Daily Titan | April 3, 2023

The city of Fullerton and the North Orange County Chamber hosted the annual State of the City: The Crossroads of Opportunity, where Fullerton mayor Fred Jung addressed the current status of the city and its future at the Titan Student Union at Cal State Fullerton on March 29.

The theme of the event emphasized the significance of potent infrastructure and growth in moving the Fullerton community forward. Jung said that Fullerton remains committed to increasing diversity, economic growth and stability and encouraging investments abroad.

Despite these goals, the city is expected to run a $5.2 million deficit, according to the Fullerton 2022-2023 adopted budget.

Since 2019, the city has gradually decreased in revenue until this year, where they expect to

Downtown could get noisier if limit lifted

In an effort to promote nightlife in downtown Fullerton, the Fullerton City Council is considering voting on the city’s noise regulations, increasing the decibel levels to better suit current living standards.

The city council will decide whether the ordinance should be changed for the entire city, or if the downtown area should be allowed to have an exception.

Noise levels in the regulations are defined by the decibel scale, which measures sound, ranging between a safe 30-decibel whisper to a dangerous 140-decibel firework.

receive $243.6 million. In contrast, the city expects to spend about $248.8 million this year, which is the most the city expected to spend in the last ten years.

Last year, the Daily Titan reported the city decreased its budget by 2.5% and cut an additional $3.8 million, resulting in a 10% pay reduction for senior sta ffers, layoffs and expenditure cutbacks.

President and CEO of North Orange County

SEE CITY 2

Freshmen leading water polo in inaugural season

MATTHEW ROSOFF Sta Writer

In its inaugural year as a program at Cal State Fullerton, the women’s water polo team has been led by its top-performing freshman athletes, with more than half the roster being first-years at the collegiate level.

Of the 13 players who compete, eight are freshmen, one is a sophomore and the other four are juniors.

The team’s top performer is freshman Gabrielle Zaretskiy, who is currently third overall in goals scored in the Big West Conference with 59.

Kyle Witt, the head coach of the team, understands the ups-and-downs of coaching a freshman-heavy team.

“For these guys to get to start their own program and start a culture the way they want to start it, the way Fullerton wants to start it – that is unique. So there's no one that came before them. They're the trailblazers. So I think that's the best part,” Witt said.

Freshman Delaney Wilder, who is fourth on the team in goals, believes

that age does not impact ability in the pool.

“No matter how young you are, how long you've been out of the pool, you put in the work, have the right mindset – you can be a top player for your team,” Wilder said.

Kylie Corwin, a freshman who plays mostly center guard, believes this is a great opportunity for the team's young core to gain experience, which will really benefit the team in the following seasons to come.

The team is led by captain Mia Solorzano, a redshirt freshman and recent transfer from Loyola Marymount University. Solorzano is the second-leading scorer on the team and is currently tied for sixth for goals in the Big West with 45.

Solorzano became interested in water polo by playing with friends in Commerce, California, a city that is known for water polo.

Commerce’s highly competitive water polo teams, which are sponsored by the city, add to the national pedigree.

The city boasts a $20 million pool, which is named after Brenda Villa,

Commerce resident and one of the most decorated athletes in women’s water polo history, and employs multiple water polo coaches. This interest led her to play for her

high school team at Rosary Academy in Fullerton, where she guided her team to two CIF championships and received multiple accolades and awards

SEE SHOT 7

Current regulations limit noise levels across the city to a maximum of 55 decibels, the level of a large business office, from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. The proposed modification raises these levels for downtown to 70 decibels at a maximum of 80 decibels, which is about equivalent to a vacuum cleaner and a blender three feet from where a person is standing, respectively. The addition of a maximum noise level only permits sounds at 80 decibels between a minute and five minutes.

The city council received a presentation from the director of Community and Economic Development, Sunayana Thomas, to get feedback on the city’s current noise regulations and review sta ff recommendations from 2020.

“When these ordinances were created, there weren’t many houses downtown, if any at all,” Fullerton mayor Fred Jung said. “Downtown was more of antique stores, pawn shops, businesses. It was not really a living and residential environment.”

The development of the current noise regulations have been ongoing since 2009, as reaching a consensus on the details have proven di fficult. In 2019, the city council reviewed changes to the rules but was delayed by the pandemic.

“Essentially, we said businesses were on notice and active enforcement was in place,” Thomas said. “However, what’s important to note that it’s incomplete, because what we have today is obsolete in the sense that it’s unenforceable and unrealistic noise levels of standard operations.”

One of the questions Thomas and her staff had for the council was whether to include outdoor entertainment in these new regulations. The current rules do not allow outdoor entertainment, including outdoor speakers, amplifiers or performances.

SEE SOUND 3

Fullerton mayor Fred Jung

EMILIO MELENDEZ / DAILY TITAN HUY NGUYEN EMILIO MELENDEZ Sta Writers

Out of the 13 players who compete, eight of the Titans are freshmen. NAVTEJ HUNDAL / DAILY TITAN

LUIS VIZCAINO Sta Writer

City: Fullerton seeks new revenue opportunities

development because we want this to be a safe city and have the services that are available for our citizens and our businesses.”

