E H Inside... T Opinion Artist Spotlight pg. 2 Sports Women’s Tennis pg. 4 oncordia Arts Handbell Fever pg. 5 Local/Global Haiti Trip pg. 6 Everything Eagles Sudoku pg. 7

ourierInvestigate. Inform. Ignite. Involve. Volume 6, Issue 10 Concordia University Irvine Tuesday, February 21, 2012 Phil Wickham headlines Night of Hope Wickham’s songs regularly. “I absolutely love Wick- ganization that makes a difference. Plus, nothing is ham’s song, ‘Divine Romance’ and I can’t believe better than good music and food. Keep an eye out, he is actually coming to Concordia,” said Amber this night always ends in a dance party,” Vu said. Arandas, sophomore. Wickham will conclude the Tickets go on sale Feb. 22 in the bookstore and the night with an hour-long acoustic set. cafeteria. Prices are $15 for the general public, and “Night of Hope is a chance for everyone to $10 for Concordia staff, students and children 14 come together as a community and support an or- and under.

Audrey Biesk nothing at full price,” Vu said. Staff WRiter All money raised at Night of Hope will be do- nated to FIKISHA, a non-profit organization that Concordia’s third annual Night of Hope will aids street boys in the slums of Nairobi, Kenya. A be held on Thurs., March 15. The program will group of Concordia students founded the organi- go from 5:30 p.m. until 9 p.m. Sam Bretzmann, zation after interacting with the boys on a summer ’10, and Mai Vu, junior, are both coordinating the mission trip in 2009. The money will go towards event. Both Bretzmann and Vu have helped plan training the mentors that work with the boys and the Night of Hope event for all three years of its to the various programming needs they participate tenure. A team of ten students from all classes is in. FIKISHA will have a booth for donations at the included on the planning committee as well. There event. There will be tickets for opportunity draw- are creative, marketing, booking and advertising ings, $10 tee-shirts, and a Bella Familia Wood-Fire teams for the Night of Hope. Ellie Hanson, junior, Pizza vendor. is also in her third year of planning and has taken The program of the event includes various stu- on the position of Creative Team Director. “We are dent performances, and Thea Gavin, Professor of stepping it up from previous years,” Hanson said. English, will be returning for an encore poetry per- “So if you enjoyed it last year, our goal is to make formance. The Slow Waltz, an up-and-coming lo- this year 25 times better.” cal band consisting of alumni Drew Williams and Night of Hope is sponsored, but not funded, Megan Atlakson, will also perform. by Concordia. The school offers the space for the The featured guest of the night is Phil Wick- event and it is supported solely through donations. ham, a contemporary Christian music artist and Phil Wickham will conclude the night with an hour-long acoustic set. Tickets can be purchased in the “Our motto is free first, discounts second, and songwriter. Shout and chapel services perform bookstore, cafeteria, and online via itickets.com on Feb. 22. See’s CEO to speak at In with the new…Blackboard Faith and Business Forum not much different after update

Sarina Grant Along with all of the new features, Blackboard Amanda Winslow Christensen said. The Faith and Business Forum Staff Writer will still maintain most of its old tools, including Staff Writer hosts a different speaker each year, and approxi- Safe Assign and the course content section. Many mately 500 individuals typically attend the event. On Thurs., Feb. 16, the Blackboard server was of these feutures are often underutilized by the stu- Bradley D. Kinstler, President and CEO of See’s Although the majority of guests that attend the upgraded to Service Pack 8, providing new helpful dent body. “I mainly just go on to check my grades,” Candies, Inc., will speak at Concordia’s ninth an- Faith and Business Forum are local businesspeople, tools for the campus community. The upgrade kept said Alicia Patton, sophomore. “I don’t really use a nual Faith and Business Forum at the Hilton Or- approximately 10 to 20 students attend each year. all of Blackboard’s old features, but added some lot of the other features.” ange County on March 8. “I’ve never heard of anything like it before and I new elements to help professors, administrators “I’m in two online classes, so we have to use the “What we do is we talk about the intersection of think it’s a neat idea,” said Nicole Zehnder, junior. and students alike. “Number one, the new system discussion boards at least once a week,” said Tara faith and business,” said Stephen Christensen, Ex- “I think it’s necessary to learn how to express your fixes bugs, which will relate to a more stable sys- Bletcher, freshman. “I didn’t know about it last ecutive Vice President for External Relations and faith in the workplace and it sounds like you can tem. So we’ll have less things going wrong, which semester, but since taking the online classes, I’m Special Assistant to the President. “[The forum] is definitely grow through this experience.” is always a blessing,” said John Randall, Direc- more aware of additional features.” Some of these designed to raise awareness that the workplace is According to Christensen, the forum is a faith- tor of the Center for Excellence in Learning and features include a built-in wiki, a discussion board, a place where we can have an impact for Christ,” based examination of business strategies. “It’s a Teaching. Some of the other new tools include a video lectures and group chat capabilities. “All of business discussion, so they talk primarily about revamped appearance for the Grade Book and a these features need to be turned on by the profes- how they market their company and how they more efficient compatibility with the Internet Ex- sor, so it just depends on how comfortable the pro- build teamwork in their organization, but most of plorer browser. fessor is with using those tools,” said Randall. the time the discussions end up focusing on how One of the most significant new features, de- The amount that professors use Blackboard they treat people,” he said. signed to aid the administration, is the ability to varies, depending on their individual teaching Christensen emphasized that one of the main collect more specific student data for school ac- style. “What holds me back from using more of goals of the Faith and Business Forum is to teach creditation in a manner that is easy and efficient. the features is the extra time it takes to initially set that the workplace facilitates an often-overlooked The upcoming Western Association of Schools it up. It’s not that easy to get in and out of, and I opportunity for ministry. “We encourage people and Colleges (WASC) accreditation is the biggest don’t find it very user friendly,” said Dr. John Nor- to recognize that you might work in a secular reason for incorporating the upgrade now, in the ton, Assistant Professor of English. “The strengths company, but that you are there because number middle of the school year as opposed to over the of Blackboard, however, are definitely the ease of one—the Lord wants you to be there, and number summer. posting documents and resources, and communi- two—because you’re His light,” he said. “You’re His “Prior to this release, it was cumbersome to cation with students.” ambassador in that workplace.” collect student artifacts for WASC accreditation,” To learn more about Blackboard and its fea- “If you want to share Christ in your workplace, Randall said. “The upgrade will make collecting tures, visit the Center for Excellence in Learning why don’t you work as Jesus would work and let data for evaluation much more efficient.” and Teaching. how you live be your sermon?” Christensen said. While ministering to others who do not know Christ can be difficult, Christensen points out that it is all about the power of suggestion. “A paradigm shift is a new way of thinking, and you can’t have a new way of thinking until someone has suggested a new way of thinking,” he said. “Once someone has suggested it to you, you begin to think about it.” For more information about the Faith and Business Forum, contact Christensen at stephen. Bradley D. Kinstler, See’s CEO [email protected]. Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into Him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love. Ephesians 4:15-16 2 Op i n i o n Fe b r u a r y 21, 2012 Artist Spotlight- Faculty Letter Edition by Thea Gavin, Professor of English Editorial:

