. 12 – 1 PM ings, in which Jafari is confi@ Cone Field House dent his team will double in Salem, OR points. The season has just begun, and it is projected to take an exciting climb. As Courtesy of @wcpoets.com Jafari puts it, “It’s a great day for Poet swimming!” Open-water swimming takes place in open oceans, lakes, or rivers.
Take Me Out to Villalobos: Dodgers Stars Come to Whittier Emily Henderson
Men’s Basketball at Life Pacific Nov. 14 – 7:30 PM @ San Dimas, CA
panel, highlighting “many Dodger greats from the 1970s and 1980s.” On Nov. 14, at 7 p.m. in VilThe Institute of Baseball lalobos Hall, the Institute of Studies is a “program and Women’s BasketBaseball Studies will host a resource center that fosters Dodger-themed panel called interdisciplinary studies re- ball vs University of Southern Maine “All-Star Evening at the Inlated to the cultural signifNov. 17 – 4:30 PM stitute of Baseball Studies.” icance of baseball in AmerThis panel will host “former ican culture.” The Institute @ Bowdoin College Dodger Executive Vice Preshouses a “significant liBrunswick, ME ident and General Manager brary” of over 3000 articles, Fred Claire, former Dodger books, journals, and “oddiplayers Mike Scioscia and ties” on all things baseball. Mickey Hatcher, and for Director Joseph Price mer team photographer Rich states that the Institute is Kee,” in which the group will “delighted to offer this proMen’s Swimming cover a “wide range of topgram to enable attendees to and Diving at ics.” learn more about baseball’s Collegiate Winter Joseph Price, Director of current events and its histoInvite the Institute, stated in a press ry, particularly as it relates Nov. 17-19 Courtesy of The Baseball to Southern California.” release that, “All four of our The event will take place on Nov. 14, at 7 p.m. in Villalobos. @ ELAC Los Angeles, Institute guests have played significant If you want to learn CA roles in the history of Major Institute, including “recent- place where he “started [his] er until 2012. Scioscia de- more about the event, you League Baseball, and we are ly donating 400 books on career in journalism, that ul- buted with the Dodgers in can email Director Joseph thrilled to have them join baseball, more than a dozen timately led to [him] joining 1980 and was with them for Price at jprice@whittier.edu, us for this stimulating pro- framed photographs and re- the Dodgers,” in 1969. the World Championships Associate Director Charles Women’s Swimming gram.” productions, and 200 of his Mickey Hatcher and Mike in 1981 and 1988– be- Adams at cadams@whittiand Diving at Fred Claire was with the personal notebooks from his Scioscia were “key members fore leaving for the Angels. er.edu, and Associate Mike Collegiate Winter Dodgers for 30 years, serving days as a vice-president and of [the Dodgers] and later Rich Kee was a “longtime McBride at mmcbride@ Invite as the “Executive Vice-Pres- general manager of the Dodg- played leading roles when team photographer of the whittier.edu. Nov. 17-19 ident and General Manag- ers,” affectionately known as the California Angels won Dodgers, and his book The This article has been con- @ ELAC Los Angeles, er when the team won the the Fred Claire Collection. the World Series in 2002.” Dodger Collection was re- densded for print. If you CA World Series in 1998.” Claire Claire states that he is pleased Hatcher was then the hitting cently released [on Sept. would like to read the full has made many contribu- with donating to the Institute coach for the Angels in 2000, 27].” The book features the article, visit medium.com/ tions over the years to the due to Whittier being the and Scioscia was the manag- other individuals on the the-quaker-campus. EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Nov. 9, 2023
SPORTS
5
Eat, Sleep, Pickleball: The New Big Dill Around Town
simplicity and fun. While means an abundance of pickle- tis prohibit some older adults the prevalent injuries and response aspect of rallies the sport has grown over the ball courts. Pickleball is so es- from participating in specific extensive pressure that gives that sweet smack of STAFF WRITER years, it has now reached na- teemed and relevant in our cur- aerobic exercises, pickleball comes with being a tradi- contact and a perfect fix of gratification. Pickleball is a “Pickleball is Here!” announc- tionwide significance, with rent time that people utilize the allows them to assemble in tional student-athlete. The beauty of the newly simple and fun game that es a bright purple, all-caps millions of current players. Pickleball+ app to find partners a low-risk but still beneficial banner calling all “picklers” In 2023, the Sports and to play with, nearby courts, and activity that brings people to- popular pastime, in Ca- has become what seems to partake in the hottest cur- Fitness Industry Association’s new ways to elevate their game. gether. Organized sport is the pus’ opinion, comes from to be an almost addictive rent sport. If you go to any (SFIA) Topline ParticipaThe game’s objective is akin ultimate test of camaraderie, the self-enjoyment par- sport for all generations. public park, you can hear the tion Report declared pick- to tennis without the daunting and pickleball is an easy and ticipants get from playing Its growing popularity is a pop of a paddle hitting the leball’s rise of 158.6 percent task of moving up and down a adequate way to achieve that. the esteemed game. He product of the many attriperforated plastic ball and since 2020, highlighting its wide court. It is easier to make Xan Capus is a Whittier imparts fitting insight with butions that make picklethe shouts of excitement that incredible relevance and na- contact with the less bouncy student who has embraced his view of the sport, “As I ball, well, pickleball, and it arise when a rally is complete. tionwide impact. Its growth wiffle ball, and the speed at the Pickleball craze. Capus get older, and life gets more is evident that the sport is Old and young, beginner and can be attributed to the which pickleballs travel reduc- only began playing a month stressful, I think finding here to stay! proficient, all have a shared af- post-pandemic person’s crav- es difficulty. Pickleball is easy ago but was, as he put it, “in- ways to connect with those finity for the beloved pastime ing for normalcy, along with to pick up for those who have stantly obsessed.” The reason simple childish pleasures This article has been conknown as “pickleball.” It is the the simplicity of the game. never played the game before or he is so drawn to the sport is becomes more and more densed for print. If you would like to read the full United States’ fastest-grow- USA pickleball has its own those who lack extreme athlet- because it has allowed him important.” As people value instant article, visit medium.com/ ing sport, a craze that has in- website, which describes the icism, as it is a way to develop to participate in a competicreased in participation over sport in big, bold letters as and practice hand-eye coordi- tive environment without satisfaction, the ask-and- the-quaker-campus. the last three years and con- “...fun, social, and friendly! nation. Overall, pickleball can tinues its climb in popularity. The rules are simple, and the be played by all ages and skill But it’s always been here, so game is easy for beginners to levels, which accounts for its why is it so popular now? learn but can develop into current recognition and promThe sport was founded in a fast-paced, competitive inence. 1965 by three vacationing fa- game.” In its definition, we The explosion of the sport thers - Joel Pritchard, Bill find pickleball’s appeal to so on a national scale can also be Bell, and Barney McCallum many who have chosen to attributed to the social nature - searching for a way to en- spend their mornings and af- of the game. Post-pandemic, tertain their bored children. It ternoons on the court. the game is a way to meet new was a combination of elements The sport itself is easy to ac- people and “get out there,” as from other sports, which end- cess due to the abundance of some would say. While diseases Olivia Nunez / Quaker Campus ed up being a culmination of tennis courts, which, in turn, such as heart disease and arthri- Pickleball has been around for over 50 years.
Olivia Nunez
Poet Volleyball Has a Secret Weapon: The Kusleika Sisters
Tony Leon / actionwestphotography.com Both Kusleika sisters play the Opposite Hitter and Middle Blocker positions.
