Fowl Living Core Cambridge Sports Netflix Reviews INSIDE THE See what Marty the Keep up to date on Coach Paula Weishoff Find out what you Eagle is up to this what’s happening with Wins PacWest Coach of should be watching week! our Eagles in England the Year for Christmas! NEWS pg. 8 pg. 5 pg. 3 pg. 8

Volume 11, Issue 7 Concordia University Irvine Friday, December 9, 2016 Around-the-World Semester®: Feet, family and farewells KENDRA SITTON EDITOR-AT-LARGE Earlier tonight in a travel comfort as I travel far from fam- She found that now people group dinner, we discussed the ily and friends, and the places I constantly ask what her plans In the liminal space between first time the team gathered at call home. are and want her to join them. the hug of sleep and bright awake the Vezner house after receiv- “Community is a place to find “People don’t do that quite as of the loft, I listened to the patter ing our acceptance letters. The a home when you are traveling much on campus. You’re invit- of voices without individuality. conversation was choppy, intro- without one,” said Sophomore ed, but not pursued,” she ex- The warm buzz of people talking ductions overwhelming, games Adam Dougherty. In our nomadic plained. echoed along the wooden roof of awkward. Much has changed in lifestyle, the only permanence has “I don’t think I could have the open room in Ecuador. As if been each other. made it through a trip like this underscoring the joyful reunion “Community is If the team is home, like any without everyone,” said Bakker. before the climax in a movie, family, there are issues with “Collectively, the team has meant Vinh serenaded us with his guitar. a place to find feeling alone while surround- an ear to listen to me when I need With eyes closed, I only pieced ed by people, being annoyed by it and people to understand me together where people sat along a home when other’s quirks, conflicts not eas- and really knowing who I am,” he the narrow aisles of bunks when ily resolved. Going through cus- said. “We are constantly striving my teammates laughed. Each of you are traveling toms and onto airplanes with 38 to make each other better and Michael Hammerle, PC: Adam Lee their laughs was too personal, people is often clunky, difficult helping each other to know Christ without one.” said Senior Will Bakker who has too familiar to be mistaken for and complicated. “It’s kind of better.” With people from all grade struggled with a desire to en- another. Through this method, this group that once struggled in like being a part of a permanent levels, majors and backgrounds, gage the community of the team I mapped out that Sam was at learning each other’s names. Now group project... but more pleas- the only real universal factor on while also needing alone time to the front of the room with Nys- we are fully comfortable in ac- ant than that,” said Junior Laura the team was a foundation on Je- recharge. sa, Christian and Kyleigh sat be- cepting our feet being washed by Mietzner. It’s easy to resent each sus Christ. A time in which the stress of side me, Maddy was somewhere each other from the grimy reality other when sheer numbers add In the final week of ATW, the team seemed to dissipate was across from me. I enjoyed the of traveling. I was comfortable to the stress of travel. “Sometimes some of us are already separat- in Ghana. With no wifi and no waves of refreshment spilling enough to fall asleep on someone I just get overwhelmed with so ing in the community as we di- nearby towns, we ate each meal from those around me into my else’s bed while surrounded by a many people. And I just step vide between people so ready as a group and spent all our time near-dreams. party. This group has been my outside the community at times,” for home and people who never together. This time away from want ATW to end. As prepara- any other distractions allowed tions for going home heighten, for self-reflection as well as com- each of us grapples with holding munity searching. “In Ghana I on to the lessons and relation- saw the community change sole- ships most impactful this semes- ly as a result of God’s grace and ter. “On this trip I’ve learned the faithfulness. I saw people inter- more I get to know a person, the acting in ways they wouldn’t more I like them,” said Mietzner. have previously. I saw people So far into the trip, I live with- reconciling differences with each out that fear of judgment and other in very honest and open without the judgments I once ways,” said Dougherty. held. As the last girl to get her Many of our attitudes about feet washed tonight, partially be- the team have evolved as we began cause I spent the first hour of the to appreciate traveling in a group. party sleeping, I happily splashed “It was frustrating to always have my feet into the soapy gray water. someone by my side, but now I My feet have carried me kind of like that,” Mietzner said. across five continents and have At this point, she thinks any three the tan lines, blisters, callus- people on the team could hang es, scars and smell to prove it. out and enjoy it. She added, “I The past five months have held would never have talked to some hardships and joys, and, as Mi- of the people on this trip– we just etzner said, “ATW isn’t what I ex- didn’t have the same friend group. pected... but I’m really glad I went!” I’m really happy to get to know people on that level.”