The Fullerton Fire Department received a four-year salary increase of 22% in February to improve employment and retention. This comes after the city council went against the pleas of the fire department and voted 3-2 against joining the Orange County Fire Authority last October.

In an interview with the Daily Titan in February, Jung said the city did not currently have the budget to pay for the salary increase. Last September, the Daily Titan reported Loeser said that 25% of positions in the Fullerton Fire Department were vacant. The Daily Titan also reported that Fullerton firefighters were paid 16% below average salaries.

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Chamber, Andrew Gregson, said the event is also an occasion to bring together everyone from business owners to developers, from private sectors to large corporations.

“There's quite a few people from other countries here today,” Gregson

said. “They're seeing and learning more about what Fullerton has to offer. And maybe their crossroads of opportunity might be making a good decision to bring their business here to Fullerton.”

Adam Loeser, the chief of the Fullerton Fire Department, said the event was spectacular and reflected

that the city leadership and all the city personnel are trying to make improvements.

“Right now, the city fire department, we're also in the process of rebuilding,” Loeser said. “Hiring and promoting and to make sure that we're able to meet the increased demands and needs of future

Jung recognized outside investors for their contributions to the city and also upcoming projects, including Provecho Market. Jung said he believes it will benefit Fullerton the most and represent the city’s growing diversity.

“That used to be an old CVS property and it sat empty for years, because CVS is consolidated and left some of their larger properties,” Jung said. “A Korean-American businessman, who grew up in Argentina and familiarized himself with Latin meat

and Latin food, transformed that property into a Hispanic market.”

Also in attendance were the president of Farmers & Merchants Bank, Henry Walker, and the vice president of CSUF Advancement, Greg Saks. CSUF was also a sponsor for the event.

Saks took an opportunity to thank the people attending the event, who had invested in CSUF over the last few years, and said he was thrilled to partner with the city and the businesses within the city of Fullerton and North Orange County.

Scott Do, the district representative for Josh Newman, the Democratic Senator from Fullerton, said he was hopeful for the future of Fullerton by the leadership represented at the State of the City Address.

Do also said his optimism is due to the council wanting to save money, increase revenue into the city and repair the roads while bringing businesses back to Fullerton as well.

“I think it's going upwards. I think with the leadership right now, they are trying their best. We’ve seen a lot of new developments across the city, a lot of funding had gone to things that we have needed, a lot of instrumental votes have happened on council, which have made the city kind of locked into its forward progression in the future,” Do said.

CSUF expands on new drop-in support groups

GABRIELA PEREZ- ORTA Sta Writer

The Counseling & Psychological Services at Cal State Fullerton have added a new drop-in Anxiety Support Group this semester, joining the Graduate Student Support Group and the Eating Concerns and Body Image Support Group.

The service’s crisis coordinator and faculty counselor, Megan Bonynge, facilitates the dropin Anxiety Support Groups and the Eating Concerns and Body Image Support Group.

Bonynge said she noticed how common anxiety is among college students, and having a space dedicated to alleviating that anxiety with assistance from a licensed clinician is helpful for students to avoid feeling isolated.

In the drop-in Anxiety Support Group, students learn about anxiety and how to manage it, along with hands-on activities to integrate the tools into real situations.

CAPS’sw faculty counselor and prevention education coordinator, Jacquelyn Gerali, said the drop-in groups offer a setting that alleviates stigmas around counseling.

“When it comes to things like social anxiety, the benefit of being able to be connected with other folks is very useful, and it’s a great way to be able to manage social anxiety,” Gerali said.

Leonardo Guillen, a first-year transfer at CSUF, attended a session of the drop-in anxiety support group. However, he said he did not feel like it was adequate for him or his needs.

“I personally didn’t feel like I was specifically their target demographic, but that’s totally fine because there needs to be like groups for other people who aren't really represented,” Guillen said.

The Eating Concerns and Body Image Support Group revolves around supporting and navigating in a space that is neutral and non-judgmental.

The services also offer multiple workshops to better students’ well-being such as Mindful Mondays, Soulful Wellness and the Art of Wellness Workshop Series.

There are also wellness workshops facilitated by mental wellness peer educators, consisting of undergraduate or graduate students working at CAPS.

“They were originally designed as we were noticing many students were coming in for similar concerns with managing stress, sleep, mood and thought,” Gerali said. “There’s the four different workshops about 16 times throughout the semester.”

Mindful Mondays create a space to practice mindfulness, help manage stress and increase self-awareness.

The Art of Wellness Workshop Series is also available for students to engage in creating art.

“They don’t really have to speak if it’s something they're not comfortable with. It’s actually a space to be relaxing with art and engage in different art activities,” Gerali said.

Soulful Wellness provides self-care strategies to students, with multiple counselors guiding the space.

Every semester, CAPS focuses on adding more drop-in groups, some covering new topics or possibly bringing back past topics. A common topic Gerali said she has noticed as an area for students to work on is relationships.

