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NEWS
Ruby V. Muñiz
My name is Ruby Muniz, majoring in Political Science and Communication. It has been an honor to serve my student body since my Freshman year. Throughout my time at Fresno State, I have sat on multiple committees, and twice as a Senator. Growing up in the Central Valley I’ve seen what happens when you make an investment in education. I worked hard growing up, and if it wasn’t for people investing in me I wouldn’t be where I am today. Together we can eliminate burdens to help strengthen students' success. Individually we are all great, but together we are unstoppable.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18, 2020
Naila Estrada
My name is Naila Estrada and I am a 21-year-old Hispanic. I’m a huge nerd who loves school, but if I’m not there I’m either hanging out with family or friends. I love to play basketball and watch crime documentaries on my free time. I hope when the time comes that you vote for me, because I truly believe that I have your best interest at heart. I’m not doing this for the title, I’m doing this so I can empower and inspire you. You all deserve to have someone who can help you through your journey here at Fresno State!
Finance Nicholas L. Moore
My name is Nicholas Moore and I am running to be the next Vice President of Finance. During my time at Fresno State I’ve had the privilege of serving as the ASI Senator of Student Affairs and this along with my experience on the ASI Finance Committee make me the ideal candidate for this position. On the ASI Finance committee, I’ve worked alongside the current Vice President of Finance and have experienced what it takes to excel in that position. If elected I would be able to efficiently manage the ASI budget, the Finance Committee, and the ASI Financial Statements.
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Elizabeth Rocha Zuñiga
Bulldogs, I am Elizabeth Rocha Zuñiga, a first generation college student, a double major in Political Science and Chicano Studies and Presidential candidate. Currently, I serve as the VP of External Affairs, representative to the California State Student Association, president of Phi Alpha Delta, IGNITE and an active member of other organizations. Continuing advocacy for affordability, accessibility, inclusivity, involvement and awareness of campus amenities are my priorities. ASI provides a voice for those who are underserved and a platform to amplify all concerns. Fresno State is a space to reach our full potential and I am dedicated to work diligently that both provide you with the means necessary to succeed. I would be honored to serve you, thank you.
External Affairs Jose C. Aceves
Hey Bulldogs, my name is Jose-Carlos Aceves, I am a Political Science major, and this is my second year at Fresno State. I am a part of the Native American Student Association as well as a former member of the Barking Bulldogs debate team. I am running for Vice President of External Affairs which is extremely important for representing you in the CSU. The number one priority for me is taking on the issues that matter to you all on campus, head on. Don’t forget to vote through email March 24th! And please remember to stay safe, and check your emails!
Fidel Moreno-Meza
My name is Fidel Moreno-Meza, I am running to be your next Vice President of External Affairs. I am a third year and currently serve as the Senator of Athletics and Recreation. I am running because I would like to advocate for Fresno State Students at the local, state, and federal levels. I plan to work alongside you, the CSU system and campus administration to ensure that Fresno State is accessible and affordable for all students. I plan to work with all students regardless of status, interests, and points of view and serve as your voice.
NEWS
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18, 2020
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Graduation ceremonies canceled due to coronavirus By Larry Valenzuela & Zaeem Shaikh Fresno State has decided to officially cancel all graduation commencement ceremonies and encouraged students to move out of the dorms and return home effective Friday, March 20, due to concerns of coronavirus. According to a press release from the university, campus will not be conducting the commencement ceremonies in May. The campus will continue to explore how and when to celebrate commencement in 2020, depending on the quickly changing situation. Classes will remain online until the end of the semester. Prior to Tuesday’s announcement, classes had been projected to return to campus on April 27. The release states that the students are encouraged to return home except for those students who wish to remain in Student Housing and may need access to technology for receiving virtual instruction. The campus will continue to provide housing and meals for students who need to remain on campus through the end of spring semester, unless directed otherwise by the Fresno County Department of Public Health. Also effective Friday, campus offices that are not essential to direct student support will transition to working remotely. Virtual instruction will also begin on Friday. Agricultural operations will continue on the farm. On Monday, the Student Recreation Center’s only offices within the center will remain open at this time, and Vintage Days has been canceled based on guidance from public health officials. On March 16, Fresno State suspended in-person, on-campus classes effective Monday, March 16. Faculty were told to make final preparations for virtual delivery of instruction that had been face to face. Virtual instruction will begin on Friday, March 20. Some classes continued to meet in person between March 16 through the 19 if alternative instruction was not provided. This included laboratory, performing arts and kinesiology courses and campus farm activities. Students are asked to communicate directly with their professors or department chairs if they have specific questions or concerns related to projects, presentations, exams, coursework. With the exception of fully online courses, all deliverables (homework/in-class assignments) previously due during the closure will
Armando Carreno • The Collegian
Bulldog Zone without students as campus suspends in-person, on-campus classes as Fresno State begins to transfer online due to concerns of the coronavirus on Monday, March 16, 2020. be rescheduled by professors to be due after March 19. Online assignments due between March 1619 that are part of in-person classes will also be suspended and may be rescheduled. In a press conference held last Thursday President Dr. Joseph I. Castro said that accommodations associated with social distancing will be implemented in the courses that will continue to meet in the transition period. Castro said that nonacademic campus operations will continue as usual including student
may know, we actually lend devices to students in that program. We have some devices that we have not lent out for purposes of that program that we will consider using for students who need them, and we’ll do our very best to meet the needs if they have them.” Fresno State students have said they are not sure how they will transition to virtual instruction. Christine Yen, an accounting major at Fresno State, said she’s unsure how her professors
accounting-- we have to take 150 units not 120, so we had to stay extra [years].” Jacqueline Martinez is another student at Fresno State who has no computer and limited access to the internet at home. She said she lives an hour away from campus and took advantage of the library and computer labs around campus. With the campus closing, she can’t utilize those services anymore and she has to return her laptop from Fresno State by tomorrow-- her only wireless device other than her cell phone.