PC: Adam Lee 2 Campus December 9, 2016 The most wonderful time of the year? DARBY SCOTT concluding the semester, Jona- three siblings. The Peleras fam- As students count down the vation, remember what is wait- STAFF WRITER than Predney, junior, said he is ily celebrates Christmas with a days remaining before travel- ing at home over winter break. looking forward to “spending 16-year tradition. “On Christ- ing home to spend quality time Predney wants to encourage December has been deemed time with family and getting mas Eve, we all open one pres- with family and friends, it is his peers to “keep pushing be- the most wonderful time of the lots of sleep.” Predney’s favorite ent, which is always matching also a reminder of how swiftly cause it’s almost done.” The year by Christmas enthusiasts winter break activity is his fam- pajamas, and then we watch the final exams are approaching. all-nighters and long study ses- around the world. However, ily’s tradition of caravanning to ‘Polar Express’ followed by ‘The Although it is an unforgiving sions are nothing compared to college students unanimously various suburbs around Orange Grinch,’” Peleras explained. week, Peleras admits she uses the satisfaction of doing well. cringe when they think about County to look at Christmas In addition to her dog, Sal- her busy schedule to her advan- In addition, Studdert re- what December means in terms lights. Admiring the decorative ly, Annie Studdert, junior, is tage. “The thought of seeing my minds everyone to cherish the of school: Finals week. Although lights has been a Predney fam- thrilled to go home to her other family gets me through finals,” family time and keep in mind it is rewarding to put another ily tradition for about 15 years, pets (including cats, chickens said Peleras “The more I study that Christmas is not just about successful semester behind us, and has become one of the and sheep) and spend time and the busier I am, the quick- gift giving. Remember the rea- it is astonishing how quickly family’s most cherished activi- with her long-distance boy- er break seems to come.” To son for the season and thank the 16 weeks pass by. College ties during the holiday season. friend. The Studdert activity Studdert, the thought of break Christ for all of life’s blessings, is tough, but many students Junior Victoria Peleras, is she is most anticipating is a distracts her from studying no matter how small they may are using their anticipation of also using her excitement for 20-year tradition: Ro-Sham- and the pressure of finals, but seem. Lastly, Peleras wishes the most wonderful time of the Christmas break as a means of Bo.”“It’s like white elephant,” she admits “it’s definitely help- “everyone a safe and fun win- year as a tool to stay motivat- pushing through finals. Much says Studdert, “everyone brings ing me remember that there is ter break where they are able to ed during this stressful period. like Predney, Peleras is eager a present and draws numbers light at the end of the tunnel.” enjoy and appreciate the time Finals week is filled with to spend quality time with her for their turn to pick, but if you Finals week is approaching, they have with their families.” sleepless nights, an overabun- immediate family and dogs. want to ‘steal’ you have to beat but there is no need to fall vic- To everyone struggling, good dance of pressure and remind- “We are all scattered around the person in rock-paper-scis- tim to its daunting nature. In luck on your finals and have the ers that it will all be over soon. for college,” said Peleras of her sors first, best 2 out of 3.” times of stress and sleep depri- most wonderful time of the year. To counteract the hardships Concordia Christmas inspires holiday spirit on campus SAMANTHA JENSEN STAFF WRITER ghipour, ASCUI president, was The co-chairs also decided whole event come together. also involved in the planning on the big-ticket events. Delan- “You can only do so much Concordia Christmas was process. She said, “As last year’s noy said, “[James] and I as co- on paper for planning it,” she held on Thurs., Dec 1, just in co-chair and current Presi- chairs decided on the sledding adds, “it’s such an awesome time for the holiday season. dent, I assisted in making the because it was a hit in the past. thing to see your vision actu- This Concordia tradition in- co-chairs to-do lists, giving ad- Everything else, the carriage ally come forth and see things vites the community, alum- vice or suggestions as needed ride, Santa, etc. is part of the that work and see how peo- ni, faculty, families and stu- and helping direct [James] to longstanding tradition of Con- ple are enjoying the event.” Marty the Eagle posing in front of dents to take a break. With whom she would need to talk cordia Christmas.” Delannoy Concordia Christmas of- Snoopy’s house, PC: Samantha Jensen a Charlie Brown theme, de- to for permission on campus.” also chose the food truck: Waf- fers a way for the whole school spite homework and finals James came up with the fle-icious. Other highlights in- to get together, take a break ships focused in Christ.” In leaving them saying “good idea for the Charlie Brown cluded a photo booth featur- from the stress of academ- addition, Delannoy said “it grief,” it was a great kick- theme. She loves the Pea- ing a life-sized Snoopy house ics and celebrate the birth of creates community among off to the Christmas season. nuts characters and Charles made by two members of Fu- our Savior. Sadeghipour said the student body and gives The co-chairs of the event M. Schulz’s simplicity in his sion, Marty the Eagle dressed the event is crucial because everyone a break from their were junior Jessica James, AS- comic strips. After choosing in a Charlie Brown shirt, “A “it directs the university’s at- responsibilities as a student.” CUI Secretary, and senior Bra- the theme, each group in- Charlie Brown Christmas” tention to the reason for the The semester may be draw- den Delannoy, LEAD Student volved (RES, PAL, Stagedoor playing in the amphitheater season, which is the fact that ing to a close, but be on the Activities Coordinator. Their 141, abbeywest, ISA, Fusion and live musical performance we have a Savior who came to lookout for more events like jobs were to oversee the de- and Alumni Association) was by Stagedoor 141, the cam- cleanse us of our sins. Further- Concordia Christmas by fol- velopment and functioning of asked to choose a represen- pus musical theatre group. more, it allows the Concordia lowing ASCUI on Facebook the event. Senior, Ariana Sade- tative to form a committee. James loved seeing the community to foster relation- @ConcordiaIrvineASCUI

Good luck on finals and Happy Holidays from The Concordia Courier staff writers! Tiffany Thompson, Editor-in-Chief Writers Kara Der, Layout Editor Anneliese Lane, Jami Derby, Darby Kayla Lardner, Campus Editor Faculty Advisor Scott, Blake Warye, Kendra Sitton, Don’t forget to “like” us Karina Diez, Local/Global Editor Caroline Janik-Wong Sarah Dixon, Alice Hoover, Samantha Yvette Mendoza, Sports Editor Jensen, Emily Chan, Celina Stratton, on The Concordia Courier Alexander Carr, Arts & Reviews Editor Ashley Sands, Kristen Saulman Facebook page. You’ll find links to PDFs of old issues and updates Letters to the Editor must be typed and The opinions expressed in on our current work. include the author’s full name The Concordia Courier are those Comments? Suggestions? and telephone number. of the contributors and do not Videos previewing the We want to hear from you. Letters that are printed may be necessarily reflect the views of the most recent issue will be Write a “Letter to the Editor.” edited for space and content. administration, faculty, staff or [email protected] Letters to the Editor do not student body of Concordia University. posted as well. necessarily reflect the views of Editorials reflect the views of the The Concordia Courier. majority of the editorial staff. Follow us on Instagram @ConcordiaCourier too!