Another addition to this semester's list of workshops was Building Healthy Relationships, which aids students with engaging and managing relationships. The group meets on Thursdays at 2

p.m. on the third floor of Titan Hall.

Students can suggest new drop-in sessions in questionnaires where CAPS gathers feedback and implement new drop-in groups.

The service’s programs are covered under the student health fee which is included in tuition payment. Most funds are allocated to psychiatrist sessions, group therapy, drop-in groups and wellness workshops.

Mayor Jung and Andrew Gregson of the North Orange County Chamber of Commerce were both speakers at the event.

EMILIO MELENDEZ / DAILY TITAN

The Anxiety Support Group is open for drop-ins on Tuesdays at 11 a.m. on the third oor of Titan Hall.

GABRIELA PEREZ- ORTA / DAILY TITAN

Titan Student Union installs quiet study booths

EMILIO MELENDEZ Sta Writer

For students looking to maximize productivity in a busy environment, the Associated Students have constructed two brand new personal use booths, called Pillars, in the Titan Student Union.

The pillars, located in room 133, are tall glass booths that contain a stool, an outlet and a desk that can be used for laptops and notebook use. This booth is enclosed by a door and only has room for one person each.

Director of TSU, Jeff Fehrn, wrote in an email to the Daily Titan that he noticed students were in noisy and crowded places.

“The ASI Board of Directors and TSU staff agreed that offering a space where noise and other guests don’t disturb a student’s academic success would be successful,” Fehrn wrote.

According to Fehrn, the installation of these booths cost approximately $13,000 and was installed back in January.

Fehrn wrote that they were the inspiration for the booth installation came from the positive feedback of the booths in the Pollak Library, which had been installed in that building since fall 2021, when the campus returned to in-person classes following the pandemic.

Students have given positive feedback on the use of the booths and it has been serving as one more resource to help them succeed on campus, Fehrn wrote.

Karen Chen, a senior studying kinesiology, said she appreciates what the booth has provided her this semester.

“I started using those this semester. I think it’s pretty good to have

the personal study booths because people are studying and sometimes they are playing audio or sound, and it's hard to concentrate when there is noise around,” Chen said.

Sound: Fullerton may raise noise levels

“It’s basically isolating you from your surroundings.”

Chen also said that it has been more efficient for her to study for quizzes and exams in the study booths.

Chen encourages other students to use them, as she plans to continue taking advantage of them being available.

“I will keep studying in those study booths if there’s any open spots

available,” Chen said. Fehrn wrote that the booths are a first-come, first-serve basis that will be open for use during TSU operating hours.

Bands like Brown Sugar may be able to play outdoors if the noise limits increase.

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Many residents from Fullerton and nearby cities came to the council meeting and attended through Zoom to show their support for updates to the regulations. Most people came in support of the downtown Fullerton restaurant Les Amis, but the consensus was in favor of outdoor live entertainment.

Melanie Mathis, an Anaheim Hills resident, spoke during public comment in support of adding live outdoor entertainment to the regulations. She previously lived in Fullerton for 18 years and is friends with some of the musicians that play in downtown Fullerton.

“I knew it was confusing to the business owners, and I know it didn’t seem to be enforced with regularity,” Mathis said. “It was

unclear to the business owners exactly what was in the ordinance.”

The pandemic’s restrictions complicated the enforcement of the regulations due to the need for open air spaces by the businesses downtown.

Ron Kobayashi has been a musician for 35 years and currently plays at Les Amis on the first and third Saturday of the month.

“When Covid was really hitting us, every place had to have outdoor music,” Kobayashi said. “If they didn't have outdoor music they shut down their music, so we were all unemployed during that time. It was nonexistent without the restaurants that had outdoor venues, and that’s why we want to keep it going.”

A new set of regulations has not been proposed, but review of the current regulations and possible changes are underway.

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The personal booths cost Cal State Fullerton approximately $13,000 and are available for students to study and take Zoom calls.

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Fullerton Arboretum grows a garden flea market

MAHEALANI WU Sta Writer

After months of preparation, the arboretum will host the Garden Flea Market, its first event at the Fullerton Arboretum since the pandemic closed campus in 2020.

The Garden Flea Market will take place at the Bacon Pavillion in the arboretum and is free to the public. It will take place on April 6 from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. and will include 24 student vendors, a DJ and food from

Baby’s Burgers, with free lunch for the first 100 students. Students can also engage with the arboretum’s discovery stations. The 17 students who have organized the event come from an event planning and management class taught by communications professor Jasmine Phillips Meertins.

Meertins said that her students have gained an understanding of how to meet their client’s needs and fulfill their goals as a team.

“When you go to the arboretum, you don't see a lot of students walking

around. So you just don't feel the presence there. And it is tucked away, it's in the corner,” Meertins said. Her students noticed that most students did not know about the arboretum through a survey and were given the goal of connecting the arboretum with Cal State Fullerton.