Let me not to the marriage of true words The Greatest Prodigality

admit impediments. I really like Emily Geske pletely? Sure, it is undoubtedly easier, but college is parody and long iambic lines Everything Eagles Editor not supposed to cater to the “drive-thru” mental- ity that those American obsessions with ease and and hanging out in Nature with a pen I was standing in line in the cafeteria the other speed foster. or pencil and a notebook. (Did you hear day, and I overheard a conversation between two The second possible scenario is that the profes- people waiting behind me. One part caught my at- sor of that class had the same lackadaisical attitude, about my time at the Grand Canyon just last year?) tention, and it went something like, “Oh, you’re in not wanting to push students too hard or demand that class right now? I hated it. It was such a waste too much. In situations like these, students have a of time.” That statement not only frustrated me, legitimate right to complain because their time is Of course you did: I’m not one to eschew but it got me thinking about the entire concept of being wasted without their permission. Professors publicity. That’s why I’m rambling on wasting time and how commonplace it has become who present content at a surface level are doing a in our society. huge disservice to their pupils, even if they think in this column. Zach said to write some stuff Benjamin Franklin is quoted as having said, the easier course load is a generous favor. Mindless about my work, but I got writer’s block “If time be of all things the most precious, wasting busy work is not only a poor excuse for a lesson time must be the greatest prodigality.” plan, but it fails to encourage any critical thinking confronting my poetic origin— It’s a shame that few of us seem to think that other than a discovery of the inadequacy of the way these days, especially when we could be material. spending our seconds on a multitude of construc- Both proposed situations are ridiculous, unac- which might have happened in a Krueger class: tive activities. An entitled attitude of demanding to ceptable and unfortunately present on Concordia’s assignment, “Write a parody.” I did. be entertained has transformed the average mind campus. The classrooms are filled with students from curious to careless, inquisitive to iniquitous. just interested in getting a framed piece of paper Poe rolled over in his grave. I got an A. The question that drives behavior is no longer, and professors who are unconcerned with the con- (And eventually an MFA in poetry.) “Why does it work this way?” but rather, “Why tent written on the pieces of paper they receive. On should I care?” the other hand, these same walkways also contain Now don’t get me wrong—I am by no means those at the opposite end of the spectrum. I’ve en- against relaxing, having fun, or amusement of any countered lots of peers who ask thought-provoking Then . . . volunteer work as a hiking docent. sort. I look forward to those days where I don’t have questions for no other end than furthering their (Think: museum guide to the OC outdoors.) to think about or work on anything consequential. own knowledge. A plethora of professors on this But when setting a record number of “likes” on campus are truly invested in their students’ edu- Trail running. Running injury. your Facebook status consumes a sizeable chunk cations, going beyond average requirements of the Barefoot running. Running is/as poetry. of your time and effort, you need to rethink your job. Both groups understand what it is to be pro- priorities. ductive with time and how rude it is to waste that Chariots of Fire, appropriated: Back to the original scene that sparked this of others. “I believe God made me for a purpose, train of thought—the way I see it, one of two pos- With movies out nowadays like “In Time,” sibilities exists to explain this statement. The first where chunks of one’s lifespan are used for cur- but he also made me slow. is that the student did not pay attention or even rency, you would think that making the most of Still, when I write or run I feel His pleasure.” remotely attempt to connect with the content of every moment would be a high priority. Maybe the course. It amazes me that people are content the wisdom of temporal frugality is something to pay for a course, but not gain as much as they that more will come to learn with experience. In Thusly inspired by psalms possibly can from it. Every session is an opportu- the meantime, what you do with your time is your nity to learn something new, whether it is a fact, a own business, but when squandering it starts to af- by native plants and places fresh perspective, the moral from some anecdote, fect other more conscientious people, it’s best to err I write to preserve the smell of sage or even an example of how not to act through ob- on the side of respect. If you want to do yourself a serving others. It is irrational to choose boredom favor, try being more aware of how you spend your the squish of summer dust between my toes over active participation, yet how many times time on a daily basis—what you find might just the tang of lemonade berry on the trail have you noticed your neighbors tuning out com- surprise you. a glimpse of a limping fawn in the surreal pink light of sunset in Orange County’s wild hills our wild heritage our bio-fabulous chaparral— how can I encourage others to make their own pebble-indelible trail memories?

Rejection, publication, public proclamation: other writing roads I’ve stumbled down. If the Lord wills, may tomorrow bring a purple dawn and more strange trails to sing.

(PS I’m looking forward to reading— cow costume or not— some of my work at Night of Hope in the CUI Amphitheater on March 15.)

E H 1530 Concordia West, Irvine CA, 92612 T Lambda Lounge [email protected] oncordia cui.edu/studentlife/student-newspaper Place a ourier classified ad!

Stephen Puls, Editor-in-Chief Writers Alicia Harger, Layout Editor Ashlie Siefkes, Faculty Adviser Audrey Biesk, Sarina Grant, Brianna Lamanna, Daetona Laurence, Danielle Zach Borst, Arts/Reviews Editor Faculty Advisory Board • Selling a book? Dr. Ken Ebel Lee, Michelle Lopez, Laura Lundberg, Campus Life/ Elyssa Sullivan, Campus Life/ Dr. Korey Maas Erik Olsen, Ethan Scherch, Jenna Siets, Local & Global Interests Editor Local & Global Interests Editor Professor Lori Siekmann Tatiana Toscano, Jamie Vaughan, Sally Emily Geske, Sports/ Professor Adam Lee Warren, Joshua Young • Need a job? Everything Eagles Editor Dr. Daniel van Voorhis Primary funding provided by Publishing by Anchor Printing the Office of the Provost anchorprintingoc.com • Have a cool idea? Letters to the Editor must be typed and The opinions expressed in include the author’s full name The Concordia Courier are those Comments? Suggestions? and telephone number. of the contributors and do not We want to hear from you. Letters that are printed may be necessarily reflect the views of the Email newspaper@cui. Write a “Letter to the Editor.” edited for space and content. administration, faculty, staff or edu to have an ad placed [email protected] Letters to the Editor do not student body of Concordia University. necessarily reflect the views of Editorials reflect the views of the in the next issue. The Concordia Courier. majority of the editorial staff. Fe b r u a r y 21, 2012 Ca m p u s Li f e 3 Academic Showcase returns A Money Revolution