1530 Concordia West, Irvine CA, 92612 The Courier staff asks that you dispose Delta Lounge of your copy in an environmentally- [email protected] cui.edu/studentlife/student-newspaper friendly way. Thanks! December 9, 2016 Sports 3 Ammann Coach Paula Weishoff wins looking to keep PacWest Coach of the Year JAMIE DERBY STAFF WRITER pands far beyond Concordia. Men’s Basketball She is no stranger to winning Women’s volleyball coach awards, such as most valu- Paula Weishoff won PacWest able player and hall of fame coach of the year and led her acknowledgements. In her soaring high team to the PacWest title in career, she has played and their second year of NCAA coached on the USA Volleyball BLAKE WARYE STAFF WRITER With NCAA Division II PacWest competition. The Team, taking her to the Olym- in the future, the basketball 26-3 overall record and out- pics in 1984, 1992 and 1996. In 1998, she was inducted into the Men’s Basketball Head team hopes to continue their standing statistics this sea- son certainly show the hard USA Volleyball Hall of Fame. Coach, Ken Ammann is strengths this basketball sea- work and dedication from Weishoff’s successful career in his 16th season as head son.Students, faculty and the players and coaches. has also continued during her coach, the longest tenure of staff are highly encouraged Along with Weishoff’s hon- previous time at Concordia, any coach in Concordia’s his- Head Coach, Paula Weishoff to come out to the home bas- or, five Eagles were selected to when she coached from 2004- mentality, which was to get 1% tory. Ammann has 406 wins ketball games. Senior Alisha All-PacWest teams, which is 2008. She was named NAIA better every time they stepped in 520 games over his previ- Alexander stresses the im- the most in the conference and Coach of the Year in 2008 af- out into the court. Dennison ous 15 seasons. He has turned portance of cheering on the in program’s history. Junior and ter leading the Eagles to a 31-6 said, Weishoff “loves the game this program into one of the athletes to “show pride in outside hitter, Rachel Flynn, overall record. Dennison de- and puts her heart into it and premier non-NCAA Divi- [our] school” Senior Benja- was selected to the First Team scribed how “the award will that’s what separates her from sion I programs in the coun- All-PacWest and Senior, Taylor never come close to how great min Haight added, “basket- so many other coaches.” Den- Dennison, was selected to the of a coach and person she is.” try. With the move to NCAA ball games are the premier nison received her second All- third team. Ellie Ladensack, The ability to get a group of Division II, the team hopes PacWest honor and says this Morgan Nunley and Amber players motivated and striv- to continue this success. year provided “a well-balanced Rose were named Honorable ing for the conference title is Last year, which was also team with a ton of chemistry.” Mentions. With a powerhouse no easy task. “Coach Paula the team’s first season in Dennison expressed her grat- team, the Women’s Volley- Weishoff is one of the great- the PacWest conference, itude towards her years spent ball program took home the est coaches I have ever had at Concordia as a volleyball was a record setting one. PacWest title. “We were more the opportunity to play for” player by saying, “playing with The men finished last sea- familiar with the PacWest in said Dennison. Mo Roberson, some of my best friends and son with a 22-6 record and the second year so we knew Director of Athletics, spoke winning the PacWest Cham- tied for first place in the what we were up against,” said about Weishoff and her pro- pion title is just unreal and PacWest. They also set a so bittersweet to end my ca- PacWest record for the Best reer.” Having five seniors this Finish Ever for a program in year, Weishoff explained how their first year in the con- they “really drove the team ference. Last year was Am- Head Coach, Ken Ammann and knew what they want- mann’s 13th 20-win season. ed from this season, which The Eagles went 2-0 in the chance for fun on our cam- was to leave a legacy for fu- Ayres Thanksgiving Classic pus.” He adds that “this is ture generations to follow.” back in November, which the best chance to see a pri- Weishoff said she feels she put them in a positive po- mary sport on our campus.” has “the best job and [is] so sition for conference play Some of the key home game blessed to be at Concordia which began early in De- dates are: Dixie State Univer- with a great group of girls, staff and support from adminis- cember. The Eagles kicked sity on Jan. 16, Hawaii Pacific Head Coach, Paula Weishoff on the USA Olympic Volleyball team tration.” She looks forward to off PacWest play on Dec. 1 University on Feb. 4 and Cal- next year when they are able with an 85-68 win against ifornia Baptist University on Flynn. “We were determined fessionalism as well as her to participate in postseason Feb. 23. The Homecoming to win the championship, es- ability “to mold a team into a Azusa Pacific University play and the team will have game will be against Cham- pecially since we didn’t do conference champion.” Rob- with whom they shared the the chance to test themselves inade University on Jan. 28. as well the year before.” Fly- erson noted how Weishoff conference title last season. at the national level. Rober- nn also credits much of the gives her best and “helps her This was a positive start to Grab a friend and come see son also expects next year’s team’s success to the coaching student-athletes excel [with conference play for the team, Ammann and the Men’s Bas- women’s team to be just as skills of Weishoff, stating that her] ability to get them men- as it was a step in the right ketball Team continue to fly competitive as this year’s team she “is a huge part of why we tally and physically prepared.” high. To check out the full and believes they will be a fa- direction towards the team won the championship title.” Weishoff and Dennison men’s basketball team sched- vorite pick to win conference. goal of a conference regu- Weishoff’s experience ex- both emphasized the team lar season championship. ule, go to cuieagles.com.