Lesly Ramirez Dernabe, a senior communications major and the project’s event director, said she hopes students recognize the arboretum’s importance on campus. The class focuses on bringing a younger crowd and trying to keep up with trends, which is

why they settled on a flea market.

Finding businesses to sponsor their event was slow in the beginning, but catering manager Zaira Garcia, a fourth-year communications major, said many student vendors reached out to participate. This includes a fashion boutique owned by a CSUF alumni Lyndsey Gutiérrez, and clubs such as Fullerton Fashion and CSUF Pilipinx American Student Association.

Visitors will also be able to purchase unique art and handmade items made by students, and participate in discovery stations, which are interactive learning experiences.

Harriet Bouldin, the development, membership and volunteership manager, said the arboretum’s discovery stations are based on volunteer availability and anticipates that there will be four available on the day of the event.

Bouldin said volunteers are a critical source of support as the arboretum has such a small staff and typically only receives a third of the volunteers that it needs to run its programs and classes.

Beyond volunteering and finding peace in its natural escapes, students can integrate it into their curriculum, benefiting the arboretum with more visitors. The arboretum will feature student art exhibits from April through May, giving MFA students the opportunity to sell their art.

“All the beautiful flags here on the outside, these were photographed by

students. And then the ones inside were artwork done by computer science or computer graphics students,” said Theresa Hagelbarger, the volunteer coordinator of the arboretum.

Hagelbarger said they receive 20 to 30 applicants each month and the application process goes through approval through the university. Academic opportunities exist for students across all departments, and the arboretum can connect with the community through environmental education.

The arboretum has hosted previous events such as the Green Scene, which has not returned since 2019, and a victorian tea party. Bouldin said both were popular springtime events.

“As we reopened, we really didn't and still don't have the resources that it takes to plan and host events. So we have not held any major events since reopening,” Bouldin said.

Meertins said planning these events has been a longer process than expected and her students have had to make adjustments that align with the arboretum. A previous class began planning idea for a flea market, which was put on pause for this semester.

“So we decided that instead of planning small little events, we wanted to do a big opening event because that's what the Fullerton arboretum wants,” Meertins said.

The event following the Garden Flea Market will be a plant sale, which will take place from April 14 to 16.

Destroy the dance floor during K-pop Night

held later in the evening where three lucky winners will win gift baskets.

party. However, this is the first music-themed night that includes Asian Americans.

The Associated Students, in collaboration with K-pop Club and the Seoul.ful dance team, have come together to host a night full of K-pop related activities where all fans of the genre can find like-minded students and a community.

K-pop Night will run for three hours from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, and will be located at the Titan Student Union Pavilions.

The event will include the club’s special event, where a mix of K-pop songs are played and fans who know the choreographies can dance along to them. It will also include photocard decorating, giveaways and more.

There will also be performances by Seoul.ful, a K-pop dance team on campus, to promote the group to students and encourage students who are interested in dance to join.

Upon checking in for the event, students will be given a ticket for a raffle drawing that will be

While vendors are not allowed to sell items at the event, some of the gift baskets for the giveaway will include items from small businesses on campus such as T-shirts, stickers and decorated top loaders to hold photocards in.

There will also be stickers, photocards and cup sleeves created by ASI’s marketing team available while supplies last for students apart from the giveaway prizes.

Aundrea Nunez, a programming and engagement graduate assistant, and Ashley Hernandez, student programmer, initially came up with the idea for the event after realizing just how many people liked K-pop.

The pair asked Kayla Lam, an ASI programming coordinator, to help with the planning process, which later led to the inclusion of K-pop club and Seoul.ful.

This isn’t the first time ASI is hosting an event like this, as they have previously hosted Bad Bunny Night and a Taylor Swift album listening

“I love K-pop and I just thought it was a really good opportunity to reach more people on campus because we’ve yet to have an ASI event catered toward that group of people,” Lam said.

Kenya Sanchez, the president of Seoul.ful, described the planning process as fun and enjoyable, since it involved many activities K-pop fans are already familiar with.

“It’s a lot of fun activities within K-pop culture, so, it was just brainstorming together, seeing what was the most fun and what we could put out there,” Sanchez said.

Corrine Plunkett, the treasurer for K-pop Club, brought up the importance of diverse events like these being hosted by people that are regularly involved and experienced within the subject.

Since the club arranges game nights, learns about new K-pop artists and holds gatherings to watch music videos and Korean dramas, their involvement in hosting K-pop Night was essential.

“It’s something that I’m really excited to know that they were like, ‘I understand that this is a big genre and I want to show that to everybody, and I want to make sure that there’s an entire night for it, just like Bad Bunny,’” Plunkett said.

Through K-pop Night, Lam wants to bring a community of people together, and hopes the event will help students meet new people and get to know each other better.

“I think it’s really cool to be in an environment where everyone is here for the same reason,” Lam said.

Sanchez also brought up a similar sentiment, focusing on how the atmosphere of K-pop Night could help students who are more reserved connect with others that share the same interest.

Students can continue looking forward to gatherings similar to K-pop Night even after the event is over by checking out future events, such as Seoul.ful’s upcoming showcase on April 14 or K-pop Club’s random play dance on April 27.