housing and dining, the student health and counseling center, the student cupboard which provides food for healthy students, financial aid, student housing and all nonacademic offices. “We will work with our faculty to ensure that we follow social distancing guidelines the best that we can within our laboratories, within our farm activities, some of the kinesiology courses and some of the performing arts courses.” With the transition to virtual instruction, Castro said they will work with students with no internet access and will provide technology where they can. “...Through our DiscoverE program as you
will adapt to virtual instruction in her upper-division accounting classes. “There are some [accounting] classes where such a large percentage of students fail because it’s so difficult they fail it in class,” Yen said. “When people already are failing this class because it’s so difficult from in-class, I think it’ll be even harder because some of them are online.” Yen also added she was frustrated on Tuesday of the possibility of the commencement ceremony being canceled. “I have been going to accounting school for seven years. We waited so long to graduate, and it kind of sucks that Grad Fest and [other events] are canceled,” Yen said. “Most people in
“[My computer from Fresno State] is really slow,” Martinez said. “I was trying to work on an assignment a couple of days ago, and it was really bad; it doesn’t even turn on [without a charger].” According to Martinez, she believes the campus isn’t ready for a big transition and she feels she’s being neglected. “I know that it’s the era of technology, but it’s kind’ve hard when you don’t have [the] accessibility of tools like everybody else,” Martinez said. “I’ve tried to talk to some professors about my struggles and living away from campus, and they couldn’t really give me a [clear answer].”
NEWS
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18, 2020
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Candidates debate major issues on campus
By Larry Valenzuela News Editor Coronavirus concerns, virtual classes and student fees were only some of the topics addressed in the Associated Students, Inc. (ASI) presidential debate on Tuesday, March 17. The presidential candidates on the panel were Naila Estrada and Elizabeth Rocha Zuniga. The third candidate, Ruby V. Muniz, chose not to attend due to illness. Muniz provided a statement that highlighted her platform of the four ways to improve campus through affordability, accessibility, community and safety. “We must increase accessibility to student programs such as our recreation center, student cupboard, health center and career center,” Muniz said. “As ASI president, I also hope to increase 24-hour library access in the weeks before finals. “ Due to coronavirus concerns, the debate was held at the University Student Union with no audience present but was put on Facebook Live to broadcast out to students. Each candidate was given a minute to answer questions from the moderators of the debate, Collegian Sports Editor Zaeem Shaikh and Reporter Rachel Lewis. After a three-minute introduction from both candidates, the first question asked pertained to their qualifications for position as president. Estrada answered the question by stating that even though she had not served in the ASI before, she would bring a lot to the table, specifically someone who has a voice to show students where to be represented. “If I don’t know the answer to something, I’m going to find someone that can answer a question you may have,” Estrada said. Zuniga answered the question by pointing out her years as a senator for ASI and her experience as vice president of external affairs. “I believe that being able to create a platform, and a space where students can feel represented and feel that they can come over to them [ASI representatives] and express how they are going through any situation,” Zuniga said. “That's what I have been doing throughout my tenure. It was creating a space for students who feel represented and feel comfortable to talk to their representative.” In another question, the candidates were asked what rules or changes need to be implemented in Greek life to create a safer campus? Zuniga said that she stands with survivors and will advocate for them. She acknowledged
that safety in Greek life could be improved by providing more programs and more education on how to handle certain situations. Estrada said that she believes having more ASI representation may help to bring the student body to speak up on these issues. When asked how they believed that the campus has handled the current coronavirus pandemic, Estrada said Fresno State President Dr. Joseph I. Castro and the CSU chancellor have worked hard to address the issue and taken several precautions in order for the students to be safe. Zuniga agreed that the campus did do a great job in addressing the issue but fell short when it came to speaking with students on the concerns of moving to online classes, particularly those that may not have internet access at home. “I do believe that students need to be more in the conversation and just being more mind-
ful that their students are facing different things currently with, like I said, not having internet access and accessibility to a laptop,” Zuniga said. The following question was then asked how the two candidates felt with the campus decision earlier that day to encourage students to leave the dorms. Zuniga, who lives in the dorms, said she understood the decision for safety reasons but was against being told that students would still have to pay rent on the dorm room. “I think that if we're going to need to provide another space for students, and some people do not have a place to go back home, maybe they don't feel comfortable going home,” Zuniga said Estrada's response stated that the decision to encourage students to leave was not a great idea but understands that it was done for student safety. The candidates received a follow-up ques-
tion about providing resources to students taking virtual classes who may not have internet access. Estrada said that the campus should focus on keeping the library and resources open for students to look into to help them. Zuniga said in her statement that the campus should work more in providing a program that shows students where they can get resources they may not be able to get a hold of on campus during this time. In her closing statement, Zuniga emphasized the importance of having a president with experience in ASI. “I think that it is important to elect the president to understand the system and can get things done,” Zuniga said. Estrada emphasized her stance to be a voice for the student body on campus. “I am here for you, and hopefully you guys will vote for me,” Estrada said.