PC: jeff Duran Courtesy of Concordia.com 4 Local Interests December 9, 2016 First person: making your mark EMILY CHAN STAFF WRITER that you have to change the en- Senior Kaitlyn Miller ex- want to continue to advocate for and the student senate was a tre- tire world. I believe if you are plains how she chose her major, children and their needs, both in mendous place to start learning As the semester is ending, able to say that you made a dif- “My major is Liberal Studies the classroom and in the com- what that entails.” Some of the many things are on the minds ference in at least one person’s with a concentration in Child munity. The best way to make things he is working on with of students as some of them are life you made your mark. Often Development. I am also working this mark is to continue to listen the rest of the student body is preparing to cross the finish line times, people do not actually on my special education teaching to my future students and pro- drafting project proposals which and enter the real world, others vide the best education I can for include: cleaning up Rho and are just starting to hit their stride each child that I come across.” Sigma and addressing general is- and many are coming back to Here on campus there are so sues of safety.Making your mark continue making their impact. many opportunities to give back does not only apply to making But there is one semester left and to make an impact;through a difference in someone’s life, before summer. Each of us want- class, working as a tutor, living on making a mark could also mean ing to make our mark in some campus, joining an intramural that you helped the campus form, or so I wish to believe. team, ASCUI, abbey west, volun- or environment by volunteer- From my perspective as a teering at the Heritage Garden, ing in our Heritage Garden or freshman, when asked, “What joining fraternities, becoming a even picking up random pieces do you want to be?” or “What PAL or an RA, going on mission of trash lying around campus, do you want to do with your trips, studying abroad or just sit- the opportunities are endless. life?” I think to myself, “I do not ting in The Box and talking to a Whether it is doing things for know what I want to be because total stranger. Each of those ac- your chosen career, on campus, why do I need to know now?” tivities can help you understand or something in the environ- Yet I answer, “I do not know, that you can change a person’s ment, ultimately it is to make but I do know that I want to be views and experiences, or in this the world a better place. I do not PC: Emily Chan remembered. I remember read- case, the community on campus. mean that you need to be a per- ing a story that says that a per- know that they made their mark credential. I have known since I Sophomore Katherine Olea fect person to make a mark or a son dies three times. The first in other people’s lives. And even was a little kid that I was going to said, “I became a PAL because I change, sometimes just going to time when they actually die, if they do not, they will not be be teacher but I never imagined I wanted the incoming freshmen a shelter a few times or talking the second time when they are forgotten for that person whose would do special education,” said class to have an easy transition to someone new can make a dif- buried and the third time when life they changed will always re- Miller. “Then my little broth- into the ‘college life’ and help them ference. By being aware that you they are forgotten. So essen- member what they did for them. er was born, and to me he was, with any questions they had.” can make an impact in lives is tially, nobody dies completely. God puts people in your life and still is, the most perfect lit- ASCUI is another great ex- enough. You can always make They live on in the memories of and you in other’s lives for a tle bundle of joy. After two years ample of how people are mak- a difference in someone’s life others and are always watching reason; ultimately it will make a of being alive, he was diagnosed ing their mark on the school whether it is now, or 20 years over you. I want to be a person change in both parties and help with autism and also a speech by conveying the thoughts of from now. Making your mark who is remembered for doing shape each of you to become deficit, which makes him non- students to administration in is not something you can just something that made a change. the person you are today. In re- verbal. He is now 12 and I can’t order to give students a voice cross off of a list and go on your I want to make my mark.” lation to vocation, some people imagine doing anything with my and ultimately help the campus. merry way once it is complet- Yes, that is a mouthful but have very strong callings in cer- life other than helping children Freshmen Josiah Popp said,“I ed, it is something that hap- many people actually resonate tain fields while others are still like him.” Regarding her impact decided to join ASCUI because pens continuously in life and with the idea of making a mark. finding theirs–for finding your in the community, Miller said, “I my long-term goals include be- can easily have a domino effect Making a mark does not mean vocation is never said to be easy. coming a public policymaker, to become something bigger. Students share their experiences in Guatemala SARAH DIXON STAFF WRITER Catholic and Evangelical church- a feast. Junior Bailey Pope said makes beautiful things. Some- to, and it was very eye-opening es.