Meghan Jones mum and a poster featuring their project. The Tier The 2012 Academic Showcase has 25 students Allison Bowman Staff Writer One top five finalists will be presenting a 15-min- in Tier One, and eight students in Tier Two. Both Staff Writer ute speech in which they tell faculty judges about tiers have increased in the number of students par- The President’s Academic Showcase has ar- their research. ticipating since 2011. The competing students for The School of Business is currently searching rived once again for students to share knowledge in Dr. Roberto Flores de Apodaca, Professor of this year’s showcase will be displaying their posters for two student leaders for its Money Revolution a particular topic within their major. Students have Psychology, is mentoring three psychology students from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. in the Gym Walkway program. The program is aimed at informing the been working with professors for months, perfect- with a project featuring brain behavior. “Each stu- on April 3. The top finalists will have their presen- student body about personal finance. Money Rev- ing an intense undergraduate research project that dent writes sections of the paper and each student tations displayed between 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. olution, formerly known as College Money Mat- wil lbe presented to the Concordia community. The does their own research on their sections of the in the DeNaultAuditorium on April 11. The win- ters, is driven by student leaders and is sponsored Tier One Academic Showcase will feature Junior topic,” said Flores. “Roughly 15 drafts of the paper ners will be announced after Common Ground by Thrivent Financial for Lutherans. Thrivent is a and Senior projects, while the Tier Two Academic will be done before it is ready to be submitted.” Chapel in the CU Center on April 13. Fortune 500, faith-based, not-for-profit organiza- Showcase will feature freshmen and sophomore tion. students. The prizes will range from $400 - $1,500 Money Revolution has held several sessions for Tier One and $100 - $400 for Tier Two; both throughout the year, including lessons about basic tiers have increased the award amount since the budgeting, credit cards and spending plans. Ses- 2011 showcase. sions can vary from guest speaker discussions to “The Academic Showcase is a stepping stone for interactive games. George Wright, Assistant Dean graduate school,” said Dr. Melinda Schulteis, Aca- for the School of Business, referred to free food as demic Showcase Coordinator. “Because we have a an additional draw to the events. Within the next small campus, this gives students a chance to meet month, a new session will be held covering retire- one-on-one to research with a faculty member.” ment investing. Students in any major can participate with a faculty Money Revolution is currently being coordi- member who serves as their mentor. The 2011 Tier nated by Richard Hall, junior. Hall is looking for One Academic Showcase was won by a senior, Joel two students who are career-oriented, driven to Landis, with a project titled,“Is China a Revision- help and looking to gain business experience. “This ist State? Examining China’s Military Rise Through is an opportunity to build a résumé, network and Power Transition Theory.” learn management skills,” Hall said. The selected Joshua Young, junior, is one of the 25 students students will be provided a trip to Thrivent Head- participating in the Tier One competition. He has quarters in Wisconsin for a week of training. been researching his topic of “Regular Market “It is important to learn about personal financ- Crashes” since November 2011.“There have been es in college because it is a time of transition,” said regular market crashes in 1987, 1997, and 2007,” Martha James, junior. According to the Federal Re- said Young. “I am trying to find a universal cause to serve, there is more than $2.4 trillion of consumer these crashes.” Young took interest in the academic debt in America. Money Revolution informs stu- showcase and said, “It is a great way to spend my dents to provide a more realistic understanding of time and energy.” how money issues work. “It is our hope that it helps If the participating students display research establish the right foundation in a student’s life, so that is above and beyond a classroom’s education, Joel Landis, ‘11, poses with his winning showcase project. that the students are equipped to begin making they may receive one unit of credit. Tier One and wise financial decisions as soon as possible,” said Two will be writing a paper with a 25-page maxi- Robert Meaux, financial consultant for Thrivent. Money Revolution was brought to campus in the summer of 2010, and Concordia is one of 11 schools participating. The success of the program is measured by impacts—the amount of awareness it Terrance Baxter: Campus Safety’s ‘jack of all trades’ creates across campus. The goal for the 11 schools is to have 15,000 impacts. Concordia is ranked 4th Brianna Lamanna “The Burbs,” and “Titanic.” He was also featured in hours sitting around on a set and waiting for them in contributing impacts. Hall stated that one of the Staff Writer the television series “Star Trek Voyager.” During his to set up everything to shoot just a few moments, most challenging aspects of spreading awareness is work in the industry, he met and interacted with but you have to be ready to go when called and to reaching the whole student body, and not just the Terrance Baxter, a traffic control officer on many stars. give the best that you can.” Business Department. campus often recognized by his aviator sunglasses, Baxter’s favorite production to work on was While working at Concordia, Baxter contin- Money Revolution provides a basic, useful has worked at Concordia for a little over 10 years. “Titanic.” In this film, he played first class passen- ues to entertain those who work with him. “The knowledge that is relevant across all departments Baxter was born in Whittier, California, in 1938. ger and British financier Sir Edward Taylor. While first time I met Terrance at work, he put on a Ger- of campus. It helps individuals make educated de- His two siblings consist of a brother and a sister. he can be seen in many scenes as a background man accent and asked if I needed any help from cisions, rather than decisions by default. Baxter has lived in Southern California his en- actor, he is most noticeable in one of the dining the Gestapo,” said Jessica Bass, junior. “This is his tire life, residing in both Orange and Los Angeles scenes when walking with his movie wife. During way of making our jobs a little more light-hearted counties. the production, he resided near Rosarito, Mexico, in light of the seriousness that we deal with day-in Before taking a position at Concordia, Baxter where filming took place. Baxter describes that and day-out.” worked in a wide arrayof vocations. When he was time with nostalgia.“It was quite an experience. I Baxter has a couple of hobbies outside of his Let’s Talk in RHO younger, he trained as an artist at the Long Beach enjoyed it,” he said. work at Concordia. He is interested in antiques, Jenna Siets Academy of Art. He painted and was represented Baxter learned many lessons while working in and he has been a part of a western re-enactment Staff Writer in a couple of galleries. the movie industry, and stated that the most im- group for about 12 years. This group travels around His interests in art eventually spurred an inter- portant lesson is similar to the cliché to‘hurry up Southern California and acts out scenes from the The Counseling Center has launched an ongo- est in the movie industry. Baxter was featured in and wait.’ “You have to learn patience, but you al- Wild West. His Hollywood flair is genuinely en- ing program called Let’s Talk. Every Thursday, any several notable films including “The Lady Killers,” ways have to be ready,” said Baxter. “You may spend joyed by individuals throughout the community. student may drop by room 149 in the RPC between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. to receive a free counseling ses- sion. The event is held right by the office of First Year Experience. The session is 30 minutes long, and allows students to get a sense of the benefits that counseling can bring. Several students that have gone have found the event to be beneficial. One sophomore said, “I walked out thinking in a different way.” Another student expressed great relief after coming out of the session. “I was nervous in the beginning, but by the end of the session I was grateful that I came in,” she said. Christen Verna, Marriage and Family Thera- pist, is holding the event along with the Concordia counseling staff. When going into a session, Verna wants to get at the root of the issue. She empha- sized that counseling can help a student academi- cally, spiritually, socially and personally. “If you have any kind of turmoil in your life, do not hesi- tate to come in,” Verna said. The counselors are here to help the students. The one thing that Verna likes about this event is that it is less intimidating because students do not have to make an appointment. “A student can just come on by if they are having a bad day,” she said. The program has only been going on for three weeks, with each week yielding an increased stu- dent turnout. A commuter student heard about this event from a friend and was excited to try it out. “All of the counselors are great, I totally en- courage everyone to at least try counseling once,” she said. “I never knew we had counselors, what a pleasant surprise it was.” Regular counseling sessions are one hour and are held in the Wellness Center. Scheduling an ap- Terrance Baxter, Campus Safety Officer pointment is recommended. The staff believes that counseling is very