Vendila Yang • The Collegian
Fresno State’s presidential candidates Elizabeth Rocha Zuñiga (left) and Naila Estrada (right) go live on social media for the ASI presidential debate at the University Student Union on March 17, 2020.
NEWS
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18, 2020
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Campus using grad fee for senior celebration By Tasha Turner Contributor Associated Students, Inc. (ASI) voted 8-7 on March 4 in favor of supporting the administration to split the surplus of graduation commencement funds evenly between Fresno State’s colleges. Last year, Fresno State’s commencement ceremony had a surplus of money that was gathered from the graduating seniors in their $51.50 graduation fee --an increase from the $35 two years ago. Seventy percent of the money students pay goes to commencement, 24 percent goes to the registrar, and the remaining 6 percent goes to the standard financial fee, Colin Stewart, associate dean of student involvement, said. “Due to the high number of graduates last year, the commencement ceremonies had a surplus of approximately $30,000,” Andrew Skidmore, ASI’s senator for clubs and organizations, said. All the money that had ever been a surplus has gone back into commencement, Stewart said. Although it is currently unknown if there will be a surplus this year, Stewart said student affairs is already planning to put the extra mon-
ey toward a senior celebration. “Many students wanted to celebrate graduation with their friends from other colleges,” Stewart said. “So, we thought of a way to gather all seniors together by using the surplus.” Seniors will receive an email to apply to be a part of a group of students in charge of organizing the senior celebration, Stewart said. Katie Taylor, a senior double majoring in speech pathology and French at Fresno State, and Samantha Vasquez, a senior majoring in psychology, said a senior celebration would be fun. “Free food and some sort of fun activity is always nice,” Taylor said. “And getting photos would be a plus.” Vasquez said having lunch together with the possibility of a raffle is a good idea. Although Taylor is not opposed to a senior celebration, she’d rather have the surplus of funds be spent on scholarships. “I wish the surplus would be used towards scholarships for students who have to go to grad school like me,” Taylor said. Jan Benson, who is working on getting her masters in rehabilitation counseling and mental health therapy, said she would not go to a senior celebration and is upset over the com-
The Collegian Archive
mencement surplus. “The fact that there is a surplus in the graduation commencement fund really ticks me off,” said Benson. “Why are we paying so much money to have it just sit there?” Vasquez said if there is always a surplus, seniors who graduate should just pay less. However, according to Skidmore, there are restrictions on how frequently a college can change student fees. “Costs are going up, so it’s likely that the
[graduation fee] will likely never go down,” Stewert said. Along with a senior celebration, Fresno State would be helping itself and other colleges save money by splitting the extra funds. “Splitting to funds would help cover the $4,600 cost of commencements each college gets charged,” Skidmore said. Colleges are each charged the same amount no matter the number of graduates, Skidmore said.
ments of operations and other relevant financial information.
of the president if the president is absent or disabled. He or she serves as the chair of the student senate and may vote on senate matters in the event of a tie. The executive vice president also appoints senators to designated senator at-large positions, which are approved by a simple majority vote by the senate.
Duties of the ASI executives and senators By Seth Casey Contributor
It is officially election season for positions in Fresno State’s Associated Students, Inc. (ASI), and The Collegian would like to help students understand for whom they’re voting. Positions up for grabs include: ASI president, vice president of finance, vice president of external affairs, senators for the eight academic colleges and 10 senators at-large. All officers will serve one-year terms from June 1 of the elected year through May 31 of the following year. All position duties are according to the ASI Bylaws. ASI President The president directs the organization’s activities and affairs and serves as the chief executive officer. The president represents ASI, along with the executive vice president, in all universitywide committees and will act as the “duly authorized representative” of the student senate when no
other member has been formally designated for that purpose. The president will also submit nominations to the student senate to fill vacant officer positions and establish committees with other executive officers when necessary, as well as performing any duties necessary in the best interest of ASI. Vice President of Finance The vice president of finance serves as the student government’s chief financial officer and oversees preparation of the annual budget. The vice president is tasked with keeping and maintaining accurate records of accounts of the properties and business transactions of ASI including, assets, liabilities, receipts, disbursements, gains, losses, capital and other financial matters. The vice president of finance also advises the president and student senate on fiscal affairs and reviews financial transactions. The vice president is also responsible for providing updates to the student senate on reserves, state-
Vice President of External Affairs The vice president of external affairs is the liaison between ASI and the campus, local, city and statewide communities, as well as building and maintaining relations with university alumni. The vice president also provides updates to the student senate on legislation, action, recognition and matters relevant to the external affairs of ASI. The vice president of external affairs is the corporation’s campus community, local, city and statewide liaison and oversees preparation of resolutions in regard to legislation, action or recognition affecting any body external to ASI. External affairs representatives shall also entail building and maintaining relationships with alumni. Executive Vice President The executive vice president fills all duties
Senators Each of the eight academic colleges will be represented by a senator. These senators will have a vote in ASI. One of the initial 10 at-large senator positions is selected as executive vice president. The others represent: undergraduate and graduate academic affairs; resident affairs; athletic and recreational affairs; parking and safety; students clubs and organizations; student affairs; Greek affairs; diversity, equity, inclusion and veteran and transfer affairs. The student senate may affirm or override any executive action by the president by a simple majority vote.