“When I heard that there was that on Thanksgiving day, they times we just need to wake up to see the joy they still had de- From Nov. 19 to 27, a group of going to be a VBS I knew there planned to eat a simple lunch and see all of the life He has spite their circumstances,” said Concordia students spent their would be an opportunity for and found tables set up with a to offer for us,” said Kelley. Pope. “This experience really Thanksgiving break on a mission me to help show the children feast of traditional Guatemalan Pope said that on the last day put ‘money can’t buy happiness’ trip in Guatemala. Concordia she found herself standing in in a whole new perspective.” partnered with Central Ameri- a crowd of children in silence. Kelley said that after experi- can Lutheran Missions Society “It was crazy for me to see how encing the beauty of Guatemala, (CALMS) to help provide the much just our presence meant to she knew someday she would village of El Progreso with clean them, even if we can barely com- have to come back. “I knew that water while putting on a Vacation municate,” said Pope. “It’s unbe- even when we left Guatemala, Bible School (VBS) for the chil- lievable how those bonds form.” God would be there with the dren. Students shared the joys of From this trip, Pope said she people, He would be speaking helping the children of Guatema- took away the importance of the Word to them, and bringing la and sharing the Word of God. joy. “Those kids had nothing in other teams through CALMS “Have you ever woken up so comparison to what we are used to help spread the Gospel.” excited for the thrill of a new ad- venture that you awoke before the rooster crowed? Well, the first morning when I woke up in La Union, before we headed down to the village of El Pro- greso I went up on the roof,” said Lauren Kelley,junior. “I was in wonder to see what all God had in store for me on this trip.” Kelley said that, alongside Lauren Kelley (left) and Bailey Pope (right) 13 team members, they headed out to the village of El Progreso of El Progreso the light, and food. “The people of El Pro- to help, in service with CALMS truth of the Bible,” said Kelley. greso cooked us a huge meal to and Bethany Lutheran Church Although these students de- thank us for what we were doing doing VBS, house visits, wom- cided to use their Thanksgiving there,” said Pope. Kelley also said en’s afternoon crafts and soc- break to go on this mission trip, this was a moment she would cer time, while they visited the they did not miss out on having always remember. “I know God The whole group December 9, 2016 Global Interests 5 Core Cambridge - Reading the tea leaves Semester by semester, Concordia students study abroad at Westfield House as part of Concordia’s Enduring Questions and Ideas (Q&I Core) Cambridge program. Under the instruction of CUI professors Dr. James and Dr. Susan Bachman, these students study English and History, attend Cambridge University lectures, and take part in other required and elective courses offered by Westfield House of Theological Studies. Each week, the students or professors share with Courier readers some of their favorite observations about life and study in England.

James and Susan Bachman: Professors talk a lot. Today we’re happy to let our terrific students have the last words of the term.

Aaron Borkovec: One of the most important aspects Benjamin Lange: At the beginning of the semester, Jared Peterson: My experience here at Cambridge— of Cambridge for me would have to be the focus on learn- daily chapel felt excessive and unnecessary. However, I unforgettable! It goes without saying—but I’ll say it— ing rather than a grade. This was reinforced when Ben eventually found that praying every morning as a com- studying abroad in such a prestigious city offers an im- asked Dr. Boris Gunjevic about our grades in the class, munity was conducive to growing together as friends and mense opportunity. However, the moment this foreign and he told us that we all are likely to get A’s; this meant to improving my spiritual life more than I ever thought. country became familiar to me was the moment I realized that now we could focus on learning. In Cambridge, we I’m really glad that I gave that a chance. Moving from the how significant this semester really was. I couldn’t even all learn about ourselves too. Everyone here in Luther Hall sublime to the, well, opposite: British food is notoriously find my way around CUI’s little campus until my second is used to hearing my not-so-soft voice, except when I pop bland, and I found myself really missing American salty, semester. Now I needed to navigate Cambridge?! Oh, I’ve up behind them as I ask, “How’s it going?” Curiosity may greasy junk food and opted for too many pizzas. gotten lost, and still do sometimes; but this place is home have killed the cat, but for me, making people jump just to me now. gets me in trouble and brings forth prompt shushes.