Luca Mancasola STAFF WRITER
The Whittier Women’s Volleyball team is on a roll, showing no signs of slowing down. The team currently holds a 15-11 record overall, with 11 of those wins coming from conference games (11-5 conference record). On top of that, they were on a six-game winning streak prior to the last game of the regular season. The sister duo of Analise Kusleika (third-year) and Brenna Kusleika (first-year) are part of why this team is so hard to beat. The sisters have been critical players for the Poets this season and can be seen as one of the main contributors to the team’s success thus far, making strides on and off the court. They have certainly set the tone for the season, proving to be a problem for any opponent they face, standing at 6’2” and 6’3”. Their friendly and welcoming demeanor contrasts with the killer mentality they reveal on the court. According to Analise, the two found their love for volleyball in very different ways, and the work and preparation to get to where
The legacy of athletics runs in they are now started years ago. Analise continues, “I didn’t make the family, with their parents both my seventh-grade team, and hon- having played sports at the Univerestly, I started to get better out of sity of La Verne. Their support and spite. So, I practiced with the club encouragement led the two to set so that I could make my eighth- their sights on college volleyball. grade team, which I did.” With a For Analise, the choice to attend chip on her shoulder, Analise was Whittier was an easy one. “Getting able to unlock a competitive drive, an opportunity to play together, taking this winning mentality to truly together, for a whole two years was really appealing to both the next level. Brenna, on the other hand, was of us,” she explains. While Brenna’s recruiting proa gifted soccer player, and volleyball had only sometimes been in cess was a bit more prolonged, she her plans for the future. “She was a eventually decided on Whittier for soccer player for a really long time multiple reasons. “It ultimately led and a really good one, too,” Anal- me to the SCIAC, which is super ise explains. After Brenna made competitive. It is almost one of the both the seventh and eighth-grade most competitive conferences in teams, she decided to sacrifice her this entire country for volleyball. original passion for soccer to pri- That means I got the high level of play and amazing team aspect oritize her interest in volleyball. Overall, Analise has found en- while also being able to have hobjoyment in watching her younger bies on the side and not making sister follow in her footsteps and it a job, which was very appealing find success on the court, men- to me. And it just happens that tioning that it has ultimately it’s close to home where my sister brought them closer together and was,” says Brenna. Since becoming a Poet, Analhas been a driving force for resolving moments of conflict between ise has carried many lessons from the two, considering they play the playing volleyball into other parts of her life. Trusting herself, same position.
self-confidence, leadership, and self-awareness are just a few noted by Analise, as she proudly states while smiling, “It’s funny how you work on it in one aspect of your life, and it serves you in all of them.” These lessons have helped in her decision to pursue a major in child development after initially having doubts that she was following her own path, not just the path her parents desired for her. Finally, she came to the realization that she should pursue something she’s a natural at and enjoys; “it doesn’t matter if somebody else did it before me.” Brenna, however, is still navigating her first year as a Poet, finding growth and independence through the new responsibilities that come with the college experience. In comparison to her new life as a first-year living on her own and balancing what’s expected on the court at a collegiate level, she expands that, “You’re kind of on your own. The same goes for volleyball; I’ve never competed at a level where you don’t get a ton of sympathy. You can figure out anything if you try instead of shying away when it gets too tough.” Annalise is ready to help Brenna gain this independence after already experiencing two years in the dorms and recently moving off campus. Her approach has been to support Brenna and ask if she needs anything, rather than stepping in and doing it for her. So far, Analise’s support has been proven effective, with Brenna explaining with confidence and conviction, “I did lean on Analise when necessary, but I still felt like I was my own separate entity. I kind of made my own path and my own direction without always being the little sister.” In terms of goals and aspira-
tions, the consensus between the two sisters was to beat Claremont-Mudd-Scripps (CMS), a team that had been undefeated for years until they recently lost to La Verne. After Whittier won against Occidental by a score of 3-0 on Oct. 27, the Poets then went on to accomplish the great feat of taking down CMS. The momentum continued as they defeated the University of Redlands on Halloween and later got the best of Pomona-Pitzer. These games were similar, as all came in 3-0 victories, leaving their opponents scoreless. Despite the loss that had closed out the 2023 season to La Verne on Nov. 4, the team’s outstanding run got the recognition they hoped for and deserved. They were named in the NCAA Division III regional rankings, coming in at the seventh spot in Region X, five years after their last mention in 2018. The team also qualified for post-season play, with plans to eliminate CMS in the semifinals approaching. As far as personal goals go for Analise, winning games and feeling good about how the team gets the job done remains her top priorities. Brenna builds on Analise’s statements, sharing her goals to “Play well and hopefully get recognition for it. If I play well enough to get recognition, it means that I’m doing something right, and I thrive off of that sometimes.” She is seemingly excited by the possibilities and what the future holds for her. Having the dynamic sister duo on the team brings a new and impactful feature to Poet Women’s Volleyball and has created a unique opportunity for the two to become closer in both their relationship and shared passion for the sport.
6
CAMPUS LIFE
Whittier Dines With The Dead Alejandra Ortega STAFF WRITER
Calendar is subject to change. To learn more, visit whittier.campuslabs.com/engage. Thalian Society Rush • Thursday, Nov. 9 at 5:30 p.m. • Club 88 Franklin Society Rush • Thursday, Nov. 9 at 7 p.m. • Brickhouse Pizza ASWC Senate Advocacy & Student Feedback Committee Meeting • Friday, Nov. 10 at noon • ASWC Senate Office (Campus Center 126) “Space Jam” Night • Friday, Nov. 10 at 4 p.m. • Harris Amphitheater Geezer Night with KPOET • Friday, Nov. 10 at 4:30 p.m. • Club 88 Palmer Society Rush • Saturday, Nov. 11 at 9 a.m. • OSE Conference Room ISC & PSALA Mixer • Sunday, Nov. 12 at 4 p.m. • Harris Amphitheater Donuts & Coffee Study Abroad Discussion • Monday, Nov. 13 at 9:30 a.m. • Platner Hall 203
Nov. 9, 2023
On Nov. 2, the Office of Equity and Inclusion (OEI), El Movimiento Estudiantil Chicanx De Atzlan (M.E.Ch.A), and ASWC hosted a luncheon in honor of Día de Los Muertos. The event was bright and festive, and featured many different aspects of traditional Día de Los Muertos celebrations. When walking up to the North Lawn, students could clearly hear the sound of the Mariachi playing. Many of the staff and faculty showed up wearing bright embroidered shirts. The luncheon had food provided by Bon Appetit. The lunch entree consisted of Mexican rice, beans, barbacoa, and enchiladas. The drinks provided were aguas frescas, such as horchata. Finally, for dessert there were churros and polvorones. The tables had a centerpiece made of sunflowers and cempasúchiles, or marigolds, in mason jars. Next to the centerpieces were framed informational sheets of paper explaining what Día de Los Muertos is, and the significance of the different elements of the celebration, like the ofrendas and cempasúchiles. This is all a part of M.E.Ch.A co-chairs Sesha Hernandez-Real and Galilea Landa-Posas’ efforts to educate the
Whittier College community while also creating safe spaces for the Latinx community. Hernandez-Real commented on the importance of Día de Los Muertos: “I think it’s a really beautiful time [...] coming together with your family and with your friends to honor those who have passed away, and remember [the] legacies, not only of your family, but the the legacies of people who you looked up to.” She also commented on the importance of having the annual Día de Los Muertos event on campus. “I think it’s important to celebrate events like these on campus because we do have a huge population of Latinx identifying students, and this would be a great way to honor their culture here on campus and show them that they’re here, they’re visible, and they’re represented here.” Hernandez-Real’s words were definitely reflected in the event. No one passing by the North Lawn could ignore the music and the bright colors of the ofrendas. A lot of students attended the event and took the time to look around the ofrendas. Life and death is something we all experience, and, as Hernandez-Real said, “This isn’t something that is just [isolated] to Latin America. So many other cultures have similar
celebrations such as these, and I think it can really open the doors for other cultures to be able to intersect within the Latinx community and share about their own. Also just to open up to people who may not know about the Day of the Dead and it’s importance” The ofrendas were put together by different organizations on campus. Landa-Posas reflected on the importance of the ofrendas by saying, “[The clubs] chose [...] a theme or [...] their own family member.”
Both Hernandez-Real and Landa-Posas are thankful that the Whittier community turned out for the event, and they are hopeful that the event was able to bring the community together after many students have expressed a feeling of disconnect after last school year’s tumultuous Spring semester. Landa-Posas added that the community gathering and the community contributions to the ofrendas made it feel “like we’re getting to know each other in our community.”
Jacob Perez / Quaker Campus Día de los Muertos brings the dead to life.