A&E
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18, 2020
Peach Blossom Festival complies with CDC By Savannah Moore Reporter
The Peach Blossom festival was canceled two days before it was supposed to occur. The festival was originally scheduled for Thursday, March 12, and Friday, March 13. The Peach Blossom Festival is a literary and poetry festival directed at elementary school kids that draws thousands of school children from across the Central Valley to the Fresno State campus each year According to the festival’s website, Fresno State's department of communications canceled the event in order to maintain a safe environment at our school amidst the Coronavirus pandemic, and are complying with the CDC's “evolving guidelines.” “The safety and well-being of our campus community is our highest priority, as is maintaining a safe environment for those who visit our campus,” said the festival’s website. A statement released by Dr. Kevin J. Macy-Ayotte, chair of the department of communication, said, “Given that many people are concerned about attending large gatherings right now, we felt it was prudent to cancel the event.” This statement also complies with guidelines set by the CSU Chancellor’s Office. According to the statement, events at this time are being evaluated by the school on a, “case by case basis.” Christina Wells, director of the festival, said nothing like this has happened in the festival's 62-year history, and because of the festival’s size, it will not be postponed or rescheduled for later this year. The festival is Fresno State’s longest running program and took a yearlong commitment and hard work of 35 students, alongside Wells and the other director, Elise Barba to put on. This year’s team of 35 was the largest team they’ve had, and Fresno State students were expected to run nearly every aspect of the festival. Wells said they start reserving spaces for the next festival the week after the previous one ends. Interviews of students who want to be a part of the team start in the fall semester. The festival often takes over two-thirds of Fresno State’s campus for the festival. “As you can imagine, for all of the people, the student staff working the event, the thirty five people working, myself and the other director, Elise Barba, our entire communication department, we’re devastated that this has had
to occur, but we understand why,” she said. The event is fully run by students, and this year “It’s kind of like being in a race, and then you get there, and you can’t cross the finish line,” said Barba. According to Wells, the cancelation of the Peach Blossom Festival is significant due to the size of the event. It is not exclusive to Fresno State. “[The fact that] it’s really impacted the general public is a big aspect of that.” Nearly 5,000 students from across the Valley have been practicing for months for the festival, which the goal of is to provide a service to the students in the Central Valley and give them the chance to experience our university, to see kids grow and have confidence. “It’s devastating we can’t continue the legacy this year,” Wells said. Planning for next year’s festival begins over the next few weeks. It’s possible that because of this year’s cancelation, the general public will show more interest in next year’s festival and be invested in knowing what happens, said Wells. As for the students who helped plan this year’s festival, she said, “I would imagine that those same students, if they have not graduated, would want to come back to ensure that next year goes off without a hitch. There’s a large investment that each student has with their time and energy, and into the festival.” However, a contingency plan for future festivals, if something like this year’s coronavirus cancelation were to occur again, would be difficult. Festival coordinators would have to reserve all of the rooms at the times they need on two separate dates, but for future festivals, an emergency backup plan is something that might have to be considered, said Wells. Next year’s festival is scheduled for Thursday, March 11 and Friday, March 12 of 2021.
62
BY THE NUMBERS
The number of years that the Peach Blossom Festival has taken place.
GOT TIPS? We want to hear them. COLLEGIAN@CSUFRESNO.EDU
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Local restaurants make changes due to the coronavirus By Anjanae Freitas | A&E Editor Fresno’s local restaurants will take a toll during this time of quarantine due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) while restaurants have banned people to dine-in. The City of Fresno declared a state of emergency to fight COVID-19 where restaurants and businessness have now been limited to take-out and delivery services. Mayor Lee Brand has prohibited events or meetings of 50 or more to close, and enforced that bars and restaurants reduce their occupancy accordably on Monday, March 16.
Fresno Police and Code Enforcement will closely monitor this situation in order for all restaurants to remain open. Restaurants that do not abide by this, will be punishable by fine or possibly imprisonment. This has gone into effect by companies reducing prices, offering discounted delivery, and ensuring to maintain a safe and healthy environment for their customers. Local restaurants in Fresno have made changes to ensure they can remain open for their customers. This includes the following:
Pokiland Fresno/Clovis
Will offer no sales taxes on all Pokibowl orders and Pokibowls will be reduced by $1. Loyalty points for customers will also be rewarded to ALL online purchases through their Pokiland App. The App can be downloaded in the App Store and Google Play. Their company has also released a statement via Instagram implementing deeper hourly cleaning and excellent hygiene to protect their customers food and safety. For further information, visit their Instagram @eatpokiland.