Carmel McGee: “I owned every second that this world Madison Kreinheder: While living here, I experienced could give. I saw so many places; the things that I did. Emma Stanton: From the start, I knew I couldn’t pass a side of the academic world that I had not encountered Yeah, with every broken bone, I swear I lived.” - I Lived, up Cambridge. I’ve come far from my August me to the De- previously. This was the first semester I didn’t take a sci- OneRepublic. cember me. Was there stress? Of course. It’s no fun without ence course. However, I was able to step out of my comfort Coming to Cambridge was one of the best decisions I challenges. In a scholarly British society like Cambridge, zone and into the literary world of Chaucer and Shake- may ever make. I learned to accept that failure happens, tight city living can be a shock. Everything scrunches so speare that I may not have had the opportunity to fully but that doesn’t mean my effort was unimportant. Cam- snug and close together. But what fun when you randomly delve into otherwise. bridge has been my own little fairy tale, and I wouldn’t bump into one of your classmates, or even your roommate trade a single second, not even the bad times, because they (or someone who really looks like the Duchess of Cam- taught me so much. Well, maybe that’s not true… I might bridge!) while walking back from the market. trade the few seconds I tried marmite because that was just bad, but everything else was okay.

Lauren Shon: Cambridge means growth for me. Spiri- tually, relationally and academically. My relationship with God since being baptized has been challenging, yet I’m Sam St. John: From the land of royalty and admiral- seeing all the more reasons to praise God for the good He is ty, science, literature, and liturgy, lochs and fens, chimney doing to strengthen my relationships, both continuing and Jonah Laws: Always try. Early in the semester, I an- tops, mistletoe, and rosy-cheeked children in the frosty air, new. Academically, I have enjoyed this semester beyond swered a question wrong in class, and Dr. Susan said, “You Blessed Advent and Christmas. As Tiny Tim summed it expectations, thanks to our friendly faculty and persever- are wrong, but I appreciate that you try.” It has become a up: “God bless us, everyone!” ing peers! A humorous self-realization I came to is that running joke, but also something I’ve spent time meditat- while abroad, I’ve become Hermione! I nag my friends to ing on. If you never try, you will never learn. If you don’t finish their own work–because it’s important, people! fail, how will you know how to pull yourself back up? 6 Arts December 9, 2016 A night of peace KRISTEN SAULMAN MUSIC COLUMNIST ence was swept into the song’s rhythmic cadence. Sat., Dec. 3 was open- Performances like this are ing night for the Concordia what make the Christmas con- Christmas concert series. The cert so unique. It takes the dark evening was accented by musical talents of several of the soft lighting and cool at- Concordia’s music ensembles, mosphere of the CU Center, including all four of Concor- and the Christmas decorations dia’s choirs, the Concert Han that adorned the interior made dbells, Concordia Sinfoniet- it feel a bit like home. The ta, and the Concordia Wind concerts theme was peace, and Orchestra, and blends them beginning with an opening lit- all into one show. Even if you any that turned an “Evening have already seen one or more Liturgy” into a beautiful song of these groups perform indi- communicated that theme vidually, there is something from the beginning. The con- special that occurs when the certs official title, And on groups come together, layer Earth, Peace, alluded to Luke their voices and instruments, 2:14. It reads, “Glory to God and create a lovely musical in the highest heaven, and performance. Many of the on earth peace to those on concert pieces had the Con- whom His favor rests.” With cordia Sinfonietta accom- calming songs and beauti- panying one or more of the ful music, the concert deliv- choirs’ songs. One song that ered on its promise of peace. combined the talents of both Musical selections included Donne di Canto and Sinfo- classical Christmas favorites nietta was “What Child,” an such as “It Came Upon a Mid- English carol rendition of the night Clear,” and lesser known Christmas song “What Child holiday carols like “The Work is This.” It was really special Of Christmas.” Although some to hear the gentle voices of the of the music was less familiar women combined with the soft than others, the performers notes of the orchestra to cre- were wonderful and show- ate a powerful swell of music. cased their talents beautifully. Hoping to get into the In fact, an African carol titled Christmas spirit by seeing “Noel,” was easily one of the one of the Christmas con- highlights of the night. Don- certs? Tickets are still available ne di Canto, the Concordia for the performance tomor- Choir, the Concordia Mas- row at 3:00 p.m. Tickets can ter Chorale, the Concordia be purchased and additional Men’s Chorus, and a selection musical performances can be of instrumentalists came to- found at http://www.cui.edu/ gether, energy radiated from en-us/academicprograms/un- the performers, and the audi- dergraduate/music/calendar. Honors Recital: Star strings, wonderful winds, brilliant bells and snappy singers ANNELIESE LANE peers watching her performance time of writing, those interest- The students that perform al,” said Sarah Dixon, President STAFF WRITER is incredibly motivating. When ed in attending can find out during the Honors Recital are of the Women’s Choir, junior. the only sound in the room is who’s performing what with a chosen during the end of year “All vocal students go to the The Fall Honors Recital will going to be your voice or your short walk over to the music musical juries. “We all perform Honors Recital and listen to the be held in the CU Center on Dec. violin, who wouldn’t want to building where student names individually for the jury, and performers that were chosen.” 