Avery Smith

Dec 20, 2024 | baycitytribune.com | Avery Smith

As December’s chill wraps the world in a frosty embrace (everywhere except Texas that is), the air seems to shimmer with anticipation. Evergreen wreaths, studded with crimson berries, adorn doorways. Golden lights flicker like stars in the windows of cozy homes. The scent of fresh pine mixes with the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg, drifting from kitchens where cookies bake and cider simmers.

Nov 15, 2024 | baycitytribune.com | Avery Smith

Art, in its most pure form, is a deeply human endeavor. It’s a way to express the inexpressible, reflect on existence, and perhaps most importantly, fulfill our humanistic duty. Without art, homo-sapiens would not have pushed to the forefront of the human species, defeating the stronger, bigger Neanderthals. An argument has been made that this was due to our innovative and adventurous thinking. But as artificial intelligence (AI) continues to take the stage, it begs the question: Is art dying?

Nov 15, 2024 | bladenjournal.com | Avery Smith

Hurricane Helene caused catastrophic damage in Florida and continued its destruction in Georgia and Western North Carolina. Western North Carolina was flooded, and people were stuck in their houses, many having to hike down. These communities are struggling to rebuild and need all the help they can get. This column will explain ways to get involved with local groups to help these families and let you know you can always stay updated.

Oct 11, 2024 | baycitytribune.com | Avery Smith

Violence against women — domestic, sexual, psychological and physical — has been a running joke for centuries. From the 1910s anti-suffragette propaganda to modern-day comedians making domestic violence a punchline — it’s all aimed at oppressing women. While many believe this type of oppression is a relic from the past, it happens more often than you’d think. Millions of women around the world still experience some form of violence or maltreatment — including those close to home.

Sep 27, 2024 | pepperdinebeacon.com | Avery Smith

Studying abroad is one of Pepperdine’s hallmarks. Most of the programs, including all of the European programs, recreate a Malibu-like experience in the host countries. Students live in dormitory-like housing, together–much like we do in Malibu. Eating together and living together on a Pepperdine-owned campus is part of the expectation. “Community” in those programs is with the people you arrived with, and with whom you will return to Malibu.