ASWC Senate Opens the Floor Emma Galvan
Dental Day COPY EDITOR • Monday, Nov. 13 at 12:30 p.m. In the Campus Center, room 216 • Villalobos Hall is where you can find the Associated Students of Whittier College, or International Education Week: ASWC Senate. In the lounge-type Kickoff Dinner room sits second-year President • Monday, Nov. 13 at 5 p.m. Duncan Smith, his laptop ready • Hartley House on his desk. In a private interview, he stated, “Everyone who we have Flag Craft & Exhibition on the Senate is seeing that we are • Tuesday, Nov. 14 at 11:30 a.m. at a point in school history where • Campus Courtyard we can [introduce] a lot of really positive change, as everyone here Cold Turkey Tabling has come from various corners of • Tuesday, Nov. 14 at 12:30 p.m. the college campus.” That being • In front of the SLC said, the ASWC Senate organized a meeting on Friday, Oct. 27 at STEM Fellowship Info Session noon. The meeting was meant to • Tuesday, Nov. 14 at 4:30 p.m. hear out any and all students; their • SLC 204 concerns and suggestions about how to improve life on campus. Thriving Authentically: Indige- The meeting consisted of the curnou and Native Community, Ca- rent ASWC council and third, secreer, and Culture • Tuesday, Nov. 14 at 4:30 p.m. • Dezember House
ond, and first-year representatives. More members of the Senate were scheduled to partake, but could not for unknown reasons. The meeting began with updates from previous meetings. There was a brief mention of the Campus Inn workers and how there is something in motion soon, possibly their negotiations. There were introductions from the officer representatives, and Smith asked if there was anything to mention within the previous two weeks to be announced. However, there appeared to be none, and the meeting officially commenced. One complaint was concerning Harris Hall. According to a Senate member, “Harris Hall does not have water fountains installed like they have in Ball, Turner, and Stauffer Hall.” The Senate member explained that students have to constantly bring in bottled water, and rely heavily on water purifiers.
Movie Night: “Around the World in 80 Days” • Tuesday, Nov. 14 at 7 p.m. • Campus Courtyard All-Star Evening at the Institute for Baseball Studies • Tuesday, Nov. 14 at 7 p.m. • Villalobos Hall Poetry/Prose Open Mic with Sigma Tau Delta • Wednesday, Nov. 15 at 5 p.m. • Club 88 ASWC Senate wants to hear from you!
The student went on to say that it is unfair to Harris residents to have to travel all the way to Turner Hall to get clean water. Immediately, there were possible solutions being suggested to solve the issue, but Smith said he would take it up with Interim President Kristine Dillon. The next issue was related to M.E.Ch.A and the Diversity Council. The student stated how there seems to be a disconnect between the executive boards of M.E.Ch.A and Diversity Council, and regular club members. The disconnect stems from how club activity revolves around event planning, and not inner-club community building. The Diversity Council stated that the different diversity organizations felt that way, expressing that the locations of these events contribute to said disconnect, and the Senate could also be impacted and could help organize it. Smith responded, “One of our goals is to have more people at events,” noting most attendees were heads of clubs. “If we’re shifting our focus towards membership instead of attendance at events, then the attendance will come as a product of that. I will talk to the ICC rep about that.” The Senate wants to shift towards membership, as Smith admits he left the Student Association E-Board because he was barely hearing from them anymore. The topic is to be discussed more with the Inter-Club Council. Soon after, since there were no more issues raised, the meeting was adjourned, lasting 10 minCourtesy of ASWC utes. Even if the meeting had few
issues presented, President Duncan Smith wants to do more. He mentions that having a school so small has the benefit that any student can have a serious impact on how the school is run, saying, “We are going to be changing a lot of things, the general student experience […] the main thing we are trying to do with that is increase our visibility on campus so people know they can come to us, and eventually do come and we can resolve small issues before they become real problems.” What is the next course of action for the ASWC Senate? According to Smith, “We are going to set a standard for what our brand is going to look like; we have established a new precedent of professionalism. The main goal we are focusing on right now is making every student know they have representatives in the Senate [...] We’re here to do our job, and we intend to do it. It is a long-term process, for sure. I am trying to talk to as many people as possible.” Smith also adds that ASWC has a dedicated bulletin board outside the Campus Center, across from the Mail Room, where they will post news, events, and more. As ASWC Senate is a major part of campus life, hopefully the inclusion of these meetings can help students share their voices. To connect with the Senate, you can see when their upcoming weekly meetings are on their Engage page to voice any concerns or follow any of their social media accounts at @ aswc_senate.
Nov. 9, 2023
CAMPUS LIFE
7
Society Spotlight: Thalians Are Looking to Bounce Back Emily Henderson EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Rushing season with the societies is upon us, Poets. With events galore from the numerous societies on campus, it may be difficult to know which one will fit you. But if your core values involve ideas like “compassion, ambition, motivation,” and being a “kind, compassionate leader,”— then the Thalian society might be just right for you. The Thalian Society is “a young group of women pursuing academic endeavors in the spirit of advocacy, friendship, festivity, and inclusion.” The society is “composed of a large and diverse group of women who share a sisterhood and an everlasting bond of friendship. Each individual woman has something unique to bring to the society.” They share a
motto that encapsulates their es- were leaders “in creative writing and sence as well. It goes: “Chance made [the] literary effort at Whittier Colus sisters. Hearts made us friends.” lege,” creating a literary magazine The Thalians were founded in with contributions from the Col1929 by President Jessie Bromilow, lege community, “as well as selecVice President Virginia Merithew, tions from noted writers”—akin to Secretary Maria Louisa Ray, and today’s The Greenleaf Review. Other Treasurer Orva Sierson, under the social events included a formal dinguidance of the Dean of Wom- ner at Emile’s Chateau Cafe and a en and Professor of English Mary trip to the Hollywood Playhouse, Mendenhall—yes, the woman where actor Guy Bates Post from the building was named after. The The Climax was seen. There was group inducted 13 members in also an informal party “given by their first year. When the society was Miss Lohmann at her home in San founded, it was called the “Thalian Marino for the Thalians and their Literary Society”, with the message escorts.” While the Thalians have changed of “promot[ing] social, physical, mental, and spiritual development throughout the decades, the essence through wholesome expression in of the organization has stayed the same. The Thalians partake in many appropriate lines.” Although 1929 was the founding community service projects, includyear, 1930 was when the Thalians ing work with the “Campus Inn, really took off. The society members Susan G. Koleman Cancer Walk,
The Thalians are a sisterhood of diverse women.
and the group ‘Exposure’.” Over the summer of 2020, the society “coordinated a fundraiser with other Whittier College societies, selling Black Lives Matter stickers and pins.” The proceeds were then donated to the Homeless Black Trans Women Fund. The summer of 2020 also saw the creation of the “advocacy” chair, which serves as a “checks and balances” system for the society. The chair “works closely with the current leadership to uphold and meet the requirements of ‘actives’ and alumnae alike, allowing the society to evolve as the world evolves.” Some duties include looking at governing documents, “in order to update them to the current times or advocating for social, environmental and humanitarian causes” that represent both the society and the Whittier College community at large. The Thalians, like many societies on campus, are struggling to retain new members. The organization is currently run by past alumnae, namely Isa Madera ‘23. But don’t let that fool you! The organization has had many events this semester and are planning to host many more. One of the biggest events the Thalians participated in this semester was the 2023 Homecoming, during which there was a brunch with fellow Thalians— including the Interim President of the College. That’s right, Whittier’s own President Kristine Dillon is a Thalian herself. The Thalians also have the Thalian Society Alumni Association (TSAA), which was created with the intent of “bring[ing] together Thalian Alumna, by continuing Courtesy of The Thalians to promote sisterhood after grad-
uation while also supporting the active members of the society and Whittier College.” The TSAA supports active or graduated members by giving awards and scholarships, which are awarded at the Homecoming Brunch. One such award is the Virginia Merithew Jones Award for Leadership, which is “presented to an active or an alumna, whose leadership has made an impact on the community.” This leadership can be through the “creat[ion] or developing [of ] a program, project and/or activity that impacts the community.” The TSAA also presents the Dr. Hilmi Ibrahim Service Award to an active or alumna “who has demonstrated selfless sacrifice and determination when serving the needs of others and giving back to the community.” The Thalians also give out scholarships to students who exemplify the standards that the society sets. The first is the Carlene Robertson Huey Book scholarship, which “focuses on what the society means to you.” This is given in the fall. In the spring, the Chris Gillete Thalian Alumna Scholarship is given, which “focuses on how the society has prepared you for alumna life.” The Thalians have been a force on campus for 94 years now. If you would like to be a part of the Thalians, their “Rush” event is happening on Nov. 9 at 5:30 p.m. in Club 88. You can RSVP for the event on Engage. Their “Unrush” event is happening at Round One on Nov. 11 at 6:30 p.m., where you can play games and sing karaoke with the sisTers. Email Isa Madera (imadera@poets.whittier.edu) or direct message the Thalian Instagram (@thaliansociety) if you have any questions about the event. Go Thalians!