The Yellow Mug Coffee Shop/The Mug
Will currently remain open for their normal business hours for as long as they can remain open. According to their Instagram, they stated that they may have to close their business down in the next few weeks to due to the hit this has taken on their company. They are asking the community to donate to their GoFundMe -- www.gofundme.com/save-the-mug.
El Cochinito Contento
Has taken precautions by deep cleaning and constantly sanitizing all areas during this time. They will currently remain open for their normal business hours but only accept take-out orders that can order via phone, (559) 486-2833, and their delivery platforms.
Boba Silog
Will follow social distancing by offering food through their delivery platforms. If your order is $30 dollars or more, they will deliver to you. You must call your order in and be within a five-mile radius. Transactions can be made through cash, check, and Venmo.
The Collect Coffee Bar
On 3/19 to help with social distancing, they will be offering cold growlers made with beans from Fulton Street Coffee and Hi -Top Coffee. Starting at $30 a growler, customers can get an eight days worth of prepaid cold brew this allows customers to support local and stay in quarantine. To place orders, you can contact them on Instagram @collectcoffeebar
Quesadilla Gorilla
Has updated their app to help customers order ahead for big groups wanting food. They have discontinued use of unwrapped disposable utensils with prepackaged ones along with serving drinks in single use cups and providing Togo boxes behind counters per request for box.
Ampersand Ice Cream
Will be taking orders through takeout and offering curbside only. They ask customers to please call ahead in orders, if not they must leave the shop right after receiving their order. They will now close at 9 p.m. rather than 11 p.m.
A&E
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18, 2020
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Detroit '67 to start conversations and change on Black culture By Alex Yanez Contributor “Detroit ‘67” is a play written by Dominique Morisseau, a playwright and actress. It depicts a struggling black family trying to make ends meet by starting a family business. An abandoned young woman is brought in by the family, causing tension among the family while the Detroit riots are ongoing. The play is being directed by Thomas-Whit Ellis, a professor in the theatre arts program. His focus in teaching is African American theatre and directing. “This play was chosen because of its musical forms, which sheds light on the ‘Motown Sound,’” said Ellis. “A massive R&B brand that engendered interest from blacks and whites as well as shaping the careers of musicians and singers to this day.” “Its essential narratives, its examination of the human condition by way of black culture, norms or history,” said Ellis. “Its value as a learning tool, its blending casting possibilities and its potential appear to local audiences.” Ellis said that racial tensions and divisiveness are at a new high, and he feels that a play like “Detroit ‘67” can help bridge that gap. “Most of this tension is based on a fundamental lack of understanding of other cultures, races, and traditions,” said Ellis. “People tend to dislike, reject, or discount what they don’t understand.” Deseree Whitt plays one of the lead roles in the show, named Bunny. “Bunny is a very energetic, very sexy, flirta-
Alex Yanez • The Collegian
A "Detroit '67" poster displayed inside the Speech Arts building outside of the John Wright Theatre. tious, friendly character. She doesn’t let anything get her down,” said Whitt. “So she tries to see the world in color; rather than black and white. She’s really fun.” Whitt expected the audience to learn what life was at the time in 1967 and how they should use that to reflect on their own personalities and actions. “The young Fresno State student might not know about the history of the race riots of 1967,” said Whitt. “So, it kind of opens a door for them to like research it further.” She feels that this could be a good way to
start a conversation and enact change for those who come and watch the play. Arium Andrews also plays a lead role in the show. She plays Michelle, also known as Chelle in the play. “My character is a very strong woman. Nothing really impresses her, I would say,” said Andrews. “She’s older so she is more wise and very selective of the decisions she chooses to make.” Chelle is the caretaker of the family, as her mother and father had passed away. She is the foundation that keeps the family together.
“I want people to really grasp an understanding that it did take place during the race riots in 1967 in Detroit,” said Andrews. “Hopefully a lot of people who come to see it would relate to it if they were involved in that time.” Both Whitt and Andrews researched the events of 1967 to prepare themselves for their roles. “Seeing the race riots from this family’s perspective is a little bit eye-opening just because they’re people not trying to cause any harm,” said Whitt. “Trying to live a better life and trying to better themselves.” For Andrews, she said she's using her mother’s and father’s experiences with prejudice during their lives. Andrews also viewed interviews from people who lived through that time on YouTube as a way to prepare herself for the role. “I believe that our black culture needs to come together more and be closer. That way our voices can be heard, but not just only black people,” said Andrews. “I think other people in other race groups can also get involved and help.” “I think it all comes from our black culture, sticking together and learning to be strong as ourselves because if we’re not being strong in our race group. We are not setting an example to other races out there because they are not taking us seriously.” According to Fresno State Arts and Humanies, Detriot '67 both events on March 21 and March 22, have been canceled due to the Coronavirus. Tickets purchased online will be automatically refunded.