helpful to students and encour- ages anyone to come in and talk. 4 Sp o r t s Fe b r u a r y 21, 2012 Women’s Tennis enjoys early success SportsLine Jaymie Rodems should be a pretty exciting match,” Sanchez said. Home games are held at the Costa Mesa Tennis Staff Writer “In our current pre-season rankings, FPU is the Center. “It makes such a difference to have people only GSAC team who is ranked ahead of us, so it out there cheering for you,” Radke said. “Also, as The women’s tennis season is now in full swing, will be a great opportunity for us to move up in an opponent, it can be very tough to compete not as the squad debuted with a win against Cal State the rankings.” The team is excited for every match only against your opponent, but also against the Stephen Puls Los Angeles on Feb 1. They continued their suc- because it is striving towards its goal of playing its people watching.” Editor-in-Chief cess with a 9-0 sweep of Hope International last best against top GSAC teams on its way to Nation- The team has a Facebook page for supporters Tuesday. als for the 4th consecutive year. “For four of us, it’s that they update as much as possible. The Eagles Jonathan Sanchez, Head Coach of Tennis, has our fourth and final year of college tennis, and we next home game is Feb. 28 at 2 p.m. against Biola been satisfied with his team’s performance thus far. want to make every match count,” Kimura said. University. “Getting the win against CSULA was a great con- fidence builder for the team,” he said. The Eagles Linsanity: won the match 6-3. “Beating a big school like CSU- The Method to the Madness LA was great for our motivation for the season,” said Bettina Radke, senior. Jeremy Lin’s unpropheciable run to NBA This year’s varsity roster consists of five experi- stardom has made him the most polarizing enced upper classmen, along with new arrivals Ellie sports figure since, well, Tim Tebow. In fact, Johnson and Ulrike Hahn, freshmen. Sanchez was these two sweetheart stories actually have enthusiastic about the two new freshmen. “They quite a bit in common, as both athletes are bring positive energy that lifts the whole team’s confessing Christians. While Lin’s faith has spirits not only in practice, but also in matches,” not established anything close to the media he said. “They are also very skilled and will be im- addiction that Tebow’s outward profession portant assets to the team this season.” The team created, the ascension of another Christian expressed that having so many experienced players superstar (if such a term actually exists) has in the mix gives them a competitive edge. conducted further discussion amongst those The team has grown dedicated to each other, as beloved pundits. well as to coaches Sanchez and Jeff Das. “We were Columnist David Brooks recently wrote definitely working hard during the fall semester, a piece titled “The Jeremy Lin Problem,” so it’s going to be fun watching all the hard work published on Feb. 16 in the New York Times. pay off,” said Kristen Yep, senior. This year, Jordan His discusses what he sees as “the biggest Kimura and Radke, seniors, are in the number one anomaly”—people of faith in professional doubles spot for the squad. They began the year sports. According to Brooks, “the moral ranked sixth in the nation and both are two-time ethos of sport is in tension with the moral NAIA All-Americans. ethos of faith.” They cannot coexist. An ath- While the team is united regarding the impor- lete strives to be intimidating and theatrical, tance of playing every match well, they are particu- working to promote the ascension of both larly eager to meet up this April with Fresno Pacific himself and his team. Conversely (at least University, the team ranked first in the GSAC and in Brooks’ eyes), the Christian ethos is cen- The 2012 squad poses for a group shot after their 6-3 win over CSULA. second in the NAIA. “Fresno Pacific University tered in humility, redemption, and death to self. Both paradigms are at odds with each other, and an athlete caught between the two faces some serious tradeoffs. Sophomore tandem Lin has previously touched on this de- bate himself, speaking to the challenge of Dual wield: Downs poses setting both personal and team success aside heads Athletes in in an effort to glorify God. He has outwardly threat with curveball and jumpshot stated that he does not obsess over pleasing Action community others or striving to win a championship. In- stead, his audience is God, and the right way to play is to play for Him—whatever that Tatiana Toscano and his teammates spend their free time watching Jacalyn Barens requires. In a 2010 interview with Patheos Staff WRiter movies and playing Mario Kart on Nintendo 64. Staff WRiter (A Christian Magazine), Lin acknowledged The basketball team, comprised of mostly trans- this to be an ongoing struggle as he learns Dakota Downs, junior, is excelling on Concor- fers, has managed to build chemistry and keep its Athletes in Action (AIA) is a student-coordi- what it means to submit himself to God on dia’s basketball court as well as its baseball field. season successful. “He’s one of the hardest working nated club that helps bring both athletes and non- the hardwood. Brooks’ believes it to be a Transferring from Mt. San Jacinto College, he people I’ve ever met,” Harris said, “Regardless of athletes together for weekly Bible study and discus- struggle with no solution. manages to maintain a positive attitude about his if Dakota is playing sports or not, he’ll be success- sion. Lin’s mindset brings humility to a divine workload both on and off the field. A dual athlete f u l .” AIA began to hold meetings last fall and is con- level—beyond the earthly standards set forth in baseball and basketball is a rarity, especially to At home, Downs’ family always stands firmly tinuing to grow. Jim Brewer, Head Coach of Track by the John Stockton’s of the world. Con- his two coaches, Ken Ammann, Head Basketball behind him. They attend all the games that they and Field, and Jennifer Simons, senior, wanted to trary to Brooks’ beliefs, the doctrine of vo- Coach, and Mike Grahovac, Head Baseball Coach. can. “I was raised around sports,” Downs said. “My start a Bible study for athletes that would bring stu- cation does allow for reconciliation between “I don’t remember having an athlete who played grandpa’s advice to me was to ‘hit the bull’—to dents together and give them a foundation to grow faith and sport. It solves the problem of how both sports, let alone who played them well,” Am- basically throw as hard as I can—so I did.” With their faith. In response to this, they spoke with Gus Christians are to live in the world, bringing mann said. a strong support system, Downs has managed to Hermes, University of California Irvine Athletes divine significance to almost any occupation. Downs’ decision to attend Concordia weighed keep growing. “We had high hopes he would be as in Action director. “They then contacted me and While the primary calling of any believer is largely on his ability to play both sports. Originally good as we saw during recruiting, but he surpassed I helped them get the ball rolling on what is now to proclaim the love of Christ, God stations recruited for solely basketball, Ammann requested those expectations,” Ammann said. AIA,” Hermes said. his children in worldly positions—Paul was that Grahovac take a look at Downs’ pitching on Downs will suit up for the men’s basketball Since its launch last semester, President Mack- a tentmaker, Peter fished, and Jesus worked the field. “I went to one of his games, and I liked team in their game tonight against Point Loma at enzie Beveridge and Vice President Leah Jaeger, in carpentry. Just as a businessman works to what I saw,” Grahovac said. “He’s a strong kid with 7:30 p.m. in the CU Arena. sophomores, have taken ownership of this club. share the love of Christ while still trying to a strong arm.” According to Grahovac, playing for- The tandem stated that their job is to get people to operate in the black, Lin can legitimately be ward in the fall and transitioning to pitcher for the come to the meetings and to organize activities. called by God to be an NBA superstar. spring is not going to be extremely difficult, but it The club meets every Wednesday night at 7:30 Furthermore, Lin has the opportunity will be a bit of a challenge. Despite still being in p.m. in the Eagles Nest. Meetings are typically one to replace the typical athletic swagger with season with basketball, Downs has already begun hour long, and there is normally a game in the be- a heavenly pride. Instead of celebrating his attending practice with the baseball team. ginning and a Bible study or guest speaker for the personal accomplishments, an athlete of The additional practices do not seem to affect last 45 minutes. Hermes said that his main goal for faith can continually boast in Christ as a re- Downs. He has been involved in sports since little the Bible study is to give athletes and non-athletes a deemed sinner (Gal. 6:14). league in his hometown of Hemit, CA, and has foundation for their faith while encouraging mem- Lin takes the discussion one step further, learned how to manage his time. “It isn’t anything bers to be more comfortable discussing their rela- using his Harvard-grad articulation to tes- new. You just have to have fun with everything you tionship with God to others. tify towards how his basketball career has do,” he said. Downs decided to go to junior college AIA is not only a campus club, but also a contributed to personal humility. He refer- after high school in the hopes that he would have worldwide organization. AIA uses sports to go into ences times in which he has been in awe of more options to choose from when transferring to countries that missionaries would not be allowed his personal performance, to the point that