Resources For Ballin’ on a Budget
Jonathan Bermudez ASST. NEWS EDITOR
Being a college student is financially hard. Some companies know this and have specific discounts just for students to assist them in their time of need. Amtrak Most recently, Amtrak has announced a free train pass for all students. Amtrak makes trips all over California and one of the modes of transportation for students going back home on break from college. The way to sign up is by downloading the Metrolink app and registering with your school email. It will take a day for them to verify you are a student, and you should receive a train pass in your digital wallet. It’s a great back up to have if you need to travel out of the city on a budget. With Amtrak, you can travel to Fullerton, Van Nuys, Riverside and many more. CalFresh If you’re looking to save on groceries, then look into CalFresh. This isn’t as convenient to sign up for like the Metrolink, but it is very helpful if you are struggling to feed yourself. To sign up, look up CalFresh
Students and you should provide links to the application website to receive an EBT card. There is a process of being interviewed by a case worker since CalFresh is a government aid program, but if you already receive work study and a Cal Grant, you should have an easier time qualifying. Once you qualify, you are given up to $230 in government aid to get groceries. Most grocery stores accept EBT, but also small convenience stores like 7-11 accept it too. So it’s great to have for a snack run, and it won’t cost you anything. Amazon Prime Amazon Prime offers student discounts that give you access to all the benefits of Amazon Prime with the low monthly cost of $7.49. Some of the benefits include: free same day delivery, free GrubHub+, Amazon Video, Prime Gaming, and other deals for eligible items. If you need supplies, want to watch a movie, or download free games, then Amazon Prime is something you need. Spotify Spotify is one of the most popular music services and they offer student discounts. When requiring a membership, there is an option for
student discount. Once you verify the college you attend, you should be eligible to receive Spotify premium for $5.99 a month. With premium, you get no ads between songs, as well as the option to download songs so you don’t waste data, the option to play any song in any order, and better sound quality. Other benefits include Showtime and Hulu subscriptions that don’t change the price of the Spotify
subscription. Not only do you get a whole library of music, but also a collection of new shows and classic movies. DoorDash DoorDash has recently been offering a student membership for $5.99 a month. When creating an account for DoorDash, enter your school email and it gives you the option for student membership. They also offer a coupon for 50 percent off on your first order to help
Take advantage of student discounts!
get your food at an insanely cheap price. DoorDash really comes in handy when you need to finish an assignment and don’t have time to get food. The student membership does a good job at eliminating those delivery fees at a reasonable price. Most of the time, college students are on a budget and that’s okay. There are a lot of resources that will help you, you just need to know where to look.
Courtesy of Marca
8
OPINIONS
Nov. 9, 2023
War and Guns First, Everything Else Is Last Meylina Tran CAMPUS LIFE EDITOR
The United States is a nation built on the invisible principles of genocide, ethnic cleansing, and territorial invasion; so it isn’t all that surprising that the House of Representatives approved a bill to send $14.3 billion in military aid to Israel. The passing of the GOP-led bill comes just one week after House Speaker Mike Johnson took office, and rather than proposing a bill that contained a package both Democrats and Republicans could have tentatively agreed upon, Johnson chose to pursue a narrower bill that would alienate the Democrats. But where is the $14.3 billion the House proposed to send to Israel coming from? Johnson suggested cutting funding for the woefully understaffed, under-managed IRS. The bill would cut the proposed $14 billion out of the $80 billion that Biden’s 2022 Inflation Reduction Act allocated to the IRS, which would be put towards updating its decades-old computer systems, improving customer service, and stepping up enforcement for collecting the estimated $600 billion in taxes that go unpaid every year. Responding to the outrage stemming from the Congressional Budget Office, Johnson said, “If Democrats in the Senate or the House or anyone else want to argue that hiring more IRS agents is more important than standing with Israel in this minute, I’m ready to have that debate.” I don’t think he’s aware that the US is currently suffering from a dual labor shortage and unemployment crisis. People need jobs. We do not need the nation to throw us into a
Dear Poet, How do I break up with my boyfriend of five years? A Done Poet
When will the US choose to aid its people first? war that we cannot afford. The good news is that the bill is essentially dead on arrival in the Senate, not because the Senate is full of people who have good moral consciences, but because the bill is a partisan game. Democratic Rep. Jerry Nadler of New York claimed that once a genuine bill to aid Israel comes around, he “look[s] forward to voting for that bill. But the bill we are voting on today is just a partisan game. It is an insult to Jewish Americans, and it is an insult to our ally, Israel.” What’s difficult to comprehend is that the House is willing, even eager, to spend billions of dollars to aid Israel—who created the humanitarian crisis in Gaza by cutting off food and water, and launching white phosphorus bombs into the city—but they are not willing to forgive millions of dollars in student loans. Nor to solve the nation’s homelessness crisis. Nor to dedicate more funding to the nation’s public school systems, especially in minority communities. About a third of elementary school students across the country do not meet the expected reading levels,
Sarah Silbiger / The New York Times
twice as many are not proficient at grade-level math, and there’s no way for them to develop those necessary skills if every state is experiencing teacher shortages. If public schools continue to be underfunded, then students will receive a less-than-stellar education, which may lead them to rethink their path to higher education. No one wants to be saddled with thousands of dollars of student loans that they will never be able to pay off. Next thing, let us not forget that the government turns a blind eye to the steadily rising homeless population. Apparently, Biden only cares about the homeless veterans. This isn’t to say that homeless veterans should remain homeless but no one deserves to be homeless. Unfortunately, the House’s decision to devote all of their funds into nothing but the military tracks, and it is a decision that the House will continue to make even as public support amongst minority groups drops. According to Time Magazine, Palestinian and Arab-Americans have expressed outrage and a feeling of betrayal over Biden’s response to Israel’s
bombardment of Gaza. Although roughly half of the three million Arab-Americans residing in the US voted for Biden in 2020, only 17 percent of polled Arab American voters said that they would vote for Biden again in 2024. If I can play devil’s advocate for a moment, I get where Biden and his fellow Zionists are coming from. It’s easier to support someone that you share commonalities with. As I said before, the United States is a nation built on the invisible principles of genocide, ethnic cleansing, and territorial invasion–something that the US and Israel have in common. It would be hard to empathize with Palestine, considering that the US has never been occupied, bombed extensively, or its citizens forced to unlawfully evacuate. And hey, it’s our turn to launch missiles at the Middle East, right?
This article has been condensed for print. If you would like to read the full article, visit medium.com/ thequakercampus.
The Worst Of Both Wars: Who Do Celebrities Support? Meylina Tran
CAMPUS LIFE EDITOR
Modern celebrities are the curse that keeps on giving. I don’t know about you, but I’ve become very adept at discerning which celebrities have genuine political opinions and which ones don’t. The celebrities with genuine political opinions are typically the ones that take time to gather their thoughts before writing their own statements; they don’t post right away. They are methodical, and their words are meaningful, and their Instagram story proves that their definition of “research” doesn’t end at just reading headlines. The celebrities that don’t have a genuine political opinion are the ones who repost minimalist aesthetic infographics for their millions of followers to see. Those celebrities are mimickers and their messages are the ones oversaturating social media right now. Stranger Things star Noah Schnapp, for example, is a celebrity that I don’t think has a genuine political opinion, yet he posted a long, heartfelt message on his Instagram not coming out as gay, but as a Zionist. Kim Kardashian also posted a lengthy, confusing message on her Instagram, in which she addresses the letter to her “Jewish friends and family,” but then goes on to talk about how the current Israel-Palestine conflict reminds her of the Armenian genocide. However, she’s not showing support for Palestine—
which has a majority Muslim population—but for Israel. I’m not sure if Kim knows this, but Israel isn’t the one experiencing ethnic cleansing. They’re actually the villains. The Israeli nationalists aren’t the ones being exterminated at this very moment. The Muslim Palestinians are. However, it seems to me that many celebrities either don’t understand that or willfully refuse to recognize it. In the cases of actresses Gal Gadot and Natalie Portman, their support for Israel stems from the fact that they themselves are Israeli. What I find especially interesting about their respective statements—as well as the statements made by many other Zionist-leaning celebrities—is the failure to mention innocent Palestinian victims. In completely erasing the suffering of the other side, these celebrities are effectively painting them as the perpetrators rather than the victims. Which is a startling tactic, considering that the celebrities in support of Palestine not only mention the innocent Israelis caught in the crossfire, but they emphasize the pain and fear that both parties have undergone thus far. Unfortunately, in comparison to the 700 Hollywood stars who signed a letter in support of Israel, there are very few who exude that same kind of outward energy for Palestine. The Hadid sisters, Gigi and Bella—both of whom are Palestinian—are two of the most outspoken and consistent supporters of the Free Palestine movement. The two sisters shared
Big stars of the century are being watched. separate statements to their Instagrams, with Gigi Hadid expressing empathy for both parties and debunking the dangerous myth that to be pro-Palestine is to be antisemitic. Hadid’s message has received negative backlash by Zionist parties, including Israel’s legitimate Instagram account, in which they accuse Gigi of “turning a blind eye.” I won’t give you the full list of celebrities that have pledged their loyalties to Palestine, even though it’s a dreadfully short one. It’s disheartening, and every day it seems as if the chasm between celebrity Zionists and pro-Palestinians grows increasingly larger because, thanks to social media, celebrities feel like they need to post something lest they get “canceled” for remaining silent. Ultimately, it is the fear of being viciously criticized for underutilizing their massive platform, and engaging and “educating” their fanbase on
Courtesy of Kveller.com
global issues; combined with the short attention span of modern social media news outlet consumers; as well as the spread of misinformation. That leads many celebrities to react in impulsive and immediate ways. If a response is not given, the celebrity is immediately castrated by the media. Thus, in their minds and in this climate, it is better to speak than to say nothing. Say nothing! Especially when you’re announcing to your millions of followers that you support a Zionist state that has dropped roughly 6,000 bombs over Gaza in six days, and declared a mass evacuation of a million Palestinians from Gaza in an effort to ethnically cleanse the city.