Arts and Entertainment events canceled: •
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Detroit ‘67, 7:30 p.m., scheduled for March 20 and 21, 2 p.m., March 22, and 7:30 p.m., March 24-28. Tickets purchased online will be automatically refunded. Tickets purchased can call the department of theatre and dance at 559-278-3987 for a refund. A Sudden Making/Reading, scheduled for 3:30 p.m., Monday, March 23. Learn Portuguese through Brazilian Dance, scheduled for 7 p.m., Monday, March 23. Young Writers’ Conference with Naomi Shihab Nye, scheduled for 9 a.m. March 25 at Satellite Student Union, for refunds, contact tanichols@
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mail.fresnostate.edu or 559-278-1569. Big Bands at Fresno State, scheduled for 8 p.m., Wednesday, March 25. Tickets purchased online will be automatically refunded. Those who purchased tickets in-person should call the music department at 559-2782654 for a refund. Voicing Ideas, scheduled for 2 p.m., Thursday, March 26. World Cultures Celebration, scheduled for 5:30 p.m., Thursday, March 26. Interior Design Student Show, scheduled for 5 p.m., Friday, March 27. CineCulture screening of Anbessa,
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scheduled for 5:30 p.m., Friday, March 27. The Peach Blossom Festival at Fresno State has been canceled. The MCJ Film Screening Festival has been canceled. FresYes Fest has been postponed until Fall 2020. The Lynyrd Skynyrd concert originally scheduled for Friday, March 13, 2020, has been rescheduled to Friday, Aug. 14, 2020. The Jojo Siwa concert originally scheduled for Tuesday, March 24, 2020, has been rescheduled to Saturday, June 13, 2020.
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The Sierra Cup Classic originally scheduled for Saturday, March 14, 2020, but has been cancelled. Brantley Gilbert, originally scheduled for Friday, March 27, 2020, has been postponed. Baby Shark Live!, scheduled at the Save Mart Center on April 3, has been postponed at the recommendation of public health officials. Tickets purchased for the April 3 show will be honored on the new date. Nick Cannon’s Wild ‘N Out Tour, scheduled at the Save Mart Center on April 5, has been postponed till further notice.
OPINION
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18, 2020
At 11:27 a.m. on March 17, 2020, the Fresno State University Communications sent out a campuswide email stating that in order to minimize the spread of COVID-19 the campus would be closing effective March 18 to students and all non-essential campus offices on March 20. The announcement essentially means that The Collegian will no longer be able to produce a weekly issue for the rest of the semester and will only be able to produce online-only content. But more importantly this announcement put into question whether the staff that I currently oversee was going to have a job after spring break. This is an issue that many students who work on campus will be facing. The email states that all student assistants will not be required to work on campus, but will be paid the hours they would have otherwise worked through April 5. It is a godsend that student assistants will be paid through April 5, but what’s next? What happens after April 5? How will students be able to survive without a source of income they rely on? I feel for those students who are dependent on those sources of income. I am one of them. My staff is made up of them. Fortunately, all of my staff will get paid through the remainder of the semester. Unfortunately, there are still students out there who face financial uncertainty, and I would hope that the on-campus employers who have the funds to help their workers decide to, even if that means their budget takes a huge hit. The university also was in the middle of transitioning to virtual instruction before the announcement. I do not have faith in the future due to the unpreparedness of everyone involved in the transition. And now, we will be online for the entire semester not just until the end of April. Many concerns have been raised including: What will happen to students who do not have the internet or the technology to transition to virtual instruction? What will happen to the students who now have to homeschool their children, while also having to attend virtual classes? How can anyone focus on school with what is currently going on in the world?
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I believe that the university has done the best of its ability to help the student body, but I do not think it has done enough and is capable of doing enough because I don’t think they know what to do. No one does. This is all uncharted territory and I don’t know what can be done to make all class transitions happen smoothly, but the reality is there are classes out there that do not transition to virtual instruction. Some students themselves will have trouble transitioning to virtual learning. Now our grades will be dependent on whether or not your professor knows how to use Zoom or can reconstruct a syllabus. The same syllabi that many of the professors have been using for years. Many of them can say they can transition, but I don’t believe them. The university says the professors can transition, but I don’t believe it. And I don’t think that we as students have created enough of an uproar and push back on how this whole situation has been handled. At this point you have to start thinking about what is best for yourself and let your voice be heard. This all comes days after almost all sports nationwide have been suspended, many major metropolitan areas have become ghost towns and people in our society have fearfully purchased in preparation of cataclysm events, leaving store shelves barren. I am halfway through my third month as editor-in-chief of The Collegian, and I never thought that everything that is currently happening in our world was possible. The last week and a half have felt like a lifetime and I am not sure how long it will last. To be honest, I don’t know what’s next? What I do know is that my staff has cleaned out their desks, for the seniors this will be their last issue, and we don’t know how long any of this will last. But, as we work remotely from home and transition to online-only content, myself and The Collegian will continue to inform the student body to the best of our abilities until this subsides.
WHAT'S NEXT? Campus is closed.
All classes have transitioned virtually. Students in dorms encouraged to leave. Where do we go from here? By Anthony De Leon Editor-in-Chief
Armando Carreno • The Collegian
The Henry Madden Library, nearly empty due to the temporary cancelation of in-person classes on Monday, March 16, 2020.