a four-year university. into otherwise. They bring sports and activities to the only explanation is a supernatural one. Ammann stated that Downs was the most re- cities and spread the gospel to people who would In light of all of his success, including a state cruited player on the team. He displayed a high not normally get the opportunity to hear the Word championship in high school, Lin states that work ethic, toughness on the court, and overall of God. This upcoming summer, AIA is taking there is still more to be desired—speaking good character. “He is one of the most inspiring over 50 mission trips to 50 different countries in towards the unfulfillment involved with people on the team. It’s the things you can’t teach hope of spreading God’s word through athletics. chasing after worldly, materialistic goals. him that make him special,” Ammann said. “It is Anyone who is involved in this club is welcome to All things said, the logic behind the ex- a combination of skill and character that set him participate. For more information about summer istence of a Christian superstar is a bit “Lin- apart, and his teammates agree.” mission trips, visit the AIA website. sane,” and that is exactly how it should be. Downs is new to both teams, but his coaches Beveridge and Jaeger want to emphasize that agree that he has had an easy time fitting in. Even non-athletes are also welcome to participate in the though the baseball season has just begun, Graho- club and to come to meetings. “Just because the vac was not hesitant to say that Downs already has title has the word ‘athletes’ does not mean this club a big presence among his teammates and will help is exclusively for athletes,” said Jaeger. Corey Kelso, the team a lot. Basketball teammate Tim Harris, sophomore, said, “When I heard this club was not junior, spoke highly of Downs. “He’s one of my fa- just for athletes, I was excited. I have friends who vorite people to play with. He always has a plan and are athletes, so it is nice to know I am welcome and has never not given 100 percent,” Harris said. able to participate in the club if I want.” Off the court, Downs’ relationship with his For more information on AIA, contact Bever- teammates remains the same. When Downs is not Dakota Downs, junior idge or go to the Concordia Atheletes in Action at practice or studying for his biology classes, he Facebook page. Fe b r u a r y 21, 2012 Ar t s 5 Theatre returns from Utah Competition spreads Ethan Scherch scholarship. Staff Writer This competition is vital to the growth of the Concordia theater department. The opportuni- On Feb. 6, 16 members of Concordia’s theater ties provided to students are numerous. “My role handbell fever at CUI department traveled to Weber State University in at ACTF was a performer/learner,” said Katie Fog- Utah to perform “The Cover of Life” at the Ameri- giano, freshman. “I say learner because there were can College Theater Festival (ACTF). This team nonstop workshops and shows to go to for free. It Michelle Lopez certs. Victoria Van Horn, junior, emphasized that consisted of the play’s actors, crew members, and was great to learn all these things from design as- STaff Writer she enjoyed the unique aspects involved with the director. They performed “The Cover of Life” to pects to music, to play writing—there was so much “Pocahontas” piece. “It was a lot slower and musi- multiple audiences. Each performance was an to do.” On Feb. 11, Concordia hosted its 20th Annual cal, which was awesome because we get to change open invitation to anyone who wanted to watch, The festival also included a 10-minute playwrit- Handbell Invitational in the CU Center. A variety from bells to chimes,” she said. This performance and all were evaluated by a national judging panel. ing contest. Nick Scutti, sophomore, entered the of groups were invited to perform including The included a variety of instruments other than hand- The best plays were selected to continue on to a competition. His selection was one of six chosen Masters College, Mater Dei High School, Valley bells. Marissa Carnahan, sophomore, played the national competition in Washington DC. for ACTF. At the beginning of the week, a group of Christian High School, and Will C. Wood High oboe and Michael Miller, sophomore, played the At ACTF, students have an opportunity to actors was recruited to rehearse his play and per- School. Dr. Herb Geisler, Director of Handbells, clarinet for the performance. stand out as individuals, while also participating in form it at the end of the week. and Nancy Jessup, Associate Director of Hand- Will C. Wood High School displayed a particu- a partner competition. Some Concordia students The festival not only provided our actors with bells, conducted the Concert Bells and Spirit Bells larly amazing performance. Bongo drums show- were nominated for their performances in Con- experience, but it proved that our theater depart- respectively. Cyndi Tully conducted Concordia’s cased interesting talent, while one student played cordia productions by faculty members from other ment can stand with the best. “We had a young Alumni Handbell Ensemble. wine glasses filled with water. The audience was schools. Each nominee picks a partner and a scene, team, some of whom were attending the festival for Performing with handbells requires each per- left in awe. This was an exciting event for all, es- and the duo must perform it to the best of their the first time,” Siekmann said. “Our students rep- former to work with two bells while switching one pecially for those who had never attended or per- ability. “Hundreds of pairs enter the preliminary resented us very well. This experience bodes well with another bell on the table. The more experi- formed in an invitational before. “I’ve never been round, and only 47 pairs make it to the semi-final for future festivals.” enced performers use a technique known as “four involved in something like this,” said Samantha round. Then 16 pairs make it to finals,” said Profes- The theater department is currently putting to- in hand,” in which two bells are rung at differ- Root, freshman. “I found it to be interesting, and sor Lori Siekmann, Director of “The Cover of Life.” gether a musical entitled “The Fantasticks,” which ent angles in a single hand. Each bell has its own I liked how the other schools brought something The winner is awarded the prestigious Irene Ryan will debut later this spring. unique pitch. The sound of the bell depends on the different—they were really good.” method used. One method is known as “mart lifts,” The mass ring was a great collaboration at the which requires the performer to hit the bell on the end of the performance in which all the groups table and lift it up after.“Handbells are enjoyable,” gathered together to perform one piece. “Since the said Kristina Deusch, sophomore. “The thing I handbell world is pretty small, it’s good to see a lot Choir to perform in love is exposing people to this new instrument and of people who share the same passion,” said Ste- techniques. I love performing as a group.” fanie Hinrichs, junior. The mass ring was directed A diverse selection of musical pieces were per- by Geisler and featured trumpeter Ben Hunter, formed at the invitational. The most familiar song sophomore, and organist, Jenny Lee. This concert was “Colors of the Wind” from the Disney movie, was just the first of a handbell concert series. There Arizona and Nevada “Pocahontas.” will be another invitational coming March 24 at 5 Each year, as a tradition, Jessup chooses one p.m. in the CU Center of Worship and Performing Alison Martin The choir has been practicing since the fall semes- Disney piece to feature in the Spirit Bells con- Arts. Be on the lookout for more information. Staff Writer ter. Annual performances include the Christmas Concert, the Fall Festival of Hymns and a Master The Concordia Choir has announced the details Works Concert series with a professional orches- of its Pacific Southwest Tour for 2012. Their songs tra. will include sacred choral music ranging from ca- Their concert tours have included trips to thedral classics to modern gospels and spirituals. the countries of Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Under the direction of Dr. Michael Busch, Concor- Italy, Japan, South Korea, Czech Republic, Slovak dia Choir Director, this concert ministry tour will Republic, Poland and Hungary. The Choir was be featured Feb. 25-28. featured at the Cathedral of St. Peter’s Basilica in The choir’s repertoire will feature notable selec- Rome and St. Mark’s Cathedral in Venice. In May, tions including J.S. Bach’s “Magnificat,” Carl F. Mu- the Choir will participate in concerts throughout eller’s “A Mighty Fortress is our God” and Mozart’s Germany in preparation for the 500th anniversary “Requiem.” The Concordia Choir will end each of the Reformation. concert with the hymn “Thou Shalt Know Him” by This ensemble is comprised of students major- Mark Sirett. Busch emphasized that he considers it ing in nearly all fields. Robyn Cornish, junior, has a blessing to end with this hymn. There will also be performed in the Concordia Choir for two years an exciting African arrangement of “Babethandaza” and loves everything involved with it. “The Con- by Daniel Hughes included in the tour program. cordia Choir rehearses about five hours per week, The Concordia Choir has maintained a tra- plus the time we spend going over our parts on our dition of performing excellence throughout the own,” Cornish said, “It’s a big commitment, but it’s United States and abroad. They perform during totally worth it.” the school year at the Concordia Center of Wor- A complete list of Concordia Choir events can ship and Performing Arts. be found on the Music department’s Music Perfor- “We share our faith through music,” said Busch. mance Calendar at cui.edu.