This article has been condensed for print. If you would like to read the full article, visit medium.com/ thequakercampus.
Dear Poet, Thank you so much for your question! I’m so glad that you’ve decided to take the initiative to leave a situation that isn’t working for you anymore. Just because you’ve been in a relationship for a long time doesn’t mean that it can’t eventually run its course. Let’s find a way to do this gracefully. Sit down with your soon to be ex-partner and express how grateful you are of all the time you’ve spent together. Use “I” statements so that your partner knows that the decision has more to do with you and it’s not about them. Give them space to express themselves as well. This way, you can both speak and get closure out of this conversation. If your partner has been nothing but crap to you for the last five years, you should probably let them know. Think of it as leaving a review for a product that didn’t work for you. Although I don’t really recommend it, you can also take the Carrie Underwood route on this. Dig your key into his pretty little souped up four-wheel drive and slash his tires. This is pretty extreme, but you’re grown. You do you! If you’re not feeling any of these options, you can always just do some good old ghosting. Pack up your life, change your number, and never ever talk to them ever again. Unfortunately this isn’t a realistic option. It’s not fair to your partner or the friends and family that you’ve made through your partner. If you’re wondering what to do with all the stuff they’ve given you, here is my simple advice. If the stuff helps you get through the tough moments and it helps you wallow, keep it! If all it does is remind you of your soon-to-be ex-partner, throw it out! Donate it! Light it up! Whatever it takes for you to feel better. So Poet, I don’t know what led you to decide to end your long term relationship, but no matter how or why you are planning to end it, remember to take care of yourself after. Wallow all you want! Make sure you have a good support group so you don’t pull a Miranda Lambert. Five years is a long time and your partner was a constant in your everyday life. Now it’s time for you to find out who you are in this new chapter of your life. How exciting! Hope this helps, A Poet P.S. My editor just told me I can’t advise people to key people’s cars. Don’t do that!
Nov. 9, 2023
OPINIONS
9
Women Are Missing Their Jean Pockets! Estasia McGlothlin STAFF WRITER
You go to the store, find a cute pair of jeans, and eagerly buy them. The next morning, when you decide to wear them for the day, you take them out of your closet, put them on, and slip your phone in your pocket…only, it won’t go in. You try to shove it in over and over, but you can’t seem to fit anything in your pants’ pockets. Exasperated, you inspect further only to discover that there actually aren’t any pockets at all; they are sewn shut. The lack of pockets or, at best, presence of ridiculously shallow pockets is a common (and frustrating) experience for women. But why is it that women can barely fit anything in their pockets while men’s clothing can seemingly fit the entire world in theirs? The history of women’s pockets, or lack thereof, tells the story of the fashion industry’s consumerist handbag scheme, which operates to further gendered economic oppression and expectations. Once upon a time, during the medieval era, both men and women could be seen carrying handbags; well, not so much “carrying,” but rather, they were worn around the waist or hanging off of a belt, akin to a modern-day fanny pack. In the early 17th century, this started to change as men’s clothing began integrating sewn-in pockets, while women continued to utilize a tie-on pocket that was, “accessible through openings in the dress
and petticoats” or “for working women, they might be more visible and immediately accessible, worn just under an apron.” They were considered to be large and generally efficient, able to be placed on and off at the wearer’s desire with an average size of 40 cm long and 30 cm wide. This is a stark contrast to today’s pockets on women’s pants that average around 14 cm long and 15 cm wide. This transformation is due to the ever slimmer silhouette of women’s clothing that made the large tie-on pocket no longer practical with such aesthetics, ultimately leading to the decrease in pocket size and increase in the handbag industry. Towards the end of the 18th century, “without the dimension of the previous styles, fashion could no longer conceal a pocket under the skirt.” A new type of purse, known as the reticule, emerged. This was a small purse that could be worn around the wrist and was extremely popular for women at the time. From here on forward, purses began to morph into what we know them as today alongside the ever-growing global industry which was valued at $49.63 billion in 2021 with an expected yield of $78.46 billion in 2028. This industry relies on the impractical lack of pocket space that women are given, as, without pockets, women are forced to place their money and valuables into a space that is detachable and are able to be lost or stolen (also known as the purse). This alludes to longstand-
ing patterns of economic inequality where gendered social roles dictate that men hold the purchasing power and accordingly, “carried all the money, documents and keys— therefore, they were awarded with apparel functionality.” By failing to integrate pockets into women’s fashion, it restricts “the space in which women can keep things safe and retain mobility of both hands.” Not only is the way that women navigate the physical world altered, but women are forced to place their possessions in a public space. And “if you think this idea is outdated, think about the last time a woman asked her boyfriend/male friend/ anyone in men’s pants to carry her phone/wallet/keys on an outing.” While on the one hand the uptick in the handbag industry could be said to represent an empowered consumerism where purchasing power is held by women, it also unfortunately represents how the clothing industry can be utilized to limit women and uphold economic gender inequality. From constricting corsets to stockings that can easily rip, the lack of pockets in women’s fashion reminds us that, “this issue is rooted in a long history of gender inequality and the idea that women should be focused on appearance rather than function.” Their absence as a result of slim clothing restricts women’s physical mobility and creates additional barriers for women to engage in their hobbies and physical activities, due to impractical clothing norms.
Courtesy of breakinglatest.news Are small pockets a capitalistic tactic?
The lack of pockets and replace- not a priority, and upholds ecoment with handbags also represents nomic oppression by adding an adthe pattern of women experiencing ditional gendered cost through the additional financial burdens and substitution of purses for the lack necessary purchases despite the of pocket space. Whether a woman pay gap where women, on aver- wants to wear slim clothing and a age, make 82 cents for every dollar purse, or wear baggier clothes with earned by a man as of 2022. In the their items piled in an oversized keynote presentation, “The Cost of pocket, they should be respected Being a Woman,” Daniella Gibbs in their expression of individualiLéger states, “women’s shampoo ty and femininity in any way they is more expensive, women’s de- desire. Engagement with clothing odorant, women’s razors, haircuts, that has been used as an oppressive medical braces, getting a shirt dry force does not mean that a womcleaned, girls toys are more expen- an is a proponent of those values, sive, bicycles, backpacks, the list but rather that she is empowered goes on and on. And none of that in taking that form of control into of course includes the fact that 27 her own hands. While the discusstates currently classified menstru- sion about pockets is seemingly al products as luxury items, which minute, it relates to the pervasive levies even more costs on those inequality that women experience products because of the taxes asso- that permeates even the smallest ciated with them.” of spheres. Women have long been Pocketless fashion contributes to demanding equality, and what is social oppression by telling women one way to achieve it? By giving us that their hobbies and mobility are the pockets we deserve!