12 at 5 p.m. This recital, free for practice until they were perfect? will be posted. The performers then they pick a select number Preparing for the Honors all students, puts the best of Con- While the final lineup of names should also be posted on of people who did an exception- Recital is hard work. “You are cordia’s musically talented on performers was unavailable at the Concordia Music website. al job to be in the honors recit- playing for the entire popula- display, giving students an op- tion of music majors, music mi- portunity to reflect on the prog- nors, and private lesson students. ress they’ve made and show the There’s much more pressure to campus what they’ve learned. make an excellent performance, Not sure what to expect? Past so generally you’ll be practicing Honors Recital student, Josephine more,” said Thompson. “On top Thompson, junior, who has been of school work, this can make playing violin for all three of her for one stress ball of a student.” years at Concordia, shares why it is As the name might imply, per- such an incredible event to attend. forming in the Honors Recital is “My favorite part of the recital has an honor. Singing quality and in- to be hearing a performance on an strument expertise are the stan- unexpected instrument. Instru- dards used to choose performers. ments like harps, solo handbells So come join the party and listen and alto vocalists. But of course, to some of Concordia’s most ded- the best part is seeing [everyone’s] icated music students. For more improvement,” said Thompson. information about the event con- The Honors Recital features tact Mike Zelazo, Director of Op- many outstanding soloists. Per- erations in the Music Department forming solo can be stressful, or visit online at http://www.cui. but it can also be inspiring. edu/en-us/academicprograms/ Thompson said the pressure she undergraduate/music/calendar. feels from all her classmates and Courtesy of pixabay.com December 9, 2016 Everything Eagles 7 CU Give Back excites and exceeds expectations ASHLEY SANDS the incredible interest in support- we have been blessed with and the effort, with all of Concordia’s week and one where we have so STAFF WRITER ing the campus. Wendy Leivan, importance of giving back,” said departments and supporters many off campus projects for Director of Advancement Ser- Tim Jaeger, Executive Vice Presi- working together to get the at- the students to be able to go into On Nov. 15, Concor- vices and Director of the Annual dent for University Advancement. tention of students and donors. the community and Give Back.” dia’s friends and family raised Fund, said, “This year we really Concordia showcased the During CU Give Back, every With the success of this year’s $144,198 during the second an- tried to get the message out to as many programs and ameni- inch of our campus was adorned Day of Giving, Concordia can nual CU Give Back. This event many people as possible. We tried ties offered here, from our in posters, balloons and support only thank the generous support- encourages students, alumni and to reach people where they live, many successful sports teams from students, faculty and staff. ers who graciously gave back. the community to give back. The so social media of all types was to our Theater and Art Depart- Leivan said, “We are so thank- The donations will help support proceeds are donated and support used and extremely important.” ments. “CU Give Back is a way ful for all the students, faculty, Concordia’s many academic and everything from student aid and With almost $150,000 raised for many of the different clubs staff and donors who participated extracurricular programs in need scholarships to the DCE program in total, Concordia graciously and activities to tell their story, this year. Now that they’ve seen of extra funding to meet their and Guatemala Water Initiative. appreciates its benefactors. “An make people aware of the great the concept of a campus wide academic and spiritual goals. Despite the event’s short his- activity like Giving Day allows things happening and generate Giving Day, we hope to see it just To everyone involved in co- tory, 2016’s donations not only our whole community (alumni, some excitement and support explode next year. Next year we ordinating, volunteering or do- surpassed expectations, but en- parents, donors, faculty and staff) for their programs,” said Jaeger. hope Giving Day will stretch to nating, your support directly couraged the coordinators to ex- to grow in appreciation for what This was truly a campus-wide two days. One like you saw this impacts Concordia and we thank tend the day by 12 hours due to you from the bottom of our hearts.

PC: Caroline Wong Holly-Jolly events to cure finals blues ALICE HOOVER STAFF WRITER perfect event to chill out before stinca.org/civicax/calendar/inc/ sleigh the holidays is by attend- jolly events not be possible; there finals and see your friends before blobfetch.aspx?BlobID=26425 ing the 31st Annual Candle- is still hope! While the weather Have finals got you down? heading home for the holidays. If one tree lighting isn’t enough light Walk at the Heritage Hills outside is frightful, the Irvine Are you desperately in search of Is Dec. 14 too far away? Fear to brighten up those finals blues, Historical park. This event will Spectrum Ice Rink is delightful! events to go to with friends be- not! The City of Tustin Parks and jingle on down to the 108th New- be taking place on Sat., Dec. 10 The Irvine Spectrum has an Ice fore heading home for winter Recreation Department will be port Beach Christmas Boat Pa- and Sun., Dec. 11 from 5:30 -8:30 Rink that is available from now break? The Courier has several hosting their Annual Holiday rade! Occurring from Wed., Dec. p.m. Parking is free and the event until early February. The cost options that will make you merri- Tree Lighting ceremony on Fri. 14- Sun., Dec. 18, the Commo- itself costs $5. Candles and car- with skate rentals is $20, but if you er than ol’ Saint Nicholas himself! Dec. 9, from 4-9 p.m. Located just dores Club of