Choir Tour Itinerary

-Feb. 25 at Christ’s Greenfield Lutheran Church, Choir Ensembles’ Night for Gilbert, AZ 7:00p.m. Valentine’s woos audience -Feb. 26 at Christ’s Greenfield Lutheran Church,

Gilbert, AZ (Morning Services) Alicia Harger and Chris Peterson, junior, on guitar. Assistant Editor One of the most notable performances of the -Feb. 26 at Christ Lutheran Church, Phoenix, night involved the duet of “At Last I see the Light” A Night for Valentine’s, a love-themed choir from “Tangled,” sung by Alexandra Coultrup and AZ 3:30p.m. concert put on by Men’s and Women’s Ensemble, Taylor Fuller, freshmen. Natalie Innecken, fre- impressed its crowds on Feb. 17 and 18. The con- shamn, sang “Del Cabella Mas Sutil,” a beautiful -Feb. 27 at Trinity Lutheran Church, Litchfield, cert featured the full choirs as well as numerous Spanish love song, which stood out through the solo performances. The program was directed by foreign language. Another memorable moment AZ 7:00p.m. Dr. Marin Jacobson, the regular director for both was the Women’s Ensemble’s rendition of “Sisters,” groups. Friday night’s performance was a sold out everyone in the audience could feel the energy -Feb. 28 at Faith Community Lutheran Church, event, with standing room only. Once the singing from the group. began, it wasn’t hard to hear why the event was so “My favorite part of this performance was hear- popular, every singer seemed to have a voice of ing everyone’s choice of love songs, some of the lyr- Las Vegas, NV 7:00p.m. gold. ics were really so beautiful,” Coultrop said. All of The music selection ranged from traditional the solo performers were allowed to chose thier “Danny Boy,” to “Ours” by Taylor Swift and every own piece for this concert. This was evident in the era and genre in between. After several songs from performers enthusiasm for the songs. The tour will culminate at Concordia University Women’s Ensemble, Jason O’Brien, freshman, The final performance was a song featuring opened the solos with a very playful “I’ve Got You both the Women’s and Men’s Ensemble, which Irvine on Fri. March 9, at 7:00p.m. Under my Skin.” achieved thunderous applause from the audience. The concert also featured several student in- If you missed this chance to see choir in action, strumentalists: Jackie Hirzel, freshman, on trom- there are plenty more opportunities later this se- bone, Marissa Carnahan, sophomore, on oboe, mester. 6 Lo c a l & Gl o b a l In t e r e s t s Fe b r u a r y 21, 2012 Freshmen prep for Haiti Abbeywest joins CCM team Danielle Lee Jeffers and Ellen Johnson, all freshmen, regard the Staff Writer mission work as one of their main reasons for go- Lindsay Walsh be a blessing to those in this city,” Berndt said. ing. Ever since the earthquake on Jan. 12, 2010, Ab- Staff WRiter Concordia students arrived the morning of On May 21-31, five students and Dr. David erg has been interested in going to Haiti. Johnson Feb. 11, most of whom were identifiable by their Burgdorf, Director of Off-Campus MA Program, is also anticipating the trip.“There’s a lot of need On the second Saturday of each month, Con- bright green shirts, and led a group of children in will travel to Haiti to participate in mission work. there,” she said. Abel and Douglas feel that besides cordia students work with Christ Costa Mesa Lu- call-and-answer songs on the CCM school field. While in Haiti, Burgdorf and the students will team their interest in Haiti, this was something that God theran Church (CCM) to provide food to nearly While setting up an art area during her third up with S.T. Williams, Pastor of St. Paul Evangelical wanted them to do. “I felt Haiti really calling to me, 200 low-income, local families. Sponsored by Ab- volunteer effort with the food distribution, Jac- Lutheran Church of Los Angeles, and other mem- and God calling to me,” Douglas said. beywest Local Ministries, Concordia students and queline Turner, junior, accommodated many ea- bers of the church. As a group, they will be visiting Last summer, Chyna Johnson, junior, went on rotating sports teams volunteer at CCM Church ger children asking for paper and markers. “The numerous locations in Haiti, building homes and the Haiti trip and learned many things while help- and School, helping to set up the food distribution first time I came, I talked with a really little girl churches while also coordinating a Vacation Bible ing people. Johnson was able to observe just how area, check-in families and play with children. while she colored,” Turner said. “She told me she School. fortunate many of us in America are. “You don’t Those in need arrive in the early morning, was six years old and that she had walked over to Before leaving for Haiti, the students will hold realize how much you don’t need to have,” said before set up begins, to take a number indicating the church all by herself to come color and play. I regular team meetings to help prepare them for Johnson. By the end of the trip she had formed when they will receive their allotment of food. At was shocked that such a young child had come all the trip. “They will get cultural awareness and be many new relationships and has been able to re- 11 a.m., students and CCM volunteers then set up alone.” prepped on how to lead a Vacation Bible School,” main in contact with one friend via Facebook. “The tables to sort the fresh produce and pantry items According to CCM’s website, the need for ad- said Pastor Quinton Anderson, Campus Pastor. In language barrier isn’t really an issue. You make it into bags. The completed packages are then dis- vanced preparation is needed as more and more addition, the students will be learning basic phrases work,” she said. tributed to ticket-holders in need. neighbors come for assistance. Volunteering stu- of Creole—the official language of Haiti. Burgdorf The deadline for applications has closed, but if In alignment with the food distribution activi- dents are asked to meet in the student parking lot emphasized that any student planning on partici- any student wishes to go on the trip they may still ties, children are entertained with songs, cheers and (known as “Egypt”) at 10:30 a.m. to carpool or to pating in the Haiti trip should prepare themself by apply by contacting Pastor Anderson. The trip costs tables full of art supplies. At noon, CCM pastors meet at CCM at 11 a.m. on the second Saturday having an appropriate mindset for what they are $3000 with a $200 down payment with your appli- begin a bilingual Bible study. “We provide 170-200 of each month. The next distribution date will be going to be doing. While the trip will offer a wide cation. While $3000 is a significant amount of mon- families with food here every month—and of those March10. array of new experiences for the students, their ey, the school and church can assist in fundraising families, I would say at least 25% participate in For additional information on how you can main focus will be to participate in mission work. and writing letters to ask for help. “You shouldn’t let our Bible class,” said Teo Berndt, CCM pastor and reach out to those in need and participate in this The five students going on the Haiti trip, Jes- money determine your trip because you definitely Head of Hispanic Ministries. “Concordia is always community outreach food distribution, contact- sica Abel, Kathryn Aberg, Alisha Douglas, Austin get your money’s worth,” Johnson said. sending students to help with this project so we can Mai Vu at [email protected].

Concordia students assist in food distribution at Christ Lutheran Costa Mesa. Members of the 2011 Haiti team gather for a group photo. Where does your professor worship?

Sally Jean Warren Schramm also incorporates prayer at the begin- Middendorf is a pastoral assistant at Trinity Cristo lish, attends St. John’s Lutheran Church in Orange. Staff Writer ning of each of his classes because he believes it is Rey and has the opportunity to preach once or This is an older church and contains an elaborate important to thank the Lord for our blessings. twice a month. He also teaches an English Bible collection of stained-glass windows in in its sanc- Several professors worship alongside their stu- Schramm pointed out many ways the congre- study class once a week. Middendorf enjoys Con- tuary. “One of the reasons I enjoy going here is dents in churches throughout the Orange County gation of Faith Lutheran Church and Concordia cordia worship life as he appreciates the variety of because of the variety of music,” Schmidt said. area. There is a significant selection of Lutheran intersect. “Members come to campus for many worship formats that are offered through Chapel, Several other members of the Concordia faculty churches locally, and faculty members are not cen- events,” said Schramm. He also stated that Faith Shout, and Sunday Source. also attend St. John’s. tralized to a single location. Some professors at- Lutheran is a small church, but is continuing to Alexandra Wilson, senior, is majoring in Chris- While these three congregations only cover tend the same church, while others are unique in grow and expand. tian Education Leadership and attends Trinity a small sample of Concordia’s representation in their place of worship. Mike Middendorf, Professor of Theology, wor- Cristo Rey Church along with Middendorf. Wilson churches throughout the area, these congregations Martin Schramm, Chair of the Communica- ships at Trinity Cristo Rey Church, a bilingual not only attends service here, but she also works at are very supportive and appreciative towards Con- tions Department, attends Faith Lutheran Church church in Santa Ana. This church is unique be- Trinity Cristo Rey. “It’s interesting to see profes- cordia-related activities. A Christian school envi- in Capistrano Beach. There are many activities cause it offers services in both English and Span- sors do your work,” Wilson said. “It’s nice to see ronment allows everyone to discuss their faith and to get the congregation involved including youth ish to accommodate the diverse demographics of them outside the school element.” She enjoys the learn from one another, with part of this element groups and Bible studies. He enjoys going to the the Santa Ana community. “It’s a great reflection cross-cultural environment of Trinity Cristo Rey. coming through worship together both on and off traditional service because it includes a liturgy. that not everyone lives this way,” Middendorf said. Professor Kristen Schmidt, Professor of Eng- of campus.