OPINION
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18, 2020
PAGE 9
CAPITALISM KILLS
Courtesy Tribune News Service
Americans need universal healthcare in times of crisis By Sam Domingo | Managing Editor Why are we as a country focusing more on profit instead of the wellness of our citizens? Capitalism is why. Many Americans forgo seeking health care because they're worried about the costs associated with it. Imagine ignoring your deteriorating health, possibly suffering, and putting off seeking care for it, all because you're afraid of the financial debt that inevitably comes along with it. With the recent coronavirus pandemic, it makes me wonder: Why isn't basic universal healthcare a thing yet? Let's consider how the U.S is handling coronavirus (COVID-19) testing compared to other
The Collegian is a student-run publication that serves the Fresno State community. Views expressed in The Collegian do not necessarily reflect the views of the staff or university.
countries across the globe. Although Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) testing for coronavirus is free, a hospital trip and other procedures to rule out coronavirus can still break the bank. The cost of an ambulance trip, a stay in the emergency room, x-rays, and other virus and flu testing could rack up a bill of thousands of dollars for the uninsured person. Even if they were insured, out-of-pocket costs are still a hefty dent. In Italy, the current national health service, Servizio Sanitario Nazionale, provides free universal care to patients. Yes, Italy is in chaos because of coronavirus, but at least its residents
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don't have to worry about the cost deterring their decision to seek treatment. The same goes for South Korea, who has been testing over 20,000 people a day for coronavirus --there are 7,700 confirmed cases, and over 210,000 people have been tested. The South Korean healthcare system is free to all citizens. The system is funded by a compulsory National Health Insurance system that covers 97 percent of the population. Comparatively, the ratio of tests administered to confirmed cases is much lower in the U.S. The CDC has confirmed a total of 1,300 cases of COVID-19 in the U.S., and at least 11,079 specimens tested since January --how-
Anthony De Leon Samantha Domingo Larry Valenzuela Anjanae Freitas Zaeem Shaikh Armando Carreno Marc Anthony Lopez Leticia Leal Rachel Lewis Jennifer Reyes Avery Johnston
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ever, the number of people tested is likely lower as patients are required to provide multiple specimens for testing. Over 27 million Americans are without health insurance. A person who displays symptoms yet avoids a visit to the hospital for financial reasons has the potential to amplify the spread of the virus. We should be focusing on flattening the curve, not ignoring our health and well-being. We shouldn’t deny people the right to live and seek medical treatment, just because they can’t afford it. We need universal healthcare. We need it now.
Savannah Moore Vendila Yang Diane O'Canto Jacob Mulick Jeff Vinogradoff Jorge Rodriguez Richard Marshall Kevin Fries Jan Edwards Timothy Drachlis Betsy Hays
The Collegian carries four different ethnic supplements inserted several times throughout each semester into its print publication. Each supplement is produced by its own staff and advisers and is separate from The Collegian. The news stories or opinions in the supplements do not reflect those of The Collegian.
Each member of the campus community is permitted a copy of The Collegian. Subscriptions are available for $25, on a semester basis. Staff positions at The Collegian are open to students of all majors. All content Copyright © 2020 The Collegian. Letters to the Editor (collegian@csufresno.edu): All letters submitted to The Collegian should be between 250-500 words in length, must be type-written, and must be accompanied by a full name and phone number to verify content. The Collegian reserves the right to edit all material for length, content, spelling and grammar, as well as the right to refuse publication of any material submitted. All material submitted to The Collegian becomes property of The Collegian.
SPORTS
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18, 2020
PAGE 10
The week the collegiate world stopped Courtesy Tribune News Service
COVID-19 has put an unprecedented standstill on everything, including sports. Here is a timeline of how this has affected Fresno State Athletics.
March 12, 12:50 p.m.
Fresno State Athletics announced in a statement on Thursday, March 12, that all spring competitions will be suspended indefinitely due to the coronavirus outbreak.
March 12, 4:07 p.m.
Cour
The NCAA announces Thursday a that all 2020 winter and spring champ are canceled due to concern over th
virus. The tournament was set to take U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis o 18. Heavyweight Josh Hokit, 141-po Lloren, 157-pounder Jacob Wright 14 er Greg Gaxiola, 133-pounder Lawren were set to compete at the champions
March 11, 1:31 p.m. The NCAA made the decision to conduct its upcoming championship events with only essential staff and limited family attendance.
March 12, 3:43 p.m.
March 12, 11:01 p.m.
The Mountain West (MW) Board of Directors said in a statement that it made the decision to suspend all spring sports competitions indefinitely due to concerns surrounding the coronavirus.
The Mountain Pacific Sports Federation cancels all remaining winter competitions and suspends all spring sports competitions indefinitely, including conference, nonconference and championships competition. Fresno State lacrosse was eight games into its season and its game against the Yale Bulldogs on March 12 was the final game played of the spring semester for all of Fresno State sports.
Above: Fresno State Lacrosse
Armando Carreno • The Collegian
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18, 2020 March 13, 9:35 a.m.