MELISSA RENDON Sta Writer

The Fullerton Arboretum gears up to host its rst Garden Flea Market, which will feature several student and local vendors.

MAHEALANI WU / DAILY TITAN

Tuffy's Table: Crafting hummus California style

ROSE MENDEZ Sta Writer

National Arab American Heritage month begins in April, and what better way to start it off than by making an appetizing Middle Eastern food staple such as hummus. This avocado hummus recipe elevates your traditional hummus by giving it a richer, creamier flavor and a smooth green color. It’s the ideal nourishing snack full of protein, combining healthy fat from the avocado and great flavor.

The word ‘hummus’ directly translates to ‘chickpea’ in Arabic. It is considered a staple dish in various Middle Eastern countries such as Lebanon and Palestine.

While hummus traditionally consists of chickpeas, tahini, which is a sesame paste, garlic and olive oil, it can be very versatile and essentially be made into whatever flavor you want.

Grocery stores like Target, Walmart, Ralphs and Smart & Final will usually carry popular flavors like roasted red pepper, garlic and classic.

If you are on a budget, this avocado hummus recipe requires basic ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Buying the rest of the ingredients will not break the bank, with the total cost coming in under $15.

The avocado hummus makes for the perfect snack to eat while studying or while watching your new guilty pleasure series on Netflix. It is also a vegan friendly snack and excellent for sharing and taking on the go. What’s great about making avocado hummus is that it only requires a few ingredients and can be made in about 5 to 10 minutes. This recipe will serve around 2-4 people and ingredients can easily be increased for a larger batch.

What you will need:

A food processor or blender

Measuring spoons

Spatula

A shallow bowl to plate

Ingredients:

1 (15 oz) can of chickpeas

2 ripe avocados

2 tbsp of olive oil

2 tbsp of tahini

1 lemon

2 cloves of garlic

Salt and pepper to taste

1/8 tsp cumin

Preparation:

Start off by draining the can of chickpeas and then rinsing them thoroughly.

Add the rinsed chickpeas, tahini, garlic

and lemon juice into the food processor or blender.

Blend for 30 seconds then grab a spatula and scrape the sides. Continue blending for another 30 seconds or until a silky smooth texture has been reached.

Add the 2 avocados, peeled and pits removed. Season to taste with salt, pepper and cumin. The ingredients should be blended

for 1 to 2 minutes to achieve a smooth texture.

Optional: Add 1 tbsp of jalapeno juice for a fiery kick or top with red pepper flakes.

Once combined, serve in a shallow bowl.

Enjoy with pretzels, pita chips, carrots, cucumber or celery. Anything goes!

Student artists shine with ethereal gallery

MELANIE NGUYEN

Asst. Editor

The Associated Students gears up to host its annual spring student art show, featuring student artwork centered around this semester’s theme: fairy tales.

The Student Art Show features 19 paintings and sculptures that will adorn the walls of the center gallery of the Titan Student Union, just past the Alumni Lounge. There will also be a digital gallery online, and the gallery will be open to students from April 4 to 26.

Jordan Piquette, a second-year animation student and an art gallery assistant at the TSU, said the purpose of the art gallery is to display artists’ works and to make the TSU more welcoming.

“It’s real fun to see the competition, to see people just create art just to create it. And it’s a really good thing to get people connected,” Piquette said.

The art gallery will also serve as a contest where the first-place winner will receive $250, the second-place winner will receive $150 and the third-place winner will receive $100.

Piquette said the art gallery usually receives fewer submissions in the spring semester than in the fall semester because there isn’t a theme in the fall. She said she appreciates the marketing team’s efforts to spread the word about the gallery, but she wishes they could have added the theme to their poster.

“To reach a further audience, it would be nice if we could advertise more in the art department, but there’s been a lot of construction going on over there, and a lot of artists are kind of scattered to the winds because of that,” Piquette said.

The art gallery has been accepting submissions since February, and artists had to submit their work online and then drop off their artwork at the gallery. This gallery features a variety of art pieces, from colorful paintings with whimsical characters to mystical drawings in black and white and intricate sculptures.

“We get to choose the theme, obviously, and I felt like fairy tales is a very flexible, very easy one to do, and I feel like a lot of artists can relate to fairy tales in some shape or form. So essentially, it’s fantasy, so it’s a pretty open prompt,” Piquette said.

Piquette also submitted her own piece called “Big and Bad?” which shows a figure falling into the open mouth of a wolf. Like many other students in the art department, she said it is di fficult for her to balance the artwork that they want to do versus the artwork that they have to do for classes.

“Even though it's run by students, it’s still a sense of feeling like this is super professional,” Piquette said. “I enjoy it because I feel like other artists, they really enjoy art shows and galleries and whatnot. It’s really fun to see them at the reception pointing behind the glass at their work.”

She said the TSU has rotating art exhibits in the central gallery that last for about a month, depending on

availability. She said they accept personal galleries and always try to have art displayed in the gallery.