Trinity Cristo Rey Lutheran Church in Santa Ana, CA Fe b r u a r y 21, 2012 Ev e r y t h i n g Ea g l e s 7 Third annual Fine Arts Preview Day held on campus over weekend Upcoming Events

Jamie Vaughan fellow peers,” said Jeff Held, Performing and Visual Staff WRiter Arts Division Chair. Center for Public Policy Forum The prospective students had a chance to watch Managing Pension Costs: What Local Goverments Can Do Concordia hosted its third annual Fine Arts a scene from “The Cover of Life,” a Concordia play Featuring: Nick Berardino, General Manager, Orange County Employees Association Preview Day on Sat., Feb. 18. The event was co- selected for the American College Theater Festival. Tom Wood, City Manager, City of Anaheim (Retired) ordinated by the Admissions Department and the The Jazz Combo also played during lunch, and the Girard Miller, Senior Strategist, Public Financial Management and columnist, Governing Magazine Fine and Performing Arts Division for Prospective Concordia Choir and Wind Orchestra performed Fri. Feb. 24 7:30 - 9:00 a.m. Freshmen and Transfer Students. This preview day throughout the preview day. “The arts have a huge Grimm Hall, Third Floor Conference Room differs from other admissions events because in- draw for Concordia,” said Melissa Cheffers, junior, $10 at the door coming students have the opportunity to audition “The choir has at least 60-70 people in it each year Breakfast will be served. for choir and theater scholarships. There were a se- and the theater program has 40 or more.” Cheffers ries of music recitals for the families to watch, stu- sang in the choir performance, performed in the Improv Shimprov dent art was on display and theater performances scene from “The Cover of Life” and worked with Wed. Feb. 22 were held throughout the day. admissions giving tours to the prospective students 8 p.m. – 10 p.m. There were about 150 prospective students and and families. CU Ampitheatre family members who came to the Fine Arts Pre- “I am a music person by heart and it is nice see- Sponsored by Concordia Res Life view Day. The prospective students had a chance ing the new talent coming to Concordia along with to mingle with current students and get a realis- the excited new faces on campus,” said Narleen tic view of what the college atmosphere is like. “I Narciso, Assistant Director of Admissions and think a huge selling point for new students is that Events Coordinator. The Fine Arts Preview Day the ones who come to Concordia are looking for a was successful in portraying the Concordia atmo- more intimate relationship with their school and sphere to prospective students and their families.

