In a statement outlining the reasoning behind the change, the Motley managers defend the change, calling it an alignment with its semester goals and mission statement by “promoting environmental and socially conscious business practices.” Although the to-go cups are biodegradable, less than 5% of Motley cups are properly disposed of in composting bins. If the cups aren’t composted, they sit in landfills just like any other disposable product.

All profits generated by the to-go cup policy will go directly to the Motley sponsorship program, which gives “funding for individuals and groups to pursue their own projects.” Those that cannot afford to buy a mug of their own can apply for a small grant through the sponsorship program.

Ultimately, the Motley hopes that the extra charge will encourage customers to bring their own mugs or stay and enjoy their drinks at the coffeehouse. The plan may backfire, as not all students want to linger at the Motley or carry and wash their own coffee containers. Instead, a sizable portion of Motley customers stop by for a quick and convenient caffeine fix between classes or before heading to the library. These students may not be willing to pay the extra fee or bring their own cups, especially with the proximity of Peet’s Coffee at Pomona, Starbucks, and the newly opened café in Honnold Mudd. Service can already be slow at the Motley, and the new policy may further discourage patronage from rushed students.

The Motley will be hosting a public forum to discuss the change and receive feedback. You can also email motley@scrippscollege.edu with questions and comments.

Other than horse racing, deep fried pickles, the world’s largest mobile grill, and a slew of classic rides, the fair is hosting an end of summer concert series featuring everyone from the Beach Boys to Jessica Simpson.   Tickets to the shows range in price from $18.50 for the nosebleed section to $125 for stage side seats. If you’re willing to wait in line the day of a show, the fair hands out a limited number of free tickets.  Don’t be afraid to sit in the back section, the venue isn’t that big, and pretty much everyone has a good view of the stage. Follow the fair on Twitter @lacountyfair. Sometimes you can get upgraded seats or free stuff for correct answers to trivia questions. Although it’s too late to see Peter Frampton and Kansas, you can still catch the Mariachi USA Fiesta (complete with a fireworks finale), Pat Benatar with Berlin, Donna Summer, Ciara, the Beach Boys, and special motocross and demolition derby events.

This fair has the most carnival rides in the nation, including the largest mobile Ferris wheel in the Western Hemisphere.  The rides can get pretty pricey, so try and go on a Wednesday, when you can get fair admission and an unlimited ride pass for $20.

All in all, the fair is a great way to see a wide assortment of crazy, kitschy things and people without having to drive very far.   If you’re still not convinced, just think of all the fun(nel cake) you’ll have checking out the Budweiser Clydesdale horses and acting like a kid again.