Piquette arranged some of the art pieces before spring break in preparation of the grand opening on Tuesday

at 12 p.m. in the TSU. Piquette said the gallery and the opening reception are free to attend.

“It’s really fun to see other people’s work. I know personally, I enjoy seeing other people’s work, how

far they’ve come in comparison,” Piquette said. “I’ve noticed a couple artists have been submitting almost every art show so I can kind of see their styles are changing.”

Kick o National Arab American Heritage month with an easy-to-prepare avocado blend on hummus that perfectly pairs with any snack.

ROSE MENDEZ / DAILY

Jordan Piquette, an art gallery assistant, is helping Associated Students to transform this space into an enchanting exhibit.

MELANIE NGUYEN / DAILY TITAN

CSUF's elevators ranked: Best and worst of campus

BORLEN CHONG Editor

When heading to a class on an upper floor, you may ask yourself the age-old question: elevator or stairs? Stairs may not always be accessible or convenient, but some elevators on Cal State Fullerton’s campus will make you want to get those extra steps into your daily school schedule.

McCarthy Hall - 3/10 Too slow, too crowded

McCarthy Hall has two elevators, one on the west end and the other on the east. Yet, fitting into either elevator is a challenge. Even trying to get out of the elevators proves to be its own mission impossible. It’s slow and crowded.

Plus, the west elevator’s permit has expired.

Engineering - 4/10

Is this the “Walking Dead”?

These elevators give a creepy, apocalyptic hospital vibe. They’re plain, white and large, and can carry an echo through their walls, which would be commendable if it didn’t contribute to the eerie sensation.

Oh, and it smells like I'm waiting for my next dentist appointment.

Computer Science - 6/10 Cool buttons

Visit these elevators if you want to see cool buttons. As big, white circles that cover the panel with a unique, hourglass design, they break up all other elevator buttons' repetitive style.

Besides the buttons, these elevators are slow and tedious with their gray walls. At least it’s spacious across both elevators.

Education - 6/10 Why brown?

If you're familiar with the Backrooms lore, you might feel deja vu when stepping into this elevator. If not, just know it’s creepy. The brown walls are out of place and give the impression you’ve entered a different dimension.

It also has an odd perfume bathroom smell, which is definitely suspicious.

Humanities - 4.5/10 Don’t get caught alone

While offering quick trips up and down the building, these small elevators are crowded during rush hour. However, if you find yourself alone in one of these, you might notice the ominous sensation they give.

There is something going on with these elevators, and we aren’t supposed to see it.

Business and Economics - 9/10 It talks!

All elevators should implement this innovative feature that announces what floor you’ve arrived on. This is super helpful for individuals who are visually impaired or distracted by all the Canvas notifications on their phones.

Unfortunately, they lose one point for operating with an expired permit.

Clayes Performing Arts - 1/10 Avoid!

The one elevator on the classroom side of the CPAC building is big. However, it feels like a relic from the 1970s that has received limited updates. From the broken floor lights to the death snaps of what I pray aren’t wires as it goes up and down, it’s all terrifying.

Langsdorf - 5/10 Hidden secrets?

One of the elevators has a ninth-floor option that does nothing when pressed. A possible secret? Aside from that, it’s old and depressing. Someone needs to give this elevator a retirement plan and let them go already.

I’m giving bonus points for the possible Nancy Drew mystery on the ninth floor.

College Park - 6.5/10

Better not be in a rush

If you’re running late for class, you are royally screwed. These elevators frequently go past your floor before finally returning completely empty, and wait times can be absurdly long. They do get a plus for having clear and loud audio cues.

Dan Black Hall - 7/10

Surrealist horror ambiance

While this is the only elevator marked as bike friendly, there’s no denying the horror movie feeling. The inside of the elevator is adorned with an uncanny red, which screams “The Shining.”

The loud bell announcing you’ve made it to your floor also adds to the alarming atmosphere.

Pollak Library - 10/10

Must visit just for the elevators

From the oddly nostalgic 80s vibes of the south side elevators to the modernistic formality of the north side, these elevators are more than aesthetically impressive, giving the best and most distinct look across an entire campus of elevators.

There are few places that can provide a revolutionary elevator experience. I recommend these. And then, I’d recommend them again.

Visual Arts - 6/10 It’s big at least

It might be one of the biggest elevators on campus. But, by having plain walls and a boring ceiling, this elevator betrays the artistic ambitions of the students in this building.

I’d expect at least a bit more color or expression for a place full of creative individuals.

Gordon Hall - 7.5/10 “All’s Well that Ends Well,” I guess…

While it may have a sci-fi, “Space Odyssey” aesthetic, with chrome and black tones adorning the small space, it’s still uninteresting.

The space reads as though the “Romeo and Juliet” playwright was based in a far-away, futuristic world: tired and full of chrome.

Chelsea Arangcon contributed to this story.

SYDNEY CARROLL / DAILY TITAN

Shot: Freshman class makes a splash

CONTINUED FROM 1 captain. Coach Witt said she does a good job of juggling her many roles as a friend, teammate and captain.

for her performance on the team.