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Courtesy: printfreesudokus.com 8 Re v i e w s Fe b r u a r y 21, 2012 The award for Best Picture Core book Review: goes to… Pretentiousness “Moll Flanders” vs. “Jane Eyre”: Erik Olsen expected it to be little more than a glorified white the “pop-culture vulture” guilt Lifetime flick. And it kind of is. But it’s also really well done. It could easily get the third spot Female Protagonist Showdown 1994: I might have only been five at the time, here. I think The Help will clean house in other but even I knew that Pulp Fiction was vastly su- areas, namely Best Actress—Viola Davis’ perfor- perior to Forrest Gump, and was devastated when mance is inspirational. But, in terms of Best Picture Zach Borst you say you have nothing.” Moll’s marriage fails Tom Hanks’ gabfest was awarded Best Picture over quality, three films have it beat. Arts Editor due to finances, and she returns to her childhood Tarantino’s flawless epic. Since then, I’ve been nurs- 3. The Descendants: Like him or not, there’s feeling of want. This leads her to a life of poverty ing a growing disdain for the Academy Awards. So, no denying George Clooney is a great actor whose In Charlotte Brontë’s “Jane Eyre” and Daniel and crime…again. naturally, I jumped at the chance when asked to performance delivers the emotional punch that Defoe’s “Moll Flanders,” the authors present fe- It is only after Moll is caught for theft and write a piece on 2012’s Best Picture nominees. has gotten this film so far in the Oscar race. His male characters with vastly different moral be- brought to the notorious Newgate Prison that she Normally, these bloated, pretentious, awards character is put in such an awkward position—an havior. But which protagonist is more realistic? repents of her actions: “I Liv’d many Days here bait movies-masquerading-as-masterpieces just absentee husband balancing his cheating wife who Moll is born an orphan, and Jane is mistreated by under the utmost horror of Soul; I had Death as aren’t satisfying. I’d much rather watch Liam is in a coma, two daughters, and his family’s mas- her nasty aunt. Both experience pain, but is Jane’s it were in view, and thought of nothing Night and Neeson get attacked by wolves in Alaska than see sive Hawaiian property—that you really can’t help response of high-minded idealism and morality Day but of Gibbets and Halters, evil Spirits and Sean Penn reflect on his roots. However, I do have but feel for him. He’s definitely got my vote for Best likeable? And is Moll’s foray into thievery, prosti- Devils.” As I read “Moll Flanders,” I thought that to give the Academy credit for putting together a Actor. It’s a powerful film, but there are two others tution and deceit understandable? Both novels of- Defoe failed with this ending. A moralizing nar- pretty diverse list of films this year. The nominees I still think are superior. fer engaging female characters who react against ration to tie up an unbelievably exaggerated tale are: Hugo, The Artist, The Help, Extremely Loud & 2. The Artist is one of them. It’s absolutely de- the (male) social dictates of their times. of crime just doesn’t fit: “I was cover’d with Shame Incredibly Close, Moneyball, The Descendants, The lightful, funny and charming… which pretty much The narrator of “Moll Flanders,” Moll herself, and Tears for things past, and yet had at the same Tree of Life, Warhorse, and Midnight in Paris. Four disqualifies it from winning Best Picture. It’s so presents the beginning of her biography as an ex- time a secret surprising Joy at the Prospect of be- too many, if you ask me. authentic in its representation—it truly feels like cuse for her later misbehavior: “However it was, ing a true Penitent.” Perhaps Defoe believed that Let’s be honest. Extremely Loud & Incredibly watching a silent film, from the music, to the cin- this they all agree in, that my Mother pleaded Moll needed salvation to write a successful novel, Close doesn’t have a chance, and neither does War- ematography, to the mannerisms of the actors. Ev- her Belly, and being found quick with Child; she but it sounds like moralizing. horse. I liked Moneyball a lot, but I can’t realistically erything is down 100%. It brings the glory of Old was respited for about seven Months.” Moll was Moll serves as a 17-c. version of Hosea’s wife, see it winning. I also loved Hugo, but the Academy Hollywood to life. And it deserves all the credit in born in unfortunate circumstances—her mother Gomer, who acted as a symbol of God’s justifica- has a history of snubbing Scorsese, and this seems the world for creating a gripping story that’s A— quickly abandons her and fulfills her sentence in tion of Israel. The convention on Defoe’s part to like a perfect opportunity for them to do so, yet only 80 minutes long and B—completely devoid of the colonies—and Moll’s physical destitution and lead a spiritually saved sinner to some great wind- again. So, in the interest of space, I’m omitting any talking. This is Art. This is entertainment. This poverty continue to haunt her throughout the fall weakens that message though. Her repentance them. deserves to win. But not as much as… novel. isn’t entirely believable, and now the ending lines Here are my rankings for the rest of the Best 1. Midnight in Paris: Hands down, my favorite “Jane Eyre” is similarly narrated after-the- of “Moll Flanders” end on a note that break the Picture nominees. film of 2011. No question. I knew absolutely noth- fact by its main character. Jane recollects an early suspension of disbelief: “Thus all these little Diffi- 5. The Tree of Life: Unbearable. How is Tree of ing about it when I went in, and I think that really childhood event that terrifies her—she is merci- culties were made easy, and we liv’d together with Life like the New England Patriots? It tries way too added to my viewing experience. The Artist owns lessly hit by her cousin John because she reads the greatest Kindness and Comfort imaginable; hard to be perfect… and then it loses to the Gi- my heart, but Midnight in Paris owns my soul. Not from the family’s library. Ms. Abbot, one of the we are now grown Old…” That’s pleasant. ants in the Super Bowl. Twice. I know the critics even Woody Allen’s involvement could make me Reeds’ employees, reprimands Jane after she has a Jane ends her narrative on a happy note too. are slobbering all over it, and there’s no reason to dislike this film. It’s that great. Beautiful and hilari- spat with her cousin: “And you ought not to think After being tricked into almost marrying a mar- believe it won’t win. But some small, naïve part of ous, it connects on a human level without feeling yourself on an equality with the Misses Reed and ried man, Mr. Rochester, she comes back to the me still has faith in these people known only as the overdone. It’s everything I love about the movies. Master Reed, because Missis kindly allows you to English countryside to find him a blind widower. Academy. Hopefully, a love of movies and enter- If you’re a writer, or an English major, you need to be brought up with them.” Now that Rochester must rely on Jane and can- tainment will prevail, and this film will fall. see this film. Now. If this doesn’t win Best Picture, Both Moll and Jane come from nonexistent not lie to her, they marry. Jane writes: “I hold 4. The Help: When I first saw the previews, I I will be genuinely disappointed. families and have intriguing relationships with myself supremely blest—blest beyond what lan- men later in their lives. Bordering on the line of guage can express; because I am my husband’s life male authoritarianism, Jane’s friend St. John Riv- as fully as he is mine.” In order to maintain the Bruxie provides savory ers proposes in a not-so-romantic fashion: “God freedom she would not have had as a subordinate and nature intended you for a missionary’s wife. It to St. John Rivers, Jane marries a man physically is not personal, but mental endowments they have weakened. She is truly equal with him and cannot given you: you are formed for labour, not for love. be demeaned by him. This final image in “Jane A missionary’s wife you must—shall be. You shall Eyre” is curious. Brontë makes Jane an equal with waffles for any season be mine: I claim you—not for my pleasure, but for a man lessened by his physical infirmity, but Jane Taylor Bundy not the only reason it is so popular with college Staff Writer students and locals. The sandwiches are uniquely my Sovereign’s service.” Jane’s fate is dictated to is not lowered. Instead, Rochester’s blindness al- mouth-watering and all items are priced under her by her society, by men and by religion. Jane, lows him to approach Jane as an equal instead of a Bruxie: Gourmet Waffle Sandwiches sits right $10. prepared to backslap St. John with pre-Feminist as an inferior. Jane rejects Rochester and St. John across the street from Chapman University in Just as the waiter recommended, the Bruxie verbiage, rebuts: “I am ready to go to India, if I Rivers’ proposals to be a diminutive half in less- downtown Orange. The small, gold building looks Burger is a winner. What looks to be an average may go free.” Jane’s search for freedom and in- than-savory marriages, but chooses Rochester unassuming, but a line of people usually stretches burger is something that will surprise your taste dividuality claims a higher hold than one man’s after he realizes that she is free. around the restaurant. An original take on waffles, buds as soon as you bite into the Bruxie and taste orders, even if he believes it is God-ordained to Both “Moll Flanders” and “Jane Eyre” have Bruxie is delicious food for breakfast, lunch, din- the juicy Angus burger inside. make Jane a missionary’s wife. their weak points. Moll’s conversion and peni- ner, and dessert. The “Bruxie” is unlike any Bel- For dessert they serve a scrumptious Nutella & On the other hand, Moll does not mind mar- tence seem feigned, and the novel’s ending in gium Waffle on the market: it’s light, crisp, yeasty, Bananas Bruxie with sweet cream drizzled inside. rying someone for the wrong reasons: “In short, America draws out Defoe’s ending to become too and not too sweet—that’s how it works so well for If you love bananas, this is a must. my Eyes were dazl’d, I had now lost my Power easy for the reader and for Moll. Jane is a maiden- every meal. The Orange location is a walk-up window of saying No, and to the Story short, I consented ly saint throughout the novel, which is almost as Bruxie serves seven savory waffle sandwiches restaurant with patio seating. At night they have to be married.” Unfortunately for Moll, her Lan- unrealistic as Moll’s sudden moralism. Yet, “Moll and six sweet waffle sandwiches. If you’re just pyramid gas heaters burning which cast a warm cashire husband—the second of several—has no Flanders” and “Jane Eyre” stand out as literary looking for a good old-fashioned waffle, they glow while keeping you comfortable as you eat and money. She does not blame him for his subterfuge, gems because their heroines have the gall to push sell those too—either a “Brussels Waffle” topped mingle. They also have fans and misters for those however, because of her own trickery: “Why, says back against masculine societies that try to define with powdered or cinnamon sugar and butter, or sultry California days. I to him, this has been a hellish Juggle, for we are what women are. Jane stands up to men who try a “Liege Waffle” which is served with caramelized The great thing about Bruxie, is their seasonal married here upon the foot of a double Fraud, you to subordinate her (“I am ready to go to India, if I pearl sugar and your choice of Nutella or Belgian and holiday specials. They prepare unique options are undone by the Disappointment it seems, and may go free.”), and Moll succeeds in cheating ava- Chocolate. in addition to the regular menu. This prevents a I had had a Fortune I had been cheated too, for ricious men for her own needs and desires. The customer service is superb. Once you step regular customer from ever getting bored. For Val- under their black awnings, you are immediately entine’s Day they had a yummy dessert with ripe welcomed by one of the staff members working strawberries, ganache and whip cream folded into outside. They are pleased to help with making a de- a waffle. Currently, they’re serving a milkshake cision. When asked what was one worker’s favorite, made with fresh California strawberries topped off he recommended the Bruxie Burger, the Prosciutto with a large dollop of whip cream. & Gruyere sandwich, and the Créme Brulée waffle. Bruxie first opened in Orange in 2010 and an- But before he could finish, his coworker stepped in other location opened a year later in Brea. They and smiled, “I think you would be happy with any also have plans to open a Bruxie in Rancho Santa of the options—they’re all so good!” Margarita this April or May. In 2011, Bruxie was Sitting almost directly across from Chapman ranked second on Yelp’s Top 10 list of best U.S. res- University, dozens of college students can be seen taurants. So what are you waiting for? Hop in your hanging around the patio. However, location is car and go try “The Bold Fold.”

Bruxie sits on the corner of Palm Ave. and Glassell St. in Orange, Ca