Courtesy of Quaker Campus
10
FEATURES
Nov. 9, 2023
Philomena Lopez-Rivas: Latinx Art for All Chelsea Bartilad
ASST. FEATURES EDITOR From a young age, Professor Phi-
lomena Lopez-Rivas has had an interest for art, always finding herself drawn to it. In high school, Lopez-Rivas attended a visual arts design academy in Pasadena, often volunteering at local organizations such as the Boys and Girls Club and the Pacific Asian Museum in Pasadena. “I learned the importance of art,” she says through a Zoom meeting, “and learned an appreciation for other cultures.” Behind the screen, she speaks with a calm demeanor, hands folded together with a reserved smile on her face, looking up in thought as she recalls her experience. These principles instilled in her at a young age followed Lopez-Rivas as a college student, where she continued to volunteer at various art institutions, such as El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument and the Getty. “I wasn’t really thinking too much about the long term, [or] the career route that I wanted to take,” Lopez-Rivas muses. As a first generation college student, pursuing art in higher education was not encouraged for her. Nevertheless, she was still drawn to creative pursuits, even considering a major in interior design. She adds, “I was just thinking about the importance for people to have community through the arts [both visual and performance] and how [they’re] relevant to the communities living in Pasadena.” While attending Pasadena City College, she took classes relating to
Chicanx identity and history along with indigenous studies, cultivating her interest in their history and how it is portrayed through art. In her first art history class, Lopez-Rivas recalls looking through her textbook, eager to find Latinx art, only to be disappointed that it was not included. “I had asked my professor when we would be studying that,” she recalls, “and she recommended [me] to take a pre-Columbian art history class which [...] was relevant, but it wasn’t what I wanted to study at that moment.”
tion of American Art. This analysis explores Bojorquez’s position in art as both an outsider and insider to different self-cultures, and how it offers a unique view to American art through the lens of a Chicano. His art stood out to Lopez-Rivas, as it “[...] opened up questions and different [...] topics [she] was able to discuss [in her research] such as youth subcultures, carceral aesthetics, and this aspect of history and myth within art history and Chicano art.” Throughout her journey in grad-
“Sometimes higher education seems unattainable for a lot of people, especially from the communities that I come from and belong to.” She pauses, collecting her thoughts, “Now that I completed my graduate studies, I think about how graduate education still needs to change in order to attract and retain diverse students.” While in graduate school, Lopez-Rivas was selected to participate in a fellowship one summer at the Queens Museum in New York City funded by Art Table– a feminist or-
“Sometimes higher education seems unattainable for a lot of people, especially from the communities that I come from and belong to. I think [that] graduate education still needs to change in order to attract and retain diverse students.”
-Professor Philomena Lopez-Rivas
After transferring to UCLA to complete her Bachelors, Lopez-Rivas began looking into getting a PhD. “I knew I wanted an advanced degree to have the ability to make a larger impact in the arts,” she says determinedly. After graduating from UCLA with a Bachelors in Art History, Lopez-Rivas pursued her PhD in the art history, theory, and criticism program at UC San Diego. “I feel proud that I did it,” she says after a pause, lost in thought about her experience. During her time in graduate school, Lopez-Rivas worked on her book-length research of Chicano artist Chaz Bojorquez titled Beyond Obscurity and Legibility: Chaz’s Deconstruc-
uate school, she reflects on how much more progress is needed for inclusivity in higher education. While at UCLA, Lopez-Rivas was a part of the Ronald E. McNair Scholars Program, a program that prepares first-generation college students and students from underrepresented backgrounds for graduate school. Looking back at her experience, she notes the importance of allowing minority students receive support to demystify the application process, along with having guidance to navigate higher education. As a first-generation college student, she notes that the lack of inclusion can make the college experience exclusive for minorities.
ganization geared towards empowering women in leadership positions in the arts. During her fellowship, Lopez-Rivas worked on curatorial projects and public programming, learning more about Latinx identities and migrant communities outside of Southern California, which inspired her to set her focus on Latinx art in graduate school. Reminiscing about her journey into becoming an educator, Lopez-Rivas says with a laugh, “It just happened.” While in high school, Lopez-Rivas served as a teacher’s assistant in the Armory Center for the Arts, helping students with their art projects. Through that experience, Lopez-Rivas found herself to
enjoy working with students and their conversations about art. She says with a look of admiration, “I think students offer unique perspectives and it’s rewarding for me to work with them.” While searching for colleges to teach at, Whittier caught her attention as it is a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI). “The fact that it [is] an HSI [and] to have that recognition is a huge accomplishment for any institution,” she says with high regard. She determinedly states, “I’m hoping to attract other students to learn about Latinx art [...] so they can understand the significance of it and hopefully understand diversity through another perspective.” She encourages students from all cultural backgrounds to learn more about art history and its cultural aspects. Currently, Lopez-Rivas is a Rustin-Mellon Postdoc Teaching Fellow in the Art & Visual Studies department, teaching Modern and Contemporary Latinx Visual Culture this semester, “The students are amazing,” she shares, “I’m impressed by their willingness to be challenged in the classroom and also the respect they have for their peers and how they engage with ideas that they may not always agree with.” As the fellowship lasts for three years, she hopes to continue her work at Whittier, sharing her love for art and inspire her students to continue learning outside the classroom. This article has been condensed for print. If you would like to read the full article, visit medium.com/ the-quaker-campus.
Melissa Mesinas: From Admissions to Community Building Jonathan Bermudez ASST. NEWS EDITOR
On the top floor of the SLC building, in a room to the far left, sits Doctor Melissa Mesinas. Upon entering her office, she immediately greets you with a smile. Before her “cultural awakening,” she grew up in Lynwood, Calif., raised by a single mother as the youngest of four. She always felt a great sense of belonging in her community, being of indigenous Oaxacan descent. “I grew up hearing this beautiful indigenous language, but technically, Spanish was my first language. Eventually [I] got into English from socializing with family and through[television and film],” said Mesinas, conversing like an old friend. The impact her culture had on her did not really dawn on her until she was in high school and college, when she started to think about her upbringing in relation to other people. “I noticed there were key similarities, but [also] many key differences and I wanted to know why.” This question was the catalyst to her education and interest in research. In high school she was part of a program at Scripps College called ‘Scripps College Academy’. At that point she was very familiar with colleges like Stanford and the Cal States but she did not know what a liberal arts school was. Her research into Scripps is what made her at-
tend. The idea of being at a smaller school compared to her high school of 4,000 students helped her make that decision. “It was also very important to me as a first generation student to go to college,” she said. At Scripps College she was in a first generation program and did admissions work. She developed a liking for doing admission work, which served as the foundation for her working later on. But her most impactful moment at Scripps was in her senior year. She had to do a study for her senior thesis psychology paper. “Back then you had to do an actual study, and I was like, ‘I don’t know what to do it on,’” Mesinas said, laughing at herself. Mesinas recalls struggling to figure out what to do for the project. A professor at the college told her she has the option to do a study about her community. “It gave me a new outlook on the culture of academia, and how I can choose to talk about my community and heritage.” For her study, she interviewed families with questions about their cultural involvement and ethnic identities of being indigenous Mexicans living in the US. She recalls, saying in an excited tone, “I think [it] just got the ball rolling for me, and [starting] opening the doors in interest of academia and research [for me].” After graduating from Scripps she took more research opportunities and thought to herself,
“I think I want to do this.” She decided to go for a PhD in Education at Stanford University. “I was like, ‘I don’t want to leave California. I’m a California person,’” she said with a smile. But, Mesinas did admit grad school was hard. “It was difficult because I don’t feel like I was being supported in finding my scholarly identity as a woman of color,” said Mesinas. She was willing to give things a chance and that attitude is what made her choose Stanford for her PhD program. Her motivation for school goes as far back as being a child and watching her brothers get up for work. She remembers how they would get up at four in the morning and work all day at an aerospace factory to make airplane parts. “I think I remember my mom saying ‘Do you want to wake up early like your brothers to go to work?’ and I was like, ‘No,’” she said while laughing. Since elementary school, she always turned in assignments early and got perfect attendance awards, but college was different. “College is just kind of sold to you. ‘Go to college for improvement! For a better job! A better income! And I bought into it,” Mesinas said. She had that internal question throughout college, grad school, and even now as a faculty member. She said that in college she never had an intellectual passion. “My goal was always just
to go to college,” she said. She was more involved with admissions and recruiting people of color to school. Mesinas admits that she never thought she would be a professor, and it took her a while to accept that she can be one. She wasn’t sure of the direction she wanted to go with her career, but she trusted her gut and gave teaching a try. This exploration is what led her to Whittier College. She originally was at Scripps College as a faculty member, where she realized that she enjoys working at a small liberal arts school just as much as she enjoyed going to one. She was near the end of her postdoctorate when she saw there was an opening at Whittier College for Bayard Rustin Teaching Fellow, a program that seeks graduate students or PhD recipients who are committed to
teaching equality and justice reform. While doing her research she had a revelation: “If I’m going to do this teaching professor gig, [I asked myself ] ‘Who do I want to teach?’” After going to predominantly white schools, she felt ready to teach a community she hasn’t been a part of since her childhood years. “The short answer is, it was y’all,” Mesinas said with a smile. She hopes that in the future she can build classes that explore the community of Whittier. A community that is a safe space just like her calm, clean, office on the top floor of the SLC building, where she greets with a smile. This article has been condensed for print. If you would like to read the full article, visit medium.com/ the-quaker-campus.