Solorzano went on to redshirt at LMU in 2022 under Witt. After one season, she took the opportunity to join the new program at CSUF with Witt.

“I wanted to follow him because he’s an amazing coach and I love being around him,” Solorzano said. Her leadership skills led her teammates to select her as the team

Zaretskiy said that Solorzano’s guidance as team captain has allowed her to grow as a player. Solorzano is always willing to get in the pool and help Zaretskiy work on her skills as a center.

“She's been a great captain so far. She's very hands-on and very motivating. She definitely leads by example,” said Titans Kieran Scout Bates.

Not only is Solorzano praised for her leadership as team captain, her teammates also appreciate her performance in the pool.

“Honestly, it's just a lot of fun to watch her play. She creates so many opportunities, that girl is so crafty, so cool to watch, you know, it's something that we can all learn from honestly. Even when we're all dead tired, she's sprinting up and down the pool, you know, and so that's really inspiring to be around,” Wilder said.

Titans defeat Hawai’i in extra innings, 12-11

the three games, the most runs they have scored in a series this season.

Solorzano speaks highly of her teammates as well.

“I love it. I love the environment. These girls are my sisters and I can't wait to play with them for the rest of my time here,” Solorzano said. Their ability to quickly build team chemistry was evident after winning their first game in program history despite only having played for three weeks prior. The Titans defeated UC Merced 24-3 at the UC Santa Barbara Winter Invite Tournament in January.

After a strong start, the team has an overall record of 11-15 and a conference record of 0-3.

“I'm super excited for the rest of the season. These girls and I have been super excited to play for Cal State Fullerton and are looking forward to the next few years that we’re here,” Solorzano said.

The women’s water polo team has three more matches to go in the 2023 season.

Softball drops game to UC Riverside, 3-0; win weekend series

GOTTIE CHAVEZ Editor

With the weekend series on the line, designated hitter Brendan Bobo had the game-tying run on first base after a back-and-forth battle led to a 10-10 tie heading into extras. In the bottom of the 10th, Bobo blasted a walk-off two-run home run over the right field wall against Hawai’i to secure the Titans’ third conference series win of the season.

The 12-11 victory earned the series win for Cal State Fullerton baseball after initially splitting the first two games, losing 14-10 on Saturday and winning 7-6 on Friday.

Bobo’s homerun was the finale of an already impressive weekend performance for the Titans’ offense. As a team, the Titans combined for 45 hits and 29 runs over

In addition to Bobo, the Titans had multiple hitters with stand-out performances.

Left fielder Carter White continues to add on to his already stellar season in which he is currently the Big West’s top hitter, batting .431 on the season and having an on base percentage of .512. Over the weekend, White’s consistency at the plate continued, hitting .462 while scoring five runs and batting in two RBIs.

Despite good hitting, the Titans still missed multiple opportunities to extend their lead. Over the three games, the Titans left an outstanding 32 runners on base.

With multiple chances to take the lead, right fielder Nate Nankil stepped up for his team, batting in a team-high six RBIs against the Rainbow Warriors, including hitting four RBIs in the Titans’ 12-11 Sunday win.

Nankil currently leads the Titans on the season with a team-high 24 RBIs which also places him seventh on the Big West standings.

An efficient offense was needed this weekend as the Titans’ pitching

staff struggled to contain a strong Rainbow Warriors lineup.

Despite the Titans winning the series, the Rainbow Warriors outscored the Titans 31-29.

The Titans relied on their deep pitching staff as they used 11 different pitchers against the Rainbow Warriors.

Titans pitcher Jojo Ingrassia stepped up for the Titans, earning both of the Titans’ wins as he entered the game in relief. Ingrassia pitched 4.2 innings in relief, striking out six batters and allowing one run over both his appearances.

With this conference win, the Titans now sit in third in the Big West standings with an overall record of 14-9 and a conference record of 7-2.

The Titans remain home this weekend to host UC Santa Barbara. First pitch is set for Thursday at 6 p.m.

GOTTIE CHAVEZ Editor

In their first road conference series this season, Cal State Fullerton softball won two games against UC Riverside Saturday before losing their third and final game on Sunday.

Both teams were led by their defense, particularly pitching, as the two teams’ offenses only combined for nine runs throughout three games.

Entering this series, CSUF’s pitching sta ff was ranked first in the Big West with a combined ERA of 1.86, which was in full display against the Highlanders.

Titans pitchers Myka Sutherlin and Haley Rainey were efficient in the Titans’ wins, earning at least nine strikeouts each as both pitched complete games.

Sutherlin made two appearances in the weekend series, starting the first game and entering the final game in relief. In her two appearances, Sutherlin pitched 11 innings, striking out 20 batters while only allowing two earned runs.

Sutherlin continues her dominant season where she currently leads the Big West in strikeouts with 132 and opposing batting average with .180. Following Sutherlin’s dominant performance in the series opener,

Rainey made sure the Titans did not lose a step, throwing a complete game shut-out in the Titans’ 1-0 win on Saturday.