PAGE 11
Armando Carreno • The Collegian
SPORTS
The Golden Coast Conference is currently in suspended status. This weekend’s games have been canceled and the next set of conference games is scheduled for March 27. At the time of the suspension, Fresno State water polo was 8-7 and ranked No. 10 in the nation. The GCC Championship was set for April 24-26. Below: Sienna Jagielski
rtesy Tribune News Service
e place at on March ounder DJ 49-poundnce Saenz ships.
Courtesy Fresno State Athletics
afternoon pionships he corona-
March 13, 4:11 p.m.
Above: Josh Hokit
The Big 12 Conference announces that it will be suspending all organized team activities whether organized or voluntary, including team and individual practices, meetings and other organized gatherings until March 29. In addition, all conference and non-conference competitions are cancelled through the end of the academic year, including spring sports that compete beyond the academic year. Both Fresno State wrestling and equestrian compete in the Big 12 Conference.
March 13, 11:30 a.m.
March 12, 5:01 p.m.
The Mountain West Board of Directors officially cancels spring sports competitions and MW Championships. Fresno State women’s and men’s golf, women’s basketball, swimming and diving, baseball, track and field, softball and women’s and men’s tennis were all affected by the cancelation.
The NCAA has granted eligibility relief to all Division I student athletes who have participated in spring sports. Details of eligibility relief will be finalized at a later time.
March 14, 4:43 p.m.
Fresno State Athletics announces that it will be suspending all organized football related activities through March 29, which has since been updated to April 13 to coincide with all Fresno State sports. The suspension includes Pro Day, spring practices and recruiting.
By Anthony De Leon & Zaeem Shaikh Photo Illustration • Marc Anthony Lopez
SPORTS
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18, 2020
PAGE 12
Former Fresno State athletics director dies at 54 By Zaeem Shaikh Sports Editor
Jim Bartko, former Fresno State athletics director, died Monday in Eugene, Oregon, during surgery at a hospital, according to The Oregonian. Bartko was 54. He collapsed during a workout in Eugene, according to reports. Bartko served as the Fresno State athletics director from 2015 to 2017. During his tenure, Bartko hired former Fresno State football coach Jeff Tedford, brought back the wrestling program and added women's water polo. Bartko resigned in 2017 and then filed a wrongful termination suit in June 2018. He sought $3 million in damages on the basis of defamation, intentional and negligent infliction of emotional distress and breach of contract. The university issued a statement that read, “The university has reached a mutual settlement with Mr. Bartko. No further comment will be provided.” Bartko left Fresno State and returned to the University of Oregon as a senior ambassador in
alumni relations in 2018. He worked at Oregon from 1989 to 2007 and eventually served as the senior associate athletic director from 2008 to 2014. Bartko released a book on Feb. 24 entitled “Boy in the Mirror” with co-writer Bob Welch that talks about being a survivor of childhood sexual abuse. On the book’s website, there’s a statement that further delves on the book’s meaning. “‘Boy in the Mirror’ is a rare, heartfelt, timely memoir that breaks new ground on a subject that’s shaming such stalwart institutes as the Roman Catholic Church and the Boy Scouts of America.” With the launch of the book, Bartko created a scholarship at the University of Oregon College of Education — the Jimmy Bartko Scholarship Fund. The fund is dedicated to students at the college of education who choose to go into fields such as counseling psychology, couples and family therapy and family and human services, according to the website. Bartko is survived by his son, A.J., and his daughter, Danielle, according to The Eugene Register-Guard.
Khone Saysamongdy • The Collegian
Fresno State Athletic Director Jim Bartko in his office at the Duncan Building on Jan. 26, 2017. Bartko was the athletics director at Fresno State for three years.
Fresno State star basketball player arrested on Monday By Zaeem Shaikh Sports Editor
Former Fresno State men’s basketball star forward Nate Paul Grimes was arrested Monday. Police charged him with corporal injury to spouse/cohabitant, a felony, according to the Fresno County sheriff’s office. Grimes, 23, was arrested at 12:15 p.m. on Monday, March 16 by the Fresno Police Department.
Armando Carreno • The Collegian
Fresno State men's basketball player Nate Grimes during a game at Save Mart Center.
Bail was set at $25,000. Grimes was released hours later. On his Instagram story, Grimes posted a statement around 3 p.m. with a photo of a door with bars. “This is what happens when you mess with girls who would lie on ya name! Athletes watch out for these scandalous ass females! They don’t really care for you they just want the bag after college smh.” A Fresno State Athletics public information officer says they are aware of the arrest made. Through his five-year career as a Fresno State Bulldog, Grimes averaged 8.3 ppg and 7.4 rpg. In his final year, Grimes averaged 11.5 ppg and 10.2 rpg. He finished his season in the first round of the MW tournament against Air Force. He was an All-Mountain West third team (2018-19) and voted by coaches as the All-MW honorable mention (2018-19). Grimes ranks fourth in Mountain West history in rebounds with 731 and is currently fifth in rebounds in Fresno State. Grimes is majoring in Africana Studies at Fresno State. He is from Las Vegas and was born on May 1, 1996.
Armando Carreno • The Collegian
Nate Grimes(32) shoots a field goal over Wyoming defenders at the Save Mart Center on Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. Grimes grabbed 731 rebounds in his career, making him fourth in Mountain West history.