Courtesy of Stanford university Melissa Mesinas’ wants to create a safe space for all students.
Nov. 9, 2023
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
11
Cozy and Cool Fall Outings Shelby SIlva
diverse car exhibitions with a fellow car enthusiast.
A&E EDITOR
It’s that time of year when the leaves start turning to warm hues of orange and scarlet, the mornWant to know what our News Ed- ings become cool enough to wear itor is recommending this week? warm layers (only to shed them around noon), and the urge to Read on! rewatch 2000s comfort series like Gilmore Girls. With the holidays right around the corner, the desire to spend some quality time with those special to us increases. With this, here are some of the many activities you can do this fall, COURTESY OF SECRET BRISBANE from classic outings to charmingly COURTESY OF SPOTIFY unique events. Experience a romantic night at a candlit church with music. Artist: It’s difficult to choose only to participate in Los Angeles car a few artists, but if you’re into in- Stories Books and Cafe: If you are ist? Or perhaps you appreciate Van culture. Garage exhibitors include: Gogh’s art and would like to expedie/alternative, I’d check out The a bookworm and like munching South Bay popups displaying lowrience a 360-degree art exhibition. Sundays! They’re a ‘90s band with on a treat or sipping on a steaming riders, motorcycles, and a range some elements of Mazzy Star and cup of coffee, this cafe located in In any case, you will be surroundof other vehicles; SS Motorsports alternative rock. They are so under- Echo Park provides the best of both ed by beautiful art that transports appreciated in my opinion so, you worlds. You can treat yourself to a you into the psyche of this talented will display the newest modified need to add them to your coming- matcha latte and a lox bagel while artist with the support of audiovi- performance vehicles from brands suals and projections. In Monte- like Ferrari, Dodge, and Chevrolet; of-age playlist. searching for a book that speaks to bello-- just 15 minutes away from Current car collectors who will disyou. You can also check out their Whittier College-- book a date on play vintage vehicles into electric free comedy nights on Saturdays, their website before tickets run cars; and many more. Indoor and as well as book launchings that out. Tickets in November will be street test drives will also be availregularly take place on their patio. available only from Thursdays to able for people with a valid driver’s They are open seven days a week Sundays and will range from $30 license. There will also be music, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. During your to $40. Seniors, those with a dis- merchandise, and prizes with the time at Echo Park, you can explore ability, and students aged 13 to 26 collaboration of radio stations like COURTESY OF PLEX the hidden gems the area has to ofCALI 93.9 and 93.5 KDAY. SeverSeries: A show I’d recommend is fer, such as vintage stores and cool get discounted tickets at $25.90. al U.S. street food vendors will also none other than The Good Place. bars. be present, providing a variety of Los Angeles Auto Show: For the If you want to go into a (slight) cuisines, from Mexican food trucks car enthusiasts in your life, whether existential crisis but also have some Van Gogh: The Immersive Expethat is you or someone special to to Korean Fusion and Vietnamese laughs, I’d definitely recommend rience: Are you an artist or want it. If you’re into horror shows (and you, take a trip to the Los Angeles noodles. From Nov. 17 to Nov. 26, to take out someone who is an artare looking for good ones), I’d also Convention Center in Downtown grab tickets for $27 and explore the suggest Midnight Mass on Netflix. Sarah Licon NEWS EDITOR
Enchanted Forest of Light: Are you someone who enjoys the outdoors and would like to take a stroll in an illuminated botanical garden? If you are, then walking through the enchanting labyrinth-like paths in Descanso Gardens will be a promising outing with someone special to you. From a faux tulip garden and a lit-up field of grass, to mesmerizing stained glass houses, and a colorful misty forest, visit Descanso Gardens in La Cañada starting Nov. 19 to Jan. 7. Tickets range from $30 to $40, and you must book a time and date on their website. Candlelight Koreatown: A Tribute to Coldplay: Last but certainly not least is a candlelight concert taking place in a gothic church where the Orchid Quartet will play a tribute to the British pop-rock band Coldplay. This onehour event will consist of the string quartet playing a few of Coldplay’s beloved classics, such as “Clocks”, “Yellow”, and “The Scientist”. Nov. 17 will be the only day when this tribute to Coldplay will transpire in the Immanuel Presbyterian Church. Tickets range from $30 to $70, depending on what area you choose to sit in. Have a fun and sweet fall by exploring all there is to enjoy this season!
AI and The Beatles’: “Now and Then” Sarah Licon NEWS EDITOR
COURTESY OF The Gothic Bookworm
Book: A book I’ve been reading lately is The Secret History by Donna Tartt. It’s very gripping and it’s about a secret “society” in a private liberal arts college that leads to murder. I highly recommend it.
COURTESY OF Spicy Southern Kitchen
Snack: This is kind of basic but a quick go-to snack I’d recommend is graham crackers with peanut butter. You stick the two graham crackers together and get a sandwich. I really love this snack because it tastes kind of like a dessert and I don’t think a lot of people know about it.
COURTESY OF Visit Pasadena
Spot: A hangout spot I go to a lot (and isn’t far) is Downtown Pasadena. They have a lot of interesting stores there, especially book stores, and so many restaurants to choose from. Check out all the recommendations!
On Nov. 2, The Beatles released their latest (and last) single. Appropriately titled “Now and Then”, the simplistic lyrics are reminiscent of a late-love ballad, except with a twist. Leading the vocals is none other than John Lennon, who died in 1980. Surviving members Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr pieced together snippets of Lennon’s voice from demo tapes from the 1970s. The song took over two decades to complete, with production beginning in the 1990s. Along with the release of two “new” Beatles songs, titled “Free As a Bird” and “Real Love”, “Now and Then” was also in the works. But according to McCartney, this became difficult due to technological issues where Lennon’s voice became indistinguishable from other instruments. And to top it off, the band’s lead guitarist George Harrison died in 2001, stalling production. Now, with the addition of Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Fab Four were able to make a comeback, layering their instruments with recordings of Lennon’s voice. Tracks of Harrison’s guitar playing from 1995 were also incorporated, allowing all four Beatles to be part of production one last time. This was not the first time the dead were brought back for anoth-
er creative project. In 2019, the film Toy Story 4 featured the talking voice of the late comedian Don Rickles, pieced together by recordings of Rickles from the franchise. AI made its first appearance in 2020, dominating popular platforms such as TikTok and YouTube, through “mock covers” that feature singer-rapper Drake singing Ice Spice’s “Munch (Feelin’ U)”, or Kanye and Playboi Carti belting out the lyrics of Gotye’s “Somebody That I Used to Know” in a Youtube video with two million views. The song “Heart on My Sleeve” by Drake, featuring The Weeknd, was released in April 2023, without Drake or the Weeknd even recording it. According to Recording Arts Canada, this accessibility to Artificial Intelligence could threaten creatives in the music industry. Free websites, including VoiceMod and Splash Music, have allowed artists’ voices to be copied and pasted to create “new songs,” primarily using the music of other artists. The ability to add instruments and slow down music has allowed “covers” of these artists to be recorded. But the use of technology in the music industry is not a recent development. Holograms of past artists, including Tupac and Selena, have been utilized to produce “concerts.” Selena’s family, still profiting off the singer’s biopic, released not even two years after her death,
COURTESY OF CNET
Hear both living and dead members of The Beatles in their new song!
made plans to introduce a Selena tour in 2018, which would feature a hologram and new song material from Selena. Talks of Michael Jackson’s hologram going on tour have also been in the works. Recording artist SIXFOOT 5 believes this is a new age that demonetizes artists, either dead or alive. This was a major issue in the SAG-AFTRA actor strike, where a negotiation is to be made whether production companies will use AI footage to replace actors’ performances or use AI-generated people. And the performance industry is not the only one suffering. Schools are shifting their curriculums in response to the growth of ChatGPT, an AI that allows students to use material from other sources to conduct, for example, an essay. But, as seen by the completion of The
Beatles’ last song, some critics argue that AI could be beneficial to industries. According to the Harvard Business Review, AI can be applied to “augment human creativity.” The Review argues that resources, including ChatGPT, can help “generate ideas” that can expand thinking and allow humans to solve “unimaginable solutions.” Whether this be through music or in business, The Review argues that it can reduce the “expertise bias” of people and improve their collaboration skills. But whether people agree or not, AI has certainly raised questions about the future of the music industry. For now, artists will continue producing new music as the world introduces new modes of creativity.