the Newport Beach olers will light the pathways as bring your own skates it will be Like any good celebration, you a few miles from campus, head Chamber of Commerce hosted you stroll through this whimsical $16. This outdoor skating rink is can start by decking the halls at out to the Tustin City Hall to en- event will feature boats decked event. There will be Santa, hol- located in the Giant Wheel Court, Beloved and Battalion’s event, Tis joy the festivities. In addition to out in beautiful displays of holiday iday tales, holiday radio shows adjacent to Macy’s and Nord- the Season to be Jolly! Gather all the tree lighting itself, there will spirit sailing along the waterfront. and Flamenco dancers at various strom. For more information visit your friends, a substantial amount be performances by community Each day, the festivities will begin places in the park. Hot Cocoa, www.shopirvinespectrumcenter. of cheer and head to Concordia’s groups and a special reading of at 6:30 p.m. and there is parking Apple Cider and cookies will be com/entertainment/ice-rink/. Kappa Lounge, located in the Up- “Rudolph the Red Nosed Rein- in the city parking lots as well as available for purchase as well. Don’t just be an elf on the per Quads on Wed. Dec. 14. 7-9 deer.” The event is free to attend along the parade path. For a map For more information, visit www. shelf this holiday season; go out p.m. You will have the opportu- and the Tustin Community Foun- of the parade path and schedule, destinationirvine.com/includes/ and have a blast with these fun nity to make ornaments, deco- dation will have refreshments visit www.christmasboatparade. calendar-of-events/31st-An- events in the Irvine area! Just rate cookies and compete in an for sale. For further informa- com/parade-route-and-schedule/ nual-Candlelight-Walk/19499/ remember, you better not pout, ugly sweater contest. This is the tion visit the website: www.tu- Another wonderful way to Should visiting one of these and you better not cry, because these events are sure to fly by! 8 Reviews December 9, 2016 Netflix Reviews: A merry selection of movies A column that details the highs and lows of Netflix to assist Concordians in the ongoing struggle of picking something to watch. CELINA STRATTON STAFF WRITER (12 Years a Slave) and Hugh Grant Dermot Mulroney (The Wedding but it’s not all crazy antics and famous version of the song “White

(About a Boy)...just to name a few. Date), Rachel McAdams (Mean humor. As the plot unravels, Christmas” came from this 1954 Instead of reviewing one par- This 2003 Christmas-themed Girls), Ty Giordano (A Lot Like drama shapes the way the Stones classic starring Bing Crosby. ticular movie or TV series, here is film follows eight very different Love), Luke Wilson (The Royal approach life after this fami- According to imdb, the sto- a short list of my Christmas favor- couples with interrelated subplots Tenenbaums) and Elizabeth Reas- ly revelation. The familiar faces ryline follows Bob Wallace ites to watch this holiday season. who are all dealing with the ups er (The Twilight Saga) play the truly make it feel like this family (Crosby) and Phil Davis (Dan- “Love Actually” and downs of love and life set dysfunctional children of Craig T. is welcoming you to take a peek ny Kaye) leaving the Army af- Now this is pretty much my during the five weeks leading up Nelson (The Incredibles) and Di- inside their lives and it all comes ter WWII and becoming a top all-time favorite Christmas movie to Christmas. Sure it is technical- ane Keaton (Annie Hall). When together in such a touching and song-and-dance act. The pair and definitely a must-watch in the ly a romantic comedy, but ignore Mulroney’s character, Everett sensitive film about realities that soon meets another song-and- Stratton house. “Love Actually” the stigma that comes along with Stone, brings his girlfriend, Mer- we all face at one time or another. dance duo of sisters, Betty and has everything: –comedy, dra- that genre and take the movie as edith (Sarah Jessica Parker, Sex & “White Christmas” Judy Haynes (Rosemary Clooney ma, and an all-star cast. For you it stands--a well-written, even the City), home for the holidays, “White Christmas” is a fairly and Vera-Ellen, respectively) and “Harry Potter” series fans, this better acted, and heartwarm- high tensions and conflicts arise. new addition to my Christmas travels to a Vermont lodge for a movie has both Professor Snape ing story about one emotion Meredith cannot seem to find her film repertoire, but an excellent special Christmas performance. (the late Alan Rickman, Galaxy that we have all felt at one point place in the eccentric Stone family one nonetheless. This is one of the The entertainment is endless, Quest) AND Professor Trelawney in our lives in whatever con- dynamic and realizes she is a mis- authentic Christmas classics you not just the story, but the singing (Emma Thompson, Nanny text: love. You can now stream fit in their free-spirited way of life. think about when you’re driving and dancing performed by these McPhee). Those are just two nota- “Love Actually” on Netflix. The chemistry between all and listening to Christmas songs classic talents. Impress your par- ble actors from an ensemble that “The Family Stone” members of the cast make the on the radio. As your mind drifts, ents and grandparents and take a includes Liam Neeson (Taken), Another favorite of mine that I story so believable and relevant you think about the superstar ac- couple of hours to stream “White Keira Knightly (Pirates of the Ca- cannot go a holiday season with- to audiences as they prepare for tors/singers serenading you and Christmas” on Netflix before ribbean), Andrew Lincoln (The out, is “The Family Stone” (2005), big family holidays and all of the wonder where these holiday orig- heading home for the holidays. It is Walking Dead), Chiwetel Ejiofor another film with a dynamite cast. chaos that comes along with it– inal songs came from. The most a Christmas classic you must see!

Holiday Favorites, Courtesy of Netflix.com