Despite the lack of run support from her teammates, Rainey continued to coast through the Highlanders’ offense pitching seven innings, allowing no runs and striking out nine. Rainey currently leads the Big West conference in ERA with 1.19.

The Titans’ bats have continued to be the one area of the game where the Titans are lacking as they currently sit sixth in the Big West, compared to their pitching and fielding where they rank first in each category.

Over the weekend series, the Titans left a combined 18 runners on base including producing only two hits in Sunday's loss.

With the Titans’ offense struggling, Hannah Becerra stepped up for the team. Becerra’s batting average in this series was .571 including 2 RBIs and 2 runs scored.

Becerra helped provide run support when the Titans needed it the most, scoring the winning run in the Titans’ 3-2 extra inning win and producing the Titans’ only run in their 1-0 win after she hit in right fielder Anaiya Mitchell.

After the series win, the Titans now own an overall record of 19-15 and a conference record of 6-3.

The Titans will return home to host Cal State Nothridge Friday at 6 p.m.

Freshman Delaney Wilder is currently the Titans fourth best goal scorer with 27 goals on the season and 34.6% shot percentage. Wilder is also fourth on the team with 14 steals on the season. NAVTEJ HUNDAL / DAILY

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ARIES This week, the stars suggest you may be feeling a bit like a firecracker, ready to burst with excitement and energy. Embrace your spark and let it ignite your passions, but don't forget to take breaks to rest and recharge. Remember, even the brightest flames need a moment to cool down.

TAURUS It's time to shake things up a bit, Taurus! Try something new this week, whether it's a new hobby or just a new route to work. The universe is on your side, so take advantage of its energy and let it lead you to exciting and unexpected places.

GEMINI Communication is key this week, Gemini. Whether it's a heartfelt conversation with a loved one or a persuasive pitch at work, make sure to choose your words carefully and speak from the heart. Your eloquence and charm will help you get your message across and win over any skeptics.

CANCER This week, you may be feeling a bit like a hermit crab, retreating into your shell to avoid the hustle and bustle of the outside world. But don't be afraid to venture out and explore new horizons. You never know what treasures you might find if you just take a chance.

LEO Roar into this week with confidence, Leo! Your natural charisma and magnetism will attract all the right people and opportunities your way. Just remember to be humble and gracious in your victories, and the universe will continue to reward you.

VIRGO This week, it's all about balance, Virgo. Take some time to organize and declutter your life, but also make sure to indulge in some self-care and relaxation. Remember, a wellrested and balanced Virgo is a happy and productive Virgo.

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Muslim Student Association

The Muslim Student Association of Cal State Fullerton's main purpose is to educate the CSUF community about Islam, and represent it accurately. We also aim to be active and friendly with the CSUF community and establish relationships with various student organizations. The MSA stands for justice and peace by being vocal on major issues throughout the world. Our events consist of speaker events where islamic scholars would come and give a talk about Islam, and we have social events for members to bond with one another, and create a stronger community. MSA also proudly celebrates Islam Week on campus. Islam Week consists of calligraphy workshops, speaker events, a culture day, and an annual Eid Banquet. It is a week full of fun events to truly highlight the beauty of the religion, and shine light on different muslim countries around the world. For the club events, they usually take place on Wednesdays at 7pm, and everyone is more than welcome to join and learn!

1. Who is the founder of Microsoft?

a.) Bill Gates

b.) Steve Jobs

c.) Mark Zuckerberg

d.) Jeff Bezos

WRITTEN by Isabel Guerrero Lubarsky

LIBRA Let your creativity and imagination run wild this week, Libra. Whether it's through art, music, or writing, use your talents to express yourself and connect with others on a deeper level. You never know where your inspiration might take you.

SCORPIO This week, the stars suggest you may be feeling a bit mysterious and enigmatic, Scorpio. Embrace your inner detective and channel your intuition to solve any puzzles or mysteries that come your way. Your keen mind and sharp wit will help you uncover the truth.

SAGITTARIUS Adventure awaits, Sagittarius! Whether it's a spontaneous road trip or a new cultural experience, take advantage of the opportunities that come your way and embrace the unknown. Who knows what amazing discoveries and

experiences await you?

CAPRICORN This week, the stars suggest you may be feeling a bit like a mountain goat, scaling new heights and achieving new goals. Keep pushing yourself to reach new heights, but also remember to take breaks and enjoy the view. You've earned it.

AQUARIUS It's time to break free from the status quo, Aquarius. Embrace your individuality and think outside the box to find innovative solutions to old problems. Your unique perspective and creative ideas will inspire others to follow your lead.

PISCES This week, it's all about connecting with others, Pisces. Whether it's through a deep conversation with a loved one or a simple act of kindness to a stranger, let your empathy and compassion guide you. Your kindness and generosity will have a ripple effect that spreads far and wide.

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2. What is the smallest planet in our solar system?

a.) Venus

b.) Mars

c.) Pluto

d.) Mercury

Answers to the puzzle are located at the bottom of the page.

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