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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Nov. 9, 2023
Five Nights At Freddy’s: Does It Satisfy? Allara Baker STAFF WRITER
Warning: Spoilers Ahead Five Nights At Freddy’s, the film adaptation of the beloved horror game franchise by Scott Cawthon, hit theaters on Oct. 27. With its test screenings and its first reviews from critics, most of them landed within 30-50 percent, with Rotten Tomatoes scoring it a 30 percent on the dot despite the critics’ reviews, however the audience’s reactions were fairly positive, scoring within the ‘80s. The film serves as both a first installment and a standalone title, with its own original story that combines both the overarching storylines of the first three games, and the plot bearing a slight resemblance to the original 2014 game. The plot follows the protagonist of the original game as well, Mike Schmidt (Josh Hutcherson) is a troubled former security guard who, after being fired from his last job, gets an offer to work as a night security guard at an abandoned family entertainment center, Freddy Fazbear’s Pizzeria. His younger sister Abby (Piper Rubio) and mysterious police officer Vanessa (Elizabeth Lail)
Courtesy of Bleeding Cool News Josh Hutcherson (unexpectedly) makes a comeback on screen in a horror film!
attempt to survive and uncover the secrets of the restaurant. All while Mike attempts to solve a mystery of his own, revolving around his younger brother, who was kidnapped and murdered years prior. A main critique among many fans, as well as critics, is that while the film had covered what it wanted (the franchise’s overarching lore), it fell flat in the short time it had to put it all together, resulting in a storyline that felt “all over the place.” The overall horror aspect of the film relied a lot on the plot as well, and less on what made the games scary
to many, which were the jump scares and overall gore. While there were some (emphasis on “some”) gruesome kills in this movie, a lot of it felt censored in order to meet the film’s PG-13 rating criteria. While I do agree that there are ways to make a film “scary” without relying too heavily on blood and gore, this film opted for a different approach, with the bloody trails and severed body parts being more of an afterthought than a main contributor to its genre. The final act and conclusion of the film were my biggest gripes with it overall. As the fifth night
occurs, major plot twists are revealed that are familiar to fans and presented in a very rushed, slightly predictable way to nonfans. It wraps up in a very wellknown scene to fans that had only been described/audio visualized in the franchise itself, with an ending that is, for the most part, a good one. Despite its shortcomings, there were some aspects of the film that many people, including myself, enjoyed as long-time fans of the series. Like getting to see parts of the lore–usually given to you during gameplay and in between the franchise’s various other ad-
aptations–get pieced together in movie format that felt satisfying. Various references, like the extremely well-done animatronics, and YouTuber cameos managed to distract me from the things I wasn’t a fan of, and made me remember at the end of the day who this movie was made for. While it failed to make sense of itself to newcomers and casual watchers/critics, it did leave an impression on the fans of the franchise who spent years waiting for a movie adaption. The moment where I felt a deeper connection to the movie as a fan was, surprisingly, during the end credits, when the titular song “Five Nights At Freddy’s” played, originally made as a fan song for the game by rock band The Living Tombstone. This song brought back memories of when I became a fan of the franchise after seeing the various content created by the fan base, one of them notably being that song. So whether you’re completely clueless about the franchise and want something that will, for the most part, fill you in on what made it a staple among horror games, or you’re a long-time fan who wants to see if your expectations have been met, then you’re in the right place.
Does “1989 (Taylor’s Version)” Go Too Big, Not Fast Enough? Meylina Tran
CAMPUS LIFE EDITOR
Welcome back to New York. Global superstar Taylor Swift released the highly anticipated 1989 (Taylor’s Version) on Oct. 27 as part of her endeavor to reclaim her first six studio albums. In 2019, according to mainstream media, Swift entered into a dispute with her former record label, Big Machine Records, over the ownership of the masters of her first six studio albums. After failing to purchase her masters from Big Machine upon the expiration of her contract with them, American music executive Scooter Braun purchased the label from founder Scott Borchetta, making him owner of all the masters, music videos, and artworks copyrighted by Big Machine, including Swift’s first six albums. After a series of public disagreements between Big Machine and Swift, the singer announced that she would re-record the six albums in an attempt to gain complete ownership over them. Swift’s decision to take control of her discography has prompted discourse from various musical artists, journalists, politicians, and scholars on the nature of artists’ rights, intellectual property, and the ethics of the music industry. The success of her previous three
re-records—Fearless (Taylor’s Ver- delicious. Especially when she says sion) and Red (Taylor’s Version) in the line, “I can make the bad guys 2021, and Speak Now (Taylor’s Ver- good for a weekend.” It feels tamer, sion) in July—has also sparked de- as if she’s moved on from who she bate about how the re-recordings was and who the media depicted have been—as one X user so aptly her as—which, given the absolute put it— “the perfect Trojan Horse frenzy over her dating history refor the ongoing project of giving cently (her quietly dramatic breakTaylor Swift a near-monopoly on up with Joe Alywn, her monthpop culture.” This critique comes long whirlwind affair with Matty at a time when Swift is arguably Healy, and the new flame sparked the biggest she’s ever been, follow- between her and Travis Kelce), ing the end of the first American there’s no way she’s moved on. leg of the Eras Tour and the box Her delivery of certain lyrics office domination of the Eras Tour: isn’t a problem isolated in “Blank The Film. Space (Taylor’s Version),” though. Right now, Swift’s star is bright- Perhaps it’s the distance that is preer than when the original 1989 venting those raw emotions from shot her into the stratosphere. But coming through, but there are a does 1989 (Taylor’s Version) live up few songs that are missing the vocal to the hype? Well… punch that originally made them Courtesy of Taylor Swift Official store Here’s the thing: the re-record so addicting. “Style (Taylor’s Verstarts off on the wrong foot. 1989 sion)” is an example of a song that Swift takes control of of her discography. is a big and loud album, but I feels flatter and less pithy. “I Wish growl she adds in the final, “And nally admit that the song is a suthink that—especially for the You Would (Taylor’s Version)”, we run!” of “I Know Places (Tay- perior track five. Not to mention opening track “Welcome to New likewise, seems to be missing that lor’s Version)”. the upgraded production on “New York (Taylor’s Version)”—the bite of desperation and angst that I know that I complained about Romantics (Taylor’s Version)” once re-record goes a little too big. The made it 12-year-old Meylina’s na- the production of “Welcome to again cements the song as one of the production drowns out her vocals, tional anthem. New York (Taylor’s Version)” be- “having fun in your 20s” anthems. and the opening synths are more But hey, it’s a new soundtrack I won’t beat a dead horse by ing too big, but that was, thankemphasized. waxing poetic about how her vo- fully, an isolated issue. The big- and you can dance to this beat. “Blank Space (Taylor’s Ver- cals have greatly improved in the ness of the album’s production is 1989 (Taylor’s Version) is out now sion)”, likewise, loses something intervening 10 years, but the im- otherwise welcomed, such as in on all streaming platforms. behind the pounding beat. Fur- provement makes each song fuller the bridge of “Out of the Woods thermore, for a song that satirizes and stronger (even if her delivery (Taylor’s Version)”—which is unthe media’s depiction of Swift as a ends up diminishing that power). doubtedly a top five Taylor Swift This article has been condensed man-eater, the re-record loses the There are times where she’s able bridge—and “All You Had To for print. If you would like to read bite of her delivery, the manic ob- to play around more with how she Do Was Stay (Taylor’s Version)”. the full article, visit medium.com/ sessiveness that makes the song so delivers certain lyrics, such as the Hopefully, this gets people to fi- the-quaker-campus.